Neighbors of Park City August 2025

MARTIN DRAYTON THE MOST INTERESTING MAN IN SUMMIT COUNTY

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EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS

DAY SPA EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR

Allie Vacanti

Spa Manager • Align Spa 1792 Bonanza Dr., Building C, Ste 130 Park City, UT 84060 435.647.9300 • relax@alignspa.com

WELLNESS & ESTHETICS EXPERT

Dr. Giselle M. Batcheller

Wellness And Esthetics wellnessandesthetics.com 1816 Prospector Ave., Suite #203 435-631-2113

CLEAN LIVING EXPERT

Dana Grinnell Free Living Co. dana@freelivingco.com 208-869-6866

DENTAL WELLNESS EXPERT

Dr. Ryan Osorio Rise Wellness 1800 Prospector Ave., Park City, 84060 435-214-0544 risedentalwellness.com

PSYCHOTHERAPY AND COACHING EXPERTS

Ashley Montague, MA, AMFT, ACMHC Tracey Dwyer, LMFT (805) 319-1870 StillPointUtah.com

EDUCATION EXPERT

Jennifer Billow Vice President of Advancement Park City Education Foundation (435) 615-0235 pcef4kids.org

COLOR AND STYLE EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR

Julie Hickam House of Colour Julie.Hickam@houseofcolour.com 435.315.2258

REROOFING EXPERT

S and S Roofing

Emergency Repairs & Free Estimates Utah’s #1 Roofing Company 435-658-4344

AESTHETICS AND PLASTIC SURGERY EXPERT

Dr. Renato Saltz

Saltz Plastic Surgery and Spa Vitoria 1441 Ute Blvd. Suite 140, Park City, UT 84098 435-216-9876 | saltzplasticsurgery.com

EARLY PREVENTION MEDICAL EXPERT

Dr. Spenser Reed Park City DEXA pcdexa.com info@pcdexa.com

INSURANCE EXPERT

Bryan R. Daybell

Bryan R. Daybell Insurance Agency, Inc. 1960 Sidewinder Dr, Park City, 84060 bryan@bryandaybell.com 435-649-9161

RENOVATION & CONSTRUCTION EXPERT

Jenn Lewis, Owner Ghigau Construction | (801) 941-4508 www.ghigauconstruction.com jenn@ghigauconstruction.com

REAL ESTATE EXPERT

Annett Blankenship

Keller Williams Real Estate 693 Main St., Park City, UT 84060

annett@parkcityinvestor.com 435-602-9976

EVENT EXPERT

Tom Brazill Elevate Event Bartending 801-477-4452

tom@elevateeventbartending.com elevateeventbartending.com

WINE EXPERT

Pamela Wood Park City Wine Club info@ParkCityWineClub.com ParkCityWineClub.com

WELLNESS OPTIMIZATION EXPERTS

WOW Clinics

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

INTERIOR DESIGN EXPERTS

Franky & Tam

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

FINANCE AND TAX EXPERTS

Danielle M. Meister, CFF®, CDFA® Madrona Financial & CPAs 833-673-7373 daniellem@madronafinancial.com

HOLISTIC AND INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE EXPERT

Autumn Bear M.S., L.AC, DIPL AC Autumn Bear Wellness Collective 5532 Lillehammer Lane, Suite 102 Park City 84098 | autumnbear.com

NATURE PRESERVATION AND EDUCATION EXPERT

Emma Lowe Swaner Preserve and Eco Center 1258 Center Dr.,Park City, UT 84098 swanerecocenter.org | (435) 797-8940

LOCAL NEWS EXPERT

KPCW

Spencer F. Eccles Broadcast Center PO Box 1372 | 460 Swede Alley Park City | UT | 84060 | kpcw.org 435) 649-9004 | (435) 655-8255

PLUMBING EXPERT

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

ANIMAL HEALTH EXPERT

Dr. Carl Prior Park City Animal Clinic 1725 Sidewinder Dr., Park City 84060 435-649-0710

PET NUTRITION EXPERT

Heide Fowler, Owner Healthy Pets Summit County 435-214-7963 healthypetssummit@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

WOMEN’S WELLNESS EXPERTS

Erin Seamons Earthy Erin earthyerin.com | 435-200-5778 info@eathyerin.com

Rachel Friedman Stoke Coach stokecoach.com rachel@stokecoach.com

BETSY DEMANN

Publisher bdemann@bestversionmedia.com

JACQUIE SYMES

Assistant Publisher jacquie@bestversionmedia.com

MITCHELL OLSEN

Account Executive 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!

Meet Deb DeKoff— artist, educator, survivor, and storyteller.

Deb graduated high school early, became a licensed cosmetologist, and used those skills to fund her college education. By seventeen, she was photographing weddings, styling hair, and decorating cakes at her "One Stop Wedding Shop." During this time, she was recognized by Kodak for excellence in black and white imagery.

She went on to earn a MS in education and leadership. A cancer diagnosis led her to advocacy: joining the Huntsman Research Advocacy Committee, founding a breast cancer

L. COOK

support group, and receiving scholarships from Susan G. Komen, SABCS, and Project LEAD. She’s spoken out for research funding and legislative change and continues to give back through the Huntsman. Today, Deb is a photographer for Neighbors magazines in addition to owning Park City Photographers. Her landscapes are featured in art shows, Park City Hospital, and private collections. Her work has appeared on album covers, websites, Forbes, Disney, and more. She was

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

voted Park

and Park City's Best Teacher several times.

When she's not behind the camera, Deb inspires middle schoolers through the power of art.

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

City’s Best Visual Artist

MELISSA FIELDS

OWEN CRANDALL

DEB DEKOFF

DANA KLEIN

KRISTEN PIERCE

LEXIE LARSON SARAH SEVERSON

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BEHIND THE SCENES WITH:

DanTewksbury

Club Manager at The Chateaux Residences and Operations Manager of Stein Luxury Homes

When it comes to creating unforgettable experiences and delivering top-tier service, Dan Tewksbury plays a pivotal role at the Stein Collection. Since 2019, he has managed 19 residences within the exclusive Stein Eriksen brand. Dan manages operations at the Chateaux Residences, in addition to overseeing nine luxury homes in the Stein Eriksen Residences, ensuring every guest enjoys an extraordinary Park City escape time and again.

“I oversee the day-to-day operations of the Chateaux Residences,” Dan explains. “I lead a team of managers who handle concierge services and bell staff, and behind the scenes, I take care of scheduling, budgeting, and forecasting monthly expenses.”

Originally from Minnesota, Dan moved to Montana for college before making Park City his home in 2009. His career has been defined by dedication, community, and a deep passion for guest service. Dan’s hospitality journey began at Cole Sport ski shop, followed by roles at Promontory Golf Club and Deer Valley’s food and beverage team. In 2014, he joined Stein Eriksen Lodge as a concierge—a role that would profoundly impact both his personal and professional life. It was there that he met Jacqi, who shares his love for hospitality. The two married in 2018.

“When I came to Park City in 2009, I planned to spend just one winter here—but I’m still here,” Dan says with a smile. “Jacqi and I bounce ideas off each other and understand the industry’s demands, so we support each other through it.”

Today, the Chateaux Residences thrives as a premier destination for luxury travelers.

Perfectly located steps from Deer Valley’s iconic Silver Lake Lodge and ski lifts, the property features spacious three- and four-bedroom accommodations and world-class amenities. But what truly sets it apart is the thoughtful care and expertise of people like Dan.

“My customer service experience at Cole Sport really helped me transition into luxury hospitality,” Dan notes.

Whether it’s ensuring a morning espresso is ready after a fresh snowfall or overseeing the smallest details in each residence, Dan approaches his work with a mission to exceed expectations.

“Every day, I assess staffing needs—making sure we have enough team members to handle guest requests like transportation into town,” Dan says. “We also ensure the concierge staff can efficiently answer phones and emails and manage dining and activity reservations. It’s all about keeping things running smoothly.”

On the Luxury Homes side of his role, Dan is available to guests 24/7. He personally meets

them at their home, offers a tour, and assists in coordinating activities during their stay. Before guests arrive, he checks in with homeowners to align on availability and address any maintenance needs.

“I make sure the homes are always guestready so they can be booked as soon as they’re available,” Dan explains. “I also help onboard new properties and manage rental reservations. It can mean long days, but good time management and prioritization keep everything on track.”

Dan’s dedication to providing seamless experiences for both homeowners and guests reflects his love for hospitality and his pride in working for Stein Eriksen.

“Stein really takes care of us,” he shares. “They offer great perks that extend to our families. I met the CEO on my first day—they take the time to know everyone on the team.”

In a place where world-class slopes and stunning mountain views take center stage, it’s the people behind the scenes who truly make the experience memorable. Dan’s leadership and passion exemplify the spirit of hospitality that defines the Stein Collection. Whether welcoming first-time visitors or longtime guests, he creates an atmosphere of warmth, care, and excellence, ensuring that every stay feels like coming home to something extraordinary.

BY AIMEE L. COOK

PHOTOS BY DEB DEKOFF

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THE WISCONSIN OLD FASHIONED

The Wisconsin Old Fashioned is a regional twist on the traditional Old Fashioned. This version uses brandy instead of whiskey as the base spirit. Also the incorporation of muddled fruit (both a cherry and an orange slice) is another major difference. The brandy itself offers a much sweeter and smoother overall profile. The cocktail is then finished with a variety of washes. Either soda water, lemon lime soda, or a sweet and sour mix to create three distinct variations. Sweet (soda like Sprite), sour (sour mix), or Press (a more sophisticated, boozy seltzer option).

Why brandy? Apparently, this was due to the amount of German immigrants in the region, and how easily available brandy was post-World War II. Or, possibly due to the extreme cold conditions in the area, locals were led to creating a drink they could warm their insides with and using the brandy allowed them to down a few more?

Prep time: 5 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 ½ oz Brandy

• ½ oz Simple Syrup

• 1 Maraschino Cherry

• 1 Orange Slice

• 2 Dashes Angostura Bitters

• ½ oz Soda Water, or Lemon Lime Soda, or Sour Mix

• Optional: Cherry and/or Orange slice for Garnish

DIRECTIONS:

Start by muddling a cherry and an orange slice in the bottom of an old fashioned glass. Add bitters, simple syrup, brandy, and ice then stir for 5-10 seconds. Wash (or top) with one of the listed options. Garnish with another cherry and orange wedge. Sip away…feel the warm embrace.

Did you try it? Tag me on Instagram @elevateeventbartending

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SPRINGER FARMS

Where History Meets Modern Luxury in Midway, Utah

Springer Farms isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a destination rich in history. The original building was built in 1874, and this storied property offers guests a unique blend of historic charm and luxurious modern finishes, thanks to a thoughtful restoration by its current owner, David Springer.

"Midway has always been a special place for me. I never imagined I would own this property; it has been a wonderful tribute to Midway and the Springer legacy," David shared. "Everything we have done has been done with that in mind. We want it to be a place of gathering for the people and visitors of Midway."

Whether you’re in town for hiking, dining, or simply seeking a serene escape, Springer Farms provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable stay.

A STEP BACK IN TIME

Springer Farms carries with it a history as rich as the surrounding landscape. The property became the residence of the Springer family in 1899. Passed down through generations, it stands as a testament to Midway’s heritage, with its quaint European-inspired architecture blending harmoniously with the mountain scenery. Over the years, the property retained its timeless charm, but it wasn’t until 2023 that David Springer decided to breathe new life into this historic gem. His vision? The Robey Building, completed in 2024, transforms the space into an Airbnb experience that celebrates both the past and the present in stunning fashion.

In 1859, David's great-great-great-grandparents, Jeremiah and Ruth Robey, entered the Heber Valley and, with four other families, settled two miles south of the town square in an area called Smith’s Grove. Just a few years later, Swiss pioneers arrived and established a settlement a few miles to the north. These were known as the upper and lower settlements. However, due to hostilities from local natives in 1866, the two groups united and constructed a fort at what became known as the

“midway point.” This new central settlement eventually earned the name Midway, reflecting the collaborative spirit of these early pioneers.

By 1874, Jeremiah Robey had purchased the land that Springer Farms now occupies, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. Then, in 1899, Matilda Robey Springer built the original Springer home, an enduring symbol of family and history.

A MODERN RENAISSANCE

David Springer’s renovation of the property in 2023 wasn’t just a facelift; it was a full-scale transformation designed with today’s traveler in mind. Each element of the renovation honors the farm’s history while incorporating upscale features that redefine comfort and style.

Springer retained the property’s iconic European vibe, accenting it with high-end finishes that elevate the aesthetic. The result is a blend of eight suites that combine old-world charm with modern luxury, where historic beams meet contemporary design, and every corner tells a story.

"We wanted to have a luxury spot, a place where guests could feel at home and be cozy and yet still be higher end," David said.

MODERN COMFORTS, ULTIMATE CONVENIENCE

Within walking distance, guests can access local shopping and a variety of eateries, making Springer Farms location on-point. On-site, locally owned retail stores include Flower Bar Co, Folklore Bookshop, Haven Haus Co, Lueur Nail Salon, and Midway Studio Collective.

“We were able to learn from the city of Midway as we got involved with the planning for this property," David said. "They shared surveys they had on what the residents of Midway wanted. The combination with the retail shops came from that."

INDULGE IN CULINARY ELEGANCE

Transform your dining experience with our exclusive Private and Personal Chef Service! At Culinary Elegance, we bring your gastronomic dreams to life, whether it’s an intimate dinner or a grand celebration.

Let our talented chefs weave their culinary magic at your table, delivering a luxurious dining experience that knows no bounds.

Your exquisite journey starts here. Discover a new standard in fine dining with Culinary Elegance! 435 655 1449 thymetodinecatering.com

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For those seeking to explore beyond the nearby amenities, Springer Farms provides easy access to all of the outdoor adventures and cultural experiences that make Midway a favorite destination in northern Utah.

Springer Farms features eight beautifully designed rental units, including three 2-bedroom suites, making it an ideal destination for families or even small groups.

Explore the charm of Springer Farms for yourself and experience the magic of a destination that feels like home, with a touch of sophistication.

BOOK YOUR STAY TODAY, AND GET 10% OFF AS A READER OF NEIGHBORS MAGAZINE!

Website: www.springerfarmsmidway.com

Instagram: @springerfarmsmidway

WEEKDAY EATS & LOCAL TREATS

MOUNTAIN RESORT

L I V E M U S I C

SWEETEN THE

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IT’S AUGUST FESTIVAL SEASON ACROSS UTAH!

Opening with the Kimball Arts Fest, August 1-3, Park City

Raspberry Days, August 7-9, Bear Lake Dinah “Soar” Hot Air Balloon Days, August 22-24, Vernal

Moab Music Festival starting August 27th to mid September

Golden Onion Days, August 28 – September 1, Payson

And, the seventh annual UTAH WINE FESTIVAL August 29-31, Cedar City

Yes, you read it right; the 7th annual Utah Wine Festival!

“Utah’s premier event for wine and culinary experiences. Now, in its seventh year, the festival showcases exclusively Utah wineries from around the state as well as the culinary creations of some of Utah’s best chefs experiences that are not available at any other wine festival”. Check out all the fun. A schedule of events and culinary creations can be found at utahwinefest.com!

Even more significant is what took place only 6 weeks ago on June 25th as 25 of us industry people; educators, sommeliers, winemakers, wine buyers, writers, and restaurateurs from all over, gathered at Stein Eriksen Lodge in Park City for a blind tasting, named, “Utah vs. the World.”

There were two tasting categories; Super Tuscan and Cabernet Sauvignon, some of the biggest, most popular red wines in the world. Five glasses, each numbered, laid out in front of us. This was the Super Tuscan tasting. Super Tuscan wines are generally a blend of international grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot or others, and the native Italian variety, Sangiovese.

First, we were told the wineries of which we were tasting and asked to identify our top two choices. Second, we were asked to see if we could identify which wine was from which winery.

Valley Mountain, Utah. The result, Terra 5047 ranked 1st place in front of Chateau Lynch-Bages!

I guarantee, it’s not what you might be thinking. You and your palate will be more than pleasantly surprised with the quality of the wine, the amazing events, and the culinary delights from Utah’s Top Chefs.

How can I be so certain? Well, I’ve been a wine judge for a few years for the Utah Commercial Wine Competition (and these are no amateur wineries) so I’ve been able to taste the wines and see the progress over the years. Plus, I’ve been able to enjoy the festival, seminars, tastings, farm to table dinners, and more.

We were tasting some of the very best: Antinori, Gaja, Montepeloso, Uccelliera, and Terra 5047 of Pine Valley Mountain, Utah. The results were surprising – all 25 of us blindly tasting, ranked the Terra 5047 from Utah either the 1st or 2nd favorite out of the 5 wines. This tied the Terra 5047 Sangiovese blend with the renowned Antinori Tignanello!

Next, it was time to repeat the same exercise for the Cabernet Sauvignon. Once again, we were tasting some of the best; two from Napa and two from Bordeaux, France: Caymus and PlumpJack of Napa Valley, and Chateau Palmer of Margaux and Chateau Lynch-Bages of Pauillac, respectively. Then, of course, the Terra 5047 Cabernet Sauvignon of Pine

Terra 5047 (named for the elevation of the winery) and many other Utah wineries will be pouring their wines for you at the Utah Wine Fest in Cedar City this Labor Day weekend. If you can’t make it to the festival, consider embarking on a choose-your-owntasting-adventure for a couple of days by visiting some of the most beautiful scenery and surprisingly great wines. Utah has 11 bonded wineries and The Utah Wine Trail features five of these wineries. Never heard of the Utah Wine Trail? Well it’s time you discover it and taste these wines: IG Winery of Cedar City, The Vineyard and Zion Vineyards of Leeds, Bold & Delaney of Dammeron Valley, and Water Canyon Winery which can be found at two locations, Hildale or Springdale. You can check it out and learn more, including the grapes that are growing right here in Utah – utahwinetrail.com.

Terra 5047 isn’t on the wine trail (yet) as it sits 15 miles high up outside of St. George in rugged ancient soils. Renowned Sonoma winemaker Pete Seghesio told me the soils are like that of Argentina and at just the right elevation to produce exceptional fruit. Look for Terra 5047 wines on wine lists coming to our local restaurants. Want to taste some sooner? If you’re a member of Park City Wine Club we’ll be showcasing four of their wines at the members-only PC Wine Club Anniversary event on August 24th. Join the club and see all our events in Park City and the greater Salt Lake area. There are usually 2 to 3 events a month – something for everyone in the world of wine!

Blind tasting Utah vs World

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DATES TO REMEMBER:

Summit Land Conservancy’s Blue Sky Bash

@Blue Sky Ranch Wanship, UT

If saving land sounds even better when paired with heavy pours, tasty grub, and a rowdy auction, round up your buckaroos and join us for the 2025 Blue Sky Bash—the biggest hoedown (and showdown) this side of the Weber River! Because yes, saving land should be fun. Early bird tickets are $500 for a limited time, so don’t lollygag—giddy up and saddle up today! Prices rise on July 12.

Time: 5:30-10:30pm

Cost: See website for details Website: www.wesaveland.org/happenings

WE LOVE SHARING LOCAL HAPPENINGS!

To feature your event in a future issue, email jacquie@bestversionmedia.com.

Just be sure to send it in by the 13th of the month before your event date

Family Friendly Bracelet Making Class

@Park City Library 1255 Park Ave, Park City

Visit the Park City Library for a fun and creative Bracelet Making Class designed for all ages! Whether you're a crafty kid, a DIY-loving parent, or just looking for a unique way to spend time together, this hands-on workshop is the perfect activity for the whole family. For more information visit our website.

Time: 2-4pm • Cost: Free Website: ParkCityLibrary.org

Park City Song Summit

@City Park, Library Field, Jim Santy, & The Marquis

Song Summit is a different way to experience a music festival, emphasizing wellness, mental health, addiction recovery & inclusivity. We invite you to Park City Song Summit to immerse yourself in the storytelling of the human experience, prioritize your well-being with dedicated wellness activities, and revel in music performances of some of the best artists of our time. Your ticket offers you the ability to feel true social impact and the chance to leave changed and inspired. Headlining Artists include: Goose, Greensky Bluegrass, Dawes, Marcus King, Cimafunk, and more!

Time: See schedule on website

Cost: Ticket prices and packages vary Website: parkcitysongsummit.com/

Junction Jam Music Series

@Junction Commons 6699 N Landmark Drive, Park City

Join us for The Junction Jam, an electrifying live music series held at Junction Commons in Park City. In collaboration with Mountain Town Music, we’re bringing the best local and regional talent to the stage, creating the perfect soundtrack for your Sunday afternoons.

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Whether you’re a fan of rock, folk, blues, or indie vibes, there’s something for everyone at The Junction Jam. Enjoy great music, delicious food from local vendors, and a vibrant community atmosphere – all in the beautiful setting of Park City. A variety of delicious offerings from local food vendors. The Border Food Truck and Dos Hermanos will be offering 15% off during the events. Family-Friendly Fun: Activities for all ages in a lively outdoor setting The Junction Jam is your Sunday destination for live music and community fun!

August 24: Mobius Wave • September 28: Shannon Runyon

Time: 4:30-6:30pm • Cost: FREE • Website: junctionjampc.org

Last Friday Gallery Stroll

@Historic Main Street, Park City

Hosted by the Park City Gallery Association, the Last Friday Gallery Stroll, is a fun (and free) monthly community event dedicated to highlighting artists and special exhibits at art galleries throughout town. Park City’s art scene continues to thrive, offering a robust variety of unique art collections from local, national, and international artists. On the last Friday of each month, nineteen of our art galleries open their doors for visitors and locals alike to enjoy light refreshments and to admire their latest art installations. It’s the perfect way to explore the Park City art scene while enjoying scenic Historic Main Street and our beautiful alpine evenings.

Time: 6-9pm • Cost: Free • Website: https://parkcitygalleryassociation.com/

Park Silly Sunday Market

@Main Street, Park City

Park Silly Sunday Market continues! Don’t miss out! Join us on Historic Main Street in Park City for a day full of local flavor, live music, one-of-akind finds, and seriously silly fun.

• Eco-friendly open-air market

• Local + regional artists, makers, and crafters

• Live music & street performances

• Gourmet food vendors

• Vintage, antiques, and totally unique treasures

Bring your friends, your family, and your market bags and come see what makes Park Silly one of the most beloved summer traditions in Utah.

Time: 10am-5pm • Cost: Free Website: parksillysundaymarket.com/

Miner’s Day Celebration

@Park City Municipal 445 Marsac Ave, Main Street, and Park Ave

The Miner's Day Celebration is the longest-running event in Park City and has been happening for over 130 years. The event celebrates Park City's mining legacy and begins with a fun run and pancake breakfast, which is followed by a parade and culminates with games and mucking and drilling at City Park.

Time: 6am-1pm • Cost: Free • Website: parkcity.gov

IT'S

THE BUZZ

BY AIMEE L. COOK

Park City’s Historic Main Street comes alive with the vibrant Park Silly Sunday Market on select Sundays. Now in its 19th year, this free street festival is the ultimate celebration of community, creativity, and sustainability. Local artists, crafters, and vendors fill Main Street with their unique creations, transforming it into a bustling marketplace that supports small businesses in the area.

The market has something for everyone. From live music and delicious eats to booths filled with one-of-a-kind treasures.

Driving there? The easiest place to park is at Park City High School, where you can leave your car for free and hop on the City Bus straight to the action. If you prefer to park closer, limited paid options are available at the China Bridge parking lot and the Old Town area.

Mark your calendar and join in on the fun, festivities, and flavor at Park Silly Sunday Market: August 31, September 7, 14, 21 • 10 am-5 pm

Get ready for the 2025 Strider Cup World Championship in Salt Lake City, Utah!

Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 20, 2025, when two-wheeling tots ages 2-6 from around the globe will race to show off their skills at The Gallivan Center. It’s the first time this exciting event is returning to the USA since 2019, and we’re thrilled to bring the World Championship back to SLC for the first time since 2017.

Watch young riders build confidence, make international friends, and feel the thrill of competition in Sprint and Adventure-Cross Stage Races. Enjoy food trucks, swag bags, cheer stations, and more as families from all over the world gather to celebrate the joy of riding Strider bikes.

“Getting a group of little kids together to play on bikes is always fun. Getting hundreds of kids together from all over the world is crazy fun. And, it is about so much more that just riding the bike,” said Ryan McFarland, founder of Strider Bikes.“This really is the biggest event these little kids have ever participated in. The excitement, the crowds, the singular responsibility to get their bike from start to finish without Mom or Dad assisting...what a big day for them! It is also a great mix of participants from many states and many foreign countries. For many kids, this is their first time interacting with kids who have a different accent or speak a different language. We hope to have people from Japan and China, Costa Rica, Canada, Ecuador, Europe, and more.”

Date: September 20, 2025 Time: 8am-7pm

Location:

The Gallivan Center, 50 E 200 S Salt Lake City, Utah

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UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE PARK CITY LIBRARY

Yoga on the Patio on Thursdays at 9am - Join us for an hour-long yoga class focused on mindful flow, alignment, breath, and building community. This class is open to all levels and abilities, and we encourage everyone to attend. Please bring your own yoga mat or towel.

Pet Cents on August 1 at 2pmKids will practice financial skills when they adopt a pet in an interactive game.

Summer Slide Party: End of Summer Reading Celebration on August 9 at 11am - Enjoy slip and slides in the Library field while celebrating the end of summer reading.

Vision Clinic on August 9 from 12-4pm - Get a free comprehensive eye exam and, if needed, a pair of prescription glasses. Open to all—no appointment required. This event is bilingual.

Making Moo’la on August 11 at 2pm - Kids will practice basic financial skills as they run a farm in an interactive game.

Virtual: USU Extension Investing Series Pt 1 on August 11 at 6pm - A financial literacy class on investing, register online at parkcitylibrary.org/events.

Local Speaker Series: Pat Cone on August 12 at 6pm - Join us for our Local Speaker Series with Pat Cone a local photographer and author.

Charlas en la Cocina on August 13 at 10am - Come eat traditional Latinx dishes and discuss mental health.

