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JANUARY 2025

Enrique Sanchez DARING TO DREAM

COVER PHOTO BY DEB DEKOFF

EARLY PREVENTION MEDICAL EXPERT Dr. Spenser Reed Park City DEXA pcdexa.com info@pcdexa.com

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

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

COLOR AND STYLE EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR Julie Hickam House of Colour Julie.Hickam@houseofcolour.com 435.315.2258

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

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

REAL ESTATE EXPERT Annett Blankenship Keller Williams Real Estate 693 Main St., Park City, UT 84060 annett@parkcityinvestor.com 435-602-9976

PET NUTRITION EXPERT Heide Fowler, Owner Healthy Pets Summit County 435-214-7963 healthypetssummit@gmail.com

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

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

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

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

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 INTERIOR DESIGN EXPERTS Franky & Tam Studio Interiors & Co. franky@studiointeriorsutah.com tam@studiointeriorsutah.com 435-214-6951 LIGHTING DESIGN EXPERT Jenn Brassey Elume 3156 Quarry Rd., Unit A, Park City, 84098 elumepc.com 435-640-5427 | 435-647-2997 PLUMBING EXPERT Jonathan Cheever Team Cheever Plumbing & Heating www.teamcheever.net (435) 252 7697

NATURAL WELLNESS EXPERT WOW Clinics 435-800-6969 info@wowclinic.com wowclinic.com

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

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JANUARY 2025 // 3

PA I D A D V E R T I S E M E N T

NEW YEAR – NEW INTERESTS . . . HOW ABOUT LEARNING MORE ABOUT WINE?

Wine is one of the world’s oldest beverages (over 10,000 years of history), and we Americans are the largest consumers of wine globally! Here are some basic ways to approach wine to help you begin or continue your wine journey, which will inform and empower you when you go for that next glass or bottle. First, this may seem basic, but you’d be surprised. Know that the table grapes (Vitis Labrusca) you see in the supermarket are not wine grapes. Though they are from the same family, table grapes are larger, sweeter, have thinner skin and more seeds, and are unsuitable for wine. Wine grapes are significantly different and called ‘Vitis Vinifera’ grapes. How do you even start and know what wine you will like? Wine can be complex and can seem intimidating; after all, there are over 1300 commercially grown grape varieties – wow! Start simple with just a handful of main varieties in both white and red. As you taste through these, you will learn your preferences. Moscato, Viognier and Riesling, white wines will be slightly sweet due to their characteristics. Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, and Albariño will be a bit tart with citrus fruits due to their naturally high acidity. Chardonnay and white blends will be the heavier of the white wines. For reds, start with the lightest of all reds, Pinot Noir, then slowly move your way up the scale to richer, fuller and more robust red wines: Chianti

Classico (Sangiovese grape), Merlot, Tempranillo, Malbec, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. What does Old World & New World mean in the wine world? “Old World” refers to the birthplace or origin of the grapes and has centuries of history and tradition. Some old-world regions that you are familiar with are Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, Austria, and Germany, just to name a few. Since tradition and regulations control old-world wine production, you’ll find old-world wines to be generally smoother and more subtle. “New World” wine is where grapevines made their way during the age of exploration only a few hundred years ago. New World regions are the US, Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, Chile, Canada, South Africa and more. Unlike the Old World, New World wines still have European influence but are not tied to winemaking rules or regulations, giving the winemaker freedom of expression and creativity. New World wines are often a bit fruitier, bigger, bolder and higher in alcohol. Why does a wine of the same grape taste different from region to region? Now that you have tasted some basic varieties and know the difference between the old world and the new world, let’s talk a bit about why a wine can taste so different from one region to another. You may have heard the word ‘Terroir’ (ter-wahr) a French word meaning “a sense of place” that includes soil, climate, temperature and topography. It sounds complex, but it really isn’t.

Where the grapes grow impacts how they taste. In warmer climate regions, the wine will tend to have riper fruit flavors, generally more alcohol, less acidity and fuller in body. Grapes grown in cooler climate regions typically don’t ripen as quickly, which means a little more acidity, more subtle or delicate, bright, fresh flavors, lower alcohol and lighter in body. Soil type and topography or elevation play a part as well. Here is a very simple way to think about this. Take the soil and the land in Salt Lake City vs. Park City; only a few miles separate the two but the climate, soil and elevation are significantly different. Therefore, if you planted the same grape or vegetable in both places, the result of flavor will be very different. Now that you have some basics to build your wine foundation on, have some fun with it! Gather some friends, and do a tasting of a few wines. Go to wine tasting events! This is where you can taste several wines without having to purchase several bottles and you can ask the expert questions to help you discover your style and your personal preference, giving you confidence and enjoyment in your wine journey. Park City Wine Club has several fun and educational wine events every month, from simple, affordable wine tastings to wine and cheese pairing monthly at PC Creamery and sometimes fully paired wine dinners to enjoy the best of both the food and the wine. Check us out, come learn and enjoy with me! parkcitywineclub.com Pamela Wood, CWE, AWE

SAVOR THE SENSATIONS. Join the club. Join the fun. PCWC established in 2012 holds regular events to enjoy, explore and educate members on wine, food & wine, and wine history.

“From novice to enthusiast - there is something for everyone in the world of wine!”

Email us @ ParkCityWineClub@gmail.com, or visit our website parkcitywineclub.com 4 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

Pamela Wood,

CWE, AWE

Certified Sommelier ParkCityWineClub.com, Director of Education, Culinary Wine Institute

COSMO

My all-time favorite cocktail! The Sazerac is an amazing cocktail closely related to the Old Fashioned. In fact, in laymen’s terms, it is considered a New Orleans Old Fashioned. The Sazerac originated way back in the 1830’s. Some evidence shows that it is considered “the first cocktail.” Originally made with brandy, it is now made with Rye Whiskey as its base component.

The SAZERAC

Both Sazeracs and Old Fashioneds are based on a combination of whiskey, sugar, and bitters. However, where the Sazerac shines is by adding an Absinthe rinse. Then lastly finishing with a lemon peel as opposed to the Old Fashioned’s orange. On first sip, the combination of the anise flavor of the Absinthe with the lemon is magical, then the spicy whiskey flavorings of the Rye complete your taste buds journey into absolute bliss. It is still very spirit-forward, but if you like Old Fashioneds, you need to give this a try. This is my favorite cocktail to introduce people to. Once they take a sip it quickly turns into one of their favorites as well. Prep Time 5 minutes INGREDIENTS: • 1 ½ oz Rye Whiskey • ½ oz Simple Syrup • 2 Dashes of Peychaud’s or Angostura Bitters • ¼ oz of Absinthe • Lemon Peel for Garnish DIRECTIONS: Pour Absinthe into an old fashioned glass. Swirl the Absinthe around to coat the inside of the glass, then dump out any excess. (This is important because if you leave in the excess Absinthe, it will fully take over the cocktail). Add ½ oz Simple Syrup and 2 dashes of bitters. Put ice in the glass (a large cube is best, but 4-5 regular cubes will work). Add Rye, and stir for 10-15 seconds. Finishes by expressing lemon peel over the cocktail, then rubbing lemon peel around the edge of the glass. Drop the peel in and you have the best spirit- forward cocktail you will ever taste. Did you try the Sazerac? If so tag me on Instagram @elevateeventbartending

We bring skilled mixologists to your events and parties for a memorable drinking experience. From corporate events and weddings to intimate backyard parties, let us Elevate your next event! We even offer whiskey tastings and private cocktail experiences!

elevateeventbartending.com cheers@elevateeventbartending.com

(801) 477-4452 JANUARY 2025 // 5

Utah’s Original Natural Foods & Supplements Store Since 1973

Good Earth Markets Expands Local Offering with Acquisition of Fairweather Natural Foods Beloved Local Market Unveils a Fresh Identity

By Aimee L. Cook

In an era where sustainability and community-centric business practices are not just appreciated but expected, Good Earth Markets is leading the charge by acquiring Fairweather Natural Foods. This marks its seventh location in Utah. The rebranded store officially opened in December 2023. Fairweather Natural Foods has been a staple for eco-conscious products and fresh, natural café fare in Park City for over 30 years. However, in response to shifting market demands, owner Jen Rattray decided it was time for a change—a transformation that not only complements a growing industry, but also keeps her on as the company moves toward a brighter future.

