Neighbors of Park City September 2025

Paws onPatrol

SUMMIT COUNTY TAPS INTO MAN’S BEST FRIEND IN ITS MISSION ON PUBLIC SAFETY

COVER PHOTO BY LEXIE LARSON -

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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

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

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

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

WINDOW COVERING EXPERT

Kenny Beland Heber Valley Blinds

750 Kearns Blvd., Ste. 200, Park City, 84060 hebervalleyblinds.com | 435-503-0163 kenny@hebervalleyblinds.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 Elberts Stoke Coach stokecoach.com rachel@stokecoach.com

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Meet theTeam!

Lexie Larson

Hello! Nice to meet ya! Being born and raised in Charleston granted me such an amazing childhood, getting to explore, grow, and get into heaps of trouble when the times called for it. Technically Charleston is Heber, to us its different, same zip code, different flow of life. Climbing bales of hay that were precariously stacked, jumping in cow pastures we had no business being in. How lucky to be surrounded by beauty everywhere you turn, that is Charleston!

L. COOK

Being raised by my Mother and Grandma was a hoot, thank goodness the teenage years pass, like a kidney stone. When you visit the little white house with the green roof, the weeping willow in the front yard will greet you, the house is always warm, with love full to the brim. That will forever be home.

Since the beginning of time, animals have greatly inspired me. Most of all dogs. Through sculpting, photography, and just plain ol'

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

creating, dogs have always been poetry. Getting to take photos of these little creatures that we hold so near and dear, that's my jam. May my camera lens be smudged with nose marks for the rest of my days.

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

MELISSA FIELDS

OWEN CRANDALL

DEB DEKOFF

DANA KLEIN

KRISTEN PIERCE

LEXIE LARSON SARAH SEVERSON

WEEKDAY EATS & LOCAL TREATS

TRANSFUSION The

The Transfusion is a classic drink that is experiencing a fresh wave of popularity. Known as a golfer’s drink, this slightly tart but oh-so-refreshing cocktail combines vodka, ginger ale, grape juice, and fresh lime juice. The finished product leaves you with a wonderful thirst quenching drink to get you through the course.

The Transfusion was originally created to drink while teeing-off on the golf course (possibly to fight off a hangover from the festivities the night before). The drink’s refreshing and revitalizing qualities will not only get you started, but easily get you all the way to the “19th hole.”

You don’t have to be a golfer to enjoy a Transfusion. You can make this simple cocktail at home. The recipe is easy and you end up with an invigorating drink you won’t soon forget.

Prep time: Less than 5 minutes

and weddings

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 ½ oz vodka

• 1 oz concord grape juice

• ½ oz fresh lime juice

• Top off with ginger ale or ginger beer for a slightly spicier drink

• Lime wedge and/or frozen grapes for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

Add vodka, grape juice, and lime juice to a high ball glass filled with ice. Fill the rest of the glass with the ginger ale. Garnish with a lime wedge and/or a few frozen grapes. Sip, swing (or don’t), and smile!

Did you try a Transfusion?

If so, hit me up on Instagram @elevateeventbartending

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STAYCATION BLISS AT THE GRAND HYATT DEER VALLEY

The Grand Hyatt Deer Valley is redefining what it means to "get away" without going far. This newly opened luxury hotel offers the perfect balance of sophistication and family-friendly amenities, making it an ideal staycation destination for locals.

EXCLUSIVE LOCAL DISCOUNTS

Utah residents can elevate their R&R with special discounts tailored for locals. These exclusive offers allow guests to enjoy the hotel’s world-class amenities at a fraction of the price, making it a more accessible indulgence. Whether Utah residents are planning a romantic weekend retreat or a fun-filled family escape, they can take advantage of 20% off room rates and 50% off the resort fee.

"For locals seeking a refined retreat without leaving the Wasatch Back, Grand Hyatt Deer Valley offers the perfect blend of modern sophistication and outdoor adventure," said Jarrod Finley, area director of Sales and Marketing for Grand Hyatt Deer Valley.

"This summer, locals, guests, and families can enjoy vibrant poolside programming

featuring live music, craft cocktails curated by Water Witch, a James Beard Finalist for ‘Outstanding Bar,’ and award-winning culinary offerings by Chef Marc Marrone, a top-10 ranked pizza chef in the world. We're also excited to offer day passes for pool and programming access.”

CULINARY ADVENTURES

From upscale dining to casual bites, the hotel features multiple on-site restaurants designed to satisfy every palate. Guests can enjoy craft cocktails created by the local watering hole, Water Witch, as well as seasonal food items poolside at the Sunspell pool. Take in the views and enjoy great American fare at Remington Hall, where the Wagyu Pigs in a Blanket area is a must, and the Hot/Frozen Chocolate experience is fun for all ages.

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

chefakeenoclarke@gmail.com

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Looking for more of a hang and graze opportunity? Visit the lounge where the drinks are flowing and the bites are splendid. Try the onion dip or Colossal shrimp cocktail; they are shareable and make for great conversation starters.

Whether you’re savoring a gourmet breakfast before a day of exploration or indulging in tapas-style delicacies by the fire, every bite is a thoughtful curation of chef Viktor Merenyi.

"We offer a lot of shareable items, many of them are common household foods, but not in their typical form," said chef Viktor. "The restaurant, Remington Hall, highlights both the craft and the art of refined American cuisine."

FUN FOR THE KIDS, FREEDOM FOR ADULTS

Families will particularly appreciate the dedicated kids zones. For older kids and teenagers, the Nexus Lounge & Arcade is the ultimate hangout spot. Equipped with PS5 and Xbox gaming systems, air hockey, ping-pong tables, and several vintage arcade games, it provides hours of entertainment. This unsupervised area lets older children enjoy some independence while immersing themselves in fun and friendly competition.

The supervised Camp Hyatt Kids Club, designed for kids 3-12, offers a room of fun and activities for younger guests, giving parents the opportunity to enjoy some well-deserved downtime. Relax with a spa treatment, take a quiet dip in the pool, or enjoy the tranquility of the hotel knowing the kids are safe and having a blast.

PET-FRIENDLY

Grand Hyatt Deer Valley understands that pets are an important part of the family, which is why they welcome your furry companions. Complimentary branded bowls and cozy beds are provided for your furry friends, and select items are also available for purchase. There is an on-site, dedicated dog run that provides a convenient space for your pet to stretch and play and even a special dog menu.

Park City Shines Within the Wine Spectator Restaurant Awards 2025

Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or just beginning to explore the world of fine dining, there's nothing quite like discovering a restaurant that pairs exceptional cuisine with an outstanding wine list. The 2025 Wine Spectator Restaurant Awards highlight the world's finest establishments where food and wine come together in perfect harmony.

This year, an incredible 3,811 restaurants from all 50 U.S. states and over 80 countries earned the honor, including 22 standout establishments in Utah alone, with 11 located in the Park City/Wanship area.

Executive Chef Matthew Fradera of The St. Regis Deer Valley and his culinary brigade share excitement at being the only Utah resort with two prestigious Wine Spectator Awards, because, “...it highlights the unwavering commitment to excellence in our beverage program and also because it fuels our culinary team’s passion in curating the guest experience. This synergy between our chefs and sommeliers allows us to explore innovative flavors and enhance a guest’s dining experience in extraordinary ways. Diners can indulge with confidence, knowing that every dish can be expertly paired with a wine to create a harmonious culinary experience.”

The awards, launched in 1981, are the only program in the world dedicated solely to restaurant wine programs. They come in three prestigious tiers: the Award of Excellence, the Best of Award of Excellence, and the Grand Award. This year saw 2,010 Awards of Excellence, 1,704 Best of Awards, and 97 Grand Award winners.

Wine Spectator, which reaches 3 million readers globally, leads the way in showcasing the perfect marriage of wine and dining.

“We have been given the Best Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator for many years running, but it never fails to give me a great sense of achievement for being a part of the wine program at Stein Eriksen Lodge,” said Jim Dahlgren, Sommelier, Stein Eriksen Lodge.

▶ Courchevel Bistro

▶ Glitretind Restaurant at Stein Eriksen Lodge

▶ RIME Seafood and Steak at St. Regis Deer Valley

▶ Tupelo

▶ 350 Main Brasserie

▶ Cast & Cut at Deer Valley

▶ Cena Ristorante at The Chateaux Deer Valley

▶ Edge Steakhouse at Canyons Resort

▶ Fireside Dining at Deer Valley Resort

▶ La Stellina at Deer Valley Resort

▶ Yuta at The Lodge at Blue Sky, an Auberge Resorts Collection

Cheers to the celebrations and congrats to all the winners!

Website: www.winespectator.com

Instagram: @stregisdv @chef_matt_fradera_513

These local award-winning restaurants have been recognized for their exceptional wine programs and dining experiences:

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PARK CITY WINE CLUB TURNS

Park City Wine Club (PCWC), a fun, innovative, members-club was established in 2012 and holds regular events to enjoy, explore, and educate members on wine, food and wine, and wine history with proceeds from specific events often benefitting local non-profits. Now in its 13th year, going on 14th, PCWC offers members exclusive wine tour experiences to various wine regions in both the US and internationally, and the online Retail Wine Accessory page offers members discounted pricing. From novice to enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in the world of wine!

PARK CITY WINE CLUB

FAQS

WHY DO YOU NEED TO BE A MEMBER?

This is Utah, our state liquor laws are just a bit different. In order to have educational tastings and events on an ongoing basis, I had to develop a social members organization or club. Events are only sent out to members via email. Members may have friends that are not members (yet) sign up to attend an event. In short the event is not advertised to the public.

DOES PC WINE CLUB SELL WINE?

No, PCWC offers wine for tasting and wine events purchased from a Utah State Liquor Store or approved outlets. People attending PCWC events can purchase the same wine in the Utah State stores.

YOU’RE A SOMMELIER, BUT WHAT IS CSW, CWE & AWE? WHAT DO THEY MEAN?

Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) is a rigorous exam which tests the professionals’ wine knowledge and mastery of key elements within the worlds of viticulture and wine production. The prep time and study for this exam is about one year. CSW is a prerequisite for CWE. This certification is widely recognized by the international wine and spirits industry.

Certified Wine Educator (CWE) is a unique certification that not only tests a professional’s wine knowledge (based on viniculture, fermentation, geography, chemistry, history, and world grape

varietals) but also validates his or her tasting acumen and teaching ability. The exams are extensive and candidates must pass all five exams and demonstrate the ability to successfully communicate a class lesson to a group. This course takes approximately a year and half or more of study, and all five exams and the teaching demonstration must be completed before CWE designation is awarded. This certification is widely recognized and highly regarded by the International Wine & Spirits Industry. As of now there are only 443 CWE’s worldwide.

American Wine Expert (AWE) is a specialized course of study focusing on the history of wine in the United States, including the impact of prohibition. The course covers the grape varieties specific to each state including native species, hybrids, those imported, the viticulture and production in each state, and laws in each state.

I can now add Certified Hospitality Beverage Specialist (HBS) to my credentials as I achieved that accreditation through the Society of Wine Educators in the early summer of 2025.

DO YOU OFFER PRIVATE TASTINGS, WINE PARTIES, AND CORPORATE EVENTS OUTSIDE OF WINE CLUB EVENTS? BOTH LIVE AND VIRTUAL?

Yes. You can contact me, Pam, to request wine concierge service for incoming travelers, private events, corporate events, wine parties, team building, virtual tastings, and more. In addition, I consult on wine cellar organization and cellar management. All of this is done through a separate entity and not via PCWC.

Contact Pamela at travelingvine.edu@gmail.com to discuss and coordinate private functions.

Pamela Wood, CSW, CWE, AWE, HBS

Certified Sommelier

ParkCityWineClub.com, Director of Education, Culinary Wine Institute

A desire to travel, explore different cultures, and delve into world history is what led Pamela Wood to pursue her passion of all things wine. Pamela is one of only 453 Certified Wine Educators in the world. Based in Park City, Utah, Pamela is currently a professor of wine with Fox School of Wine, founder and owner of Park City Wine Club, CEO of Culinary Wine Institute, and the state educator for the employees of Utah Department of Alcohol and Beverage Control. Pamela also leads wine tour experiences for small intimate groups to amazing wine regions around the world, and continues to work on her private consulting and cellar management business. If it has to do with wine, Pamela is probably a part of it. “Wine a little, it’s good for you!”

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CCPC 25th Anniversary Celebration at Hike for Hunger

@Utah Olympic Park (Nordic Flats) 3419

Olympic Park Way, Park City

DATES TO REMEMBER:

SEPT 1 LABOR DAY

SEPT 11 PATRIOT DAY

SEPT 22 AUTUMN EQUINOX

SEPT 23-24 ROSH HASHANAH

SEPT 28 NATIONAL GOOD NEIGHBOR DAY

OCT 2 YOM KIPPUR

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

Live music, great food, and UOP activities:

• Extreme Tubing

• Alpine Slide

• Extreme Zip Line

• Discovery Ropes Course

• Action Tower

• Easy Hike

We are celebrating 25 years of transforming lives in Summit and Wasatch counties. This is an outdoor event that raises awareness of hunger and food insecurity in Summit and Wasatch Counties. All are welcome.

Time: 2-6pm • Cost: $15 for 1 person, $25 for 2 people, $50 for family up to 5, $100 for family up to 5 and sponsors another family of 5 entry. Website: ccofpc.org/events

Monster Drawing Rally

@Kimball Art Center 1251 Kearns Blvd, Park City

This live art-making fundraiser features local artists, benefiting the Arts Council of Park City & Summit County and Kimball Art Center. Held outdoors at Kimball Art Center, the

event features live music, food, a cash bar, and live art-making sessions where artists create pieces in 50 minutes. Watch the creative process, build relationships with local artists, and purchase finished artwork on the spot. Graphite, ink, charcoal, painting, digital art, and collage art will be created.

If more than one person is interested in a piece, a random card draw will decide the buyer.

Time: 3-6pm

Cost: $25 adults, $10 kids, 5 and under free Website: www.kimballartcenter.org

Park City Library Writing Group

@Park City Library 1255 Park Ave, Park City

13

Writers looking for a community can join the Park City Library writing group. The writing group meets to share new writing, give or receive advice, or to try new writing techniques. If you want to bring your work, bring printed copies for other members to read. Any teen and adult writer of any level is invited to participate. This space is meant to encourage aspiring writers and assist more experienced writers.

Time: 3-4pm

Cost: Free Website: parkcitylibrary.org

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Serve Park City’s 9/11 National Day of Service & Remembrance

@City Park’s South Pavillion

We invite you to Serve Park City, hosted by Park City Humanitarians. Join hundreds of others in our community's Day of Service in remembrance of 9/11/01. In our 2nd year, we plan to have 1000 volunteers participate in over 30 volunteer projects all over Park City. All are welcome and invited to serve. All volunteers need to register on JustServe.org/ServeParkCity and signup for projects online to ensure we don't overcrowd any one project.

Time: 8am free breakfast and moment of remembrance, 9:30am-noon service projects • Cost: Free for all volunteers who register Website: JustServe.org/ServeParkCity

FREE Learn to Lift Class

@Park City Fit 4108 Forestdale Dr, Park City (Look for the big red building with the friendly moose on the front!)

Park City Fit is a local business, founded in 2007. For nearly 2 decades and with over 60 years of combined experience, we are passionate about helping people learn how to effectively use sound and proven strength and conditioning practices to improve their quality of life and adventures outside the gym.

Time: 10:30am-12pm • Cost: Free • Register at tinyurl.com/5h3tfsz4

Park Silly Sunday Market

@Main Street, Park City

Park Silly Sunday Market is back and we couldn’t be more excited to kick off the 2025 season with all of you! Join us on Historic Main Street in Park City for a day full of local flavor, live music, one-of-a-kind 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.

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

Costume Swap

@Park City Library 1255 Park Ave, Park City

Get ready for Halloween and help the environment at the Park City Library's upcoming Costume Swap! It's the perfect opportunity to refresh your costume collection without spending a dime. Bring your gently used kids' and adult costumes that you no longer need. Then, browse our selection and take home a "new-to-you" costume for free!

Time: Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 1pm-5pm • Cost: Free, it’s a swap! Website: ParkCityLibrary.org

Junction Jam Music Series

@Junction Commons 6699 N Landmark Dr, 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. Whether you’re a fan of rock, folk, blues, or indie vibes, there’s something for everyone. The Border Food Truck and Dos Hermanos will be offering 15% off during the events.

September 28: Shannon Runyon

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

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.

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

IT'S THE BUZZ

BY AIMEE L. COOK

Cheers to Good Times: Local Beer & Wine Festivals for the Ultimate Tasting Experience

Get ready for the ultimate brew-lover’s weekend. The Deer Valley Mountain Beer Festival is back for its fourth year, combining crisp mountain air with refreshing local beers. Mark your calendars for Saturday and Sunday September 13-14 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., to join this year’s festival.

This year’s festival features beer tastings from over a dozen Utah breweries including: UTOG Brewing, Moab Brewery, Wasatch Brewing and Squatters Brewing. You’ll enjoy scenic chairlift access throughout the resort via the Silver Lake Express, live music, outdoor dining, and family friendly activities. All of these experiences and more will keep the whole family entertained. Visit deervalley.com for more details and to purchase your tickets.

Instagram: @deervalleyresort

The sixth annual Park City Wine Festival is happening October 2-4. Get ready for an unforgettable weekend of fine wines, incredible flavors, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your wine adventure, this event is your ticket to exceptional experiences. Tickets are on sale now. Here is a look at what is in store for this fall event:

Grand Tasting Sessions - Indulge in wines from over 100 renowned wineries alongside panoramic mountain views, live music, and gourmet bites.

Best of Fest at Pendry Park City - Sip 90+ point-rated wines in the exquisite Pendry Park City

New for 2025:

First Taste Friday- Be among the first to enjoy the Grand Tasting with early admission and exclusive access to reserve bottles.

DAOU Winery’s Patrimony Activation at the Umbrella Bar, showcasing some of the most acclaimed wines in the U.S.

Visit ParkCityWineFestival.com for tickets.

Instagram: @parkcitywinefestival

UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE PARK CITY LIBRARY

September 6 at 1:00 PM –Sabores Hispanos: Empanada Edition

Celebrate Latin American culture with empanadas, live dance, crafts, storytelling, and a special storytime with author Yamile Saied Mendez.

September 9 at 5:30 PM –Living Paintings: A Night of Music & Moving Art

An immersive evening of live piano and electronic music with animated paintings by Edward & Nina Wald. Includes a brief Q&A with the artists.

September 10 at 10:00 AM –Charlas en la Cocina | Chats in the Kitchen

A Latinx support group featuring traditional cooking, crafts, and conversations around mental health.

Un grupo de apoyo para la comunidad Latinx con cocina tradicional, manualidades y salud mental.

September 15 at 5:00 PM –Local Speaker Series: Yamile Saied Mendez

Author Yamile Saied Mendez shares her journey as an immigrant writer, followed by Q&A and book signing.

La autora Yamile comparte su experiencia como escritora inmigrante, seguida por una firma de libros.

September 16, All Day – Voter Registration Day Register to vote or check your status—and receive a free prize for participating!

September 18 at 5:30 PM –Embracing Aging Series: Understanding Aging Dr. Anne Asman discusses how to understand and embrace aging for yourself or loved ones. Open to all ages and backgrounds.

September 24 at 5:30 PM & 6:30 PM – Sweet Dreams Ahead: Pediatric Sleep for Babies Pediatric sleep consultant Maggie Turner offers strategies to help babies (ages 0–1) build healthy sleep habits. Includes practical tips for parents and caregivers.

September 26–28 during Library hours – Costume Swap Swap gently used kids’ and adult costumes and pick out something new-to-you. A sustainable, fun way to prep for Halloween!

September 27 at 1:00 PM –Piñata Workshop

Make your own piñata with Clara from Chubby Natas. All materials provided.

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THE LOCAL

COMMUNITY NEWS FROM KPCW

Whether you live, work, or play in the Wasatch Back, KPCW is your trusted nonprofit source for daily news in Summit and Wasatch counties. Join us for our semi-annual pledge drive, September 8–11, as local nonprofits share their missions and raise funds for KPCW. To thank you for your support, Wasatch Back businesses have donated thank-you gifts. It’s a win-win—when you give, you get, and together we keep local news strong.

Francis families vow to rebuild businesses after second fire in two decades

By Connor Thomas

The Francis family that owns Frontier Woodworks and the Farmhouse Florist plans to rebuild after a fire destroyed much of their building this summer.

The fire over the Pioneer Day holiday sparked while Dusty and Raychel Hatch were on a river trip in Idaho. The cause remains under investigation. Only part of the building was insured. Dusty Hatch says the cost of rebuilding could be as much as $2 million. But donations have poured in from Utahns statewide who want to help.

It’s the second time since 2005 that part of the business was damaged by fire.

Wasatch Back’s new amateur hockey team seeks local host families

By Kristine Weller

The Utah Outliers junior hockey team is moving to Wasatch Back this fall.

The U-20 Tier II team is moving its operations to Black Rock Mountain Resort near Park City, where a new 2,000-seat arena and training facility is under construction.

