Neighbors of Heber Valley - April 2025

Neighbors of

Heber Valley

Meet theSalmonFamily

JOURNEY

COVER PHOTO BY DANA KLEIN

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EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS

REROOFING EXPERT

S and S Roofing

Emergency Repairs & Free Estimates

Utah’s #1 Roofing Company 435-658-4344

INTERIOR DESIGN EXPERTS

Franky & Tam

Studio Interiors & Co. franky@studiointeriorsutah.com tam@studiointeriorsutah.com 435-214-6951

HOME FIXTURES EXPERT

Tim White Mountainland Supply 2875 US 40 Daniel, UT 84032 tim.white@mc.supply | 801-224-6050

PLUMBING EXPERT

Jonathan Cheever Team Cheever Plumbing & Heating www.teamcheever.net (435) 252 7697

PET BOARDING AND DAY CARE EXPERTS

Coombs Kennels 1685 S Mill Rd Heber City UT 84032 coombskennels.com | 435-657-2577 coombskennels@gmail.com

ANIMAL WELLBEING EXPERTS

Stephen Jones, MVB, MS, DECVS 5373 UT-224, Park City, UT 84098 barkcityvet.com | 435.200.2160 info@barkcityvet.com

Molly Uhlig

Pete’s Adventure Pack petesadventurepack.com petesadventurepack@gmail.com 404-550-5633

TRANSPORTATION EXPERTS

Kyle Moody Moody Blu 435-225-1614 moodybluexpress.com moodyblu2019@gmail.com

AUTOMOTIVE & MAINTENANCE REPAIR EXPERT

L & L Repair

1310 S Daniels Rd., Heber City, 84032 435-657-0715

MIXOLOGIST AND BARTENDING EXPERT

Tom Brazill Elevate Event Bartending | 801-477-4452 tom@elevateeventbartending.com elevateeventbartending.com

LIGHT CELL THERAPY EXPERT

Dr. David Tate

Valhalla Cell Therapies

321 W. 1300 S., Suite 120 ,Heber City, 84032 | 435-244-2919 www.valhallaplus.org

REAL ESTATE EXPERT

Andy Emory

Summit Sotheby’s International Realty 362 N Main Street | Heber, UT 84032 www.andyemory.com | 435-800-3030 andy.emory@sothebysrealty.com

INSURANCE EXPERT

The Insurance Center 906 S. Main St., Heber City 84032 InsuranceCenterUtah@gmail.com 435-654-0353 InsuranceCenterUT.com

435-800-6969 info@wowclinic.com wowclinic.com

MASSAGE AND WELLNESS EXPERT

Crystal Joy, Mountain Elite Massage 32 South Main Street, Olde Town Square Building, Heber City, 84032 mountainelitemassage.com 435-315-3573

COUNSELING EXPERT

Meadowbrook Counseling

150 North Main Street Suite 201 Heber, UT 84032

Therapy for individuals, couples and families.

office@meadowbrookcounseling.com 801-655-5450

COLOR AND STYLE EXPERT

CONTRIBUTOR

Julie Hickam House of Colour

office@meadowbrookcounseling.com www.meadowbrookcounseling.com

Julie.Hickam@houseofcolour.com 435.315.2258

| 435-200-5778 info@eathyerin.com

Friedman Stoke Coach stokecoach.com rachel@stokecoach.com

BETSY DEMANN

Publisher bdemann@bestversionmedia.com

JACQUIE SYMES

Content Coordinator jacquie@bestversionmedia.com

MITCHELL OLSEN

Publisher molsen@bestversionmedia.com

JARED DEMANN

Account Executive jdemann@bestversionmedia.com

EMILY REZIN Designer

Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2025 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

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Meet theTeam!

Martiza Roño Refuerzo

Maritza Roño’s ancestors hail from Madrid, Bilbao, Xiamen, and the western coast of the island of Luzon in the Philippines. She’s a Cal Berkeley grad (go Bears!), with an MFA in English and creative writing. Maritza’s debut novel, Groovy Girl, was the recipient of the 2022 National Indie Excellence Award for AAPI fiction, and she recently had the opportunity to address 300 English Language Arts educators at their annual convention in California, whose theme was “Uncovering Hidden Gems: Exploring Perspectives and Voice,” which Maritza is proud to say is her “pièce de résistance” when it comes to writing, as well as editing, which she did for almost 10 years for various tech-media companies in San Francisco.

Maritza’s two boys, Marco and Emilio, are 15 1/2 and 12, respectively. Known as the kids who “do so much sh**,” they swim, ski-race, speed-skate, figure-skate, soccer-play, drum, and guitar, and both of these dudes happen to have a 1st Dan Black Belt in Taekwondo. They’re also “screenagers,” much to Maritza’s disgruntlement, but doing so much sh** has atoned for their addiction big-time.

Maritza runs Lectura Lounge, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Park City with her cofounder, a.k.a. Marco and Emilio’s dad. Her favorite family member is Oski her big mini-goldendoodle, whose teddy-bear face brings a smile to her face every day.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

KIRSTEN KOHLWEY

MICHELLE DEININGER

PHOEBE ZANIELLO

TIFFANY WICKES

RICHARD ELLIS

SANDY GELDHOF

NATALIE TAYLOR

ISABELLA VENEGAS IZZY CRANDALL

MARITZA ROÑO REFUERZO

ERIC RAMIREZ

AIMEE L. COOK

OWEN CRANDALL

DEB DEKOFF

DANA KLEIN

KRISTEN PIERCE

LEXIE LARSON

SARAH SEVERSON

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Jackie Adragna Brings Passion for Hospitality to Stein Eriksen

BY AIMEE L. COOK

PHOTOS BY DEB DEKOFF

When it comes to hospitality, Jackie Adragna embodies everything that makes the industry thrive. With an impressive three-decade career in hospitality and 20 years dedicated to human resources, Jackie brings a wealth of experience, energy, and heart to her vice president of human resources role at Stein Eriksen Lodge in Deer Valley.

Jackie’s approach to work is grounded in connection—a natural extension of her love for people. “I originally got involved in hospitality because I really enjoy connecting to people,” Jackie explains. “But more importantly, helping them reach their potential. It is defined differently for everyone.”

At Stein Eriksen Lodge, where luxury meets the charm of Deer Valley, doing things the “Stein Way” is ingrained in their DNA. One Stein Way principle is exhibiting positive energy and image. Jackie has played a critical role in fostering this ethos among the staff, ensuring every team member feels valued, motivated, and inspired. From fun incentives like Stein Bucks and raffles, to tickets and local sports teams, and to discounts on spa and brunch services, Jackie finds creative ways to ensure that her team is as pampered as the guests they serve. Jackie states, “Hospitality can’t be taught; you either have it, or you don’t.”

LEADING THE WAY

In an industry where trends rapidly evolve, Jackie sets herself apart by staying ahead of the curve. Her innovative leadership style mixes traditional hospitality values with modern employee engagement techniques. By putting her team first, with the financial support of Stein Eriksen’s owner and board members, and focusing on empowerment, she’s carved out an environment where staff thrives, and ninety-five percent of the staff return each year.

Stein Eriksen Lodge extends its commitment to employee well-being by providing housing accommodations for 220 people annually across various locations in Park City. This generous initiative ensures that employees have access to affordable and convenient living arrangements,

“Hospitality can’t be taught; you either have it, or you don’t.”

allowing them to focus on delivering exceptional service.

“We ask our employees what they need; some people are single, and some have families,” Jackie says. “That spans everything from medical insurance to retirement planning. We take all that into account, focusing on where everyone is in their career and in their life.”

Jackie believes the future of hospitality lies in community—not just among guests but within the workplace itself. Whether it’s through teambuilding activities or thoughtful incentives, Jackie’s dedication to her team is evident in every detail.

“There is not a day I wake up and don’t want to go to work,” Jackie says. “I really enjoy what I do. You can’t be in hospitality if you really don’t like people.”

Jackie is intent on creating a work environment for people that the staff wants to be part of, which translates to a superior experience for every guest at Stein Eriksen Lodge. The beautiful surroundings of Deer Valley may draw visitors in, but the warmth of the people, under leaders like Jackie, keeps them coming back.

“Everyone up here [in Park City] is working on the same team; whether you are in hospitality or not, people say hello to each other at the grocery store; it is a fabulous feeling,” Jackie says. “We rely on tourism up here, but I am not competing with anyone. We are all just on the same team.”

Although she’s a powerhouse in the workplace, Jackie knows how to slow down and enjoy the beauty of Deer Valley. Outside her HR responsibilities, you can find her skiing the stunning slopes during the winter or hitting Deer Valley’s pristine hiking trails in the warmer months. She also enjoys reading and unwinding with yoga.

For Jackie, the balance she finds in her hobbies reflects the values she brings into her professional life—an ongoing appreciation for growth, wellness, and the joy of connecting with others in meaningful ways.

The Black Manhattan was created in San Francisco in the early 2000s as a twist on the Classic Manhattan. In this incredible cocktail, we replace the Sweet Vermouth with an Amaro.

Amaro is an Italian aperitif that adds a variety of depth and a plethora of other flavors. Using Amaro results in a cocktail that is not as sweet, much more complex, with sensational herbal notes and a slightly bitter aftertaste.

The original recipe calls for Averna, but feel free to experiment with other Amaros like Nonino, or Montenegro. Each comes with a different flavor profile, and each will offer unique herbal flavors to tickle your taste buds.

Amaro has really taken off in recent years here in the US, with many distilleries offering their versions. They are tasty on their own, but using them in this spectacular cocktail is the best use, in my opinion.

Prep time 5 minutes

INGREDIENTS*:

• 2 oz of Rye Whiskey

• 1 oz of Amaro

• 2 Dashes of Angostura Bitters

• Brandied Cherry as garnish

DIRECTIONS:

Add Rye Whiskey, Amaro, and Bitters to a mixing glass with ice and stir until well chilled. Strain into a martini or coupe glass. Garnish with a Brandied Cherry.

*Fun fact: The recipe for the Manhattan correlates directly to New York City’s famous area code (212). 2 parts Rye, 1 part Vermouth, 2 dashes of Bitters

How did you like it? Tag me on Instagram and let me know @elevateeventbartending

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BY AIMEE L. COOK

BY LEXIE LARSON

Granny’sDriveIn

A SLICE OF HEBER’S HISTORY SINCE 1982

Tucked inside an old, charming house dating back to the 1900s, Granny’s Drive In has been a cherished part of Heber, Utah, since opening its doors in 1982. But its story began long before that. The building itself tells the tale of a bygone era, and its loyal patrons, some as seasoned as 95 years old, proudly share memories of visiting Granny’s since their youth—some say as far back as the 1960s. For many, it’s not just a place to grab a bite but also a living thread connecting generations.

“The house is pretty similar to that of the original owners,” notes Armando Quiñones, owner of Granny’s since 2021. “Only minor extensions have been done. We like Granny’s to remain the same; we feel that restaurants that are in ‘regular’ or commercial buildings lose a bit of soul. If Granny’s ever moves from this early 1900s home, it would lose its character.”

With its iconic school marquee sign that shares playful, witty messages, Granny’s is impossible to miss. This sign, which feels like a friendly wink at both locals and passersby, perfectly sums up the eatery’s vibe—vintage, welcoming, and full of personality.

“Locals are always waiting for it to change every other week or so,” says Armando. “We try to keep it local and funny. This is part of our culture; keep it locally owned and give support to one another.”

What keeps people coming back to Granny’s Drive In, you ask? Sky-high shakes! Thick, creamy, and loaded with toppings, Granny’s shakes are so tall and delicious that they’ve practically become a legend of their own. Pair one with a classic burger layered with fresh ingredients, crispy fries, or golden onion rings, and you’ve got yourself a classic meal from Granny’s.

PHOTOS

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MORE THAN A MEAL, IT’S A COMMUNITY EXPERIENCE

Every small town has that one place—where locals gather, stories are shared, and memories are made. For Heber, that place is Granny’s Drive In. It serves as a nostalgic hangout spot for residents of all ages. On any given day, you’ll find longtime locals reminiscing with old friends, teens stopping by after school, or curious visitors following a tip to try the legendary shakes.

Over the years, the owners of Granny’s Drive In have stayed true to its roots, making only minor changes to the menu to keep things fresh while preserving its classic charm. One such addition is the Bacon Bleu burger, which has quickly found its place among the favorites. Of course, the true stars of the menu remain the timeless classics, like the burger with avocado and cheese and the Savory Western burger. These carefully crafted choices showcase Granny’s commitment to offering something special for everyone while maintaining the

nostalgic flavors that made it a community staple.

While so much has changed around Heber over the past four decades, Granny’s Drive In remains an anchor of tradition. Its commitment to quality, originality, and a sense of fun has kept it thriving in an era of fast-food chains and fleeting trends. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest things—a great burger, a cold milkshake, and a community atmosphere—can stand the test of time.

“The real estate was what initially drew me to purchase Granny’s, but the stories I have heard since owning it have been so fulfilling,” Armando says. “It has been very surprising how much I have enjoyed sitting down with people and hearing their stories.”

If you find yourself in Heber, don’t be surprised when you catch the scent of fresh onion rings wafting through the air or spot a small crowd waiting eagerly to dine at Granny’s Drive In.

BY AIMEE L. COOK

PHOTOS BY LEXIE LARSON

Cascade Design Brings Branded Vision to Small Businesses

When Mason and Sydney Holmes launched Cascade Design in February 2022, they brought more than just a passion for creativity— they cultivated a shared commitment to their local community. The Heber, Utah, natives have turned their love for small businesses into a thriving operation that produces high-quality branded apparel.

“We know a lot of local business owners and knew we wanted to be a local business owner,” Sydney shares. “We had both gone the corporate route and weren’t loving it. The more we thought about it, we came up with the idea for Cascade Design. We realized it was a great way to support local businesses while being a local business.”

Mason has experience in small-business lending at Zions Bank and understands the unique challenges that independent companies face. Meanwhile, Sydney, who honed her marketing skills at Zermatt, brings her branding expertise to the table. Together, they discovered a sweet spot where entrepreneurship meets creativity.

Cascade Design specializes in crafting custom-branded apparel for small businesses—a service that’s not just about putting logos on T-shirts but also creating wearable representations of a brand’s

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identity. Whether it’s sleek polos for a professional setting or vibrant hoodies for a casual vibe, Cascade Design marries function with style.

CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY MEETS SMALL-TOWN VALUES

Cascade Design’s state-of-the-art equipment gives them an edge in producing durable, high-quality products with precise detail. The couple knew little about the process of creating custom apparel but dove all in and learned.

“We purchased the top-of-the-line embroidery machine and screen printer; luckily, it came with training,” says Sydney. “We continue to learn along the way.”

From embroidery to screen printing, Cascade Design’s tech-driven process ensures that businesses can look their best while staying on budget.

Working with Cascade Design means more than just completing an order— it’s about creating a relationship. “We specialize in working with local, small businesses and put their logos on apparel such as shirts, blankets, and hats. We stick to a standard pricing model and stay competitive, but we try to have our pricing match our quality of work.”

FUELING SMALL BUSINESSES AND COMMUNITY

Cascade Design’s mission resonates deeply in Heber and surrounding areas, where small businesses form the backbone of the community. From local schools and sports teams like Soldier Hollow Charter School looking to promote their name, to Summit Contractors, who want to leave a lasting impression, Cascade Design empowers brands of every kind.

For the Holmes family, building a business isn’t just about meeting revenue goals—it’s about strengthening their hometown. On March 17, 2023, Tyler Graham, Mason’s uncle, also a Heber native, was in a snowmobile accident. Since his accident, his mobility has been categorized as paraplegic. Cascade Design created the “Faith to Climb” shirt as a fundraiser for the family. There was an outpouring of support, and more than 800 shirts were ordered, with proceeds going to the Graham family.

“It was pretty major to do all those shirts and ship them to 25 different states,” Sydney adds. “It was pretty intense, but we figured it out and kept the business running.”

As Cascade Design wraps up its second year in business, the future looks bright. The Holmeses are already planning to expand their product offerings and explore new avenues for helping businesses shine.

When asked what fuels their drive, Sydney points back to their roots. “Heber Valley has been so good to us. We love Heber.”

For businesses ready to transform their branding into something both functional and fashionable, Cascade Design is here to make it happen—one perfectly customized creation at a time.

Website: cascadedesign.shop

NAVIGATING HOMEOWNERSHIP WITH HEART:

A MORTGAGE JOURNEY BUILT ON TRUST

For more than two decades, since 2001, I’ve had the privilege of helping individuals and families turn their dreams of homeownership into reality. There’s nothing more rewarding than guiding people, especially first-time homebuyers, through the process and making it as smooth, exciting, and stress-free as possible.

I keep a close eye on the ever-changing mortgage landscape, staying up to date on market trends so my clients (and referral partners) have the latest information to inform their decisions. But beyond just knowing the numbers, I have a deep passion for learning and growing in this industry. That commitment allows me to offer thoughtful advice, creative solutions, and personalized guidance tailored to each person’s unique needs. At the heart of everything I do is family. I’m happily married with an amazing daughter and stepson who are both thriving in college. My clients are like family, too. I treat them with the same care, honesty, and dedication with the goal of building lifelong relationships founded on trust and support.

Outside of work, you’ll find me on the golf course, out on the water, or planning my next travel adventure. At home, life wouldn’t be complete without our beloved dogs, who bring endless joy to our days. I also love being involved in the community—whether it’s volunteering, supporting local events, or connecting with my neighbors, I believe strong communities create happy homeowners.

To me, buying a home isn’t just a financial decision, it’s a milestone. Bringing home a newborn, taking pictures of your child on their first day of school, hosting family meals and gatherings, a dream realized. My goal is to make that journey as easy, exciting, and rewarding as possible.

Let’s make homeownership happen together!

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April

APRIL 1 APRIL FOOLS DAY

APRIL 15 TAX DAY

APRIL 18 GOOD FRIDAY

APRIL 20 EASTER SUNDAY

DATES TO REMEMBER:

APRIL 22 EARTH DAY / ARBOR DAY

MAY 1 MAY DAY

MAY 4

Wednesday Morning Storytime

@Folklore Bookshop 49 N 200 W Suite 101, Midway

Bring your little ones and get comfy in our children's section for storytime on Wednesday mornings.

Time: 10:30-11am • Cost: Free Website: www.folklorebookshop.com

YOGA: Free, Gentle Community Yoga Practice (Ages 55+)

@Wasatch County Library, Bowcutt Room 400 E 1200 S, Heber Wasatch County YOGA FOR SERVICE Class Series. Join Yoga Instructor and volunteer, Marty Harger, for a yoga series intended to bring more grounding and less stress to your week. We use gentle movement connected to breathwork, mindful awareness, and meditation as practices you can learn to incorporate at home to stay calm and well. Presented by the Wasatch County Senior Citizens Center and Wasatch County Library.

Please bring your own yoga mat and yoga block. Wear clothes that allow you to move and breathe freely. Being comfortable is key and all are welcome. The room is a beautiful space to practice together! Questions? Call or text Marty Harger at 801-712-5406.

Time: 8:30-9:30am • Cost: Free Website: https://martyharger.com/event/yoga-classes/

Heber Valley Railroad

@Heber Valley Railroad 450 S 600 W, Heber City

Enjoy the various rides offered at HVRR this month including: Lakeside Limited Train Ride 90 min Thurs, Fri, and Sat. Deer Creek Express Train 90 min Thurs, Fri, and Sat. Chocolate Lovers Train Ride 90 min Select Fridays each month Monday Night Train 90 min Monday nights at 7pm

Time: See website for details • Cost: Ticket prices vary Website: https://www.hebervalleyrr.org/calendar/

A Twist on Taylor

@Ideal Playhouse 113 N Main Street, Heber City

You won't believe how much SJ Rhodes looks, sounds and acts like Taylor Swift in concert. A Twist on Taylor is a must-see tribute act for those who love Taylor Swift! SJ performs an extensive repertoire of Taylor hits, encompassing both her country & pop music eras.