ORDER PICKUP OR DELIVERY. FREE local delivery for orders $150+. FREE in-store pickup on all orders.

goodearthmarkets.com

(435) 649-4561 1270 Iron Horse Dr., Park City, UT 84060

Store Hours:

Mon-Sat: 8:30AM-7:00PM Sun: 10:00AM-5:00PM

6 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

The transition from Fairweather Natural Foods to Good Earth Markets is not merely a change of name and ownership. It signifies a broader shift in the company’s operations and product selections. “My decision to sell the business was ultimately the culmination of my desire to pass the baton, with the finding of an interested, thriving, and successful natural foods operation that I knew could take it to a next level,” said Jen. “Owning a small business is challenging in today’s world, and for some time, I have known that a larger collaboration would be necessary for the business to grow, and that this was beyond my own capabilities. Fairweather always prided itself on natural and organic, convenient and healthy, along with affordable. Good Earth operates with all of those principles on a much bigger scope, able to provide more selection and inventory in grocery, and in natural options for health and wellness. This was a great matchup that will benefit our community and I am proud that the legacy I created will expect a large organic produce section, continue on with an experienced company that values this aisles of natural foods, prepared foods, and mission, and also all of its employees.” snacks, and walls of frozen options. Good The timing for Good Earth Markets to take over Fairweather Earth Markets also brought in its signature Market couldn’t have been more opportune. Since its water machine. Reverse osmosis water can establishment in 1973, Good Earth has remained steadfast be purchased for $.29 a gallon. Bring your in its commitment to offering a diverse range of natural and own containers and refill all you can carry. organic products while being locally owned and operated. This Good Earth has set incredibly high transition allowed Good Earth to leverage its longstanding standards for the products it stocks on experience and financial stability as a thriving private its shelves, underscoring its commitment company, ready to expand its footprint within the community. to health and wellness. The company has The takeover by Good Earth, a brand synonymous with banned over 100 additives, chemicals, sustainability and quality, means customers can expect an and other substances commonly found enhanced shopping experience marked by an even broader in conventional products. This stringent selection of eco-conscious products. This strategic move selection process ensures that everything consolidates Good Earth’s position in the market and ensures available in the market is clean and the continuation of the legacy and values that Fairweather safe, allowing customers to shop with stood for. confidence. “We didn’t want to build a new store; we support the idea of “We are seeing very consistent growth as a the Dark Sky Initiatives that Park City has, we wanted to come company. We feel like being positioned in in naturally, and this was an ideal way for us to have a presence Park City allows us to provide something on the Wasatch Back,” said Spencer Pettit, Vice President of special to local residents and be a resource Marketing for Good Earth Markets to tourism,” Pettit added. “We are open to A pivotal element of this merger was the transition of the carrying what the customer wants; we are store’s beloved café, renowned among locals as “Park City’s one of the most flexible retailers you will Best” for its healthy offerings. In alignment with expanding find because we are small and local. Come product selections, the café has undergone a downsizing, by the store and let us know; we can do a refocusing the space to accommodate the broadened array of special order and get it in. We also deliver products available in the store. Salads, sandwiches, and soups within 15 miles of the store.” that customers have grown so fond of will remain. To learn more about Good Earth Good Earth was also able to secure the space next door to the Markets and their wide range of existing market, which tripled the store footprint, allowing for products, or to place an order for more grocery and supplement product lines. Customers can delivery, visit goodearthmarkets.com

RECIPE CORNER

SPONSORED BY GOOD EARTH MARKETS

n e v O h c Dut

BY LELA SANDSTROM, OWNER, HEBER VALLEY MEAT

INGREDIENTS: ▶ 3 pounds boneless beef chuck roast, cut into 1.5-inch pieces ▶ 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt ▶ 1 teaspoon ground black pepper ▶ olive oil ▶ 1 yellow onion, diced ▶ 5 cloves garlic, minced ▶ 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped ▶ 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, roughly chopped ▶ 2 tablespoons tomato paste ▶ 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce ▶ 1/2 cup red wine (or beef broth) ▶ 1/4 cup all-purpose flour ▶ 4 cups beef broth ▶ 3 Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced ▶ 2 dried bay leaves

Beef Stew

INSTRUCTIONS: ▶ Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. ▶ Season beef chunks with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil over high heat in a large Dutch oven and sear beef on all sides until nicely browned. Work in batches to not overcrowd the pan. ▶ Transfer the browned meat to a plate and set aside. It will not be fully cooked at this point. Leave the brown bits at the bottom of the pan and do not wipe clean. ▶ Heat some olive oil over medium heat and add onion, garlic, and carrots to the Dutch oven. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the fresh thyme, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce and cook until slightly softened, about 2-3 minutes. ▶ Add red wine, scraping the browned bits, and cook until reduced, about 3 minutes. ▶ Add flour and stir to coat. Add 4 cups of beef broth and stir until the flour is incorporated and starts to thicken. Add the seared beef, diced potatoes, and bay leaves. (If too thick, add more broth as needed) Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer for 5-7 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. ▶ Cover with an oven-safe lid. Finish cooking in the oven at 325 degrees F for 1 hour and 45 minutes, until the meat is tender. ▶ Remove bay leaves before serving and enjoy! (Don't forget the sourdough bread for dipping!)

JANUARY 2025 // 7

R E S T A U R A N T C O R N E R BY AIMEE L. COOK

PHOTOS BY AIMEE L. COOK AND COURTESY OF TUPELO

Tupelo Brings a Taste of the South to Park City Tupelo offers an exquisite culinary experience that pays homage to Southern roots while celebrating local ingredients. This unique dining spot, owned and operated by Matt and Maggie Harris, is a favorite for food enthusiasts seeking a blend of Southern comfort with a touch of Utah’s finest products. Chef Matt Harris’ culinary journey began in Atlanta, where his Southern heritage first shaped his understanding of flavor and hospitality. He honed his skills in the bustling kitchens of New York City as part of the esteemed Jean-Georges Group before bringing his expertise to Park City in 2009 to open J&G Grill at the St. Regis in Deer Valley. “I was only supposed to be in Utah for about a year, but I fell in love with the place and never left,” says Matt. At Tupelo, the fine-dining experience is artfully

wrapped in the comforting embrace of beloved staples. Diners are treated to an elevated take on traditional dishes, where familiar flavors meet refined presentations. A meal at Tupelo might begin with warm, flaky buttermilk biscuits served alongside honey butter, setting an inviting tone. As the meal progresses, perfectly crispy fried chicken with housemade bread-and-butter pickles showcases a balance of seasoning and tenderness, while the Rocky Mountain Elk bolognese with local mushrooms is a dish that “sticks to the ribs,” one might say. Since opening Tupelo in 2015, Matt has been committed to sourcing ingredients from local producers, ranchers, and farmers. This ingredientfocused philosophy ensures diners experience the freshest produce and meats, all thoughtfully prepared to highlight their natural flavors.

LUSH’S BBQ 7182 Silver Creek Road, Park City, UT 84098

(435)333-2831 • lushsbbq.com RICHIE LUSH: The Man Behind the Meat Richie Lush is a man of many talents and interests, but spend a little time with him and it’s clear he is most proud of the best Tennessee BBQ you’ve ever tasted. For 16 hour intervals he will be slow-cooking meats and tending the smokers and whipping up sumptuous sides and desserts he has taken years to perfect...all in dedication to serving his customers a meal they won’t forget. 8 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

“I do bring a lot of grains and grits in from the South, just to add touches,” Matt says. “We do a take on beef and barley, where we take barley grown in Idaho and a wagyu sirloin that we sous-vide for two hours, then we also do beef cheeks from the wagyu. We don’t do it in a stew form. We don’t take ourselves too seriously, keeping it fun.”

Whether guests enjoy a dinner for two or a gathering with friends, Tupelo’s staff ensures every need is attended to, echoing the warmth and hospitality synonymous with Southern dining.

Tupelo’s ambiance is as inviting as its

menu. The restaurant’s decor reflects a bit of a rustic feel you would expect in a mountain town, yet elegant touches throughout, including the large wine cellar, create a welcoming atmosphere. Diners are encouraged to relax and enjoy their meals, making each visit memorable. “We are always trying to add things [to the menu] that are approachable, but do it in

Seasoned with Salt LLC was established on the East Coast as an intimate catering company for families and businesses that wished to embrace the hospitality and avoid the pretense that comes with dining out. We offer Personal Chef services and a Concierge service for those visiting the Summit and Wasatch counties.

CONTACT CHEF JOI TODAY! (845) 391-2167 • TASTE@SEASONWITHSALT.INFO @JUSTJOIPARKCITY JANUARY 2025 // 9

Unwind after a day on the slopes with our brand-new Pick 2 for $25 Après Ski Menu, available daily from 11 AM to 5 PM at both Overlook and On The Rocks. Pair incredible flavors with a cozy atmosphere to elevate your après-ski experience. Then, turn Thursdays into your new favorite night with live music at On The Rocks from 5 PM to 7 PM. Locally inspired bites, great vibes, and tunes from local artists to match. Your ultimate Park City après awaits.

909 West Peace Tree Trail Heber City, Utah 84032

(435) 575-1700 WWW.BLACKROCKMOUNTAINRESORT.COM

Social Aid & Pleasure Club

Green Drink In a mixing tin with no ice 1.5 oz Ange Vert Herbal Liqueuer 0.5 oz Preserve Liqueur 0.5 oz Lemon juice 0.5 oz Cane 0.5 oz Egg White Dry shake for 30 seconds then ice shake Strain into Coupe

Welcome to the extension of our living room, where we invite you to experience Alpine Distilling’s awardwinning spirits and inventive cocktails and gather in the name of community. Join us for cocktails & tastings, live music, special events, and spirit bottle sales.

Alpine Martini In a shaker full of ice 1.5 oz Persistent Vodka 0.75 oz Preserve Liqueur Shake hard to bruise contents Strain into Coupe Garnish with orange peel

Bramble In a mixing tin with 1 scoop of ice 1.5 oz Alpine Elevated Gin 0.5 oz Preserve Liqueur 0.75 oz Jam 0.5 Lemon juaice 0.25 Cane Shake 6-8 times, pour into Rocks glass Garnish with 3 blueberries

Lafayette Lemonade

364 Main Street, Park City UT 84060 Main Entrance on the corner of 4th & Swede Alley Tuesday through Saturday 4-10pm and Sunday 2-7pm

1.5 Alpine Blended Bourbon 0.5 Lafayette spiced Bourbon Whiskey 1.0 Lemon Juice 0.75 Demerara Serve over crushed ice

For more information or to inquire about private events, weddings, tastings, or other custom experiences, please contact events@alpinedistilling.com

www.alpineparkcity.com www.alpinedistilling.com

www.alpinedistilling.com

@alpineparkcity

@alpinedistilling

@alpinedistilling JANUARY 2025 // 11

The Local

Community news from KPCW Welcome to The Local, your source for community news from your friendly neighborhood public radio station. KPCW is the only not-for-profit source of daily news across Summit and Wasatch counties. We have hand-selected a few recent articles that reflect the happenings in our vibrant, eclectic and engaged community. Be sure to go to kpcw.org to read–and listen–like a local.