Games will begin in October.

The United States Premier Hockey League team is comprised of athletes ages 17 to 20 headed for collegiate and professional hockey.

Operations Manager Bill McCloud says the team is looking for host families to give players a temporary home during the season.

Over the past nine seasons, the Outliers played at the Acord Ice Center in West Valley City.

Mālama Ski Club to offer ski lessons to Spanishspeaking kids with adaptive needs

By Jonas Wright

A new ski club is looking to get Spanish-speaking kids with adaptive needs on the slopes.

The Mālama Ski Club is a partnership with Park City’s National Ability Center that will launch when the snow flies later this year. Chuck Steele, a Spanish-speaking instructor at NAC founded the club after working with a 9-year-old with autism last season.

Ten spots are open for Spanish-speaking youth in the free, four-class program at Park City Mountain. Skis, coats, gloves, helmets and instructors will be provided.

Steele said the program is for kids who have cognitive, physical or special learning disabilities. He said they may include visual impairment, autism, dyslexia and more.

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Local News in Summit County

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Donate now at www.KPCW.org.

BY AIMEE L. COOK

COURTESY OF MICHAEL PLOWMAN

BUILDING HOMES, BUILDING HOPE

30 Years of Habitat for Humanity in Summit and Wasatch Counties

For three decades, Habitat for Humanity of Summit and Wasatch County has brought dreams to life: one brick, one beam, and one family at a time. What began as a modest effort to tackle the growing need for affordable housing has evolved into a community movement that has transformed lives and neighborhoods. This year marks Habitat’s 30th anniversary, a milestone that deserves celebration, reflection, and hope for an even brighter future.

“It is pretty amazing to celebrate that many years in building affordable housing in the least affordable county in the state,” said Michael Plowman for Habitat for Humanity. “When we complete these next ten homes in the Silver Creek Village project, that will be 26 homes completed in the last five years. It is wonderful to celebrate such a milestone.”

POWERED BY VOLUNTEERS AND PARTNERSHIPS

Habitat’s legacy wouldn’t be possible without the passionate volunteers, generous donors, and committed local businesses who've teamed up to create real change. Seasoned carpenters lending professional skills, teams from local companies spending their weekends swinging hammers, all making up the thousands of hands lent over the years to turn blueprints into memories.

Habitat for Humanity's annual Overall Ball was held on Friday, June 27, bringing together community members for an unforgettable evening of celebration and support. Again this year, Habitat partnered with the Park City Board of REALTORS® for their Hats Off for Community Housing initiative and the presenting sponsor, Park City Mountain and Vail Resorts EpicPromise, hosted the event at the Grand Summit Hotel in Canyons Village.

The evening kicked off with a lively cocktail reception, followed by a sit-down dinner. Guests enjoyed both a silent and live auction, featuring rounds of golf from Logan Golf Course and Copper Rock Golf Course, adventurous experiences from All Seasons Adventures and High Country Fly Fishers, as well as luxurious spa treatments from Align Spa and Mountain Elite Massage. The event raised $300,000 that will go towards affordable housing and financial literacy initiatives.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

As the organization steps into its fourth decade, there’s no slowing down. The importance of affordable housing has never been clearer. With rising property values and rents making it increasingly difficult for working families to live in Summit and Wasatch County, Habitat offers hope for homeownership. Research shows that stable housing leads to better health outcomes, stronger academic performance in children, and increased financial security—all things that communities need to flourish.

Builds are underway in Summit County's Silver Creek Village, a 'thoughtfully designed masterplanned community that blends affordable, attainable, and market-rate housing with inviting green spaces, including parks, playgrounds, sports fields, and scenic walking trails'.

For those inspired by this incredible legacy, getting involved has never been easier. Volunteers of all skill levels are welcome, whether you’re a handyman or have never picked up a hammer. Donations, both financial and material, play a vital role in funding future builds. Shopping at Habitat’s ReStore in Park City also helps to fund projects while promoting sustainability.

With more families in need and ambitious plans for the future, Habitat for Humanity of Summit and Wasatch County continues its mission to make affordable housing a reality.

For more information on how to contribute, volunteer, or support Habitat’s work, visit HabitatWasatchSummit.org.

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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.

LAYING THE FOUNDATION

When asked what she considers the Arts Council of Park City & Summit County’s signature effort, executive director Jocelyn Scutter paused. “The Summit Arts Market is one of the council’s longest running events,” she mused, explaining how it began at the Cattleman’s Hall in Kamas before moving to The Oakley Red Barn in 2015, where it’s been held on a Saturday in mid-July ever since. There’s also the Monster Drawing Rally, that Jocelyn described as “a really fun art party” the Arts Council throws annually in September with the Kimball Art Center. And then there’s Art on the Trails in late August, and Latino Arts Festival, which now attracts 11,000 attendees over its three-day run at Canyons Village in mid-June. “But I think the program that best showcases the Arts Council’s mission in action is the CREATE PC Local Artists Collective,” she said. Simply put, CREATE PC provides local artists with both sales opportunities and

physical space to produce their work. In 2019, the Arts Council began meeting this need through various pop-up locations around Park City, mostly on Main Street. “But as you know, rents on Main Street are pretty prohibitive,” Jocelyn says. Then in late 2023, the council secured a two-level space at 1500 Kearns Boulevard, just behind Tupelo restaurant. There, an artist market, featuring the work of 32 local artists (open Wednesday through Sunday, noon to 6 p.m.), occupies the first floor, and on the second floor, 12 local artists share a studio space where they can create, collaborate, meet with clients and host open studio nights.

“So many artists had come to us wanting to know how to break into the scene in Park City and wanting a place to create their work away from the isolation of their home studios,” Jocelyn said. “The CREATE PC Arts Collective has become an essential resource where locals and visitors can go to see

An aerialist performs as part of the Arts Council of Park City & Summit County’s annual Art on the Trails event.

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and purchase local art, and where local artists can mingle with one another and get their art seen. So far, the CREATE PC has had almost one million dollars in sales, all of which goes directly into the artists’ pockets.”

But buoying local artists isn’t the only way the Arts Council is championing art in Summit County. Its website, pcscarts.org is a treasure trove of local art-specific beta, featuring a regularly refreshed blog and events calendar. The site also includes the council’s Art Adventure video guides, featuring local artists and athletes like Bridgette Meinhold and Caroline Gleich talking about their favorite art-meets-adventure experiences.

“We’ve gone through some pretty major events, like the pandemic, and the priorities of Summit County are rapidly changing. As the Art Council’s leader, I felt that I needed a plan with more specific boxes to check.”

Another way the Arts Council is weaving art into how visitors and residents experience Park City is by playing a defining role in the county’s vibrant and diverse public art collection. “Where most cities and counties have an arts director or manager on staff, neither Park City nor Summit County do and so they contract our organization to fulfill that role,” Jocelyn says. In this capacity, the Arts Council serves as advisor and liaison to the Park City Council for the Park City Art Advisory Board and administrator of the Summit County Public Art Advisory Board, managing the planning, operations and outreach for each group. This includes the execution and oversight of the 1% Public Percent-for-Art Policy, which sets aside one percent of the budget of county capital improvement projects to support new public art installations at Summit County construction or renovation sites. A recently completed 1% project is the Rocky the Moose and Sandy, Milo and River the Sandhill Crane with Colts sculptures at the Jeremy Ranch/Pinebrook Roundabouts.

Finally, the Arts Council also navigates the bigger picture of supporting and presenting visual art in Park City and Summit County through planning and advocacy. In February, the organization contracted with the Ohio-based consulting firm, Designing Local, to develop a new arts and culture masterplan. Work that Arts Council and Designing Local have engaging in since then include a resident survey, in-person thought exchange workshops and an examination of other mountain towns—including Jackson, Wyoming; Aspen and

Boulder, Colorado; and Flagstaff, Arizona—to discover how those areas are leveraging and integrating the arts into their respective communities.

Adopted in 2018, Project ABC (Art, Beauty and Culture) was the first arts and culture master plan spearheaded by the Arts Council, and was an effort, Jocelyn said, focused on bringing all the county’s different arts organizations together under one umbrella. And while she affirmed that much of Project ABC remains relevant to what the Arts Council does today, she also said that a lot has happened and changed in Summit County since Project ABC was written. “We’ve gone through some pretty major events, like the pandemic, and the priorities of Summit County are rapidly changing,” she said. “As the Art Council’s leader, I felt that I needed a plan with more specific boxes to check.”

One of the box-checking strategies the Arts Council is already engaging in is interacting closely with potential implementation partners to “take action and ownership in things the community has asked for, like more cultural facilities,” Jocelyn says. Look for the final version of the Arts Council of Park City & Summit County to be adopted by Summit County sometime later this fall.

START YOUR ART ENGINES

Monster Drawing Rally Returns to Park City on September 13

The Arts Council of Park City & Summit County and Kimball Art Center are teaming up once again to host the annual Monster Drawing Rally, an event allowing the rare chance for visual artists and art lovers to interact during the artistic process. Here’s how the event works: over the course of the afternoon, artists create artwork during live, 50-minute rounds. Pieces created must be two dimensional and no larger than 11x17 inches. When the 50-minute timer runs out, all pieces are sold for $50 each, with proceeds donated to the Arts Council and Kimball Art Center. Any piece with more than one hopeful owner—which is typically the case—is decided by a random card draw. “This fun and fast-paced event allows attendees to win original artwork by the luck of the draw, not how much they can pay,” Jocelyn said. “It levels the playing field for all collectors who want unique original artwork and it’s a great way for all people to engage in art collecting.” The event also includes a silent auction, food, cash bar and live music. For tickets and more details, visit kimballarts.org.

Facebook: @ParkCitySummitCountyArtsCouncil

Instagram: @pcscarts

The Madrona Difference Advisors + CPAs

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Phone: 833-673-7373

daniellem@madronafinancial.com

Listen to the “Growing Your Wealth” radio show on-demand wherever you get your Podcasts (Spotify or Apple Podcasts). Brian Evans has been on air for 12 years and Danielle is a monthly guest on the show!

FINANCE CORNER

BY DANIELLE M. MEISTER, EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR

BACK TO… SCHOOL, SNIFFLES, AND SPORTS INJURIES

Funding education plans & health savings accounts

As summer ends and students head back to school, parents face a dual challenge: the looming mountain of education costs and a wave of fall illnesses and sports injuries. Fortunately, back-to-school season is a great time to plan ahead with two tax-advantaged tools: 529 college savings plans for education and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) for healthcare. Both offer significant tax benefits to help your family scale those peaks and ride out those rough waters.

529 EDUCATION PLANS – BENEFITS EXPANDED

A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged account designed for education expenses. Money invested in a 529 grows tax-free, and withdrawals + growth are federally tax-free for qualified education costs. Qualified expenses include college tuition, fees, books, room and board. In 2025, you can contribute up to $19,000 per beneficiary ($38,000 for married couples) without gift tax, or use the five-year “superfunding” rule to frontload up to $95,000 ($190,000 for couples), understanding that any additional gifts to that beneficiary during the five years will tap into your lifetime exemption.

Increasing in 2026: the One Big Beautiful

Bill Act (OBBBA) will allow 529s to fund K–12 tuition, up to $20,000 per year (up from the current $10,000 annually).

Additionally, the range of qualified K–12 expenses has expanded beyond just tuition to encompass curriculum materials, standardized test fees, online learning tools, tutoring costs, dual-enrollment fees, and educational therapies for students with disabilities. That’s a big win for families!

If you’re worried about over-funding a 529, several new options are available for remaining funds. The OBBBA expands tax-free 529 withdrawals to cover workforce and continuing education programs listed under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), or by the Department of Veterans Affairs (WEAMS), and programs that prepare students for industry-recognized licensing exams – think CPA, bar, real estate licensing – and continuing education required to keep credentials active!

Even more, a 2024 update allows parents to rollover unused 529 money (up to $35,000) into that child’s Roth IRA, tax-and penaltyfree. However, there are conditions: the 529 account must be open at least 15 years, funds contributed within the last five years

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are not yet eligible, and the child must have earned income in that year. For most 529 account holders, this means leftover college savings can help jump-start a child’s retirement fund!

Thanks to these provisions, your education savings won’t go to waste even if your child’s plans change.

HEALTH SAVINGS ACCOUNTS – TRIPLE TAX BENEFITS

Back-to-school often also means the return of sniffles, sickness, and sports injuries. For families with an HSA-eligible high-deductible health plan, a Health Savings Account (HSA) is a great way to prepare for medical expenses. In 2025, you can contribute up to $4,300 with single HDHP coverage or $8,550 for family coverage (plus $1,000 catch-up at 55+), and these contributions are pre-tax, reducing your current taxable income. HSAs offer a triple tax advantage: the money goes in tax-free, grows tax-free, and comes out tax-free for qualified medical expenses.

Your HSA can cover far more than doctor visits and prescriptions. In addition to obvious expenses, funds can be used tax-free for dental care, vision correction, physical therapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, certain weight-loss programs, over-the-counter medications, sunscreen, and even travel or lodging for medical treatment (so long as they’re medically necessary).

You can use HSA funds now for medical bills without paying any tax, or let your balance grow for future needs – unused HSA dollars roll over each year and can be invested (don’t forget that important step!). After age 65, the 20% penalty on non-medical withdrawals disappears,

so remaining HSA money can be used for any purpose (non-medical withdrawals after 65 are simply taxed like a traditional IRA). In short, an HSA is a tax-friendly health fund now and a handy nest egg in retirement.

Bottom line: Back-to-school season is an ideal time to double-check that you’re taking full advantage of these highly tax-efficient accounts. Contributing to a 529 plan and an HSA now can help secure a healthier financial future for your family.

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 advisory services are provided through Madrona. CPA services are provided through Bauer Evans. While it's essential to optimize your tax situation, it's equally important to comply with tax laws and regulations. Always ensure that your tax-saving strategies are legal and appropriate for your financial situation.

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SUMMIT COUNTY TAPS INTO MAN’S BEST FRIEND IN ITS MISSION ON PUBLIC SAFETY THE ELITE K9 UNIT ON THE SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT TASK FORCE ARE PAWS ON PATROL

It’s probably one of the most valuable things a sheriff’s department can have because if you take stewardship toward your job in law enforcement you want to set a precedent that when you get a call you are going to solve the issue.

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WHILE SUMMIT COUNTY RESIDENTS GO ABOUT THEIR DAILY LIVES THERE IS A QUIET FORCE BEHIND THE SCENES ENSURING THAT COMMUNITY SAFETY IS TACKLED BY AN ELITE AND INDOMITABLE POLICE FORCE, OF BOTH THE TWO AND FOUR-LEGGED VARIETY.

The Summit County Sheriff’s Office is one of the few law enforcement agencies in the state to include a K9 program which addresses nearly every type of emergency and community safety need with a highly trained force of dedicated service dogs.

Sergeant Chase Schaeffer is a committed advocate for the value a well-rounded K9 force can bring to a law enforcement agency. A transplant from California, Schaeffer moved to Utah to pursue more available opportunities in law enforcement and has a long history in breeding and training dogs. Through his experience, he knows first-hand that a pairing of highly trained handlers and their canine partners can accelerate an agency’s ability to respond to law enforcement needs.

According to Schaeffer, over the past year the department formed a dedicated unit with a focus on growing the K9 force.

“Chief Deputy [Kacey] Bates and Sheriff [Frank] Smith are so dedicated to making Summit County the very best and they have put so much time and effort into getting our K9 unit going. It’s been a rocket ship effect.”

Schaeffer said Summit County is committed to focusing on the K9 force with dogs specifically trained for tasks that come natural to a breed, instead of tasking a K9 with multiple jobs not necessarily instinctive to the dog, which can make for less effective results. He insists that this approach can guarantee a more effective force with quicker results for any law enforcement call, from narcotics and drug trafficking, to missing persons, search and rescue, bomb threats, and apprehension.

“Most departments have dogs that do multiple things, and they might be ok multitasking, but they won’t be great at any one thing,” Schaeffer said. “If a dog has a great nose and can find odor, then everything they do should be about finding odor, whether that’s drugs, humans, cell phones or bombs. I want them to utilize that skill set that they’re really good at.”

To that end Schaeffer said all the K9s in the department are single-purpose in action and based on the dog’s natural instinct and inherent skillset. The department currently has six dogs in its K9 program, including four narcotics dogs, one man-tracking dog, one bomb sniffing dog, and that he hopes to add a cadaver dog to the program within the year. And, he said, the success

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rate using this approach has been evident. “We have taken off and become a standard among K9 units when it comes to the way we operate, the way we train, and our success rate when it comes to narcotics and human trafficking. The sky is the limit with what we’re doing.”

While it’s a common misconception to assume all police dogs are breeds like German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois the Summit County K9 unit has broken the mold, instead using a specific breed of spaniel on its force that has shown amazing prowess and an elite instinct for “nose work.” The key, said Schaeffer, is their focus on the hunt, and not the prey. “In law enforcement for years we have utilized dogs that have a high prey drive and for many of the tasks we don’t want the kill instinct, we just need a locator instinct,” he said. “It’s a different mentality-seek and destroy versus find and be happy.”

The department’s three spaniels, which have been recruited intentionally from Ireland, are the perfect breed for narcotics and other scent-based tasks. “Their hunt drive is unique because all they are concerned about is ‘finding it,’” he said. “Locating the odor and finding it is the greatest thing ever and when they do, they are so jubilant, it’s the greatest thing to see.”

Schaeffer said the department’s aha moment for using spaniels for tracking and narcotics work came when the department brought in two spaniels, K9 Spike and K9 Cooper. “K9 Spike had this amazing nose, and K9 Cooper just came out like gangbusters, hit the ground running and was fully certified in under a month

"Having our own police dogs gives us a significant advantage, reducing our reliance on outside agencies for support."

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and just did amazing things. We were like, ‘Ok, this is the route we want to take,” he said.

In addition to the spaniels, the K9 unit has one Bloodhound, a two-year-old named Hazel used for man tracking; a German Shepherd named Otto, that is tasked as a bomb sniffing dog; and Hunter, a nine-year-old Belgian Malinois who recently retired from the narcotics division and was replaced with K9 Rowdy, another spaniel. Schaeffer’s own K9, Loki, is a Yagd Terrier rounding out the narcotics segment of the K9 force.

While most of the department’s calls that would engage the K9 unit involve narcotics and search and rescue, the need for a bomb sniffing unit cannot be overlooked. According to Schaeffer, Otto, their bomb-squad dog, is an “insurance policy” and more proof that the department is aimed to be ready for anything. “We don’t sit around and wait for something to happen. Whenever there’s a large gathering the public doesn’t see it but we’re running sweeps all the time,” he said. “We do things all the time to make sure Summit County is safe which is a testament to our leadership. When you have the tools and the right leadership, it’s fantastic.”

Summit County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Kacey Bates affirms the department’s commitment to the community through elevating the K9 program. “We’re fortunate to have a strong K9 program in place, and we're excited to see it continue to grow. As our county evolves, and with the upcoming Olympics being hosted here, we’re proud to already be ahead of the curve. Having our own police dogs gives us a significant advantage, reducing our reliance on outside agencies for support.”

According to Schaeffer, the county’s Search and Rescue team is one of the most applied tasks for the K9 units. While it is headed up in large part by volunteers from the community, Schaeffer said Lieutenant Allan Siddoway, the department’s

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singular division commander, leads the department and is world-class. “Because of the mountainous area we live in, and the amount of tourism here, search and rescue is probably one of our most called upon needs,” he said. And, he said, the department is always ready with their K9 unit. “Because our man tracking dogs are not bite dogs it’s an easy transition to help civilians when it comes to search and rescue. K9 Hazel will go out when there’s a missing kid, a missing hiker and now K9 Cooper was just certified through the Division of Natural resources, which runs a very difficult tracking school. He was the only dog to receive three certifications. He was able to do things other dogs couldn’t do.” That, Schaeffer says, leads to the division’s high success rate in recovering missing people. “Summit County takes the bull by the horns and it’s a testament to the type of dogs we bring in. When the public calls the police on an extreme issue they expect us to be elite, they want the problem solved.”

The department has six officer handlers who are each paired with a dog specific to their training and personality, which Schaeffer says is another unique facet of the county’s K9 program. “When you do a great job matching the handler to the right officer based on personality and temperament it minimizes the chance of conflict. We are each with these dogs 24/7; they live with us, they go to work with us, so we have to make sure it’s the right fit,” he said.

Both handlers and dogs undergo extensive training. Dogs who typically enter the program are between 18 months and two years of age so that the department can accelerate their training. Each dog receives comprehensive and targeted training and multiple certifications for the tasks they are assigned, and each dog and handler engage in between 2-4 hours per day of ongoing training.

“We train far more than a normal deputy who typically receives about 40 hours a year. We train 40 hours a week,” he said. “We have to keep our dogs sharp because our administration and the public expect us to be on point at all times.”

Before a dog is deemed ready for work the county ensures it has received every level of state and national certification it can within its specific role. Schaeffer explained that when it comes to drug trafficking enforcement their narcotics dogs are trained to detect all illegal drugs. If you can think of one, they can detect it. “I want my dogs to be able to identify everything illegal in every situation,” he said. And, he said, the efficacy is proven. “We have made several arrests this past year that have yielded very large amounts of illegal narcotics, and from this has led federal agencies to arrest several high-profile drug and human traffickers.”