Virtual: USU Extension Investing Series Pt 2 on August 13 at 6pm - A financial literacy class on investing, register online at parkcitylibrary.org/events.

Hogwarts Legacy Live Art Demo on August 20 at 5:30pm - Come to the Library for a unique and interactive digital art painting demo with talented artist, Vanessa Palmer, who worked on the iconic Hogwarts Legacy video game!

Puzzle Races on August 27 at 10am - Race to complete a 300-piece puzzle first. Register a team of three or sign up to be placed onto a team.

Dementia Friendly Sing Along on August 27 at 1pm - Enjoy a dementia-friendly luncheon at the library with a free lunch provided by JFS/MAG, along with light games and a cheerful singalong.

Branching Out Art Demo with Nancy Ness on August 28 at 3pm - Using acrylics and decretive papers Nancy Ness will give a demo on how she develops her mixed media paintings.

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THE LOCAL

COMMUNITY NEWS FROM KPCW

Whether you live, work or play in the Wasatch Back, KPCW is your only nonprofit source for daily news in Summit and Wasatch counties. “The Local” from KPCW delivers the latest headlines straight to your inbox weekday and Sunday mornings, keeping you informed and connected to your community. Subscribe for free at kpcw.org.

Park City to explore Deer Valley-Richardson Flat aerial connection

By Parker Malatesta

The Park City Council wants to explore the potential of an aerial transit route between Deer Valley’s Snow Park base and Richardson Flat east of U.S. Highway 40.

The preliminary gondola discussion June 26 stemmed from a broader plan to redevelop the Main Street area.

Councilors are also interested in an aerial route connecting Deer Valley’s base and the China Bridge parking garage on Swede Alley.

Separately, they’d also like to see Park City Mountain’s Town Lift upgraded to a gondola.

Park City Mountain installs Sunrise Gondola towers by helicopter

By Connor Thomas

Park City Mountain installed some of the 24 towers that will support the new Sunrise Gondola July 3, using a Black Hawk helicopter. The gondola has taken two summers to build and is expected to open for the 2025-2026 ski season.

Park City Mountain Vice President of Mountain Operations Mike Lewis says that’s how most lifts are installed: the helicopter drops in the tower, then the cross arm and grooved wheels that the lift cables run on. A video of the installation is at KPCW.org.

The 10-person gondola will replace the two-seat Sunrise lift. It’s the resort's first new lift or major lift upgrade since 2019, when it added Over and Out to help move skiers out of the Tombstone area at the end of the day.

Park City gains state approval for PFAS compliance plan

By Parker Malatesta

Park City’s water system is the first in Utah to earn state approval for its compliance plan to manage a group of chemicals called PFAS, commonly known as “forever chemicals.”

Public confidence in Park City’s drinking water has dramatically increased in the past decade. In 2022, 75% of residents surveyed ranked the city’s water as “excellent or good,” compared to 43% in 2011.

KPCW’s Summer Pledge Drive kicks off with a FREE community celebration you don’t want to miss:

Back Alley Bash

Friday, August 22 | 5 - 9 PM

Pack a picnic to enjoy the live music and family-friendly activities in Park City’s City Park!

Public radio stations like KPCW keep our community connected through fact-based reporting, local storytelling, and civil discourse. But we can’t do it without your support.

Donate during the Summer Pledge Drive and help keep local radio strong.

To maintain water quality at second homes, which are abundant in Park City, flushing the pipes is recommended. If homes are left vacant for a month or more, water quality can decline so it’s important to bring in a fresh supply.

KPCW relies on local support to keep news and programming strong in Summit and Wasatch counties. Your contribution helps keep our community informed, connected and supported. Give today at kpcw.org.

REAL ESTATE AGENTS JOIN HANDS WITH HABITAT FOR HUMANITY TO BUILD A BRIGHTER FUTURE

Everyone deserves a place to call home. That’s the powerful belief driving the inspiring partnership between local realtors and Habitat for Humanity in the Wasatch Back. Together, they’re making a monumental impact by facilitating affordable housing opportunities for working families in the community.

“It was essential for our Board to focus more on affordable housing,” says Mark Jacobson, Past President of Park City Board of Realtors and one of the local agents involved in the initial project four years ago. “We believe in our community and know that everyone should have a place to call home. We’ve all had clients and friends in need of affordable housing and this was an amazing way to contribute.”

BUILDING HOMES AND BUILDING CONNECTIONS

Through the partnership, realtors have been actively participating in Habitat's build days. Brokerages across the region have rolled up their sleeves, hammered nails, and painted walls. These hands-on experiences have garnered a deeper appreciation of what it takes to create accessible housing solutions.

“Park City Board of Realtors and all of the surrounding communities have these options, and we wanted to spread more awareness of all of the opportunities," Mark explained. "We had to go to Mountainlands Community Trust and multiple other sites to find availability of homes. I have been friends with Jason Gliddon for many years, he came and spoke at a few events and helped us have a better understanding of the opportunities both present and

future. We are happy to see him in his position at Mountainlands with all of his prior experience."

THE IMPACT ON THE COMMUNITY

For years, Habitat for Humanity has been a provider of hope for working families, helping them achieve stability through affordable housing. By addressing the need for diverse housing options, Habitat empowers families with a renewed sense of pride and security.

This mission aligns perfectly with the goals of local realtors.

“Our Board feels as though there is a housing crisis for affordable units or workforce housing, so we are trying to bring awareness and raise funds to support the nonprofit organizations that are making a difference in that capacity," said Jamie Johnson, CEO of Park City Board Realtors. "So we support Habitat for Humanity and Mountainlands Community Trust. We have also supported initiatives that our local municipalities have created to help with the crisis."

The collaboration is an example of what can happen when people come together to support their neighbors. Whether it’s donating time, money, or expertise, the realtor community is stepping up to help Habitat for Humanity continue its vital mission.

“This partnership [with Habitat] shows that our agents, although in a luxury market, truly care about our community," Johnson said. "It shows our community that we care about the workforce and the people that need to live here in order to make the community what it is."

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HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF SUMMIT & WASATCH COUNTIES

Founded in 1995 as a 501c (3) nonprofit organization, Habitat for Humanity of Summit & Wasatch Counties, Utah (“Habitat”) is part of a global, nonprofit housing organization.

Habitat is dedicated to eliminating substandard housing worldwide through constructing, rehabilitating and preserving homes; by advocating for fair and just housing policies; and by providing training and access to resources to help families improve their shelter conditions – ultimately creating pathways to economic stability.

Habitat for Humanity was founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a decent, affordable place to live in dignity and safety, and that decent shelter in decent communities should be a matter of conscience and action for all. Habitat is the only provider of a unique and needed combination of program services in the rural-agricultural and tourism-based communities along the eastern slopes of the Wasatch Mountains.

ABOUT HABITAT FOR HUMANITY INTERNATIONAL

Founded in Americus, Georgia, USA, in 1976, Habitat for Humanity today operates around the globe and has helped more than 9.8 million people obtain a safer place to sleep along with the strength, stability and independence to build better lives.

CAMERAS AND CRITTERS: THE SECRET LIFE OF A WETLAND PRESERVE.

Nestled between a major interstate, bustling shopping area, cozy condos, and idyllic neighborhoods sits an unsuspecting environmental oasis. Swaner Nature Preserve doesn’t seem like much, to the passerby it may seem like an empty swath of grassland. If you look closer, you may notice a family of kestrels teaching their scraggly fledglings to fly and hunt, a momma moose and her two calves feasting on fresh willow branches, or a lonely badger sneaking into its cool den.

Swaner Preserve is host to 52 species of animals, not including nearly 170 species of birds. Approximately 80% of animals in Utah will utilize a wetland during their lives, but only 1% of Utah is made up of wetlands and 75% of those wetlands surround the Great Salt Lake. The Preserve’s wetlands serve as an essential resource for animals that live in or pass through Park City, acting as a place

for critters to rest, cool off, forage, access water, raise young, and more.

In our mission to restore critical wetland habitat, camera traps are a resource we use to monitor wildlife on the Preserve and help direct conservation efforts. Our conservation team generally has 3-5 camera traps deployed during the summer at any given time. This helps us know what critters are using the Preserve and how they are using it. Camera traps or “trail cams” are motion sensor cameras, built to withstand the

elements. They are often used by hunters, wildlife researchers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Our team strategically chooses areas with signs of wildlife activity to place the trail cams. The cameras are mounted to a t-post, existing post, or tree. The cameras then capture images for 2-3 weeks before our team collects and sorts through imagery to separate blank photos and identify animals in the photos.

So far, our camera traps have captured a variety of wildlife across the preserve. On

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Kimball Creek, a Great Blue Heron perches on the streambank, fishing for its next meal. Mule Deer cautiously lead their fawn through the willows, grazing along the way. Fox and coyotes scurry past. The occasional butterfly lingers on the grass long enough to be captured in a photo. Trail cams are an important resource for conservation and outreach at Swaner Preserve, and helpful to habitat restoration for the species that live there.

Our camera traps require a whopping 8 AA batteries each! Which can be wasteful(and not to mention expensive!), this year we switched to PaleBlue AA rechargeable batteries to further our mission to preserve and restore natural lands both on and off the Preserve. Want to cut down on your single battery use? Check out our gift shop, where we sell reuseable PaleBlue batteries! Looking to borrow a camera trap and see what critters are in your yard? Reach out USU Extension Summit County, contact Elizabeth Cohen.

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SPECIALIZING IN:

• Residential Renovations

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OTHER SERVICES OFFERED:

• 3rd Party Construction Management

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“We would highly recommend Ghigau Construction! We have worked with them and on two different projects now and the attention to detail and communication are excellent. Also they use a great online portal to help you monitor and review the status of each project.

When Ghigau is on the job they truly manage every element of the project (even unforeseen events) in a way that inspires confidence when you are out of town. We have trusted Ghigau Construction with our high end projects and continue to find more work for them to do for us.”

- Gerry & Jenny S. - Homeowners

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BY LACY HARRISON

PARK CITY REAL ESTATE MARKET UPDATE

As fellow Park City residents and local real estate experts, I can honestly say that our town's popularity continues to grow. Surrounded by the breathtaking peaks of the Wasatch, we live in one of the most sought-after spots for luxury living, incredible vacation homes, and outdoor adventures that look straight out of a magazine. Whether you’re enjoying a sunrise over the mountains, hitting the slopes, or unwinding with a drink in hand while taking in the view, Park City offers it all—and our vibrant real estate market reflects that same energy.

Here’s what’s happening on the ground: MARKET UPDATE: WHAT WE’RE SEEING

Our median home price now sits at around $2,750,000—up 8% from last year. It’s a sign of how much demand there still is for owning a piece of this mountain magic. Homes are selling quickly, averaging just 45 days on the market, which is down from 52 days. If something catches your eye, you need to act quickly.

In Q2 of this year, about 250 homes closed, keeping our market active but balanced— definitely a good sign of steady growth. Plus, with around 300 new listings hitting the scene in the same period, there’s still a solid selection for folks looking to make Park City their home.

PROPERTY TYPES & TRENDS

From the charming historic Old Town cottages, to sleek Deer Valley ski-in condos, and expansive estates in Promontory, our market offers something for everyone:

Luxury is still leading the way—whether it’s a quaint Old Town home, a top-tier ski-in condo, or a grand estate with sweeping mountain views, these properties continue to attract serious interest.

NEIGHBORHOOD VIBES

Old Town: It’s a neighborhood with character— historic homes amidst a lively, walkable area full of shops, galleries, and après-ski spots that make it perfect for locals and visitors alike.

Deer Valley: For those of us who love hitting the slopes, Deer Valley remains the gold standard for luxury ski living—private chalets, stunning views, and that unbeatable ski-in/ski-out convenience.

Promontory: This gated community offers peace and privacy, along with world-class amenities, wide open green spaces, and views so spectacular, you just can’t get enough.

LOOKING FORWARD

The high-end market is still strong, with demand for luxury properties outstripping inventory, which keeps prices firm—definitely good news if you’re thinking about selling. Out-of-state buyers, especially those from California and Texas, remain eager to invest in what we have here, viewing it as a mountain retreat and a wise long-term investment. While factors such as interest rates and global shifts may slightly alter the landscape, I believe our market will remain resilient and vibrant.

If you’ve been thinking about buying, selling, or are just curious about where we’re headed, now’s a great time to stay engaged. We’re in a good spot, and I’m here to help if you want to chat about local opportunities or catch up on what’s happening around town.

Ways to Win with the Hudgens and Harrison Team... We are passionate about the people of Park City and want to help you find “Ways to Win” with your real estate goals in 2024. If you would like to know what your house is worth or what your buying power actually is - we would love to meet with you!

Gretchen: Over fifteen years in the global luxury hospitality industry, Gretchen takes a concierge-style approach to work with discerning clients worldwide. Her extensive and diverse experience in hospitality and marketing, coupled with 10 years in Park City real estate gives her a unique perspective and knowledge. Gretchen sits on the Board of Directors for the Board of Realtors, the Legislative Committee, the RPAC Committee, and the Affordable Housing Committee. You can find her enjoying the mountains when she’s not working with clients.

Lacy: With personable and attentive service at the forefront, Lacy is known for her expertise, professionalism, industry knowledge and ability to deliver big results for her clients. Lacy has a unique ability to connect with the most discerning clients, having worked for the NFL for 15 years in marketing, specializing in negotiations internationally. Lacy also owns the small business, PEAK|45, a luxury boutique Lagree fitness studio here in Park City. You can find Lacy, her husband and two little girls skiing the slopes in the winter or biking in the summer and are proud to call Park City their forever home.

Jessie: After establishing a successful business in Park City, Jessie transitioned to real estate, fueled by her passion for interior design. She leverages her design skills to create beautiful, functional spaces, assisting clients in all facets of real estate, including home preparation for the market. When not working, Jessie enjoys skiing, hiking, and spending time with her two children.

Gretchen Hudgens 435-901-1015

Insta: @gretchenhudgens

Email: Gretchen@winutah.com

Jessie Lannings

858-952-4742

Insta: @jessielanningrealestate Jessie@winutah.com

Lacy Harrison 858-525-3434

Insta: @lacykharrison

Email: Lacy@winutah.com

Lacy

Gretchen

Jessie

“I love seeing someone get better and suddenly be able to do something that they couldn't do. That's what makes it for you when you're an instructor. It’s that breakthrough, and it’s a gift.”

MARTIN DRAYTON

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PARK CITY LOCAL, MARTIN DRAYTON WAS A SNOWBOARD INSTRUCTION FORERUNNER. IT WAS NOT A LIKELY SCENARIO FOR A NATIVE-BORN ENGLISH SKATEBOARDER. However, because of European investment in ski marketing, he was influenced by United Kingdom television programming like Ski Sunday and later became a technical presenter on Board Stupid, which highlighted snowboarding in the Alps. Anyone in the UK who wanted to schüss headed to France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria––anywhere but home––skiing, and eventually snowboarding, with chalet guides. Martin had become one of those “chalet guides”; however, by navigating the massive gap in certified snowboarding instruction, he laced together the pathway for new snowboarders to shortcut that era’s incredibly weird learning curve.

THE BOARD STUPID SHOW

The UK’s Board Stupid show presented snowboarding video clips and invited guests to visit a French chalet to learn the sport. Martin often taught these guests. “A lot of people started through that program, and they saw that snowboarding was more of a lifestyle.

In 1983 Les Arcs, France, Hervé Maziol and Didier Lafond produced a short snow-sports film: Apocalypse Snow. It opened like an original 007 movie with a gang of monoskiers descending powdery alpine exposure in pursuit of a snowboarder, saying, “This man with his ‘snurfer’ is faster than us (translated).” It showcased the magic of snowboarding in deep snow.

That’s where Martin discovered the film, only a year later while on a ski vacation. He had to get on a snowboard.

A friend in Les Arcs put him on a Winterstick snowboard in Valfréjus, France, in 1985. “We had a go, and it was pretty much a disaster,” describing a frightening scenario in which he nearly lost a friend.

THE ROUTE TO CERTIFICATION

“The French had instructors who liked to snowboard and eventually introduced snowboarding as a ski instruction course module. Then you could teach snowboarding. You couldn't go in as a snowboarder, and just teach snowboarding,” Martin explained. “They weren't as committed to the sport.”

Before he knew it, his interest in snowboarding led him to teach camps in the French Alps, continuing with an already great career ski guiding. He operated out of Chalet Snowboard, a destination lodge that took clients all over the alps on their ski vacations.

Martin and his fellow pro snowboard instructors struck a deal with the French Ski School, where his clients would still attend a few days of traditional ski-school snowboard instruction. Afterward, they could take the real snowboard lessons from Martin and crew. However, the guest experience with the French Ski School replaced enthusiasm with despondence. Martin described a rather dire result, “We would have to take guests to a quiet place on the mountain and rescue the situation.” These potential snowboarders were on the cusp of losing interest in snowboarding’s infancy.

Traveling to Austria in the ‘90’s, he sought snowboard instruction certification. Afterward in the UK, he paired with a Welch instructor with whom he wrote “Dry Ski Slope Qualification Manual,” and created a snowboard instructor qualification. Together, they certified instructors through the BSA, or British Snowboard Association. It was a little later when BASI, or British

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Association for Ski Instructors, wanted to team up. Between the two organizations, eight instructors, including Martin, they hammered out what would become the snowboard instructor’s qualification manual. Today, that manual is still in play, largely unchanged.

ONCE IS ENOUGH

Upon moving to the United States in 1999, the AASI, or PSIA-AASI –Professional Ski Instructors of America––American Association of Ski Instructors, invited him to help develop their snowboard instruction platform. Martin determined that they were about eight years behind the European mark (that he had helped create) and told them, “I’m sorry, I can’t go through this again.” Designing a snowboarding instructors’ qualification from the ground up in the US might have

seemed easier given his extensive experience in the field, but for Martin, once was enough.

The French chalet for which he had been guiding, invited him to go to Park City and work part-time at their new chalet. Park City’s ski school offered him a teaching role. The Park City chalet fell through that same year, so Martin started instructing full-time at Park City Mountain Resort, PCMR.

Snowboarding had only just been allowed on the mountain a few years earlier, in 1996. During the summer months, he continued guiding in France, on glaciers.

Martin was traveling back and forth when he and his wife decided to start a family. Thus, 2007 marked the end of his summer guiding

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career abroad. Park City became their permanent home.

BOARDERCROSS

FLIGHT ATTENDANT

When he finished his last season in France, Martin began working summer operations at PCMR. After thirteen seasons Martin felt he needed something different.

Delta Airlines was hiring flight attendants in 2014, that was when he decided to apply. Even though he first hired on with SkyWest, he signed on with Delta a year later.

“Until I took that job, we couldn't really afford to go back to England. My wife and I have family there. This meant that we could go back. We go on holidays within the US. And I took my wife and my daughter to new places. My daughter and I used to do daddydaughter trips every summer,” Martin said. But the airlines offered something else he could not have expected: ski and snowboard clubs.

“The clubs host three domestic events at different resorts every year, and they have one snowboard event which is giant slalom. I took my giant slalom and slalom board,” Martin recounted. Not only had he been a prolific snowboard instructor, he had also competed on the mountain.

competed at the World Championships in Morro Bay, California. And no matter where he went, he was always one of the fastest, even though he was much older than his competition.

The first time he broke the slalom speed record was October 2nd, 2007, as recorded by Guinness World Records, at 12.83 seconds. In Hyde Park, London, 50 cones, each five and a half feet apart (slightly tighter than was normally raced in Europe) competitors pushed as far as they wanted into it (to gain speed), and the timing went from the first cone to the last cone. Martin competed in the rare event put on by Chinese television franchise, Record Breakers.

He asserted on the spot that he could immediately beat that time, but refrained only to go back one year later and ran the course two seconds faster, smashing his record, albeit unofficially, since Guinness officials were absent. It wasn’t until July 2014 that his fifty-cone speed record was officially broken by Mikael Hadestrand in Sweden with a time of 9.73 seconds. As one might expect, Martin and Mikael are friends.

ACCIDENT & DIORAMA

Martin attended a few of their events, including some international competitions in places like Lake Placid and Big White. “Big White is where the Canadians hold their national border cross events,” he explained, elated at the event’s potential.

IT BEGAN ON A SKATEBOARD

“I was seventeen when I started slalom skateboarding. It was 1977, and it was all over the TV. I saw it and wanted to try it!” Martin said, almost like he was reliving the moment, recalling the early days of the niche discipline.

“We used to collect coke cans and we would turn up at the park with this massive bag of cans,” said Martin, laughing. “We'd put them down like slalom cones and go around them on our skateboards.” They excelled quickly, not realizing how formidable those skills had become.

“After a year or so, a friend and I went to the British championships. We ended up first and second. We had no idea, and we got sponsored,” still reveling in the irony of the win.

But then he let it go for six years, entertaining life’s other distractions. “Then, one sunny day,” Martin picked up his skateboard, likely covered in dust, and arced it once more through the cones. “And the next thing, I was on the British team and went to Paris for the European Championships!”

Working at the chalet, he would take summer guests snowboarding in the morning and longboarding (a long skateboard designed for flowing arcs on roads) in the afternoon. The town also held a longboard slalom race, which Martin usually won. Martin competed across the globe. In 2005, he

In his twenty-fourth season at Park City Mountain, Martin was teaching snowboard lessons at Canyons when a skier ran over the back of his snowboard catapulting him backwards to the ground, fracturing his MIPs helmet. As he struggled to breathe, one of his students––trained in first-response––was his closest help. Even though it was a terrible way to end the season, he is grateful circumstances were not worse, for his wife’s and daughter’s support, and Park City’s mountain community at large, who got him through it.

Painful deep breaths and chronic headaches permeated his recovery. With a spinal fracture and a seven-month recovery involving several surgeries to rebuild his vertebrae, he had to find something to keep his mind busy.

SCALE MODELING

Martin embraced scale modeling, a hobby he had discovered during the pandemic lock-down. “Scale modeling” encapsulates a specialized niche of artists who build models of cities, historical scenes, or events, even fictional crafts and characters. World War II tanks and soldiers are his particular interest. He is fascinated by the psychology of “what people can make themselves do.”

“Where did they put their gear? They hung it on the outside, because they didn't have room inside the tank. So, I tie the helmets on with a tiny cord, rather than glue them on,” Martin said.

“I went to a museum in England and they had a German Tiger tank. This thing is 65 tons. What makes someone stand in a trench, holding a rifle, feeling the ground shake as twenty of these are coming towards them, and stay there?” Martin ponders the quandary, which humanity faced during war, relative to how most of us respond to emergencies or threats.

Martin uses dioramas to visually tell a story, conveying emotions connected to how we deal with such things. And as he usually does, Martin found a way to compete! As of this writing he is headed to the Rocky Mountain Hobby Expo.

Diving into the hobby led him to a great community of other modelers, many with more experience. His Facebook page, Emdee Scale Models, has also scaled to 25,000 followers. He shares the details and mastery with followers, holding nothing back. It’s only natural: Martin is a teacher.

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For Martin, it always comes back to teaching others to snowboard. His forty-season long career of guiding and teaching, the baseline for his passion, has not changed. “I love seeing someone get better and suddenly be able to do something that they couldn't do. That's what makes it for you when you're an instructor. It’s that breakthrough, and it’s a gift.”

Martin has taught, quite possibly, over a thousand instructors. Before he started his flight attendant career, he tallied eighthundred hours of lessons in that last single season. It’s a bit more relaxed for him these days, but he’s still at Park City, having just finished his twenty-third season.

When it comes to the influence he has had among snowboarders around the country and the world, he cannot quantify the impact. But the significance cannot go unnoticed. His work in the sport’s early days created a snowboard lifestyle and career pathway. Martin, the jovial, friendly, and happy instructor continues to pursue the snow, skate between cones, filling time with his family and entertaining his hobbies, much like the rest of us. However, competition connects him with the world, and this allows him to help others reach their breakthroughs.

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A PUBLISHED BOOK BY WITTY WRITERS WORKSHOP

Support the art of community storytelling! Pick up your copy of Neither Here Nor From There, a compilation of works by our wittiest of Witty Writers, at Lectura Lounge Park City during our program hours on weekdays, or ping Ray at 510.386.1009 to schedule a time to pick one (or more!) up.

They’re $20 each, with all proceeds going toward Witty Writers Workshop and Lectura Lounge. Or you can purchase one here:

https://store.bookbaby.com/Book?bookurl=neither-herenor-from-there

Check out more photos below of Witty Writers’ spokenword performance in May. It was an enchanting evening, where we witnessed bravery (boldness) at its best!

READING BUDDIES/ COMPADRES DE LECTURA AND GIRLS ON THE RUN

Readers are our future BOLD, BEAUTIFUL leaders!

Thank you to Claire Trapp, Lorraine Stuecken, Mara Barth, and Patrick Green for holding down the reading rampart while Ms. Judy has been out and about with those Girls on the Run, who celebrated together at the Lounge after their last outing.

We’ve been going strong, every Monday and Thursday from 5:00-6:15 p.m., since January 18, 2024! (We added Mondays shortly thereafter) Fuego continues to provide our Thursday meals at a sweet discount, and ginormous thanks once again to Twilight Rotary Club of Park City, which funded our Monday meals for an entire year.

JOIN OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS!

Feeling bold? Got time, talent, and treasure? We’re looking for someone who’s just as passionate about literacy, multilingualism, and community-building. As a director, you’ll help steer Lectura Lounge towards a sustainable future and ensure that it continues to have adequate resources to advance its mission. Email us at info@caseyandcharleys.org if you’d like to chat about this opportunity!

WHAT A VOYAGE, VIA DIVERTIMOS VIAJANDO!!

The magnificent Marcela was out of town in June, most likely having bold bundles of blasts, so we’ll catch you up on our Wednesday ¡Divertimos! sessions next time. As for Divertimos Viajando!!, here is the usual remarkable recap from the extraordinary Elsa: Our “Divertimos Viajando!!” class wrapped up the season in the best way possible! We spent five amazing months traveling through: Spain, Argentina, Costa Rica, Perú, and México, and we celebrated the journey with an unforgettable multicultural party!