Canyons parking garage back to original two-phase construction schedule By Connor Thomas

TCFC Finance originally planned to build a five-story parking garage for Canyons Village over the course of two summers. Summit County planners say they recently received word from company representatives that TCFC has returned to that plan. It tried to build the entire garage in 2024 but couldn’t break ground before ski season. Now the plan is to build two levels next summer, and the other three could open for the 2026-2027 ski season. Peter Barnes, the county’s top planning official, expects work to begin in the spring. The 1,840-spot garage would consolidate the rest of Canyons Village parking and would feature a four-lane drop-off area and electric vehicle chargers. Later, TCFC would like to transform the space near the Cabriolet lift into a pedestrian plaza.

Park City moving forward with new transportation initiatives this winter By Parker Malatesta

One of this season’s pilot programs is a vanpool service offered by the rental car company Enterprise. Park City employers will now be able to set up vanpool groups for employees who live in the Wasatch Back with similar commutes. The city will offer $750 subsidies per van per month to businesses using the program. To help public transit riders when they come to Main Street, Park City has installed new storage lockers in the Old Town Transit Center. The lockers are big enough to hold ski boots and a helmet. They cost $1 per hour with a daily maximum of $10. The transportation department has also moved to using the Transit mobile app for riders to plan trips and track buses. High Valley Transit and the Utah Transit Authority in Salt Lake City already use the app.

Summit County luxury resort Blue Sky Ranch seeks rezone to expand By Connor Thomas

Nearby residents objected to the resort’s expansion plans at a recent planning commission meeting. Blue Sky Ranch is in the hills along Old Lincoln Highway, down the road from Wanship. It features over 60 units of lodging, the High West Distillery, restaurants and equestrian facilities. Owners Mike and Barb Phillips want to more than double the resort’s offerings with 72 more units of lodging, either suites or houses, and more amenities. However, about a dozen Wanship residents who spoke at the hearing don’t think Blue Sky’s proposal succeeded in keeping the community rural. Eastern Summit County planning commissioners instructed the resort to respond to concerns in writing at a future meeting. After that, they’ll vote whether to recommend the expansion to the Summit County Council.

Get your Park City and Summit County local news in your email inbox every morning for free! Subscribe to “The Local” at KPCW.org. KPCW is a nonprofit, NPR affiliate located in Park City, Utah, that relies on reader and listener donations for our programming. Like our content? Please consider making a donation at KPCW.org. 12 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

COMMUNITY CORNER

BY SANDY GELDHOF SPONSORED BY KPCW-FM, PARK CITY PHOTOS BY LEXIE LARSON AND ALLISON BLAKE WILLIAMS

Lucky Ones Serves Up Coffee with a Little Side of Joy ALLISON BLAKE WILLIAMS FOUND HER CALLING IN THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS AT WORK There are many establishments in Park City where you can grab your cup of morning Joe, but few are surprised to hear you’ll also receive a complimentary side of purpose, meaning, gratitude, and just overall happiness when you slip into Lucky Ones Coffee, located inside Old Town’s Park City Library. For Lucky Ones’ Community Engagement Manager, Allison Blake Williams, this dash of meaning speaks directly to her life’s mission. A seasoned world traveler with a penchant for wanderlust, Allison, along with her husband Aaron, were on a serious mission to explore the world when a temperamental RV (and perhaps pure luck) landed them in Park City, a fate she testifies “changed her whole world.” Road warriors by nature, Allison and her husband, already married 22 years, quit their jobs and embarked on a whirlwind road trip, visiting 40 of the United States, five provinces in Canada, Mexico, and several European countries, living off the income from several of their vacation properties in Hawaii, California, and Nevada. As they began the next phase of their journey, visiting the rest of the western states and Canada, their top-of-the-line RV suffered mechanical failure and they found themselves in Park City while repairs could be worked out. “Once we got to Park City, we knew we had found an amazing place and we rented a hotel room for a week, and then another week, and then another,” remembers Allison. However, as winter approached and, never having lived in a cold climate, they left for warmer options, but “we knew our hearts were back in Park City.” After a few months of traveling through South Carolina, California, and Arizona and even volunteering as balloon handlers in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, their yearning for the quaint mountain town that stole their hearts won out. Returning to Park City in the spring of 2023, they decided to embrace all four seasons and the rest, as they say, is history. As the couple reevaluated the next phase of their lives, they settled on the pursuit of happiness. “Getting back into the workforce, we really wanted

to work jobs that brought us joy,” says Allison. “We didn’t want to get back into corporate madness. We were burned out. When I heard about Lucky Ones, and had my first interview, one of the founders, Katie Manhart, brought that kind of energy, such happiness. It was a great match.” Lucky Ones, a nonprofit coffee shop that employs and empowers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, has been in the Park City Library building for seven years through a partnership with the library community, which donated the space to the group. With past experience working with neuro-diverse children, Allison stepped into the position of Community Engagement Manager, and in her role helps the shop’s volunteer group with training, volunteer communication, in-house and community events, and is a member of the Park City Rotary Club on behalf of the coffee shop, a 501(c)(3) organization. In her mind, the match was a win-win. “When I decided to re-enter the work force after years of traveling, I wanted to do it in an intentional way,” Allison continues, “So, working for this amazing non-profit was the perfect fit for finding joy and happiness at work. Being a part of something bigger than myself, being there for my Lucky Ones team––it’s everything.” With the intention of getting more public awareness for the business and its staff, along with fundraising activities for the community, Allison says that she and the owners have big goals for the future. “Our mission is to begin programming for our neuro-diverse staff that includes classes to enrich their everyday lives including cooking, makeup application, even matchmaking events. It is really needed in the community and the goal is to provide that in the future.”

“Getting back into the workforce we really wanted to work jobs that brought us joy.”

Katie has found in Allison a kindred spirit. “Allison brings such a warm energy to the team. She is so supportive and has made personal connections with every single one of our staff members,” Katie shares. “She was supposed to be on a 3-month contract and by the time winter was done, families were in tears, that’s the impact she has.” Katie went on to say that Allison is ingrained in everyone’s life. “She is amazing. What Allison focuses on is getting Lucky Ones and our mission out there. She’s a great representation of who we are. She’s warm and welcoming, she draws you in.”

its inception. “There is no shortage of fun,” says Allison. “Everyday, someone on the team says something so hilarious and epic…it’s all laughs every day. It’s something you just have to come into the coffee shop to experience. Working here fills my soul with happiness and being there for my team is so gratifying. I feel like I am making a difference professionally and it’s a joy to come to work.”

Allison, who worked as a realtor for 15 years and as an executive with Macy’s Department stores for 20 years before moving to Park City, also serves as the events and publicity specialist at the library, including operations and events at the Santy Auditorium. In addition, she spins records as an on-air deejay at KPCW, but her true joy comes from her work with the staff at Lucky Ones, most of whom have been with the nonprofit since

A self-proclaimed morning person, Allison recommends to new customers the “Presley Special.” “I love the pumpkin hot chocolate! It’s one of our employee’s favorite drinks because Presley literally offers it to everyone and because it’s her favorite drink,” beams Allison, “and she takes such joy in making it. So, it’s my favorite drink because I love seeing her joy in making it for customers.” And, insider tip…a side of joy is on the house! JANUARY 2025 // 13

Drink like a local!

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EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR

ELUME

BY JENNIFER BRASSEY

FAVORITE FIXTURES As we bid farewell to 2024, we're reflecting on the brilliance of our favorite fixtures from the past year— pieces that lit up homes and inspired creativity. Now, we’re thrilled to welcome 2025 with a renewed focus on the future of lighting design, showcasing innovative fixtures that bring style, warmth, and timeless elegance to every space.

4 2 0 2 of

We invite you to visit our showroom, where the glow of inspiration awaits. Explore the radiant designs that will shape the year ahead, alongside enduring classics that have stood the test of time. Let’s make 2025 the year your home shines its brightest. Schedule an appointment today to update your home’s illumination, and let us help you create a space that truly sparkles.

JANUARY 2025 // 15

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JAN 27 HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE DAY FEB 2 GROUNDHOG DAY

DAILY THROUGH APRIL

2025 Gondola Art Stroll @Canyons Village at Park City Mountain 4000 Canyons Resort Drive, Park City Join us for the Gondola Art Stroll! We invite you to escape to another world by exploring six different art installations, each enclosed within a retired Red Pine Gondola cabin. These cabins are placed around Canyons Village; see map on website for locations. As an added bonus, within each gondola cabin, there are hidden items for you to find. Time: Daily 8am-10pm • Cost: Free Website: cvma.com/gondola-art-stroll/

JAN 4, JAN 18, FEB 14

2024-2025 Silver Sky Nights and Fireworks @Canyons Resort 4000 Canyons Resort Drive, Park CIty Join us this winter for Silver Sky Nights! Live music, treats, and spectacular fireworks displays await throughout the season. Each event will begin at 4pm, with fireworks starting at varying times. Presented by the CVMA. Silver Sky Nights Event times, bands, and offerings may vary and are subject to change. Weather, conditions, and operations permitting. Time: 4-6:45pm • Cost: Free Website: https://cvma.com/events/

Sundance Film Festival Sundance Film Festival will celebrate its 41st Anniversary in 2025. Come to Park City to enjoy the best of independent filmmaking. Website: www.sundance.org