And, he added, because of this high level of training, each officer trusts the dogs implicitly. “Even if the presence of drugs isn’t visibly evident, our dogs see with their noses,” he said. “So, when a dog tells us there’s drugs present, because of their training and their instincts, we believe them.”

Schaeffer says the department’s only missing piece is a cadaver dog on the force. “Our sheriff and chief want a fully functional office. They don’t want to have the community wait because we weren’t prepared for a specific situation.” He added that the need for a dog trained in the task of recovering a deceased body is personal. “To me nothing in the world is worse than having a missing loved one. If I can bring closure to that by having a K9 then I’m going to do it,” he said. With that in mind, he said the

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department has plans to add this need to the unit when they find the right K9 fit.

While the dogs live with the handlers to whom they have been assigned, Schaeffer is quick to point out the dogs are not treated as family pets. “I run a tight ship,” he laughed. “Our working dogs have to have an extreme focus for what they’re meant to do. They have everything they need to be healthy, strong, and maintain a good focus, but I don’t allow our dogs to be a member of the family because I don’t want them to find something more fun than what they are trained to do.” A working K9 won’t be found at the dog park, hiking on trails, or otherwise engaging with other dogs or the public. “Nature gave them great instincts which we have tapped into, so we set them up for success. We want to keep highlighting those instincts and I don’t want them to think playing with the kids is more fun than finding drugs,” he laughed.

The financial burden on having a successful K9 program is daunting. Between the cost of procuring the dog to the extensive training, food, grooming and veterinary care, Schaeffer says it can cost between $10,000 and $13,000 to procure a dog and an additional $30,000-$50,000 for the training required. To that end he said, the local community has been generous. “We have been blessed with donors and because of [that] we are doing a lot

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of things other agencies are hindered from doing.”

Schaeffer said that the sheriff’s department is in the process of building onto its headquarters which will include a dedicated area for the care of their dogs, including boarding and grooming areas.

Schaeffer could not be more adamant about the value of a well-oiled K9 force. “If you take stewardship toward your job in law enforcement you are wanting to set a precedent that when you get a call you are going to solve the issue,” he said. “With a K9 unit you are now one step above average. It’s something I wish every county had. We want everyone to feel that they are safe.”

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Crafting Elegance Online:

Bella Cramer’s Artful Touch at Stein Eriksen Lodge

BY AIMEE L. COOK • PHOTO BY DEB DEKOFF

The Stein Eriksen Lodge embodies luxury, adventure, and alpine charm. Yet, beyond its picturesque settings is a dynamic storyteller working to capture and share the resort’s magic with the world. Bella Cramer, the social media specialist, has transformed the resort’s online presence into a seamless extension of its grandeur.

Bella joined the Stein Eriksen team three years ago with a vision as crisp and vibrant as the mountain air. Bella grew up in a small town in Michigan and is a graduate of High Point University in North Carolina. Bella moved to Park City in 2017 after graduating and has been there since.

“I grew up going to Park City, so I was familiar with the area,” Bella shared. “ I wanted to move to Australia until I realized how far that is. I settled in Park City to ski and have since become even more involved in outdoor activities. I hike, run and mountain bike now.”

Bella is the digital voice and lens of the Stein Eriksen Lodge. From Instagram and Facebook to LinkedIn, she brings the resort’s ethos to life. “When people see Stein Eriksen on their feeds, I want them to picture themselves doing it at Stein’s,” she said. Her approach is both creative and strategic, balancing authenticity with aspiration. Whether it’s a snowy panorama of the Wasatch Mountains at sunrise or a close-up of a decadent plate of food from the lodge’s renowned restaurant, Bella’s content does more than show, it evokes.

A HOLISTIC STORYTELLING APPROACH

At the core of Bella’s content strategy is a commitment to storytelling. Each post has a purpose, weaving together the resort’s legacy of excellence with the personal, in-the-moment experiences of its guests.

“It is funny how fast things can get outdated today,” Bella explains.

“Through social media, we can capture lifestyle content and market to an even broader audience.”

She often works with photographers to capture professional images but isn’t afraid to pick up a camera herself, creating content on the fly to capture the spontaneity of a guest’s experience. Her ability to balance the highly polished with the candid Instagram story keeps the resort’s digital presence feeling fresh, timeless, and real.

Beyond aesthetics, Bella leverages analytics and audience insights to ensure her work has a lasting impact. She monitors engagement metrics and adjusts in real time, using data to fine-tune strategies that reflect audience preferences. Above all, she keeps a firm pulse on the storytelling aspect, never compromising the essence of Stein Eriksen Lodge for fleeting trends.

BRINGING MOUNTAIN LUXURY TO THE WORLD

Bella’s efforts have paid off in more ways than one. Under her leadership, the resort’s follower count has increased with heightened engagement rates. Bella manages five social media accounts for the resort, the lodge, the residences, weddings, luxury home, and the Chateaux Deer Valley.

“Everyone, it seems, is on social media now, and it moves so quickly,” Bella said. “For us, it is about showing what a Forbes 5-Star resort is and what it is like to stay there.”

During the winter, her campaigns blend nostalgia with adventure,

inviting families and thrill-seekers alike to imagine themselves skiing down powdery slopes or sipping cocoa beside a roaring fire. Summers at Stein Eriksen see a pivot in tone, with sunlit hikes, al fresco dining, and lively events taking center stage. Bella and the team are also focused on family-friendly content; they want people to understand how familyoriented the Stein Eriksen Lodge is.

THE PERSON BEHIND THE POSTS

While her professional passion lies in showcasing the best of Park City through Stein Eriksen Lodge, Bella is equally drawn to the beauty of life outside the screen. On her days off, you might find her hiking the very trails. Grounded and approachable, she credits this balance with maintaining her creative energy. “To tell a story well and stay up on the trends, you have to live it and use it yourself,” she said.

Bella’s work proves that social media is far more than a tool for promotion; it’s an art form that can forge connections and elevate a brand’s identity. For Stein Eriksen Lodge, her digital storytelling has turned casual followers into loyal guests while elevating the resort’s reputation as one of the premier luxury destinations in the United States.

The next time an image of an enchanting snowy vista or a cozy fireside lounge catches your eye as you scroll, it just might have been crafted by Bella.

© Best Version Media

READING BUDDIES

From the joyful Judy Silver, our Reading Buddies facilitator:

We had a steady group of readers in July, and a big shoutout to Lorraine, our incredibly dedicated and beloved Compadres volunteer. One family donated a pile of big books, so Lorraine started to read a story to the whole group at the beginning of a recent session, then we broke into pairs. I particularly enjoyed reading about pirates this month, and the kids couldn’t stop laughing when I read “pirates” as “pilates,” since I didn’t have my glasses on! There’s nothing wrong with modeling a misread.

Additionally, Señora Doris, pictured above, joined us recently to help increase our Spanish-speaking readership!

Reading Buddies/Compadres de Lectura is hoping to expand, in both kids and volunteers, once school starts! Reading with a friend is so much fun and a great way to develop comprehension, fluency, and listening skills. We serve a light meal as well.

DIVERTIMOS VIAJANDO!!

WITTY WRITERS WORKSHOP

From our fearless facilitator, Britt Sady: Witty Writers is focused on creating a safe space for committed writers to develop and share their love of writing. In July, we completed an exploration of Julia Cameron’s classic, The Artist’s Way, which focuses on techniques and exercises to assist people in gaining self-confidence in harnessing their creative talents and skills. August will find us exploring Lisa Cron’s Story Genius, a book about crafting compelling stories by understanding the character’s internal world and how their past experiences shape their actions.

The first Tuesday of each month, newcomers are welcome to join us in conversation with guest writers who share tales from their writing journeys. Last month, we got to peek into the creative wildness of Park City’s Doug Wagner. On August 5th, we sat down with Utah short story and screenplay writer/film director and editor, Michael Amundsen. If you’d like to join our weekly writer’s circle, please email info@ caseyandcharleys.org to see if this group could be right for you.

LECTURA LOUNGE

FALL SCHEDULE

ALL PROGRAMS FREE TO THE COMMUNITY!

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

Calling all young explorers and their amazing, imaginationpowered families who love learning, discovery, and practicing Spanish—welcome aboard! During the month of July, we began a new season of Divertimos Viajando!! This is a space where children practice Spanish while diving into the culture of Spanishspeaking countries through games, crafts, traditional food, and lots of fun. In our introductory class, the children received their passports, learned about the five countries we will be visiting this season, and became familiar with our class dynamics and the importance of positive behavior. We also introduced our new reward system: Stickers earned through participation can be exchanged for special prizes at our end-of-season celebration in December.

July was all about exploring the small but amazing country of Panama. We held a fun mini boat race inspired by the impressive Panama Canal. We learned about the friendly agouti, which became the theme of our second craft and also inspired a classic game of cat and mouse. We also learned about the Guna and Emberá Querá Indigenous communities, along with many other fascinating aspects of Panamanian culture. Would you like your children to experience all of this as part of Divertimos Viajando!!? On August 1st, we began a new adventure , this time through Venezuela. We would be delighted to have your child join us. We will be waiting with passports in hand and lots of imagination! RSVP with a text to Elsa at (959) 229-7206.

Support Witty Writers by purchasing their published anthology, Neither Here Nor From There/Ni de aquí, ni de allá:

https://store.bookbaby.com/book/neither-herenor-from-there

Or...stop by Witty Writers’ author table at the Wasatch Book Festival on Saturday, October 4th, between 10:00 a.m and 2:00 p.m., on the 2nd floor of Park City Library to pick up a copy and meet some of our writers, along with other local authors in Summit County.

Copies of the book pictured below are $20 each. ¡Mil gracias!

WITTY WRITERS WORKSHOP

Tuesday, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.

BILINGÜITOS EN LA COCINA!! Wednesday, 4:30 - 6:00 p.m. ¡DIVERTIMOS! Wednesday, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

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

AP SPANISH TUTORING Saturday, 8:30 - 10:00 a.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

BY SKYELAR GOODMAN, INTERPRETIVE NATURALIST

PHOTOS BY JODI BUREN

LEAVES ON THE LOOSE!

As the crisp autumn air rolls into Park City, the landscape begins to shift from green to a kaleidoscope of gold, orange, and red. But why do leaves change color in the fall?

During spring and summer, leaves are green thanks to a pigment called chlorophyll, which helps trees turn sunlight into food —aka photosynthesis! As days grow shorter and temperatures drop, trees prepare for winter by slowing down their food-making process. Chlorophyll fades, revealing the hidden pigments underneath, such as carotenoids (yellow and orange) and anthocyanins (red and purple). This natural shift creates the spectacular fall show we look forward to each year.

This colorful transformation isn’t just beautiful—it’s the perfect invitation to get outside and explore. One of the best ways to enjoy the season is with an activity that gets the whole family involved — go on a leaf scavenger hunt!

LEAF SCAVENGER HUNT

Try this family-friendly leaf scavenger hunt around your neighborhood, a local trail, or even in your backyard. All you need is a bag

Get outside, slow down, and enjoy this short, colorful moment in Park City’s natural calendar. Because just like the leaves, the season is always changing, and that’s part of the magic. ENVIRONMENT

or basket for collecting—and your curiosity! We recommend looking for leaves that have already fallen to the ground. Not only does this help protect the trees and living plants, but fallen leaves often showcase the most dramatic colors, textures, and shapes!

Find a leaf that is:

▶ Bright red

▶ Larger than your hand

▶ Shaped like a heart

▶ Yellow

▶ Smaller than a coin

▶ Brown

▶ Speckled or multicolored

▶ Still green

Bonus activity! After the hunt, lay out your leaves and compare them. What observations can you make? Which is the biggest? The brightest? Try making a leaf collage or nature journal entry about your findings!

CLASSROOM GRANTS FOR 2025-2026 SCHOOL YEAR

Park City School District schools will begin the 2025/26 school year with $245,000 dollars in funding for PCEF Classroom Grants.

Classroom Grant funds are raised by runners, donors, fundraisers, and the community during Park City Education Foundation’s Running with Ed. 100% of RWE proceeds fund educator programs to positively impact every single PCSD student!

Students across all six schools will benefit from these Classroom Grants in the 2025/26 school year:

PARK CITY HIGH SCHOOL

▶ Aviation Pathway Program - Flight Simulation

▶ Help us "Make Music!"

▶ Latinos in Action (LIA)

▶ Mobile Language Labs & Classroom Libraries

▶ Music Professionals in the Classroom

▶ PCHS Speech & Debate

▶ PCHS Theatre - Fall Musical

▶ Positive Behavior Interventions & Support (PBIS)

▶ Special Education Support

PARK CITY LEARNING CENTER

▶ Learning Center Store

▶ Special Education Support

ECKER HILL MIDDLE SCHOOL

▶ Ecker Hill Garden Club

▶ Help us "Make Music!"

▶ Latinos in Action (LIA)

▶ Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) Motivation and Encouragement

▶ Music Professionals in the Classroom

▶ Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)

▶ Special Education Support

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

▶ After School Spanish Club (MPES)

▶ Conscious Discipline Implementation, Phase 2 (PPES)

▶ Enhancing Math & French Fluency Through Educational Board Games (TSES)

▶ Positive Behavior Interventions & Support (PBIS) (JRES, MPES, PPES, TSES)

▶ McPolin Musical - Finding Nemo (MPES)

▶ RC Race and Engineering League (JRES, MPES, PPES, TSES)

▶ Special Education Support (JRES, MPES, PPES, TSES)

Classroom Grants are awarded in a participatory process: The Grant Committee consisted of 10 educators, 1 community member/parent, and 3 PCHS students. All schools were represented.

Park City schools and teachers are essential for a successful community. In a state with the lowest public education funding in the country, your support is needed for Classroom Grants and other PCEF initiatives. We invite you to contribute on our website at pcef4kids.org

BY PHOEBE ZANIELLO, YOUTH WRITER

HarriesLloyd

Harries Lloyd graduated from Park City High School last spring, and he is attending college in the fall. There, he plans to major in mechanical engineering, an idea that has been in the making since he was a little kid. Harries describes himself as a “button pusher,” somebody who constantly questions the way something works. When he figures out how something works, he likes to tweak it, creating something wholly original, something of his own making. As a kid, it was programming, specifically on Scratch, that offered a chance to make something new. From programming, he discovered an interest in web development, where he could create more things by typing his own code. Through this, he had a realization: it was not the coding that excited him, it was the result of it, something tangible and entirely his own. He developed an interest in 3-D printing, tinkering with the cars in his driveway, and building things outside of code. When choosing a path of study, computer science offered the promise of creation accompanied by algorithms and a future of artificial intelligence, areas that aren’t particularly appealing to Harries. Mechanical Engineering, on the other hand, provided a space for hands-on creation in a very physical and tangible sense.

Beyond his major in mechanical engineering, Harries is minoring in polar science, specifically glaciology, another interest that has taken shape throughout his childhood. Last summer, Harries attended the Juneau Icefield Research Program, a research program for undergraduate college students in Alaska. He learned of the opportunity from his mother, who participated in the program as a high school student and returned as faculty and staff for almost thirty years. Over the course of three months, students live on an icefield, which Harries describes as “one big accumulation zone that many glaciers flow out of.” In learning about glaciers and crossing them at the program, Harries cultivated an interest in the section of environmental science that concerns the cryosphere. He explains ogives, which he says look like waves coming out of an ice ball. Just as a waterfall pouring out into a river creates waves, an ice fall into a glacier creates ogives. He states, “I got to experience these crazy things that are glaciers. They’re just so massive and move in ways that you wouldn’t expect.”

Despite having an interest in both engineering and environmental science, Harries found that environmental engineering didn’t include the direct construction and tangible formation of stuff that he desired. He states, “My skill set is in mechanical engineering. How can I use that to support people who are studying the outdoors?” During his experience on the Juneau Icefield, he found one of the answers to this question, illustrating how mechanical engineering can be useful in the realm of glaciology. On the ice cube last year, Harries met a mechanical engineer who worked with environmental scientists to create instruments to better study the glaciers. This engineer would speak with glaciologists in order to design devices, like those for measurement, that could be used to grasp a greater understanding of the movements of glaciers. Harries also interacted with others that shared his hands-on thinking, mechanics who constructed buildings for the researchers. For Harries, these jobs represent an intersection of his two passions in a very literal and achievable way. Though he may not be in one of these positions in the future, they portray the possibility of a position where he can take action on understanding and helping glaciers through his skills as a mechanical engineer.

Like most people who grow up in Park City, Harries loves the mountains and the cold, snowy conditions that hover above them. Before he could walk, he was on a pair of skis, where he fostered a love for gliding atop mountains and breathing into the cold. This paired well with his growing interest in hockey, where he could glide over ice in the cold, which he did throughout high

school. These hobbies, as well as his passion for glaciers, made him aware of an issue that continues to threaten them: climate change. He states, “Global warming is a strong issue that I care deeply about, because I love glaciers, and I love skiing, and that’s probably one of the things that is most impacted.” One of his goals within his future of engineering and glaciology is to take a more active role in the fight against global warming. Through research, through studying its effects, he hopes to fight the global issue that threatens the things he loves to do.

In the fall, Harries is going to Colorado School of Mines in Golden, Colorado. Surrounded by mountains, and boasting one of the highest average salaries after graduation for undergraduates in the country, the college provides Harries with a ski playground and an excellent education in engineering. To get himself into such a school, Harries used high school to foster his interests in the mechanical world. He took classes like physics and technical design that taught him the principles of engineering and how to actually apply them. For incoming high schoolers, Harries encourages them to take only the classes they are interested in. He says, “Take the classes you want to take, and everything else will follow. Your passion can be enough to get you into the college you want to go to.”

PC Tots: Supporting Park City’s Families

BY AIMEE L. COOK

PC Tots is a place in Park City where children are given the chance to thrive and working parents can feel confident knowing their kids are in good hands while they’re at work. PC Tots is more than just a daycare center, it has become a lifeline for many local families by offering affordable, high-quality early childhood education.

Every month, PC Tots provides over $70,000 in tuition scholarships. These scholarships, which range from $400 to $1,500 per child, make an enormous difference for more than 80% of the families they serve. For many parents, this support brings much-needed relief from financial stress during some of the most important years of their children’s development.

Katie Madsen, the marketing and development manager at PC Tots, believes in the power of investing in families. “When we invest in working families and give our kids a solid foundation, we’re investing directly in Park City’s future.”

PC Tots tailors its programs for local workers, offering flexible and yearround care with a special focus on those employed in the hospitality and tourism industries. The organization ensures that parents can focus on their jobs, confident that their children are safe, cared

for, and learning in a nurturing environment.

The generosity of Park City’s residents and partners fuels all of these efforts. Each year, dedicated donors and community supporters contribute $1.4 million, enabling PC Tots to maintain its mission. This funding isn’t just about numbers; it’s what enables continued scholarships, keeps the doors open, and guarantees that each child has every opportunity.

PC Tots is currently enrolling children from eight weeks to five years old.

In supporting PC Tots, the community helps every child grow while their family feels supported and Park City shines brightest when our most vulnerable are taken care of.

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

© Best Version Media

• Top performing team for KW Park City 2018-2024

• Top performing team for KW Park City 2018-2024

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

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• Top performing team for KW Park City 2018-2024

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

• Top performing team for KW Park City

• 20+ years of combined experience

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

• 20+ years of combined experience

• We sell an

• Buy or Sell with us in 2025!

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• 20+ years of combined experience

• 20+ years of combined experience

• Buy or Sell with us in 2025!

• Buy or Sell

• Buy or Sell with us in 2025!

EXCEPTIONAL CARE AND EXPERTISE:

How Jamie and Quinn Turned a Challenging Mortgage Journey Into a Success

I want to take a moment to rave about the incredible work Jamie Nielsen and Quinn Richins of VanDyk Mortgage did for me. These two mortgage professionals truly went above and beyond to help me achieve my financial goals, and I am grateful for their dedication.

They successfully completed two very complex loans for me: a condo refinance that was far from straightforward, and a new home loan I share with my sister, who is a single mom. Both of these loans were complicated and not your typical transactions. Many other lenders might have walked away or refused to take on such challenging scenarios. But Jamie and Quinn didn’t flinch. They tackled every obstacle head-on, jumping through hoops and navigating complex situations with confidence and expertise.

What stood out most was their kindness and patience throughout the entire process. It was clear that they genuinely cared about helping my sister and me achieve our dreams. They provided constant guidance and reassurance, sharing their insights and experience at every step. They weren’t just professional—they also brought a great sense of humor to what could have been a stressful journey, making everything much more manageable and even enjoyable.

They worked tirelessly to secure the best rates possible for us, which ultimately saved us a significant amount of money each month. Their dedication to finding the right financial solution truly made a difference.

Beyond their professional expertise, Jamie and Quinn showed they cared deeply about us as individuals. During the process, we experienced a devastating loss in our family,

and they were there for us — sharing tears and offering genuine support. They even loved on our fur babies when we brought them into the office, demonstrating kindness and compassion far beyond what is typical of a mortgage service.