LECTURA LOUNGE

• Traditional games like elástico and jump rope

• Music

• A piñata that was smashed with ALL the energy

• Delicious food shared by all the families

• We handed out certificates of attendance

• Awarded the student with the most stickers

• And everyone received a surprise gift as a thank-you for being part of this adventure!

To all the families: THANK YOU for your support, trust, and enthusiastic presence.

We’re now taking a summer break, but we’ll be back soon to explore another Spanish-speaking country—there are still so many left to discover together!

UPCOMING EVENTS!

Keep those nosey noses to the ground for a possible CLOTHING SWAP in July—to help reuse, reduce, and recycle—as well as a SURPRISE event in the fall. As if you haven’t already had enough of bold boldness in this here newsletter, I’d like to share two quotes that I copped from Carrie Colbert’s website:

“Be bold or italic, never regular.” (A favorite of copy editors in particular.)

“Be bold enough to use your voice, brave enough to listen to your heart, and strong enough to live the life you’ve always imagined.”

READING BUDDIES Monday and Thursday, 5:00 – 6:15 p.m.

READING INSTRUCTION WITH SERENA Monday at 3:45 p.m. $5 a class; RSVP @ 435–565–1509

WITTY WRITERS WORKSHOP Tuesday, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.

DIVERTIMOS VIAJANDO!! Friday, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.

DROP-IN HOURS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY CALL 510-386-1009 CONTACT US Address: 1960 Sidewinder Dr., Suite 106 Park City, UT 84060

Email: info@caseyandcharleys.org Website: caseyandcharleys.org

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daniellem@madronafinancial.com

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BY DANIELLE M. MEISTER, EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR

TRUMP’S “BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL”

What It Means for Your Wealth

President Trump’s newly signed One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) is the most sweeping federal tax legislation since 2017. With dozens of provisions, this law presents a wide range of planning opportunities. From expanded estate tax exemptions and tax-free tip income to new retirement strategies and small business incentives, the OBBBA touches nearly every corner of the tax code. In this article, I’ve highlighted just a few of the changes most relevant to families with estates, real estate holdings, traditional IRAs, or small businesses.

A GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY FOR ROTH CONVERSIONS

From 2025 to 2028, the OBBBA allows retirees over age 65 to benefit from a powerful—but temporary—tax break: the Senior Bonus Deduction. This extra $12,000 deduction ($6,000 per individual) is added on top of the standard deduction and age-based deduction, bringing total deductions to an estimated $48,300 for eligible couples. To qualify, you must be 65 or older and have Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) under $150,000 for married couples (under $75,000 for single filers) to receive the full deduction.

Roth Conversion Example: a retired couple with $100,000 of AGI in 2025 would qualify for an estimated $46,600 in total deductions, including the standard deduction, age-based add-ons, and the new Senior Bonus Deduction. That brings their taxable income to roughly $53,400. With the 12% federal tax bracket topping out at $96,950 for married couples, they could convert up to $43,550 from a traditional IRA to a Roth—and pay only 12% tax. Converting now means paying today’s low tax rate and enjoying tax-free growth for life.

NO FEDERAL INCOME TAX ON TIPS?

YES—FOR NOW

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) gives service industry workers a temporary tax break: from 2025 through 2028, individuals can deduct up to $25,000 of tip income from their federal taxable income.

This effectively makes the first $25,000 in tips tax-free for eligible workers—think servers, bartenders, hairstylists, and drivers. Income phaseouts begin at $150,000 (single) and $300,000 (joint). Social Security and Medicare taxes still apply, but for income tax purposes, this is a rare four-year free pass on tips.

A BIGGER, MORE PERMANENT ESTATE TAX EXEMPTION

One of the most impactful provisions is the permanent extension—and expansion—of the federal estate and gift tax exemption. Instead of reverting to $7 million per person in 2026, the new law raises the exemption to $15 million per individual ($30 million per couple, with proper estate planning in place), indexed for inflation. This change allows families to pass significantly more wealth to the next generation tax-free.

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CAPITAL GAINS: NO RATE HIKE AFTER ALL

Fears of a capital gains tax increase have been put to rest—for now. The new law leaves long-term capital gains rates unchanged, keeping the top rate at 20% (plus the 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax for high earners). That’s good news for anyone planning to sell appreciated real estate, stocks, or a business. If you’ve been waiting for clarity before executing a major transaction, now may be the ideal time to move forward.

The law did not change 1031 exchanges. If you're preparing to sell highly appreciated investment real estate and want to avoid triggering capital gains taxes altogether, you can Section 1031 exchange into a Delaware Statutory Trust (DST). This passive real estate structure allows you to defer the 20–23.8% federal capital gains tax, 25% depreciation recapture, and state taxes like Utah’s 4.65%—potentially saving hundreds of thousands in taxes while generating ongoing income, without active management.

PASS-THROUGH BUSINESS OWNERS: QBI DEDUCTION MADE PERMANENT

For small business owners and real estate investors, the bill’s permanent extension of the 20% Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction is a major win. This tax break—originally set to expire in 2025—lets owners of S-Corps, LLCs, and partnerships deduct up to 20% of qualified profits.

pulse of federal policy. This legislation is a clear reminder: tax laws evolve, but wealth planning is timeless. Whether you’re retired, building a business, or preparing to transfer wealth to the next generation, there are real opportunities to improve your position.

Growing Your Wealth with Danielle Meister. For over 30 years, Madrona Financial & CPAs has been helping individuals and families improve their financial well-being. Madrona is headquartered in Washington State, while Danielle and her staff have offices in Park City and Cottonwood Heights, Utah – with clients across the United States. Call us for a consultation 833-673-7373.

The information, suggestions, and recommendations included in this material is for informational purposes only and cannot be relied upon for any financial, legal or insurance purposes. Madrona Financial Services will not be held responsible for any detrimental reliance you place on this information. It is agreed that use of this information shall be on an “as is” basis and entirely at your own risk. Additionally, Madrona Financial Services cannot and does not guarantee the performance of any investment or insurance product. Insurance products are offered through Madrona Insurance Services, LLC, a licensed insurance agency and affiliate of Madrona Financial Services. Madrona Insurance Services and individual advisors affiliated with Madrona Insurance Services and Madrona Financial Services receives commissions on the sale of insurance products. Clients are not required to purchase insurance products recommended or to otherwise implement financial advice through Madrona affiliates. When we refer to preparation and filing of tax returns, tax returns are prepared and filed by our wholly-owned sister company Bauer Evans, Inc. P.S., a licensed certified public accounting firm. Madrona Financial Services, LLC is a registered investment adviser with the SEC. Our registration with the SEC or with any state securities authority does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Madrona Financial & CPAs is a registered trade name used singly and collectively for the affiliated entities Madrona Financial Services, LLC (“Madrona”) and Bauer Evans, Inc., P.C. (“Bauer Evans”). Investment

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ensure that your tax-saving strategies are legal and appropriate for your financial situation.

*DST investments only available to accredited investors and offered solely through the issuers offering documents. DST sponsor determines whether to accept any individual’s subscription documents. To be an accredited investor, an individual must have had earned income that exceeded $200,000 (or $300,000

Dendric Estate SMALL TOWN STORIES

Brendan and Carly Coyle’s journey is defined by curiosity, hard work and leaps of faith. The owners of Dendric Estates, the 20-acre cidery in Kamas, met in 2009 when “Brendan interrupted my job interview at High West Distillery,” Carly remembers. Brendan was already a seasoned pro, having earned a master’s in brewing and distilling science in Scotland and helping High West emerge as a national whiskey brand. Collaborating well at the fast-paced distillery, “it felt natural for us to team up for a new chapter,” Carly recalls. And new adventures. After years of experimentation, the pair will launch Dendric Estate’s inaugural cider - called ‘Dry Cut’ - in July.

“We lived abroad where fine cider is treated like wine,” Brendan remembers. “We thought, ‘Why not make the cider we want to drink?’” Sounds simple, but “farming at 6,440 feet is hard,” he says of their sustainability commitment, requiring long hours of intense physical work in all weather. “We learned to be patient. It can take a year to know if

a decision helped or hurt.”

“So some evenings, we jump in the van, drive into the Uintas, and wake up to a quiet sunrise before getting back to work,” Carly adds.

“It’s a reset button we never take for granted.”

“Our cider is not what people think, so education is a big task,” Brendan reflects. ‘Dry Cut’ features natural carbonation – no forced bubbles – with a “bright acidity, tropical notes and a crisp minerality.”

You will find it next month at the on-site Dendric Estates packaging agency and at PC and Valley restaurants, but “it will be a few months before we are in the liquor stores,” he says.

With their hard-won sustainable techniques and new take on an oldfashioned favorite, the Coyles are ready for their much-anticipated debut – and couldn’t be more grateful. “Everyone we’ve worked with has been so generous,” Carly says, “It’s been a community effort in the best way.”

ROOTED IN PARK CITY:

The Local Touch Behind SavATree's Expert Tree Care

When most people think of tree care, they imagine chainsaws, pruning shears, and hard hats. But in Park City, Utah, the work runs deeper—it’s about preserving the mountain landscape, protecting wildlife habitat, and helping trees thrive in a high-elevation climate. That’s where the local team at SavATree steps in, combining science, skill, and a deep love for the outdoors.

SavATree may be a national company with over four decades of experience, but here in Park City, the story is local—told through the people who live and work among these trees every day. At the center of that story are three passionate arborists: Robert Dodson, Tom McCollins, and Cole Peterson. Each brings a unique blend of experience, technical know-how, and community connection to the trees and clients they care for.

“Every tree has a story, and our job is to help it live a healthy one,” says Robert Dodson, a seasoned Certified Arborist and a trusted face in the Park City community. With years of hands-on experience in high-altitude tree care, Robert knows what it takes to protect local pines, aspens, and spruce trees from the threats that come with mountain living—like bark beetles, drought stress, and winter injury. His approach is grounded in science, but driven by a genuine desire to protect the natural beauty that makes Park City so special.

Working alongside Robert is Tom McCollins, another Certified Arborist whose passion for tree care is matched only by his reputation for customer service. Tom has helped countless property owners navigate complex projects—from hazardous tree removals on steep slopes to customized plant health care programs that nurture trees year-round. “People here love their trees,” Tom explains. “They just want to make sure they’re cared for in a way that’s responsible and sustainable. That’s where we come in.”

Then there’s Cole Peterson, a rising star in the arboriculture world who brings a fresh energy and deep technical knowledge to every project. Whether he’s climbing a 70-foot fir tree or helping design a fire mitigation plan for a mountainside home, Cole’s dedication to excellence and safety sets him apart. “In this terrain, everything matters—soil type, elevation, weather patterns, even wildlife activity,” Cole says. “That’s why local knowledge is so important. You have to understand the ecosystem to take care of it.”

Together, this trio represents the heart of SavATree’s Park City operation—a team that understands the unique challenges and beauty of working in the Wasatch Mountains. But what sets SavATree apart isn't just its people—it’s the company’s mission: to enhance the health, beauty,

Fertilization and Soil Enhancement:

and value of every landscape, while remaining deeply committed to environmental stewardship.

Originally founded in 1978 to combat invasive gypsy moth caterpillars, SavATree has grown to become a leader in tree, shrub, and lawn care across more than 40 states. Yet, despite its growth, the company remains rooted in its founding principles: scientific expertise, environmentally responsible practices, and genuine care for people and their landscapes.

In Park City, those values shine through in every service—from precision pruning and eco-friendly pest management to wildfire prevention and soil health treatments tailored for Utah’s unique environment. Whether you’re a homeowner in Old Town, a resort manager in Deer Valley, or a property steward in Pinebrook, SavATree offers customized solutions to meet your needs—and help your trees thrive.

So, while the company’s reach may be national, the work done in Park City is anything but corporate. It’s personal. It’s thoughtful. And it’s powered by people like Robert, Tom, and Cole—tree care professionals who call this mountain town home and treat every landscape as if it were their own. Because here in Park City, trees aren’t just part of the view—they’re part of the community.

Through laboratory soil tests and a visual inspection of your property, SavATree’s professional arborists can assess the unique condition of your trees and the soil they grow in. Armed with that information, they can recommend the nutrient and soil enhancement regimen to help them thrive.

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BY RICHARD ELLIS PHOTOS BY DANA KLEIN

TAP WATER, PLEASE ARGUABLY, PARK CITY’S

WATER HAS NEVER BEEN SAFER—BUT PUBLIC OPINION

Anyone who’s moved to Park City over the last 15 years surely has had “the water talk.” A local gravely warns the newcomer not to drink water from the taps. It’s a historical mining town, goes the spiel, and heavy metals leach out of the old tunnels. Some locals remember 2007 and 2010, when brown water contaminated with heavy metals did, in fact, plague homes near Thaynes Canyon.

That event originally brought Michelle De Haan to town—and led to her role today as Water Quality and Treatment Manager for Park City Municipal Corporation.

A chemist by training, De Haan previously managed water treatment for Scottsdale, Arizona at a key turning point. “EPA had just come out with a huge laundry list of new contaminants that water systems had to monitor for,” De Haan says, referring to a 2001 regulation from the Environmental Protection Agency. Among other things, the agency set the first-ever limits for lead and copper in drinking water and reduced the acceptable level of arsenic from 50 micrograms per liter to 10.

Municipalities weren’t sure how to comply and needed specialists like De Haan to figure it out. She piloted new arsenic testing techniques that landed her a consulting job serving municipalities across the country.

One of those municipalities was Park City. De Haan was part of the team that sorted out the 2007 and 2010 contamination events (which had to do with metals stuck to the pipe walls). PC Municipal Corporation’s Public Utilities Director, Clint McAffee, asked De Haan what staff Park City would need to hire to ensure the water remained safe. “And so I had the opportunity to write my job description,” she says.

Since 2011, De Haan has helped orchestrate a $150 million overhaul of Park City’s water system, including $82 million to build the 3Kings Water Treatment Plant. She leads

CHANGES SLOWLY

this reporter and photographer on a tour of 3Kings to illustrate how it works. Anyone concerned with Park City’s water quality (76% of locals, according to a Utah State University survey) ought to do a tour. 3Kings is impressive on many levels. The architecture, inspired by the mining era, blends with the high-end homes on Three Kings Drive. Its micro-hydropower system converts incoming water into emissions-free electricity, covering 30 percent of the plant’s needs. The control room, resembling something out of a spy thriller, continuously monitors operations and water quality. The laboratory, meanwhile, looks like the world’s cleanest bar with its beer-style taps for 13 different water sources.

The multidisciplinary water treatment operators, part scientists and part “glorified janitors,” as De Haan puts it, are equally impressive. They learn how to do every task required to keep our taps flowing. No matter who is sick or on vacation, our 3Kings operates seamlessly.

In the lab, De Haan shows a sample of raw Park City water at its worst. It’s brownish red from metals. Eight heavy metals do run out of them-thar-hills: arsenic, cadmium, lead, zinc, antimony, thallium, iron, and manganese. 3Kings removes them all. No other facility known to De Haan handles that many.

As water flows from the Spiro and Judge Tunnels into 3Kings, the plant adds its housemade chlorine, raises the pH, and introduces an iron-based coagulant. The goal is to thicken the particles so they will settle to the bottom, allowing easy removal. The remaining, uncooperative particles get caught in filters.

From there, 3Kings lowers the pH to trap antimony in a pricey titanium dioxide adsorption media. At the last stop before distribution to Park City homes and businesses, 3Kings adds more chlorine for

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disinfection, blasts the water with the UV light to kill any remaining pathogens, and raises the pH to 7.8. No water is wasted. All that remains are cakes of dry, brown waste cakes that get trucked to landfill.

What about the chemical family PFAS, leached from fluorinated ski wax? That wax is now banned in town but found in our snow nonetheless (and used, I assume, by the same people who bike muddy trails and leave grocery shopping carts in parking spots).

Luckily, we have three water treatment plants serving our town of roughly 8,500 full-time residents. Water from 3Kings, which is PFAS-free, gets blended in tanks with

water from the Creekside Water Treatment Plant (which contains some PFAS) until the concentrations are below EPA limits.

“The quality of the water that we put out is top notch,” De Haan says. The well-intended “water talk” no longer corresponds to reality. Nevertheless, “There's still a heavy portion of the public that has a preference towards bottled water. And I think that's not just in Park City. That's all over the United States.”

We conclude the tour with a tasting of 3Kings drinking water. It comes out of a beer tap at a crisp 45° F. “I love being my own customer,” De Haan says.

SUMMER ADVENTURES AWAIT AT UTAH OLYMPIC PARK AND WOODWARD PARK CITY

EXCITED FOR SUMMER? WANT TO KNOW THE THRILL OF BEING IN A BONA FIDE OLYMPIC VENUE?

The Utah Olympic Park offers an array of thrilling adventures guaranteed to spark joy for adventurers of all ages. Tickets for the Summer Gold Pass and the incredible Summer Bobsled Experience are now available at UtahOlympicLegacy.org. Plan ahead to secure your spot and enjoy the best rates.

"What makes the Utah Olympic Park so fun and unique is the wide range of activities it offers," said Kole Nordmann, Utah Olympic Legacy Foundation Marketing and Media Production Manager. "From adrenalinepumping adventures like Extreme Tubing and the Bobsled Experience to more relaxed options like Guided Tours and Scenic Chairlift Rides, there’s truly something for everyone in the family. It’s a place where you can experience things you won’t find anywhere else in the country."

The Summer Gold Pass gives you access to everything you need for an action-packed, unforgettable day:

• Extreme Tubing: Glide down the iconic ski jumps for an adrenaline rush like no other.

• Extreme Zipline: Feel like a ski jumper soaring through the air.

• Alpine Slide: Enjoy a smooth, scenic ride on the mountainside.

• Action Tower (ages 3+): Perfect for budding adventurers with activities like tubing, climbing, airbag jumps, and a giant slide. Enjoy unlimited access to these and more, including the Discovery Ropes Course, in 3.5-hour morning or afternoon sessions.

"Instead of sitting inside this summer, you could be sitting on a seated zip line, or a tube that takes you down the biggest hill I’ve ever seen," said Katie O'Brien, patron. "Definitely go check it out if you have the chance."

Craving a once-in-a-lifetime thrill? The Summer Bobsled Experience lets you race down the historic 2002 Winter Games track at top speeds. Get ready for a heart-pounding adventure with one-hour sessions available throughout summer.

Pro Tips: weights are taken for every participant before loading onto an experience. Also, if you have ADA needs, notify someone at the Olympic Park front desk and they will do their best to provide

accommodations. They do have an ADAaccessible van to transport individuals directly to the venue.

For all the details on hours, activities, and ticket options, visit UtahOlympicLegacy.org Woodward Park City is the ultimate destination for families seeking both thrills and quality time together. Combining a summer camp spirit with the excitement of extreme sports, this 125-acre facility offers something for everyone, from beginners to seasoned athletes.

ACTIVITIES FOR ALL SKILL LEVELS

Woodward’s Summer Mountain Park is designed with Progression Zones to help visitors of any ability grow their skills in a safe, supportive environment. Families can start at the Start Park, where kids and adults new to outdoor sports can learn the basics of park riding. For those ready to elevate their experience, the next zones include beginnerfriendly jumps, wall rides, and a variety of challenging obstacles that allow progression at your own pace.

DOWNHILL MOUNTAIN BIKING FOR FAMILIES

Get the whole family on wheels with Woodward’s network of downhill mountain biking trails. These lift-served trails, accessible via the Hot Laps lift with bike carriers, are designed for all ages and skill levels. From smooth beginner trails to routes with banked turns, jumps, and wall rides, it’s an exhilarating outdoor activity perfect for both kids and adults.

SAFETY MEETS FUN ON BMX DIRT TRACKS

For families with little adventurers, Woodward’s BMX dirt jumps are a must-try! Practice jumping techniques on purposebuilt tracks, or safely land tricks into the small airbag. These thoughtfully designed features ensure fun and safety for riders of every age.

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TANA TOLY

MEET YOUR CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES Part 1

Park City's upcoming primary election on August 12 will narrow the field of candidates down to four who will advance to the general election on November 4. While each candidate will be actively campaigning and sharing their platforms in the months ahead, we wanted to take a moment to introduce them in a more personal light.

Here in Neighbors, our goal is to help you get to know the people behind the campaign signs. The familiar faces you might pass on the trails, in the grocery store, or at a coffee shop. Each of these individuals shares a deep love for Park City and a sincere desire to make it the best it can be. Spoiler alert: they really are just the nicest folks.

With a long-standing family legacy in Park City, Tana prides herself on having, “One foot in the past and one foot in the future.”

Tana swears by her 5 am morning routine. She spends two uninterrupted hours on herself, keeping her phone off. Her day kicks off with an icecold shower, followed by yoga, meditation, and breathwork. She loves hitting the trails for a run as the sun rises and recently set up a cold plunge in her garage. Like many Park City locals, she’s big on mountain biking and skiing.

JOHN KENWORTHY

John Kenworthy has been a resident of Old Town and a member of the Park City community for 24 years. John is the developer behind River’s Edge Resort in Wasatch County.

Tana is also passionate about personal development, dedicating time daily to becoming the best version of herself. She enjoys spending time with her two nieces, who are 4 and 10, and her nephew, who is 12 and on the Park City Nordic combined team.

“I am really into making sure my nervous system is balanced because all the things I do are a heavy load.”- Tana Toly.

John and his wife Nancy moved to Utah in 2001 and instantly fell in love with Park City. Both were nearing the end of their careers— he in real estate and she as an executive assistant to some of the world's wealthiest individuals. With her roots in Utah and family in Salt Lake City, the move felt like a natural fit.

Their passion for skiing and the vibrant community of Park City led them to become part of Main Street in 2008 as owners of Flanagan’s On Main Irish Pub & Restaurant. The restaurant holds personal meaning, named after Father Flanagan, a Catholic priest on the path to sainthood who helped turn John’s grandfather’s life around. They’ve been actively involved in supporting his cause for sainthood and cherish the connections they've built in this close-knit community. John is determined to ‘fix’ Park City.

“Our favorite event of the year is Savor the Summit, we get to show how much we cherish the community and we really go all out, we love celebrating the community on Main Street.”

- John Kenworthy.

BETH ARMSTRONG

Beth Armstrong has called Park City home for 20 years, currently residing in Aspen Springs, where she brings her expertise in both the non-profit and real estate sectors to the community. Beth grew up in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and southern values are at the heart of everything she does.

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Beth is a passionate hiker who enjoys thru-hikes and thrives outdoors. A former high school and college runner, she’s traded jogging for her true love of hiking. Beth also stays active by lifting weights, fly fishing, and mountain biking. She and her husband, Roger, travel and camp in their Airstream, making the most of nature’s offerings. On top of it all, she’s a proud mom to two kids: a son, Brett, who is a physician in Virginia, and a daughter, Jessica, an actress on Broadway.

Upon retirement, Beth plans to conquer the Camino de Santiago trail in Spain.

"I hike to keep myself balanced, I hike Timpanagos once a year, all the way to the top.”- Beth Armstrong.

JEREMY RUBELL

Jeremy Rubell, running for a second term, resides in Thaynes Canyon and has been a Park City resident for 12 years. He brings a strong background in management consulting and executive leadership to the role.

Jeremy and his wife Gretchen have been married for 11 years and are proud parents to two daughters, ages 7 and 10. The family has fully embraced the Park City lifestyle, where days are filled with outdoor adventures. During the winter, they hit the slopes for skiing, while summers are spent biking through scenic trails. Jeremy enjoys playing golf and the kids are also starting to learn the sport. It’s safe to say they make the most of everything Park City has to offer. They also enjoy going to City Park to listen to live music.

“I play golf, it is my zen time in the summer, and in the winter, I ski. If you are having a rough day and go up a mountain and look around, it's hard to stay stressed out. ”-Jeremy Rubell

CamLentz ©

BY PHOEBE ZANIELLO, YOUTH WRITER

At Park City High School, it is difficult to find a person who does not know the name, or at least the face, of Cam Lentz. Now a graduate, Cam was the Senior Class President of 2025, his final act as president being his speech at the Park City High School graduation ceremony in early June. Before this final act, Cam could be spotted at almost any school event, interacting with others and organizing the happenings of it. Though he enjoyed the constant responsibilities and activities of Student Council, he also describes it as a “massive time sponge.” However, despite there being no time in his schedule to do any sports, Cam chose to extend his time and impact beyond the high school community and into the Park City Community. During his senior year, Cam joined the National Honor Society (NHS) board, an organization dedicated to community service, leadership, and character development for high school students. On the board, he worked as the Senior representative and played a role in organizing Utah’s biggest food drive, which was done in partnership with the Park City Christian Center. Cam attributes his success on the NHS board to the number of personal connections he has with his peers. When students weren’t turning in mandated service hours, Cam could target each person directly, helping them complete the necessary volunteer work through personal conversations and interactions. He says, “When people don't have stuff submitted, I will oftentimes, instead of emailing them, call or text them because I know them personally, which definitely makes the job a lot easier.”

As both the Senior class president and NHS Senior representative, one of the most important things Cam needed to be was outgoing, a characteristic that never presented a problem to him. He’s an only child, and his mom’s parents live in Argentina (his mom is Argentine) and his dad isn’t close with his family. He views family as a safety net, the people who will always be there for you and help you forge connections with others, but he doesn’t have those types of relationships outside of his immediate family. Describing this Cam states, “I am so outgoing and social because I wasn't really intrinsically given that safety net of family and close connections that you'll always have forever. So I've spent so much time and effort going out of my way to make those connections because I didn't have them in the first place.”

Looking into the future, Cam hopes to apply his interests in human interactions to global interactions. Next year, Cam will be attending the University of Utah to study business administration. For him, this major presents a solid foundation for his dream job of working in international business and relations. That could perhaps be a position working in different consulates and embassies, as an ambassador or diplomat, but, whatever job he takes, Cam wants to make a political impact in the way in which countries interact with one another. He states, “I feel like the world needs more people who care in that political aspect, especially when it comes to interactions between countries on a global scale.” This became most apparent to Cam when he took a trip to the Middle East over two years ago. He absolutely loved the places he went, like Abu Dhabi, and grew a passion for Islamic studies, but he also recognized the high tensions and frequent conflicts that occur. Now, he wants to use his own skills for personal interaction to relieve tension for global interactions.