JAN 31

Last Friday Gallery Stroll @Historic Main Street, Park City Hosted by the Park City Gallery Association, the Last Friday Gallery Stroll, is a fun (and free) monthly community event dedicated to highlighting artists and special exhibits at art galleries throughout town. Park City’s art scene continues to thrive, offering a robust variety of unique art collections from local, national, and international artists. On the last Friday of each month, nineteen of our art galleries open their doors for visitors and locals alike to enjoy light refreshments and to admire their latest art installations. It’s the perfect way to explore the Park City art scene while enjoying scenic Historic Main Street and our beautiful alpine evenings. Time: 6-9pm • Cost: Free Website: parkcitygalleryassociation.com/ Winter Festival @Wasatch Mountain State Park 1281 Warm Springs Road, Midway Wasatch Mountain State Park is a beautiful winter wonderland open yearround for exploration. Enjoy one hour of cross-country skiing or snowshoeing on the groomed trails that meander across the golf courses. Starting time slots are available at 10am, 11am, 12pm, and 1pm. You can also try out a fat tire bike (first come, first served.) Enjoy games out by the pond or just après-ski and relax at the Visitor Center. Enjoy yummy food, hot chocolate, and other treats. Enter for a chance to win some awesome prizes. Be sure to arrive early for shuttle transportation to the Visitor Center and proper fitting of equipment. Advance registration is required. Time: 10am-2pm Cost: $6 adult admission $4 child (11 and younger) Website: https://stateparks.utah.gov/ parks/wasatch-mountain/park-events/ FEB 1

JAN 20 DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY

JAN 16-19

DAT E S T O R E M E M B E R :

JAN 23-FEB 2

January

Nordic Super Qualifier @Soldier Hollow Nordic Center 2002 Soldier Hollow Lane, Midway Soldier Hollow welcomes back over 700 youth cross-country skiers and biathletes from all over the West, ages 6 to 20 for this Super Qualifier. This prestigious event will feature some of the finest collegiate and youth athletes competing in cross-country skiing disciplines. As part of the Rocky Mountain Intercollegiate Ski Association (RMISA) circuit, the Ute Invite is a key competition that helps determine standings and qualifications for future championships. The challenging trails of Soldier Hollow provide the perfect location for this event, promising thrilling races and showcasing exceptional athletic talent. More to come, including a schedule for each day. The Basecamp Café in the NEW Nordic Center lodge will be open during the races. They will have hot drinks, beverages, lunch offerings and snacks available for purchase. Time: 8am-4pm daily, see race schedule for details • Cost: Free to spectators Website: utaholympiclegacy.org/event/

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.

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Shop Local this Winter Season

1500 Kearns Blvd, Space F110/F210, Park City, UT Open Daily Wednesday-Sunday // 12-6pm The Holiday Makers Market is a creative marketplace celebrating local makers by providing local entrepreneurs and artists an opportunity to showcase their creative products and tell their stories to the community.

LAST FRIDAY ART GALLERY STROLL IN PARTNERSHIP WITH PARK CITY GALLERY ASSOCIATION

SAVE THE DATE: JANUARY 31 The Art Gallery Strolls promise an unforgettable evening enjoying the vibrant art scene of our community while savoring the magic of Park City and beyond.

FOR MORE EVENT & PROGRAM INFORMATION VISIT: PCSCARTS.ORG

JANUARY 2025 // 17

BUSINESS PROFILE

ADIB'S RUG GALLERY

SUBMITTED BY HAMID ADIB • PHOTOS BY DANA KLEIN

ADIB’S RUGS:

A Legacy of Art and Heritage in Salt Lake City Nestled within the historic Villa Theatre on Highland Drive in Salt Lake City, Adib’s Rugs stands as a beacon of tradition and artistry, offering some of the world’s finest hand-woven Oriental and Persian rugs in an array of styles, including contemporary, transitional, and traditional designs. Since Dr. Hamid Adib and his family established their presence in California in 1974 and expanded to Utah in 1987, the gallery has become a cherished destination for interior designers, collectors, and enthusiasts who value the timeless beauty of handcrafted rugs. Dr. Adib, a man of both science and art with a doctorate in mechanical engineering from the University of Utah, has dedicated his life to preserving the rich cultural and artistic heritage of hand-woven rugs. For him, these masterpieces are far more than decorative items—they are the essence of a home, heirlooms imbued with the memories and stories of generations.

“This business is part of my heritage; my father and ancestors approached it with immense pride, and it is my responsibility to maintain it and pass it on to the next generation,” Dr. Adib explains. “Hand-woven rugs are more than art; they are a spiritual thread that links the past to the present. A rug truly becomes the soul of the house.” Adib’s Rugs boasts an extraordinary collection of pieces crafted by skilled artisans from Iran, India, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkey, Morocco, China, the Caucasus, and beyond. Each rug reflects a masterful blend of techniques and aesthetics, creating a universal language of beauty that transcends cultures. Dr. Adib has been a staunch advocate for ethical practices in the rug industry, ensuring artisans receive fair compensation and helping to preserve this ancient craft for future generations. Dr. Adib’s commitment extends beyond the gallery walls. As a board member, he

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participates in numerous cultural, health, academic, and social initiatives locally and internationally. As chairman of the board for the Heal Child Skin Disease Foundation, he leads efforts to improve the lives of children suffering from Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a rare and debilitating skin condition. Many of these children live in regions where rug-weaving is a cultural tradition, forging a meaningful connection between the craft and his humanitarian work.

“These patients often live in areas where hand-woven rugs have been a tradition for centuries,” Dr. Adib shares. “We feel a responsibility to help them, whether through surgeries, medical supplies, or other treatments. Their resilience inspires us to do more." Dr. Adib’s love for art also finds expression in his vibrant paintings, with 100% of the proceeds supporting charitable initiatives

and improving the lives of patients impacted by EB and other illnesses, both locally and globally. Adib’s Rugs is more than a gallery—it is a sanctuary of culture, craftsmanship, and compassion. Through his dedication to preserving the art of rug weaving and uplifting lives, Dr. Hamid Adib continues to weave a legacy as enduring and intricate as the masterpieces that grace his gallery.

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JANUARY 2025 // 19

UNLOCKING THE SECRETS TO SUCCESSFUL REMOTE By Aimee L. Cook WORK FOR WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS Have you mastered the art of working from home, or are you still battling the chaos? For many women small business owners, juggling the demands of a thriving enterprise from the comfort of home can feel like a Herculean task. But fear not—success is within reach. The rise of remote work has been a game changer, offering flexible hours that can accommodate the multifaceted lives of women entrepreneurs. However, without clear strategies, time management and multitasking can quickly spiral out of control. TIME MANAGEMENT—YOUR MOST VALUABLE ASSET Set Boundaries: Establishing distinct work hours helps delineate professional and personal time. Communicate these boundaries to family and friends to minimize interruptions. Prioritize Ruthlessly: Use the Eisenhower Matrix, a decision matrix separating tasks by urgency and importance, to keep your focus sharp. This technique can help you allocate your energy where it matters most. Automate and Delegate: Leverage technology to streamline repetitive tasks. Tools like Zapier can automate your workflow, while virtual assistants can handle administrative duties, freeing you to focus on growing your business.

MANAGING DISTRACTIONS Distractions can significantly derail productivity, but with strategic approaches, they can be minimized. Create a Dedicated Workspace: Set up your workspace in a quiet area, free from non-work-related disruptions. Using noisecanceling headphones or playing ambient noise can help maintain concentration. Limit Digital Interruptions: Turn off non-essential notifications and use apps or browser extensions designed to block distracting websites and apps during work hours. Techniques like setting specific times to check emails and messages can preserve uninterrupted work time. Implement Time Blocks: Schedule specific times for specific tasks and dedicate those periods strictly to work-related activities. Communicating this schedule to others can help manage expectations and reduce unexpected intrusions. Stay Organized: Keeping your workspace and digital files organized minimizes time spent searching for resources and increases focus on tasks. Tools like digital calendars and task management apps help you stay on track with your daily objectives. Mindful Breaks: Integrate brief pauses into your routine to recharge and refocus. Techniques like the Pomodoro method encourage work sessions of 25 minutes followed by a 5-minute break, optimizing concentration and stamina.

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WBCUTAH.ORG • 801-328-5066 • INFO@WBCUTAH.ORG 20 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

HEMPED PARK CITY BRINGS BACK THE SIMPLE POWER OF NATURE By Aimee L. Cook • Photos by Deb DeKoff

Marilee Scruton sought a return to nature’s simple, healing powers when she founded Hemped Park City in 2020. This woman-owned business is setting a new standard for wellness with its line of 100% organically grown, non-GMO, hempderived CBD products. The story of Hemped Park City began as many great stories do, with a personal quest for an alternative. Marilee, driven by a desire to find effective, natural solutions for sleep, stress, and pain, turned to hemp-derived CBD. Her commitment to quality and purity led her to open Hemped Park City, where every product is crafted with care to provide the purest relief. “I have always been interested in alternative healing, given my passion for natural healing and ingredients, everything fell into place to open up a CBD boutique,” Marilee explained. “I was introduced to a very successful group out of New York, Hemped NYC, and I got established by carrying a good amount of their products.”