Their professionalism was outstanding. They handled everything with integrity, attention to detail, and a level of care that made me feel like I was their top priority. Thanks to Jamie and Quinn, we were able to secure our loans when others might have given up, and I couldn’t be more grateful.

If you’re looking for mortgage pros who combine expertise, kindness, and a genuine desire to help, look no further than Jamie Nielsen and Quinn Richins at VanDyk Mortgage. I recommend them wholeheartedly to friends, family, neighbors, and everyone reading this. They made what could have

been a stressful process smooth, manageable, and ultimately successful for me and my family. They are truly the best. Trustworthy, caring, and exceptional at what they do.

STRONG ROCK PAVERS: RAISING THE STANDARD FOR OUTDOOR HARDSCAPES IN UTAH

When it comes to transforming outdoor spaces into beautiful, long-lasting works of art, Strong Rock Pavers sets the bar high. Based in Utah, this locally owned and operated business has built a reputation for quality, durability, and integrity—one paver at a time.

FROM BRAZIL TO UTAH: THE FOUNDER’S JOURNEY

The story behind Strong Rock Pavers is as inspiring as the projects they build. In 1993, Elio Vianna left Brazil to follow his mother to the United States. Eager to make a new life, he enrolled in aviation school in Florida to pursue a private helicopter pilot’s license. But life had other plans.

While studying, Vianna took a job with a local construction company to stay busy. It was there that he discovered an unexpected passion, installing cobblestone pavers. What started as a way to earn a paycheck soon evolved into something more.

“I loved it,” Vianna recalls. “Even though the work was physically demanding, there was something about creating with my hands that felt like therapy. Every project was a piece of art.”

Working from one beautiful home to another, Vianna realized he wasn't just laying stones— he was helping clients bring their dream

spaces to life. That sense of purpose led him to pursue hardscape construction full-time.

Years later, after relocating to Utah, he founded Strong Rock Pavers—a company built on the values he carried from Brazil: craftsmanship, honesty, and pride in one’s work.

THE POWER OF PAVERS

So, why choose pavers over traditional materials like concrete or asphalt? The answer is simple: performance and beauty.

Unlike poured concrete, which is prone to cracking during Utah’s extreme freeze-thaw cycles, pavers are designed to withstand these conditions. Their modular nature allows them to shift slightly with the ground, reducing the risk of damage. If a paver is ever damaged, it can be replaced individually, saving time and money.

Beyond durability, pavers offer unmatched visual appeal. Available in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and patterns, they enable complete customization and creative design. Whether it’s a sleek, modern driveway or a rustic backyard retreat, pavers add elegance and long-term value to any property.

“Pavers just make sense for Utah,” Vianna explains. “They hold up better, look better, and give homeowners the freedom to create something personal.”

WHY CHOOSE STRONG ROCK?

While pavers are excellent, the results depend heavily on who installs them—and that’s where Strong Rock Pavers stands out. Every project begins with an in-person consultation. Vianna and his team take the time to understand the customer’s vision, needs, and budget. From material selection to drainage planning, they bring expertise to every step.

What truly sets them apart is their dedication to craftsmanship. No shortcuts, no subpar materials.

“We build from the ground up—literally and professionally,” says Vianna. “We take pride in every layer of our work, starting with the foundation.”

This commitment to doing things right has earned Strong Rock Pavers a loyal following. Much of their work comes through referrals from satisfied customers.

One such client, Amanda T. from Sandy, Utah, shared: “Strong Rock Pavers turned our boring concrete driveway into the highlight of our home. The crew was professional, clean, and precise—everything was done right. We constantly get compliments from neighbors. I’d recommend them to anyone!”

© Best Version Media

A LOCAL COMPANY THAT UNDERSTANDS UTAH

As a Utah-based business, Strong Rock Pavers understands the region's unique challenges—from cold winters to high-altitude sun exposure. Every project is designed to withstand local conditions while boosting curb appeal and property value.

“We’re building for our neighbors,” says Vianna. “That’s why every detail matters.”

Transparency is also a core value. There are no hidden fees or highpressure sales, only honest recommendations and fair pricing.

BUILT TO LAST, DESIGNED TO IMPRESS

At its core, Strong Rock Pavers values the art of hardscaping and serving people. Whether creating a family gathering space or a custom driveway, Vianna and his team bring vision, quality, and integrity to every project.

As the company proudly states: “We love our pavers; that’s what our customers say.”

To schedule a free consultation or learn more about their services, visit www.strongrockpavers.com or call 435-703-8937.

© Best Version Media

PARK CITY MINERS SEPTEMBER 2025

Sept 02 @ Murray 3:30 pm

Sept 04 @ Juan Diego Catholic 4:00 pm

Sept 09 Vs Highland 3:30 pm

Sept 11 @ Cottonwood 3:30 pm

Sept 16 @ Judge Memorial Catholic 3:30 pm

Sept 18 @ Jordan 3:30 pm

Sept 23 @ East 3:30 pm

Sept 26 Vs Murray 7:00 pm

Sept 30 Vs Juan Diego Catholic 3:30 pm

Oct 02 @ Highland 3:30 pm

Oct 06 Vs Cottonwood 3:30 pm

RaeMorrison

Discipline: Artistic Gymnastics Favorite Things: Backpacking, climbing mountains, and throwing flips (indoors or outside)

This month, we are proud to recognize Rae Morrison as our Athlete Leader of the Month for her ability to push herself to be her best and inspire those around her to do the same. Rae has always been known for her strong work ethic, but over the summer she has taken her leadership to the next level— guiding her teammates toward making smart, strategic choices that support their long-term gymnastics goals. She consistently leads by example, demonstrating a willingness to

embrace new techniques, explore new skills, and put in the same steady, focused effort day after day to improve her consistency.

What truly sets Rae apart is her ability to recognize when challenges arise and proactively communicate with her coaches. Rather than pushing through in silence, she seeks collaboration, ensuring that solutions are tailored to help her succeed. This openness, combined with her patience and intentional approach, reflects an impressive level of maturity and self-awareness for an athlete her age.

Coach Taylor Craig describes Rae’s leadership as, “Not about being the loudest voice in the

room—but rather, about modeling the habits, mindset, and resilience that inspire her peers to follow suit. She understands that progress takes time, and she’s willing to trust the process while giving her best every step of the way.”

Rae’s mom Courney added, “It makes us so proud that Rae has been recognized for her dedication in the gym. She has worked hard this year on her communication skills, patience, and keeping an ‘I can-do-it’ attitude. Rae, whether it’s in the gym, in the mountains, at school, or simply baking at home, be patient and keep believing in yourself because you can do incredible things.”

BY IZZY CRANDALL, YOUTH WRITER

MeganMagee ©

Tufts University, located just outside of Boston, Massachusetts, is considered a “little” or a “mini” Ivy. These schools, though not as prestigious as those in the Ivy League, offer academic excellence, closer-knit communities, personalized education, and high-level opportunities right after graduation. Tufts follows this pattern, with an undergraduate population of less than 7,000, and a student-to-faculty ratio of 10 to 1. However, don’t mistake the small class sizes as an easy entry—Tufts has an acceptance rate of only 10.1%, and the average weighted GPA required is 4.11. On top of high academic standards, Tufts has a strong athletic program, which includes an impressive D1 (Division 1) Women’s Lacrosse team headed by Courtney Shute. This team has made it to the NCAA Tournament—essentially nationals—10 times since 2009, making Tufts one of the top lacrosse schools in the nation.

All of that is to say, Tufts University is no small feat to get accepted to—and Park City’s own Megan Magee happens to be heading there this fall to study economics and play D1 Lacrosse!

After moving to Park City at the age of four, Megan tried out a variety of sports, including dance and soccer. But, while playing soccer in elementary school, she couldn’t help but get her hands involved. Jokingly, her parents signed her

up for lacrosse when she was in fifth grade—that way, her hands would be busy with the stick— and Megan instantly fell in love. From the start, Megan enjoyed how competitive lacrosse was. She quickly improved her skills and speed, trying to become better than her yesterday self. Megan also was driven from the get-go because she looked up to her family and their success in lacrosse. Megan’s dad played in college, and her brother was highly successful at it, making varsity as a freshman.

As Megan grew up, her love for lacrosse didn’t falter. By her freshman year in high school, Megan was a midfield starter, known for her speed and agility. During her sophomore year, this linear line of success was tested. While in California for a match, Megan’s teammate and fellow midfield starter suffered an injury and had to withdraw from the competition. Megan’s hamstring had been feeling tight leading into the game, but she pushed on, not wanting to let the team down. Sadly, during the game, Megan tore her hamstring, pulling her out of training and competition for two months.

Although this was clearly a setback, Megan was able to take away key lessons from this injury. On a personal level, Megan started to learn how to listen to her body to find the finicky balance

between dedicated training and overuse injuries. Also, during her time on the bench, Megan took the time to be the team’s cheerleader and coach, hyping the girls up before matches and giving supportive advice.

In and out of injury, Megan explains that the lacrosse community has been unparalleled. Even as each player is reaching for personal success, the team love is never forgotten. For one, when a teammate scores a goal, Megan says everyone is filled with even more excitement than if it had been their own point, because, as a teammate, they know all about the dedication each person has put in. And, when a teammate slips up, they are not met with shame. Instead, there is a universal understanding that the player will recognize and try their best to fix their mistake, because the team is in it together.

After healing from the torn hamstring with the support of her community, Megan went into her junior year with big dreams. For lacrosse, the

PHOTOS BY SABRINA BOEHLKE

© Best Version Media

summer before junior year is filled with the most pressure for success, with recruiters from top colleges looking for their next star players. As she prepared for this key junior season, Megan continued a rigorous training schedule. During the fall and winter, she joined the Park City track team to improve her speed for lacrosse, making sure to run five to six times a week. On top of running, Megan lifted three to four times a week, and she practiced her skills with a wall ball in her backyard daily. Her training was going well, and everyone expected a highly successful junior season for Megan—then she strained her compromised hamstring. This injury took her out of competition and diminished her dreams of being recruited to top Ivy league schools.

Although disheartening at the time, it provided Megan with a different perspective. Recruiters from larger schools weren’t reaching out to Megan, so she started looking into smaller schools that had tried to recruit her. In the fall of her junior year, Megan toured Tufts, and, like with her instant love for lacrosse, she knew that this was where she wanted to go. Describing it as a “magical visit,” Megan was immersed in the university’s culture in just a few days. She met with, and immediately connected with, the women’s lacrosse team coach and players, easily sliding jokes and breaking into laughs. Tufts, with its close proximity to a large city, small class sizes, and stellar academics, checked all her boxes. She knew it was a perfect fit. Megan looks back on her unfortunately timed

injury, explaining that “everything happens for a reason.” If she hadn’t torn her hamstring and strained it again during her junior year, she wouldn’t have found Tufts and the amazing opportunities that it holds for her future. As she starts her freshman year, Megan is looking forward to the next four years at Tufts, where she’ll improve her lacrosse skills, connect with new friends, and study economics. One of her goals in this next chapter of life is to help the Tufts lacrosse girls reach the NCAA Tournament for the 11th time, and possibly take home a national title.

From injury setbacks to attending a top university, Megan Magee is a resilient young lady, taking great strides to success.

© Best Version Media

WE RIDE ON ROUND THINGS

In an incredible 20 minutes, Park Tool’s wheel-building YouTube video attempts to explain an extremely complex process, having been viewed more than a million times. Even though it may seem thorough, with tips like using a toothpick to insert the nipple, there is still a lot missing:

What happens when your pattern doesn’t align halfway through? What happens when the spokes don’t tension correctly, and the wheel is out of dish? And what is “dish”?

Park’s channel orients viewers to more videos for further understanding. The quest for information lands on Sheldon Brown’s wheel-building specialty website, which has been up for at least 15 years.

I once worked with a career mechanic referencing Brown’s instruction. Sadly, spokes unintentionally crowded the valve stem, preventing easy tire inflation. This was not considered until the wheel was “finished” and the tire seated at 40 psi.

MECHANICALLY SPEAKING

The bike wheel is 99% art(form) and 1% function. Anyone who has ridden a custom wheel with Chris King hubs at the center, suspended by double-butted race spokes, can attest to the beautiful, smooth feel, an aesthetic blending into mechanical experience.

A properly laced wheel lines the valve-stem port over the hub’s center decal and spokes open above it so that a pump head can be easily placed and removed. It holds true for years under regular use.

Hubs are central, carrying bearings and gears, but also are loaded with tension. The tension spreads across 24 to 32 spokes, laced with different patterns to achieve a load-bearing round thing.

Spokes mount to the hub at the flange, built-up material on the outer circumference, through holes drilled for inserting spokes. On the opposite end, a small nut called a “nipple” threads onto the spoke, holding it into the rim. This system is mostly repeated in different designs with light variation. Products vary in material and construction.

NOT WHAT YOU THINK

Contrary to popular thought, the weight placed on a wheel is not resting on the downward spoke; the load is hanging from the upward spokes. Every time you hit a drop on your enduro rig or a pothole on your road bike, the impact is attempting to stretch spokes, not compress them.

Properly tensioned wheels spread this load across many spokes, preventing the wheel from quickly falling apart, bending, or breaking.

Spinergy, a highly innovative compositewheel company, has messed around with unorthodox ideas, one of which was a Kevlar spoke resembling a cooked noodle. Once up to tension, the wheel was straight, strong, and mostly reliable.

Spokes are tensile. They are not compressive; you couldn’t stack a single book on a standing spoke.

BUILD FACTORS: TENSION, DISH, ROUND, TRUE

If the tension is equal across each side of the wheel, the mass spins without horizontal wobble (true), and the circumference spins exactly in place without a vertical wobble (round). This typically measures one tension on the drive side (chain side of the bike/ wheel), another on the non-drive-side. Equally, the rim sits centered over the axle,

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which often does not appear so, given that the hub shell must accommodate disc-brake rotors and cassettes—as well as spokes— which makes the hub center appear offset to the rest of the wheel. What this all does is center the rim in the bike; that’s the important part.

For most folks, basic understanding of all these factors means they can “true” the wheel at home or on the trail.

Remember this wheel-building maxim: “A wheel is pulled into tension, not pushed.”

So, if the wheel wobbles left to right as it spins, rather than spinning center and straight, we put it in the truing stand and adjust tension.

If the rim is moving left of center, we have two factors to consider. One, the right-side spoke is low on tension or not tight enough, and two, the left-side spoke is too tight or has too much tension. It could be a combination. If you don’t have a tensiometer, a tool for measuring spoke tension, you can flex the spokes with your fingers to see if the right one feels loose or if the left feels too tight and loaded. The latter technique is more or

less winging it—as they say.

Next, add tension to the right side and recheck “true.” If that doesn’t work, reduce some tension on the left. At this point, the rim should start to move toward the center. This often involves more than two spokes, so it’s important to make a mental note of which spoke has how much tension. If nothing happens, you have a bent rim.

This is the foundation to wheel understanding. And this is if you’re working with a standard, handbuilt wheel. Specialty wheels from Fulcrum, Mavic, Pillar of I9, and the like can leave even a seasoned mechanic confused and disillusioned.

If you are serious about wheel-building, you cannot do so casually—it must be actively pursued. Start by finding junk wheels and trying your hand at straightening them out, then try to take one apart. And, maybe, when you get brave, you could put one back together. But then you’re going to find out about material fatigue and spoke calculations. We all needed more than a 20-minute video…

To be continued…

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SMALL-TOWN, BIG PIPELINE: PARK

CITY FOOTBALL QUIETLY BECOMES A COLLEGE RECRUITING POWERHOUSE

PARK CITY, Utah — In a ski town more often recognized for moguls and mountain biking, Park City High School’s football program has quietly built a reputation as a consistent pipeline to college football. Since 2020, the Miners have sent 33 players to compete at the collegiate level — including 21 to Division I programs — averaging 5.5 signees per year. That number far exceeds the national average, where most high schools send fewer than one player annually.

The program’s upward trajectory began with a pair of deep postseason runs in 2018 and 2019, including a trip to the state championship, which helped raise the team’s profile. Since then, a focus on athletic development, academic strength, and proactive recruiting strategies has helped sustain the momentum.

“The kids, coaches, and parents deserve all the praise and credit for what the program has become,” said Jamie Sheetz, Park City High School’s athletic and activities director. Strong academics have also played a role. Park City student-athletes have signed with elite institutions such as MIT, Stanford, Cal

Berkeley, and, most recently, Penn. “Park City players usually are going to have the grades and test scores to qualify for the next level,” said Chris Bodily, whose son, Bash, will attend the U.S. Naval Academy.

The Park City Passing League has further shaped the culture, giving younger athletes a chance to learn directly from current high school players — many of whom have gone on to play in college. That early connection has fueled belief and continuity throughout the program.

“Seeing other players from Park City go to big schools helped me believe that I could,” said Bash Bodily. “Coco Lukrich was my coach in the Passing League when I was young. He went on to play for Stanford. That definitely made me think it was possible. We were all excited to just have the high school players coach us. Later, it was cool for me to coach other kids in Passing League.”

Bodily also credited head coach Josh Montzingo for shaping players’ development and expanding their opportunities. “Coach Montzingo definitely develops us,” he said. “He also does a great job of getting players

face to face with college coaches from programs around the country.”

Now entering the next chapter of his career, Bodily will suit up for Navy, while teammate Justin Michaelis will head to Rice — both members of the same college conference.

“Justin and I will be in the same league so we will play each other,” Bodily said. “It’s cool that I’ll get to play one of my teammates at the next level.”

Two other players from the Class of 2025 are also headed to play college football: Luke Castelli (Penn) and Liam Gallon (Colorado Mesa), bringing last year’s total to four college-bound athletes.

In total, since Montzingo took over the program in 2016, 39 Park City players have gone on to play college football, including 23 at the Division I level. That success hasn’t come from size, population, or national notoriety — but rather from a clear culture of discipline, year-round training, academic excellence, and long-term investment in athletes’ futures.

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MUSIC SERIES:

TheGlitterBombs

The Glitter Bombs were born in the summer of 2020 in Missy Stone’s backyard, where Missy and the original guitar player practiced six feet apart with their masks on. After a year of writing songs, they found their drummer, Jason Chynoweth. Bassist Jacob Danks has been with them for almost two years, and Johnny Pavement replaced the original guitar player eight months ago.

I first saw The Glitter Bombs perform at a private event in Oakley. Their high-energy rock/pop/punk sound, together with Missy Stone’s outgoing personality, sparked an instant dance party.

The members of The Glitter Bombs have been immersed in music for decades. Missy grew up in Park City and started piano at age seven. It was her passion until she discovered her voice. In a band, she sang with her mom, who taught her how to harmonize. Missy still loves playing piano; it’s where her songwriting is born. Onstage, she now picks up the tambourine while singing.

Missy attended kindergarten through high school in Park City and first met her husband at Treasure Mountain Middle School in sixth grade. They were friends, but after high school, they didn’t see each other for 10 years, which is when they reconnected. Eventually, they got married.

Johnny, originally from Fresno, California, found his first guitar in a trash can at age 12 when he was doing his paper route. He played in a punk band when he was 19, then added blues to his repertoire. He also performs with some cover bands. Johnny has a laid-back attitude, but his guitar solos amp up the band’s already high energy. He says his alter ego is a biology professor. Mostly, he wonders how much fun he can squeeze into gigs.

Hailing from Richfield, Utah, Jason is the drummer and co-leader of the band. His other musical outlet is a jazz quartet. Jacob arrived from Dallas, then from Branson, Missouri. His claim to fame is having played at Carnegie Hall and in more than 3,000 gigs.

The Glitter Bombs have one more member, Jeff Burgener, whom they consider the band dad/wizard. He is their sound guy, and he has been in the music business since the ’70s. With more than 30 gigs performed in 2024/2025, some of The Glitter Bombs’ favorites have been Park Silly Sunday Market, TedFest, and Ketch’em Alive. “Outdoor live music is always the juiciest sound,” says Missy. “Ketch’em Alive has 1,000 to 1,200 people in a park. We learn from every experience that we have.”

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MaryPerry MAKERS SERIES: PHOTOGRAPHER

Mary Perry has been taking pictures since her childhood, using them as references for her painting. For 15 to 20 years, she has been moving towards photography. Covid inspired her to really dive in because she wanted to show people that the world is still beautiful.

Mary has been expanding her skills along the way, with two great mentors who have held many workshops. One is out of Boston—she met him in New Mexico and started taking his workshops when he taught one in Florida. The other is local photographer Richard Pick. Both mentors’ passion of wanting to share has rubbed off on Mary, so she tries to pay the lessons she learned forward by helping other photographers in any way she can.

Known for her nature photography, Mary was delighted to share the other side of her talent—her human touch with portraits

and buildings—at Park City Library. At the No Kings March, she took a photo of a man holding the American flag, gripping it tightly. While Mary is not a news photographer, she says, “If the opportunity arises, my camera will be with me.” She wants you to feel the energy, human and environmental alike. As a photographer, she remembers to be respectful and kind, whether it is to each other or to nature.