Time: 2 shows, 5pm & 7:50pm • Cost: $29-$36

Website: https://www.hebervalleyentertainment.com/ideal

BY AIMEE L. COOK • PHOTO COURTESY OF DELTA AIR LINES

DID YOU KNOW?

Delta Air Lines is once again offering a daily, nonstop flight from Salt Lake City (SLC) to Santa Barbara (SBA) airport. There are two daily flights to choose from on a 130-passenger A220-300 plane, with a short flight time of just over two hours. What a great way to escape the doldrums of mud season!

“By reopening service to Santa Barbara and delivering more ways to access sought-after destinations throughout the US West, we’re more ready than ever to take our customers on their next great adventures—with the service, reliability, and convenience they’ve come to know and expect when flying Delta,” said Joe Esposito, senior vice president of network planning at Delta, in a press release.

This flight option was offered briefly from August 2019 to July 2020, but complications from the Covid-19 pandemic halted this service. This service was the most requested by the Santa Barbara community, above any of the others.

DEPARTURES

Twice Daily from Salt Lake City (SLC) 6:00 a.m. SBA > SLC 8:55 a.m. 1:20 p.m. SBA > SLC 4:15 p.m.

Community Dance

ARRIVALS

Twice Daily to Salt Lake City (SLC) 11:15 a.m. SLC > SBA 12:18 p.m. 10:45 p.m. SLC > SBA 11:51 p.m.

@Midway Town Hall 160 W Main Street, Midway This all-ages event is open for everyone to enjoy old-time community dancing—no partner or experience needed, as you can learn on the spot. Tickets are just $7 for adults and $5 for kids.

5:00 - 6:00 PM: Kids ages 3 - 12

6:00 - 6:30 PM: Beginner's Workshop (ages 8+)

6:30 - 9:30 PM: Contra Dance (ages 8+)

Time: 5-9:30pm • Cost: Adults $7, Kids $5

Website: ArtAroundTheSquare.com

Heber Valley Baby Animal Days Celebration

@Heber Valley Artisan Cheese - Kohler Creamery 920 River Road, Midway

Experience the joy of spring during the local and historic farm’s annual baby animal days celebration. Interact and learn about a variety of farm animals, take a hay ride, and playing on the farm. General Admission is free for two-years-old and younger. Admission is valid for ONE day of the event. Young children (0 to 7 years old must be accompanied by a paying adult). Additional VIP tickets for calf feeding and milk barn tours are also available.

NOTE: This event is hosted in a farm pasture – strollers and wheelchairs welcome, just plan accordingly. And wear appropriate closed-toe footwear that can get dirty.

Time: 10am-6pm

Cost: 2 and under Free, $8 GA

Website: https://hebervalleyartisancheese.com/

Heber City: 700 residential properties sold in the past year in Heber. The median home value in Heber City is $876,690. There were 10,432 residential properties in zip code 84032 in 2024.

Midway City: 279 residential properties sold in the past year in Midway. The median home value in Midway is $1,153,958. There were 3,829 residential properties in zip code 84049 in 2024.

Park City: In the past year, 1,627 residential properties were sold in Park City. The median home value is $1,596,478. There are a total of 23,049 residential properties in Park City.

AVERAGE PRICE 69K LOWEST PRICE 21M HIGHEST PRICE 460 TOTAL LISTINGS 135 AVG. DAYS ON MARKET $2.3K AVG PRICE PER SQ FT

$1.8M

Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement

MEET REGGAN JASTRAM: With a distinguished career spanning 20 years in the real estate industry, Reggan brings a level of expertise and sophistication that is unparalleled. As a broker for 9 years, she has successfully led her own boutique brokerage as well as one of the largest Brokerages in the area. She offers a personalized, high-end luxury service to all of her clients regardless of the listing.

your next group gathering unforgettable. Whether you ' re planning a corporate retreat, a team meeting, or a special event, this limitedtime deal delivers exceptional

effortless and memorable. Park City’s hidden gem for gatherings of all sizes.

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Thank you to our amazing community for your support, energy, and dedication. Your presence and participation make all the difference and we are truly grateful to be surrounded by such an incredible group of individuals. We’re already looking forward to our next gathering. Until then, thank you for being a part of this journey with us!

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MEET THE SALMON FAMILY

“The people surrounding us are people who inspire us. One of the most amazing things we have found here in the valley is that we are surrounded by people who inspire us to do more and to believe in ourselves.”

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Saturday, April 12 | 10 am - 3 pm

Wasatch County Rec Center

Ask Heber Valley Community Expo: Bringing Neighbors Together Spring in Heber Valley means fresh mountain air, longer days, and the return of one of our most engaging community gatherings—the Ask Heber Valley Community Expo! This annual event is back and bigger than ever, taking place on Saturday, April 12th, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Wasatch Recreation Center

The Community Expo is more than just a showcase of local businesses—it’s a celebration of what makes Heber Valley such a special place to live, work, play, and connect. It’s where neighbors meet, businesses thrive, and residents discover the incredible resources right here in their own backyard. Whether you’re looking to connect with local retailers, explore healthcare options, or learn more about community services, there’s something for everyone at this year’s Community Expo.

What

to Expect at the 2025 Expo

With dozens of exhibitor booths spanning industries like tourism, healthcare, retail, and non-profits, attendees will have the chance to engage with local business owners and community leaders, ask questions, and take advantage of exclusive promotions. New for 2025, the Family Zone will offer fun for kids with free face painting and balloon characters while also serving as a hub for valuable family-friendly resources. And for those who love to sample the best local flavors, an enhanced food and beverage concessions area will feature delicious bites from some of Heber Valley’s favorite dining spots.

“The Ask Heber Valley Community Expo is a wonderful opportunity for residents to engage with local businesses, discover new resources, and strengthen community connections,” says Dallin Koecher, Executive Director of the Heber Valley Chamber, Tourism, and Economic Development office. “We are thrilled to bring back this event and introduce exciting new features that make it even more valuable for local attendees and exhibitors alike.”

Giving Back to the Community

One of the most rewarding aspects of the Community Expo is its commitment to giving back. This year, attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations to support the local food drive. Those who contribute will be entered into prize drawings held throughout the day—a great way to do some good while also having a chance to win something fun.

Join the Celebration

Best of all, admission is free, making it easy for anyone and everyone to attend and enjoy the experience. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the valley, the Ask Heber Valley Community Expo is the perfect way to connect, learn, and celebrate the vibrant local community and culture here. Mark your calendars, bring your family and friends, and get ready for a day filled with discovery, fun, and community spirit!

For event updates and more details, follow the Heber Valley Chamber (@hebervalleychamber) on Facebook and Instagram or visit gohebervalley.com/expo.

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WHILE

MANY PEOPLE’S DREAM ENVIRONMENT INVOLVES SWAYING PALM TREES, CRASHING WAVES AND GLITTERING SEASHORES, THE SALMON FAMILY HAD ALWAYS LONGED TO BE IN HEBER CITY. “We had wanted to move to Heber for a long time,” said Meredith Salmon. “We tried to settle in Heber when Bryant was in PA (Physician's Assistant) school in 2009, that was our goal. He did a lot of his rotations up here, hoping to network enough to find a job. Ultimately, he was only able to find a part time job after he graduated, so that wasn't enough.” The family lived in Kaysville for 5 years so Bryant could establish himself in Orthopedics. “Our kids were little and we were just running ragged,” Meredith continued. “Bryant was working a ton of hours and he didn't have a lot of control over his schedule.The kids were in so many things and that’s when we just started to dream a little.” Their dream began as a playful joke between a married couple and quickly became more than lighthearted, whimsical banter; it evolved into a plan of action as to how they could simplify their life. “We'd fallen in love with Kauai the year before. So that was our thing. We just quit our lives and moved to Kauai,” said Meredith, who worked full time as a Registered Nurse while Bryant parented the kids and ran the household for a year, all the while debating the carefully procured pros and cons of staying on the island or moving back to their home state of Utah. As alluring as the idea of staying long term was, the mountain air, family proximity, and the decades long love affair with the Heber Valley replayed in their minds. “Kauai is the dream, but the problem is, it's a different dream. When all your extended family is here it's hard having your kids be that far away from their grandparents and their cousins,” Bryant recalled. “We started thinking back to our long term goal,” added Meredith, “and we always wanted the Heber Valley to be our final landing spot. I used to joke that if we couldn't live in Heber, I didn't want to live anywhere.”

© Best Version Media

In August of 2017, the Salmon family packed up, traded their beach blankets for beanies, and headed east. “We just loved the smaller mountain town, the outdoor living, and the golf courses,” said Bryant, who has created a whole family of golfers with all four children taking up the sport–– in addition to baseball for the boys and gymnastics for their littlest, Ruby.

It's often said that with little risk yields little reward but that couldn’t be further from the truth as it related to life in the Heber Valley for the Salmon family. “If we were gonna live in Heber, we had to learn to love the things that people love in Heber!” Meredith said with a grin, as she listed out the family interests, which include mountain biking, boating, golfing, baseball, and snowboarding (for Jack and Brock), while little Ruby plays basketball, tumbles, and practices gymnastics. Their eldest son, Caden, lives in North Carolina serving a mission

for their church. If an ordinary family is lucky and brave enough to live one outlandish dream in their life, it would be considered an enormous blessing, but the Salmon family isn’t ordinary. “We have met the best adult friends that we've ever had in our lives and we've really enjoyed adventuring with them,” said Meredith, when asked what keeps the adults busy and fulfilled. Adventure? What sorts of adventures? “We hiked Kilimanjaro in 2023, we hiked The Subway and other incredible hikes–and not to mention lots of golf adventures,” said Bryant. Life was great, but they longed for more. More freedom to do their own thing, and possibly bring something different to the Heber Valley, without the shackling restrictions of corporate healthcare. “It was the Kilimanjaro trip where we had long discussions about life as we were hiking for hours at a time. Asking questions like, ‘What do you see yourselves doing in five years? What are your goals? What are you afraid of?’ It gave us the courage and space to

© Best Version Media

talk about the idea of what would become Wasatch Optimal Wellness (WOW).” As a small idea that required nurturing, feeding, and tending to, their once trail-talk, began to grow. “The people surrounding us are people who inspire us,” said Bryant “I would say that one of the most amazing things we have found here in the valley is that we are surrounded by people who inspire us to do more and believe in ourselves.” But why WOW? Why not just another family practice? “In fourth grade our oldest son, Caden, was knocked unconscious playing indoor soccer,” remembers Meredith, “He was plowed into a wall head first and then within three to four weeks of that head injury, he fell backwards in PE and hit his head on the wood floor.” It was these two consecutive concussions and subsequent challenges that eventually led the concerned parents to get Caden’s brain scanned through Brain Spect Imaging at the renowned Amen Clinic, which yielded significant results. Caden’s doctor recommended Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy as part of his treatment plan, but despite years of medical experience, the family knew little about it. An even bigger hurdle, however, was that there was nowhere in the valley to receive this treatment. “I ended up buying a chamber before I knew enough about it to know not to do that, because it’s just a soft chamber that’s not FDA approved and it's still in our basement,” Meredith recalls, with the humor only a mother can offer as she diligently sought out a way to help her son. “I learned a lot in the process of trying to help Caden,” she adds, “which is when we started the idea of a hyperbaric clinic.”

With Meredith and Bryant both being in medicine for years, they often reflected, what if at some point they ended up working together? What if they were to do something together? “I’ve actually always sort of known in my heart that someday Bryant and I would work together,” said Meredith, “but it was always a vague idea, never with anything specific in mind.”

In 2022, while out to dinner with friends, Kerry and Ben Fogg, otherwise known as Dr. Fogg (who was a Family Practitioner at Heber Valley Clinic at the time), the foursome talked and dreamed about what it would be like to do something on their own and bring a more proactive approach to health to Heber Valley–specifically, the use of Hyperbarics. After dinner the dream was put back on a shelf, but it didn’t stay there for long. After Meredith and Bryant’s inspirational hiking trip to Kilimanjaro, the wheels kept turning, and just as their “crazy dream” to move to Kauai had evolved back in 2016, the idea for a clinic in Heber refused to be ignored and forged its way toward reality. In the summer of 2023, fueled by the enthusiasm of trusted friends—successful entrepreneurs and business owners themselves— the Salmons made a firm decision to take the leap and open a clinic. With renewed determination, they approached Ben and Kerry Fogg, revisiting the conversations they’d had in 2022, when the idea of leaving corporate medicine first took root. This time, it wasn’t just a dream; it was a well-formed plan to transform healthcare in the Wasatch Back.

Recognizing the opportunity to build something truly different, Ben embraced the mission wholeheartedly. With the Foggs on board, the team found the perfect space, signed the lease, and got to work—laying the foundation for what would become Wasatch Optimal Wellness. The three former corporate healthcare workers, a doctor, a PA, and an RN spent the next year developing, curating, and imagining all aspects of a wellness clinic where people can find hope in a better life, to feel exceptional and optimize their health proactively rather than reactively.

The Salmon family dares to dream and through those dreams they have curiously explored new territories, new homes, and new careers.

PHOTO BY BROOKE BAKKEN PHOTOGRAPHY

© Best Version Media

Together, the Salmon and Fogg families have created WOW, the Heber Valley’s premier wellness clinic in the Wasatch back, and look forward to sharing with the community their passion for holistic wellness through the convergence of knowledge and modalities of Western medicine and more holistic and modern cutting edge wellness practices, creating a sanctuary for individuals to reconnect with their health, minds, and spirits. WOW stands as a testament to the power of family, passion, and community—an embodiment of their deep-rooted belief that proactive holistic care can be meshed with western medicine to optimize health and performance. From the day they opened their doors in August 2024, The Salmon and Fogg families have invited the Heber Valley and surrounding communities to embark on a journey of healing, growth, and well-being. It's more than a business for them; it's a legacy of care, compassion, and commitment to the health of others. The future of WOW looks bright, full of promise, and ready to touch lives in ways they’ve always dreamed of.

EMPOWERING UTAH WOMEN:

A LOOK INSIDE THE WOMEN’S BUSINESS CENTER, PART TWO

The Women’s Business Center of Utah (WBCUtah) is a vital resource dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs across Utah. By offering personalized business advising, training programs, and a supportive community, the WBCUtah helps women achieve their professional aspirations and create lasting economic impact.

All responses below are provided by Ann Marie Wallace, State Director of the Women’s Business Center of Utah (WBCUtah).

Neighbors: How does the Women’s Business Center collaborate with other organizations and community partners to support women entrepreneurs?

A: WBCUtah collaborates with many organizations to maximize its impact on women business owners. For example, the center works with 24 rural chambers of commerce, each hosting an Online WBC powered by WBCUtah, to serve women in rural areas with focused training and advising. Additionally, WBCUtah partners with statewide and regional organizations like the SBA Utah District Office, Utah Small Business Development Center Network, and SCORE mentors to provide resources and opportunities for business owners.

The center plays a trusted role as a representative for Utah women entrepreneurs in decision-making spaces. It also collaborates with the Utah Women’s Leadership Project on public policy and research and leads initiatives such as “A Bolder Way Forward” to create change and improve opportunities for Utah women in business ownership.

Neighbors: How does the Women’s Business Center promote diversity and inclusion within the entrepreneurial landscape in Utah?

A: WBCUtah promotes diversity and inclusion through intentional outreach, inclusive services, and advocacy:

• Outreach & Engagement:

• Targeted Outreach: Actively engaging with women of color, immigrant

women, LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, and women with disabilities through culturally sensitive programs and partnerships with community organizations.

• Rural Outreach: Expanding services to women in rural Utah to address unique challenges.

• Inclusive Services:

• Culturally Competent Advising: Offering personalized advising for women from diverse backgrounds.

• Language Accessibility: Expanding services in various languages for accessibility.

• Inclusive Training: Designing trainings that are accessible to all, including captioned online courses for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

• Advocacy:

• Advocating for policies that support women entrepreneurs of all backgrounds.

• Raising awareness about the value of diversity in Utah’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

By prioritizing inclusivity, WBCUtah creates an equitable environment for all women entrepreneurs to thrive.

Neighbors: What are the future goals and priorities of the Women’s Business Center, and how do you plan to expand your reach and impact in the coming years?

A: WBCUtah’s future goals focus on growing its reach and supporting more women entrepreneurs across Utah. Their priorities include:

• Elevating the Brand: Enhancing their brand identity to connect with more women entrepreneurs and effectively communicate their mission.

• Strengthening Statewide Presence: Actively engaging with women across all 29 counties through outreach, partnerships, and strategic marketing.

• Enhancing Services: Continuously improving programs to meet the evolving needs of women entrepreneurs, exploring innovative

By Aimee L. Cook

service delivery models, and expanding resources to underserved communities.

• Cultivating Inclusion: Building a more diverse team and service offerings, including adding new language options to improve accessibility.

Neighbors: What advice would you give to women in Utah who are considering starting their own businesses?

A: For women considering starting a business, here’s WBCUtah’s advice:

1. Believe in Yourself: Confidence is key— trust your abilities.

2. Validate Your Idea: Research your market, identify your target audience, and ensure there’s demand for your product or service.

3. Create a Solid Business Plan: Outline your goals, financial projections, and marketing strategy.

4. Leverage Resources: Use resources like WBCUtah for workshops, advising, and connections with other entrepreneurs.

5. Build a Network: Foster relationships with other business owners, mentors, and industry professionals by attending local events and joining business organizations.

6. Commit to Learning: Stay informed about trends, best practices, and new technologies through workshops and mentoring.

7. Find Support: Surround yourself with supportive people and remember to celebrate your milestones.

ROONIE’S ICE CREAM: HANDCRAFTED NOVELTY IN HEBER VALLEY

By Aimee L. Cook

Roonie’s Ice Cream has captured the taste buds of Heber Valley locals and visitors. Known for its handcrafted ice cream bars and sandwiches, every treat from Roonies is a taste of quality and creativity.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Stacy Harfert, along with her two sons, Colby (16) and Ben (15), decided to blend a little sweetness into a challenging time. With her background in product development, Stacy began crafting ice cream bars infused with natural vanilla ice cream and colorful chocolate drizzles.

“It started as just a project for the kids and I,” said Stacy. “I have a background in product development, and the products have always aligned with my kid’s ages. It wasn’t really a surprise that I would take something like ice cream and realize it was a product too.”

She spotted an opportunity for unique, festive desserts that brought joy at a time when people needed it most. What started as a small venture selling ice cream bars at local markets like Park Silly and the Heber Market became a runaway success. The response was overwhelming, and with the support of their local community, Roonie’s Ice Cream transformed from a family kitchen experiment to a booming business.

DISCOVER ROONIE’S

What makes Roonie’s Ice Cream, named after the family cat, stand out in a sea of frozen desserts is the attention to detail and commitment to quality. Every Roonie’s product begins with the freshest dairy. Their 14% butterfat ice cream is churned slowly to achieve an irresistibly creamy texture, creating a perfectly indulgent treat.

“When I was developing it, I looked at what was out there, and there is so much, from vegan to dairy-free, and it had me thinking about ice cream novelties; we hadn’t really seen much going on there for a while,” Stacy said. “Usually ice cream bars are just brown and boring, so I tried to use my creativity and use the colorful chocolate drizzles, so they really pop.”