But Marilee’s journey didn’t stop there. She also recently introduced Bee’s Knees Wellness, another brand that embodies her belief in holistic well-being. Bee’s Knees Wellness is not just about providing products; it’s a movement aimed at elevating the everyday lives of its community by focusing on physical, mental, and financial wellness. At the core of the company’s mission lies a commitment to empower individuals through education and inspiration, encouraging them to actively engage in their health journeys. This extension of Marilee’s vision seeks to guide people toward becoming their best selves in an inviting and supportive environment. Hemped Park City and Bee’s Knees Wellness offers a diverse range of CBD products tailored for both people and pets, each designed to address common ailments in a natural way. For those who struggle with sleep, their CBD gummies offer a soothing solution, inviting the user into a restful night’s slumber. For stress management, Glow Up Collagen powder can bring one back to the tranquil simplicity of nature, leaving behind the chaos of modern life. And for those enduring persistent pain, Hemped Park City offers salves and creams that promise relief anchored in nature’s wisdom and research. “My staff is very well versed [educated] I have put them through a CBD academy where they get a certification as a CBD expert,” Marilee said. “What is interesting about this space is that things

“I have always been interested in alternative healing, given my passion for natural healing and ingredients, everything fell into place to open up a CBD boutique.” are constantly evolving. We strive to be a source of accurate education and information in a safe environment to ask those questions that you might not be able to get the answers to elsewhere.” Hemped Park City’s additional appeal lies in its universal target audience. Whether you’re a competitive athlete seeking to enhance recovery, a professional navigating daily stresses, or a pet owner looking to ease your furry friend’s discomfort, there’s a product designed for you. Marilee invites everyone to experience the healing power of CBD, and educating the public about CBD is of utmost importance. For Marilee and her many customers, this is more than a business—it’s a movement back to a simpler, kinder way of living.

SUPPORTING THE WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES OF PARK CITY JANUARY 2025 // 21

C O V E R S T O R Y BY MARITZA ROÑO REFUERZO

PHOTOS BY DEB DEKOFF

Enrique Sanchez DARING TO DREAM

22 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

© Best Version Media WHEN I WAS INFORMED VIA A GROUP EMAIL WITH NEIGHBORS’ PUBLISHER AND CONTENT COORDINATOR THAT I’D BE WRITING ABOUT ENRIQUE SANCHEZ— PARKITE, COMMUNITY LEADER, AND LATINO ADVOCATE/ACTIVIST—FOR THEIR COVER FEATURE, DEB DEKOFF, THE ASSIGNED PHOTOGRAPHER (ALSO KNOWN TO ME AS MY YOUNGER SON’S ADVISORY TEACHER AT ECKER HILL MIDDLE SCHOOL) WROTE, “I’M SO THRILLED YOU’LL BE INTERVIEWING ENRIQUE!” CHIMING IN SHORTLY THEREAFTER WAS ENRIQUE HIMSELF: “WHAT AN AMAZING OPPORTUNITY. THANK YOU! I’M EXCITED!” Despite the fact that I’ve lived in this small mountain town for almost five-and-a-half years, I’m always astounded by the six degrees (ha, more like below-zero!) of separation principle that manifests itself before me nearly every other day of the week, especially while being a writer for this fast-growing magazine and running a reading lounge through my family’s nonprofit. A week after we were introduced on email, I sent Enrique a message about a possible date for our interview. When he responded, I already felt enveloped by his congeniality. From the impressive information I’d gathered about him online, my emotions began to echo his: amazed, excited, and thankful for this opportunity. Enrique suggested Park City Gardens as our meeting place. I remember purchasing succulents here for the lounge, wowed by the greenhouse, observing coffee drinkers at mosaic-tiled patio tables, reminiscent of a street scene in Paris or Prague. I also recall thinking, “Wait, where’s a café?” I’m surprised by the number of people waiting inside this quaint but too-tiny space on a late wintry Sunday morning in mid-November. I’m not accustomed to seeing any sort of non-skiresort in Park City bustling, except for the recently opened Barnes & Noble at Newpark Town Center. I arrived early, so I set my backpack onto a tall counter stool. I’ve done my research on Enrique, and he and I have connected on LinkedIn. He is the Intermountain State Director at American Business Immigration Coalition and, from what I’ve heard through the grapevine (by way of the aforementioned “below-zero degrees of separation”), Enrique grew up in Prospector Park. He also already has had the privilege of meeting two US presidents. I continue to eye the café’s front door, which is blocked by a large group of youngish skiers. Enrique is only twenty-six years old, so I wonder if he’s “lost in the crowd,” although I find it hard to believe that he’d personify both the literal and figurative meaning of this idiom. Enrique Sanchez is a “Dreamer.” By the end of this story, you’ll see that what he embodies is the traditional definition of a dreamer—not one who lives in a world of imagination and fantasy, but a visionary. DACA, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, has protected approximately 835,000 immigrants who have been brought to the US as minors and remain undocumented, and who also are known as Dreamers, a term that stems from the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act, legislation that would give immigrant youth legal status and a path to citizenship. Enrique and I spot each other immediately as he walks in, navigating his way through the skiers. The diamond studs on both his pierced ears are just as sparkly as his smile, and his hair, akin to my younger son’s, is stylishly slicked down, making me realize that my 11-year-old has been trying to look hip as of late. Enrique leans in for a hug, as if greeting an old friend. While we wait for our beverages, I raise my eyebrows at the display behind the register and inquire about its contents. The cashier describes the scone, which is covered in white icing; she also offers the pumpkin chocolate chip loaf. I decide to get both for us to share. Enrique and I are engaged in conversation from the get-go. I scan the area, noticing there aren’t any seats available. Just as he suggests we look for a table in the greenhouse, I imagine us being transported to a café in atmospheric Europe. “We were scolded for speaking Spanish in school because they couldn’t understand what we were saying,” recounts Enrique, after sharing with me that he attended McPolin Elementary, where both of my sons enrolled when we first moved from San Francisco, primarily due to its Spanish Dual Language Immersion (DLI) model. Naturally, I’m confused about Enrique and his classmates being “scolded for speaking Spanish”—so that’s when he clarifies, “DLI didn’t start until 2013 or 2014. The district would fly teachers in from Spain, then, over the years, they had a pool of teachers with bilingual qualifications.” Enrique’s first experience with Spanish-language instruction, outside his home, was at Ecker, where sixth-grade language-learning was divided among Spanish, French, and Mandarin JANUARY 2025 // 23

confirms the contrary. “That was the thing about LIA; it started for Latinos, but the requirements are just being bilingual, and not just in Spanish.”

Enrique chose French. “I wanted to challenge myself, although I still could understand French without knowing it, because it’s so close to Spanish.” So, from sixth grade to his final year at Park City High School (PCHS), he learned his third language, allowing him to participate in a student-exchange program through the city. Park City’s sister city, Courchevel, France is where Enrique and one other student set out for a four-month-long adventure, 5,000 miles away from home.

Every Friday, Enrique continues to reminisce, Anna Williams would teach the LIA class. “Anna remains, to this day, my friend. I wouldn’t have gotten into college without her.” Enrique went on to attend University of Utah, studying political science; he also received a degree from Salt Lake Community College in criminal justice. Deb, whose beautiful photos of Enrique accompany this story, had asked me to find out if Enrique was still planning to apply to law school.

“I wanted to get out of Utah,” recalls Enrique, “but I missed my family. If something happened, I couldn’t just come home for the weekend.” For another four months of his senior year, his family hosted a 15-year-old student from France. “That year was a rollercoaster,” Enrique says, chuckling. “She and I did everything together! It was such a huge growing experience.” Also “huge” in his growth, Enrique emphasizes, was his involvement with Latinos in Action (LIA). Back in 2001, LIA had hosted its very first Youth Leadership Conference at Mountain View High School in Provo. After receiving its 501(c)(3) status, LIA began offering a program with a year-long elective course focusing on four pillars which, according to its website, are “leveraging personal and cultural assets, excelling in education, serving the community, and developing leadership skills.” Enrique was president of LIA at PCHS, explaining the group was very much like student council. However, instead of for school, he says, “We planned events that would benefit the community, to engage and bring together different cultures.” Because of the organization’s name, one might think the group welcomed only Latinos, but Enrique

24 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

“Ms. DeKoff is great! She was never my teacher, but her son and I played youth football together. Being able to meet all these kids the summer before middle school was so beneficial. I met students from other cultures; it was my first team experience.” Having participated in track and field before attending Ecker, Enrique enthusiastically adds, “Track is a team sport, but you’re competing against yourself. In football, I learned all about my teammates and got to hang out with them! It was a community-builder for sure.” The word “community,” while transcribing my interview with Enrique, predictably had come up at least 20 times. Community, community building, and community service—the third of which reminds me of what Rebeca Gonzalez, a sixth-grade Spanish DLI educator, shared with me about Latinos. Rebeca leads Ecker’s LIA group, whom I had the opportunity to speak to earlier this year. She had made clear to me, “We’re all about community service. I’ll make sure my students go to Lectura Lounge!” Enrique laughs, recognizing yet another six degrees of separation— from Deb, now to Rebeca, who taught my older son at Ecker and currently is my younger son’s Spanish language arts teacher and who also sat next to me while we reviewed grant applications for Park City