Mary has big goals; she is going for it, having taken initiative since she was a child. “I would love to be invited to a gallery in a big city,” she says. “I would love to have people see my work around the world.”

Mary grew up in Salt Lake City, so the outdoors has always been a significant part of her life. She wandered with her brother through the reeds at the Great Salt

Lake, hiked up in the Uinta mountains, and developed a passion for skiing. Once, her 10-year-old self ditched school, grabbed her skis and clothes, and hitchhiked to Alta. She planned to ride the rope tow all day. She wouldn’t do that now, but back then, she had a wonderful time. A young man from the University of Utah called her parents, told them she was with him, and bought her lunch. She was grounded after that.

Forty-five years ago, Mary Perry moved to Park City, where she can be found on the mountain on powder days. Her dreams of being a globally known photographer are well within reach. Her next adventure is a workshop in Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Instagram: @mpartinPC

DESIGNER'S CREATIVE JOURNEY

THE ART OF INDIVIDUALITY: A YOUNG

In a world where middle schoolers often follow trends to mirror their peers, true individuality stands out. This is especially true for Bonny Cason, who arrived at Ecker Middle last fall wearing bright colored faux fur fringes, Pucci-patterned bell bottoms, funky earrings, and vibrant Peter Max-inspired prints. Her bold fashion choices aren’t just about clothes—they are an expression of a cumulative creativity and a cool confidence in self.

Bonny is a 12 yr old sartorial designer whose inspiration stems from the fashion forward styles seen on musicians at the Grammy Awards. Her creative process is both structured and imaginative. She begins by visualizing the piece, sketching it, and carefully planning how she will bring it to life. Texture, color, fabric prints, and sewing patterns guide her work––and color, especially, plays a crucial role. She builds her palettes around what inspires her at the moment—whether it’s a blooming garden or a red carpet outfit made from unconventional materials like flowers.

Rather than seeking external validation, Bonny’s measure of success is deeply personal. “It only matters if I like it,” she says. This strong sense of self is partly shaped by her mentor, Isabelle, who has taught her the power of “reverse thinking” and the value of doing things the right way, even if it's harder. Isabelle’s guidance has helped Bonny refine her sewing skills and problem-solving abilities, especially when projects don’t go as planned. Then, states Bonny, she has to “unpick and resew.”

Bonny’s artistic journey began early. Crafting since she was a toddler, she never had a single moment when she "became" an artist—it has always been a part of who she is. While she's self-taught in many mediums, her sewing skills have been honed through mentorship. Her dream? To have her work displayed at the Grammys, where the intersection of fashion and music thrives. She hopes viewers of her wearable art feel empowered to create their own visions, no matter how unconventional, and that they sashay away––head held high––for being one of a kind. Just like Bonny.

BonnyCason

A LOVE SONG TO THE SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL, OR HOW NOT TO MISS OUT IN 2026

My experiences with the Sundance Film Festival (SFF) reach back to 1985, when I saw Brother From Another Planet at the Egyptian Theater. For many years, I just saw an occasional film when the festival was in town. One year, I took my daughter and friends to Main Street, where they wanted to look for celebrities. It was quite funny when Johnny Depp walked right by them without them recognizing him. I did point him out before he was out of sight.

In 2012, I applied to be a signup volunteer. That changed everything. Volunteering places you into a group of people that quickly become family; some of the people working at the library with me still volunteer there. Wherever we see each other, we greet each other like old friends. It doesn’t matter which position you work—one year, I had to make announcements in the tent without a bullhorn. One of the other volunteers, an actress, taught me exercises to increase my volume. (FYI: They worked.) Volunteering gives you perks, like parties and screenings just for volunteers. I discovered documentaries during these screenings.

Many of the films included at SFF don’t make it into wide release. This is especially

true for documentaries, no matter how good they are. If you catch a movie during its premiere, the director or stars may answer questions from the audience. Some of those films can change lives or highlight just what really happened in the past.

2013 turned out to be especially memorable. As a local volunteer, I was invited to participate in the creation of the Volunteer Appreciation Short. From the back, I happened to look like the actress who filmed a segment for it in New York, so I found myself with a small part, rushing off with a badge on the way towards Main Street. I was about to start my first shift when I received a phone call that my mother had a heart attack and was on her way to the hospital in Germany. The SFF staff couldn’t have been more helpful; I checked out, headed home, and was on the next flight to Germany within hours. I missed my big-screen debut but did make it to the hospital before my panicked sister, who has Down syndrome, had to spend the night there alone.

My Sundance family from 2012 returned to stay at my place before the festival started in 2014. They came from France, California, and Australia. That week, I hosted three more SFF volunteers from Seattle, Chicago, and New York, as well as the writer of the musical Fela!, who invited me to their private celebration with performances from the musical. It was magical. One of those volunteers was Devon Edwards, a Volunteer

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of the Year winner a few years later, and another was Carl Henderson, who has since joined me in Park City. I volunteered during the summer labs as well, some of which are expected to remain in Utah. This is where I met Cheryl Soshnik, another Volunteer of the Year winner, and Kevin Kane, who are now some of my closest friends.

Events and categories come and go, but I enjoyed many of the panels at the festivals. Most are free to the general public and take place at venues such as The Box at The Ray, which is in the basement of the The Ray Theater.

For a while, SFF was a hotbed for new technology. New ways of telling stories appeared every year. When Oculus Rift came out, I virtually attended an EDM concert in Las Vegas. Another year, I wandered through a Syrian market when a missile struck. In 2020, I took off in a rocket wearing a headset and flotation devices while suspended in the pool of the SFF headquarters. Main Street has hosted companies presenting virtual experiences free to the public and panels if you preregister online, such as the anniversary celebrations of movies like Napoleon Dynamite, which handed out free tater tots from a food truck in 2024.

As a volunteer, I have talked to stars such as John Lithgow and the climber/directors of Meru. As a reporter, I’ve interviewed directors, stars, and film subjects. Don’t miss this chance to enjoy some of the films, events, and celebrations this coming year.

Volunteer applications can be found on SFF’s website, where packages for locals will be offered for the 2026 SFF. If the past is any indication, free events will still be available.

Website: festival.sundance.org

REAL ESTATE PULSE © Best Version Media

As the Wasatch back starts to shift into its autumn glow, we (the Hudgens & Harrison Team) wanted to share a quick pulse on the real estate market—and also thank everyone who joined us for our First Annual Western & Whiskey Party!

THE MARKET:

Sales volumes are up: Single-family transactions rose ~19%, and condo sales saw similar growth.

Luxury prices hold steady: Highend neighborhoods like Deer Valley and Snyderville Basin dominate with seven-figure and multi-million-dollar sales.

Park City remains a resilient resortdriven luxury market, characterized by strong demand and cash-oriented buyers, making it a preferred choice for first and second homes, vacation rentals, and long-term investors. Park City’s real estate in 2025 remains robust— especially in the luxury condo and ski-accessible segments—with rising prices and competitive dynamics, offering something for everyone.

LET'S PARTY:

We had a blast hosting our First Annual Western & Whiskey Party—and we’re already counting down to our next event. We loved partnering with Relevant Galleries to host an unforgettable evening with our clients and friends. Huge thanks to Kemo Sabe and High West for their partnership, turning a summer soiree into the biggest bash on Main Street.

With a live DJ, whiskey tastings, gourmet bites, and great company, the evening was a celebration of everything we love about the Park City lifestyle: elevated yet authentic, social yet grounded, and always just a little bit Western.

Thanks to all who came out to support us, connect with the community, and raise a glass. It was a pleasure to catch up with clients, friends, and fellow locals. Want to join us at our next VIP event? We’re already planning the next bash, and our guest list fills up fast. If you’d like to be included, reach out to the Hudgens & Harrison Team to get on the list!

Whether you're thinking of making a move or just want to talk shop over lunch or coffee,

ALL IN FOR YOU.

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 2025. 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!

With appreciation, The Hudgens & Harrison Team Local. Experienced. Invested.

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.

Gretchen Hudgens 435-901-1015

Insta: @gretchenhudgens Gretchen@winutah.com

Lacy Harrison 858-525-3434

Insta: @lacykharrison Lacy@winutah.com

Lacy

Gretchen

don’t hesitate to reach out. We love helping people navigate this unique, dynamic market— and we’re grateful to be your trusted resource here in Park City.

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FEATURED PROPERTIES:

543 Park Avenue

12 beds 15 bath s11,763 SF

This historic limestone building, built in 1889, has served as a school, dance hall, B&B, and boutique hotel. It offers versatile living options, with charming rooms, private pools, and a prime location near Main Street and ski trails. An exceptional opportunity to own a unique Park City landmark.

LEARN MORE ABOUT DEXA SCANS WITH DR. SPENSER REED

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3 beds 4 baths 2,635 SF

This spacious 3-bedroom, 4-bath townhome near the mountains offers luxury and comfort with an open kitchen and living area, high-end finishes, natural light, and a versatile bonus room. Perfect for relaxation, entertaining, and outdoor adventures, it embodies convenient mountain living without compromise.

Full-Service Interior Design:

• NEW CONSTRUCTION

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AND HOSPITALITY

Interested in our interior design services? Have questions or inquiries about what we offer?

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

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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Buck Horn Trail, 50a

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BY NATALIE TAYLOR

RAD IN THE WASATCH

Riding High

From the beaches of Southern California to the saddle: How horses helped Kate Lockhart find her true north

Wind tangled in her hair, hooves pounding the sand, and waves crashing nearby—this was Kate Lockhart’s idea of freedom as a young girl in Palos Verdes, California. Although she grew up near the ocean, she always felt a pull to something wilder, something quieter, something that smelled like leather and hay. Today, you’ll find her living in the rugged beauty of Kamas, Utah, running Garnet Spur Equestrian and leading the English riding program at High Star Ranch.

Kate’s journey started early. At just eight years old, she begged for riding lessons. Her father, a logical-minded immigrant, said yes—with a catch. “He told me I had to research everything,” Kate recalls with a smile. “So, I mapped out distances, called numbers in the Yellow Pages, and made him a plan.” He agreed—her father’s challenge set Kate on a path that would shape her future.

By the age of ten Kate was already a standout, competing on the prestigious A Circuit and collecting championship ribbons up and down the West Coast. And while horses were her passion, she didn’t know they would ultimately become her career.

In 1988, she moved to Utah for college, earning degrees in human biology and exercise physiology, only to tuck them away and dive into a corporate career as a software programmer. Still, the horses never left her heart. “I’d go barn to barn asking if anyone needed help,” she says. “I had to keep my job because riding is expensive. But anytime I could ride, I jumped on the opportunity.”

young

Word of her natural talent spread. Soon, riders were seeking her out— not just for her technique, but for her overall approach and calm demeanor. “Maybe the horse wasn’t jumping, or the rider was anxious… whatever it was, I helped,” she says. After 30 years, she made the leap. Kate left corporate America behind and opened Garnet Spur Equestrian full time.

“It was the best decision of my life,” she says. “The barn is my sanctuary. In a world that’s so noisy, this is where I find peace. I’ve never raised my voice at a horse, or a human, while coaching.”

Her approach is rooted in the traditional English disciplines of Hunters, Jumpers, and Equitation—each requiring a subtle dance between horse and rider. For years she traveled as a freelance trainer. But in 2025, she accepted the role of Head English Trainer at High Star Ranch.

“High Star is a dream,” she says. “The Foreman family has built something special here. Now I have access to Western trainers, trail rides, even chuckwagons. Some of my students shift to Western if they don’t want to jump. Not everyone loves the adrenaline of flying over a jump—they want their horse’s hooves firmly planted on the ground.”

Her clients range from weekend riders to competitive hopefuls. “I train champions. I want to see you on a podium at the Olympics if that’s your goal,” she says. “But I also care about your emotional wellbeing. This sport is about more than precision—it’s

about connection. You’re not working with a machine. You’re working with a living, feeling being.”

Kate doesn’t follow a cookie-cutter lesson plan. “Every rider is different. I feel their energy and if I do, so does the horse, so I shift the plan for the day.” she says. “Because the horses will pick up on it. They mirror us.” That intuition is part of what makes Kate one of the most unique trainers in the region.

From personal experience, Kate knows if she needs support, the horses carry her. “I love my husband and daughters beyond words. But the bond with a horse is different,” she says softly. “When I’ve gone through heartbreak, it was a horse who knew. No words—just a head on my shoulder, a nudge, a breath. These giant, powerful animals offer this quiet, unspoken comfort. It’s sacred.”

In Kate Lockhart’s world, horses are more than just animals. They’re partners, healers, and teachers. Those fortunate enough to ride with her are offered a unique opportunity to reconnect, not only with the horse, but with themselves.

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Kate Lockhart competing on the prestigious A Circuit.

Kate Lockhart at one of her early

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Align Spa’s Legacy in Park City OUR TOWN STORIES

Within Park City’s vibrant community, Align Spa has become one of the area’s most trusted and beloved wellness businesses. Co-owned by Amy Asherman and Calli Sorensen, the spa is more than just a place for massages and facials—it’s a community hub, a place of connection, and a testament to the power of longevity and local roots.

A Commitment to Community

Amy, a massage therapist and nurse, has been with Align since the very beginning in 2003. Calli joined the team in 2006 and, like Amy, brings years of therapeutic experience to the table. Together, they’ve shaped Align Spa into what it is today—a welcoming, grounded space with a deep sense of purpose.

“Park City is incredibly unique,” Amy reflects on the support they have received from the community. “Even as big as it’s gotten, it still has a very local vibe to it. Community is really important here. I grew up here. I have roots here. There just isn’t anything like Park City.”

Align Spa’s commitment to its community is perhaps most evident in its membership program launched in 2008. With nearly 600 active members, the spa has become a regular monthly ritual for many residents.

Aligning Connection With Care

Calli reflected on one long-time client that has been visiting the spa since before her daughter was born—now that daughter is about to graduate high school. Seeing familiar faces and clients recognize each other while waiting in the lounge, is part of what makes the experience at Align Spa so unique.

The same goes for their team. Many of their massage therapists and estheticians have been with Align for nearly two decades, creating continuity and trust for every guest who walks through their doors.

“Answering the phone and knowing someone’s kids’ names, where they go to school, or when they’re getting married or having a baby— it’s just such a fun experience,” Calli says.

“You don’t get that in a lot of places—to see clients and business owners at the grocery store— it just feels good,” she shared.

Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, Align Spa welcomes you with warmth, experience, and a genuine sense of belonging. And in a town that continues to grow and evolve, Align remains rooted in what matters most: community, connection, and true Mountainkind care.

BY NICHOLE DREYER, AUTUMN BEAR WELLNESS COLLECTIVE

Your Gut Is Basically a Tiny, Chaotic Dictator and It's Controlling Your Mood, Energy, and Cravings

Let’s start with a mildly horrifying truth: you are not alone in your own body. Right now, you’re hosting trillions—yes, trillions— of microbes in your gut. They’re digesting your food, sending signals to your brain, influencing your mood, regulating your hormones, and possibly deciding whether you’re in the mood for a salad or an entire box of cookies.

This bustling microscopic community is called your gut microbiome, and science is only just beginning to grasp how much power it holds over your everyday life.

First, the basics. Your microbiome is made up of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, most of them good, some of them sketchy. When they’re in balance, they help you digest food, produce vitamins, support your immune system, and even manage inflammation. When they’re out of balance (a state called dysbiosis), things start to go sideways: bloating, fatigue, skin issues, food cravings, brain fog, and a suspicious tendency to cry at dog food commercials.

But it goes deeper than digestion. Thanks to the gut-brain axis, a literal communication superhighway between your gut and your central nervous system, your microbiome can influence neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine—aka the chemicals that help you feel happy, calm, focused, and motivated. In fact, around 90% of serotonin is produced in the gut. So if your gut is grumpy, there’s a good chance your mood will be too.

Ever crashed after a sugar high, or felt irrationally angry when you're hungry (a.k.a. “hangry”)? That’s because your gut bugs are partly to blame. Some species of bacteria love sugar and can actually influence your

cravings to get more of it. Others help you metabolize nutrients in ways that support steady energy and mental clarity. It’s like having a very opinionated committee living inside you, and they vote constantly.

The wildest part? Your microbial landscape is shaped by everything from birth (vaginal birth vs. C-section), to if you were breast fed as a baby or fed formula, to antibiotic use, to stress levels, sleep, and diet. And while no one’s gut is perfect, there are ways to keep yours happier. Which by extension, keeps you happier.

Science-backed steps to boost your gut health aren’t complicated or woo-woo. Each individual is different and it would be wise to seek the guidance of a health professional with experience in taming the gut microbiome when it’s out of control. Some good guidelines to start with are making sure you are getting enough fiber at least 20 grams per day. Include fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi, or sauerkraut, avoid unnecessary antibiotics, reduce chronic stress, and eat a diverse, whole-foods-based

AUTUMN BEAR WELLNESS COLLECTIVE

Feel Well. Be Well. Live Well

With a dedicated team of MDs and acupuncturists specializing in chronic disease management, functional aging, pain management, and longevity, 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.

organic diet. Basically: treat your gut like a high-maintenance pet. Feed it well, avoid yelling at it, and it will reward you.

Researchers are even exploring microbiome links to conditions like anxiety, autoimmune diseases, and Alzheimer’s. We're only scratching the surface, but one thing’s clear, your gut isn’t just a passive tube where burritos go to die. It’s a dynamic, decisionmaking force that shapes everything from your metabolism to your mental health.

So next time you’re feeling off, don’t just blame Mercury retrograde or your ex. Consider what’s going on in your gut. Your microbes might just be trying to tell you something!

Interested in learning more? Come join our local wellness platform Health Punk, that blends science, irreverence, and ancient Chinese medicine to help people reclaim their health from the inside out. We believe gut health should feel empowering, creative and yes, even fun! You can take our fun gut personality quiz on our instagram page @hlthpnk

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

SundayFunday:

The Family Reset That Makes Mondays Feel Lighter

If you live in Park City, you probably experience the strange tug between the dopamine of weekend mountain bliss and Monday dread. Maybe you spent the day biking or hiking, but as the sun dips behind the Wasatch, that “oh boy, another week ahead” feeling creeps in.

What if, instead of winding down with anticipation, you used Sunday night to set a lighter, happier tone for the whole family? Enter: the magic of the Sunday Funday Family Reset. It’s not about perfection or turning a family member (mom?) into a drill sergeant - military command center style - it’s about connection, preparation, and making space for fun before the week takes off.

HERE’S HOW IT WORKS.

Start with Dinner Everyone Loves

Forget the groans when you ask “what should we make for dinner?” and pick something interactive. These are guaranteed crowdpleasers for ages 1 to 99:

▶ DIY Taco Bar – Let everyone pile on their own toppings.

▶ Mini Pita Pizzas – Personalize and bake in under 10 minutes.

▶ Build-Your-Bowl Night – Quinoa or rice, protein, colorful veggies, and a sauce to bring it together – bonus points if each member cuts a veggie & makes a sauce to share.

▶ Pasta & Salad Party – Make it a “Top Chef” plating contest.

▶ Breakfast for Dinner – Pancakes, fruit salad, and a veggie scramble.

Interactive meals keep everyone engaged, fueled, and having fun!

Share Your High, Low, Buffalo

While you’re around the table, invite each person to share their “high” , their “low”, and their “buffalo” (something off the wall or random) of the week. The buffalo keeps it fun and funny, and you can even make it a game by making the buffalo something that could or could not have actually happened. The rest of the family can buy in or call BS.

To keep it fresh, add in prompts like:

▶ Something that surprised you this week…

▶ One thing you’re looking forward to…

These little check-ins are more than conversation starters — they’re an excuse to

set down the devices and check in on how everyone’s really doing.

Batch Prep Lunches for the WeekFamily Style

This is where Sunday Funday becomes Monday magic. Spend 20–30 minutes prepping ingredients for school or work lunches – everyone will be thankful later and you may be surprised by how peaceful mornings become:

▶ Chop cucumber, carrots, and bell peppers into snack bags.

▶ Portion trail mix, popcorn, or granola.

▶ Boil eggs, cook chicken for wraps, or make hummus and guac.

▶ Assemble quick grabs like turkey and

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veggie pinwheels, Greek yogurt parfait jars, or snack boxes with fruit, protein, and a small treat.

Now the frigde is freshly stocked and you’ve shaved precious minutes off every morning.

The 15-Minute Family Clean Sweep

Chores don’t have to feel like drudgery — especially if you set a timer and make it a game. Everyone gets a task that fits their age:

▶ Ages 1-5: Pick up toys, play with the pets

▶ Ages 5–7: Match socks, water plants, wipe low surfaces

▶ Ages 8–10: Load the dishwasher, set the table, fold laundry

▶ Ages 11–15: Vacuum, wipe windows, organize their room

Put on an upbeat playlist and see if you can finish before the timer dings. Create a TikTok-worthy celebration dance when everyone’s done.

Close with Music and a Moment

End the evening with a family playlist and a little kitchen dance party. You’ll burn off that last bit of Sunday energy, and everyone heads to bed in a better mood.