Prefer sandwiches over bars? Stacy knows how to make those unforgettable, too. Ice cream sandwiches pair their smooth ice cream with a soft, delicious cookie. Topped off with a chocolate drizzle or vibrant sprinkles, each sandwich is as dazzling as it is delicious.

Roonie’s ice cream bars come in three primary flavors: chocolate chip mint, strawberry, and cookies and cream, which are made from real Oreos. The sandwiches also come in three primary flavors: Cookies and Cream, Vanilla with sprinkles and Cookie Dough. Pricing runs around $4.25 each.

“We tried other flavors, and I tested them at local markets and gathered feedback from people; we have been fortunate to be so supported by the local community,” Stacy added. “Even now, Cookies and Cream is still the top-selling flavor.”

Roonie’s Ice Cream is made in a facility in Heber and delivered around Utah, Idaho, Nevada, California, Montana and Oregon.

SUPPORTING THE WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES OF HEBER VALLEY

Spring 2025 Selling Guide: How

to Make Your Home Stand Out in Today’s Market

Spring has always been the busiest season in real estate. The warmer weather, longer days, and fresh energy after winter encourage buyers to hit the market. If you’re considering selling, now is a great time to list your home. But here’s the catch—you’re not the only one. Each spring, new listings flood the market, meaning buyers have plenty of options to choose from. If you want to sell quickly and for top dollar, your home needs to stand out from the competition. Here’s how to make sure buyers notice, remember, and choose your home in today’s market.

1. Boost Your Curb Appeal: First Impressions Matter More Than Ever

Buyers often decide within seconds whether they’re interested in a home— sometimes before they even walk through the door. Your home’s curb appeal sets the tone for the entire showing.

▶ Fresh landscaping: Mow the lawn, trim the hedges, and plant fresh flowers to create a warm, inviting look.

▶ Update your front door & hardware: A fresh coat of paint in a bold color and new hardware can instantly modernize your entryway.

▶ Showcase outdoor living: Stage a patio with seating, add string lights or a fire pit, and highlight outdoor areas that add value to your home.

2. Stage for Today’s Buyers: Neutral, Bright & Move-In Ready

Buyers don’t just look at homes—they picture their lives in them. Staging helps buyers connect emotionally to your home, making them more likely to make an offer.

▶ Declutter & depersonalize: Pack away

Contact me to discover how I offer alternatives – where marketing and exposure matters, negotiation and sales skills matter and where networks, affiliations and a rich brand heritage matter.

personal photos and knickknacks to create a clean, open feel.

▶ Maximize light & space: Open blinds, add mirrors, and use warm neutral tones to make rooms feel bigger and brighter.

▶ Small updates, big impact:

▶ Swap outdated light fixtures for modern, stylish options.

▶ Refresh kitchen and bathroom cabinets with new hardware.

▶ Touch up walls, doors, and baseboards with fresh paint.

3. Price It Right: Smart Pricing in 2025’s Market

Pricing strategy is critical in today’s market. Buyers are more informed than ever and won’t overpay for a home.

▶ Overpricing leads to price cuts later. If your home sits on the market, buyers start to wonder what’s wrong with it.

▶ Look at SOLD prices, not just list prices What homes actually sell for gives you the most realistic picture of market value.

▶ A well-priced home attracts multiple offers. Instead of pricing high and hoping, start competitively and let demand drive your sale price up.

4.

Market Like a Pro: Get Your Home Maximum Exposure

The way buyers search for homes has changed. Your home’s first showing is online, not in person. If your listing doesn’t grab attention immediately, it will be overlooked.

▶ Professional photography & video tours: High-quality images are non-negotiable.

Dark, blurry phone pictures don’t cut it!

▶ Strategic digital marketing: Your home needs to be seen beyond just the MLS.

That means:

▶ Targeted social media campaigns.

▶ Email marketing to qualified buyers.

▶ Exposure on top-tier real estate sites beyond just Zillow.

For example, at Summit Sotheby’s International Realty, we provide:

▶ In-house advertising experts who create magazine-quality photography, cinematic video, and custom marketing campaigns.

▶ Unparalleled photo and video distribution, placing your home on exclusive media sites with higher quality photos and videos than other brokerages.

▶ An exclusive global network that ensures your home is seen by well connected agents and high-intent buyers.

In a competitive spring market, marketing makes the difference. If you want the best exposure, you need an agent with the best marketing tools.

5.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Home the One Buyers Remember

Spring buyers have choices—give them a reason to choose yours. By focusing on curb appeal, staging, pricing, and world-class marketing, you can attract serious buyers and get the best price for your home.

Thinking of selling this spring? Let’s get your home ready to stand out. Call me today, and we’ll create a custom plan to sell your home for top dollar in 2025’s competitive market.

Call or text me now to start the process! 435-800-3030. Email me for a free home consultation. andyemory@gmail.com

Your Personal Prison Guard: Meet Funk

Let’s talk about funk. And yes, I’m talking mostly to you, high schoolers. April is the final stretch, the last real month of school. The month things start to warm up, which means you want to be outside, you want to forget about homework, and you want summer to come more than anything else in the world. This is the month I would like to introduce a friend you all probably know too well. April is the month of “The Funk.”

Ever dreaded doing something easy, like picking out an outfit? Ever fallen asleep at 7 p.m. because you are exhausted and can’t keep your eyes open? Or even felt anxious throughout the day, not really knowing why you feel like that?

This is what I like to call The Funk. It’s the voice in our head and the sheet over our eyes that make the days seem repetitive, tiring, and anxietyinducing. The Funk talks to you like a prison guard, trapping you in a cell and taking your personal power away, making everything you want to do seem like a task you can’t manage, can’t handle, and shouldn’t do. Funk locks you in your room, in your bed, in the dark, on your phone. Doom-scrolling, comparing, and in a cycle of anxiety. It makes trying to find an activity for the day feel pointless—you know, the feeling when you wake up and have nothing to look forward to? So, maybe all you feel is a little sad and a little tired, and you don’t know why? That is The Funk in its natural form. Funk is a master of making life seem way harder and scarier than it is. Funk and anxiety are sort of like two peas in a pod.

For high schoolers who have been going to school for eight months at this point, this couldn’t be more true. When I was in high school, I would get into a constant washing-machine cycle of sweatpants and hoodies. I would feel so overwhelmed with the routine of assignments and social outings that I fell into my own funk. The sameness drained me a bit, to a point where nothing felt important. The same people, same clothes, same anxiety, same tired eyes and gray sweatpants. Not to mention coming out of the cold and harsh winters that Utah loves to give us. The Funk thrives in this environment. So, I’m here to give you a game plan for how you can go about overcoming funk.

Funk wants you to think that little tasks don’t matter, but they do. They give you a sense of purpose and productivity. One thing that The Funk hates is when you pick out an outfit. Yes, as easy as picking out an outfit. A pair of jeans with a T-shirt you just thrifted might make you feel ready to conquer a day, instead of living in the same sweatpants for the past three days. It is a simple step away from funk. You get your free will and your personal power back when you do something like making your bed, even brushing your hair, or taking a shower. All simple tasks that will propel you towards calm.

The second thing that funk hates is movement. Not the “working out and going to the gym” type of movement, but the “walking out of your room” kind. Walking away from the couch. Opening the front door. Funk hates that. Funk wants you to think you don’t have energy, time, or drive to go anywhere but your bed. When you get up and go grab a coffee, go for a long scenic drive, and walk around the neighborhood, you are changing your scenery and actively changing your mindset. Even though it feels like something tremendously small, it isn’t.

When I’m in my funk, I get dressed and go somewhere. Anywhere. I find

it works almost every time because you are changing what The Funk makes you think is unchangeable. And the best part is that anyone can get dressed, anyone can go for a walk. Anyone can move from their bed to the basement couch with a book or a new movie.

Now, this is the final secret: If there is one thing The Funk can’t stand, it’s someone who tries. I can already see my own funk backing away. You don’t need a gold medal or a star on your shoulder—all you need to do is get out of bed, change your boring environment, do your homework, and put your makeup on. Placing one step in front of the other breaks the mental loop you are stuck in, freeing your mind and enabling you to remove your eye mask. You don’t need to succeed or win, just simply try.

For all the high schoolers who are trapped in their own personal funk: All you need to do is stand up. Take back your power, even if you feel like nothing will work or break the trance. It will.

Because you can. You can, you can, you can. You have power, you have purpose, you have greatness, and beauty, and fun. Take that first step.

THE SCENES

Heber Educator Lauren Chevalier Brings Her Passion and Purpose to Class © Best Version Media

BY SANDY GLEDHOF

BY LEXIE LARSON AND LAUREN CHEVALIER

us. A man in a wheelchair wanted to see a temple

so he could see the temple. It was like a cultural

BEHIND

PHOTOS

© Best Version Media

aligns with my core beliefs and standards,” she said. “Each elementary school has a Life Skills educator and classroom, and I am very grateful to the district and Old Mill for their endless support of my classroom and students.”

At her hiring, Lauren immediately got to work creating a recreation program for the five elementary schools in the district consisting of swimming, skiing, horseback riding, and coaching the Special Olympics bowling team, which lasted eleven years until WCSD and the P.E.A.K. [Parents Empowering Abled Kids] program took over. “That was such a special program to be a part of,” she said. Chevalier blends her background in recreational therapy with traditional studies like math and reading into her daily curriculum. Focusing on behaviors including toileting, social and emotional regulation and self-help skills, she works with a team of four paraprofessionals in the classroom who help to assist students one-on-one with their participation in the general education classes they also attend. “My para team are the backbone of my class. They help with speech therapy, occupational therapy, vision therapy, and physical and motor therapies. I feel so lucky to call them friends and I could not do my job without them,” she said.

According to Chevalier, an important focus for her students is integration into the general student population at Old Mill. With the help of the paraprofessional team she has helped train, each student spends time in other classrooms throughout the day, which Chevalier said not only helps them feel included, but also helps the other students with acceptance of kids who appear different than them. “I want the world to see these amazing little people for who they are and not their disability. I will continue to teach acceptance and kindness and try to break down barriers before they are even built.” To illustrate this goal, each year she brings a “brag book” into the general classes, introducing her students to students in the general classes. “This helps all the students see what they have in common instead of the differences,” she said. “It’s like, this kid has Down syndrome but guess what? He likes pizza, he likes movies, he likes music. You’re more similar than you think.”

Her students spend time every day in the general education classrooms, working among the other students on traditional classroom studies, and Chevalier will make modifications to the curriculum being taught, as needed and on an individual basis. “Every student will go into a classroom and then they’ll come back to my class and we’ll do a whole group activity. They go to lunch and PE and the library with their classes but then they’ll come back to me, and I do hyper interventions to work with them on everything,” she said.

The integrative approach also helps her students with critical social skills. “By working among their peers they’re learning how to share, how to wait their turn, how to accept rejection and how to join a group,” she said. “They learn behaviors from peers within their social circles and that helps them advance in ways just studies can’t accomplish. They just have to learn how to navigate and understand social norms.”

Unlike traditional teachers whose students move on after each school year to the next grade, Chevalier spends up to seven years with her students, including two years of preschool through the fifth grade. “After all these years you would think I birthed this child,” she laughed.

Chevalier said her Life Skills curriculum also focuses on the future and involves teaching her students skills that are useful and necessary toward

independence. “When I work with these little guys, I teach them how to follow a recipe, how to fold laundry. I have a washer and dryer in my room. One of my students loves the smell of coffee and is very engineering-minded so every morning he helps me make my coffee,” she said. “I try to prepare them for the time when many of them will be able to have a job, they’ll be able to live on their own, and that in itself is so rewarding.”

Outside of the classroom Chevalier, who is married and has three children of her own, makes sure she builds in time for fun, regularly scheduling field trips and outings for her students. “We go rock climbing, horseback riding, we have attended the Festival of Trees, Ballet West, and even the local pumpkin patch,” she said. She also gave credit to the many local resources and organizations who assist with transportation, costs, and programming as well as the overwhelming support from the local community. Some of those organizations include the NAC, the P.E.A.K. program, which donates its annual fundraising proceeds to the program and helped provide vans to the school district which, Chevalier said, was a “game changer.”

Chevalier said she truly is living her calling working with students with significant special needs. “Teaching my students fills my heart and brings me so much joy!” she said. “The world is filled with barriers for them, and I refuse to let the schools be one. When they come into school, I am their advocate and family’s ambassador. I will always make sure that their needs are met, and they are getting what they need to be successful.

Rachael Crooks, whose son has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and is one of Chevalier’s students, is a fan. “Lauren has made a lifechanging impact on my son,” she said. “[She] puts her heart and soul into every child she cares for and has been an incredible advocate and has helped him succeed in all areas of life. Without Lauren in my son’s life, I feel he would not be where he is today.”

Hamic had similar praise. “Knowing that Lauren is at the helm of Maddox’s education gives me immense peace of mind. She not only prioritizes his academic success but nurtures his social and emotional well-being, ensuring he feels supported, included, and valued. She is truly a gift to our family and to the entire community.”

Appointments and Walk-ins Welcome Gift Certificates Available Follow Us On Social Media For News And Promotions! @hebernailspa (385) 456-7989 75 West 1000 South, Suite 300 & 400 Heber City, Utah 84032

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Mon - Sat: 9:30 AM - 7:00 PM Sunday: 10:30 AM - 4:00 PM VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR CURRENT SPECIALS: hebernailspa.com

SPRING CLEANING: Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo

Spring-cleanup time, Heber locals! Who is ready to get to work? I will make this a more effortless cleaning experience by offering helpers! If we look back at the classic Disney movie Cinderella, she had several helpers to assist her with cleaning processes: the mice, the Fairy Godmother, the birds, and more.

Here are some great local helpers/ resources for navigating spring cleaning—in your homes and your lives. Remember that you can click your wand throughout the year, which creates positive change and fosters magic.

MIDWAY YARD SALE: $ CHA CLEAN

After getting tired of using Facebook Marketplace to sell items I no longer had use for, I found Midway Yard Sale to be a massive resource for cleaning out my home. Many people have sellable items that they no longer need or that serve a purpose to them. I found Facebook Marketplace difficult because people often would no-show for the sale of items and were potential scam artists. Plus, dealing with pickup locations can be frustrating, so I was delighted to learn about the Midway Yard Sale Group, which can be found on GroupMe. So, let’s say you have a pile of kids’ clothes you no longer use, because we all know kids grow like weeds. You can jump on Midway Yard Sale and post, “I have a bundle of size 3T girls’ clothes for sale, $20,” and include a picture of the bundle, a location for porch pickup, and a small detail of the items (some Burberry, some Paige brand, and so on).

The online yard sale runs throughout the day. In this chat group, locals sell anything from free items, clothing, and home goods to kids' toys, skis, and more. It is easy to clean out your home, pass off items to buyers on your porch, and quickly collect funds from your sale from trusted locals. In most cases, you do not even have to be home for the buyer to collect.

Please beware: If you are a shopaholic, you may get caught up in the buying game while trying to spring-clean.

DROP-AND-GO DONATIONS: DROP YOUR LOAD

There are two drop-and-go locations that I recommend to people when they ask me for an easy place to donate used items that they are ready to part with.

Boys & Girls Club: Drop boxes are located by the Midway Market in Midway and by Smith’s in Heber. This is a great spot to drop off clothing; all items go to a wonderful cause that helps and empowers our youth. Look for the green-and-white drop boxes!

Heber Valley Thrift: Accepts donations of all kinds, normally from Wednesday to Friday, in the back of their store. If you are doing a heavy-duty spring cleaning, this spot will take most things, including furniture, clothing, rugs, paintings, and more!

CLEANING R&A: HOME CLEANERS

Keeping up with work, kids, pets, and family is a lot—leaving many local homeowners feeling like they can never keep their homes clean. Enter Angelica Hart and her excellent team of cleaning professionals to handle deep cleaning! A team of 5+ people will attend to your household cleaning needs. Keeping cleaning times to about 3–5 hours for a large home, Angelica understands how having a cleaning reset button can get you back and centered on a routine. Many people in our community use her services on a biweekly or monthly basis for the maintenance of their homes. We all need a mother’s or father’s helper: Do not act too proud to accept help in your cleaning process. Check out Angelica’s Facebook page for regular seasonal cleaning specials: facebook.com/angelica.pedriel.3/

ELLE AESTHETICS: FACIAL CLEANSING

When we think of acne, we often think of our teen years. Believe it or not, many people, including myself, are experiencing adult acne or other skin issues for some reason or another. Elle Aesthetics in Heber offers multiple skincare treatment plans to help you with your skincare needs, like microneedling and HydraFacials. Do not try to be Dr. Pimple Popper—in many cases, you can avoid scarring and recurring skin blemishes by seeing a local provider. No joke, the feeling you get after coming out of there with cleared pores is ultimate freshness and cleanliness! Check them out at elleaestheticsutah.com.

IN LIVING: BAGGAGE

There is a common saying—we all have skeletons in our closets. Maybe this spring, it is time to clean out your closet. You may have had a traumatizing life event that is holding you back from trying something new or being the best you can be; carrying all that baggage around with you can be exhausting. Tim Cregor, LMFT, can help with your mental healthcare needs—consider it a mental cleanse. Do not put mental health on the back burner, as it is known to be a leading cause of many physical health problems if left untreated. Tim helps not only adults but also teens. You can book an appointment with him at inliving.org.

MOUNTAIN WELLNESS KITCHEN: GUT CLEANUP

After suffering from one of the worst stomach bugs in February, I felt dedicated to being more mindful of my food and beverage choices. If you want healthy options for a spring clean on your gut, I highly recommend checking out the café items at Mountain Wellness Kitchen. With options for GF, DF, Paleo, and more, they will have you covered if you want to clean up your eating game. The café can even encourage the pickiest kid to get their fruits and veggies in—some of my favorites include their Mermaid Bowl, Chinese Chicken Salad, and the Keto Green Smoothie. You can find Mountain Wellness Kitchen at 32 S Main St in Heber City.

Well, this is where I leave the magic wand in your hands. I hope the cleaning wand is as easy as “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo,” the song from Cinderella. With a spring clean, my wish is that all of your dreams come true.

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BUNNY SPOTS AND HOPS

Yes, we are in April now, so no more bunny slopes for you locals. Keep those bunny ears high, though; fretting is unnecessary. I know the snow may be gone, but there is still so much fun to be had in the spring. We have loads of hops and spots to cover around the city!

Warning: Some of these spots are overly indulgent…pace yourself, because there are some mouthwatering treats and delights ahead.

“Now run along, and don’t get into mischief.” – Josephine Rabbit

Probst Family Funeral Home: Bunny Patch

The bunny is ALIVE at this local business and loves to frequent the Probst Family Funeral Home in April. Bunny drops loads of eggs off for the kids of Wasatch County. I can honestly say that I have been to the Probst Family Funeral Home bunny gathering twice with my daughter now, and it is one of the best patches in town. The hunt is spread out enough for your kids so that they don’t get caught up in a trample situation, and it’s a sure game that everyone's basket gets filled at the end of this hunt. The property managers make it a priority to dress the part, always including tons of treats before the hunt even begins, and their Heber Valley location has a large lawn area for kids to access. This is one of the few local businesses that opens its bunny patches to the community with no weather setbacks—rain, snow, or sunshine. You never know what the weather will look like in April! Years back, when we had one of the worst winters noted by locals, they kept their doors open, moved the hunt inside, and made it available for all. This is a staple spot for kids to enjoy bunny fun and runs.

Heber Valley Nails: Funny Bunny

“It’s a little bit funny, this feeling inside,” sings Elton John in “Your Song”

And how—having a fresh set of manicured nails—it is! Sometimes, you just need to treat yourself to something without judgment. You are not a bad bunny for treating yourself to a manicure or a pedicure at Heber Nail Spa. Self-care approved!