This notion aligns with one of Cam’s recent accomplishments, as he received the Sterling Scholar award for social sciences. In his eyes, his extroverted characteristics are largely connected to his interest in the social sciences. Cam says, “If you google ‘social sciences,’ Google will say that it is the study of how people interact. And I feel like I've spent a lot of time in high school interacting with a lot of different people. I love to interact with people and to

see different people's world views, and take what everybody else thinks into my own perspective.”

Throughout high school, Cam built on this idea, participating in many clubs and activities while accumulating different perspectives and watching new human interactions. Though he was initially into medicine, it soon became apparent that his passion could be found in the study of those interactions. However, he still encourages all students to take the offered anatomy and physiology class, as it hits on every single science and medicine related topic early, helping him discover his true interest. One of Cam’s only regrets of high school was not partaking in Model UN, a club that competes in forums that model the United Nations, practicing foreign relations and diplomacy. Though he believes this would have further spurred his passion for foreign interactions, his involvement in so many other clubs and events taught him the importance of interaction in a very literal, tangible sense.

When Cam sat down to write his graduation speech, it was these concepts and experiences that moved his pen. After spring break of junior year, he knew that he would be speaking at graduation and he started to keep a log of any ideas, interactions, and lessons he had encountered. With over a year of notes on his phone, Cam wrote his speech in about three hours, working with the Speech and Debate Coach, Ms. Williams. Within the speech, he discussed the platinum rule, which states that people should treat others how they want to be treated, and explored the differences between happiness and fulfillment. His most crucial message, however, was an ode to each of his personal interactions during high school. He stated “On a daily basis, on a one on one style, just make people feel seen. Even if it's for like thirty seconds to two minutes, take that time to view the person in front of you and realize that they are another human being with their own thoughts and emotions.”

Beyond high school, Cam continues to make people feel seen, and he encourages new high schoolers to do so by becoming involved in whatever they can, just like he did during high school. He says that the more you get involved, the more you care. As he enters a new era of his life, Cam will take this involvement with him, bringing his skills for personal interaction onto larger and more powerful scales.

PC Tots “Jump in the Sandbox” Event

On June 4th, the community came together to celebrate PC Tots’ Jump in the Sandbox event, an occasion filled with gratitude, reflection, and exciting plans for the future. This lively gathering marked another step forward in supporting early childhood education in our community and it was an event to remember.

“I became a Board Member and supporter of PC Tots because I know how important it is to invest in children from the beginning,” said Anne Sinnott, Board Member of PC Tots. “We can make a huge impact in a child’s life when we ensure they have a safe and stimulating environment to learn in while their parents are working in our community.”

BY AIMEE L. COOK

The celebration included special acknowledgements for Mary and Lindon Leader, whose valuable time on the PC Tots’ board and the creation of the Jump in the Sandbox logo continue to leave a lasting legacy.

Gratitude was also extended to the generous multi-year donors who make the PC Tots mission possible.

• Deb and Forrest Danson

• Brian and Kirsten Shirken

• Linda DesBarres

• Heather Koopman and The Byrne Family Foundation

• Robyn Milne with The Promontory Foundation

• Karen Conway and Joel Zarrow with The Park City Community Foundation

• Mayor Nann Worel and the City Council of Park City Municipal Corporation

PC Tots had some incredible news to share. Currently, there are three thriving centers, but with the launch of the Future Tots task force, sights are set on even greater horizons.

Over the next 5 to 10 years, they plan to expand into new spaces, bring centers to broader areas within the county, and create additional spots for children aged 0-3; addressing the community’s most urgent needs. Their vision remains to provide early

learning opportunities for every child, which relies on continued community support.

“We invite you all to Jump in the Sandbox with us and continue to support PC Tots with your generous donations, activism, and volunteering to support early childhood education in our community,” said Sue Banerjee, executive director.

Here’s how you can contribute to shaping the future of early childhood education in Park City:

• Contribute to PC Tots and help them grow.

• Volunteer your time to support the programs and initiatives.

• Engage with their efforts and spread the word about their mission.

To learn more about PC Tots and get involved, visit the website at https://pctots.org/

PC Tots

1850 Sidewinder Drive Ste. 410, Park City 84060 (435) 731-8860

PC Tots Too

1881 Prospector Ave, Park City 84060 (435) 731-8203

WHY PINEBROOK IS A GREAT PLACE TO OWN A HOME IN PARK CITY

Nestled in the rolling foothills of Park City, Pinebrook offers the perfect blend of mountain living, community charm, and everyday convenience—making it a favorite for full-time residents. Located just off I-80, Pinebrook provides quick access to both Salt Lake City and Park City, while still feeling like a peaceful alpine retreat thanks to its tree-lined streets, expansive trail network, and tight-knit neighborhood feel.

NEIGHBORHOODS & REAL ESTATE

Pinebrook is made up of several distinct subdivisions, offering diverse housing options that cater to a wide range of lifestyles and budgets. Lower Pinebrook features a variety of townhomes and condos at more accessible price points, including communities like Elk Run, Pinebrook Cottages, and Pinebrook Pointe.

Mid-range and more spacious townhomes can be found in neighborhoods such as Ecker Village, Quarry Springs, and Cedar Ridge, while Boothill and Pineridge are known for custom singlefamily homes set on larger, wooded lots with scenic views. The newer Discovery Ridge subdivision, located along Kilby Road near Woodward Park City, features modern new-construction homes surrounded by preserved open space and trail access.

In 2024, approximately 92 properties sold in Pinebrook through the Park City MLS. As of July 15, 2025, 42 properties have already closed—reflecting continued demand in this desirable community. BUYING OR

• Top performing team for KW Park City 2018-2024

• We sell an average of 50+ properties a year!

• 20+ years of combined experience

• Benefit of superior service, exceptional results, and strong ind

• Buy or Sell with us in 2025!

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HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

At the center of Pinebrook is Quarry Village, a convenient commercial hub offering everyday essentials. You'll find a grocery store, local dining favorites like Billy Blanco’s and O’Shucks, as well as salons, fitness studios, and other professional services. During the summer months, Mountain Town Music’s free concert series brings neighbors together for music and community fun.

Just around the corner, Pinebrook Park features multiuse sports fields, a playground, and picnic areas.

ENDLESS OUTDOOR RECREATION

Outdoor lovers are right at home in Pinebrook. Residents enjoy immediate access to miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, including popular hikes to the peak of Ecker Hill and biking the Mid Mountain Trail. Just down the road, Woodward Park City offers a worldclass, year-round action sports park featuring skiing, snowboarding, BMX, mountain biking, skateboarding, trampolines, and more.

TOP-RATED SCHOOLS NEARBY

Families appreciate Pinebrook’s proximity to some of Park City’s top schools. The community is part of the Park City School District and is located near Jeremy Ranch Elementary, Ecker Hill Middle School, and Park City High School. Charter and private options include the Weilenmann School of Discovery, Park City Day School, and Peek Preschool for younger learners.

FEATURED LISTING

8437 Pointe Dr | Cedar Ridge

4 bedrooms | 4 baths | 2,314 SF | $1,249,000

Whether you're looking for a quiet full-time home, a recreational basecamp, or a family-friendly neighborhood, Pinebrook delivers a strong sense of community, natural beauty, and convenience—making it one of Park City’s most desirable places to own a home.

Please reach out to Drew Via and Annett Blankenship with The Park City Investor Team if you are interested in buying or selling property in Pinebrook.

CHRISTIAN CENTER OF PARK CITY STORES: BACK 2 SCHOOL BASICS

As summer winds down in the Wasatch Back, one of the most impactful programs of the season quietly springs into action: Back 2 School Basics, a beloved initiative by the Christian Center of Park City (CCPC). Designed to support local students from low-income families, the program ensures that every child starts the school year with the essentials—and the confidence—they need to succeed.

Held annually in early August, Back 2 School Basics transforms a local retail store into a shopping haven for over 1000 students from Summit and Wasatch counties. Each child receives a $100 gift card to pick out brand-new clothing and shoes—items they choose

for themselves, reflecting their style and personality. The experience empowers students while easing the financial burden on their families during the backto-school season.

But the support doesn’t stop there. Students also receive backpacks and age-appropriate school supplies, donated by generous individuals, local businesses, and community groups. Each student receives the necessary tools for academic success, from pencils to binders.

“This program is about more than new clothes or school supplies,” says Lisa Griffeth, Programs Manager at CCPC. “It’s about dignity, confidence, and giving every student the opportunity to start school on equal footing.”

Thanks to dozens of volunteers and sponsors, Back 2 School Basics embodies the spirit of community. It’s a reminder that when people come together to care for their neighbors, students don’t just show up on the first day of school—they shine.

Find out more about this program and how to get involved at: ccofpc.org/back-2-school-basics/.

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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MEET YOUR CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES Part 2

FROM NEWSROOMS TO NONPROFITS

Molly Miller’s story is one of service, community, and courage.

“I’m running for City Council for my daughter,” said Molly Miller, a longtime Park City resident. Her journey from Michigan to the Wasatch Mountains had many interesting and unique turns; each of which are worthy of their own pages and praise. Her story unfolds vividly and is full of gentle wisdom. She landed in Park City bringing with her the gifts of connection, inclusion, storytelling, and a deep belief in community. Molly is from Grand Blanc, Michigan and is the youngest of five daughters. “I was the surprise baby,” she laughed, recalling how she naturally took on the role of the unifier in her family. Summers were spent in a beachfront motel where her parents worked and where Molly started cleaning rooms at age eight. “My dad had to carry the vacuum because it was bigger than me,” she said. “But it taught me to leave things better than I found them.” With hard-working parents, a teacher salary, and five kids to support, there wasn’t money for extras, so Molly earned her first bike, her college tuition, and eventually, a writing award at the University of Michigan; the prestigious Hopwood Award. “That award said to me: you’re allowed to do this. Your words matter.” It affirmed her lifelong dream: to write.

Her husband, a longtime producer at ABC News and more recently working at great local companies, shares her belief in thoughtful storytelling. They met working in media, drawn to each other not just by talent, but by a quiet kindness they both recognized early on. Now a mother herself, Molly’s days in Park City are filled with the small joys of family life which include walking her daughter to school (something she’ll really miss when they inevitably go to middle school after this, their final year in elementary) and marveling at the beauty around her. “Every day I look at my husband and my daughter and think, ‘I am the luckiest,’ I know it and I don’t take it for granted. We work to thrive here,” she said. “I can really relate to the folks hustling to make it.” This newest endeavor of running for City Council has played right into some of her greatest qualities; connection and leaving things better than she found them. Opting to forego social media, she instead prioritizes connecting with people face-to-face, just as we did for this interview.

Molly's life is woven together by words, love, and the simple act of showing up. Through ambitiously lending her talents to the Park City Education Foundation, starting up her own communications firm that highlighted the women-owned businesses and efforts in the area, and her recent work on the Nonprofit Services Advisory Committee, these important works and ongoing connections solidified her decision to run. “My only agenda is protecting Park City’s magic,” Miller said.

Park City's upcoming primary election on August 12 will narrow the field of candidates down to four who will advance to the general election on November 4. While each candidate will be actively campaigning and sharing their platforms in the months ahead, we wanted to take a moment to introduce them in a more personal light.

Here in Neighbors, our goal is to help you get to know the people behind the campaign signs. The familiar faces you might pass on the trails, in the grocery store, or at a coffee shop. Each of these individuals shares a deep love for Park City and a sincere desire to make it the best it can be. Spoiler alert: they really are just the nicest folks.

MEET DANNY GLASSER

Investing in Park City and Leading by Example

Danny Glasser’s story begins in Lake Forest, Illinois, where he was raised by community-minded parents who brought him along to volunteer at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago. “That experience left a mark,” he reflected. “I was six years old and learning about resilience and care from the very beginning.” Those early lessons would maintain a through-line in Danny’s life, from a multifaceted career in entertainment and tech, to raising four children alongside his wife, Melissa. She was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at 14. Together, they’ve navigated more than most. Their son, Jackson, is autistic and Danny’s volunteer work has long centered on disability advocacy and inclusion.

Park City became home in 2020, just days before the pandemic shut down the world. “We moved here for the family,” Danny shared. “This community’s walkability, medical infrastructure, and sense of support have been everything.” Whether walking Bear, the family dog, near Back 40 or biking with Melissa on her adaptive trike to FiveSeeds for green drinks, Danny finds joy in the ordinary. “Every moment is sacred to her,” he said. “She’s taught me to slow down, to be present.” Their younger kids, Jackson and Lily, have found confidence and independence here. They earn their own money, navigate public transit, and are trusted with certain responsibilities; what Danny calls “the early stages of adulting.” With a family savings model that prioritizes giving back, service is more than an ideal, it’s a household value.

Professionally, Danny served as CEO of the National Ability Center and helped build partnerships and community coalitions to move projects forward. “I’m a doer,” he said simply. “I believe in clearing paths so people can be their best selves.”

Though he’s running for City Council, Danny’s story is less about politics and more about people. “Decisiveness matters,” he said. “But so does compassion. We don’t get anything done by force, we do it by removing barriers and making space for progress.” Danny believes Park City isn’t just a place to live, it’s a community worth investing in.

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ROOTED IN BELONGING

Diego Zegarra’s Path to Community Leadership

The son of a Navy man and a flight attendant, he sweetly brandished his tattoos honoring them both on each of his arms. Diego carries their memory with him, literally. “I have a paper boat and plane tattooed on my arms,” he shared. His upbringing in Peru, during years of political turmoil and transformation, taught him resilience. “I grew up cleaning up after life’s messes,” he said. “Now I try to leave things better than I found them.”

Diego Zegarra’s love for Park City started with a job he almost didn’t take. “I didn’t know anything about working with kids,” he laughed, recalling his first role at a local nonprofit. “But it kind of changed my life. I fell in love with the kids and I fell in love with the families,” he shared.

Originally from Lima, Peru, Diego came to Utah on a J-1 visa and eventually transferred to the University of Utah. “There was a girl involved,” he grins, “and I came here to chase her.” But it was the mountains, and something deeper, that made him stay. What followed was an unexpected path into community service, leading to his current role as vice president of impact at the Park City Community Foundation. “This community has embraced me as its own and I plan to be vocal for locals.”

Now, Diego is running for City Council, hoping to address urgent issues like workforce housing, affordability, and belonging. “Let’s get stuff done,” he said. “This town doesn’t lack compassion or smarts, we just need political courage.” Diego spends time snowboarding, mountain biking, and walking his mini Australian shepherd, Rex. “I love third places," Diego explains. "The library, local breweries, spots that bring people together.”

From hosting community conversations to helping immigrant families feel seen, Diego’s work is grounded in one simple truth: “Being invited to the party is one thing. Being asked to dance? That’s belonging.”

PUBLIC PARKS, PERSONAL VALUES

A Council Candidate with Community at Heart

Ian Hartley’s journey to Park City started in Toronto where he rode the subway alone as a fifth grader and marveled at the quiet, impressive order of a bustling metropolis. “There’s a level of respect and community that comes with public transit,” he says. “It shaped how I act today, which is to say, one cog in a much bigger wheel.”

That sense of connection has stayed with Ian through a winding path; picture push pins on a map from the Bay Area in California, with stops in Iowa, Hawaii, Washington, and eventually to Park City in 2006. Lured by the proximity to family and the promise of one good ski season, Ian stayed for the trails and the people. He met his partner, Emma, while working at White Pine Touring, and together they raised their two kids in Prospector.

“We’re raising our kids to ride to school, to explore the outdoors, to be part of a connected community,” Ian says. “And we’ve rented out our basement as long-term workforce housing since day one. It’s about doing what we can, with what we have.” Now working his dream job with Mountain Trails Foundation, Ian helps build community, literally, through public access and trail development. “I get to cultivate connection,” he says. “What we have here didn’t happen by accident. It was built by people who saw the benefit of public access.”

Whether riding the bus with his son to Bonanza or tandem biking Guardsman Pass with a visually impaired athlete for an NAC fundraiser, Ian shows up with his hands, his heart, and his time. Quoting colleague Max Donnelly, Ian resonates with the idea that, “If you build a public park, no one regrets it.” Highlighting the importance of making responsible, people-first decisions and how “try-storming” is a better use of time than brainstorming and spinning wheels in this work.to the party is one thing. Being asked to dance? That’s belonging.”

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RAD IN THE WASATCH

BALANCED BEAUTY

Chaoyu Irvin, owner of Peak Concierge Medicine, blends science and artistry to bring out each client’s natural glow

No two faces are alike—and neither is anyone’s definition of beauty. But for Chaoyu Irvin, board-certified Physician Associate and Founder of Peak Concierge Medicine in Midway, beauty is more than skin deep. For her, true aesthetic enhancement begins with a foundation of health, harmony, and confidence.

“Beauty on the outside reflects what’s happening on the inside,” says Chaoyu. “I approach aesthetics holistically, starting with a thorough medical assessment. Every face tells a different story, and every client deserves a customized, thoughtful treatment plan—not a one-size-fits-all solution.”

Chaoyu combines her rigorous medical background with a passion for artistry, offering patients natural-looking results through tailored, evidence-based treatments. Her clinic specializes in luxury aesthetic and regenerative procedures—including Botox, dermal fillers, Sculptra®, platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), microneedling, CO₂ skin resurfacing, intravenous (IV) therapy, laser treatments and medical-grade skincare. Clients get more than a quick fix: they’re guided through a year-long wellness and beauty journey that’s as personal as it is transformative.

“We create a comprehensive plan designed around your anatomy, lifestyle and long-term goals,” Chaoyu explains. “The goal is not just to look refreshed—but to feel your best.” She launched Peak Concierge Medicine in 2020, building on years of experience in a scientific background, acute care and family medicine. “I’ve always loved working with my hands. If I weren’t in medicine, I’d be a fashion designer,” she says with a smile. “This is the perfect blend of creativity, science, and service.”

Originally from Taiwan, Chaoyu came to the United States in 2005 to further her education. She began as a researcher at the University of Colorado and earned a master’s degree in chemistry with a biology emphasis. Her career in medical research spanned 8 years, focusing on cancer, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) at National Jewish Health.

“My specialty was immunology—understanding how the body reacts to disease at a cellular level. That foundation makes me a better clinician today,” she says. “It helps me explain the ‘why’ behind what’s happening in my patients’ bodies.”

During her research career, she published several papers and found herself drawn to patient interaction. “I fell in love with talking to patients about the science and seeing the human side of the work. I wanted more of that.”

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After moving to Utah, Chaoyu shifted toward clinical medicine. She became a certified nursing assistant (CNA), worked as an emergency room (ER) technician and earned her physician assistant (PA) degree from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. For the last few years, she’s practiced medicine at Heber Valley Hospital’s Instacare—all while running Peak Concierge Medicine full-time. “I have two full-time jobs,” she says. “It’s intense, but incredibly fulfilling.”

At her clinic, Chaoyu integrates regenerative medicine with aesthetics to achieve long-lasting, natural results. Treatments like PRF and stem cell therapy support tissue repair, reduce inflammation and promote collagen growth. “These therapies use the body’s healing power,” she says. “It’s all about helping people age gracefully and feel their best.”

Chaoyu and her husband, Matt, live in Midway with their 3 young boys. The couple met on a blind date at a concert in Colorado, and when their first son was born, they relocated to Utah to be closer to family. “We instantly fell in love with Wasatch County. This is our forever home,” she says.

But the Irvins aren’t just living in Midway—they’re actively investing in the community they love.

Matt is the founder of Adventourage, a premier outdoor adventure company based at the Homestead Resort. The business offers unforgettable experiences like backcountry snowmobile tours, off-road UTV rides and guided wilderness adventures. Adventourage plays a major role in trail-building, habitat restoration, and snow grooming initiatives in both the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and Wasatch Mountain State Park.

“As a family, we believe in giving back,” Chaoyu says. “We’ve contributed thousands of hours and hundreds of thousands of dollars to create and maintain recreational infrastructure that benefits everyone—locals and visitors alike.” Their downtime reflects this love for the outdoors. “Our backyard is the mountains,” she says. “We hike, bike, ride motorcycles and we have a yurt at the top of the ridge that we call our sanctuary.”

Fun fact: Chaoyu and Matt launched their businesses on the same day. “I don’t recommend doing that,” she laughs. “But we’ve built something really special together, and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished as a team.”

Despite their packed schedules, the Irvins find ways to stay involved in local causes. Chaoyu volunteers for the Wasatch Community Foundation, supporting events like the Mile-by-Mile Marathon and the Kids’ Health & Safety Fair.

Her approach to life mirrors her approach to aesthetics: balanced, thoughtful, and centered on well-being. “I believe in grace, in balanced beauty, and in living with intention,” she says. “If we can use our skills to help others live healthier, more confident lives, then that’s a life well-lived.”

We would love to hear from you! If you have any ideas for nominating a member in our community for this column, please reach out to Jacquie Symes at jacquie@bestversionmedia.com Thank you!

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KIRSTEN KOHLWEY

Hazel Coppola MAKERS SERIES: CERAMICIST

Hazel Rodriguez Coppola graduated from the University of Utah with a BFA in Ceramics. Her art has been exhibited in galleries at the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art, the University of Utah, Utah State University, the Mexican Consulate, the 2025 National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts Conference, and others. Hazel is heavily influenced by the colors and art of her ancestry. You will notice the bright pinks, yellows, teals and reds of Guatemala in conjunction with animals. While Hazel loves birds and playful, whimsical depictions of animals, most of her work is about women. Her family has a strong legacy of intelligent and creative women.

She teaches advanced and basic classes, mostly in wheel throwing at Kimball Art Center and was honored to be speaking at an event at the Kimball Art Center recently on How to Look at Contemporary Art.

Locally, Hazel manages the art scholarship presented by the Park City Artists Association to a graduating senior at Park City High School. Even though Hazel didn’t start working with clay until she took a ceramics class in high school at the age of 16, she has already introduced her two young daughters, 4 and 10 years old, to ceramics.

In college Hazel Coppola discovered that she loves working with red earthenware and bright colors for the slip and underglazes. Hazel paints, carves and sculpts in her pieces. For her it is a way to connect, remember, and honor her parents. Her art is based on her heritage and stories told at family gatherings. She does not create functional work. Her art represents clay expressions of her identity, growing up in an immigrant home. Storytelling and generational knowledge learned from passed down crafts are encapsulated in clay artworks highlighting realistic and geometric styles in natural clay colors.

She learned her favorite techniques, sgraffito and sculpting, in college. Sgraffito is a technique that allows you to create contrasting images by layering colored underglazes and then scratching some of it off. She feels a strong connection to food and Earth and likes blending styles. She likes sculpting realistic faces in natural clay colors and uses bright colored slips and underglazes for the embedded stories, which are more abstract and more impressionistic paintings on her clay artwork. Hazel also learned printmaking and loves using newspaper transfers in some of her art pieces.

Instagram: @hazelcoppolaclay

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PUBLIC ART BRIGHTENS PARK CITY BUS SHELTERS IN NEW TRANSIT PROJECT

PARK CITY, Utah — Eight bus stop shelters across the city unveiled a new look earlier this week. Five artists were chosen to complete the designs: Elizabeth Walsh, who designed four of the stops; Libby Peterkort; Heather Olson; Michael Murdock; and Anjola Ayodele. The artists used color palettes inspired by Park City’s bus color routing, and incorporated the town’s rich cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and community spirit into their final designs.

“This project reflects exactly what public art should do — bring beauty to everyday spaces while celebrating the incredible talent within Park City’s arts community,” said Councilmember Tana Toly, liaison to the Public Art Advisory Board. “These new bus stops don’t just brighten the wait — they reflect our small town character and help public space

feel more connected to the creativity and sense of place that make Park City so special.”

These shelters are part of a multi-phase plan to improve 72 bus stops across the city. In this first phase, 19 stops along transit routes in Park City are planned for renovation — 10 upgraded to shelters with benches, eight with stand-alone benches, and one with a cement pad only. Funding for the project is included in the Public Art Advisory Board’s Strategic Plan for 2024. The budget for each bus stop artwork is $5,000 with the total budget for all 19 bus stops not to exceed $95,000, according to Park City Municipal. The total for this round of selections is $40,000 and is funded by the Public Art CIP allocation and within the existing Public Art budget.

“This project reflects exactly what public art should do — bring beauty to everyday spaces while celebrating the incredible talent within Park City’s arts community,” said Councilmember Tana Toly

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CORNER BY KIRSTEN KOHLWEY

BY DANA KLEIN

MUSIC SERIES:Wyatt Pike

Wyatt Pike attended Berklee College of Music remotely during Covid when he was approached by American Idol to participate in their competition. He had just released his first single.

He was no stranger to performing. From the age of 12 to 18, Wyatt played acoustic guitar and sang every Saturday during the ski season at the Black Diamond Lodge, Stein Ericksen or the Waldorf Astoria. Wyatt decided that he should jump at the opportunity. By February 2021 he was in the top 24, then the top 16. Technically, he was in the top 10 when he dropped out of the competition, but it hadn’t been announced to the public yet. He considers himself a singer-songwriter and hates the idea of being categorized in a specific genre. He felt like he was being pressured to either embrace pop or country music or he didn’t have a place on the show. “It's storytelling, and it's very real and authentic. Everything I said on that EP was true, and everything I'm saying on the upcoming music is true,” says Wyatt.

After that experience he moved to Los Angeles for a year, and released a new EP. In 2022 he did a West Coast headliner tour to 11 different cities, and East Coast tours to Philadelphia, Boston and New York City among others. 2023 found him on tour opening for Theo Kandel before he hit burnout.

Park City is the “soul cleaner of my life,” says Wyatt Pike. He graduated from Park City High School. Even when he isn’t living in Utah, he returns here frequently. Take a look at his music videos and you will recognize a lot of Utah landscapes. Since 2023, he has done a lot of personal growth and gained an understanding of what he wants from art.

During this time, he got a job delivering sail boats and started writing songs again. He considers his music written in the last eight months his favorite and best yet. He took two years off from releasing music. In June 2025 he released a single called “Leatherman” and has an EP coming out in August. His music can be found on all music streaming platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music and on Instagram @wyattpike.