The Point Isn’t Perfection

Some Sundays will feel Pinterest-worthy,

others may not go exactly as planned. Either way, the intention of a focused reset is about more than tacos and clean counters. It’s about connection, small wins, and making the start of the week more peaceful and manageable.

You can find more everyday routines and weekly rituals at FreeLivingCo.co - Clean

Complete Fertility Care For Aspiring Families in Utah

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

OUR SERVICES:

• An On-Site, Cutting-edge Embryology Lab

• Fertility Diagnostics Testing

• IVF Care

• Intrauterine Insemination

• Fertility Preservation

• Wrap-around Support Services Like Yoga, Acupuncture, Mental Health Care, Support Groups, and Nutrition Classes

• Now Accepting New Patients

Living for Real Life. Free Living Co is a brand and marketplace designed to be your go-to destination for expertly curated products that make clean living and everyday well-being simple—and more fun. Visit the retail shop in Kimball Junction at Newpark Blvd & Center Dr, between Cupla & Newpark Resort.

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Revitalize for Fall: Boost Skin Vitality with BioCARE® Treatment

By Dr. Giselle M. Batcheller, DDS, IBDM

As summer fades into fall, our skin often tells the story of a season well spent. Sunshine, sweat, sunscreen, and mountain air - all essential parts of life in Park City - can leave skin looking a little tired, dry, or uneven. September is the perfect time to reset and replenish.

That’s where BioCARE® comes in. Our signature regenerative skin protocol is designed to restore radiance and resilience using your body’s own healing power.

Why Post-Summer Skin Needs Extra Care

Even when we’re diligent with SPF, long summer days can dehydrate the skin, accelerate collagen loss, and cause subtle signs of damage; like fine lines, dullness, or uneven tone. The transition to cooler weather can also make skin feel tight or depleted. Rather than covering it up or jumping to synthetic solutions, BioCARE® helps your skin repair and renew naturally.

What Is BioCARE®?

• Laser Treatments gently resurface the skin, improve tone and texture, and boost natural collagen. They’re ideal this time of year, when UV levels drop and skin is primed for renewal.

• PRF is a concentrated blend of growth factors drawn from your own blood. Applied topically or injected, it stimulates healing, hydrates deeply, and helps restore skin elasticity.

• Biofiller®, made from PRF, adds volume where you’ve lost it; especially under the eyes, around the mouth, or in the cheeks. Unlike synthetic fillers, biofiller nourishes your skin while giving an immediate refreshed appearance.

Together, these treatments create a personalized, layered approach that restores your skin’s natural vitality over time.

Why September Is the Sweet Spot

Late summer is the ideal time to begin BioCARE®. You’re likely spending less time in direct sun, routines are returning to normal, and your skin is ready to shift into recovery mode. Starting now builds resilience for the drier, colder months ahead while giving you visible, glowing results you’ll notice sooner than you think.

Whether you’re aiming to soften fine lines, improve tone, or simply give your skin a post-summer reset, BioCARE® offers a natural, effective path to feeling radiant in your own skin.

Ready to renew? Virtual consultations are available online through DrBatcheller.com.

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.

DR. GISELLE M. BATCHELLER

WORLD-RENOWNED FACIAL

AESTHETICS PRACTICE IN UTAH

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HEALTH & WELLNESS CORNER

EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR • BY DR. RENATO SALTZ, MD FACS, FOUNDER & MEDICAL DIRECTOR • PHOTO BY

THE BENEFITS OF A MEDSPA LED BY A PLASTIC SURGEON

WHERE BEAUTY

Face, Neck, And Brow Lifts

Neograft Hair Transplant

Body & Breast Surgeries

Dysport/Botox

Microneedling RF

Sofwave Skin Tightening

BBL Laser Resurfacing

Body Contouring with Sculpt & Coolsculpt

Medical Weight Loss and so much more...

H i, I’m Dr. Renato Saltz. As a board-certified plastic surgeon who genuinely cares about helping you look and feel your best, I believe a medspa, overseen by a qualified doctor, offers unmatched advantages. When you visit us, you're not just getting treatments— you’re receiving personalized, safe care from someone who understands both the art and science of aesthetics.

WHY CHOOSE A MEDSPA RUN BY A PLASTIC SURGEON?

Having a plastic surgeon like me involved means everything is done with the highest safety standards and attention to detail. With decades of experience in facial rejuvenation, body contouring, and breast surgery, I bring that same level of precision to non-invasive treatments. You can trust that every procedure is performed with care and expertise.

FULL-SPECTRUM, PERSONALIZED CARE

Our medspa offers a full range of treatments tailored to your specific goals. Our team listens carefully to your needs and crafts customized solutions that look natural. Whether it’s gentle skin rejuvenation or more advanced procedures, you’ll receive caring, expert guidance.

OUR CARING TEAM

EXPLORE SALTZ PLASTIC SURGERY & SPA VITORIA

Our highly trained, licensed, and certified staff work under my supervision to ensure every treatment is safe and effective. We’ve created a calm, elegant environment where you can feel comfortable and confident. Our goal is for every visit to be positive, convenient, and welcoming.

STAYING AHEAD WITH INNOVATION

As a pioneer in endoscopic surgery, I continually seek the latest advancements in aesthetic medicine. This means our patients benefit from advanced treatments that deliver beautiful, safe natural results. It’s all about helping you look refreshed while maintaining your natural beauty.

YOUR TRANSFORMATION STARTS HERE

Choosing a medspa supervised by a plastic surgeon means safety and results you can trust. My team and I are here to guide you, whether through surgery, injectables, or skincare. Our focus is on helping you look and feel your best.

If you’re in Salt Lake City or Park City, experience the difference personalized, expert care can make. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. We look forward to meeting you.

Staff Spotlight:

TARA THOMPSON, RN

Cosmetic Injector

Follow her on Instagram: @injectortararn

Meet Tara Thompson, our experienced Cosmetic Nurse Injector with 18 years at Saltz Plastic Surgery. She specializes in naturallooking results with Botox, Dysport, fillers, and bio-stimulators. Tara truly listens to her patients, creating customized treatments that enhance your natural beauty. A proud member of ASPSN, she treats everyone like a friend. Outside the office, Tara loves spending time with her family and connecting with those around her.

DEB DEKOFF

The Art of Letting Go Welcoming the Metal Element in Autumn

As September arrives and the air begins to cool, we transition into a new season - one of reflection, refinement, and release. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), autumn is governed by the metal element, which asks us to let go of what no longer serves and return to what is essential.

Just as trees shed their leaves, we are invited to shed emotional heaviness, old patterns, and mental clutter. This isn’t about loss - it’s about making space for clarity, breath, and aligned living.

Autumn and the Metal Element

In Chinese Medicine, the lungs and large intestine are the organs of the metal element. The lungs help us take in inspiration and vitality through breath. The large intestine governs elimination - helping us release what’s unnecessary, both physically and emotionally.

Metal also carries the emotion of griefthe sacred process of honoring what has changed, ended, or been lost. Whether you’re grieving a loved one, a former version of yourself, a chapter of life, or simply feeling the weight of what’s happening in the world, autumn is the season to acknowledge and soften into those emotions with compassion.

Common Signs of Imbalance in Autumn:

• Dry skin, throat, or cough

• Allergies or lung congestion

• Low immunity or frequent colds

• Constipation or sluggish digestion

• Feelings of sadness, grief, or isolation

How Acupuncture and TCM Help: Acupuncture helps bring the body into harmony with the season by:

• Strengthening Lung Qi and boosting immune defenses (Wei Qi)

• Supporting healthy elimination and detoxification

• Calming the nervous system and helping the body process grief

• Promoting clarity, breath, and emotional regulation

Herbal medicine is also used to support seasonal transitions. One classic formula to boost immunity during Autumn is Yu Ping Feng San (Jade Windscreen Powder). This gentle, time-tested remedy strengthens Lung Qi and protective Wei Qi to help reduce susceptibility to colds, flus, and allergies. Always consult a licensed practitioner to find the right herbal support for you.

Simple Ways to Support Yourself at Home:

• Eat moistening, seasonal foods: Think: pears, daikon, oats, rice, honey, and warming spices like ginger or cinnamon.

• Breathe deeply and often: The lungs thrive with breath. Try a 4-4-4-4 box breath to clear the mind and open the chest.

• Clear space: Organize a drawer or donate what you no longer use. Creating space in your environment invites clarity within.

• Protect your neck: In TCM, cold wind enters through the back of the neck. A scarf is your best friend this time of year.

• Try acupressure at Lung 1: Located under the collarbone near the shoulder, this point helps open the chest and support emotional release.

Seasonal Remedy Spotlight:

Garlic Ginger Broth for Early Colds

At the first sign of a chill, scratchy throat, or body aches, try this warming remedy to support immunity and help your body sweat out the early stages of a cold.

Ingredients:

• 2–3 cloves fresh garlic, crushed

• 2–3 slices fresh ginger

• 2 cups water

• Optional: pinch of sea salt or squeeze of lemon

Method:

Simmer garlic and ginger in water for 10–15 minutes. Strain and sip slowly while warm. Wrap yourself in a blanket to encourage gentle sweating, then rest.

Optional: Add a spoonful of raw honey after straining (once the tea has cooled slightly) to soothe the throat and gently nourish the lungs. Avoid it if you have a sore throat with heat or phlegm.

This broth helps open the pores, support Lung Qi, and gently clear pathogens in the early stage of a cold.

Autumn reminds us that healing often begins with letting go. When we create space, we make room for new inspiration and deeper alignment. If you’re navigating emotional change, feeling stuck, or want to boost your immune system before winter, acupuncture can offer profound support.

Let this be the season you exhale. Love, Dr. Kallie

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

TRAIN SMARTER, RECOVER FASTER:

THE TEEN ATHLETE’S EDGE AT WOW

Fall sports are here!

Wasatch’s young athletes train hard in the off-season, conditioning their growing bodies to perform at their best on game day. But with intense training comes the risk of injury, especially from overuse, improper technique, inadequate warm-ups or cool-downs, and the unique physical demands of each sport.

Young athletes are particularly vulnerable to injuries around growth plates as their bodies are still developing. While rest, ice, and elevation remain important, athletes at Wasatch have access to advanced tools for both peak performance and recovery. Bryant Salmon PA-C, one of the qualified practitioners at Wasatch Optimal Wellness (WOW), has 10 years of orthopedic experience (5 of those being in sports medicine), as well as 5 years in urgent care where he also did management of acute orthopedic injuries and concussions. Enhanced treatments like hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), heat/cold contrast therapy, IV infusions, and VO₂ max testing alongside insight from highly qualified practitioners, help young competitors stay at the top of their game and bounce back faster.

HBOT is increasingly used as a treatment for sports injuries in teen athletes, offering potential benefits like reduced inflammation, faster healing, and quicker return to play. HBOT involves breathing 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which increases oxygen levels in the body and promotes healing.

How HBOT Helps Teen Athletes:

▶ Reduces Inflammation and Pain

▶ Accelerates Healing & Improved Tissue Repair

▶ Shortens Recovery Time

▶ May Improve Cognitive Function (Concussions)

▶ Reduces Risk of Re-Injury

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

• Cold Plunge

Dry and Infrared Saunas

Hyperbaric

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Considerations for Teen Athletes:

HBOT protocols, including duration and frequency of treatments, should be tailored to the specific injury and the individual athlete's needs. The qualified practitioners at WOW will oversee all treatment plans to ensure safety and that the needs of the athlete are met.

The Benefits of Combining Cold and Heat Therapies

Contrast therapy—alternating between hot and cold temperatures—is a powerful tool for recovery, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall wellness. At WOW, a popular approach includes time in the infrared or dry sauna, followed by a rinse, a short rest, and a plunge into the cold tubs. This temperature contrast stimulates circulation, boosts the immune system, and helps reduce muscle soreness. It’s also been shown to relieve stress, improve sleep quality, and enhance overall well-being. Incorporating contrast therapy into your athlete’s conditioning and recovery routine at WOW can leave them feeling rejuvenated, energized, and ready for the next game.

IV Therapy: A Game-Changer for Teen Athletes

For teen athletes pushing their limits in training and competition, recovery and performance support are essential. IV therapy at WOW offers a fast, effective way to deliver hydration, electrolytes, and vital nutrients directly into the bloodstream—helping young athletes bounce back faster and perform at their best.

Unlike oral supplements or sports drinks, IV therapy allows for immediate absorption, meaning the body can replenish fluids, restore energy, and repair muscles more efficiently. After intense practices, long tournaments, or back-to-back games, this targeted recovery tool can reduce fatigue, minimize muscle soreness, and even support immune health—keeping teen athletes strong, focused, and ready for more.

At WOW, each IV session starts with a health history review conducted by a licensed provider to ensure safety and the right treatment for every athlete. Supervised by experienced nursing staff, the 30–45 minute therapy session takes place in a comfortable setting—complete with massage chairs—making recovery feel like self-care, not a chore.

With a variety of athletic-focused drips available, including options for: hydration, immunity, muscle recovery, and vitamin support, IV therapy at WOW offers a personalized boost for growing bodies under pressure.

Take Your Training to the Next Level with VO₂ Max and RMR Testing at WOW

Whether you're grinding through soccer practices, pushing your limits in cross country, or just want to get faster, stronger, and more efficient, VO₂ Max and Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) testing at WOW can give you the edge.

VO₂ Max testing shows how well your body uses oxygen during intense exercise, a major factor in endurance and performance. It tells you

exactly what heart rate zones to train in, your true anaerobic threshold, and how to work smarter, not harder.

What to expect:

You’ll run or bike while wearing a mask that measures your breathing, heart rate, and oxygen use. A WOW clinician will guide the whole session. (Don’t forget your favorite hype music!)

Gaining this valuable data will help you create personalized training zones, track your endurance progress and avoid burnout by training more efficiently.

RMR testing shows how many calories your body burns at rest so you can build smarter nutrition plans, avoid under-fueling, and better support muscle gain or fat loss. It’s perfect for athletes working toward big goals. No more mindless, calorie-absent snacking.

Want to go even further? Pair your VO₂ and RMR tests with a DEXA scan for a full-body analysis of muscle, fat, and bone density.

At WOW, it’s not just about recovery, it's about performance. With the team's vast experience in working with hundreds of patients with knee, shoulder, elbow, ankle, and other sports injuries, you can be assured you’re receiving care from a well qualified team. From IV therapy and hyperbaric oxygen to contrast therapy and joint injections, Bryant Salmon PA-C, Dr Ben Fogg MD, Meredith Salmon RN-BSN, and the rest of the team have tools to help your athlete train harder, recover smarter, and compete at their best. Go Wasatch Wasps!

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

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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!

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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.

© Best Version Media

your inner badass through mindful movement in nature:

Training for Life’s Everyday Adventures

Custom Outdoor Fitness Experiences

Functional Fitness Training

Corporate and Group Events

Mind/Body Connection

Hybrid/ Remote Coaching

In Home Nature Inspired Movement Sessions

… in Park City, Utah and Beyond

Prenatal Yoga Series

• Prepare your body and mind for birth with a gentle and informational practice.

• Mondays, 5:30–6:30 p.m. on

• September 8, 15, 22 & 29

Childbirth Education Workshop

• Gain confidence and learn skills for navigating labor and birth with calmness and clarity.

• Friday, October 3, 5–8 p.m. & Saturday, October 4, 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Postpartum & Newborn Care Class

• Learn practical skills for newborn care and breastfeeding while supporting your recovery and finding your rhythm in early motherhood.

• Saturday, September 27, 9:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Why join these sessions?

As a certified holistic birth and postpartum doula, health coach, and perinatal yoga therapist, Erin combines evidence-based education with compassionate, hands-on support to guide you through pregnancy, birth, and the early weeks of motherhood—helping you feel informed, supported, and confident every step of the way.

Interested in personalized care?

Schedule a free consultation to explore customized perinatal support packages that align with your needs.

BY ERIN SEAMONS, EARTHY ERIN

THE HEAVY LIFTING ON HORMONES

As women navigate perimenopause and menopause, prioritizing strength training and resistance exercise becomes far more than a fitness choice—it’s essential medicine. And while we can’t stop or control how or when this transition may occur, we can influence how we experience it. At the heart of this transformation lies the muscular system, a powerhouse not merely for movement, but as a central player in endocrine regulation and hormone function.

The muscular system plays a far greater role in our health than most people realize. Skeletal muscle isn’t just for movement— it’s also a key part of the endocrine system. As Dr. Gabrielle Lyon, founder of MuscleCentric Medicine®, explains, muscle acts as the body’s largest endocrine organ, releasing biochemical messengers called myokines during contraction. These myokines help regulate metabolism, improve insulin sensitivity, support bone health, and even influence brain function.

Muscle makes up roughly 40% of our body mass and is the main site for glucose uptake, which helps keep blood sugar stable and inflammation low. This becomes especially important during perimenopause, when estrogen levels drop and muscle mass naturally begins to decline. Without intervention, this can lead to increased belly fat, reduced bone density, and greater risk of insulin resistance—all of which can

contribute to common symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, joint pain, brain fog, and fatigue.

The good news? Preserving and building lean muscle can directly reduce or even eliminate many of these challenges. Improved insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control can help stabilize temperature regulation, making hot flashes and night sweats less frequent or intense. A higher resting metabolic rate makes it easier to maintain a healthy weight. Myokines support neurotransmitter production, which helps stabilize mood and sharpen mental clarity. Resistance training strengthens bones and connective tissue, protects joint health, improves sleep quality, and boosts daily energy by supporting mitochondrial function.

Getting started with strength training doesn’t have to be complicated. Choose the setting that feels most sustainable for you—this could be a gym with free weights or machines, at home with dumbbells or resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups. Group classes can be a great option if you enjoy structure and accountability.

Focus on compound movements—exercises that work multiple muscle groups at once— such as squats or sit-to-stands, deadlifts or hip hinges, push-ups, rows, and overhead presses. These movements are efficient, functional, and highly effective for building

strength. Two to three full-body training sessions per week is an excellent starting point. In each session, aim for five to seven exercises, performing two to three sets of each, and working until you feel challenged while maintaining good form. Want to know if you’re doing it right? Hint: It shouldn’t be easy, but you shouldn’t feel like you’ve completely overdone it either. Monitor your recovery for signs that your’e over or undertraining.

Nutrition is just as important as the workouts themselves. A protein-forward diet—around 30–50 grams of high-quality protein at each meal (4-5 meals per day)—provides the building blocks your muscles need to repair and grow.

If you’re new to strength training, consider seeking guidance from a personal trainer, a small-group program, or a beginnerfriendly class to learn proper form and build confidence. Many professionals also offer virtual coaching, making it easier to start from home.

Bottom line – In perimenopause, muscle is more than strength—it’s an active, hormonesupporting, metabolism-regulating system that can dramatically influence how you feel day to day. By making strength training a regular part of your routine now, you can ease symptoms, protect your long-term health, and step into this stage of life with resilience and vitality.

BY RACHEL ELBERTS

Rewild Your Routine: HOW NATURE-BASED MOVEMENT CAN SNAP YOU OUT OF A FITNESS RUT

You know that feeling when your workouts start to feel like a chore? When your body’s just going through the motions, your mind is somewhere else, and the motivation that once felt natural has vanished?

Here’s a truth I’ve come to believe deeply: when we’re stuck in a fitness rut, what we need isn’t a stricter routine or a shinier gym. What we really need is a change in rhythm—and more often than not, that rhythm lives outside.

There’s something wildly effective about taking your movement into nature. I’m not just talking about hiking for cardio or adding a few trail runs to your week. I’m talking about moving intentionally—with awareness, presence, and purpose—among the trees, under the sky, alongside the sound of wind or water. It’s not about performance. It’s about reconnection.

In Park City, we’re lucky to be surrounded by trails that double as therapists, forests that act as reset buttons, and peaks that put our mental loops into perspective. But so many of us forget to use these places as more than backdrops for a step count or Strava segment.

Intentional movement in nature invites us to move differently—more slowly, more curiously, more mindfully. And in doing so, it helps shake us out of the repetitive, push-hard-or-go-home mentality that often leads to burnout or stagnation.

For example, one of my favorite practices is what I call a “Wonder Walk.” It’s a slow, tech-free walk with no playlist, no pressure, just the goal of noticing—your breath, your pace, the color of the leaves, the way your body feels as it navigates roots and rocks. Sometimes I add a theme like “what do I need to release?” or “what do I want to call in?” and let the answers rise while I move.

Other times, I’ll bring intention to a hike or outdoor strength session by setting a clear tone beforehand: Today I’m moving to remember I’m capable. Today I’m moving to shift my mood. Today I’m moving to feel free.

When we tie our movement to how we want to feel instead of how we want to look, something clicks. The rut cracks open. And we’re reminded that movement isn’t punishment—it’s liberation.

I’ve worked with countless clients who were burnt out on fitness routines. The spark was gone. But once we took the work outside— whether it was bodyweight circuits at the trailhead, mindfulnessbased runs, or functional strength training in the park—the joy returned. They weren’t just checking off a workout. They were participating in something bigger, something alive.

Movement in nature isn’t just physical—it’s energetic. It rewires the way we approach fitness altogether. We become more attuned, more playful, more open to progress that’s not linear but layered.