Insider tip for April: The “Funny Bunny” by OPI Gel nail color is an excellent color for the season and is a signature neutral go-to color all year around!

Midway Bakery: Got Buns, Hun?

After talking about bunnies—you all have me thinking of one of the most amazing local bakeries for buns! Those iconic sticky buns are found at a local spot called Midway Bakery. Locals adore these frosted buns—so much so that you may even have to queue up just to get your special treat. So, if you are the bunny in the “doghouse,” make sure you run and get some of the buns for your hun. The flavored buns will for sure get you out of a “sticky” situation. Don’t believe me? Go to @midwaybakery_utah to see all of the sticky buns and fun.

Z’s Restaurant: Spot That Bunny

Want a photo with the bunny? You will get a legit picture with the bunny at this location—as long as your kid loves rabbits, it’s a Christmas-cardworthy spot for photos! Z’s Restaurant at the Zermatt Hotel is a win for all. Hop over to the all-you-can-eat buffet on Easter Sunday to meet the Bunny himself. It is rumored that they put the youngest worker into the bunny costume on this special day. Whoever the bunny is—that person is doing a fantastic job hopping through the restaurant, doing photo ops, and delivering eggs to all the young kids in the restaurant. Enjoy an allinclusive buffet that runs from brunch to dinner. Don’t forget to tip that bunny—making all those hops is hard!

Flower Bar Co.: Bunny’s Garden

We all know that bunnies love to prance around in gardens. No, this is not Mr. McGregor’s garden—because you will not be kicked out. They show great love and compassion for people who need a floral arrangement on the fly. Local manager Angie can whip you up a floral arrangement upon walking into the store and understands that some people are scrambling to gather a floral arrangement for a day-of event. She saved me when I was in a pickle and needed a last-minute floral arrangement for my Rotary group. If required, Easter-themed arrangements are available for pre-order, grab-and-go, and custom-made on the same day. You need not worry about having empty hands when you go to a party; the floral business almost always has arrangements for you to select from.

High Valley Transit: Hopper

Here is a real reason to live in Heber Valley. You have free transportation services available for you to hop around town. How many other states can claim that? Their slogan is this: “Whether you’re visiting, commuting, running errands, or exploring, we’ll get you there—easy and free.” My grandma has always told me she wants someone to drive her around; “Driving Miss Daisy” is how she refers to it. It is a huge perk that you can move around town for free in our wonderful county. If you are down a car, have multiple stops to make in the day, or just want to be driven around like my grandma, this bunny-hopper even has a hotline to call to arrange a pickup time. Do not miss out on this exclusive hopper transportation available to the local community! Find out more details here: https:// www.hvtutah.gov/

My Mini Pony Party and Pets: Fluffy

Hardcore animal lovers will be happy that the bunny can come directly to your home. My Mini Pony Party provides a complete party package of animals that can come right to you. From giant pigs to delicate live bunnies, your kids will enjoy a day with the animals while you host a home celebration. I have to say, when I threw a party at home for my daughter’s 3rd birthday last year, I think I was enjoying myself the most, sitting next to a live big-boy pig, whom we nicknamed Bacon…hmm, I might be the BAD bunny in this story.

Dollar Tree: The EggSqueeze Me…I’m Here Early

Do not underestimate the treats you will find at our local Dollar Tree store next door to the Walmart in Heber. This place stocks miscellaneous items for every kind of holiday. Let’s say you have to buy treats for everyone in your kid's class (30+ people): That is a ton of kids! This store is an excellent resource for holiday treat gifting—saves and faves. The other day, I found a boba-tea-flavored lip gloss perfect for mini gifting during the Chinese New Year. While you may not see the same items every time at this store, typically you can expect the store to have a themed section in the front, based on the time of year.

A key tip for shopping at here is thinking ahead—make sure that if you want to buy a memorable holiday gift, you are looking 1–2 months in advance. For example, Dollar Tree begins showcasing valentine’s items in January and reset the store for St. Patty’s in February…a clever bunny thinks ahead!

As Quoted From Peter Rabbit

“A good rabbit never gives up.” You can always find resources to help you out in this town. Do not feel overwhelmed during the holidays; local providers are ready to help you during the spring season!

BY TIFFANY WICKES PHOTOS COURTESY OF JENNIFER BARNES

PrimaryBallet,EnPointe

How a Local Ballet Studio Is Shaping the Future of Dance and Character in the Heber Valley Community

I stood in the lineup of perfectly curated and aesthetic ballerinas. Cinched waists, long, lean legs, and hair pulled back and slicked into impeccable buns. At 24 years old, I was clearly out of place among a sea of teenage prima-ballerinas, but perhaps just as starry-eyed as the trained-up-sincetoddlerhood dancers who surrounded me. I suspected that I was at an age disadvantage in the discipline of ballet, but I firmly believed that with enough hard work, heart, and practice, I too could become a company ballerina. This fantasy quickly turned into a humiliating nightmare when the creative director approached my not-so-lean and not-so-perfectly designed silhouette, stood with his turned-up nose inches from mine, and whispered rather aggressively, which could have been confused with a soft yell, “Why are you here?”

Confusingly, I glanced around the room at the other dancers—who remained perfectly still, eyes staring straight ahead like soldiers in formation—looking for camaraderie but finding only deafening silence. “Because I want to be a professional dancer?” I replied, sheepishly, and with a tone that sounded more like I was requiring his approval than a statement of my firm intention. “Hahahaha!” he laughed heartily, tauntingly and demeaningly. “It takes 20 years to make a ballerina; you’re about 15 years too late. Stop wasting your time and mine.” He sneered as he about-faced and marched off to teach his more-worthy cadets of becoming a company of well-trained and perfectly executed showtime-ready ballerinas. I raced toward the door of the studio, tripped on the strap of my bag, and ran as fast as I could to my car, leaving the trailing voices of laughter behind me forever.

Fast-forward 20 years, I arrive in Utah with my own starry-eyed little girls, perfectly aged for the decades-long training to become ballerinas. For months, they had been asking to learn ballet—which meant for months, the pain of my demoralizing ballet experience had me coming up with a plethora of excuses as to why they couldn’t. Until one day, my beautiful girls happened to mention ballet to a new friend, who excitedly offered, “Oh! You have to take them to Primary Ballet! Erin is so amazing with the girls.”

Amazing? That wasn’t my experience with ballet. But maybe my experience didn’t have to be theirs. Maybe there’s someone who trains dancers to have strong, beautiful ballet technique by teaching concepts and skills appropriate for each dancers’ physical and mental readiness, all the while striving for a culture of hard work, as well as joy sans ridicule and judgment? Could they become great dancers and, more importantly, become great people taught by other great people? The real question that flooded my mind was this: Can ballet be taught in a holistic and healthy way?

Meet Erin Malan, owner and head instructor at Primary Ballet. Erin fell in love with ballet when her mom took her to her first performance at the age of five. She received her early training at Jacqueline’s School of Ballet in American Fork, Utah, and went on to dance professionally for Utah Metropolitan Ballet.

During her time with the company, Erin performed corps de ballet and solo roles in numerous full-length classical productions, including Romeo and Juliet, Cinderella, Coppelia, The Nutcracker, Legend of Timpanogos,

La Coquette, Twelve Dancing Princesses, and Hansel and Gretel, as well as more contemporary ballets like George Balanchine’s Serenade. In 2006, Erin earned her Bachelor of Arts in Dance, with a ballet emphasis, from Brigham Young University. While at BYU, she received several talent scholarships and performed and toured with the top company—Theatre Ballet—where she was featured in principal roles, including Raymonda and Snow Queen. She went on to earn her Master of Fine Arts in Ballet Teaching and Choreography from the University of Utah in 2008, focusing on contemporary ballet choreography.

Erin’s teaching résumé is vast and includes studios in Utah, the Midwest (most notably The Joffrey Academy of Dance in Chicago), and the Atlanta area. She has also served on faculty at BYU, Emory University, and Utah Valley University. She has taught pre-ballet all the way up to advanced technique classes for professional-level dancers. Erin is an award-winning choreographer (she won first place at Choreography Design Project, Utah Metropolitan Ballet) and has created works performed at UVU, BYU, and several recitals. Last spring, Erin produced a small story ballet, Hansel and Gretel, in which all Primary Ballet students were able to perform. Work on this spring’s production, Alice in Wonderland, is underway.

Erin continues to prioritize her own learning about best practices in regards to teaching ballet and embodied movement. She has completed two Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet Teacher’s Workshops with Marcia Dale Weary and Darla Hoover; is certified in Progressing Ballet Technique; has completed several Stott Pilates training programs; and is a certified yoga teacher. “I have loved the artform of ballet for as long as I can remember, but cultural aspects of ballet training have been a struggle [as they are for many],” she says. She recalls her early training years, during which she studied ballet rigorously, danced professionally, and taught at prestigious ballet schools and universities, but it wasn’t until August of 2023 that she took interest in starting her own studio.

“The dream was born to create a program that teaches excellent ballet

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technique in a nurturing environment, one that does not overstress kids or families but rather holds space for a well-rounded life,” says Erin. And this has been her focus for nearly two years since the studio opened. “The investment I feel in the kids’ success is immense! In addition to students learning to stand taller, turn out, and point their feet more, they also gain a stronger sense of grace and discipline,” Erin asserts. “My biggest hope is to help students understand that when they focus and work hard, they are capable of doing beautiful, difficult things—in the ballet studio and without.”

During Erin’s training and performing years, she was constantly worried about what artistic directors, teachers, and choreographers thought about her; others’ opinions of how her body looked and moved seemed to be the most important thing in the world. Ballet can often end up just being about external validation for a dancer and less about how you feel about yourself—when what you look like on the outside is the most important thing, which can create issues in the culture of ballet.

“How you look can get pretty specific,” Erin adds. “It is important to learn proper technique so you can execute steps successfully, but having high legs and a very specific body type shouldn’t be all that matters.” Erin’s experiences in the ballet world across three decades have led her to categorize ballet schools in two ways. First, studios that focus on pre-professional training, where dancers develop wonderful technical abilities but are often overstressed by the demanding pressure, time constraints, and body expectations put on them; and second, studios that provide more fun, less-pressurized environments, but where the ballet technique is often not well-developed. Erin’s goal is to take the best of both worlds by teaching excellent ballet technique without the heavy pressures, where kids learn to shine with confidence through the beauty of ballet.

“There’s a quote that helped me see the potential that teaching good ballet technique—in a positive environment—can have: ‘To know the real truth about anything is to know the real truth about everything,’ so if you believe in things that we learn in the ballet studio, such as hard work, attention to detail, discipline, and responsibility, these qualities are going to help kids in all areas of their lives.” And helping kids develop into solid, productive people is at the heart of Erin’s mission at Primary Ballet. She is excited to use her knowledge, experience, and love for dance and education, to build a ballet program done her way—lovingly, supportively, and richly, with proper ballet technique here in Heber Valley.

I am proud to be a parent of two tiny dancers developing their bodies, minds, and artistic ability under Erin’s tender example. It’s clear that this space is more than just a place to learn technique—it’s a community where dancers of all levels can find inspiration, challenge, and camaraderie. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just taking your first plié, the studio promises to be a welcoming and enriching environment. With a fresh perspective on dance and a commitment to fostering artistic growth, it’s no wonder that the buzz around Primary ballet is building. So, if you’re ready to step into a world of grace, discipline, and creativity, now’s the perfect time to tie up your ballet slippers and join the movement at Primary Ballet.

You’re Not as Original as You Think “UNPRECEDENTED” IS A MATTER

Since becoming a professional writer in 2013, I’ve used the word “cutting edge” in 660 drafts, “unprecedented” in 302, “novel” in 227, and “groundbreaking” in 85. Looking back, I usually didn’t mean those words or want to use them. When you’re a ghostwriter, though, sometimes you give the client what they want. And what did the client want?

To be the first and only. To have everyone believe they had “redefined” or “transformed” an industry. To be original in thought and deed. Because if whatever they offer isn’t cutting edge, unprecedented, novel, or groundbreaking, that means someone else has done it and can do it. And if those conditions are true, then investors must question why they gave that not-cutting-edge startup $10 million, or why they should give another $20 million.

For my clients, this pining for originality often crept beyond the work of building and differentiating a company. Many became convinced that their daily routine was special; that their advice to other founders was unique; that their take on macroeconomic events was one of a kind; that everything they thought and did merited attention. As these thoughts became intertwined with their identity, reputation, and self-worth, many lost the willingness to question themselves or be questioned.

Admittedly, my partners in the PR industry and I encouraged this. When brainstorming op-eds with clients, I often had to interrupt. “I’ve heard this argument many times before,” I’d say. “If you want this published, you need to say something new and different about this topic.”

OF SEMANTICS

New and different don’t necessarily mean good. The mistake was to equate originality with quality.

Just because it hasn’t been done, that doesn’t mean it represents progress and improvement. Ever been to a modern art museum where there is a canvas painted one solid color? Or seen a Sundance film that got extra weird? Originality didn’t make it any more meaningful or interesting.

For the most part, our thoughts, problems, and aspirations aren’t original. Our words and ideas aren’t original. Our ideas for startups, ads, TV shows, restaurants, and movies aren’t original. Chances are, someone else has experienced it, said it, thought it, and maybe done it. That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t strive to be original. It means we should do so with humility and perspective.

Read history and you will run into people, places, and challenges that sound familiar. Nerd alert: I’ve been reading A Distant Mirror: The Calamitous 14th Century, a history by Barbara Tuchman focused on France. It’s foreign in some ways, familiar in others.

The 14th century French debated the origins of a pandemic, the Black Death, and how to counter it. Like present-day warlords in failed states, knights plundered and extorted peasants and ransomed captured opponents for profit while professing their commitment to higher values. Fashion trends and the pressure to keep up appearances led nobles to make terrible financial decisions. And like many disillusioned people today, the French often questioned organized religion and tried to find spiritual meaning outside of it. Different century, same stuff. Human beings fear death, crave power, and succumb to

vanity wherever you go in written history. If we want, though, we can qualify any idea or event to a point where it becomes original and unprecedented. It just takes semantic gymnastics.

We do this with records. In the 18th and 19th century, you could be the first person to climb a peak. No one summited the Matterhorn until 1865 or Mt. Everest until 1953. Yet between the Guinness Book of World Records and Wikipedia, there are hundreds more records related to Mt. Everest. Does “First astronaut to summit Everest” add anything? Why didn’t the first proctologist or taxidermist get recognition?

After the first solo skydiver jumped over Everest in 2008, I don’t think anyone needed to recognize the first German who did it two years later or the first Argentinian who did it eight years later. Germanness and Argentinianness don’t change the nature of the feat.

A difference doesn’t always make a difference. In framing everything as original and unprecedented, we risk overlooking things that are meaningly different and that do change everything.

The 14th century wasn’t that materially different from the prior 5,000 years. But if you lived between 1875 and 1925, everything did change. Among other things, the lightbulb, toilet paper, machine gun, automobile, zipper, movie camera, vacuum cleaner, air conditioner, tractor, airplane, and radio were all invented in those 50 years. Those were unprecedented. But a former client’s app for scalping tickets or an 800-word blog on how to “ideate” startup ideas—not so much.

© Best Version Media

MONDAYS

Books & Babies • 10:30 a.m.

Toddler Play Time • 11:00 a.m.

1st Monday of the Month

Crafternoon

Ages 6-12 • 3:30-4:30 p.m.

2nd Monday of the Month Pokémon Club

Ages 6-12 • 3:30-4:30 p.m.

3rd Monday of the Month

STEM with local 4H Club

Ages 6-12 • 3:30-4:30 p.m.

4th Monday of the Month

Lego Club

All ages • 3:30-4:30 p.m.

TUESDAYS

Preschool Storytime • 10:30a.m.

Snack Shack

Teens, Tweens, Kids and adults can grab some snacks afterschool 2:30- 4:00 p.m.

Hora Del Cuento

Spanish Story with Miss Linda 6:30 p.m.

2nd Tuesday of the Month

Try Something Tuesday

Experience something new or just come and learn something new. RSVP is recommended for most programs. Geared for adults. 6:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY

Preschool Storytime • 10:30a.m.

Chess Club

All ages welcome! • 3-5 p.m.

THURSDAYS

Minecraft CLUB

Session 1: 2-3:30 p.m.

Session 2: 3:30-5 p.m.

Snack Shack

Teens, Tweens, Kids and adults can grab some snacks afterschool 2:30 p.m.-4:00 p.m.

1st Thursday of the Month

Kids Book Club

Ages 7-9 • 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

3rd Thursday of the Month Morning Book Club

“Dancing at the Rascal Fair” by Ivan Doig

All ages welcome • 10:30 a.m.

Evening Book Club

“All Creatures Great and Small” By James Herriot

All ages welcome • 6:30 p.m.

FRIDAYS

4th Friday of the Month Movie Night

Time: 6: 00 p.m.

A different family friendly movie. Tentative Schedule and is subject to change.

April • “Moana 2”

May • “The Mitchell’s vs the Machine” June • “Dog Man”

April 18th and May 23rd

Team Puzzle Races

Race to complete a 300-piece puzzle first with your team of 3. Sign up as an individual and we will try to match you with a team. All ages are encouraged. 10:30 a.m.

RAD IN THE WASATCH

BIG AIR

5-time X Games Gold

Medalist and Olympic medalist freestyle skier, Colby Stevenson, never stops reaching higher.

He’s 20 feet in the air working his way through a massive 1440 (a combination of head-over-heels flips and sideways twists), in a gravitydefying stunt that will earn him a silver medal at the FIS World Cup at Mammoth Mountain in February 2024. It will be Colby Stevenson’s 11th FIS World Cup podium win.

“As soon as I could walk, my parents had me in ski boots,” says Colby. “I’d click in and shuffle around the carpet.” At 14 months, he was skiing down the driveway and by the time he was 6, he was on a ski team doing back flips. “I built a ski jump a short hike away from the race run at The Canyons,” he says. “Someone had taught me how to do a backflip on a trampoline that summer, so I wanted to see if I could do it on skis.” He landed it, and it catapulted him into a career.

His parents, Bobby and Carol, are avid skiers and moved to Park City in 2001 when Colby was 4. “My dad is a pilot and my mom is a flight attendant,” he says. “They wanted to be in a mountain town that was close to an airport.” He grew up flying—in an airplane or by his own locomotion.

“I’ve always loved jumping off stuff—I started vaulting off the balcony onto the couch. It’s a switch in me; I like to jump,” he says. “Skiing is my outlet. The better I get, the more comfortable I get. As long as there is something steep to land on, there’s no fear.”

But that wasn’t always the case. After winning an impressive array of freestyle skiing awards and touring the globe with the U.S. FK Pro

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Slopestyle team for two years, his career almost ended. He guzzled three shots of espresso and started the 12-hour drive home from Mount Hood after a freestyle competition. He and his friend Michael Fabrizi (who had broken his leg at the ski event) made it to Idaho before Colby fell asleep and rolled the Ford Ranger. His skull was fractured into 48 pieces. Although he was lucky to be alive, he suffered a traumatic brain injury, and doctors didn’t know how that would affect his cognitive or motor functions.

“For so long after, I thought it was all over,” he said. “I couldn’t live with myself. I was so depressed; I thought I had ruined my life over one big mistake.” He slowly regained strength. One day, he rode his bike—and found his balance. “I thought, OK, it’s not over,” he said. “I felt I had two options. I could either stay in a state of full depression or have hope and faith and determination and keep pursuing my dreams. I decided to heal. Now, I can help spread the message of light.”