He aims to do some headline touring, write more music, and make a living at it––perhaps own a sailboat. His upcoming EP does include a sailing song.

Website: www.wyattpike.com

Email: info@wyattpike.com Instagram: @wyattpike

PHOTOS

A YOUNG ARTIST'S JOURNEY Asher Orenstein

When Asher Orenstein walked into my 6th grade art class five years ago, he carried the natural apprehension of any new student. But that hesitation vanished the moment his pencil touched the paper. It was clear that Asher wasn’t just another student in a Foundations Art Class—he was an exceptionally gifted artist. Assignment after assignment, his work stood out, not only for its technical precision but for the confidence and maturity beyond his years. His pen and ink drawings had the wit and complexity of a seasoned political cartoonist and were executed with ease.

The creative drive runs deep in Asher’s family. “A lot of my family is creatively inclined: my aunt is an opera singer, my grandmother is a composer, and my grandfather is an artist,” he explains. His grandfather, Philip Orenstein, in particular, has had a lasting influence—not just as a role model in artistic achievement, but as a guide into the world of art history. “My Papa Phil has multiple works in The Met. He worked hard to reach that point. Some of my favorite art resides there, and with my family connection, The Met holds a special place for me. I would love to see my own work there someday.”

Despite this strong foundation, Asher is candid about the challenges of being a young artist. “My biggest challenge is my lack of knowledge and experience. I have trouble creating work that feels meaningful—because what do I know? I’m 17. I create what I want when I want, and people can decide if it’s meaningful. If they don’t, it doesn’t matter—I make art for myself first.”

Over the years, several mentors have played a role in shaping Asher’s artistic voice and vision. One of the most influential was Debra Freeman-Highberger, his early painting teacher at Acorn Gallery in Marblehead, Massachusetts. “Asher absorbed everything,” she recalls. “What I taught him were the same principles you'd learn in a college-level painting and drawing class—but he was only eleven!” Asher remembers her just as vividly: “She was an extremely skilled painter and a warm, inviting person. She made art fun—not just another class. I understand depth, color, and shading because of her.”

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When he moved to Park City, it was Deb Dekoff who recognized his potential and encouraged him to share his work publicly. “She had me enter a local contest, and my art ended up displayed on Main Street. That was a big moment for me as a kid new to town.”

Today, Asher continues to grow under the guidance of Rob Mellor, his current teacher at Rowland Hall. Rob’s advice—“Make what

you want to make”—has become a core part of Asher’s creative philosophy. “A lot of people get caught up in improving skills or making meaningful work. But Rob taught me to focus on what I want to create—not what others expect.”

Looking ahead, the future holds endless possibilities. While unsure whether art will be a full-time pursuit in college, it will remain central. He hopes to refine oil painting

techniques, explore new mediums like glass blowing, and one day have his work displayed in The Met—an homage to his grandfather and a personal dream.

For now, you can find Asher’s art on Instagram at @narwhal.inc, where his imaginative drawings speak for themselves. Whether or not deeper meaning is intended, his goal is simple: “I just hope people want more after seeing what I make.”

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Peach Handly

Name: Peach Handly • Age: 4

Discipline: Summer Camp

We are thrilled to recognize Peach Handly as our Athlete Leader of the Month at Black Diamond Gymnastics & Sports Center!

Peach lights up our summer camp each day with her contagious smile and positive energy. From the moment she walks in the door, she brings an excitement that lifts the whole room. Whether she’s diving into games, cheering on a friend, or leading by example during activities, Peach shows us what it means to be a true team player.

One of the first places you’ll find Peach shining is in arts and crafts, where she’s always ready to help her fellow campers and offer kind, creative suggestions. She listens with respect, follows directions with care, and makes every project more fun with her upbeat attitude. In the gym, Peach continues to impress with her growing gymnastics skills! She works hard, tries new things with confidence, and celebrates not just her own progress but the progress of her peers. Her determination and joy make her a standout in every class.

But what truly sets Peach apart is her kindness. She goes out of her way to include others, offer encouragement, and treat everyone with respect—whether she’s with longtime friends or new faces.

Peach, your enthusiasm, helpful spirit, and consistent leadership inspire us all. Thank you for being such a bright part of the Black Diamond family. We are so proud of you and can’t wait to see how you continue to grow both in and out of the gym.

Congratulations, Peach—you’re an amazing Athlete Leader!

ATHLETE OF THE MONTH:

SorchaCanning

Meet Sorcha Canning, a rising Freshman at Park City High School excelling in swimming. Her love for swimming began in New York, before she moved to Park City in 2nd grade. At the young age of four, her parents enrolled both her and her sister, Aoife, in swim classes at Storm Valley Aquatics. But for now, it wasn’t competitive, merely a way for the girls to build skills to be safe in the water and grow relationships with similar aged peers. However, Sorcha was inspired, and highly competitive with her older sister, which drove her to begin to compete, and by the time she moved to Park City her skills were well built. Joining the Park City Swim Team at the age of seven, Sorcha continued to swim competitively and began to set and achieve goals.

One of these daunting goals she set at the age of 11, and finally achieved it this last spring. Her goal: qualify for sectionals. For those of you, like me, that are unversed in swim language, this may seem simple. But after my interview with Sorcha, and some research on my own, I am wholeheartedly impressed that she achieved this extensive goal. Sectionals is the third largest competition in the United States in which someone must qualify to race by having a certain time in an event. The US is split into 4 sections––Western, Central, Eastern, and Southern. A swimmer from Utah, like Sorcha, would compete in the Western Sectionals along with athletes from Oregon, Washington, California, Montana, Idaho, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, Colorado, Wyoming, Hawaii, and Alaska. On top of the large pool where athletes could be

coming from, sectionals is particularly hard since it is a “Senior Meet,” meaning athletes could be any age so long as they have the qualifying time. Sectionals is also highly competitive as it opens the door to qualifying for Futures and Junior Nationals.

When Sorcha set this intimidating goal at 11 years old she knew it would probably take a few years to reach. Even though the goal felt like it was in the distant future, Sorcha began to implement daily practices that she hoped would eventually result in success. One major change she adopted last summer was joining the Senior Team at Park City as the youngest swimmer there. Joining this team made her practices increase, from 6 swims and 3 drylands a week, to 8 swims, 3 drylands, and 2 extra weight lifting practices at Athletic Republic. On top of increasing her training load, Sorcha also tried to make sure that her timed practices were productive. She explained that, “I try to give 100% effort at practices…through the sprints particularly.” Outside of training time, Sorcha also works to dial in her nutrition, stretching, and sleep. Making sure that every night she sets aside time to do her PT for her shoulder, roll out, and get full nights rest so she could get the most out of every training session.

Her extra training didn’t have immediate results, which is normal, but frustrating particularly since she was trying to qualify her times for sectionals by a certain date. Every year there are two sectionals––long course and short course. Sorcha is stronger in long course, and therefore was

trying to get the qualifying times for the Short Course Sectionals in the Spring of 2024. Last summer, she competed in various events trying to get the qualifying time of 1 minute 6 seconds and 8 milliseconds (1:06.8) for the 100 Fly in long course. At age-group states last spring, Sorcha attempted to get the qualifying time for the 100 Fly but was annoyingly .2 seconds off. Her last chance to get the needed time before the Spring Sectionals of 2024, was South West Age Group Regionals in California. Sadly, she was still .2 seconds off, and didn’t qualify in time for 2024 Sectionals. But instead of letting the loss get to her head, she continued to show up to training and set her eyes on qualifying for 2025. Later that summer in early July, Sorcha competed at Senior State. In a team relay, Sorcha raced the 100 Fly and swam a 1:04.8. Since it was a relay with a different entrance dive, her time didn’t

BY IZZY CRANDALL, YOUTH WRITER

PHOTOS BY OWEN CRANDALL, YOUTH PHOTOGRAPHER

qualify her for Sectionals. However, it gave her the hope that she could swim the needed 1:06.8 the next day in the 100 Fly. The following day, nervous, Sorcha raced the preliminary race and got a 1:05, qualifying her for Sectionals. Following this successful preliminary race, she talked with her coach, Gadi, and he set the intimidating pace for Finals; telling her to go out at a 29 (meaning the first 50 meters would be completed in 29 seconds), and finish in 1:04.8. Sorcha, trusting Coach Gadi, went out hard, hearing the screams of immense support and excitement from her teammates, and finished the race to look up the timing board saying ‘1:04.7’. This time qualified her with over 2 seconds to spare for the 100 Fly. Though this event was her main focus, Sorcha also qualified for Sectionals in two other events at Senior States, the 100 Back and 1500 Free.

In the eight months she had to prepare for Sectionals, Sorcha didn’t change much about her daily routine. She continued to show up to training, rested, fueled, stretched––ready to give it her all. While preparing for the big Sectional event, she was able to qualify for additional 4 events––1000 Free, 200 Fly, 200 Back, and 500 Free, meaning that in total she

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qualified for 7 events. In March of 2025, Park City sent the largest team ever to go to Sectionals to Boise, Idaho for the 4-Day Meet consisting of Sorcha, Anna Klug, and 6 other male swimmers. Here at Sectionals, racing against people of all ages across the Western United States, Sorcha, only 13 years old, made it to Finals in all 7 events. In the 1000 Free, she medaled with 8th place finish. And for her favorite event, the 100 Fly, she got a personal record of 57.02 in a short course pool during the preliminary race, placing her in the B Final for a top 16 placement.

Just as soon as Sorcha achieved this massive goal to qualify for Sectionals, and race it, she had already begun to set new goals. First of which is to swim a 1:02.7 in the 100 Fly, dropping 2 seconds off her current time, which would qualify her for Junior Nationals. In addition Sorcha has her eyes on Junior Nationals in December in Texas. For the long term, the dream is to qualify for the Olympics, all whilst keeping the sport enjoyable. From setting lofty goals, working towards them, not succeeding at first, and enjoying the reaping of her hard work, I think we can all learn a little bit about resilience from this young athlete, Sorcha Canning.

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LOWER THE PRESSURE

Once upon a time, at the top of Telluride’s public gondola, stood a man so fast that he would go on to hold more World Cup downhill racing titles than any other mountain biker. He possessed some uncanny magic, almost as if he controlled gravity itself and selfishly altered the laws of physics. Greg Minaar needs no introduction among any discipline of cycling or mountain biking. And if there was one person whose skill outpaced the development of new gear, it was him. And tires were always trying to keep up.

It was 2002, and the tire of choice among the world’s fastest downhill racers was the Michelin Wild Gripper 2. It came in 26” x 2.8” and that was about it. It belonged on a motorcycle. Racers could run lower pressures and with an extra thick butyl downhill tube, it was otherworldly heavy.

The tread pattern was not revolutionary. In fact, it could have been a dirt bike tire, but the talent running the tire was faster than anything I’d ever seen. Telluride’s UCI World Cup course careened down the mountain prompting unbelievable speeds and was littered with corners crossing double fall-lines, where gravity bullied lesser racers off the track.

Greg Minaar, whose riding buddies and rivals were Cedric Gracia, Steve Peat, and John Tomac, oh, and Eric Carter… altered all understanding of what a tire could grip. It was an era that not only preceded accessories like CushCore, tubeless, and bead-locking rims, it was mountain biking’s wild west. True long-travel bikes had only been available for a few years and RedBull Rampage had its initial season just nine months before.

I watched in awe as his World Cup buddies taunted him. “You’ll never make that gap. Even if you do, you’ll never hold that corner!” It was a fifty-foot gap between two unsuspecting mounds, the “landing” of which entered a double fallline corner into an aspen forest.

Minaar came into the take-off with a sonic boom, jersey sleeves flapping like sails in a squall.

How can a cross-country rider keep good momentum but also grip better? How can an enduro racer maximize the contact patch of their 27.5” x 2.5” Maxxis Minion?

First thing’s first. Get rid of the tubes. Run low pressure.

LEARN MORE ABOUT DEXA SCANS WITH DR. SPENSER REED

Imagine having a tool that offers a complete snapshot of your body’s health—from bone strength to muscle mass and even hidden visceral fat. The revolutionary DEXA Scan, now available at Dr. Spenser Reed’s office, provides this detailed insight in a quick, painless procedure. Whether you’re an athlete aiming to enhance performance, a health enthusiast seeking precision, or someone looking to take charge of your health, a DEXA Scan can guide your wellness journey.

Known as the gold standard for evaluating body composition and bone health, DEXA Scans provide precise measurements of body fat, muscle mass, and bone density. This makes it a powerful tool for detecting early signs of serious health risks like heart disease, diabetes, stroke,

and osteoporosis. For older adults, it’s especially valuable for early osteoporosis detection, while those concerned about visceral fat can benefit from its accurate readings, leading to better health decisions.

Ideal for athletes, health-conscious individuals, and those looking to take proactive steps, the DEXA Scan provides critical health insights tailored to your needs.

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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MOUNTAIN BIKING AND TIRE CHARACTERISTICS

Tubes were prone to many deflating concerns: snake bites, nails, thorns, bursting through sidewall tears; they were also heavy, contributing to the rotating mass fighting quadriceps and calves up the mountain. Running low pressure with tubes in tires is a recipe for failure.

Cross-country (XC) racers like low tread profiles with denser lug patterns, which is a compromising win for pedaling efficiency, grip and downhill speed. Purpose built, they’ll have lighter sidewalls with lower TPI, or thread per inch, reducing weight and durability.

The tires can still run lower pressures, but the XC rider isn’t smashing through rock gardens or landing road gaps, so demands on the gear are generally lower.

An enduro rider is looking for the descent, pedaling up to go down, explore, and carry a bit more. I’ll group enduro with trail as well because the gear preference is similar. They tend to run similar tires to the downhill guys, for similar reasons; sidewall and treads are offered in a lighter-duty version for this category, specifically to be less painful on the climb.

Tread designs on these tires incorporate larger, blockier lugs with more spacing. Typically, the tire durometer (rubber softness) is lower for better grip. These build characteristics target grip through loose, rocky, and rutted-out trails, with reinforced sidewalls to deal with impacts at speed.

There is no one-size-fits-all checklist to achieving maximum tire performance, since we all ride differently. Many of us have yet to tame gravity or the laws of physics but we’d like the best performance from our gear.

After determining the lowest tire pressure we can ride without destroying our rims and wheels, there’s still the chance that we can do more. We talk with the shop guys and get a tire insert, CushCore, Tannus, or similar product. Suddenly, we’re riding faster on softer tires, with less damage.

The world has changed. Each cup of coffee has more flavor. Each breath of air is more energizing.

THE GAP

Minaar slipped past us silently, all senses mute but vision, then he flew over “the gap,” stuck the landing, and disappeared into the woods faster than any other top-level racer we had seen that day. Grip played a role. He also knew just how far he could push it. Most of us are not like him. But if we can master our tires, the bike will deliver better results for any level of riding experience.

Instagram: @insightbike

Have questions or inquiries about

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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MEET YOUR MAYORAL CANDIDATES

A SKIER, A READER, A NEIGHBOR

Jack Rubin’s Local Life

Jack Rubin never planned on Park City being his final chapter, a story we have all heard before when it comes to planting roots in our beautiful city. Raised on the east coast and shaped by a career in high-profile finance, Jack first arrived in the late ’70s on a ski trip. “I was gobsmacked,” he said, recalling turning around on the chairlift just to take in the snow-covered peaks. “It looked like a Coors ad.”

After building a career in institutional investment management and raising their children in Connecticut, Jack and his wife decided to try something new in 2014. “We leased a place for six months,” he said, “but by day seven, we looked at each other and said, ‘Why would we go anywhere else?’” His wife, now a Deer Valley ski instructor, fell into mountain life with ease. Their children, raised as skiers, still return for runs down the same hills they once mastered as Reindeer Club kids. “It was the best tuition we ever paid,” Jack laughed. Jack spends his days walking the town, often logging up to eight miles with a podcast or audiobook in his ears, and absorbing what Park City has to say. “There’s no substitute for being out in it,” he said. “You smell it, hear it, see it. That’s how I stay connected.”

When COVID hit, Jack co-founded the Most Vulnerable Fund and through some quick-thinking-networking with his friends and neighbors, they raised money for community members in need. “It was an effort to keep the lights on and roofs over people’s heads,” he says. “That experience showed me what this community is made of.” The fund dissolved just as the need did.

His wife and he operate with independence, meeting back at dinner to trade stories from days spent skiing, hiking, or biking. “It’s not about doing everything together,” he says. “It’s about building a life in the same direction.” Jack sees himself less as a politician and more as a neighbor with a hand on the tiller. “This isn’t about partisanship, it’s about community,” he says. “Park City’s given me so much. I just want to help steer it toward a future we all believe in.”

SKIS, TIRE SWINGS, AND A LIFE WELL-BUILT

Meet Ryan Dickey as He Answers the Call to Action

Originally from central Florida, Ryan Dickey came to Park City 15 years ago for a single winter. Like many who fall for the area’s mountain charm, he never left. He and his wife Allyson stayed for the summer and then another winter, and, as Ryan joked, “That’s the trap.” They were hooked. For the Dickeys, Park City isn’t just where they live, it’s where their family became real. On every hike, every school day drop-off, every snowy chairlift ride, they’re creating a life full of purpose, in a town they’re proud to call home.

A management consultant with a Duke MBA and a resume spanning New York and Chicago, Ryan initially continued his consulting work while exploring local life. His desire to plant deeper roots led him to start a business in Park City. Model HOA, a property management company, now run day-to-day by Allyson, now serves thousands of local units. Ryan also became a top-producing real estate broker with Windermere Real Estate.

With two young daughters attending Parley’s Park Elementary, Ryan's personal and professional life are deeply woven into the Park City community. He served five years on the planning commission before being appointed to CIty Council in 2022, and then later being elected to his first full term. He focuses on housing affordability, traffic and transportation, and preserving Park City’s small-town feel. “We want to remain a vibrant place for families and local businesses,” he said. He credits his father, a longtime judge, public servant, and Rotary Club president, for instilling the values of community service in him.

“We talked a lot about what it would mean to run,” he said of the mayoral race. “It’s time away from our girls, but we want to show them that life isn’t just about work, skiing, or lifestyle. It’s about service and showing up for your community.” For Ryan, this race isn’t just about platforms, it’s more about leadership. “We’ve got great projects that need momentum. I’d like to leave the cycles of analysis behind. It’s time for action.” With the 2034 Olympics on the horizon, he believes Park City needs experienced leadership that can keep projects moving and decisions focused. Ryan and his family are often out exploring the trails or slopes. A favorite family outing? The tire swing in Round Valley, dangled as a reward for a proper hike. This past winter, the Dickeys had their first magical season skiing all together, no more bunny hills. “It was one of those moments,” Ryan said, “where you realize…this is exactly the life we dreamed of.”

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Grow joy this summer: How gardening supports your mental health.

Learn how simple, mindful time in the garden reduces stress, eases anxiety, and brings joy—no green thumb required. Life moves fast – and not always in ways that feel good for your mind or body. Stress builds. Screens pull you in. Quiet moments are harder to come by. And after several challenging years, many of us are carrying more mental load than ever before. Rates of anxiety, depression, and burnout are high across all age groups. If you’ve been feeling it too, you’re not alone.

But sometimes the simplest acts can help you find your way back to calm.

One of those acts? Tending a garden. You don’t need a perfect yard or a green thumb. You don’t even need to start in the spring. You can begin right now, in early summer, and still enjoy the mental health benefits gardening has to offer.

See how gardening supports your mental health.

More and more research points to a simple truth: spending time in nature is good for your well-being. And gardening goes a step further. It offers a hands-on, mindful way to slow down and reconnect with yourself and the world around you. Here’s how:

It brings you into the present: When you garden, you’re engaging your senses. The feel of soil in your hands. The scent of herbs or flowers. The sight of new growth. The rhythm of watering.

All of this draws your attention to what’s happening right now, helping quiet the constant swirl of thoughts and worries. It eases stress and anxiety: Gardening can help lower levels of stress and boost your mood. The American Psychological Association reports that spending time in nature, including in gardens and green spaces, can reduce stress, improve mood, and support overall emotional well-being. It gives you a sense of purpose: Watching something grow under your care is deeply rewarding. Whether it’s a sprig of basil, a few cheerful flowers, or a pot of tomatoes, nurturing plants gives you a sense of accomplishment and meaning, both of which are linked to better mental health.

This is especially valuable during times when life can feel uncertain or overwhelming. A small, positive focus can go a long way in supporting resilience. It encourages movement and time outdoors: Gardening is gentle physical activity that gets you moving, stretching, and sometimes breaking a sweat – all of which can improve mental well-being. The CDC highlights that regular physical activity, including activities like gardening, can help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression and improve mood.

Gardening also encourages time outdoors, where natural light and fresh air offer additional benefits. According to the National Institutes of Health, exposure to daylight and fresh air while gardening can boost mood, support better sleep, and enhance overall well-being. Start now – it’s not too late

If you’re thinking, “But it’s already summer!” — don’t worry. Plenty of plants thrive when started in early or mid-summer. And starting a garden doesn’t have to mean planting an entire vegetable patch.

In fact, beginning a garden in summer comes with its own advantages: longer days, more consistent warmth, and more opportunities to spend time outdoors.

Here’s what you can still grow:

Herbs: basil, mint, chives, cilantro – quick to sprout and satisfying to snip for meals

Flowers: zinnias, marigolds, cosmos –all fast growers that bring beauty and pollinators

Vegetables: bush beans, cucumbers, radishes, summer squash – great options for a late start

You can plant in containers, raised beds, window boxes – whatever fits your space and lifestyle. Even one pot on a balcony or windowsill can become your mini garden.

And remember, gardening is about process, not perfection. You’re not trying to win a county fair. You’re creating a space (big or small) where you can pause, breathe, and find a little joy.

Make gardening part of your self-care routine

If you approach gardening with mindfulness, it can become a meaningful

ritual that supports your mental health over time.

Be present with each task: When you water your plants, really notice how it feels. When you prune a leaf or pull a weed, focus on the movement. Let the sights, sounds, and smells anchor you in the moment.

Use gardening as a screen-free break; Let your time in the garden (even five minutes) be free of phone notifications and to-do lists. Treat it as a space to simply be, with no other expectations.

Notice growth in your plants (and yourself): One of the beautiful things about gardening is how it mirrors life: progress happens slowly, then all at once. Watching your plants grow can be a gentle reminder that your own well-being is a work in progress, too. Celebrate the small wins: a new sprout, a bloom, a thriving pot. They’re worth noticing.

Try garden journaling: Consider keeping a small journal where you jot down what you notice each week in your garden and how you feel during the process. This simple reflection can deepen the mindfulness and joy you experience.

Create a personal garden ritual: Perhaps it’s enjoying your morning coffee while checking on your plants. Or spending five quiet minutes outside after work. Regular, intentional moments in your garden can become a restorative part of your daily rhythm.

Grow joy, one plant at a time: You don’t have to overhaul your life to feel better. Sometimes, the smallest shifts make the biggest difference.

Gardening is one of those shifts. It helps you step out of stress and into the present. It offers movement, purpose, and a deeper connection to the natural world. And it’s something you can start today – no matter the season, no matter your experience.

So, if you’ve been looking for a way to support your mental health, consider this an invitation: plant something. Nurture it. Let it nurture you in return.

BY TIFFANY WICKES, ON BEHALF OF WOW CLINIC

Discover the Missing Piece in Your Wellness Journey at Wasatch Optimal Wellness

Since opening in August 2024, the team at Wasatch Optimal Wellness (WOW Clinic) has proudly served the Heber Valley and surrounding communities with precision, insight, and compassion. From weight loss programs and IV therapy to DEXA scans, saunas, and more, WOW has built a reputation for cutting-edge services and personalized care.

But there was still one critical element missing in the pursuit of true, lasting health: Metabolic health — the foundation of optimal wellness.

WHAT IS METABOLIC HEALTH?

Metabolic health is your body’s ability to create, store, and efficiently use energy from the food you eat. In simple terms, it’s how effectively your body converts fuel into function, powering everything from your brain and muscles to your immune system and healing processes.

According to a 2025 study published in Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders by researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, only 12% of Americans are metabolically healthy. That means nearly 9 out of 10 people are living with some form of metabolic dysfunction, often without realizing it.

INTRODUCING WOW’S GLUCOSE MONITORING

PROGRAM

To address this growing health challenge, WOW is launching a comprehensive Glucose Monitoring Program designed to help patients gain real-time insight into their metabolic health and make meaningful, sustainable changes.

This multi-phase program includes:

• Foundational bloodwork to assess your current metabolic markers

• Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) using a discreet, wearable sensor

• One-on-one nutrition and lifestyle counseling with expert clinicians

• Ongoing support and lifestyle strategies tailored to your unique glucose trends

“Most of our patients want to understand how their biomarkers change with different foods and activities — this program gives them that clarity,” says Ben Fogg, MD, Medical Director at WOW.

WHO IS THIS PROGRAM FOR?

It’s a common misconception that metabolic dysfunction only affects those with poor diets or sedentary habits. But even patients who eat clean, exercise regularly, and sleep 8 hours a night can still struggle with hidden imbalances.

“I noticed a huge spike in my blood sugar after just one night of poor sleep,” says Meredith Salmon, WOW’s Co-Founder and Nurse Lead. “I never would’ve known how much sleep affected me without using a CGM.”

CGMs give patients real-time feedback on how their body responds to food, stress, sleep, and activity — offering a powerful tool for optimizing long-term health.

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WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE GLUCOSE MONITORING PROGRAM

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Program Introduction

Start with a comprehensive health visit with Dr. Fogg or Bryant Salmon, PA-C, which includes:

• A DEXA scan to assess body composition (bone density, muscle mass, percent body fat, and visceral fat)

• Baseline bloodwork assessing metabolic markers and vital signs

• Education and training on application of the device and interpretation of CGM data

Step 2: Data Collection & Analysis

Wear your CGM for 14 days while tracking meals, sleep, and lifestyle habits. At your follow-up visit, your clinician will review the data with you and provide a personalized plan to optimize your glucose response.