So if you’re feeling uninspired or stuck in your workouts, consider this your invitation to step outside. Rewild your routine. Move not for metrics, but for meaning.

Let the mountains remind you: you don’t need a restart button—you just need to move differently.

You don’t have to go far. A walk on the Rail Trail, a bodyweight flow at Round Valley, or even a snowshoe through your favorite backyard loop will do. Add a little intention, a little breath, and you’ll be surprised how quickly the rut turns into a rhythm again.

BY CHRISTA JUTRAS,

FINDING YOUR ESTHETICIAN: GREEN FLAGS THAT GO BEYOND SKIN DEEP

In a world overflowing with skincare trends, fast facials, and one-size-fits-all treatments, finding the right esthetician can feel a bit like dating—you want to feel seen, safe, and supported, not sold to, judged, or rushed. At Everly Grace Beauty, we believe your skincare experience should nurture more than your skin; it should touch your body and soul, too.

So how do you know when you've found your person? Here are the facial green flags that tell you you've landed in the right hands:

1. YOU FEEL SAFE, SEEN, AND NEVER JUDGED

The right esthetician creates a space where you can fully exhale. You're not just a client— they see you as a whole person, not just a set of skin concerns. Whether you're opening up about stress-related breakouts, postpartum changes, or aging insecurities, you feel emotionally safe. They listen without rushing, recommend without shaming, and offer care without conditions.

2. THEY EDUCATE WITHOUT OVERWHELMING (OR SELLING)

A great esthetician empowers you with knowledge—not pressure. They explain what’s happening with your skin, why certain ingredients matter, and how your body, lifestyle, and emotions all play a part. There’s no guilttrip for not owning the “perfect” skincare lineup. Instead, you’re met with grounded, honest education that makes you feel more confident and capable in your skin journey.

3. HONESTY OVER HYPE

Your esthetician should be your skincare truth-teller. If something won't work for you, they'll tell you. If a trending treatment isn't right for your skin, they won't upsell it. There’s integrity in their advice and transparency in their process. You leave each session trusting the intention behind every product and technique they choose.

4. THE TREATMENT FEELS LIKE IT WAS MADE FOR YOU

Cookie-cutter treatments have no place in a true healing space. Your esthetician should tailor each session to your skin's needs that day. Whether you need deep nourishment, energetic clearing, or lymphatic flow, the experience should shift with you—not stay stuck in a protocol. You’re not a repeat formula—you’re a living, changing being.

5. YOU LEAVE FEELING LIGHTER, NOT JUST GLOWIER

Of course, we all love the glow. But the best facials do more than smooth fine lines and boost radiance—they help you release. A great esthetician helps drain not only lymph

but emotional tension, energetic stagnation, and the mental noise of your day. You walk out feeling lighter, more grounded, and more connected to yourself.

6. THEY TREAT THE WHOLE YOU

At Everly Grace Beauty, we don’t separate the skin from the soul. Your face tells a story—of stress, digestion, hormones, sleep, joy. The right esthetician honors that and works holistically to support the systems underneath. From gentle touch to guided breathwork, herbal support to intuitive skin reading, it’s all connected—and it’s all welcome. IN THE END, IT’S A RELATIONSHIP

Choosing an esthetician is a personal act of self-care. It’s more than a beauty routine— it’s a relationship with someone who helps you reclaim your skin, your worth, and your wellness. When you find the right one, it’s not just about looking better—it’s about feeling more like you.

At Everly Grace Beauty, we believe every woman deserves to feel safe, sacred, and seen. If that resonates with you, you may have just found your skin home.

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

Becoming

Just

REFLUX, HEARTBURN & THE HIDDEN CLUES IN YOUR GUT

Acid reflux and heartburn are more than just annoying symptoms. In many cases, they’re signs that something is off with your gut health and it's time to dig a little deeper.

One of the most common root causes is H. pylori, a bacteria that can inflame your stomach lining and reduce stomach acid levels, making digestion sluggish and uncomfortable. Over 50% of the world’s population carries it, and it often goes undiagnosed.

While conventional medicine typically offers acid-blocking drugs like omeprazole (Prilosec), these only mask symptoms and may cause long-term side effects—such as nutrient deficiencies, gut infections, and rebound reflux. In fact, PPIs are among the top 3 most prescribed drugs in the U.S., yet they were never meant for longterm use.

The more effective route? Functional testing to identify what’s actually going on in your gut. A comprehensive stool test like the GI-MAP looks beyond just H. pylori to assess gut bacteria, inflammation, and digestion markers—providing the full picture.

From there, we can build a customized healing plan using herbal protocols, gut-supportive nutrients, nutrition, and lifestyle strategies. That means real healing—not just symptom suppression.

Bryan R Daybell Ins Agcy Inc

Bryan Daybell, Agent 1960 Sidewinder Drive Park City, UT 84060 Bus: 435-649-9161

Your home is where you make some of your best memories, and that’s worth protecting. I’m here to help. LET’S TALK TODAY.

If reflux or heartburn are interfering with your life, it may be time for a Gut Check. I offer a Gut Restore Assessment that includes GI-MAP testing and a full review of your results. Let’s figure out what’s causing the symptoms—and work on getting you back to feeling good again.

▶ Learn more at wholeessentialsnutrition.com

▶ Or book a free discovery call to start the conversation.

Journey of an Up-andComing Musician in Utah

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BY ISABELLA VENEGAS

Some say there is nothing original anymore, but as I continue to meet more people in Utah, I have found the opposite to be true. I recently interviewed an up-and-coming Utahn musician, who is following her passions and embracing all hardships, in hopes of making her unique dream become reality.

Erinne Jones is a 20-year-old woman from Ogden, Utah. She graduated from high school in 2023 and has lived in this beautiful state for the entirety of her life. “Music has always played a massive role in my life as I’ve grown up,” Erinne says, passionately. Her great dream of being a rock musician became apparent after witnessing a Green Day performance at Dodger Stadium in 2021. Naturally, this rock band has become Erinne’s most powerful influence in her music style. She also says that her experience in theater gives her a stronger voice when she writes her music.

In the fall of 2023, Erinne began her music journey and released “MANIA,” her first single. In early 2024, she gathered other fellow musicians to form a band. Since then, Erinne and her band have played in venues and gigs from Brigham City to Midvale, Utah.

Mental health plays a part in Erinne’s ability to perform. Although she states that performing has been good for her mental wellness, beginning this venture proved to be challenging. “As someone with anxiety, I’ve been pushed into being more confident and self-assured,” she tells us. Now, the stage is her “safe space.” She describes finding a certain kind of peace and quietness while singing and playing guitar in front of a crowd of fans.

While she can find comfort and refreshment in songwriting, this process is an introspective experience. “It can be taxing to reach so deeply into yourself and pull lyrics from the darkest places you’ve been in as a person,” reveals Erinne.

When asked to speak about the best part of her performance experiences, Erinne doesn’t hesitate to respond: “Definitely hearing the crowd react to my music and my message.” Since a large part of her music is to spread awareness about current topics, watching her fans sing along and applaud the meanings of her songs encourages her. A few topics she has grown passionate about include women’s reproductive rights and fair treatment of queer individuals.

Despite all the good that comes with Erinne’s shows, there are downsides. She has discovered that plenty of organizers do not take her seriously. “Sometimes they’re prejudiced against the fact that I’m newer to the scene or because I’m a woman,” Erinne says in frustration, adding that she’s usually the sole female musician at shows. Also, singing about political topics affects how venues accept her. “Because music takes a while to start providing for an artist financially,” Erinne continues, “I also face a lot of judgment from people with more conventional jobs.” Oftentimes, it is difficult for her to find a place to talk about her music; her peers have judged her and described her job as not being as “mature, determined, intelligent, or established” as theirs. This, however, does not hold Erinne back in the slightest. It makes her work harder.

Erinne’s dream is to have not only a music career, but also to become famous. She would like to be successful enough to both sustain her livelihood and travel around the world. “But the real answer is that I want to sell out stadiums and have a star on the Hollywood walk of fame!” says Erinne.

As in every journey of life, support is important. Erinne is lucky to have her parents, her wonderful partner, and her amazing friends. She gives a special shoutout to her high school choir teacher, who had immense faith in her. Erinne also is grateful for the support on social media.

Erinne will soon release a new single called “The Apocalypse’s Bride,” which focuses on the current attack on reproductive rights. Its proceeds will help a pro-choice organization called Greenwave Utah.

Erinne’s advice for future musicians or any creative career is to be as defiant and stubborn as possible. Her story makes it clear that having a unique dream, such as becoming the next rock star selling out at stadiums, proves that everyone’s path is original. “Your art will be its best when it is authentically YOURS,” she exclaims, “just as every single one of my songs is a little piece of me.”

Erinne’s upcoming shows: September 20th at The Boiler Room in Ogden, 7:00 p.m., and September 24th at Ogden Weber Technical College, 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

NORTHWEST OF ST. GEORGE: A LOOP THROUGH

GEOLOGIC AND HISTORIC TIME WITH A PINCH OF ART

When faced with 105 to 114 degrees Fahrenheit, we decide to turn our weekend trip into a multi-day adventure. I grew up in a climate where we were sent home from school when temperatures reached 86 degrees. Hiking in heat is still a challenge, so we choose some shorter hikes, starting with Jenny’s Canyon Trail in Snow Canyon State Park. It takes you to a beginner-sized slot canyon with some resident pigeons. While short, the walls have intriguing cubby holes and patterns, and the bird voices lend a feeling of adventure to this nicely shaded canyon.

If you don’t have an annual Utah State Parks pass, Snow Canyon State Park charges $15 per vehicle each day, which visitors pay via a QR code (on the honor system) at the entrance. You can stop at the centrally located visitor center to pick up a map and a list of birds in the park. We see rock squirrels and antelope squirrels, in addition to numerous birds and lizards. Many trails lead through the Kayenta formations and Navajo sandstone, which traded dominance about 183 million years ago.

Once we arrive at Highway 18, we turn left to see the two cinder cones that caused the most recent layer of basalt on the hills in Snow Canyon between 1,000 and 10,000 years ago. The parking lot is about a mile north around the corner; you can hike up to get a good view of the area. We continue a few more miles north and turn on to Lower Sand Cove Road, a washboard dirt road. After five miles, we arrive at a parking lot with a trailhead. We head towards the Vortex but end up far past it, in a beautiful bowl along Sand Cove Wash. This area is reminiscent of Capital Reef National Park. Checkerboard walls and many potholes, only the deepest of which were filled with water, alternate with Navajo sandstone cliffs and basalt-covered walls. In this canyon, every section has its own beauty; it doesn’t matter how far you hike. The path is initially marked with trail markers and cairns, but they disappear as you head into Sand Cove Wash. It does make it easier to return to your car when you hike back. We see many animal tracks in the sandy sections of the trail. Internet is not available, so remember to bring printed maps.

We continue along Lower Sand Cove Road until we reach Gunlock. This three-mile dirt road has steep sections as you descend into this green oasis. I’m surprised at the rodeo grounds, which were established in 1945, and some of the large mansions along their main street. We head south, turning left as we come down the dirt road, arriving at Gunlock Reservoir soon after. The contrast between the red rocks and the teal water is stunning. We pull into the campground, which is also the access to the beach and boat launch. A campground host checks your pass or sells you one if this is your first stop at Gunlock State Park. There are picnic tables with shade sails along the beach, as well as a rental facility for canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and accessories. Several bays off the main reservoir make for easy paddleboarding. Also, there is no food for sale.

Just to the south of the dam, we stop to hike to Gunlock Falls. As we reach the restrooms, we keep walking to the west towards the rock walls. The path leads along a narrow canyon uphill. The waterfalls are seasonal, and green mineral deposits highlight where the water normally runs. Summertime is not the time to see the waterfalls. Continuing on, we enter the Shivwits Band of Paiutes Indian Reservation. Vegetation is clumped along the riverbed. A small town clustered around a large building proclaiming this to be the home of the Shivwits Band of Paiute Indians is the only sign of current habitation, until a new gas station appears, offering the cheapest gas around. TRAVEL

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The turnoff to Kayenta is just over a mile from there. Kayenta greets you with the Desert Rose labyrinth to walk around, with artwork by locals placed in strategic places, encouraging meditation and contemplation. Several of the works are dedicated to past members of the community. The Kayenta art village delights with a series of galleries, a pottery collaborative, some restaurants, an outdoor theater, and an art center, which presents shows in the evenings. The pottery collaborative is a working pottery studio and store shared by 10 potters. One of the galleries is a co-op, where exhibiting artists take turns running the gallery. We see delicate mosaic art, woodwork, metal art, photography, glassworks, and every kind of painting. While I take photos of metal sculptures outside, a roadrunner approaches along the side of the building.

Reportedly, the local restaurants feed French fries to the roadrunner (which still likes to hide). We escape the sun inside Xetava, where cobb salad large enough for two and delicious roasted cauliflower tacos are served. Quails running across the parking lot mark the end of our adventure.

Websites: stateparks.utah.gov/parks/snow-canyon, stateparks.utah.gov/parks/gunlock

“Five stars ! Excellent customer service and communication. Everything is online and transparent and work is impeccable!” - Cory C.

“Our experience with Jonathan and his team has been great! Excellent communication and quality, professional service. Highly recommend!” - Ellen A.

Read more reviews on our website!

(1950) MOVIE REVIEW Cinderella © Best Version Media

This movie should have been about Gus Gus. Just picture it, a fat little mouse in a fancy jacket and red tights, waddling around in royal style. Then one day, a cute mouse shows up to his party, they lock eyes across the ballroom floor, and boom, true love. They get married, eat a bunch of cheese, have like thirty chubby baby mice, and the whole thing is over in ten minutes. That I’d watch. Instead, we get this weird fever dream about a girl that just lets people boss her around all day while she sings to birds and uses mice to do much of the actual work. No wonder her family locks her up. What would you do if your kid was making friends with mice and putting clothes on them?

The stepmom is actually pretty scary. Cinderella is out there cleaning every surface in the house like her life depends on it—which it sort of does. That is, if Disney released a PG-13 version, I could imagine the stepmom threatening to cast Cinderella’s feet in concrete and toss her into a river. Slipper? I’ll make ya a slipper.

But the stepmom never actually says Cinderella, you can’t go to the ball—she just forces Cinderella into so many chores she’d have to figure out how to sprout little Cinderella clones to finish. Sure you can go… after you clean the entire planet, organize my sock drawer (by color and mood), and repaint the cat. And Cinderella’s like Okay! Dude. You got mice that sew dresses for you and will do anything for you on command. Start a revolution, do away with steplady and her pretentious daughters, and take over the house.

Cinderella's friends—the mice—-do all the REAL work. Gus Gus and Jack (the skinny one) deserve their own movie plus a vacation. They sew clothes, dodge cats, defy physics, steal keys, and basically organize and run an underground rescue mission. Meanwhile, Prince Charming can’t catch Cinderella as she runs away or even organize a successful chase after her. She is on foot and running with a glass slipper! Do better!

Speaking of that guy, the prince has the decision-making abilities of a hungry wombat. He sees Cinderella for like three seconds at the ball and is like, WIFE. YES. PERFECT. Bro. You don't even know her name. You

could be proposing to someone who thinks the world is flat and ice cream is nasty. Also, let’s talk a second about the Fairy Godmother. She shows up out of nowhere after ignoring Cinderella’s entire childhood. Where was she when Cinderella was sleeping in the attic eating old toast? Oh, sorry, I didn't show up earlier—I was busy. But turning pumpkins into Ubers? Greatest fun there is! And the magic? Yeah, it’s cool. Turning mice into horses, a pumpkin into a carriage, rags into a dress—great. But maybe instead of doing all that for one party, she could just fix Cinderella’s life. Like, magic her up a house. Or a job at Burger King. Or a lawyer. Also, glass slippers? Seriously? Shoes made of glass are just one stubbed toe away from a crime scene. If the average person had to run down stairs at midnight in glass heels, they would end up in the ER, not married to a prince.

Anyway, Cinderella leaves the ball in a panic when the magic wears off (lame Fairy Godmother couldn’t give her another hour? Please), loses a shoe, and the prince suddenly decides that the only way to find her is to try the slipper on everyone in the kingdom. You know, because feet are a one-of-a-kind thing. Sure dude. Nobody else wears a size 6.

So then we get the Great Slipper Scourge. The royal blokes go from house to house, forcing girls to shove their feet into this fragile shoe. And when this hygiene disaster finally gets to Cinderella’s house, she is—surprise!— locked in the attic by her stepmom.

But don’t worry, because Jack and Gus Gus pull off the most stressful key delivery of all time. They haul this massive key across the

house, past the evil cat, up ten flights of stairs, and manage to save the day, again. Seriously, without the mice, this movie would have ended at minute fifteen with Cinderella sobbing into a dustpan.

Finally, Cinderella comes down stairs, the stepmother shatters the slipper, and it's all over, except—plot twist! Cinderella got another shoe! Yay. Married. Happily ever after. Even though the prince still doesn’t know her name and she’s spoken maybe five words total. That is if you don’t include singing—there was plenty of that.

So yeah. This movie is about a girl who quite possibly enjoys people bossing her around, a prince who falls in love based on shoe size, and some mice that probably deserve a medal of honor. The plot only works if no one asks any questions, and it's okay that the romance has all the depth of a spoon. But hey, it’s shiny and has music, so people love it.

Just give me the Gus Gus spin off already.

How Not To Blow It

IF YOU’RE GOING TO PREACH THE FAIL GOSPEL, FAIL WITH INTEGRITY

When I started ghostwriting for entrepreneurs in 2013, celebrating “failure” was in vogue. Startup founders bragged about how epically they messed up and what they learned—though it’s worth noting, most only boasted about their failures after making boatloads of money.

Not all fails are made equal, however, and not all who preach the Fail Gospel practice it faithfully.

In 2013, Breathometer became the first startup on ABC’s Shark Tank to convince all five “sharks” to invest. The founder pitched “the world’s first smartphone breathalyzer” that plugs into the headphone jack of a smartphone and tells the user not only their blood alcohol content (BAC) but how long it will take to sober up.

The founder delivered a masterful pitch. He asked the sharks to imagine they were at a dinner party and poured them all champagne. He then raised a question later highlighted in a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) complaint: “You have some drinks and . . . the most important question is––are you safe to drive?”

To get an answer, simply plug Breathometer into your audio jack, activate the app, blow, and see your BAC. The purpose of the device, said the founder, was “to help people make smarter and safer decisions.”

A bidding war ensued and ended with billionaire Mark Cuban investing $500k and the other sharks contributing a combined $500k for a

CHRISTIAN CENTER OF PARK CITY: CELEBRATING 25 YEARS

This year, the Christian Center of Park City (CCPC) is excited to celebrate 25 years of transforming lives and meeting needs in Summit and Wasatch Counties through programs like Back 2 School Basics, Basic Needs Assistance, food pantries, mental health counseling, and more. How did we get here? From giving away bread out of a storage unit in Park City, to distributing nearly a million pounds of food at multiple food pantries, our road has been paved with perseverance, and a ton of support from donors, volunteers, local businesses, and nonprofit partners.

We offer a stepladder of support to underserved and overlooked people. It starts with meeting basic needs like food security and stable housing, cultivating hope, helping people pursue better mental wellness, and eventually offers opportunities to give back. What is in store for the next 25 years? CCPC leadership and staff are currently dreaming and planning for our next 25 years of service – we see a future filled with new relationships with clients, supporters, and volunteers. We envision each CCPC location as a hub of joy, dignity, and transformation.

To those who have been a part of our journey so far – THANK YOU. To those just discovering us, we invite you to join us in transforming lives. Learn more at ccofpc.org.

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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total of $1 million. Breathometer would go on to raise funding from billionaire Richard Branson as well.

By the time I briefly got involved, Breathometer had launched an updated breathalyzer, the Breeze––allegedly “a law enforcement grade product utilizing a next generation electrochemical fuel cell sensor that has undergone rigorous government lab-grade testing to ensure its accuracy”––and they wanted PR help launching a device called Mint, a bad breath detector.

Mint seemed less impressive than Breeze. I mean, is it that hard to tell if your breath is terrible? Of course, Breathometer had a grander vision. Our breath, they claimed, has over 300 detectable biomarkers. Mint was a step towards building a health monitoring platform that could measure blood glucose levels, detect bacterial infections, predict asthma attacks, and more. It was an idea ripe for terrible slogans like, You Don’t Know Until You Blow (what a missed opportunity…).

Anyway, we tried to build Breathometer’s founder into a so-called thought leader. One piece, drafted in mid-2015, was about business lessons from the founder’s billionaire mentors: Mark Cuban and Richard Branson. “Fail Fast” was one of their supposed tips. “The sooner you understand what's not working, the sooner you'll arrive at a working solution,” we wrote. “Therefore, the key is to iterate quickly and ship frequently. Building something that provides value to its respective market will require multiple attempts and failures.”

Here's the irony: by 2014, Breathometer knew that Breeze had a problem. Investigators would refer to it as “downward drift.” Basically, Breeze told you your BAC was lower than it actually was— the worst thing a breathalyzer could possibly do to its trusting users. Breathometer came up with a “working solution” to this fail: multiply all the BAC results by 1.2 before sharing them with users. Clearly a “law enforcement grade” device.