Just eight months later, in 2017, he won his first World Cup in Italy. “I wasn’t 100%, I was still weak and recovering,” he says. “I felt the power of my mind propelling past the physical state. The frequencies were running again, I felt like I tapped into a spiritual power I didn’t know I had before.” And that power just keeps getting stronger.

Since then, he’s won 5 X Games Gold Medals: the first two as a rookie in 2020: the Aspen Ski Slopestyle and the Knuckle Huck, followed by another Slopestyle in 2023, a second Knuckle Huck in 2024, and an Aspen Ski Street Style in 2025. He won the silver medal in the slopestyle event at the FIS Freestyle Ski and Snowboarding World Championships in 2021 and the silver medal in Men's Freestyle Skiing at the 2022 Beijing Olympics. And, he was crowned winner of the Kings & Queens of Corbet’s Couloir in Jackson Hole, Wyoming in 2023. Last November, he won the first World Cup of the winter in Austria.

He’s also been featured in several film segments. In 2024, he starred in his first solo film project, Proof, directed and filmed by childhood friends Justin Mayers and Jack Francis. “I had just been voted 2023 Skier of The Year for my video part in Good Company’s Crescendo,” he says. “So, my sponsors gave me some money for the project. We had a tight schedule—I was juggling competing and filming at the same time. But it was so much fun.”

The film started in Utah. “Two weeks into filming along the Wasatch Front, I crashed,” he said. “It was Valentine’s Day and I missed the landing of a big gap. I thought I broke my neck. So, we called it the Valentine’s Gap.” The whole project came to a standstill as he took time off to heal. After a couple of weeks, the crew traveled to Wyoming, then Alaska. But six weeks later in March, they returned to the Valentine Gap where he rebuilt the jump and took another shot at it. He landed it. “It’s the final scene in Proof,” he says. “The triumphant moment is lit to David Bowie’s, Space Oddity.”

Over FaceTime, he shows me the sauna and ice bath in his Airbnb in Switzerland where he’s competing in qualifiers for the World Cup. He’s just landed after a stint in Japan. “I indulged in the culture, the amazing food, onsen bath houses and hot pools,” he says. “Competing is fun and hectic and demanding on your body and mind,” he says. “So, I’m staying focused and eating well—taking turns cooking meals with my teammates. We just made an omelet with 26 eggs,” he smiles.

His AirPods are filled with reggae and hip hop with a smattering of classic rock to keep him motivated. As for his next trick? You’ll just have to wait and see. But to catch a glimpse of him, remember to look up.

© Best Version Media

© Best Version Media

KIRSTEN KOHLWEY

BY DANA KLEIN

Daniel & Isaac Olsen Bladesmiths MAKERS SERIES:

Daniel Olsen forged his first knife at the age of 14 after his family took a trip from Battle Mountain to Salt Lake City. At the time, he was inspired by stories of early America and the pioneers, so when they visited This Is The Place Heritage Park, Daniel talked to the blacksmith for several hours. At one point, Daniel said, “I wish I could do this.” The blacksmith replied, “Why not,” and proceeded to tell him how. When Daniel got back to Nevada, he dug a hole, filled it with charcoal, used his mom’s hair dryer as bellows, along with a small section of railroad track as anvil, to make a knife out of an old carriage bolt using a borrowed hammer and a pair of pliers. That was more than 30 years ago.

Both of Daniel’s parents were teachers. Through their encouragement and the assistance of the town’s librarian, he was able to gather enough information to continue his journey in knifemaking. Daniel kept making knives until his early twenties, which is when people started noticing his work. He has been making and selling high-quality custom knives ever since.

When the TV series Forged in Fire on the History Channel started in 2015, people realized that handmade knives were not a thing of the past. Daniel’s knives grew in popularity; then, in 2024, Daniel’s son, Isaac, joined him in his custom-knife business. Currently, they have a one-year waiting period, from creating blueprints through customer approval to creating the finished knife. They are working on a line of production knives involving repeatable processes and technology to increase efficiency while maintaining handmade quality. The father-son team likes making memorial knives, so they make videos along the way to document the creation process. Daniel likes saying, “A well-made knife can be a vehicle and anchor point for memories.”

Daniel and Isaac use mostly high-carbon steel, including 52100 ball-bearing steel or a combination of 15N20 and a 10-series steel for their Damascus blades. They also use unusual materials, such as pioneer-era wagon wheels, ski-lift cables, and old farrier rasps. With their proprietary heat-treating processes, the knives are guaranteed to perform at the peak of the material’s function. They create chef’s knives, hunting knives, filet knives, swords, and specialty knives when requested.

With Daniel’s pre-1900s knowledge on making knives, and Isaac’s specialty in modern skills—such as building computers, CNC, 3D printing, and machining—they complement each other well. They have created some intricate custom knives; an example of one would be a blade that features a river running through a canyon on a topographic map. Their chef’s knives have been ordered by chefs all over the country. When designing a new knife, 3D printing allows them to get a feel for the knife but is not used in the actual making of the knife. For the handles, they choose the material as much for its functionality as for its beauty. Natural stabilized woods, like mountain mahogany, are a favorite. However, they have created custom handles incorporating items ranging from duffelbag handles to silver quarters, and to rare materials including iron meteorite, mammoth tusk ivory, and even dinosaur gem bone.

Daniel also teaches knife- and swordmaking, and traditional skill classes such as basket weaving, as well as those on edible and medicinal plants. In partnership with Wilderness Wild Survival School, he teaches a four-day course. On the first day, the students learn to forge a knife, and during the next three days, they learn how to survive with that knife in a wilderness setting. “I do my best to remove as many opportunities for failure as possible,” says Daniel. “A well-made knife should last for generations.”

PHOTOS

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Mark Granger MUSIC SERIES:

Mark Granger has been weaving his journey as a singer-songwriter for more than 25 years. Ever since he picked up a guitar and strummed his first chords, his career has evolved naturally through serendipitous moments and opportunities.

Mark’s first public performance took place at an open-mic night at Club Suede in Park City, where he received enormous support from the more seasoned musicians at the club. The second night he showed up to play, the audio technician wasn’t there. The owner showed Mark how to operate the sound board and encouraged him to run the show. This experience ignited his passion for sharing music and connecting with others through it.

At a later performance, a local elementary school teacher asked Mark if he could teach two fourth graders to play guitar. This experience sparked a lifelong commitment to teaching. Over the past 25 years, Mark has developed his own way of teaching music theory using a visual and emotion-based approach to make learning accessible and enjoyable. He encourages people to embrace music as a path to emotional wellness, self-expression, and a deeper connection to the rhythms of life.

Mark moved to Portland, Oregon, in 2014, where he continued writing songs and joined Swoon, a seven-member band of close friends. The group, including five songwriters and instrumentalists, explored a wide variety of musical styles until they disbanded in February 2020, due to the pandemic.

In December 2021, Mark received a gift certificate to learn how to make a flute, with which he crafted his first bamboo flute. Mark’s neighbor saw the flute and gave him black walnut and cedarwood to build more flutes. Around that time, he was also given access to a woodworking workshop, with wood and the tools to make more flutes. His interest in traditional instruments deepened further as he apprenticed in drum making. Today, he blends technical skill with spiritual insight, creating instruments that honor the ancient art of music as medicine.

In September 2024, Mark moved back to Utah, settling in Marion. He has since performed at Après Pendry and Snow Park Lodge through Mountain Town Music and has led a drum-making workshop in Kamas. He continues teaching students to play the flute and the guitar and has expanded his offerings, with workshops focusing on the sacred art of drum making, two different flute series, and an alternative and approachable method to understanding music theory.

Mark’s background as an arborist, taking care of and pruning trees up to 200 feet tall in Portland, reflects his deep connection to trees and woodworking. Now, he has stepped away from tree care and concentrates on helping his students find their voice, saying, “My goal is to open the door to musical fluency, so you can take your instrument and just sing.”

You can contact Mark Granger at (503) 962-0921 or markgranger@ gmail.com to sign up for workshops and lessons, as well as request performances.

PHOTOS

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WASATCH WASPS SPORTS APR. 2025

SOFTBALL

Apr

BOYS SOCCER

Apr 15

Apr 17 Wasatch @ Salem Hills

Apr 18 Viewmont @ Wasatch

Apr 22

Apr

May

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GIRLS LACROSSE

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BOYS VOLLEYBALL

Apr

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BASEBALL

Apr 24

3:30 pm JV 5:15

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JV 5:15

Apr 25 @ Orem Var 3:30 pm JV 5:15 pm Apr 29 Vs Orem Var 3:30 pm JV 5:15 pm May 01 Vs Cedar Valley Var 3:30 pm JV 5:15 pm

May 02 @ Cedar Valley Var 3:30 pm JV 5:15 pm

May 05 @ Salem Hills Var 3:30 pm JV 5:15 pm

May 06 Vs Salem Hills Var 3:30 pm JV 5:15 pm

BY ERIC RAMIREZ

DEREK THOMSON, TRAIL BUILDER

Under the scorching July sun, Derek Thomson steps out of his excavator and looks back down the length of trail he has roughly cut, root balls to one side and rocks hewn to more desirable places. Derek is a professional mountain-bike trail builder, the kind of guy you want for the job. He steps back into the excavator after a drink of water and fires it up. One may wonder, “What truly goes into building a trail?”

“I like to be creative with the way I ride my bike, always looking at whatever isn’t the main line and incorporating that into how I build trails,” Derek says.

IT IS NO QUICK PROCESS.

He owns and operates Apex Trail Construction, LLC, and for years he has been carting his mini-excavator and other tools across the US. Some of you might have ridden trails he’s built, whether working under his own company or employed by another.

Road to Arcylon, Dead Reckoning, High Star Ranch trail system, and Change Reaction are just a few local trails he built, along with many others across Utah.

Have you gone on a ride at Galena Lodge, north of Ketchum, Idaho? Or Deadline in Snow Mass, Colorado? Or Bentonville, Arkansas? He’s been there, in some places for months at a time, painting fun ribbons in the forest, at an average pace of a mile per month.

BACKYARD JUMPS

It feels like a lifetime ago when my friends and I were bored one night in Park City. It was winter, and we gathered a few more people and jumped our bikes over snow piles along Park Avenue and near Park City Mountain’s ice-skating rink.

Before any of us knew it, riding took a new turn in Park City. Mountain Trails Foundation was building trails all over the old hills, which were once filled with mining ruins. While Deer Valley

Whether it’s a deep tissue massage, pedicure, or a Sanctuary Signature Stretch with CBD, we hope you’ll feel relaxed and refreshed from the moment you walk in the door. Please feel free to book your appointment online or call the spa directly at 435-315-3573. We look forward to seeing you soon!

had adopted the bike-park concept long ago, Park City Mountain Resort had not fully embraced true chairlift access, and there were no dirt jumps anywhere in town to raise the skill. Derek’s backyard became that spot. For a moment in time, that’s where the jumps were. “My parents were psyched that we’d all be at the house, totally digging holes and stacking dirt. It was so cool, such a fun time. What inspired it was us wanting to do stuff outside,

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wanting to ride bikes with my friends,” Derek says, some 25 years later.

HIS OWN BRAND

His quest to ride bikes a certain way, with some air, some style, playing on two wheels down the trail, led him to build jumps elsewhere. I have watched him carefully pack dirt on Park City’s jumps near the fire station. One day, he answered his phone while operating his excavator. He continued his career path, then, in 2018, he formed his own operation.

“My first project [as Apex] was with Harriman Trails Committee. That was about eight miles of trail. Dan Black with Surface Trail Design helped me with that quite a bit,” Derek says.

There’s much more to cutting trail than operating a mini-excavator. Derek has friendly competition within a niche group of professionals, and many of them ride bikes together. They tend to build each other up and respect one another’s perspectives on trail maintenance and development.

When they bid on trail projects, whether on private land, for a trails organization, or on those that are government-funded, each trail builder has plenty of consulting involved. Derek explains, “It starts with whoever the land manager is, or whoever has the idea of building the trail. Then they identify the intended purpose, figure out how to fund it, whose land it’s on, get permissions, and then actually get money for it. Finally, they work on hiring someone to build it.”

For government-funded work, there’s often a 65-page Response for Proposals (RFP), but it includes all the details. Derek says, “It’s upfront and a very fair bidding process. Then three to ten trail contractors will throw their hat in the ring, for example.”

While there are nuances to securing a trail contract, construction still asks much in the way of tools, blood, sweat, and frustration.

While building a trail in southern Utah, Derek recounts, “I had a very hard-to-get-to hydraulic

line break in the field, miles away from the truck. It was another 15 to 20 miles away from Kanab, where we could get a hydraulic line made. We were on that hillside until 11:00 one night, wearing headlamps, fishing this line through the middle of the excavator.”

STEWARDSHIP AND MAINTENANCE

Since there are limited pros servicing and building trails, it falls on volunteers to do some maintenance. Wasatch Mountain State Park has adopted a “trail pod” program. A couple of tools hang from the metal tripod, which Derek is fully behind. “I think it's great, and I think that those should exist everywhere.”

“Grab the loppers or handsaw and cut anything or trim anything that will hit you in the face or hands, like branches. And trim anything that obstructs your line of sight,” Derek advises. “We have built a lot of trail but now need to refocus on keeping them up.”

The trails that a builder cuts and creatively sculpts finally must leave for the next project. We, the mountain bikers, the hikers, the runners—we all become trail stewards. With guidance from trails organizations, we can learn to keep the trails. If we love to ride, we need to learn to love the work.

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ATHLETE OF THE MONTH: RISING STAR

LizEden

Every month I have the honor of finding and spotlighting a youth athlete in our community. This column gives me an opportunity to meet some of the most insightful and hardworking youths that, very simply, inspire me. They are dedicated to not only their sport but the message of their life. I can see how much they have put in, sometimes with little to come out, and yet they still continue. This immense love of sport is something that, every month, I have a hard time summing up in a few hundred words. These young humans are all around us trying their best, having fun, and blowing through expectations with their accomplishments.

One of these young humans happens to be an old family friend and neighbor of mine who is excelling in alpine ski racing. I have always known her, outside of sports, as a person with an overflowing bubbly personality that makes you smile within a moment of connection. I remember her in the neighborhood as an adventurous, playful, and full-of-love little girl who had everyone's best interest at heart. But when I was looking for athletes, her name wasn’t on the radar because her humbleness hid her list of accomplishments. Yet, her achievements were too striking to be fully unrecognized. When my friend overheard some classmates talking about a young star she relayed her name to me. That’s when I realized that this neighbor, filled with positivity, was perfect for this month's issue.

Meet Liz Eden, a 14-year-old alpine ski prodigy living in Park City. Her career started like many, learning to ski before she can remember, with her parents. It began as a family-orientated sport, as a way for the family to connect outside a busy life by taking a moment to enjoy the outdoors. As she progressed as a little one she began participating in a few non-competitive teams to improve her overall skiing. But it wasn’t until the age of 6 that Liz began competitively alpine racing. She first fell in love with the social aspect of the sport, as it gave her a group of friends with similar interests and a competitive drive to excel. When Liz was 7 or 8 years old she began working with Alan Schoenberger at Ski Studio. There, she practiced her technique on a revolving carpet to simulate ski racing. As she improved her technique, she explains that she started finding a “flow state” where the turns blend together into a systematic flow without thought. This feeling, which drew her in––in combination with a supportive community and the inspiration of older athletes––propelled Liz to continue her dedication to ski racing through elementary school. This year, to be able to continue her busy winter schedule, Liz transferred to the Winter School. She completed the first part of her 8th-grade year at Treasure Mountain Jr High and will skip directly to 9th grade this spring. She hopes that by having school during the summer, instead of during the winter, she will be able to have a more dedicated training regime and attend additional races without having to manage missing school.

A large part of ski racing, Liz explains, is being able to control “the controllables.” These can be simple parts of race day, from breakfast to getting to the race on time, but can also include the larger mental challenges, like how to manage nerves or recover from mistakes on course. During our interview, Liz talked me through her general race day prep and how it can help mitigate the simple and complex issues that might arise on race day. Two hours before

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“I’ve worked with Liz since age six and immediately recognized she is a gifted athlete. But it doesn’t stop there. She listens carefully, works hard to make a change, and is ok repeating the new movement pattern ad nauseam. She is truly a dream athlete to work with.”

Alan Schoenberger, Coach, Ski Studio.

a race, Liz is trying not to dwell on the upcoming competition, she hangs out with friends and makes sure her body is properly fueled. About an hour before, she begins her inspection of the course, working hard to memorize the entire thing. Once she gets back into the pit, she tries to keep her body and mind loose. Ten minutes before the race starts, she begins a quick dynamic warmup and starts thinking about what is coming. When she is one person away from starting, she goes over the memorized course and visualizes it all going perfectly. Once Liz’s legs hit the gate, every thought leaves. The cue goes off, and she starts. Now, it is just her, the rhythm of the turns, and a blur of speed. In a perfect race, this moment would continue almost endlessly, before returning to reality at the end of the run, but almost always, this perfect run does not happen. There is a slip-up, a lost edge, and sometimes a race-ending crash. Liz hopes to minimize these and be ready to bounce back when they inevitably happen. If a minor mistake happens on the course, her first step is to

assess and respond accurately. Her automatic movements must pause while she actively shifts to fix the problem, and once she is back in tempo, the flow takes over once again. If something major were to happen, such as a crash, her first step is to ensure the safety of incoming racers by moving quickly off of the course. On her way back down to the pit, it is hard to not let emotions of anger or disappointment creep in. But once jackets are on, she tries not to let negative thoughts take over by reminding herself that this one race is not the end of the world, and simply one of many stepping stones. For the rest of the day, she prioritizes being there for her friends, celebrating their wins, and being a good sport.

But part of racing is being able to turn a run with a minor mistake, into a podium finish. This first comes with reacting quickly and effectively to minimize the chance of a crash. Then, one must be able to shift the focus back to the drive to finish the run. From my understanding, what makes Liz so

successful, is in part her ability to recover from these mistakes. Just this season, her worst result is a second-place finish, with the rest putting her on top of the podium. Last year, she qualified for the Whistler Cup which brings international athletes where only 6 girls of U14 in the Western Region qualify. Liz qualified 3rd as a first-year U14. There, her first slalom run placed her in 3rd with a 1.5-second leading time, and her first GS run put her in 5th. Last season, Liz had also placed 3rd at the Open Slalom against U16 at Seannurse and was in the top 15 for the Super G in both races. At Jackson Hole Proper, she placed 6th in Super G at West Barren, only 0.01 seconds away from 5th. Liz’s dedication to sport can be seen in her accomplishments, but what isn’t seen is what I mentioned earlier. Her immense love, kindness, and constant positive attitude to where she is now. And personally, that’s what I think makes her successful, in and out of sport. From a neighbor to a rising star, Liz Eden is a young human to look up to.

YOUTH ACHIEVER CORNER

SPONSORED BY BLACK DIAMOND GYMNASTICS

ATHLETE OF THE MONTH BY

JESSICA DAVIS

ATHLETE LEADER OF THE MONTH

HarlowVerbaas

Discipline: Trampoline & Tumbling Team • Age: 15

Favorite Quote: “Just be yourself, there is no one better.” - Taylor swift

At Black Diamond Gymnastics, we are proud to highlight Harlow as our Athlete Leader of the Month! A dedicated and hardworking athlete, Harlow embodies the power of multi-sport training, using her skills in trampoline & tumbling (T&T) to elevate her figure skating performance.

Harlow has been on the ice since she was just three years. A dedicated skater, she trains five days a week before school. In 2020, she started tumbling at Black Diamond, and after encouragement from her figure skating friends, she joined the T&T competition team. Her goal was to improve her tumbling while learning trampoline and double mini, and she quickly found that T&T was not only fun but also a valuable tool for crosstraining.