Step 3: Progress Monitoring & Support

After implementing some changes to your activity, nutrition, and daily habits, we’ll check back in and decide when to repeat the CGM. From there, we’ll see how your body is responding. This is where we really dial things in, fine-tuning and adjusting your plan based on what works best for you.

YOUR NEXT STEP TOWARD OPTIMAL WELLNESS

At WOW, they combine science, technology, and expert care to help you take control of your metabolic health. Their goal isn’t just shortterm change; it’s lifelong transformation.

If you’re ready to gain personalized insight into your body and unlock the next level of wellness, they’re here to guide you.

Take the next step. Discover your metabolic potential with WOW.

Meet the Team at Autumn Bear Wellness Collective

Autumn Bear

M.S., L.AC, DIPL AC

My formal training in classical Chinese medicine was transmitted directly to me by the esteemed Taoist master and 88th generation practitioner Jeffrey C. Yuen of the jade purity and dragon gate lineage. I apprenticed with the commonwealth herbal program in Boston mastering dietary therapy and western herbal medicine. I worked toward a Masters of Public Health at the University of Arizona (with a specialty in international medicine and maternal and child health), where my continued focus was in the areas of epidemiology, nutrition, environmental health, physiology, and psychology. I am licensed to practice acupuncture by the states of Utah and New York and I am a board certified diplomate of acupuncture as conferred by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). My Masters of Science in acupuncture is from the Swedish Institute of Health Sciences in New York City.

I have had the great privilege of teaching as a professor at the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine (New York), as well as in programs focused on integrating acupuncture into mainstream medicine at both the University Paris xi Faculte de Medecine Paris-sud (Paris, France), and at the Wu Ming Dao Healing Center (Moscow, Russia).

Nichole Dreyer M.S., L.AC, DIPL AC

I earned my Master of Science in Oriental Medicine from Southwest Acupuncture College in Boulder, CO, in 2010, and have since cultivated a diverse and enriching career. Licensed to practice in both Colorado and Utah, I began my journey by founding my own practice in Aspen, CO, before relocating to Sweden, where I practiced for five years. In 2015, I had the privilege of spending seven months in Bali, where I served as the master in-house acupuncturist at the Four Seasons Hotel. Seeking to further expand my expertise, I spent the last seven years working in two integrative, functional, and regenerative medicine clinics in Park City, Utah. Outside of my practice, I am drawn to the natural world, finding joy in camping, paddleboarding, skiing, and connecting with animals. My path has been one of continuous learning and deepening my connection to both the healing arts and the beauty of nature.

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Dr. Kelly Woodward DO, MPH

Dr. Kelly Woodward is a board-certified Preventive and Family Medicine physician. He has over 35 years of experience in medical practice, graduate medical education, and healthcare leadership. Prior to joining Autumn Bear Collective, Dr. Woodward served for 8 years as the Medical Director of the Intermountain Park City Hospital Lifestyle Medicine and Wellness Center. He led the development of comprehensive wellness and disease management services provided through team-based physical activity, nutrition, clinical diagnosis and treatment, and integrative medicine services.

Before joining Intermountain Health, Dr. Woodward was Medical Director of a New York-based concierge medical group he established, which focused on wellness and preventive medicine. Dr. Woodward spent several years as a Senior Consultant to federal and private health programs. From 2007 to 2010, he was Deputy Health Director for the Alexandria Virginia Health Department, where he managed clinic services and oversaw public health programs. Dr. Woodward served his country for over 22 years in the United States Air Force and retired at the rank of Colonel. In his varied assignments he cared for military families in Turkey, taught Family Practice residents as Assistant Clinical Professor, and led numerous Department of Defense programs in healthcare benefits, clinical quality improvement, preventive medicine, and public health policy. He finished his Air Force career as Deputy CEO at the Mike O’Callaghan Federal Hospital in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Dr. Woodward earned his Bachelor of Science from the University of Utah and his medical degree from Des Moines University. He holds a Master of Public Health degree from Johns Hopkins University. Dr. Woodward completed his Preventive Medicine residency at Johns Hopkins University and his Family Practice residency at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois. Dr. Woodward’s professional interests include chronic disease prevention, longevity, and lifestyle behaviors to maximize individual, family and community wellness.

Dr. Woodward enjoys wilderness backpacking, gardening, reading history, studying global affairs, exploring western deserts, and traveling abroad.

AUTUMN BEAR WELLNESS COLLECTIVE

Feel Well. Be Well. Live Well

With a dedicated team of MDs specializing in chronic disease management, functional aging, and longevity, complemented by our acupuncturists and sound healers, we partner with you to cultivate strength, balance, and resilience through every stage of life.

We believe wellness is about lasting foundations, not quick fixes. Whether you’re facing transitions, recovery, or just want to feel your best, we’re here to support you.

Location & Appointments: 5532 Lillehammer Lane, Suite 102, Park City, UT 84098

Book Online:

Schedule with Autumn Bear, Dr. Kelly Woodward, or Nichole Dreyer via our portal: https://autumnbear.janeapp.com

Contact Us:

autumn@autumnbear.com | Call/Text: 435-659-7633

nichole@autumnbear.com | Call/Text: 435-659-7633 kelly@autumnbear.com | Call/Text: 435-659-7633

Bringing Sparkle and Shine to Every Corner of Your Home

Our residential cleaning service is not just about cleanliness; it’s about caring for your home and the environment. We use eco-friendly products, offer customizable plans, and pay detailed attention to every corner of your home, all while reducing our environmental footprint.

Our commercial cleaning service ensures a professional environment. It includes floor cleaning, dusting, and restroom sanitization, all scheduled around your hours for your convenience.

Our deep cleaning service tackles hidden dirt and grime, making it ideal for special occasions. It also includes appliance interiors and detailed sanitization.

At Ochoa’s Cleaning LLC, with our extensive 20 years of experience, we are dedicated to providing top-notch cleaning services that you can trust.

We pride ourselves on our unique approach: ‘We Do More Than Just Cleaning.’ We aim to ensure every client experiences the highest cleanliness and customer service.

Cooling the Fire:

How Traditional Chinese Medicine Supports Late Summer Wellness

As August settles in, we begin to shift from the high heat and outward energy of summer into a slower, softer season known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Late Summer. It’s a brief but powerful transition; one that invites us to cool the fire, nourish ourselves more deeply, and return to center. In Chinese Medicine, Late Summer is ruled by the Earth element, which governs the Spleen and Stomach, our digestive organs responsible not just for breaking down food, but also for processing thoughts, emotions, and experiences. It’s a time to care for our inner soil; to support digestion, calm the mind, and restore balance after the intensity of summer.

Common Late Summer Symptoms:

As we move into this new season, some people feel off-balance and don’t know why. You might notice:

• Fatigue or sluggish digestion

• Brain fog or difficulty focusing

• Sugar cravings, bloating, or swelling

• Increased worry or overthinking

• Skin issues or lingering inflammation

These are all signs the Earth element may need extra support.

How Acupuncture Can Help:

Acupuncture helps bring the body into harmony with the season by:

• Cooling internal heat from summer

• Strengthening digestion and nutrient absorption

• Balancing mood and calming the nervous system

• Supporting fluid metabolism to clear dampness and inflammation

With consistent treatment, patients often feel more grounded, nourished, and clear—both physically and emotionally.

Easy Ways to Support Your Earth Element at Home:

• Eat warm, simple foods: Think lightly cooked veggies, soups, rice, and seasonal fruit.

• Avoid excessive raw, cold, or sugary foods that can weaken digestion.

• Stay hydrated with room-temperature water and minerals like LMNT.

• Slow down and ground: Establish a daily rhythm, spend time barefoot outside, and prioritize rest.

• Be gentle with yourself—this is a time to integrate, not initiate.

TCM Wisdom: The Five Elements & Seasonal Flow

In Chinese Medicine, each season is tied to a natural element and organ system:

• Spring – Wood (Liver/Gallbladder): growth, vision, movement

• Summer – Fire (Heart/Small Intestine): joy, expansion, expression

• Late Summer – Earth (Spleen/Stomach): nourishment, grounding, integration

• Autumn – Metal (Lungs/Large Intestine): letting go, clarity, grief

• Winter – Water (Kidneys/Bladder): rest, stillness, deep wisdom

By syncing our lives with these seasonal rhythms, we strengthen our health and emotional resilience.

Chinese Medicine teaches that healing is not a straight line; it’s a cycle, just like the seasons. As we shift into Late Summer, this is your invitation to pause, come home to your body, and nourish the parts of you that are ready to be tended.

If you’re feeling scattered, heavy, or in need of a reset, acupuncture may be exactly what your body is asking for. I’d love to support you in finding balance, clarity, and ease as we transition into fall.

To book a seasonal tune-up or learn more about how Chinese Medicine can support your whole self; body, mind, and spirit - visit www.kallieharrison.com or reach out directly. Your body will thank you.

Dr. Kallie Harrison

• Doctor of Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine (DACM)

• Licensed Acupuncturist (LAc)

• Registered Nurse (RN)

• Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT)

• Certified Psychedelic Therapist

With over two decades of experience in the healing world, I hold a doctorate in Chinese Medicine specializing in acupuncture and I am also a registered nurse, licensed massage therapist and certified psychedelic therapist. My commitment to healing extends beyond conventional methods, aiding individuals in preparing for and integrating transformative psychedelic experiences.

What sets my approach apart is the culmination of my diverse training and experiences. I blend acupuncture, cupping, gua sha, bodywork, energy work, tuning forks, sound healing, breathwork, and guided meditation into personalized sessions. I also offer guidance in supplement selection, herbal remedies, and nutrition planning to support holistic well-being. My philosophy centers on meeting each individual where they are on their healing journey and providing tailored support for their unique path to wellness.

www.kallieharrison.com

2078 Prospect Ave., Suite 2 Park City, UT 84060

(Inside The Prospect Executive Suites)

Cell: (801) 703-5280

© Best Version Media

CALL IN YOUR DREAM PARTNER

There is nothing more powerful than a successful businesswoman who knows exactly the kind of partner she desires, heals the deep wounds holding her back, and confidently calls in the man of her dreams; manifesting her partner into her life with unwavering certainty in her choice!

Coming out of a relationship and/or stepping into the possibility of a new one can be scary…but many women enter into incredible ones—especially when they do these two things: 1. they’re certain of what they truly desire in a partner, and 2. They heal their deep wounds from previous relationship(s). If not, studies show that you’re bound to repeat past relationship problems, just with a different person. When a woman gains clarity about what she truly desires in a partner, that’s when the real transformation begins. As a successful businesswoman, you already know you have the power to create what you want and eliminate anything holding you back from it. So why wouldn’t the same approach apply to your romantic life?

If you’re unsure or don’t yet have a clear vision of what this kind of romantic relationship would even look like, I’d like to share some helpful tips to guide you. And by the way, healthy relationships are not only possible—they’re absolutely real!

STEP ONE: CREATE WHAT YOU DESIRE! CREATE YOUR LIST OF 100

1. List 50 Characteristics and Attributes You Want in Your Partner: What qualities do you admire in others—whether it’s a hot celebrity, a close friend’s relationship, or someone you look up to. What attributes do they have that you value? Compassion, ambition, humor, loyalty? Write down 50 characteristics and attributes you desire in a partner. This exercise will help you clearly define the type of person you want to call in and manifest into your life.

2. List 25 Experiences You’d Like to Share with Your Partner: Consider the experiences you dream of having. This could be traveling to specific places, trying new activities, or sharing life’s milestones. By identifying these experiences, you not only visualize a future full of adventure, but you also open yourself up to exciting opportunities—whether you manifest a partner or not.

3. List 25 Things You Want to Become with Your Partner: Think about the person you want to evolve into—individually and within a partnership. Do you want to be more adventurous, kinder, healthier, more creative? Defining these personal growth goals will help you recognize if a potential partner aligns with the person you aspire to be. You’ll have a clear vision of who you want to become and can actively work toward that vision—on your own or with someone by your side. This will make you more fulfilled, regardless of your relationship status.

This exercise gives you a clear, well-rounded vision of what you truly desire in your ideal partner. But before you start calling him in, there’s one more crucial step to take… STEP TWO is healing your deepest wounds that are holding you back from having your dream partner. And the good news is—it’s much easier than you think! I’d love to invite you to watch the video “Call In Your Dream Partner” by scanning the QR code to get started. Imagine how it will feel when you’ve healed your deepest wounds, leaving the past behind you, knowing that you are inherently worthy, loveable and more than enough; that the void within you is filled with pure self-love as you confidently call in the man of your dreams; manifesting your partner into your life with unwavering certainty in your choice!

I’d be honored to guide you into calling in your dream partner. Feel free to reach out. I’m here for you.

.

I’m Camilla Peterson.

As a Master Practitioner and Trainer in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Time Line Therapy®, I’ve helped hundreds of individuals break through the limits of their mind and get unstuck in their business and careers. Through my work, I’ve discovered a powerful connection between professional success and sexual fulfillment, as well as the relationship one has with themselves and their partner.

I’ve had the privilege of working with founders, CEOs, and professionals— helping them overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, sexual trauma, and more. My clients have reclaimed their power, finding greater freedom, joy, and intimacy in both their personal and professional lives.

My mission is to guide you on a transformative journey of selfdiscovery, unlocking deeper pleasure, purpose, and fulfillment in every area of your life. I’d be honored to support you as you take a quantum leap toward your fullest potential!

INTRODUCING ALIGN ELEVATED

WHERE MEDICAL AESTHETICS MEET MINDFUL WELLNESS

We’re proud to introduce Align Elevated, an extension of Align Spa and your new destination for Holistic Med Spa Treatments. Led by co-owner Amy Asherman (RN & LMT), Align Elevated brings the same warmth and professionalism you know and trust—now with fillers and injectables designed to enhance your natural beauty through a wellness lens.

Join us Thursday, August 14th from 5-7 pm at Align Spa for our official

Align Elevated launch party! Follow @alignspa_elevated for more information

We caught up with co-owner Amy Asherman, RN & LMT, to talk about her journey through nursing school, the philosophy behind Align Elevated, and what’s next for this unique blend of spa and medical aesthetics.

Was owning a med spa always part of your plan, or did that evolve over time?

That definitely evolved over time. I didn’t think, at least in the beginning, that a med spa would be part of the picture. But give me a challenge, and I’ll jump on it. You want me to go to nursing school and open a med spa? All right, let’s do it—I’m in. It didn’t take a lot of convincing.

How has your background in massage influenced both your studies and your client care?

Anatomy was so much easier because I already had a strong understanding of the body. This was just a deeper dive. In hospitals, patient care isn’t always personal. In aesthetics—and definitely in massage—it’s about connection. It's not just "what are your symptoms?" but “how do you feel?” I carried that perspective into my internships. I’d ask, “How are you feeling, not just physically, but emotionally?” That same mindset carries into aesthetics—understanding why someone wants a treatment, and how it makes them feel.

Were there any surprising lessons during nursing school that changed how you view patient care?

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Definitely. Aesthetics is very different from traditional nursing. Nursing school focused more on internal medicine and patient care in hospital or clinical settings. Here, I get to do the fun stuff. But it really highlighted how impersonal care can feel in a hospital. That contrast made me want to maintain a more connected, holistic approach in aesthetics.

Where do you see Align Elevated in one year? What about in five years?

In one year, I’d love to expand our services— maybe bring in another injector and open up more advanced esthetics like IPL, PRP, or IV therapy. But that also means we’ll need more space. In five years, I’d love to see Align Elevated with its own dedicated space—a full med spa working alongside the day spa. Still "Align," but with its own vibe and identity.

for, inside and out.

Do you think your intuition makes you more aware of patients’ emotional needs?

Yes, for sure. During my capstone, I got really close with some long-term patients—even in just 11 days. One patient passed away an hour before I arrived. It crushed me. That experience taught me I needed to set emotional boundaries, or I’d burn out. I’m learning how to balance my sensitivity without letting it overwhelm me. As a massage therapist, I was already caring for people. That drive carried into nursing. I loved taking care of people and wanted them to feel better—that’s been my

Yes! It’s a great introduction for clients who might be hesitant about fillers. It naturally plumps the skin, especially in areas like smile lines.

Sounds like your philosophy is more natural, not frozen faces.

Exactly. I’m not here to blow up lips or freeze faces. I want people to feel like the best version of themselves—and if that means a little more, or a little less, we’ll find what works best for them.

What sets Align Elevated apart from other

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Stay Safe, Look Great: Skin Resilience for Late Summer

By Dr. Giselle M. Batcheller, DDS, IBDM

August brings a richness to summer: longer hikes, brighter skies, and warmer sun. But behind the beauty lies intensity, especially at elevation. The skin bears this burden quietly: increased UV exposure, dry mountain air, and environmental stress that accumulates over time. Rather than just covering up, late summer is the perfect time to build resilience by strengthening the skin from within.

In my practice, we approach skin health as a reflection of cellular vitality. If the cells are supported, the tissues can adapt more easily, recover more quickly, and maintain a healthier, more luminous appearance season after season. One of the most powerful ways we do this is through full-body light therapy with the TheraLight 360+. This cuttingedge modality uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to energize the mitochondria, the powerhouses of your cells. The result is not only visible skin improvements, like tone, texture, and elasticity, but also deeper support for the systems that help the body repair and defend itself naturally. When your cells are thriving, the skin becomes more resistant to environmental stressors, including the summer sun.

Hydration plays an equally essential role. But we go a step beyond water alone. Molecular hydrogen water, available in our office and for home use, offers extraordinary antioxidant support. It works at the cellular level to neutralize damaging free radicals without disrupting essential signaling in the body. Clients love how they feel drinking it and how their skin responds over time. Some even enjoy hydrogen baths to bring this rejuvenation to the body as a whole.

Nutrition, of course, matters deeply. The skin reflects what we consume: antioxidants, healthy fats, and hydration all help build a more resilient skin barrier. And when complemented with bioactive skincare, the effects are amplified.

I’m especially fond of Cuvget, a Scandinavian skincare line grounded in Arctic marine biotechnology. With what I call an “effective SPF,” Cuvget doesn’t just protect—it restores. Its formulations are intelligent, refined, and deeply aligned with a regenerative philosophy.

The goal isn’t just to look good in summer light—it’s to support long-term beauty, health, and adaptability in every season.

I’m Dr. Giselle Batcheller, a regenerative esthetics expert, proud Parkite, author, and international educator in PRF and lightbased medicine. Since 2018, I’ve helped doctors and patients discover elegant, evidence-based ways to support long-term health and beauty. To explore health, beauty, light therapy, hydrogen water, or to request a complimentary virtual consultation, visit DrBatcheller.com or follow along on social media.

BY ISABELLA VENEGAS

Mental Health & Pregnancy Part II

“There was something about holding my baby for the first time that changed my life forever.”

My sister-in-law, Haley, participated in a previous article about mental health and her pregnancy journey. In the second part of the series, Haley will talk about the beautiful close of her pregnancy and the beginning of a new chapter in her life with her son.

Haley began by describing the process of leading up to her son’s birth. She revealed her anxiety of going into labor earlier than her son's due date since her mother had this experience with all her children. However, proving the point that all women's birth processes are unique, Haley’s baby was overdue. After talking to her midwife, she was scheduled for an induction at 41 weeks. She knew very well that she would not be coming home until her son was finally in her arms.

Haley revealed that there is a stigma surrounding induction and use of pain medication during labor. She knew indefinitely that induction was the best thing for her situation but struggled more with the possibility of receiving pain medication. Haley received an induction catheter, placed on monitors, and changed into her hospital attire.

“The baby looked healthy and I slowly started progressing to more intense and frequent contractions,” Haley recalled. She desired to see how her body handled the natural labor pain and did not have pain interventions until she decided to try nitrous oxide which she found

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unhelpful. Her contractions became increasingly intense. She could not handle the pain and decided to get the epidural. Haley talked to many people previously about natural births and had been told by women around her that unmediated labor births gave them a sense of accomplishment. “Labor is one of the hardest things to go through not only physically but mentally as well, and any woman who goes through labor unmediated is absolutely a superwoman,” Haley told us. “However, I don’t think that the underlying message—that women who go through labor with pain medication are any weaker or less than—is healthy for anyone to hear.” She continued to state that if pressured to have an unmediated birth, a woman’s labor can be much more traumatic than the experience needs to be. Haley decided to listen to her body and mind and do what was right for her. With the medication, Haley felt an overwhelming relief of peace. She could fully focus on giving birth with a sense of control. Haley and her husband’s baby boy was born just after midnight. “It was the most beautiful thing I’ve ever experienced,” Haley said passionately. Her son was healthy and blessed with no complications. Haley acknowledged that this blessing was not always the case for everyone and she was grateful for the result of her nine months experience. “I think what helped me was going into labor with an open mind,” she told us. She openly communicated with her birth team and husband. The next most important thing to Haley during this process was her support system. Her husband, Angelo, constantly cared for her during the most difficult parts of her labor. “During my delivery, he held my hand and stayed right by my side comforting me and I knew he had

my back the whole time,” she remembered.

When asked what three words would describe the experience of giving birth, Haley said life-changing, intense, and joyful. Her experience was life-changing because she was forever changed after bringing her son into the world. The intensity came from the events leading up to the birth. And how could holding her baby not be joyful? She cried, and in that moment, her gratitude outweighed her exhaustion.

“The first night home from the hospital was one of the most rough nights we experienced since I was back in my 1st trimester,” Haley told us. Luckily, Haley’s mother and sister came to tend the baby and gave her a chance to finally rest.

Haley spoke about the physical and mental changes of postpartum. While she had no complication in her recovery, her body looked different and she had severe lack of sleep which gave her a delirious sense of depression and anxiety. She began getting sleep as her support system helped her and she began taking supplements to help her body recover. Addressing postpartum depression, Haley said, “It is something you need to be aware of and reach out for help.” If she didn’t sleep or eat correctly, she began feeling more depressed. “It is easy to lose yourself if you aren’t careful,” she warned.

But was it worth it? “The way he smiles and coos makes my whole day and this whole experience worth it,” Haley told us. To her, there is nothing quite like holding her little one and knowing she went through all those challenges for such a tiny person. “I would literally lay my life down for him, and I know that feeling will never change,” she smiled.

minutes from Deer Valley’s new East Village ski lifts, Ameyalli Residence Club boasts serene views of the majestic Wasatch Mountains. The Club’s four-bedroom,

RESIDENCE CLUB

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BY RACHEL FRIEDMAN, STOKE COACH

Beyond the Gym

RETHINKING MOVEMENT IN A PLACE THAT MOVES US

For years, we’ve been told that if we just hit the gym for an hour a day, we’re “doing enough.” But what if that mindset is holding us back?

Movement and mindfulness are deeply intertwined—not because yoga told us so, but because the body is the mind in motion. Yet modern fitness culture often divorces the two. We go to a fluorescent-lit gym, put in our reps, close our rings, and then sit for the next eight hours. We treat exercise as a task to check off, not a way of being.

But if you live in a place like Park City, you already know that movement can—and should—be part of how you live, not something you squeeze into your schedule. Here, we’re lucky. Movement is built into the landscape. From early morning hikes on Round Valley to evening rides down Armstrong, motion doesn’t just happen inside—it spills into the fresh mountain air. It’s not rare to see someone mountain biking before work, paddleboarding at lunch, and walking with their dog at sunset. That’s not just recreation—it’s a rhythm. A mindful one. And yet, even here, the gym mentality persists. We see it in people who crush a ski conditioning class and then sit all day behind a screen. Or in those who rush through a morning run, disconnected from the beauty

around them. When we limit movement to a single hour, even in an outdoor town like ours, we miss the opportunity to live in alignment with the environment we moved here for.

One hour in a gym doesn’t offset 23 hours of disconnection—not physically, not emotionally, not energetically.

Mindful movement happens when you pause during a walk to look at the wildflowers. When you stretch on your deck and feel the sun hit your back. When you carry groceries up Main Street and notice your breath. These aren’t just tasks—they’re invitations to come back to your body.

What if we used our surroundings as daily cues for reconnection?

What if we infused our days with micromovements that connect us back to ourselves? Five minutes of breath-led stretching in the morning. A walking meeting. A midday dance break. Foam rolling while your kid builds a tower. A squat or plank while waiting for the kettle to boil.

If you’re busy, start small: take phone calls while walking. Park farther from your destination. Add a few mobility moves to your morning routine. Take a five-minute stretch break between tasks. Carry your

groceries with intention. Walk around the block before picking up your kids. These aren’t just practical—they’re powerful. These are the in-between moments that rewire your relationship with your body.

These moments count. They nourish us on a cellular and emotional level. They create energy, clarity, and aliveness—not just calorie burn.

Intentional movement throughout the day invites you to listen to your body’s cues and shift your state with purpose. You’re not just moving to sculpt a muscle; you’re moving to shift your mood, your nervous system, your outlook. You’re showing up for yourself again and again, in small, meaningful ways.

We don’t need more willpower. We need more presence.

Park City gives us the perfect canvas to reimagine movement. Our trails, seasons, and community energy support a more integrated way of living. Let’s stop stuffing movement into a box labeled “gym” and start letting it spill into every part of our day. Let’s redefine what “enough” looks like.

Because when you move intentionally—often, mindfully, joyfully—you’re not just staying fit. You’re living awake. And in a town as alive as Park City, that’s exactly what we came here to do.

THE ART OF PRESENCE MEDITATION BEYOND THE MAT

In a world that moves faster each day, meditation offers a needed invitation: slow down, tune in, and simply be. Once seen as a spiritual practice limited to monasteries or yoga retreats, meditation is now recognized as a powerful tool for clarity, resilience, and well-being—and it’s more accessible than ever.

Forget the image of sitting cross-legged in silence for hours. Meditation isn’t performance; it’s a state of mind. It’s a space between waking and dreaming, where you observe thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment. Whether walking in nature, sipping tea, or focusing on your breath for a few minutes, meditation meets you where you are.

Ancient texts from India, China, Greece, and later religions like Christianity, Judaism, and Islam describe contemplative practices as early as 1500 BCE. Meditation evolved as a sacred ritual to connect with the divine or attain self-realization. In the modern era, thought leaders like Thich Nhat Hanh and Jon Kabat-Zinn brought mindfulness meditation into mainstream awareness, offering practical tools for stress.