JANUARY 2025 // 25

© Best Version Media Education Foundation in the spring of 2021. “Rebeca’s a close friend,” says Enrique. “She’s two years older, and our families are from the same town, Quechultenango. Her pathway has been similar to mine. We’re on the (Park City) Community Foundation board together.” Enrique serves on several boards, including University of Utah Latinx Alumni’s. Also a proud member of the Park City Youth Football board of directors, he asserts, “I continue to be on this board because I know how important that was for me. I’m the Latino liaison.” For a long time, Enrique adds, he and Rebeca were the only Latino voices in Park City’s community. “We’re both on many different boards. Sometimes I feel like we aren’t making the impact we want to because we’re being stretched thin.” I point at Enrique and nod my head excitedly, because all too familiar to me is this exact feeling, of spreading oneself too thin. Deb had described Rebeca as an “outlier,” a term not as familiar to me, meaning she does so much for the community that her efforts at the school sometimes go unrecognized. Being an outlier has never discouraged this daring Dreamer from dreaming. After high school, Enrique worked at the front desk at PC MARC, where his bosses were heavily invested in a sliding-scale fee for members. “They brought me into that conversation and asked how they could make it equitable, so everyone could use their facility,” says Enrique. Little did he know that this would lead to attending City Hall meetings with them. “They valued my experience,” he fondly recalls. “Shortly after the Trump administration rescinded DACA, the city issued a resolution (about DACA) and had me come speak to them at their meeting. It was my first city council experience ever! I was 19, and I remember the gallery being all white, where you didn’t see people of color or Latinos participating at these kinds of things. A lot of the issues made in this room are things that affect everyone.” Enrique points out that his role developed into getting more Latinos involved in local politics. He worked closely with the community engagement team for the city, then moved over to the police department, where he served as their community technical specialist. Enrique had always wanted to become a law enforcement officer, but because of his immigrant status, he couldn’t, which led to other prospective jobs falling through. “Chief (Wade) Carpenter and his leadership were very open to having me, but I explicitly said, ‘If this is something I can’t do, I’d rather you just tell me now,’ but the chief said, ‘No, we’ll find a way to have you on the team.’” “We started the cadet program,” Enrique says, beaming. “That was challenging in itself because it was a brand-new project we had to develop curriculum for, for recruitment, uniforms, things I had

never done in my life, but it was rewarding to actually see our cadets on Main Street helping at special events, wearing their uniforms, reporters coming to interview them. We had a great showing of Latino students! I know of at least one who was a part of our group that’s now a sheriff deputy.” Very recently, Enrique met with Chief Carpenter. “In 2021, there was legislation in Utah that would allow non-citizens to become police officers, so the chief had called me while I was in DC doing an internship,” explains Enrique. “He said, ‘Hey, there’s this hearing at the (Utah) State legislature, would you be willing to testify for it?’ So that got me involved, all the way to the committee at the state Senate. I kinda became a poster child for that bill.” Enrique recounts being able to speak to both sides about the benefits, knowing police departments were struggling to find qualified candidates. “That’s just another aspect of it all, the importance of having police officers who speak the language to the community they serve. This is something we struggle with in Park City, so I’m working on it to be specifically about DACA. Regardless of the administration in office, the police continue to face a labor shortage. The way I see it, is if I don’t move it, I don’t think anyone else will.” At this point in our conversation, my mind is blown. I’m old enough to be Enrique’s mom, which makes me think of how darn proud this kid’s parents must be. Enrique’s father, Galdino, who worked at Adolph’s Restaurant in the late ’90s until the pandemic, had left Mexico before his family followed. “He never received a formal education,” says Enrique, “but Adolph called him a chef. Unfortunately, the restaurant closed, which made

26 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

© Best Version Media it difficult for my dad to laterally move elsewhere. He had to go back to working $15-anhour jobs again, despite his experience.” Enrique reflects about his parents “giving it all up” for their children. His mother, Beatriz, decided to be a stay-at-home parent for Enrique and his siblings, which Enrique says was “so good for them.” Oftentimes, Beatriz doled out advice. “She’d tell us, ‘if it’s going to benefit you and the community, do it,’” he remembers, which prompts me to ask, “Did your parents instill community-mindedness in you, or is it something that’s ingrained in the Latino culture?” Enrique pauses; I notice his left diamond earring catching a ray of sunlight through the top of the greenhouse. “It’s a little of both. It’s like, what do they call it, a guilt in a way. When my grandmother passed away, my parents weren’t able to go to her funeral. One thing my mom kept repeating in her mind was when they left Mexico, she had told my grandmother they were going for only a year. So, to leave, and never see her again…” Enrique’s voice quavers, trailing off. I catch my breath as I peer into his eyes; he wipes away a tear, continuing, “It’s just that…I can’t ever imagine leaving my mom for the rest of my life, and so the fact that they all did that, to give us a better life, it was like, I need to do something.” Growing up, Enrique acknowledges the lack of Latino male mentors, so he wants to see more male students stepping up to the plate. “Latinos are instilled with machismo. They have to provide for family, and this pulls them away from being a part of the community.” Enrique reiterates, softly, “It’s being stretched thin. You can’t stand out.” I offer him our leftover scone. “I appreciate you, Maritza,” he says. “Can I get a picture with you? I’m a picture guy.” The greenhouse background is vibrant in our selfie, matching our wide smiles. Oh, Enrique—you are so, so much more than that. Like those gems adorning your ears, you shimmer. You stand out. JANUARY 2025 // 27

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Danielle M. Meister, CFF®, CDFA® Phone: 833-673-7373 daniellem@madronafinancial.com

SCRAPS APPROACH An investor wants to do a section 1031 exchange with their $3M investment property, but the replacement property is being purchased for $2.3 million, well under the $3 million needed for full replacement. By placing the remaining $700k into a DST, this issue is solved, and full tax deferral is preserved.

inherit property management duties, a DST took them both out of the property management business, eliminating that risk. DEFERRED MAINTENANCE COSTS ON OLDER PROPERTIES Generally, highly appreciated investment property has been held for many years. Old structures often are saddled with high periodic repair costs, potentially causing risk to owner cash flow. Example: 80-year old Frank called me with questions on his older 29-unit apartment. I asked him how much cash flow he kept per month, he said it was supposed to be $12k after debt payments, but in reality, it was zero due to high repair costs. GOLDEN YEARS Perhaps you have more equity and cash flow than you can spend in your remaining lifetime. What you don’t have is enough time. Example: William used 1031 exchanges into various DSTs to clear his plate from obligations, improve asset diversification, solidify cash flow, defer/avoid income taxes, and provided a great legacy asset for his spouse and eventually their kids though the use of the DST. This allowed him the time and freedom to pursue bucket-list trips, engage in hobbies and spend more time with loved ones. If you are thinking about selling investment real estate, whether it be rental property, raw land, apartment buildings, commercial property, or even farm land; and you think a DST might be right for you, contact Danielle and the Madrona team. Only Financial Professionals can offer DSTs. As a CPA, Investment Advisor and Fiduciary, Madrona will help facilitate the steps to correctly execute this taxdeferred strategy according to IRS code, and select diversified replacement DST properties to complete your exchange.

ONLY 1 “REAL ESTATE” PERSON IN YOUR HOUSEHOLD Often, married couples do not both want to be landlords. In our example, Fred is age 78 and he enjoys being a landlord, but knows his 72-year-old wife would not want to deal with rental houses. Rather than run the risk of his wife having to Growing Your Wealth with Danielle Meister. For over 30 years, Madrona Financial & CPAs has been helping individuals and families improve their financial well-being by giving them experienced advice on public and alternative investments, real estate, insurance, taxes, executive compensation, business structure and business succession strategies, advanced gifting strategies, estate planning, and more. Madrona is headquartered in Washington State, while Danielle and her staff have offices in Park City and Cottonwood Heights, Utah. Call us 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. *DST investments only available to accredited investors and offered solely through the issuers offering documents. DST sponsor determines whether to accept any individual’s subscription documents. To be an accredited investor, an individual must have had earned income that exceeded $200,000 (or $300,000 together with a spouse) in each of the prior two years and “reasonably expects the same for the current year,” according to the SEC. Or, the individual must have a net worth of more than $1 million, either alone or together with a spouse. With the passage of the Dodd-Frank Act, this now excludes a primary residence as being eligible as part of an investor’s net worth (investors who had existing accredited investments but who now fail the net-worth test without their residence being valued were grandfathered).

28 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

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Hope Alliance

PA I D A D V E R T I S E M E N T

SMALL TOWN STORIES Upgrade Labs

The word “vision” encompasses much, from imagining possibilities to literally being able to see. Diane Bernhardt manages to blend both as Executive Director of Hope Alliance, witnessing the suffering of those with impaired eyesight while envisioning meaningful change. For Diane, the Hope Alliance international mission to aid the visually impaired started at home, when her son Daniel was diagnosed with juvenile macular degradation. “I envisioned Dan’s future as one of independence, not dependence,” she says firmly. Coming to Park City to ski, “I thought, a community that gives birth to the National Ability Center really understands.” PCSD’s already-in-place modifications for visually impaired students sealed the deal and in 2013, Park City became home.

Relatively new to Park City, Idaho native Logan Jones-Olson and Utah Valley’s Kristen Roscher experienced the Mountainkind vibe immediately. “We are incredibly grateful for the warm welcome,” enthuses Logan, co-owner of recently opened Upgrade Labs on Market Street. “The support from local businesses, the Chamber, and our members has been incredible.”

Diane became Executive Director in 2019 after encountering Hope Alliance while president of Park City Rotary. “Life prepares you for what’s next,” she smiles, crediting her career as a software engineer team leader with honing her dynamic leadership style, which has seen the non-profit expand to Moab and then Mexico, Guatemala, Uganda, and later this year, Tanzania. “Nothing comes close to witnessing someone seeing clearly for the first time,” she enthuses, “It is the purest blend of amazement, joy and hope.”

Park City is an excellent match for Kristen and Logan’s balanced lifestyle and growing family, “the perfect place to raise amazing, healthy, and kind kids, our number one priority,” Logan says. They still marvel at their first inadvertent meeting seven years ago. Though they ‘met’ on a dating app, “we never set up a date,” Logan recalls. “But then we bumped into each other in person by accident! It was truly love at first sight.”