Through her dedication to both sports, Harlow has gained strength, flexibility, and balance, all of which have enhanced her performance on the ice. Beyond the physical benefits, T&T has also made her a more confident competitor, preparing her for high-pressure moments in both gymnastics and figure skating.

One of Harlow’s tumbling goals was to make the Park City High School cheer team—and she did just that as a freshman! She had an incredible year cheering for her school, all while maintaining her rigorous athletic schedule.

Outside of the gym and off the ice, Harlow is just as impressive. She excels even with a challenging academic course load, maintaining straight A’s, and actively volunteering at local schools and nonprofits.

With cheer tryouts, T&T competitions, and figure skating events all on the horizon, Harlow has an exciting and busy season ahead. Congratulations, Harlow, on being an outstanding athlete and leader.

© Best Version Media

You’re invited to discover a new era of health at our Grand Opening

Thursday, March 20 | 5-8 p.m.

Sports Medicine and Performance at Park City Hospital

Stronger Park City. Stronger you.

Join us for the grand opening of our new integrated health and wellness center at Park City Hospital. This state-of-the-art facility offers a wide range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of our community and take your health to the next level.

Short program and ribbon cutting at 5:30

900 Round Valley Drive, Park City | first floor (Grundhofer Clinic Entrance)

Explore our comprehensive services, including:

● Lifestyle Medicine and Wellness

● Integrative Medicine

● Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

● Occupational Therapy

● Sports Performance

● Sports Medicine

● Concierge Health

● Acupuncture

● Massage Therapy

● Neuro Rehab

● Nutrition Services

We’re excited to welcome you to our new facility and look forward to celebrating this milestone with you. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about the unique services available to our community and how we are committed to supporting your journey to better health and wellness.

Foundations of aMovement Practice: PLANTING THE SEEDS OF CONSISTENCY © Best Version Media

BY RACHEL FRIEDMAN, STOKE COACH

As spring unfolds in Park City, we are surrounded by nature’s quiet reminder that growth takes time. The snow recedes, the first green shoots break through, and the days start to stretch a little longer. It is a season of renewal—a perfect time to plant the seeds of a sustainable movement practice.

MOVEMENT IS DEEPLY PERSONAL

Movement is not just about exercise; it is about finding ways to engage with your body that feel good, bring joy, and create momentum. Whether you are returning to an old routine, starting fresh, or refining what already works, the key is simple: show up, be consistent, and choose something you love.

SHOW UP: THE POWER OF SMALL BEGINNINGS

Every garden starts with a single seed, and every movement practice begins with showing up. You do not need to overhaul your life overnight. Instead, think of small, intentional steps. Maybe it is a morning stretch, a walk around your neighborhood, or a few minutes of breathwork. The important thing is to start—without overthinking or waiting for the “perfect” moment. Just like in nature, where a plant does not rush to bloom but instead grows steadily with sun and water, your movement practice thrives on gentle persistence. Some days will feel easy, and others will be a struggle, but showing up—no matter the conditions—is what keeps things growing.

BE CONSISTENT: WATER YOUR PRACTICE

Consistency is what turns effort into habit. Think of it as watering the seeds you have planted. If you want something to grow, it needs regular attention—not just when the mood strikes.

The trick is to set yourself up for success. Instead of aiming for perfection, focus on frequency. Maybe that means committing to three movement sessions a week or simply making movement a part of your daily routine in small doses—taking the stairs, stretching while your coffee brews, or setting aside 10 minutes for mindful breathing. The more you nurture your practice, the deeper its roots will grow.

DO WHAT YOU LOVE: MOVEMENT SHOULD FEEL GOOD

Spring invites us to reconnect with joy; your movement practice should do the same. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, so let go of the idea that movement has to look a certain way. Some people find their rhythm in yoga, while others thrive on trail runs, dance, or strength training. The best practice is the one that keeps you coming back.

If you love being outdoors, take advantage of Park City’s trails as they thaw. If music moves you, try a dance class. If you crave quiet, explore a mindful movement practice like Tai Chi or Pilates. The goal is to find something that does not feel like a chore—something that makes you want to move.

SPRING IS YOUR INVITATION

There is something invigorating about the transition from winter to spring— the shift in seasons brings new energy, fresh opportunities, and the chance to reset. Living in a ski town, many of us stay active all winter long—carving turns, chasing powder, and keeping our bodies strong for the mountain. But as the snow recedes and the trails start to reappear, spring offers a different kind of renewal—an opportunity to shift gears, explore new ways to move, and build a foundation that carries us through the seasons. As the days grow warmer, let this time of year remind you that it is never too late to begin. Start small, stay consistent, and choose movement that brings you joy.

Over time, those tiny efforts—just like seeds—will take root, grow strong, and become something lasting. And just as spring reminds us, growth is not about rushing; it is about showing up, day after day, and trusting the process.

So step outside, stretch, breathe, move—and let this be the season you plant something beautiful for yourself.

If you are looking for guidance in building a movement practice that feels good and fits your lifestyle, I would love to help. As a wellness and fitness guide, I work with clients to create customized, mindful, and joyful movement experiences that build strength, confidence, and consistency—whether it is personal training, outdoor sessions, or a holistic fitness approach. Let us plant the seeds of a routine that energizes and excites you. Reach out, and let us move together!

SpringIntoAlignment: RESETTING YOUR DAILY ROUTINES

Spring is a season of renewal, and fresh growth begins to emerge. Just as gardeners prepare their soil, plan their gardens, and plant new seeds, we, too, can embrace this season as an opportunity to refresh our routines. By reassessing our daily habits and cultivating new ones, we create fertile ground for personal growth, productivity, and well-being. The shift in seasons serves as a natural reminder that change is not only possible but necessary for flourishing.

WHAT IS A ROUTINE?

A routine is a sequence of actions regularly followed. It provides structure and stability, helping us manage time efficiently while fostering habits that align with our values and goals. Routines serve as the foundation for a balanced and intentional life, allowing us to thrive rather than simply move through our days on autopilot. When we approach routines with mindfulness, they become powerful tools for self-care and transformation rather than rigid obligations.

THE BENEFITS OF ROUTINE

A well-structured routine offers numerous benefits, including:

▶ Increased productivity: Streamlining activities optimizes time and efficiency, helping you focus on what truly matters.

▶ Reduced stress: Predictability creates a sense of control and minimizes anxiety, leading to greater emotional balance.

▶ Healthy habits: Incorporating exercise, mindfulness, and nourishing meals promotes physical and mental well-being.

▶ Better time management: Prioritizing tasks ensures important activities are not neglected, reducing procrastination and overwhelm.

▶ Enhanced focus and clarity: Establishing a rhythm allows your mind to function with greater ease, improving decision-making and creativity.

▶ Improved sleep quality: Consistent bedtime and wake-up routines regulate circadian rhythms, fostering deeper rest and rejuvenation.

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CULTIVATING A NEW ROUTINE

Spring invites us to assess what is working in our lives and what no longer serves us. Use the following steps to intentionally reset your routine:

▶ Assess Your Needs: Identify areas that feel stagnant and where improvement is needed. What habits nourish you? Which ones feel draining? Self-awareness is the first step to meaningful change.

▶ Set Intentional Goals: Determine what you hope to achieve by shifting your routine. Clarity provides motivation and direction, ensuring your habits align with your long-term vision.

▶ Plant New Seeds: Choose essential activities that align with your well-being and values. Consider habits that promote movement, creativity, rest, and connection.

▶ Create a Flexible Structure: Schedule habits into your day, but allow room for adaptability. A rigid routine can lead to burnout, while a flexible one supports long-term sustainability and enjoyment.

▶ Take Small, Consistent Steps: Motivation follows action. Start small, and momentum will build. Even a five-minute meditation, a short walk, or a mindful meal can make a significant impact over time.

▶ Monitor & Adjust: Progress, not perfection, is the goal. Regularly evaluate your routine to ensure it continues to

support your needs. Adjust as necessary without guilt, knowing that growth is an evolving process.

▶ Celebrate Your Growth: Recognize and honor the positive changes you implement. Acknowledging progress reinforces commitment and self-trust. Each small step forward is a victory worth celebrating.

REFLECTION:

TENDING TO YOUR INNER GARDEN

Journaling can help you gain clarity as you reset your routine. Consider these prompts:

▶ How does your current morning routine make you feel? What small change could enhance it?

▶ What habits support your energy and well-being? Which drain you? How can you cultivate more of what nourishes you?

▶ How can you incorporate more movement, mindfulness, or joy into your daily life? What practices bring you the most fulfillment?

▶ What routines feel aligned with who you are becoming? Are there new rhythms calling to you?

▶ What is one habit that no longer serves you? How can you gently release it and replace it with something more supportive?

▶ How does nature’s rhythm inspire your own daily flow? What lessons can you take from the cycles of the seasons?

Spring reminds us that transformation begins beneath the surface. By tending to our personal soil—our routines, habits, and daily choices— we nurture the conditions for growth, vitality, and renewal. Just as a garden requires care, patience, and attention, so too does our inner world. Embrace this season as an invitation to reset, realign, and flourish. The seeds you plant today will shape the harvest of your future self.

PROTEUS MOTION ©

In the competitive world of sports, athletes and fitness enthusiasts constantly seek ways to boost performance and gain an edge. Valhalla Cell Health's Heber City Center introduces Proteus Motion assessments, groundbreaking technology designed to elevate performance for middle and high school athletes and community members aiming to measure their fitness accurately.

UNDERSTANDING PROTEUS MOTION

Proteus Motion assessments at Valhalla Cell Health represent a breakthrough in fitness evaluation and training. Using patented 3D Resistance™ technology, Proteus Motion allows multi-directional, unrestricted exercises, accurately measuring strength, power, acceleration, deceleration, and endurance. Immediate feedback from these comprehensive assessments guides customized training plans, helping athletes and fitness enthusiasts optimize performance and minimize injury risk.

BENEFITS FOR STUDENT-ATHLETES

For middle and high school athletes, early identification of strengths and areas for improvement is crucial. Proteus Motion assessments provide:

▶ Personalized Training Plans: By analyzing individual performance metrics, customized training regimens can be developed to target specific weaknesses and enhance overall athleticism.

▶ Injury Prevention: Understanding biomechanical inefficiencies allows for corrective strategies, thereby reducing the likelihood of injuries.

▶ Performance Benchmarking: Athletes can compare their metrics against peers and professional standards, setting realistic goals and tracking progress over time.

EMPOWERING THE COMMUNITY

Beyond student-athletes, Proteus Motion assessments are beneficial for community members interested in understanding their fitness levels:

▶ Comprehensive Fitness Evaluation: Gain insights into overall strength, power, and movement efficiency, which are essential for daily activities and long-term health.

▶ Customized Fitness Programs: Develop exercise routines based on precise data, ensuring effectiveness and safety.

▶ Motivation and Accountability: Regular assessments provide tangible evidence of progress, fostering motivation and adherence to fitness goals.

VALHALLA CELL HEALTH'S COMMITMENT

At Valhalla Cell Health, we are dedicated to leveraging advanced technologies to promote optimal health and performance. Our integration of Proteus Motion aligns with our mission to offer innovative solutions that cater to the diverse needs of our community.

TESTIMONIALS AND SUCCESS STORIES

Athletes and trainers worldwide have recognized the impact of Proteus Motion:

▶ Eric Cressey, a renowned trainer to MLB's elite, states, "Proteus has been an absolute game-changer for us at Cressey Sports Performance with respect to how we test and train rotational athletes. The word 'unique' gets thrown around far too often with respect to fitness innovations, but Proteus truly delivers a one-of-a-kind training stimulus that has had a profound influence on our ability to optimize performance and keep athletes healthy."

mentions, "The versatility and application of Proteus makes it one of the most powerful tools I have in my studio. An incredible teaching, training, and testing tool in one machine, for all populations of clients."

We invite middle school and high school athletes, as well as community members in Heber City and surrounding areas, to experience the transformative benefits of Proteus Motion assessments at Valhalla Cell Health. Investing in a personalized assessment is a proactive step toward achieving your athletic and fitness aspirations.

To schedule your Proteus Motion assessment or to learn more about our services, please visit our website or contact our Heber City Center directly. Embark on a journey to unlock your full potential with Valhalla Cell Health.

Valhalla Cell Health's Heber City Center leverages Proteus Motion technology to enhance athletic performance and fitness. Whether you're a dedicated athlete or simply striving for better health, our tailored assessments and training programs are designed for your specific goals. Take the first step toward peak performance with Valhalla Cell Health.

▶ Jason Walsh, trainer to Shaun White and other celebrity actors,

HOW MAINTAINING A HEALTHY WEIGHT IMPACTS FERTILITY

Weight and nutrition are making headlines everywhere—from social media trends to wellness blogs. But how much do they really impact fertility? The truth is, maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important factors in reproductive health—for both men and women.

WHY

DOES WEIGHT MATTER FOR FERTILITY?

Weight influences hormone balance, ovulation, and even embryo development. Both underweight and overweight individuals may face challenges when trying to conceive.

If you’re underweight: Your body may produce lower levels of estrogen, which can disrupt ovulation and make it harder to conceive.

If you’re overweight: Excess fat tissue can lead to insulin resistance and increased estrogen

levels, which may interfere with regular ovulation and implantation.

COMMON MYTHS ABOUT DIET AND FERTILITY

X Myth: Eating pineapple or yams will make you more fertile.

✓ Fact: While some foods contain beneficial nutrients, there’s no magic ingredient that guarantees conception.

X Myth: Cutting out all carbs will improve fertility.

✓ Fact: Highly processed carbs can negatively affect hormones, but whole grains and fiber-rich carbs support reproductive health.

X Myth: You need to take every fertility supplement on the market.

✓ Fact: While some vitamins like folic acid and vitamin D are important, excessive supplementation isn’t always helpful. It’s best to focus on a balanced diet first.

Complete Fertility Care For Aspiring Families in Utah

Wellnest is the only fertility clinic in Ogden that brings together renowned fertility specialists, a suite of wellness and support services, and accessible pricing.

FINDING A HEALTHY BALANCE

If you're trying to conceive, focusing on a well-rounded diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress can all contribute to reproductive health. If you have specific concerns, a fertility specialist or registered dietitian can help personalize recommendations.

YOUR FERTILITY QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Have more questions? Send them to me, and I’ll cover them in upcoming columns! Email us at hello@wellnestfertility.com.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS CORNER

Discover the Transformative Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

In the picturesque surroundings of the Wasatch Back, Wasatch Optimal Wellness (WOW Clinic) is redefining healthcare by blending the wisdom of conventional medicine with the insight of holistic healing approaches.

• Cold Plunge

• Dry and Infrared Saunas

• Full-body DEXA Scan

• Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

• IV Therapy

Experience Wellness Like Never Before Book

• RMR

• VO2 Max Testing

• Weight Loss Management

• Joint Injections

• Nutritional Counseling

Give Us a Call (435) 800-6WOW or Scan Below

1716 N Highway 40, Ste 200 Heber City, UT 84032 Email info@wowclinic.com

Emerging research suggests that hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) plays a role in supporting recovery and improving outcomes for individuals with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) or a concussion. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) has been used for more than 360 years, but only recently has it gained widespread recognition for its powerful healing benefits, including recovery from concussions and TBIs. Furthermore, HBOT enhances oxygen delivery, reduces inflammation, and supports brain healing, making it a promising therapy for head trauma.

For the Salmon family, co-owners and providers at Wasatch Optimal Wellness (WOW), the potential of HBOT became personal when their oldest son, Caden, suffered two consecutive concussions. He was already managing ADHD when his post-concussive symptoms compounded his challenges, leading the Salmons to seek answers at the world-renowned Amen Clinic in California. There, they were introduced to HBOT as a recommended treatment—but soon discovered it wasn’t available in their area. Realizing other families were likely facing the same struggle, they saw an opportunity to use their medical backgrounds to bring this powerful healing modality to the Wasatch Back.

Now, alongside Dr. Ben Fogg, Bryant and Meredith Salmon have established the WOW Clinic as a premier destination for integrative healing. With two state-of-the-art HBOT chambers, they offer this and other cutting-edge therapies, all of which bring the perfect synergy of Western medicine and holistic healing to help individuals recover, optimize their health, and thrive. I invite you to experience the unique advantage of hospitalgrade “hard chamber” hyperbaric therapy, the only one of its kind in Heber City. The staff has received extensive training and certification through the International Board of Undersea Medicine and will be overseeing every aspect of your HBOT journey.

How Does It Work?

Our body’s tissues require oxygen to function. HBOT enhances the body’s natural healing processes by increasing oxygen availability at the cellular level. The air we breathe is approximately 21% oxygen—under normal conditions, oxygen is transported primarily by red blood cells. However, when breathing 100% oxygen under

increased atmospheric pressure, oxygen dissolves directly into the plasma, independent of red blood cells. This elevated oxygen saturation leads to several key physiological, biochemical, and cellular benefits that aid in healing, reducing inflammation and promoting recovery.

This helps with TBIs and concussions; plasticsurgery recovery; autoimmune and rheumatologic disorders; anti-aging; Alzheimer’s and dementia; post-operative orthopedic-surgery healing; long Covid; strokes; inflammation; sports injuries; neurological disorders and neuropathy; poor healing wounds; Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis; sciatica; osteonecrosis; PTSD; migraines; post-filler necrosis; and more. Our body’s tissues need oxygen to function, and increasing oxygen availability can accelerate healing and recovery. HBOT enhances this process by delivering 100% pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, allowing oxygen to reach areas with poor circulation and inflammation.

As mentioned, we breathe air containing 21% oxygen, which is primarily carried by red blood cells. However, under increased atmospheric pressure in an HBOT chamber, oxygen molecules condense, becoming small enough to dissolve directly into plasma, the fluid component of blood. This boosts bioavailable oxygen by up to 1200%, allowing it to penetrate deeper into tissues, promote cellular repair, reduce inflammation, and accelerate recovery.

This oxygen saturation stimulates new blood-vessel growth (angiogenesis), enhances mitochondrial function and ATP (energy) production, reduces oxidative stress, and modulates the immune system. These benefits make HBOT a powerful, noninvasive therapy for numerous conditions.

HBOT supports neurological healing in TBIs, strokes, concussion recovery, PTSD, and cognitive decline by reducing neuroinflammation and promoting brain repair. It accelerates post-surgical healing, including plastic- and orthopedic-surgery recovery, by minimizing swelling, improving tissue repair, and reducing scarring. It is also effective for autoimmune and inflammatory disorders—such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s, and ulcerative colitis—by regulating immune function. Additionally, HBOT enhances diabetic-wound healing, sports-injury recovery, and immune resilience, while also

EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR • BY TIFFANY WICKES, ON BEHALF OF WOW CLINIC

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benefiting long Covid, chronic fatigue, migraines, and osteonecrosis. By flooding the body with oxygen at a cellular level, HBOT optimizes healing, recovery, and overall health.

Is It Safe?

With a rich historical background dating back centuries, HBOT has evolved into a widely recognized medical intervention, now commonly employed in hospitals and specialized clinics. Beyond its established applications traditionally administered in a hospital setting, emerging data highlights the benefits of off-label use across various medical domains. This expanding scope underscores HBOT’s versatility and the ongoing research of its therapeutic potential in diverse healthcare and clinical settings.

It is incredible that this therapy is offered in Heber Valley—and, as an added safety reassurance, the providers at the WOW Clinic prioritize the quality and safety of their chambers. Every chamber available through WOW has not only obtained FDA approval but also holds clearances from esteemed organizations such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the Committee on Pressurized Vessels for Human Occupancy (PVHO-1). These stringent evaluations ensure that WOW’s chambers meet the highest standards of safety and performance, akin to those used in submarines. While numerous hyperbaric chambers exist in the market, only a select few undergo thorough evaluations and receive FDA clearance.