From a scientific viewpoint, meditation does more than calm you down. It enhances brain function, supports better sleep, lowers blood pressure, and boosts immunity. Emotionally, it helps regulate moods, reduces anxiety and depression, and fosters self-awareness and compassion. Spiritually, it deepens a sense of connection, purpose, and inner peace. Studies show that even brief daily practices can significantly reduce stress and anxiety. A 2018 meta-analysis found mindfulness interventions as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety and depression. Meditation also improves resilience, helps manage chronic pain, supports addiction recovery, and enhances overall well-being. If you think, I don’t have time to meditate, you’re not alone. Many struggle with consistency, distractions, or self-judgment. The key is approaching meditation with curiosity, not expectation. Instead of aiming for perfection, commit to presence—even for just a few minutes. You don’t need a guru or fancy cushion; willingness is enough. Explore different methods until something resonates. Popular styles

include guided meditation, breath awareness, body scan, loving-kindness, and mindful movement. Even everyday tasks like dishes, gardening, or preparing food can become meditative when done mindfully.

You don’t have to “do” meditation; you only need to create space to be. Start with a routine—five minutes in the morning or a few deep breaths before bed. Place your mat or cushion where you see it, or set a reminder. Consistency, not intensity, creates transformation.

Meditation invites us home to ourselves—no passport, schedule, or gear required. Just a few moments daily can reconnect you with what truly matters.

Ready to begin?

Join me every Wednesday from 4:30–5:00 PM at the Midway Studio Collective for a guided breathwork and meditation class. These 30 minutes will help you reset, reconnect, and root into the present—no experience needed. Come as you are… leave lighter.

Dental Wellness + Studio

Discover the Rise Difference. We intentionally schedule fewer patients to allow adequate time to give you our full attention and address all your dental concerns. We offer wellness-based dental care to all ages as well as complete smile renovations.

In our studio, we provide workshops for the development of your “Inner Smile” which encompasses overall physical, mental, emotional and energetic wellbeing.

Dr. Ryan Osorio

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TRAVELING THIS SUMMER?

DON’T FORGET TO PACK YOUR GUT HEALTH

Summer travel is something we all look forward to—but it can also wreak havoc on your digestion. Bloating, constipation, and even traveler’s diarrhea are incredibly common when we’re on the go, especially for those already dealing with sensitive stomachs or underlying gut issues.

Why does this happen? Travel often disrupts the delicate balance in your digestive system. From time zone changes and altered sleep patterns to unfamiliar foods and increased stress, your gut takes the hit. But the good news is—you can set yourself up for success with just a few simple strategies.

As a holistic nutritionist specializing in gut health, I help clients navigate everything from IBS and food sensitivities to post-travel symptoms that just don’t go away. With a little planning, you can enjoy your vacation and come home feeling great.

BEFORE YOU GO:

Start boosting your fiber and hydration a few days before you leave. Think chia seeds, leafy greens, and plenty of water—especially if you’re flying. Magnesium supplements (like magnesium citrate or glycinate) can also be helpful for staying regular.

I also recommend packing a few gut-supporting essentials:

• A shelf-stable probiotic (look for one with Saccharomyces boulardii)

• Electrolyte packets to stay hydrated

• Digestive enzymes and ginger chews for heavier meals

• A gentle herbal antimicrobial if you're traveling internationally (like oil of oregano or berberine)

SKIP THE AIRPORT FOOD (YOUR GUT WILL THANK YOU)

Pack snacks that travel well: nuts and seeds, boiled eggs, hummus packs, fresh fruit, or a wrap made at home. You’ll save money and avoid gut irritants like processed oils and added sugars commonly found in airport or gas station foods.

ONCE YOU ARRIVE:

Try to maintain a bit of rhythm—regular mealtimes, hydration, and daily movement all help keep your digestion on track. Don’t overdo alcohol or sugar, and get some fiber-rich foods on your plate when you can. Even small things like walking after meals or winding down with herbal tea can support your gut while traveling.

And If You Come Home Feeling “Off”...

Post-travel bloating, stomach cramps, or irregularity can sometimes linger longer than expected. If your gut doesn’t bounce back, it could be a sign something deeper is going on—like microbial imbalances or exposure to a gut pathogen.

This is where my Gut Restore Assessment comes in. It includes advanced stool testing to help identify what’s really going on inside your gut and gives you clear next steps to heal and feel your best.

Wishing you smooth travels—and smooth digestion—this summer!

Emilie Davis is a holistic nutritionist based in Park City and Salt Lake City area. She offers virtual coaching programs, personalized meal plans, and functional testing to support gut health from the inside out. Learn more at www.wholeessentialsnutrition.com.

Get real answers with a GI MAP stool testno scopes, no stress!

BY KIRSTEN KOHLWEY

ALPINE LOOP SCENIC BYWAY

FROM CAVES TO PADDLEBOARDING

After just over an hour of driving we enter American Fork Canyon from the west. The visitor center for Timpanogos Cave National Monument (TCNM) is about two miles ahead. This area is part of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. If you stop at one of the recreational sites other than TCNM, you need to purchase a pass. Passes start at $10 but America the Beautiful Federal Recreational Lands passes are also valid. We booked our cave tour online. Check-in is in front of the visitor center. They have a clear box to verify that your bag or backpack is acceptable to take into the cave and give you a safety briefing.

TCNM, a cashless facility, offers three different types of cave tours starting at $12 for adults.

The 1.5 mile trail up the mountain provides spectacular views and education about the rock formations and environment during the almost 1,100 feet in elevation gain. We encounter quite a few hikers that walk the trail for exercise and the views without going on a cave tour. In either case, avoiding the hottest part of the day and taking water along is advisable. Our tour takes us past the entrance section of Hansen Cave, through Middle Cave and into Timpanogos Cave, all connected with manmade tunnels. So far TCNM has identified

ASHLEY

MONTAGUE,

MA, AMFT,

ACMHC | Psychotherapy and Coaching

Psychotherapy & Coaching

Integrative Psychotherapist and Coach for Adults and Teens at The Still Point Collective.

To explore working together, or to learn more about writing therapy groups, yoga retreats, nature therapy, and other upcoming offerings, reach out to ashley@amontague.com.

I’d love to hear from you!

stillpointutah.com

PHOTOS BY KIRSTEN KOHLWEY AND CARL HENDERSON

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34 invertebrates in the caves. Be prepared to climb stairs and duck even on the standard tour, which shows off gorgeous formations and the differences between the three caves.

We picnic at the tables in the parking lot before continuing on Highway 92 but the canyon offers plenty of other picnic areas, most even with restrooms. Our next stop is Tibble Fork Reservoir, reached via a wellmarked side road off Hwy 92. The views from this area transport you into a mountain wonderland with a water playground in the middle. I can’t believe I had never explored this place before. Plenty of swimmers, paddleboarders and kayak enthusiasts beat us there, but the reservoir is big enough to accommodate the crowd. Unfortunately, the restrooms are closed since the vaults are full. We encountered this in several areas with different explanations that come out to the same: lack of funding and staff.

American Fork Canyon is reported to have Fremont era pictographs along the walls but with all the trees and vegetation, we failed to find them. Plenty of spots for camping present themselves along American Fork River and then along Cascade Springs Road. Watch out for bicyclists and motorcyclists. Some drive quite fast, coming down the narrow roads. We pass a film crew, who are likely shooting car

commercials or mountain driving scenes for a movie. They have their base camp set up in the Upper Cascade Springs parking lot. One brave soul rode a nonmotorized scooter down to the base camp. Meanwhile, a deer is not bothered while eating next to the road.

We park at the Lower Cascade Springs parking lot. The walkways through the wetlands loop around what should be two lakes, but the water level is so low that the upper lake no longer looks like a lake––more like wetlands with shallow creeks running through them. This is a fun area for photography. Tiny waterfalls cascade among the vegetation and under a few of them flowstone has formed. Yellow warblers fly back and forth, and butterflies are plentiful. Birds, fish, and insects attract everyone’s attention. Mammals were hiding during this time of the day. From here you can head back to American Fork Canyon, enter Wasatch Mountain State Park on a dirt road or continue to Midway.

We head back to the Alpine Scenic Loop Bypass and turn towards Sundance Resort. Recent windstorms seem to have toppled over large aspens, but they don’t block the now narrow road. As we loop downhill, the remnants of Mount Timpanogos’s glaciers are clearly visible. A plein air painter is just packing away his tools. We will have to return

to hike up Mount Timpanogos. Our leg muscles are already indicating distress from the steep hike earlier. Along this stretch of road dead conifers dominate the landscape, not from forest fires but likely from beetle infestations.

Sundance Resort looks like a construction zone but once you dare to park, some of the old-time charm remains. The chairlift shuttles people up the mountain, quite a few of them look like they are attending a wedding. We enter the restaurant area and order food at The Deli. Sitting in the anteroom to The Foundry Grill provides a pleasant break from the glaring sun. The historic photos from the start of the Sundance Institute showing Quentin Tarantino during the shooting of Reservoir Dogs and a younger Alan Alda offer a look into early indie film making in Utah.

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BY SANDY GELDHOF

YOGA ELEVATED WITH PARK CITY YOGA ADVENTURES!

If you’ve never experienced yoga on a paddleboard in a world-renowned crater, or lied back in a silk hammock for an other-worldly forest meditation, you haven’t experienced one of Park City’s most unique outdoor adventure companies offering distinctly curated yoga excursions for locals and visitors alike.

Julia Geisler and Blake Summers Offer Unique Yoga Excursions with a Twist Embracing

Since 2012, Park City Yoga Adventures (PCYA), led by Heber residents Julia Geisler and Blake Summers, have enthralled participants with excursions you just won’t find in the many yoga studios peppered throughout Park City. And each of the activities is customized to take full advantage of the natural geography and unique recreation landscape of the Intermountain West. From hiking, snowshoeing, and balancing on the Caribbean-like waters of the Homestead Crater in Midway, PCYA pairs various yogabased modalities into each of their offerings and customizes each experience to its participants.

Adventurers by heart, both Blake and Julia’s love for the outdoors have deep roots. Julia grew up in Deep Creek Lake in Maryland, where her father ran a ski resort, and both her parents fostered a profound respect and appreciation for the mountains and the outdoors in her and her siblings. With a degree in environmental science Julia also studied

dance and traveled the world, chalking up a 2,000-mile trek through the Appalachian Trail, taught English in Japan, and worked as a guide for various outdoor outfitters. Her first experience in yoga was a class she took in Japan. “I didn’t know what they were saying but they were twisting us into pretzels,” she laughed.

and incorporating nature with yoga provides participants with an other-worldly experience

After moving to Park City, she attended a yoga class at PC MARC and was hooked. “I was like, oh, this is like dancing on a yoga mat, I like this.” She went on to receive her certification and began teaching classes, including students at the Oakley school, an alternative education facility in the Kamas valley. “I was teaching outdoor adventure stuff and decided to take them to different studios along with hiking and they liked it,” she said. Her aha moment came when she thought, “maybe tourists would like this.”

Blake shared a similar spirit for the outdoors. Born in Texas, his family moved extensively during his youth, and he found himself in Marin County, CA, mountain biking and skiing Squaw Valley. A few years in Santa Fe as a ski tech led him to Park City in 1994. “I didn’t even know where Park City was on a map,” he laughed. Blake and Julia found themselves working together at a Park City restaurant and romance quickly blossomed. “It took about 24 hours,” Julia laughed. That was 12 years ago, and the recent newlyweds are now partners in life and business.

Julia formed Park City Yoga adventures in 2013, and her offerings and client base quickly caught on. The business incorporates the unique outdoor palate of the Wasatch Back. The couple now run a four-season yoga adventure company which has received world-acclaim with features in media from all over the globe, including press from the US, Japan, and Australia. “Our paddleboard yoga was included in a book called 50 Water Adventures to Do Before You Die,” she said. “I think it’s the only place in the world you can do this.”

From a guided meditation lounging in silk hammocks in an aspen grove near Guardsman’s Pass to curated hikes and snowshoeing followed by yoga in a heated yurt on private land (complete with tea service), PCYA is a

PHOTOS BY SANDRA SALVAS, SARAH JONES, AND ROSS DOWNARD

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break from the typical downdog. Embracing and incorporating nature with yoga provides participants with an other-worldly experience’, according to the couple. “Just being in a forest and experiencing all of the sensory elements you don’t have to visualize you’re there because you actually are,” said Julia. Blake agreed. “It’s amazing, and you’re absorbing all of this positive energy and it’s just so awesome,” he said.

Using Japanese modalities and philosophies is key to many of the experiences. “So basically, going to nature and using all of your senses to fight stress and absorbing all of the benefits you get from nature is our own twist,” said Blake, who became involved in the guided adventures from sharing his love of rock climbing with Julia. “Climbing is like yoga on the rock, and we have both been adventure guides, so it crossed

over and it kind of morphed into running the business together,” Julia shared.

Their business model has been a hit with groups looking for a creative option to share an experience, among women in particular, said the couple. “Park City is a big bachelorette destination town so we’re a really popular option for that market, but also families who want an alternative to the regular adventure activities here,” said Blake. “When we were designing our tours, we wanted to be creative and offer 3-hour excursions which is the average experience for our activities, and keeping yoga at the core.”

A key to their success has been to curate each tour with the needs and abilities of the group, Julia said. “Our business motto is ‘Get outside

and breathe’ and so every experience reinforces that. Whether it’s yoga on a paddleboard in a 10,000-year-old hot-spring-in-a-cave, or yoga in silk hammocks, or Snowshoe and yoga in a yurt under the stars, it’s about combining breath with nature. And where else can you find the natural beauty that we have here in Utah?”

A unique element to most public tour operations in town, the couple have built relationships with owners of private land that allow them the use of private yurts for their sunrise and sunset yoga hikes and snowshoe and are building on that popularity. “Our Guardsman Pass location is one of those really unique settings and it’s private and intimate and a place the public can’t go, and it’s got these insane backcountry views of Clayton’s Peak and wildflowers. There’s nothing like it,” said Julia.

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HELPERS NEED HELP TOO:

LOCAL NON-PROFITS USE GRANTS TO GROW AND SERVE COMMUNITY

Park City in 2025 is many things all at once: A vacation paradise, a thriving community of transplants enjoying great schools and outdoor opportunities, a roaring economy poised for even more growth as Utah prepares its return to the global spotlight as host of the 2034 Winter Olympic Games. It is also, like any community, a place where people face ongoing challenges and struggle with crises.

the need is for those services.

“I think there’s a myth where people think everyone living in Park City is wealthy, and that’s not true,” says Christine Coleman, Vice President of Communications and Marketing for the Park City Community Foundation (PCCF). “There’s a large community of people who are lower and middle income who struggle to make ends meet.”

Beyond that reality, some emergencies and crises affect everyone, regardless of socioeconomic status.

The demographics of the Wasatch Back support robust philanthropic efforts, and it can be both comforting and sobering to learn about the array of services citizens have access to––and to understand how extensive

Parkites with time or resources to help may feel compelled to focus on areas that resonate personally, or learn about where needs are

greatest and work on those. An array of non-profit organizations tackle issues facing seniors, environmental causes, animals, housing challenges, literacy, emergency services––the list goes on.

This summer, as it has every year for the past decade, PCCF’s Women’s Giving Fund is spotlighting and supporting local groups whose work aligns with the fund’s goal of making large grants to help ensure women and children thrive here. The fund is awarding $150,000 to be divided among three groups:

Peace House – Dedicated to ending interpersonal violence and abuse and empowering survivors to heal and thrive by providing support services, safe housing, and prevention education.

SOS Outreach – A national program founded in 1993, its mission is to change lives through

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Wasatch Immigration Project

provides immigration-related legal services in the Wasatch Back and surrounding areas to asylum seekers, victims of domestic violence, trafficking, and other crimes, including minors who are unaccompanied or have suffered abuse, abandonment, or neglect.

Palmer Daniels, Utah Program Manager for SOS Outreach, says the organization’s mentoring program helps well over 500 kids every year to get outside and onto skis and snowboards––kids who might not otherwise have the chance to be part of that world.

“Really, at the heart of SOS we build belonging, opportunity, and community through the fun of the mountains and the friendships that come with that,” Daniels says. “Readers, please don't hesitate to reach out, we'd love you all to join us in creating a place of belonging for all Park City youth in the mountains and beyond.”

Kendra Wycoff is executive director of Peace House. She says grant funds will enable Peace House to continue vital work with students despite government cuts to funding.

“In the 2024–25 school year, the program reached 3,476 students and faculty through 178 presentations,” she says. “Due to changes

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in government grant priorities, Peace House will lose the only staff member focused exclusively on this work in Summit County, threatening the consistency and reach of this life-saving program. Continued support is critical to ensuring every child receives the education they need to grow up safe, informed, and empowered.”

Women’s Giving Fund grants.

Formed in 2023, the Wasatch Immigration Project is the newest organization of the three. Executive Director and volunteer Attorney Maggie Abuhaidar says it reflects an urgent need for affordable, high quality legal services for the community’s Latin population––a group of citizens that play a critical role in the local tourism, hospitality, and construction industries that comprise Park City’s booming economy.

“With more than 10% of the Summit County population composed of Latin individuals, WIP provides critical legal services to a significant segment of our community who are navigating the complex immigration process, often without the ability to pay for an attorney,” she says. Recent changes to immigration policy and enforcement have created tremendous confusion and fear, making our most vulnerable community members even more vulnerable.”

Each of those three has been doing valuable work for years, but has plans and goals to

Peace House seeks to equip all K–12 students in Summit County with age-appropriate violence prevention education by retaining a dedicated Prevention Specialist to deliver body and relationship safety curriculum in local schools.

SOS Outreach will support local youth with year-round programming that fosters belonging, resilience, and leadership through outdoor recreation, mentoring, and socialemotional learning.

Wasatch Immigration Project will provide consistent, affordable immigration legal services to women and children in Park City and the Wasatch Back by sustaining a full-time staff attorney and expanding its team of volunteer attorneys to meet growing demand.

While needs are significant, so are the passions and talents of those working to help. But they can’t do it alone! More hands on deck are welcome and appreciated.

For information about getting involved with PCCF, The Women's Giving Fund or its beneficiaries through the years, visit parkcitycf.org.

Every Thursday evening at Heber City’s Utah Valley University campus, a circle forms—not just of chairs, but of connection, compassion and courage. The gathering is Circles Heber Valley, a grassroots organization dedicated to help individuals and families move from surviving to thriving. Through this empowering organization, participants connect with peers and a supportive network of mentors to develop the tools they need to achieve lasting financial and personal independence. “Circles helps people in poverty create the scaffolding they need to get to higher ground,” says Circles Heber Valley Coach Jeri Davis. “And that’s when life starts to get better.”

While Circles Heber Valley is relatively new—Jeri established the Heber Valley chapter in August 2023—Circles USA is not. In 1992, as he was seeking to address the systematic causes of poverty, CEO and founder of The Poverty Solution, Scott Miller, created what was then known as the Circle Campaign. This unique model pairs people experiencing poverty, called Circle Leaders, with community volunteers, or Allies, to build intentional friendships and provide support as the Circle Leaders work towards economic stability and overall well-being. There are now 70 Circles chapters across the U.S., including six in Utah, in Salt Lake City, Provo, Price, Ogden, Clearfield and Heber City.

Circles Heber Valley is what Jeri describes as a “labor of love.” “I worked for the Department of Workforce Services for ten years and watched people struggle and just never get ahead,” she says. “I am very

passionate about helping people lift themselves out of situational or generational poverty and so when the job as a Circles coach in Heber City became available I jumped at the opportunity.”

The Circles journey begins with the weekly family dinner, held every Thursday evening at Utah Valley University’s Heber City campus at 5:45 p.m. There Circle Leaders and their families and Allies get to know one another over a complimentary meal. After dinner, Circle Leaders attend class where they learn essential life management skills, set goals and build relationships that become the foundation for their path forward. (Since most Circle Leaders are single parents, a children’s program runs at the same time as the class offering childcare for younger children and homework help for older kids.)

Though the curriculum can vary based on the group, a cornerstone of Circles 12-week class is creating a dream board, which serves as the first step in developing a road map for change. “This is really transformative for Circle leaders,” Jeri says. “Many people in poverty have never had the time or opportunity to dream about their future or what they might want for themselves, they are so busy in the moment just trying to pay their bills and keep food on the table.”

Subsequent classes cover topics like relationship building skills, the vocabulary and language of applying for a job, exploring money mindsets and the hidden rules of the middle class. “I use a lot of the understanding I gained from what I did before I was a Circles coach,” Jeri says. “We also help Leaders navigate state or federal benefits

Ann and Bruce Fillmore

Circles Provo

they may be receiving. There’s many, many hoops to jump through to receive assistance–the paperwork for applying for food stamps alone can be really daunting. And we’re here to help with that.”

But above and beyond Circles’ 12-week life-skills class, what Jeri says makes the most meaningful impact on Circle Leaders are the Allies. “Circle Leaders just need a little hope, and that’s where the Allies come in,” she says.

Ann and Bruce Fillmore of American Fork had been Allies for Circles Provo for several years when they were invited to be Allies

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with Circles Heber Valley. They now serve as Allies for Circle Leaders within both chapters. “There’s a big need and we get a lot out of helping people,” Bruce says.

Examples of the ways the Fillmores have lent Circle Leaders a hand over the years include setting up a garden irrigation system, providing help in a move, organizing a garage sale and picking up children from daycare. “For many reasons, they [Circle Leaders] just don’t have a network of family or friends to call on,” Ann says. “And so, we provide the support that many of us take for granted.”

Other Circle Leaders need what Bruce described as “a cheerleader.” “Allies are people who are on their side, giving them emotional support and providing them with a little social capital,” he explained.

The minimum time commitment to being an Ally is six months, but most stay on much longer. And to be clear, providing a Circle Leader with monetary support is not what being an Ally is about. “Many people in poverty are dealing with really hard things,” Jeri says. “The Allies let them know that they are not in this alone, that you don’t have to go it alone. And when they realize that you see these amazing transformations occur.”

Transformation is an apt description of how Kellie Rhoades turned her life around after she discovered Circles just under two years ago. “I was at the lowest I’d ever been,” Kellie says. “One of the other Circle Leaders described their first impression of me as ‘like a beaten dog.’”

After years of addiction, an abusive relationship, homelessness and losing custody of her children, Kellie was living at the Peace House in Park City when one of the residents there asked her for a ride to a Circles’ Thursday night dinner. She agreed and decided to stick around rather than make the trip twice. “I stayed off to the side during that first dinner and class, but then after that, I never missed a week,” Kellie says. “I met people there who’ve been the biggest supporters I’ve ever had. It literally changed my life.” Kellie is now fully employed and housed and, best of all, her children are living with her full time. She also serves on the board of Provo’s Community Action & Food Services, which provides housing, food, education and support to those in crisis in Utah, Wasatch and Summit Counties.

According to Circles USA’s 2023 Impact Report, Kellie’s experience with Circles is not

unique. Of the 951 Leaders who completed the 12-week class and engaged in the weekly follow up meetings for 18 months, 75 percent increased their income, 58 percent experienced an increase in employment, 63 percent furthered their education and 38 percent now own a home. Also, 2023’s Circle Leaders dramatically increased their social networks. At registration, participants struggled to name one or two emergency contacts; at 18 months, they could name more than four people to call on for support. In addition to the lifelong friends Kellie made in her Circle Leaders class, and the strong relationship she forged with her Allies, the Fillmores, (“My kids call them Grandpa Bruce and Grandma Ann,” she says), Kellie credits the profound impact Circles had on her life largely to Jeri. “She is just so passionate and has such a pure heart,” Kellie says. “She would not give up on me.”

For more information about Circles Heber Valley, to volunteer as an Ally or to donate a Thursday night dinner, email Jeri Davis at jerid@casfb.org.

“Outstanding service. Ed’s team comes to meet you at a location of your choice (at your home, office, etc.) The team arrived on time, and in only 2hrs, my BMW looked fresh off the lot. Thanks so much, DetailParkCity! You’ve got my business!” - Jamie R.

“Ed was great. He quickly returned my initial contact (rare in Park City) and quickly had us on his schedule. He spent all day detailing our two cars, which are in like new condition. Couldn’t be happier.” - Andrew N.

Circles Heber ValleyCoach, Jeri Davis, speaks at a Wasatch Community Foundation donor appreciation event in 2024.

END OF AN ERA

After 30 years, the masters of ceremonies for Swiss Days are saying auf wiedersehen.

For the past 3 decades, the cherished Swiss Days Festival in Midway has had the same masters of ceremonies (MCs). Cass Ho, Ken McConnell and Cary Hobb’s voices were as integral to the festivities as the alphorns. But this year, these talented folks are stepping down from their roles. If you’ve been to Swiss Days, you’ve likely been delighted by the array of German and Swiss food vendors and browsed the approximate 175 booths with crafts and wares. Maybe you’ve enjoyed performances by the Swiss Miss or even met the Honored Citizens. Or, you’ve relished live entertainment such as internationally renowned master yodeler Kerry Christensen, the Swiss Choir, Swiss Bells, vocalists, dancers and more.

Cass remembers its humble beginnings. “Mrs. Smith and her third-grade dance class were in the little white gazebo at the opposite end of the Town Square,” she said. “The tiny, round gazebo’s sound system was a boom box. We’d just turn up the volume when the kids started to

dance. I didn’t even have a chair to sit on. Kerry Christensen and the alphorns had to stand in front of the gazebo. It was so quaint.” That was 1995.

Cass is no stranger to the stage. She sings and acts, is a performance coach, and a state judge for Miss America, traveling to various states to judge pageants. She sang with the Silhouettes in the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City.

Eventually, the stage moved to a more visible area. With the Olympics, the staging got a major overhaul. “We went from 120 people sitting on bleachers to 1,000,” she says. As the event grew, she needed help on stage, so she reached out to some friends in the acting community.

Ken McConnell was acting in local theatre with Cass. One day, she asked him to help. “Back then, Swiss Days was primitive,” he says. “We didn’t have the beautiful structures we have now. It was interesting and fun, but once was enough for me.” The next year, she reached out again. “I told her no,” he said. She said, “You have

to, I’ve already printed your name in the program.” That was 28 years ago.