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.

As a blogger for the FTC wrote, “Then in early 2015, Breathometer conducted tests that turned that initial uh-oh into a full-scale OMG.”

Breathometer determined that ambient humidity and temperature interfered with the accuracy of results, and sensor accuracy also degraded over time. By then, they’d sold over $2 million worth of Breezes.

According to an FTC complaint, Breathometer stopped selling the Breeze but didn’t tell its retailers partners, like Amazon and Best Buy, why it was discontinued. Nor did Breathometer alert customers who, presumably, were using Breeze to determine whether they were too intoxicated to drive.

Only after the FTC began its investigation (in 2016) did Breathometer warn retailers and users of the accuracy problem—and eventually deactivate the breathalyzer function on its app. To settle the FTC’s case, Breathometer agreed to notify and refund everyone who’d purchased its breathalyzers.

In a 2022 interview, Mark Cuban called Breathometer his “worst” investment in all his years on Shark Tank—not because of the BS device, but because the founder was having too much fun and spending too much money ("I'd look at his Instagram and he'd be in Bora Bora ... Two weeks later, he'd been in Vegas partying …”).

You wouldn’t know that Breathometer was a financial and ethical failure from how Breathometer’s founder told the story on LinkedIn. As of this writing, his profile boasts about how he gained recognition as a “Reality TV Star” on Shark Tank and lists over 20 news outlets and publications where he appeared pushing a product that didn’t work and endangered users.

There should be no celebration for those who fail and attempt to hide the truth for the sake of financial gain and their fragile ego. If you’re going to blow it, blow it with integrity.

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.

© Best Version Media

BY RICHARD ELLIS PHOTOS BY TODD ANDERSON, ANTHONY LEE SAMS, AND ALYSSA STANSFIELD

DID CLIMATE CHANGE *CAUSE* THAT NATURAL DISASTER?

IT’S THE WRONG QUESTION ACCORDING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF UTAH’S DR. ALYSSA STANSFIELD

After deadly flash floods struck Texas Hill Country in July, national news organizations covered the tragedy along familiar lines. “Dems, media hijack devastating Texas flooding to push 'shameful' climate change, anti-Trump narrative,” read one headline in a conservative news outlet. “Deadly Texas floods highlight impact of climate change,” read a liberal competitor’s headline.

These angles lead the public to ask whether climate change caused a given disaster. “That's not really the right question,” argues Alyssa Stansfield, PhD, Assistant Professor of Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Utah.

Stansfield, raised minutes from the New Jersey coast, was a senior in high school when Hurricane Sandy struck. In New Jersey alone, the storm took 38 lives and damaged or destroyed 346,000 homes. The destruction was “jarring” to see, Stansfield recalls, and led her to study the impacts of climate change on unusual weather events— an area known as “attribution science.”

What catches Stansfield’s interest is not everyday weather, but the outliers. “The changes in the extremes are how people experience climate change,” she says.

Take heatwaves as an example. In Salt Lake City, where weather data extends back to 1875, look at the annual mean maximum temperature (Graph A). It’s an average of the hottest temperatures recorded each month

(yellow line). Notice the long-term warming trend. Then look at the highest max temperature each year (dotted red) and notice how much more volatile it is. That highlights the change in extremes.

Each decade, the average highest temperature has gone up dramatically—from 98.1° F in the 1880s to 106.2° F in the 2020s (Graph B). At 106°, the risks of heatstroke, power grid failure, and pavement buckling go up—and so do odds that vegetation will dry out and ignite.

The effects of climate change are not uniform around the world, however. Some places get drier, and some get storms that release larger amounts of rain—because a warmer atmosphere holds more water vapor.

“Climate is the long-term weather,” Stansfield explains, and “…you could argue that any weather event that happens now would have looked at least in some way a little bit different if it had happened in the exact same way 100 years ago, before there was 1° C warming globally.”

Climate change didn’t cause the Texas flash floods or, for that matter, the Deer Creek Fire near La Sal, Utah. Scientists can’t attribute any weather event, disastrous or mundane,

to one factor. They can ask, “Did climate change influence the frequency, the likelihood, or the intensity of an extreme weather event?” as Stansfield puts it. In Texas, everything that could go wrong did. Heavy rainfall came down in an area known as Flash Flood Alley, overnight. Warning systems were inadequate, and structures housing children were built in the flood zone. And, Stansfield notes, “Climate scientists have been saying for a long time that one of the things that is going to happen with climate change is this intensification of the hydrologic cycle, where we will see more extreme rainfall events.”

This “intensification” is more nuanced and therefore harder to communicate in news media. The challenge is to think in probabilities, not simple yes-or-no causation. And even if probabilistic thinking were the norm, climate modeling would still be insufficient to prevent tragedy during extreme weather events.

“We have to emphasize and remember that it’s not just the weather event that matters. It’s also the human dimension,” Stansfield cautions. The most appealing places to live—coasts, forests, and riversides—are where extreme weather causes the most damage. Plus, there’s individual behavior to contend with. People can leave a campfire unattended, set fireworks off, or shoot an exploding target at a gender reveal party during hot, dry, and windy conditions (the cause of

© Best Version Media

Arizona’s 46,991-acre Sawmill Fire in 2017).

The climate side of the equation also has human dimensions. Reductions in greenhouse gas emissions must happen globally, not just in Utah, to reduce the probabilities of extreme weather.

Thus, many researchers focus on what they can control: the quality and transmission of information.

Stansfield is co-developing a study with Dr. Isabelle Freiling, Assistant Professor in the U of U’s Department of Communications, that will examine how visitors in southern Utah receive and react to extreme weather warnings. If there’s a flash flood risk, for instance, does their decision-making change? That choice at the mouth of a slot canyon

is a microcosm of the choices we make as societies. We desperately need the ability to hold multiple perspectives that, in politicized media, are portrayed as incompatible. Yes, long-term choices about energy and industry will increase or reduce the likelihood of damaging events. And yes, decisions about forest management and warning systems will increase or reduce the likelihood of fatalities and damage.

“What's lost in the public debate is the nuance of the framing and the questions that we actually can answer,” Stansfield says. If we ask unanswerable questions, we get unhelpful answers—often in the form of clickbait headlines.

© Best Version Media

BY SANDY GELDHOF

FROM KIMONOS TO CONFIDENCE:

How One Young Designer Turned Japanese Heritage and Healing into a Custom Bag Brand

KOJI TAYLOR, FOUNDER OF SHISSO DESIGNS, TRANSFORMS VINTAGE KIMONOS INTO A BUSINESS BORN FROM PURPOSE

As is the case with many young people, finding a path toward a future in your 20s isn’t easy, and can often be mired in self-doubt and uncertainty. Finding a calling and a purpose can be a road complete with bumps and U-turns. Such was the case for Koji Taylor, a born-and-raised Parkite who found himself at a crossroads, drifting afloat in a sea of options and a strong desire to find a direction that brought him peace.

Following graduation from Park City High School Koji pursued a path in culinary arts, an interest sparked by spending many hours with his grandparents who were proficient in Japanese cuisine. He explained that his grandfather had been a professional cook trained in Kyoto, and he would spend time in the kitchen with him and his grandmother. Following high school, he worked at Shabu

Each bag is handmade in small batches using upcycled kimono fabrics and some are decades old and full of history, no two are the same

“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.

© Best Version Media

on Main Street under the owner who had also been his high school teacher. “Growing up part Japanese I always felt a quiet pull toward the culture,” said Koji. “I loved cooking traditional Japanese food, exploring that part of my identity through flavors and traditions and, over time, I became a sushi chef.” The experience reignited his connection to Japan and inspired a deep fascination with its history. Over the past two years Koji traveled to Japan multiple times, attending culinary school in 2023, and traveling through Kyoto, Osaka and Tokyo. Along the way he expanded his spoken and written vocabulary in Japanese and became more connected with his heritage. “Immersed in the culture, I felt a real connection to my roots and those experiences became some of the most inspiring and grounding moments of my life,” he said.

Back in the U.S. Koji stepped away from the restaurant industry after experiencing burnout and challenges with finding a balance. “I knew I needed a new path, one that allowed me to still work with my hands and remain connected to Japanese culture,” he said. But this entrepreneurial young man, with an old soul and a strong Japanese heritage, wasn’t about to let it get him down for long. During one of his trips to Japan he found himself in a shop that sold sneakers made from upcycled kimono fabrics, and that concept stayed with him, “honoring the past through design,” Koji explained.

With an artist’s heart, Koji ordered old kimonos in bulk, but admits (with a laugh) that he “had no idea what to do with them.” He began experimenting with making handbags, using limited sewing skills he learned in a Home Economics class he took in middle school, watching videos on YouTube, and a whole lot of “trial and error.” “I had no formal training in

sewing or design,” confessed Koji, “but I had a clear vision and a deep desire to create.” He admits his first bags were rough, but with time and patience, they improved.

Launching his initial creations on Etsy under the moniker Kimono Crafted (and with the idea of testing the waters) Koji realized there was a market for the upcycled bags. And with every piece made and sold, his skills and understanding grew. In 2025, with three successful bag styles, he rebranded to Shisso Designs and launched a retail website at shissodesigns.com.

Koji said the name “Shisso” means simplicity or modesty in Japanese, and though it’s often seen as plain or humble, he sees quiet strength in it. “A beauty rooted in restraint and meaning,” he explained. In addition, the logo features two family kamon (crests) which Koji traced through stories with his grandmother. The nadeshiko flower symbolizes grace and strength, and the dragon symbolizes power and transformation.

What is House of Colour?

For over 35 years, House of Colour has been helping people look their best and feel their most confident by finding color and style options that are completely unique to YOU!

Utah, the wait is over.! Do yourself a favor and book a color analysis with Julie! It is a ONE-TIME investment into yourself that lasts for many, many years. Each bag is handmade in small batches using upcycled kimono fabrics and some are decades old and full of history, no two are the same

Koji designs and creates each bag himself from his mother’s home in the Pinebrook area with plans on making new bag designs. His goal is to eventually branch out to create more accessories and possibly introduce clothing pieces.

Through the process, Koji has evolved his desire to keep his cultural heritage alive through storytelling with the kimonos. “Each bag is handmade in small batches using upcycled kimono fabrics and some are decades old and full of history, no two are the same,” his website states, humble about his part in that process. “These bags are not about me,” he says, “they’re about preserving cultural beauty and sharing it in a thoughtful, wearable way. I’m simply the maker; the fabric leads the design.” Book your consultation @ hocjuliehickam.as.me/schedule.php 435.315.2258 • Julie.Hickam@HouseOfColour.com

SPEND THE DAY (or Longer!) AT HOMESTEAD RESORT

The Homestead Resort in Midway offers a charming escape packed with fun experiences for families. This historic resort seamlessly blends relaxation, excitement, and a touch of nostalgia. Whether you’re planning a daytime retreat or a weekend getaway, be sure to put the Homestead Resort on your list.

“The Homestead is rooted in family tradition and family gathering,” said Mel Hampton, marketing manager for Homestead Resort. “We have been around for nearly 140 years in Midway, we have created a space that caters to making memories with families.”

THE FAMOUS HOMESTEAD CRATER

A trip to Homestead Resort wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Homestead Crater. This natural geothermal hot spring, located inside a 55-foot limestone dome, is as relaxing as it is awe-inspiring. Enter through the bottom of the crater and meander along the inside until you reach the dock. There, you can participate in paddleboard yoga, snorkeling, a warm soak, or a swim. The temperature of the water inside the crater maintains 90-96 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. During the warmer months, the top of the dome is open, allowing you to enjoy views of the sky and natural sunlight.

POOLSIDE PERFECTION

For those who favor lounging by the pool, the spacious pool complex is perfect. Bring your pool toys or play volleyball with the setup provided, and lots of sunscreen for a day of fun. Poolside cabanas add extra flair, shade and provide a relaxing spot to enjoy the space. The pool is heated year-round and features a tranquil waterfall for even more good vibes.

Locals can purchase a day pass for $55 and children under 2 are free. The pool is open from 9 am to 10 pm daily. On the upper deck, guests can rent private cabanas that are surrounded by several hot tubs. Bottled water, fans, and electric outlets are included.

What’s better than ending an eventful day with a crackling fire and a gooey s’more? The fire pits around the pool come alive in the evenings, creating the perfect setting for unwinding with

your loved ones under a starlit sky. You don’t even need to bring your marshmallows as the resort provides convenient s’mores kits to make your evening extra sweet.

TEE OFF

Golf enthusiasts will find a scenic and wellgroomed par 71 course at Homestead Resort, surrounded by striking mountain views. Spanning an impressive 6,669 yards from the championship tees and a friendly 4,778 yards

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from the forward tees, the course offers an enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. Open seasonally, the club is designed to help you elevate your skills with a dedicated putting green, chipping area, and driving range. Through their Callaway Rental Program, guests have access to premium equipment for a seamless and top-notch experience on the course. After your round, head over to the 1886 Grill to enjoy some smoked specialties, wood-fired pizzas, and refreshing beverages.

Rates are $50 for 9 holes, Monday through Thursday, and $80 for 18 holes. A junior rate of $30 is available for 9 holes for children under 16.

“LIVE”-LY

EATS

The lively vibe of the year-round pool is carried over at the adjacent eatery, 1886 Grill, which adds an upbeat ambiance to your meals with its live music performances. Sit back, sip a cocktail or a soda for the kids, and enjoy the atmosphere of good food and fun.

SWEET

TREATS AT MILK HOUSE

A visit to the Milk House is a must. Famous for its home-churned ice cream - and let me just say, it lives up to the hype - this charming spot offers a nostalgic taste of childhood. Sample a creamy scoop (or two) of your favorite flavor and take in the small-town charm that makes the Milk House so special. This is the kind of indulgence that appeals to both children and those with a childlike spirit. “The Milk House is a super cute spot for guests to visit, but also for the local community,” Hampton added. “After a sports game or exploring the Wasatch Back, stop in.”

PLAN YOUR NEXT FAMILY OUTING

The Homestead Resort has a genuine, welcoming, and family-friendly atmosphere. From the warm hospitality to the thoughtfully curated packages, the details at Homestead are designed to make guests feel right at home.

Venture to Midway with the whole crew because whether it’s roasting marshmallows by the fire, hanging out in a poolside cabana, or taking in all the surrounding natural wonders of the area, you’ll find plenty to do together.

BAKING FOR PAWS: SPREADING LOVE THROUGH PASTRIES

AND

PUPS WITH SUGARFACE FOUNDATION

Local resident Laura

Francese

is Making Life Sweet for Homeless Dogs

Park City resident Laura Francese has found the perfect recipe to make life sweet. Between her confectionery treats––created at her in-house bakery––and her nonprofit dog rescue––The Sugarface Foundation––Laura brings a commitment to making life just a little bit sweeter, for homeless dogs and residents alike.

Like many in the rescue world, Laura’s foray into a full schedule saving dogs happened accidentally, and springboarded from a particular dog who stole her heart. A big fan of the Weimeraner breed, of which she had fostered many over fifteen years, she saw Boston online who she described as looking like “walking death.” “I saw him, and I was like, we have to save this dog,” she said. Her husband diverted a flight he had scheduled to travel to Colorado and drove him back to their home in Pinebrook.

Over the course of several months Laura brought him back to life only to have a veterinarian diagnose him with multiple brain lesions, from which he couldn’t survive. “It was devastating,” she recalls. “I was so angry at the universe. He finally got with a family who loved him and now he has cancer?” Following his death Laura could have let her heartache get the best of her, but instead it motivated her to do more. She said, “I have to keep doing this. I have to suck it up and ignore my broken heart and save more and do more.”

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And so, in 2020 during the height of Covid Laura applied for her 501 c3, and her nonprofit, Sugarface Foundation, was born. Its name implies older dogs whose faces have started to turn grey with age, but Laura offers a different take. “Sugarface means a lot of different things,” she explained. “It can be the frosty faces of older dogs, but every dog has a sweet face, which to me is like sugar.” She went on to explain that her rescue tends to help dogs who are harder to place, whether that means a senior in a shelter or a dog who needs expensive medical care and was surrendered for its owner’s inability to pay. “I always try to do what’s best for the dog and I find a way to pay for it.”

That financial burden can be daunting, even with public donations and grant funding when it’s available. With a truly entrepreneurial spirit Laura uses funding from her other business to help make ends meet and that business, too, is steeped with sweetness. From her professional baking studio in her Pinebrook home Laura whips up confections from custom cakes and cupcakes to other pastries and sells to the public, as well as local hotels whose guests are needing a custom order. Her Park City Cakery has been in business for about 7 years, and the proceeds help to fund Sugarface Foundation. “With Sugarface I was never really asking for donations from the public and so I was basically baking cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and pies to pay for the dogs,” she laughed. Through only word of mouth and social media she has found great success with the business.

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

DAY CARE

SLEEP OVERS

GROOMING &

(BY

“I’m so thankful I’ve been able to live out that dream,” she explained. “My mom has pictures of me making up recipes and baking from the time I was four years old,” she laughed. She went on to say that she has never paid for advertising and that was intentional. “I want my cakes to speak for themselves and that’s how it's always gone. I feel very fortunate for that. It has kept me really busy.”

Laura is quick to point out that although both her rescue and her bakery business keep her busy, her number one priority is her family and raising her ten-year-old son. After experiencing fertility challenges for many years, at 42 Laura gave birth to Dominic, who she calls her “miracle” baby.” “I had a less than 5% chance of having a healthy baby at that age, and here is the most incredible human ever. He makes me better every day.”

Finding that balance can be tough, she admits. “I literally do not have any downtime, especially in the winter with my bakery orders, but I feel like I’ve been successful with juggling it all.”

Despite a schedule that might make someone want to take a nap, this former Buffalo Bill’s cheerleader finds the energy to continue her mission of helping as many dogs as possible. “I think one of the greatest things is matching a dog up with a person or family, and having the dogs and owners become enriched beyond what I can imagine,” she says. “It becomes this incredible experience for everyone, and it just makes my heart burst.” To be sure, for both people and dogs, Laura is keen to provide the sweetest endings.

CONCIERGE SERVICES

HIKES

DAILY PICK UP & DELIVERY

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

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Meet Copper! Meet Cash!

Behold, Copper! L’Oreal called, they want his hair care routine. Have you ever laid eyes on such a beautiful dog? He was blessed with wavy beach hair, even Jason Momoa would be impressed. Imagine the hairdos, the style, the flair. Copper would pull off a manbun and I know you’d agree with me.

Copper gets to explore this world on three legs, he’s a tripod. After breaking his leg, his previous owners were unable to move forward with the surgery he needed. That’s where Fetch Cares stepped in! They were able to have his medical needs taken care of and he has healed wonderfully. Being so young at two years old, he will be able to navigate the rest of his three legged life with confidence. Getting to take photos of adoptable dogs is great for my day dreaming tendencies. Can you imagine a life with this boy? Waking up in the morning with him at your feet. Picture the road trips, when you look in the back seat he is fast asleep dreaming of you. The laughter, the barking, the living! His golden eyes watching with adoration, also watching for when you drop food. Copper will make an amazing best friend, no doubt in my mind. This dog will make a house a home. You just need to reach out!

Please reach out to Tori with Fetch Cares for more information #540383-7522

It is my pleasure to introduce you to Cash! Firstly, who doesn’t need a little Cash in their life? I’d say it’s common knowledge in the dog world that huskies tend to be a little crazy, off the wall; “...sorry Mom, I ate the couch.” BONKERS.

Not this guy. Cash is two years old and he was gifted with the personality of a more refined gentleman. I’m telling ya, that is weird for a husky, especially at his wee age. Meeting Cash was an interesting thing, I wasn’t met with the common husky scream singing, nor the whiplash of watching a dog with the zoomies. Instead he plodded up to me on his ginormous paws and smooshed his even larger head into my face. I don’t know who made this dog in the dog making factory, but they may have gotten some proportions wrong. This dog has a large cranium, and I’m pretty positive he hasn’t got much going on up there. That is up for you to decide! With the way he behaves now, can you imagine as he grows into himself? A dog’s personality will always age like fine wine. Cash is currently with Fetch Cares waiting for his forever home. Please reach out to Tori for more detailed information! # 540-383-7522. If he catches your eye, I would act quick, we all know cash never lasts long!

© Best Version Media

SPECIALIZING IN:

• Residential Renovations

• Residential Additions

• Commercial Tenant Improvements

• Interior Finish Selections

OTHER SERVICES OFFERED:

• 3rd Party Construction Management

• Architectural Design

• 3D Visualization Models

“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

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!

Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Trim Your Trees

Fall isn't just about pumpling spice and cooler weather - it's one of the best seasons for tree care. Here's why:

• Less Stress on Trees - Cooler temps and dormancy mean pruning is easier on your trees.

• Prevent Winter Damage - Removing dead or hazardous branches reduces the risk of storm breakage.

• Better Visibikity - Fewer leaves make it easier to spot weak limbs and shape the canopy.

• Healthier Spring Growth - Pruning in fall promotes strong, vibrany growth come spring.