You can trust in the reliability and excellence of WOW for your hyperbaric therapy needs.

Dr. Ben Fogg and Bryant, a physician assistant, both are certified hyperbaric clinicians recognized by the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS) and the International Board of Undersea Medicine (IBUM), ensuring that you receive expert care tailored precisely to your needs. Every practitioner that operates the chambers has undergone safety and competency certifications. Safety and well-being are the utmost priority, and they will provide personalized treatments for your condition in the safest manner possible.

What Can HBOT Help With?

In addition to the conditions listed above, here are some key potential benefits of HBOT:

▶ Accelerated wound healing: By enhancing oxygen delivery to damaged areas, HBOT speeds up the recovery process for chronic wounds and injuries.

▶ Improved athletic performance: Athletes can experience faster recovery times and improved endurance.

▶ Holistic approach to chronic pain: Find relief from pain due to inflammation and various chronic conditions through increased oxygen flow throughout the body and the downregulation of certain inflammatory enzymes.

▶ Strengthened immune system: Oxygen is essential for killing bacteria. By

exponentially raising oxygen levels throughout the body, the efficiency of bactericidal action of white blood cells can be enhanced dramatically.

▶ Optimizes healing after injury or surgery: Reperfusion injury occurs when tissues are deprived of oxygen; HBOT can prevent tissue damage by sending oxygen to damaged cells and revitalizing them.

▶ Stem cells: HBOT has been shown to significantly increase the concentration of circulating stem/progenitor cells within the peripheral circulation system. Stem cells have the ability to accelerate growth and repair of damaged tissue; improve tissue generation and organ functionality; and promote neurogenesis and osteogenesis among other functions.

Are you ready to unlock your body’s full potential? Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is more than just a treatment; it’s a step toward a healthier, more vibrant you. Wasatch Optimal Wellness is here to guide you through each breath of the way. Take advantage of this opportunity to revolutionize your health and performance and join the scores of athletes, chronic-pain sufferers, and wellness enthusiasts who have made HBOT an integral part of their health regimen. WOW is where holistic healing meets peak performance and should be your first stop to optimize your health.

DEXA Scan:

WOW’s Secret

Tool for Optimal Wellness

In today’s world, staying on top of your health is more important than ever. With the surge in health awareness and preventive care, you may have heard about DEXA scans—also known as Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry. But what exactly is a DEXA scan, and how can the expert team at Wasatch Optimal Wellness (WOW) benefit you?

A DEXA scan is an advanced, noninvasive imaging technique that provides an in-depth look at your body’s composition, including bone density, fat percentage, and muscle mass. Unlike traditional weight measurements or BMI calculations, a DEXA scan offers a clear, precise, and individualized analysis of your body’s true health status. Here are just a few reasons why a DEXA scan should be an essential part of your health and wellness routine at WOW:

1.

Accurate Body Fat and Muscle Mass Assessment

Unlike standard body-fat measurements, which can be inaccurate due to various factors, a DEXA scan measures your fat distribution with unparalleled precision. It not only calculates the percentage of fat in your body but also shows where that fat is located, whether around your organs (visceral fat) or under your skin (subcutaneous fat). This is vital information for anyone serious about their health and fitness, as it allows for a personalized approach to body-composition changes and health optimization, whether you decide to go through your health journey on your own or you choose to utilize WOW’s powerful weight-loss programs.

Additionally, a DEXA scan measures lean muscle mass, which is closely monitored while participating in WOW’s weight-loss management program, and is essential for monitoring your physical progress—whether you’re trying to lose weight, gain muscle, or improve athletic performance. Tracking these metrics will help you make informed decisions about your diet, exercise, and overall wellness strategy. WOW has an on-staff nutritionist to help guide and inform your nutrition strategy to best optimize your goals.

2.

Bone Health and Osteoporosis Detection

One of the most important benefits of a DEXA scan is its ability to measure bone density. Osteoporosis, a condition in which bones become weak and brittle, often develops without obvious symptoms until fractures occur. A DEXA scan can detect early signs of bone loss, helping you take action before a fracture happens. Whether you’re at risk due to age, genetics, or lifestyle factors, regular DEXA scans can provide valuable insights into the health of your bones, enabling timely intervention and prevention strategies.

3.

Precise and Reliable Measurements

A DEXA scan offers a precise, reliable, and reproducible measurement. Whether you’re monitoring your fitness progress or evaluating the effectiveness of a specific nutrition plan, DEXA provides a solid benchmark.

Moreover, the results of a DEXA scan are reviewed and interpreted with you in a private room with WOW’s providers to help you understand your current health status and make informed decisions about your next steps to abundant health.

4.

Customized Fitness and Nutrition Plans

With the accurate data from a DEXA scan, you and the onstaff nutritionist can design a nutrition plan that targets your unique health needs. For example, if you have excess visceral fat, you may benefit from their weight-loss program focusing on cardiovascular health, fat loss, and hunger management. If you’re looking to build lean muscle, your plan can be tailored to increase protein intake and incorporate strength training at home or through WOW’s strategic partnerships with local fitness facilities.

Having a baseline body-composition measurement will also help track progress over time. After implementing a cohesive plan with the team, your next scan will be plotted on a comprehensive graph so that you can evaluate your progress—whatever isn’t measured can’t be changed or improved upon. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast aiming for peak performance or someone embarking on a weight-loss journey, DEXA scans give you and the team the tools to track your success, adjust your goals, and keep moving forward.

5.

Preventive Health and Wellness

A DEXA scan isn’t just for those looking to lose weight or gain muscle. It’s also a valuable tool for preventive health care. By detecting early signs of bone density loss, abdominal-fat accumulation, or loss in muscle mass, it can help you take proactive steps in preventing conditions like osteoporosis, sarcopenia (low muscle mass), cardiovascular disease, and metabolic disorder.

A DEXA scan is much more than just a snapshot of your body—it’s a powerful tool that unlocks the secrets of your health. Whether you’re looking to improve athletic performance, monitor weight loss, assess your bone health, or design a customized fitness and nutrition plan, a DEXA scan provides invaluable insight that is personalized and accurate, along

with thorough guidance from Dr. Ben Fogg and physician’s assistant Bryant Salmon.

How Does It Work?

This is a simple, noninvasive, and minimal radiation-exposure scan that takes approximately seven minutes. When the scan is complete, you and your provider will go over your results thoroughly, and in a manner that is relatable and understandable for you. With an array of health and wellness services offered at WOW—IV therapy, VO2 max testing, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, vitamin injections, cold plunge and sauna, weight-loss management, and more—together you will collaborate on a fitness and wellness plan that will leave you feeling empowered, supported, and enthusiastic.

We read & scrutinize the labels so you don’t have to Curated, life-tested products from household to personal care and beyond Consolidated ASAP delivery to your doorstep How can we help you live free? Send us a text!

NAVIGATING DIGESTIVE DISCOMFORT: THE LOW-FODMAP DIET EXPLAINED

If you’ve ever felt like your stomach has a mind of its own—leaving you bloated, uncomfortable, or running to the bathroom after meals— you’re not alone. For many, digestive struggles are more than a passing inconvenience; they’re a daily battle impacting everything from energy levels to social life. But what if relief was possible? Enter the low-FODMAP diet, a scientifically backed approach designed to reduce digestive distress and uncover food triggers.

What Is the Low-FODMAP Diet?

Originally developed by researchers at Monash University, the low-FODMAP diet targets fermentable short-chain carbohydrates that can be difficult to digest. These FODMAPs are found in foods like onions, garlic, apples, dairy, and certain grains. When poorly absorbed, they draw water into the gut and ferment, leading to bloating, gas, and other uncomfortable symptoms.

The diet is not a long-term solution but rather a short-term tool to identify food triggers and reset digestion. It’s particularly beneficial for those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), chronic bloating, or unexplained food sensitivities

The Three Phases of the Low-FODMAP Diet

To be effective, the diet follows three distinct phases:

▶ Elimination Phase (2-6 weeks): This phase removes all highFODMAP foods to calm the gut and reduce inflammation. Many people experience rapid symptom relief, but staying in this phase too long can deplete beneficial gut bacteria.

▶ Reintroduction Phase: One FODMAP group is reintroduced at a time, helping to identify which foods trigger symptoms. This personalized approach prevents unnecessary food restrictions.

▶ Personalization Phase: The final phase creates a sustainable, balanced diet that supports gut health while avoiding specific triggers. The goal is to expand food choices without discomfort and maintain long-term digestive wellness.

Why Staying on a Low-FODMAP Diet Too Long

Can Backfire

While eliminating FODMAPs provides relief, it’s not a cure. Long-term restriction can negatively impact gut microbiome diversity, leading to increased sensitivity and more digestive problems down the road. Gut health thrives on fiber-rich, fermentable foods, many of which are high in FODMAPs. The key is finding a balance.

Functional Testing: Going Beyond Diet

The low-FODMAP diet can help manage symptoms, but it doesn’t address the root cause of gut issues. Functional stool testing, such as the GI MAP test, offers a deeper look into gut imbalances, bacterial overgrowth, inflammation, and digestive function.

By identifying underlying issues, a personalized gut-healing plan can be developed, incorporating:

▶ Restoring Digestive Function – Eating nutrient-dense foods that support digestion.

▶ Rebalancing the Microbiome – Introducing beneficial bacteria through diet and lifestyle.

▶ Reducing Stress – Stress is a major gut disruptor; managing it is key to healing.

▶ Repairing the Gut Lining – Using nutrients like glutamine and collagen to strengthen digestion.

Is the Low-FODMAP Diet Right for You?

If you struggle with persistent digestive symptoms, the low-FODMAP diet can be a powerful tool—but only when used correctly. A qualified nutritionist can help guide you through the process, ensuring you’re meeting your nutritional needs and transitioning off the diet safely.

As a functional nutritionist specializing in gut health, I help clients uncover the root cause of digestive distress and create personalized strategies for lasting relief. If you’re ready to get to the bottom of your gut issues and heal for good, let’s talk!

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BY KIRSTEN KOHLWEY

Bundled up in warm clothes, we arrive at the Jeremy Ranch Park & Ride in time to catch the very punctual 6:38 a.m. bus to Salt Lake City. The smooth ride takes us down the canyon, up 2100 East, with a few stops in the University of Utah area, and over to Salt Lake Central Station. We had downloaded the Transit App in advance; we probably should have set up our accounts too, but we still have just enough time to do this at the train station and buy our tickets before the Frontrunner to Provo arrives.

For my first ride on the Frontrunner, I choose a seat on the upper level. My highlight is seeing the landscape west of I-15 as we head through the gullies by Point of the Mountain. A stream runs next to the train track, making you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere.

Once at Provo Central Station, we wander past commercial buildings about to be torn down, a few bakeries, and then east towards S University Ave and historic downtown Provo. At 8:30 a.m., the streets are quite empty, and most eateries are still closed, but after sightseeing, we find—across from the historic courthouse— Guru’s Cafe, whose breakfast menu covers the full spectrum. Colorful art lines the walls, and unique metal sculptures that pre-date the business decorate the interior. The peacefulness is interrupted by sirens blaring from hook-andladder fire engines and emergency vehicles. Firefighters in full gear walk past the entrance, inspiring everyone to step outside to check for fire. With none in

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sight, we board the UVX bus in the middle of S University Avenue to explore the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum. It’s an easy walk from the North Campus bus stop to the entrance of the museum.

As you enter, reindeer stare at you, and tall giraffes tower over you behind them. This taxidermy dream displays animals from all over the world, including a large collection of local birds. Farther into the museum, little kids can explore the playground-like animal exhibits, while older kids can check out the effects of climate change and the Covid epidemic upstairs. This museum is free and open from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, as well as Saturdays until 5:00 p.m. A room in the center of the museum features the wood carvings of Boyd K. Packer. Here, you see not only finished pieces but also drawings explaining how he carved the birds, and at what age they were. Having been to many museums, I find it rare to be invited to study the process.

The crisp mountain air and views create a delightful, slightly uphill walk back to the bus stop. We return to the same one so that we can ride it to the end of the line, which is Orem Central Station. The ride from here to Ogden Central Station costs $9.10 on Frontrunner. With a two-hour ride, we choose to sit at a table with two outlets—that way, we’re able to write and charge our phones while catching up on the daily barrage of messages. Don’t forget to look out the window at Utah Lake: Traveling by train provides much different views than trying to peek between buildings from I-15. Another benefit of the Frontrunner is that it has a very clean restroom on the bottom floor.

Fully rested, we arrive in Ogden to explore historic 25th Street. Ogden is developing a promenade with housing south of 25th, which will take another year or two to finish. When complete, it will open on to 25th, right across from La Ferrovia’s Italian eatery, which serves

delicious food and tall Italian sodas in different flavors, like tiramisu. The current owners took over this 30-year-old Ogden staple three years ago.

25th Street also features one of the most beautiful yarn stores I have ever seen. Custom-made wood shelves and cabinets display hundreds of bundles of yarn. The Needlepoint Joint is 50 years old, with 30 years at its current location. The friendly employees don’t just sell yarn—you can take classes there on everything from knitting and crocheting to tatting.

We find three different stores selling high-end chocolates. The most recent one to open is Lené Marie’s Chocolates. Lené and her daughter are making delicious chocolate-covered caramels when we enter. While the store itself is only a few months old, Lené’s uncle had a chocolate store for a long time. Lené herself ran a restaurant in earlier years but wanted to open a different business. I highly recommend checking out this one’s old-time feel, with a chocolate variety geared to current flavors. The Queen Bee up the street offers chocolates and gifts from different local chocolatiers and foreign suppliers.

A modern vibe can be found at the top of this historic street, where people hang out sipping coffee and eating pastries in the midst of local art. Continuing our public transportation adventure, we hop on the free trolley to take us back to Ogden Central Station for our return trip. In total, this trip costs us $20.20 per adult for the public transportation tickets, but there are fare cap rates that would have limited it to $8 per day—not bad for avoiding driving fatigue. Of course, if you live in the Wasatch Front, consider taking the Salt Lake–Park City Connector to Kimball Junction from Salt Lake Central Station and exploring the Wasatch Back by bus. Buses around Park City and into Heber and Kamas are free!

@kirstentravelwrites

We’re here to help! Our team will reach out to you promptly to assist with any information or assistance you need.

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The Story of Keetley, Part 1

According to Viola Koldewyn’s handwritten, two-page biographical letter, on August 11, 1868, David Fisher, age 16, was building a railroad when a landslide killed his father near Devil’s Gate, Weber Canyon, on the same job (Familysearch. org, Fisher). David took on the mantle of providing for his siblings and widowed mother. By late 1875, he moved to Park City to work in the burgeoning Ontario Mine, and by 1883, he had become its foreman. His wife, Mary McDonald, had grown up in Heber. David eventually relocated his family there, and their house still stands today. However, he and his family became intertwined in the economic and cultural fabric of the two cities. If you’ve ever wondered about the town Keetley, the Fishers are responsible for much of what it became.

The remnants of the Mayflower were bulldozed just a few years ago as the massive Hyatt Hotel was built to accommodate Deer Valley East’s guests. The Mayflower mine was part of a larger conglomerate of mining operations that included David Fisher’s own Columbus Mine (White, p. 247). Many others would prospect the hills above

adjacent McCune Hollow, leaving traces that can be seen today. Most architectural history, buildings, homes, and roads, tell the Keetley story of being leveled or submerged.

In 1872, Henry and Kezia Cluff moved to their property in today’s northern and central basin of Jordanelle Reservoir, now a submerged town once called Elkhorn, then later Hailstone (Familysearch. org, Cluff). It was that same year Rector Steen discovered the Ontario claim—although it could have been Herman Budden—and quickly sold it to J.B. Haggin and George Hearst of Virginia City, Nevada, for $27,000 (Ringholz, p. 16). Their motivation? The mineral assay reported 100–400 ounces of silver per ore ton, which is anywhere from 6.25 to 25 pounds of silver per ore ton and would probably have been around the volume of one ore cart. That’s a lot of silver.

Henry Cluff sold dairy and meat goods to settlers in Park City. Miners dug deep into the subterranean fissures, tracing treasure, eventually creating 23 millionaires. However, it was known as a “wet district because of the region’s heavy precipitation…sponged up by red shale and

massive quartzite forming underground streams” (Ringholz, p.16). Miners encountered incredible water volumes, flooding tunnels and preventing deeper extraction.

Ontario Drain No. 1 tunnel was cut in 1881, releasing a constant flow of water near the top of Main Street, Park City (Utahrails.org). The newly installed famous Cornish pump’s 70-ton flywheel pushed and pulled a 1,060-foot pump rod, elevating more than 3.5 million gallons of water per day from the 1,000-foot (depth) level into the No. 1 drain tunnel.

Good ore lodes continually pushed the miners further, encountering more and more water. In early 1887, the Ontario Mining Company made plans to build Ontario Drain No. 2, having noted the effectiveness of their first drain tunnel, today known as Keetley Tunnel (Thompson & Buck, p. 41). R.C. Chambers tasked John “Jack” Keetley, a well-known and formidable man, with the job. By August that year, Camp Florence saw expansion of buildings and dorms for miners as work began— buildings that were razed in 1983.

Market demands improved in mid-1888, when

CHRISTIAN CENTER OF PARK CITY STORES: SHOPPING WITH A PURPOSE

The Christian Center of Park City (CCPC) is well-known for its impactful services, and part of that impact comes from four incredible thrift stores—Summit Exchange, CCPC Boutique, CCPC Thrift, and the Heber Valley Thrift Store. These stores not only offer affordable treasures for shoppers but also help fund the critical programs and services CCPC provides to the community.

Summit Exchange is a hub for high-quality, gently used outdoor gear, clothing, furniture, and household items. From skis to vintage furniture, it’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike, offering affordable finds that support a meaningful cause.

CCPC Thrift is perfect for those seeking everyday essentials. With a range of clothing, home goods, toys, and electronics, it provides

affordable, gently used items for families and individuals while contributing to CCPC’s charitable efforts.

For a more curated experience, CCPC Boutique offers designer clothing, accessories, and unique fashion pieces. It feels like an upscale shopping destination, but with the added benefit that every purchase directly supports CCPC’s community programs. Expanding CCPC’s mission beyond Park City, the Heber Thrift Store brings the same value-driven, community-focused shopping experience to Heber Valley. With a wide variety of affordable clothing, furniture, and household goods, it serves as a beloved local resource while supporting CCPC’s outreach efforts in the region.

Proceeds from all four stores directly fund CCPC’s essential services, including food

programs, counseling, and emergency assistance. Shopping or donating at these stores not only provides great deals but also contributes to a larger mission of helping those in need.

Shop, donate, and make an impact with Christian Center of Park City stores. Your support goes further than you think! Learn more at ccofpc.org. https://ccofpc.org/stores/.

There is a lot more going on at CCPC. To keep up on the latest happenings, you can follow our social media here: facebook.com/ChristianCenterofParkCity or our website here: ccofpc.org

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Congress provided “for the purchase of 4,500,000 ounces of silver a month, which resulted in a great improvement of the silver market” (Utahrails.org). If there was ever a motivation to find more silver, this was it. They had to clear the water. Work in the tunnel began that year, starting from Camp Florence. Hard-rock mining is challenging: drilling, blasting, and mucking waste-rock, only so much rock per day being moved. By 1890, the surface tunnel was 4,000-feet deep, but that same year, Camp Florence burned (Thompson & Buck, p. 41). Fires were the scourge of mining camps across the west, and Park City was no different. It was only eight years later when Park City proper went up in flames.