The suffering presently beyond Hope Alliance’s reach is something Diane works tirelessly to remedy. “I met a nine-year-old boy with profound impairment in Uganda. I saw my son in his eyes,” she recalls. “Our best efforts could not improve his sight. The contrast between the resources available for Dan and the limited options for this beautiful boy is heartbreaking.” But Diane finds a wellspring of hope and inspiration in Park City’s “true character, which is our strong commitment to helping others.” With Live PC/ Give PC coming up November 15, she encourages Parkites to remember Hope Alliance. “With community support, we will decrease Vision Center wait times and recruit more volunteer doctors,” expanding Hope Alliance’s reach in Utah and internationally. That’s a vision we can all see clearly.

Founded by NY Times bestselling science author Dave Asprey, Upgrade Labs brings Asprey’s ‘biohacking’ methods to Parkites looking for a “more energized, stronger, sharper life and mindset,” Logan says, employing technologies like metabolic trainers and 360-degree lymphatic detox massage, “the Big Squeeze,” he laughs.

Logan’s initial connection with Upgrade Labs was less lighthearted; an accident had left him without the use of his thumb and forefinger. Surgeries and months of therapy failed to improve his condition, but Dave Asprey’s program helped him regain movement in just a few weeks, “a testament to the power of advanced technologies,” he avers. After working in online ventures and property rental, the couple find “the brick-and-mortar experience” of helping people in person each day deeply satisfying. “It is thrilling to work directly with members and have an opportunity to contribute recovery and performance modalities in a place that values wellness and vitality,” Logan states. “Park City now has a special place in our lives,” he smiles. “We’re motivated to help Parkites keep doing the good things you are doing for health and longevity, and from the bottom of our hearts, thank you!”

#VISITPARKCITY / FIND US ON

PARK CITY DAY SCHOOL

GET MORE OF WHAT MATTERS. SPOTLIGHT ON:

Middle School Director, Dr. Gwen Creel-Erickson What makes Park City Day School special? We are very focused on experiential, hands-on learning, and we excel at meeting a variety of student profiles, whether they need additional support or they are accelerated. Our staff is extremely caring, and they know each child deeply. We have a robust outdoor education program, and we have various opportunities for international student travel. We are unique in a lot of ways.

7th Graders at Goblin Valley.

What different programs are available besides the core academics of literacy, math, science and social studies? At PCDS, our middle schoolers get highquality instruction in core subjects, and are fortunate to have visual arts, performing arts, Spanish language, outdoor education, and what we call “Explorations,” which allows students to choose from a variety of subjects that might spark their interest. This year we’ve offered robotics, watercolor painting, the school newsletter, and Junior Model United Nations. Our science program incorporates double periods twice a week– which allows for a lab session each time they meet. What is special about the relationship between middle schoolers and their teachers? In our middle school, students have the same set of teachers for three years. This is called “looping” in academic circles, and it has been proven to be one of the biggest indicators of academic success. We aren’t handing off students to the next teacher once the year is over. We are continuing with relationships we have already built. Everyone in this building is here because we love teaching middle school and you can feel that when you walk in the door.

Round Square trip in Banff, CA.

What is special about the relationship between middle schoolers and their peers? At PCDS, we help to facilitate healthy peerto-peer relationships. We know our students

so well, and our intimate setting allows us to know immediately when a problem arises, so it can be addressed appropriately. We also have a school social worker who works closely with the middle school team, and together they provide the guidance students need. Can you talk about the Outdoor Education program and how that impacts the students? Outdoor learning is woven through the PCDS curriculum starting in our Early Childhood program. By the time students enter middle school, they have had a variety of outdoor education experiences. Each grade participates in trips that are challenging, and require teamwork and the ability to get along with your peers to solve problems. On the surface, these might look like fun camping trips–and they are so much fun—but more than that, they are opportunities for students to challenge themselves physically, and to practice independence, critical thinking, and executive functioning skills. What is Round Square? Round Square is an international network of 270 schools in over fifty countries. As a Round Square member school, our students are given opportunities to connect with other students around the world through conferences and exchanges. We are preparing students for the world beyond Utah. How are kids who graduate from PCDS in 8th grade prepared for high school and beyond? Our students leave PCDS with excellent academic skills. We have heard time and time again that our students place into advanced classes in 9th grade. They are critical thinkers and astute problem solvers. In addition, our middle schoolers are thoughtful, curious people who are willing to engage with challenging material. In short, our students rise to the top, seek out faculty relationships, and get involved in their community. JANUARY 2025 // 31

KIDS CORNER

SPONSORED BY SWANER PRESERVE & ECO CENTER

ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY ROD RINDERKNECHT

AMAZING BUTTERFLIES

If you enjoy summer days hiking in the local mountains or sitting among the flowers in a nearby garden, you have undoubtedly observed butterflies flitting from flower to flower or gliding on updrafts overhead. These small fragile creatures have withstood the ravages of time, gradually evolving and adapting to changes in their environment. You may be thinking – “Why are we talking about butterflies in January?” – but, even though they’re not evident this time of year, winter still plays an essential role in their life cycle. Butterflies are exothermic (cold-blooded) and are unable to fly in temperatures less than 55 degrees. How then, do our little scaly-winged friends survive in winter? Some butterflies fly south to warmer climes. Examples are the well-known Monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus), which migrates all the way from southern Canada to the oyamel fir forests in the mountains of central Mexico, and the ubiquitous Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui), which migrates southward to the warmer southern states or Mexico. Most butterflies, however, overwinter in one of the four stages of their life cycle: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis) or imago (adult). Eggs are generally laid singly or in multiples upon or on the underside of the leaves of the host plant, so that in spring when the eggs hatch the larvae will not need to search for

32 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

food. An example of this is the Ruddy Copper (Lycaena rubidus) seen in the Park City area. Most butterflies, however, overwinter in their larval state. No matter the stage of the life cycle, development and growth ceases completely (diapause) until spring when the temperature rises. An example is the Field Crescent (Phycoides pulchella), which is also found locally. Many butterflies overwinter as pupae, which are generally suspended by a silky thread in a protected location, the pupae themselves affording a physical barrier to the cold. When spring comes, the magical process of metamorphosis occurs and a fully grown butterfly emerges. Examples include the Western Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio rutulus) and the Hoary Comma (Polygonia gracilis), both of which are endemic in this area.

Finally, a few hardy butterflies including the Milbert’s Tortoiseshell (Nymphalis milberti) and Mourning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa) survive winter in the adult stage by squeezing into cracks, crevices, or holes in tree trunks. Death by freezing is related to ice crystals forming in body fluid, causing cells in vital organs to burst. Some butterflies accumulate chemicals called cryoprotectants, such as the sugar alcohol glycerol, that act like “antifreeze”, lowering the freezing point of body fluid and preventing ice crystals from forming. All these adaptations for the winter survival of butterflies have evolved over millions of years. Hopefully in our short lifetime, we will be able to preserve their habitat in Park City and its

environs, affording us the opportunity to enjoy their beauty and importance as pollinators for many years to come. Want to learn more about butterflies and their amazing life cycles? Transform into a caterpillar and journey through a butterfly’s world in an interactive maze at Swaner’s new exhibit – Amazing Butterflies – opening January 18 at Swaner EcoCenter. Through larger-thanlife leaves, grass, and trees, you’ll experience the challenges of being a caterpillar as it morphs into a beautiful butterfly. As you navigate the maze, discover the ways caterpillars move, what they eat, and how other creatures help them achieve their transformation.

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E D U C AT I O N C O R N E R

EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR PARK CITY EDUCATION FOUNDATION

BY MOLLY MILLER

IT ALL STARTS WITH PRESCHOOL DID YOU KNOW? More than 2,000 Park City students have gone through the preschool program since it started in 2010! WHERE PCEF DONATIONS ARE SPENT → $125,000 Invested into PCSD Preschool Each Year Supporting PCEF means: ▶ High-quality early childhood education at PCSD. ▶ It is affordable & accessible. ▶ Preschool can expand to meet demand… ▶ Capacity increases from 156 to more than 288 next year! ▶ PCEF4Kids.org On November 11th, 15 years apart, both of Flor Loya’s daughters were born. Jessica turned 19 this year. Her little sister, Ivanka, turned 4.

PCEF Bright Futures student and PCHS 2024 graduate, was a preschool student at McPolin Elementary School - which is where Ivanka goes to school!

Jessica. “A full-circle moment.”

The similarities don’t stop there. Jessica, a

“Seeing her at my preschool is funny,” said

Ivanka weighed in to say she loves her new

34 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

“Ivanka loves school - she even likes getting ready,” Flor said. “Even if she is sleepy - she is excited to go to school.”

© Best Version Media amigos/friends, is learning letters, and, more importantly, the names of her favorite colors, which are “rosa and azul!” Flor has lived in Park City for 25 years, and, of the many things she loves about our community, opportunities for students top the list. PCEF funding provides programming that raises our district to the highest level - which many in our town have come to expect.

Jessica is a PCEF Bright Futures (BF) student in her first year of college. BF walks alongside first-generation students and helps equip them with college knowledge as they work to get to and through post-secondary education. “It’s amazing - I don’t know how to explain it,” Flor said. “If it wasn’t for those programs, it wouldn’t be possible for Jessica to go to college.”

Your support will give generations of Park City students the very best start to their education. Long-term studies show attending preschool increases: ▶ High school graduation rates ▶ Years of college completed ▶ Lifetime earned income

Things like art (EVA), Afterschool, Bright Futures, and Preschool are programs that make PCSD stand out - even compared to other districts in Utah.

Jessica is now in her second semester at The University of Utah - and has earned so many scholarships her college education will be fully funded!

PCEF supporters provided the seed funding for Preschool back in 2010. These days, PCEF donors provide more than $125,000 annually to ensure PCSD can provide affordable, high-quality preschool for 3- and 4-year-olds.