Ken had parts on Touched by an Angel, Promised Land, and TV commercials. He worked with Bart the Bear on a sportsman show in Toronto, Canada and was the lead in Utah’s sesquicentennial play, “Bands of Iron, Rings of Gold.” For the past 17 years, he has volunteered part time with Wasatch County Search and Rescue, was a judge for the 2002 Olympic biathlon event and served as Chairman of the Board for the Heber Valley Railroad for 4 years. He’s also Ken of the Ken ‘n Cary duo.

Cary started playing piano when he was 5. “I was a kid disc jockey in Texas,” he says. “When I was 14, I supposedly had the first rock-and-roll show between Dallas and LA. In June, I had Elvis Presley on my show and paid him $150 for 30 minutes of airtime. Then Buddy Holly came on. It was the first and only time they were together on the same show.”

Cary had a daily radio show on local station KTMP for 13 years. He pioneered the Heber Valley Pickleball club, is active with the Midway Art Association, is a Wasatch Mountain State Park volunteer, and actor in Timpanogos Valley Theatre. He started playing with the Bavarians, a polka band, in 1993. “We were featured entertainers every year at Swiss Days,” says Cary. In 2004, he became an MC in addition to an entertainer.

“Swiss Days is the only large festival I know that is run by 99% volunteers from our entire community,” says Cary. “Everything is family oriented. Kids pick up trash, teenagers make sour kraut, adults cook, serve food, man booths, and more. The only reward is a tee shirt, hat and

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meal ticket plus the fun and satisfaction of being part of a world-class event.”

Preparations begin in January. But the hard work is all worth it. “I loved being the face and voice of Swiss Days,” says Cass. “To represent this community has been an honor for me and I’m proud to have served here. It’s a wonderful event.”

She became the entertainment chairman 8 years ago but has been working alongside Rob Sorenson for the last 3 years. “Rob and I are a really good team,” says Cass. “We book the acts and are in charge of basically everything under the big entertainment tent.”

Although she’ll still be a part of it, she’s passing the mic. “It’s been 30 years,” she says. “We need fresh blood to spice it up.” Ken has mixed emotions about it. “I loved getting to know the entertainers, they are so talented,” he says. “The incredible energy we generated is mind-boggling. It was a lot of hard work, but we enjoyed it. It’s time to pass the baton to a younger generation. It’s bittersweet.”

If you’re sad to see them go, don’t despair. All 3 still MC events in Heber and Midway. This isn’t the last you’ll hear from them.

Swiss Days 2025

August 29–30

75 North 100 West Midway, Utah

8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. (Friday) 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. (Saturday) www.midwayswissdays.org/2025-event

BLIND EYES (ENGLISH SONNET)

BY ISABELLA VENEGAS

Ask if I have lived long enough to see

And found if eyes can speak lies or speak truth, Or found them shine in the dark curiously,

Or seen such of them in the old and youth.

Can eyes change the mood of a living day, Can there in them lie a story to be?

Can they bring tears or wipe them all away,

From this blind darkness will I ever be free?

As a mother’s song, can those bright eyes soothe, As a black star, can dark eyes disperse light? As a cool morning breeze, can eyes renew, As someone who sees, can you give me sight?

I have lived long and seen it to be true, Though I’m in blind darkness, some stories shine through.

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PSYCHOTECHNOLOGY HOW “PERSONALIZED” SHOULD REALITY BE?

In 2015, I wrote for a tech startup that wanted to give online shoppers the ability to negotiate prices. It was the first ever “Consumer-to-Merchant Negotiation Platform,” announced the company in tortured tech-a-lese. It would “Revolutionize the Online Shopping Experience” by allowing people to “create their own deals.”

At first, the negotiations were real. Shoppers could submit the price they wanted to pay for a product, and the retailer could accept, decline, or counter.

In theory, negotiations would spare customers and merchants from comparison shopping, the practice of roaming from site to site until you find the lowest price (which is something Google Shopping now caters to). People would just negotiate with their favorite store and pay the price they would have paid elsewhere.

In reality, retailers that aim to generate millions of sales worth billions of dollars have no time to negotiate. So, my client pivoted.

In a press release, we wrote that the company, previously a “B2C portal where every item was negotiable,” had “evolved into a sales personalization platform that allows online retailers to individualize discounts in real-time based on product facts and consumer behavior.” The release dubbed this startup a forerunner in “psychotechnology,” as in psychological technology.

Allow me to translate. Retailers could now use this psychotechnology to experiment on shoppers. A control group would get no offer. A “best practices group” would get the most logical offer, given the performance of past offers. And an “experimental group” would get something special.

That special something could be a price just for you determined by algorithms. So-called “product facts”—like shelf life, demand, and time on the market—along with “consumer behavior”—like your purchase history or browsing behavior on a website (all tracked and measured)—would determine your price. Or, you could ask the experimental group to negotiate—sort of. The retailer would pre-set a limit for the maximum discount. You, the shopper, would be invited to make an offer, and if it landed within that range, you’d get to buy your product at that price. If you asked for too steep of a discount, however, you’d get a no or an automatic counteroffer. The

illusion of thinking you negotiated would make you feel better about the price you paid.

To retailers—and the investors who poured tens of millions of dollars into this idea and others like it—psychotechnology was brilliant. Their shoppers became the compliant subjects in an unspoken experiment to see how much money could be transferred from their bank accounts to the retailer’s.

To be fair, all businesses, online or not, can and do toy with prices. But my client proposed a new kind of marketplace where everyone gets a different price, and no one knows if their price is different, how so, or why. It is neither a free nor controlled market but a mirror market designed to reflect your psychology for someone else’s benefit.

Personalizing prices was a crucial step towards creating a different reality for each internet user. Just as retailers wanted to offer a special price, just for you, social media companies wanted to deliver special content, just for you. Similar to your purchase history, your posts, shares, and comments on social media provided more than enough data for the algorithms to deliver whatever would keep you clicking and looking at ads. Witnessing that progression led me to question the conventional story about polarization on the web. It’s not that echo chambers merely pulled us further right or further left. Rather, echo chambers polarize

us into more extreme versions of ourselves. Arguably, the early “dumb” web was neutral. It allowed users to compare offerings in a marketplace of ideas, goods, and services without nudging them one way or another.

The personalized web considered all that exploration and independent thinking to be inefficient and therefore detrimental to selling things. It wanted us to maintain a rigid identity and consistent set of preferences for the sake of predictability and profitability.

This algorithmically mediated web had a simple message: “You like that? Have more of it. You like that too? Have even more. Oh, still like that? Take more.” On and on.

The days of negotiating for a different price or different reality ended. Attempt to be anonymous—attempt to exempt oneself from the personalized recommendations and offers—and the web will punish you with inconvenience. For instance, try using YouTube logged out, free of recommendations, and notice how hard YouTube will work to make you log back in (for its sake, not yours).

Personally, I don’t want a special price or reality just for me. I am plenty myself already and need no reinforcement. Switch off the psychotechnology and let us wander an internet that doesn't try to cater to our every preference, weakness, and illusion. Let us negotiate the complexity.

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NUCLEAR FUEL RECYCLING

IF UTAH PLANS TO BE A NUCLEAR HUB, IT’LL NEED A LOT OF FUEL. WHY MINE IT WHEN THE U.S. HAS 90,000 TONS OF SPENT FUEL WITH 90% OF ITS ENERGY REMAINING?

Nuclear power plants in the United States have generated over 90 million metric tons of “spent” nuclear fuel that is far from spent. It contains an estimated 90% of the energy it had before going into a reactor. Nevertheless, it sits in concrete storage vaults at 94 nuclear reactors scattered across 28 states, where it could remain radioactive for millions of years.

Governor Spencer Cox’s plan to transform Utah into a hub of nuclear energy means that our state will host spent fuel as well—unless we could recycle it.

That is what University of Utah’s Michael Simpson, PhD, Professor of Metallurgical Engineering, has been working on for nearly 30 years. Simpson began his career at Idaho National Laboratory (formerly Argonne National Laboratory) in Idaho Falls. He worked on pyrochemical processing, a way to separate uranium and other actinides—radioactive elements on that bottom row of the periodic table—from spent fuel. It’s a way to recover and reuse the leftover energy.

After 17 years at Idaho National Laboratory, Simpson joined the U of U in 2013 and continued to research fuel recycling (also known as “reprocessing”). His research has implications not just for addressing that 90,000 tons of spent fuel, but for building a nuclear hub in Utah.

Nuclear fuel recycling is nothing new. France, which derives about 70% of its electricity from nuclear energy, reprocesses nuclear fuel over and over until there’s no energy left to extract. The French use a technique called PUREX—plutonium–uranium redox extraction— which involves dissolving spent fuel in acids to separate uranium and plutonium.

In 1977, President Jimmy Carter banned nuclear fuel reprocessing techniques like PUREX over concerns about proliferation. If someone managed to steal the separated plutonium—or, if a country adopted PUREX under the guise of a recycling program—they’d be well on their way to making a nuclear weapon.

Here’s where nuclear fuel recycling gets interesting—and difficult. Pyroprocessing is proven. Idaho National Laboratory pyroprocesses spent fuel used in its Experimental Breeder Reactor-II (EBR-II), which was shut down in 1994. This creates a fuel called high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU, usually pronounced “hey-loo”).

Conventional nuclear plants throughout the U.S. use uranium enriched 4% to 5%. HALEU is enriched up to 19.9%. For perspective, weapons-grade uranium is enriched to about 90%.

HALEU is in high demand among the startups developing small

modular reactors (SMRs). These are the new breed of allegedly safer, smaller, mass-produced nuclear reactors that have raised billions of dollars from venture capital firms and big tech companies, like Amazon and Microsoft, that want them to power AI datacenters.

Unfortunately for these SMR startups, pyroprocessing at Idaho National Laboratory is one of the only domestic sources of HALEU, most of which used to be imported from Russia. That facility has produced about 5 metric tons of HALEU total. Hypothetically, it could produce 5 tons per year, but it has never achieved that rate.

That’s why in 2002, Simpson secured a $1.5 million Department of Energy grant to develop pyroprocessing for spent conventional fuel—the 90,000 metric tons sitting in concrete vaults, growing by 2,000 tons per year. Pyroprocessing conventional fuel does not make HALEU. Rather, it produces uranium and transuranic actinides (U/ TRU)—a mishmash of elements right of uranium on the bottom row of the periodic table. The only type of reactors that can use these actinides are called fast reactors, which Simpson compares to garbage incinerators. The U.S. doesn’t have any fast reactors left—EBR-II at Idaho National Laboratory was the last one.

Thus, the issue, says Simpon, is “How do you create an industry that's not there yet?” A handful of startups are developing fast reactor SMRs that could use recycled fuel, but none have built prototype reactors let alone commercial-scale plants as of this writing.

“There's not a customer quite yet,” Simpson explains. In all likelihood, SMR companies would have to pre-purchase recycled fuel before a recycling facility could get financing to build. But if no startup has a secure source of fuel, they’re unlikely to get financing for a commercial plant.

The Department of the Interior is keen to open new uranium mines (including one recently approved in San Juan County, Utah). But why not use the fuel we have already mined? Rather than burn and store spent fuel here in Utah, where it will become a future generation’s problem, we could maximize the value of uranium and minimize the waste.

Perhaps that option is coming soon. Simpson is in talks with potential industrial partners to move pyroprocessing towards commercialization.

Utah and federal tax dollars have funded years of pyroprocessing research at the U of U. If Utah lawmakers are serious about building a nuclear hub, a few test reactors won’t cut it. Forming a closed loop of uranium mines, commercial fast reactors, and fuel recycling facilities sounds more promising.

DOES IT MATTER WHO (OR WHAT) THINKS? THOUGHTS FROM A WRITER WHO MADE 300+ WEB PAGES USING CLAUDE

In June, scientists with MIT Media Lab published a study: “Your Brain on ChatGPT: Accumulation of Cognitive Debt when Using an AI Assistant for Essay Writing Task.” They split 54 participants into three groups, each tasked with writing SAT-style essays on broad topics like loyalty, happiness, and philanthropy. One group could use ChatGPT, one could use search engines, and one could use only their brains.

The scientists measured participants’ brain activity and evaluated their essays. The ChatGPT group demonstrated a lack of brain engagement, poor retention of what they wrote, a lack of critical thinking, and poor marks from reviewers. The brain-only group outperformed the search engine group which

outperformed the AI group.

There are plenty of issues with this study. The cognitive load of a task doesn’t necessarily correspond to its value. The researchers chose a task that AI can complete in full based on one prompt. The ChatGPT users completed the task quicker than their peers—that saved time and energy is worth something.

All that said, if the purpose of writing essays in school is to cultivate critical thinking—and there may be better ways to do that—then ChatGPT undermined the point.

In what I believe is related news, New York Times technology reporter Kevin Roose noted in late May that unemployment for recent college graduates had reached an

“unusually high 5.8%.” Graduates in finance and computer science—fields in which AI is highly capable—were hit hardest.

Roose believes this is just the “tip of the iceberg.” Firms are automating entry-level tasks, and “A.I. companies are racing to build ‘virtual workers’ that can replace junior employees at a fraction of the cost,” he writes.

Potentially, student use of AI degrades the value of a college education that, either way, is increasingly worse at securing employment for graduates—because they can’t compete with AI.

The mechanics of how AI replaces an entry-level job can be hard to grasp if you haven’t witnessed it or done it. So, let me share a real example.

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Early in June, a client sent a spreadsheet outlining all pages that needed to be completed for a new website. I’d already done the meaty stuff: home, about, why us, team bios, and so forth. However, there were another 300 pages that neither I nor my client had known about initially. The firm insisted that the site launch in three weeks from that date (for no particular reason). The 300 bonus pages were for local SEO. Say you have a business in Heber City that wants to sell services in St. George that don’t require a physical presence—something like accounting or HR consulting. When St. Georgians search “accounting help” on Google, the algorithm assumes they want a local firm. No St. Georgian will find your Heber City business unless you convince Google your Heber City business is also local to St. George.

How do you convince Google? You create “local” pages that mention a local number, local address, local landmarks and streets, and local clients.

Doing that for 30 cities and for five to ten kinds of services per city—and making each page read differently, because Google’s algorithm cares about originality—is horrendously time-consuming. No human writer I know enjoys writing the same page

five to ten different ways, all to convince an algorithm that each page is local.

Ten years ago, entry-level writers or interns would have done this task. Neither the client nor I had any available, so I gave them two choices: Outsource to an army of low-cost SEO writers in South Asia, or use AI, which is what they chose.

I trained Anthropic’s Claude on the web pages I had written so far and then I outlined what each local page would have to contain. I also gave Claude an example of a local page I wrote from scratch. Claude, replicating the brand voice and outline with ease, made more local pages. What it learned in 20 minutes an entry-level writer would have taken weeks to match.

Once I realized that Claude couldn’t do all 300+ pages in one chat—it would hit a token limit—I asked Claude how to retrain itself for this task. Claude made a guide to writing these local pages and the prompt I should use to retrain it. Correct: I trained Claude to train me in how to retrain Claude. Creating new web pages became a matter of naming a city and service and hitting enter.

For the first time, I used a machine to make 300+ web pages for another machine: Google’s search algorithm. If my brain had been hooked up to an EEG, there wouldn’t

have been much going on. It was mindnumbing.

Maybe that is the future for the website copywriter: Less thinking, more clicking. And if the wider job market wants less thinking, more clicking too, what is the purpose of writing those SAT essays?

Hell if I know. Ask Claude.

WASATCH BACK’S DOGS’ FAVORITE PLACE TO PLAY

Providing the very best in kennel-free dog services on 50 acres, minutes from downtown Park City!

SLEEP OVERS

GROOMING & TRAINING (BY APPOINTMENT)

CONCIERGE SERVICES

HIKES

DAILY PICK UP & DELIVERY

BY SANDY GELDHOF • PHOTOS BYLEXIE LARSON

DANCING WITH WOLVES

Heber local Sausha Seus raises wolves for the silver screen and the soul

Heber native Sausha Seus was, quite literally, raised by wolves. The daughter of worldrenowned animal trainers and conservationists Doug and Lynne Seus—best known for raising and training Bart the Bear, the famous Hollywood grizzly—Sausha grew up surrounded by wildlife on her parents’ expansive property in the Heber Valley. Among the many animals, it was the wolves, living in family-style packs, that became a defining part of her childhood. “From the time I was six months old my parents had wolves, so to me they were just a natural part of being in a family,” she said.

In her twenties Sausha attended Southern Utah University, receiving a degree in sociology and political science, finally returning home to take care of the many wildlife while her parents embarked on one of their many Hollywood film commitments featuring Bart the Bear, in this case, in the blockbuster Legends of the Fall. The elder Seuses also had twelve wolves and an assortment of other wild animals in their care, including cougars, foxes, badgers and raccoons. Sausha answered their call, saying “I’ll gladly stay home and take care of my animal family.”

While she continued her family legacy of raising wildlife and training animals for television and film, as well as running a dog training, boarding and grooming business, Sausha also was busy raising her three children. But wildlife was strong in her blood and in 2020 she formed her business, Wolves of Wasatch, to continue her parents’ tradition of training and advocacy. With a host of offerings to the public and with loftier goals in the works, Wolves currently offers opportunities to connect with nature and learn more about a species so often misunderstood. From a two-hour excursion hiking her 47 acres with her two wolves––known as Apollo, and the newest member of the pack, a four-month-old

cub named Wizard––to corporate events tailored to businesses who learn to incorporate wolf mentality into their team structure and bonding, Sausha is a huge believer in wolves’ natural ability to heal and be teachers. “Wolves by their nature are natural healers and with guidance and a desire to go deeper, people can experience true magic,” she said. “More than half the people who leave are crying happy tears, and that is so fulfilling for me.”

While many people opt for just the hike and learning more about wolves, Sausha, who has also been ordained as a chaplain, offers an expanded experience for people to face past trauma and experience deeper healing. “Healing is my heart center, and I can use my skills as a chaplain, and my talent with wild animals, to connect with people. Once that connection space is open, people can start healing from the inside.” Sausha explained that using wolves as a modality to that end goal is a truly unique journey. “I really honestly just let the wolves operate and mediate, and every experience is different,” she said. “There’s really no other word for it than pure magic. There’s a sort of divine quality to this type of healing and wolves are already connected to a

© Best Version Media

higher source, so it just transpires in such a beautiful way.”

Her two-hour tour can be tailored for specific groups or specific goals, whether for healing, awareness, or education. A recent tour featured lessons on ecosystems and wildlife conservation tailored for a youth group.

Sausha has also begun partnering with “Drum Utah” to incorporate drum circles into her wolf experiences, which is based on native American therapy and healing modalities, and which is an initiative that is a first step on the way to her larger goal. Springboarding from her parents’ organization, Wasatch Rocky Mountain Wildlife, she would like to realize her dream of creating a retreat center complete with the many Native American wildlife which she knew as family growing up and offering the public a sanctuary to heal among nature. “My ultimate goal is to offer multi-day wolf and wildlife experiences and to eventually create a retreat center for people to come back to themselves into nature and heal,” she said. “It’s about coming full circle to what my parents started. I have to follow my passion, and that’s my goal.”

On her journey to that goal, Sausha is formatting more extensive experiences, including days-long retreats on her Daniels’ property which incorporates healing body and soul work, sound baths, yoga, and polar plunges, crater soaks, breath work, and of course, wolves. “Wolves can and will teach us to look inside ourselves, to be fully present and to establish good boundaries,” she said. “They teach us once again to connect back to our primal selves and open up our hearts to heal.”

For more information visit www.wolvesofwasatch.com and Wolves of Wasatch on Facebook.

Website: www.wolvesofwasatch.com

FB: Wolves of Wasatch

Discover the difference with our owner-operated pet care services, led by a certified Canine Dietitian dedicated to your pet’s health and happiness. Our team includes two gentle, highly skilled groomers with a combined 25 years of experience, ensuring your furry friend receives the best care. We’re here to support you in finding local walk/hike groups, sitters, trainers, daycare, and boarding options—making pet care easier and more convenient. It’s our pleasure and commitment to help you and your pets live your happiest, healthiest, and worry-free lives.

Explore our offerings:

• Quality, healthy, and sustainably sourced foods, treats, and supplements

• Safe and stimulating toys

• Grooming aids

• Seasonal outdoor gear

• Custom pet and people gift baskets

Meet Biggs!

Who has four paws, floppy ears, and the most handsome golden eyes? This giant lover is Biggs, and he’s looking for his forever home. Mr. Biggs is a 4-year-old Doberman and practically still a puppy at that age!

His personality was amazing from the very moment I got to pet his big ol’ head! In true “big dog” form, he loved to lean on me while getting scratched and loved all over. Biggs was surrendered by his owner. He was loved dearly, but they were unable to give him all the attention and exercise needed.

Dobermans require physical exercise as well as mental stimulation. There are many ways to mentally enrich your dog’s routine; sniffle mats, training sessions, and indoor obstacle courses to name a few. Working with your dog’s mind is a wonderful way to tire them out.

I have no doubt Biggs will find his forever home. Who could say ‘no’ to those big eyes?

To learn more, please reach out to Laura with The SugarFace Foundation at (716) 969-7591.

If you or someone you know is interested in fostering, Laura is the person to speak with!

Fosters make this all possible, thank you!

Elevating Legacy and Versatility

THE WOMAN BEHIND 8D RANCH © Best Version Media

I admit, I have always been intrigued by cowgirls. Those fascinating women who can wrangle and rope, barrel and jump, have always caught my attention. Then I met Kris Getzie from 8D Ranch, and now the intrigue of horse breeding is at the forefront.

Kris is rewriting the blueprint for modern horse breeding. At the helm of 8D Ranch in Park City, she is passionate about raising the bar for "soundness, talent, and versatility" in equine breeding. Her goal is to always honor the royalty of legendary bloodlines while crafting safe, family-friendly horses that excel in performance and companionship.

“The business is all about empowering women where we can, and that involves taking on friends as interns and all different types of working levels," Kris shared. "It gets women into the industry, which is predominantly male, especially when you get into the competition side. For me, growing up with a single mom, I had women in my life who took me on the horse journey, so it is important to me to give back."

LEGENDARY BLOODLINES MEET MODERN EXCELLENCE

The ranch prides itself on a foundation of broodmares descended from equine royalty, with names like Gray’s Starlight, Playgun, and Smart Little Lena appearing across pedigrees. These mares are thoughtfully crossed with elite stallions to produce future champions in cow horse disciplines like reining, cutting, and ranch versatility.

Alongside these high-caliber performance prospects, Kris focuses on breeding and training family-friendly horses. Their draft

crosses and AQHA (American Quarter Horse Association) horses undergo rigorous, two-year training programs to ensure that every horse sold is “safe, sane, and sound.”

“You can throw your kids on them bareback, take them up into the mountains packing, a truly all-around versatile horse," Kris emphasizes. “And they are fun."

PASSION BACKED BY EXPERTISE

Starting out at a young age, Kris grew up around horses. Her first job was at a professional Reining horse stable.

"From a young age, I was exposed to really nice horses, I got to travel around the country, I was that horse-crazed girl ever since I can remember," Kris shared. "I loved getting out into the mountains as well and trail riding. I took a break from horses for a bit, but when I moved back to Utah fourteen years ago, I got back into horses."

When Kris decided to get back into horses, her goal was to enjoy the experience leisurely; riding trails and connecting with the outdoors. However, she quickly discovered a frustrating challenge; finding horses that truly matched what sellers were advertising.

"I would not put my children on these horses. I actually went through half a dozen horses trying to find the right mix. I realized I could do it better," Kris explained. "We breed the performance horses, but there is a huge percentage that make it to that level; it is extremely hard. My goal is to have my horses have the most success, which also matches what they want to do. They have to have the heart and the drive to be competitive."

For the horses that don't make it to the top levels of competition, Kris ensures they are given a new purpose through her Utah-based training team. These horses are thoughtfully repurposed as reliable family horses, where their temperament truly shines. Many of these horses also find success in smaller competitive events, showcasing their adaptability and spirit. The training process helps them thrive in environments that suit their abilities, whether it’s providing joy to a family or performing in local arenas.

SAFE, SANE, AND REMARKABLE

Whether you’re in search of your next performance prospect or a reliable family horse, 8D Ranch offers an unparalleled selection. Horses leaving their program aren’t just beautiful to look at; they’re sound in mind and body, as well as impeccably trained for real-world challenges.

"I am a believer that the dam side is more important in breeding than the stallion that you choose," Kris explained. "I love the old school, foundation bloodlines. They are just built differently."

At 8D Ranch, Kris has proven the remarkable impact women can have in this industry, combining dedication and vision to produce exceptional horses. Her success not only highlights the strength of women in equine breeding but also inspires the next generation to carry on this cherished tradition with pride and purpose.

Website: 8dranch.com

Instagram: @8D.ranch • Facebook: @ 8Dranch

August 14-16, 2025

The Park City Song Summit is a vibrant and evolving event that highlights music and the well-being of artists and attendees.

Since its inception, the Song Summit has grown into a platform for cultural and wellness exchange, featuring diverse activities. Attendees are treated to intimate sessions that address mental health, enhancing the overall experience with thoughtful wellness activities like sound baths, yoga, and massages.

The Song Summit celebrates a wide array of musical talents, providing a unique opportunity to see artists such as Larkin Poe and Mavis Staples perform in intimate settings. It offers diverse musical experiences, ranging from gospel harmonies to high-energy performances. Programs like Summit Rising demonstrate a commitment to nurturing emerging artists, with structured mentorship and performance opportunities that emphasize healthy creative practices.

Returning to downtown Park City, the summit will infuse City Park and the local library with events, allowing for rich interactions in these iconic venues. With the Main Stage and the Foundation Stage offering a mix of established and emerging talents, the event promises an immersive, educational, and entertaining experience.

Whether reconnecting with favorite artists or discovering new ones, the Park City Song Summit provides a dynamic environment to enjoy music and support young talent while promoting health and wellness.

Join us and be part of this special, one-of-a-kind event in our beautiful mountain town. Experience the magic of music, creativity, and community right here at home!