Ontario Drain No. 2 tunnel was completed on October 7, 1894, the three-mile section to the Ontario mining works: “It was so straight that light could be seen at the portal” (Thompson & Buck, p. 41). The timbered tunnel was “9.5 feet tall and tapered from 4.5-feet-wide ceiling to 5.5-feet-wide floor. A flume 21 inches deep ran beneath [floor] planking at a rate of 13,000 gallons per minute” (Ringholz, p. 21). The planking allowed for regular mine work, including ore carts and rails. If you’ve ever wondered what happened to all that water, then it would be important to know that water rights and shares are not a new thing. Those 13,000 gallons per minute spilled into the Middle Provo River, but, as a result, Midway City had claim to most of it, (DUP, p. 1114). “It was a boon to farmers in the lowlands. Orson Hicken, David Hicken, Fred Hicken, and others dug a canal to carry the waters down to the meadows.” Although it appears to have been Orson and his two sons, documentation is not clear on which of the Hickenses these men were. However, this was early enough in Heber and Midway history that they were among Heber Valley’s first settling families.

Over the next several decades, water continued to flow from the portal at Camp Florence. The notable events happened underground, only adding to the water entering McCune Hollow: 1898, Drain No. 2 was lengthened to the DalyJudge mine (White, p. 247). Park City’s miners

kept digging, Heber Valley’s residents kept farming, and the Cluffs, geographically and culturally in the middle, continued taking their ranch goods into Park City.

Henry and Kezia were growing old, many of their children having moved to Utah Valley for a longer growing season and shorter winters, and decided they needed to do the same (White, p. 247). Kezia passed away in 1915. In 1917, George and Donald Gail (known as “Gail”) Fisher purchased the 4,000-acre Cluff ranch. The brothers’ father, David, surely had consulted them on the decision, resulting in them mortgaging their livestock to make the purchase. Though David was retired, it

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References:

DUP - Daughters of Utah Pioneers. (1963). How Beautiful Upon the Mountains: A Centennial History of Wasatch County. Wasatch County Chapter of the Daughters of Utah Pioneers. • Fisher - Family search: https://www.familysearch.org/memories/ memory/105990321?cid=mem_copy • Cluff - Family search: https://www.familysearch. org/memories/memory/209550653?cid=mem_copy • Ringholz, Raye C. (1983). Diggings & Doings in Park City, 5th Edition. Park City, Utah. Raye Carleson Ringholz. • Strack, D. (2014, March 22). Park City Drain Tunnels. https://utahrails.net/mining/ park-city-drain-tunnels.php • Thompson, George A. & Buck, Fraser. (1993). Treasure Mountain Home: Park City Revisited. Salt Lake City, Utah. Dream Garden Press. • White, Marilyn Curtis. (1994). Keetley, Utah: The Birth and Death of a Small Town. Utah Historical Quarterly, Winter 1994. Volume 62 (No. 1), 246-260. [https://collections.lib. utah.edu/ark:/87278/s64m93vt/422236]

could be assumed that he was still well-informed. This inference comes because also, in 1917, Park City United Mining Company, who owned the Ontario Mining Company, decided to use the Ontario Drain No. 2 tunnel to haul ore from the mountain (Thompson & Buck, p. 99). It would be a little like building a station before the railroad arrived.

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A Helping Hand:

FREE FOOD PANTRIES SERVING PARK CITY AND HEBER VALLEY

In the heart of Summit and Wasatch counties, local food pantries are making a big difference for those in need. Serving Park City and Heber Valley, CCPC (Christian Center of Park City) pantries offer free food to anyone facing food insecurity, ensuring that no one in the community goes hungry, offering a place where needs can be met and help can be given. These spaces are a true gem of our small communities because they demonstrate how impactful small and local efforts can be. And that is nothing short of amazing.

What makes this effort truly special is the collaboration between dedicated staff, selfless volunteers, and local grocery stores. Every day, fresh produce, meat, eggs, milk, and bread are supplied from area supermarkets, ensuring that families have access to nutritious options. The pantries also work with food drives and USDA deliveries to supplement these efforts, stocking the shelves with canned goods and pantry staples so that the food is fresh, stocked, and ready to be handed out to those who come to its doors. Both the Park City and Heber Valley locations are open from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Sometimes it feels too good to be true… so, is the food truly free? It is, and the only question that might be asked is how many people you need to feed in your household.

What is House of Colour?

Pantry customers are limited to two grocery visits per month; each time you go to the pantry, you have the opportunity to choose enough food for the total number of people within your household. The only thing you need is proof of residency within either Summit or Wasatch counties. The pantries’ goal is to have an easy and seamless experience when you come to get your needs met.

Beyond the food, these pantries stand for something even greater—compassion and inclusivity. No matter your background, circumstances, or identity, everyone is welcome. There is no discrimination based on race, gender, age, religion, or any other factor—just a simple mission to provide support to those in our communities in need of it. Because of this, the food pantries are also a great place for volunteer work. Stocking, working the front desk, organizing mobile pickup and drop-off orders, and much more are available to the members of the community looking for a place to get involved. It’s a wonderful way to connect with other Park City or Heber Valley friends and make a difference within the small communities.

At the core of CCPC’s Heber Valley Food Pantry and Park City Food Pantry is a belief that a strong community takes care of its own. These pantries aren’t just about feeding people; they’re about nourishing hope,

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dignity, and a sense of belonging for all. They are about connection and understanding of one’s own home. They foster an environment of kindness, and they give opportunities to Park City and Heber Valley families. Whether you have food needs to be met, have a desire to volunteer, or just want to get more familiar with the community we live in, these pantries are a great place to visit and learn more about.

HELPFUL INFORMATION:

CCPC Park City Food Pantry Hours:

11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday to Friday Location: 1283 Deer Valley Drive Park City, Utah 84060

Phone: (435) 649-2260

CCPC Heber Valley Food Pantry Hours: 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday to Friday Location: 55 E Center Street Heber City, Utah 84032

Phone: (435) 657-5493

Website for any other informational needs: ccofpc.org/food-pantry/

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ABOUT US

The Ripple Effect of Your Shopping Spree

When you shop at Park City’s ReStore, you’re doing so much more than scoring great deals, you’re participating in a community-wide effort: supporting local sustainability and strengthening the community and improving lives through home ownership. The proceeds from your purchases go directly to fund Habitat for Humanity’s local home building initiatives, so you’re personally contributing to the construction of affordable homes in Summit and Wasatch Counties.

You’ll delight in the joy of discovery and the surge of satisfaction from finding that perfect piece of furniture, décor item, or appliance—at an incredible discount. Every ReStore patron has a story about their favorite find. From the antique armchair that now sits by the fireplace, to the retro lamp that’s become a conversation starter, these items transform a house into a home, and a space into your personal sanctuary. Each visit to ReStore is a unique experience, and what you find can often surprise you with its functionality, beauty, and value.The ReStore stocks hundreds of both new and used items in our boutique and home goods store, including furniture, artwork, lighting, electronics, home décor, building materials, housewares, appliances, and so much more.

Our inventory is refreshed daily so you never know when you might find the occasional antique or simply the perfect piece to complete a room’s look. Everything is 50% to 90% off retail prices and always a shopping adventure!

WAYS TO DONATE

• SPRING CLEANING

• MAKEOVERS

• DECONSTRUCTIONS

• CORPORATE

PARTNERSHIPS

PICK UPS

The Park City ReStore now offers two convenient options to have your new and gently used furniture, artwork, home décor, and building supplies picked up: Standard Pickups & Priority Pickups

DROP OFFS

We may accept new and gently used furniture, artwork, home décor and building supplies. Store team members have final say on what donations we will accept. Drop Offs available – Mon-Sat 10-4:30

6280 SILVER CREEK DR., PARK CITY, UTAH 84098 (Just beyond Home Depot by Silver Creek Village)

We are a short drive from Heber, Midway, Kamas, Coalville, Salt Lake City, and Evanston.

OPEN HOURS: MON – SAT 10AM-7PM

LexieLarson: © Best Version Media

TAKE A HIKE PHOTOGRAPHY

“Only when the light is just right, when the sound coming from the photo is loud. I love taking loud photos. All ears and nose,” Lexie Larson, owner of Take a Hike Photography, writes in her latest blog post, Nature Is a Showoff. Photos of droopy, floppy, pointy ears and cute little noses nuzzle their way directly into your heartstrings on her website and social media account. Lexie has been taking photos of nature and, more specifically, of animals, for more than a decade. In 2017, she decided to photograph someone else’s dog, which planted the seeds for her creative career today. Now, with customers along the Wasatch Back and in Salt Lake Valley, she’s getting ready for her next move: a studio.

Lexie presents as an observant, patient person, and her photography demonstrates the time commitment to get the right shot. Growing up in Charleston, the township close to where the Middle Provo River meets Deer Creek Reservoir, Lexie recalls, “I had lots of free time. I was always a creative kid, and getting to roam allowed me the space to lean into that more artistic, magical animal side of life.” She adds that observing animals can often be a waiting game.

Her visual storytelling transcends many different types of prints, “loud photos” arriving on materials from paper to canvas—the great big smile of a bulldog or even a donkey so meaningfully captured, pulling in some customers and their referrals for round two or three.

However, being a photographer is no simple business. Lexie must still spend time marketing, posting on social media and on her website while beholden to the same laws and policies that other Utah small businesses abide to. There is a delicate balance between maintaining artistic passion and not losing it in spreadsheets.

Even though Lexie’s apparent skills for photographing wildlife and domestic pets captivate like a mountain sunset, she yearns for more. There are aspects of her photographic style she aspires to capture. During our interview, she holds up a photo of a canine subject jumping to catch a ball over Utah’s Salt Flats. Lexie describes it as a bucket-list item, the kind one might compare to climbing a distant peak or skydiving. “I checked it in-camera and finally did a happy dance. The sun was setting, my knees hurt, and I was cold, but it just felt good,” she says.

Once, on an assignment for Neighbors of Heber Valley, she packed her backpack full of cameras and lenses, hopped on a snowmobile, and rode up to a small cabin in Brighton Estates. It was snowing, and the clouds were hanging low, the inviting cabin warm and cozy.

Lexie’s eye trained to the most interesting aspects of that journey as she visually captured that hardy mountain couple, their dog, and the unique artwork inside their home, crafted outside in a snow-covered shed. Fine-art photography today is much different than it was during the days of film. Digital cameras capture details and information that can be rendered and altered in specialized editing software. Lexie likes to use Photoshop to help bring out her artistic style. The end results are amazing, alluring, and downright clean.

Despite the intense work and internal pressure of being a creative professional, she has found new relationships with every photo shoot. These pets and their owners have evolving stories that she follows, a timeline she is grateful to occasionally share.

As Lexie’s business grows, she adapts. The next step is opening her studio. She describes it as a bit intimidating, but she keeps showing up to

see it through. “I already have wall art for the space, but I need to get some new ones, like really huge, ginormous prints, and just decorate the space,” she explains. “I honestly feel like I’m in the flow state right now. Lots of things are lining up for me to control. I could take this studio, for instance, whatever direction I like.”

The studio will be in Sandy, but Lexie will continue to do her work in Park City and Heber, while having a showroom that dog lovers can feel and breathe. Although so much of our photographic experience is through a computer monitor or a phone screen, with digital photos having drastically improved in recent years, nothing compares to a 36-inch framed print of your pet.

It’s my pleasure to introduce you to Riggs. This scruffy-faced love bug is up for adoption through the Sugar Face Foundation. Riggs is a 1-2-year-old mix who is ready for his forever home. This boy gets along well with other dogs and loves people, I know this because I made quite good friends with him during the brief time I spent with him. He would do well in a family that has all the love and affection to give. Please reach out to Laura with the Sugar Face Foundation to meet this silly fella! Contact: (716) 969-7591

© Best Version Media

LOCAL RESCUES PAVE THE WAY FOR LOS ANGELES FIRE DOGS IN NEED

For weeks in January the world was riveted by news organizations airing unbelievable scenes of the raging wildfires ripping through neighborhoods surrounding the Los Angeles landscape, devastating several communities including Altadena and Pasadena and leveling over 10,000 structures, leaving residents, businesses, parks, and entire towns adrift in devastation and homelessness. Part of that collateral damage were the thousands of pets including dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, horses, and other farm animals facing an unknown and vulnerable future.

Within hours of the reporting, local and regional animal rescue groups and shelters sprang into action, using their integrated networks and resources of shelter partners, nonprofits, volunteers, and fosters to create solutions to get animals in safe shelter and out of harm’s way. Pasadena Humane Society alone reported over 1,000 domestic pets pouring through its doors and temporary shelters sprung up seemingly overnight to help house the vast numbers of displaced animals.

Within a few days, one of Utah’s most renowned rescues, Best Friends Animal Society, with facilities in Salt Lake City, Kanab, and Los Angeles, mobilized

its resources and started organizing transport, fosters, and volunteers, reaching out to many of its 5000 national partner organizations (eight in Utah) to help in the effort. To date, hundreds of dogs have been transported and relocated to Best Friends’ facilities throughout the state with over 100 dogs transferred to several area rescues, according to information on their website (www.bestfriends.org).

Several local Summit and Wasatch rescue groups have been a part of the rescue effort, including Midway-based Mountain Mama Pyrs and Pups (MMPP), Nuzzles and Company in Summit County, and Rocky Mountain K9, a dog boarding facility with operations in Park City, Grantsville, and Ogden.

For Rocky Mountain K-9 Owner David Kitchen, not helping wasn’t an option, as he watched the crisis unfolding. “I saw the fires happening and at this point in my work life I have a little more free time,” he said. “So, I reached out to Best Friends who offered us a stipend to help and put us in touch with some shelters in California that needed to clear kennels to make room for some of the displaced dogs. Within 24 hours we had organized a trailer, four volunteers, and we loaded up and hit the road,” he said.

Kitchen and his crew drove through the night and made contact with two Los Angeles-based animal shelters, Downey Animal Care Center and Baldwin Park Animal Care Centers where they pulled 25 dogs in total with the help of the shelters’ staff. Of the work involved, he said it took nearly a full day. “At our first stop it took about four and a half hours to load

WHERE YOUR PET GOES TO VACATION

While You’re on Vacation

Boarding & Daycare

Great facilities and loving staff make our pet resort the best place for your pet.

DROP-OFF & PICK-UP

(Boarding & Daycare Guests)

Monday- Friday

7:30am - 12:00 pm • 1:00 pm- 6:00 pm (closed from 12pm-1pm for lunch)

Saturday 8:00am-12:00pm • 3:00 pm-5:30pm.

We are closed Sundays and holidays for drop-offs and pick-ups.

© Best Version Media

up fifteen dogs and we got to the Baldwin facility with about an hour to spare to get ten more,” he said. Of the process, Kitchen said it went smoothly. “Downey and Baldwin were amazing to work with. The staff were so professional and seemed really grateful for our help. At the time it seemed like they were about thirty percent capacity, so it felt good to clear the kennels for dogs who were going to be needing temporary shelter for the families who lost their homes.”

Rocky Mountain K-9, a for-profit business that is working toward obtaining a nonprofit 501(c) (3) designation for a branch of the company, was quick to express gratitude for the assistance of the Midway-based nonprofit Mountain Mama Pyrs and Pups, which provided the necessary nonprofit paperwork to facilitate a shelter-torescue animal transfer. However, he noted that they did not waste any time. “We loaded up and left on a Wednesday night, without even having final approvals, but we knew we would figure it out,” he said.

At the time of publication, Kitchen said three of the twenty-five dogs he rescued have been adopted, and they are working on getting the remaining dogs vaccinated, spayed, and neutered with the help of the Nuzzles and Company clinic in Peoa. All of the dogs are larger breeds including huskies, shepherds, and mixed breeds. The youngest is about six months old. Adoptable dogs are posted on his website www.rockymtnk9.com. In addition, Kitchen noted his facility welcomes volunteers to help exercise and socialize the dogs and contributions to assist with their ongoing care.

Mountain Mama Pyrs and Pups, a nonprofit dog rescue located in Midway, was also involved in the rescue effort. Executive Director Ashlie Kinkaid Blackham was originally notified through a private group, The Utah Shelter and Rescue Network, where shelters post dogs in need to official rescue groups, but even before that, she

knew rescues were already gearing up to help. “As with all natural disasters we expect there are dogs that are going to be displaced and that shelters in other states will need help. Recent disasters like the hurricanes down south, flooding in Texas, earthquakes, now the fires, the rescue world has become really efficient in creating networks where rescues can get connected and take action.”

She further explained that the rescue’s job is to help clear the kennels of dogs already up for adoption. “We don’t ever take the displaced dogs, we clear the shelters so the shelters can take the displaced dogs. This ensures they have an opportunity to be reunited with their families when the crisis has ended,” she said.

While she initially signed up to take in several dogs from the posted list, Blackham said the response was so overwhelming she didn’t actually procure the ones she had tagged. However, in the process, she had already reached out to Kitchen to see if his boarding facility could accommodate. “Because of David’s boarding facility, my emergency placement for big dogs is always David,” she said. “He always says, ‘Absolutely, yes, bring them! How can I help? I’ll go get twenty of them, I’ll get fifty! I’ll do everything!” she laughed.

Best Friends connected Kitchen and Kinkaid Blackham directly with L.A Shelters in need and Ashlie got to work organizing the rescue contracts which includes a requirement to vaccinate, spay and

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neuter all dogs in the procurement, and the transfer process, a promise to which Kitchen is committed.

A few days after Kitchen’s rescue trip Kinkaid Blackham was contacted by one of the LA Shelters who needed assistance with additional dogs, and transported seven dogs to Salt Lake City for inclusion in her rescue. Kinkaid said she took in a Great Pyrenees, a Belgian Malinois (both of whom have been adopted), and five chihuahuamix dogs who will be available through her website www.moutainmampyrsandpups.org.

Nuzzles and Company in Summit County assisted the effort on multiple levels, according to Executive Director, Leslie Barcus, providing spaying and neutering services for 11 of the dogs brought in from Rocky Mountain K9, and taking in five of the puppies transported by Best Friends. “We felt that our most appropriate response was to offer vet services and take in puppies where we had a local dog population gap,” she said.

Looking ahead, while Kitchen said he didn’t see evidence of dogs who needed a longer-term foster situation, Ashlie believes there will be a need for foster solutions for dogs whose families want them back but need more time to get into permanent housing. “We all need to save space or make space if we’re needed in the future. We have a wonderful rescue community here in Utah and we’re all here to help dogs, no matter where they come from or how much care they need,” she said.

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Dr. Reed’s office is committed to making this advanced technology accessible to the community. Book your DEXA Scan today and start your journey to better health. Learn more about how this stateof-the-art technology can benefit you by visiting Dr. Spenser Reed’s website or call 866-360-3945.

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Veterinary Urgent Care Available On Weekends!

Bark City Veterinary Specialists and Urgent Care offers Urgent Care services on Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 8pm and a Veterinary Specialty practice Monday through Thursday. We are an easily accessible, walk in Urgent Care, for when your regular Veterinarian is unavailable. Our Urgent Care treats urinary tract infections, wounds, lacerations, vomiting, diarrhea, ear issues, broken bones, broken toenails, and many more common non-life threatening, but urgent medical concerns. We have x-ray, CT, in house lab, and Quick Scan ultrasound capabilities offering state of the art care for your pet when they need it most.

10am-3pm | Willow Creek Park

Celebrate your best furry friends at the 3rd annual Bark City Festival!

• 5K Dirty Dog Run

• Face Painting & Kids Corner

• Vendor Booths

• K-9 Demonstration

• Food & Music

• Doggie Playtime

Are you a potential Vendor or Sponsor?

Please contact Alicia Ackerman at (435) 645-9363 or alicia@pcahba.com