Jessica’s journey, like Ivanka’s, started with Preschool. Thanks to the PCSD Pre-K expansion, the number of seats for students will increase from 156 to more than 288.

limits the need for expensive interventions in the early elementary years.

There is exponential value for our community when early childhood education is prioritized. More parents can afford to work and grow economically, families feel supported by and engaged with each other earlier on, and students experience better long-term health outcomes. Not only that, every dollar invested in preschool provides a $13 dollar return - because when the education gap is addressed before kindergarten, it

“I was telling Jessica - if we reach a certain point, we want to start a scholarship for students.”

NEW next year, families have the option for 3-year-olds to attend preschool full-time, five days a week - with access to before- and after-school care, too! “My nieces and nephews are in their 20s,” Flor said. “And things are harder. There are no scholarships - they pay for EVERYTHING. They don’t have programs like PCEF provides, nothing like Preschool or Bright Futures.”

▶ PCEF4kids.org

Flor feels so strongly about the opportunities PCEF helps provide that she wants to do something to create positive change.

“I hope I do make it to the point where I can give back,” Jessica agreed. “Family and community - older siblings help the younger ones. The community helps the students. I want to continue the cycle because, starting with Preschool and now with Bright Futures, that cycle helped me.”

WE CAN’T WAIT FOR MAY 17TH, 2025! Registration opens March 1st.

SUPPORT PARK CITY’S STUDENTS, TEACHERS, AND SCHOOLS. JANUARY 2025 // 35

E D U C AT I O N C O R N E R

BY MOLLY MILLER

EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR PARK CITY EDUCATION FOUNDATION

Bright Young Women:

Isa's Story

“People see it as negative and something that needs to be hidden away - but putting it out there, saying ‘I’m undocumented and I’m getting my degree and continuing my education’ is really important.” Isabella is a First Ascent Scholar at the David Eccles School of Business at The University of Utah. She’s a Bright Futures participant and a graduate of Park City High School (2024) – achieved while she worked full-time and earned six scholarships to fully fund her college education. Isa is also undocumented. Her record of accomplishments is impressive for a young adult of any status, but attention should be paid: her hard work to get to this point is nothing short of staggering. “It’s hard to even think about going to college, there are so many barriers and things blocking us,” Isa said. “Not being able to get FAFSA is one of the biggest things. And the stigma around documentation is a major barrier. We’re seen as people who come

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 2024. If you would like to know what your house is worth or what your buying power actually is - we would love to meet with you! Jessie

Gretchen

Lacy

Gretchen: Over fifteen years in the global luxury hospitality industry, Gretchen takes a concierge-style approach to work with discerning clients worldwide. Her extensive and diverse experience in hospitality and marketing, coupled with 10 years in Park City real estate gives her a unique perspective and knowledge. Gretchen sits on the Board of Directors for the Board of Realtors, the Legislative Committee, the RPAC Committee, and the Affordable Housing Committee. You can find her enjoying the mountains when she’s not working with clients. Lacy: With personable and attentive service at the forefront, Lacy is known for her expertise, professionalism, industry knowledge and ability to deliver big results for her clients. Lacy has a unique ability to connect with the most discerning clients, having worked for the NFL for 15 years in marketing, specializing in negotiations internationally. Lacy also owns the small business, PEAK|45, a luxury boutique Lagree fitness studio here in Park City. You can find Lacy, her husband and two little girls skiing the slopes in the winter or biking in the summer and are proud to call Park City their forever home. Jessie: After establishing a successful business in Park City, Jessie transitioned to real estate, fueled by her passion for interior design. She leverages her design skills to create beautiful, functional spaces, assisting clients in all facets of real estate, including home preparation for the market. When not working, Jessie enjoys skiing, hiking, and spending time with her two children. Gretchen Hudgens 435-901-1015 Insta: @gretchenhudgens Email: Gretchen@winutah.com

Lacy Harrison 858-525-3434 Insta: @lacykharrison Email: Lacy@winutah.com

Jessie Lannings 858-952-4742 Insta: @jessielanningrealestate Jessie@winutah.com 36 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

© Best Version Media here and steal jobs, people who are bad for the economy and don’t do anything.” “The reality,” she continued, “is that there are so many young people who want to learn and grow and continue their education. To get jobs in our communities and to build the economy.” It’s hard to know how to talk about documentation, even in this community, which is unequivocally richer - in every way - thanks to many immigrants who call Park City home. But when things are hard, it’s even more critical to address them. And for Isa, it’s important to reach other undocumented students - to show them getting to and through college is possible - and to provide a sort of road map of options. With the full, joyful support of her family, Isa (along with her older sister, a Bright Futures student at Utah State University) cleared her path to college. It looked a little something like this: ▶ First Ascent Scholarship ▶ Dream US Scholarship ▶ Bright Futures’ Range Scholar ▶ Bright Futures Scholarship ▶ MAC Scholarship ▶ Mountainlands Community Scholarship It came as a surprise when she was notified she’d earned the full-ride First Ascent scholarship. “I kind of forgot about it! It took a while to hear back because everyone had issues with FAFSA, so I was shocked.”

For Isa, nursing combines all her passions. “I love the science part of it. I’m into chemistry and biology - but I also really do care for people and love helping others out. I’m both a student and a teacher - I also love teaching others and explaining.” The love for nursing and biology runs in the family. Her mom used to be a nurse but wasn’t able to continue her career in Utah. Isa’s older sister is a biology major. And while her younger sister, a Bright Futures junior at PCHS, plans to become a nurse, too, Isa makes sure to say they’re not feeling any pressure about it. “My mom is supportive and loving, and she doesn’t care what we do as a career. She just loves that we are going to college and learning. She taught us - she implemented it - education is REALLY important. To be educated and to know what you’re talking about - it’s massively important.” BRIGHT FUTURES Isa points to PCEF’s Bright Futures as the reason she was able to earn a full-ride scholarship - and narrows that down to one person in particular. Lindsay Carreto graduated from PCHS in 2020 - and is a Bright Futures alum herself. “Lindsay is a great mentor. In the beginning, working with her brought a feeling of relatability: here’s someone who is like me, who has done what I want to do. My parents are always so supportive, but Lindsay gave me a really specific kind of support - she’s been through this and I believed her.”

When she learned her education was fully funded, she was able to lay some of her burden to rest.

“She always supported my decisions,” Isa continued. “She gave me valuable information about how things work and she encouraged me to go for First Ascent. Lindsay told me I could do it. And I did it! Without her, without Bright Futures, I wouldn’t be here.

“I always knew I wanted to go to college, but I didn’t know how I would ever pay for it. I’m not eligible for FAFSA, so figuring that out was one of my biggest worries.

My main thing - to show my community that you can do it. Sometimes we all need the motivation to do something. We are all capable of being where I am.”

Isa worked throughout high school and ramped up to full-time her senior year. This was as she took her high school classes, AP classes, and concurrent enrollment courses that landed her on campus this fall with 23 credits already banked. The Dream Big class at PCHS played a key role in her academic success.

And as for the hard work it took to get here?

“I feel like I still haven’t processed it. Not worrying about the money stuff - it’s kind of amazing.” Not that that means she won’t be working on campus… In addition to her courses - Isa plans to be a Nurse, with a minor in business - she has already started thinking about a job. “My parents love that I’m in college - they’ve always been supportive of it. They’re here to give help but I don’t want to give them financial burdens.”

“I just did it. I like doing things with people, and a lot of my friends were in Bright Futures with me, so a lot of it was fun. It wasn’t like a chore, Bright Futures gives you a sense of friendship and a bonding experience - which always makes it easier to do hard things.” “Continue with education. I find education to be something really important - no matter what you are passionate about, learning is fun. It’s great to have all this knowledge in your hands - learn more, get a master’s and doctorate.” “Especially in the Latino community,” Isa concluded. “We need to normalize higher education and pursue it. We need to be ok with wanting to learn more.”

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PC Tots Builds Brighter Futures for Workforce Families BY AIMEE L. COOK

PC Tots is doing more than providing preschool and daycare services—it’s cultivating brighter futures for families in the local community. This nonprofit has become a lifeline for working parents, offering year-round, high-quality early childhood education and care for their little ones. PC Tots serves children from 0 to 5 years old, recognizing the critical importance of early childhood education in shaping the foundation for lifelong learning. With a dedicated team of 25 teachers—most of whom hold degrees in early education and more than half are Spanish-speaking—PC Tots is shaping the minds and futures of 120 children at a time. These educators bring passion, expertise, and energy to every learning experience, ensuring each child thrives in an environment that values curiosity, play, and growth. PC Tots is committed to accessibility. Eighty percent of the children in their program receive tuition scholarships, removing financial barriers for many families. Each month, more than $70,000 in tuition scholarships are awarded, making sure families who need it most can access this vital resource. Tuition scholarships are awarded based on income and range from $400 to $1500 per child. This commitment relieves the financial strain on parents and positions

children to succeed in their formative years, regardless of economic challenges. “We currently have openings for children eight weeks to five,” said Katie Madsen, marketing and development manager. “PC Tots helps families work in Park City; it helps the economy and local businesses with a full-day program that is year-round. It also helps kids be kindergarten ready.” PC Tots’ mission is made possible thanks to the support of a generous community and over 40 local businesses whose ongoing contributions fund those critical scholarships and operations. This collaborative effort reflects the power of community in action, illustrating how working together can pave the way for meaningful change. PC Tots is nothing short of a gamechanger for the Park City workforce, which keeps the town thriving year-round. Many parents who are employed in the hospitality, service, or tourism industries rely on their flexible and comprehensive care solutions. Because PC Tots’ doors remain open throughout the year, parents can focus on their jobs, knowing their children are well cared for—even during school breaks or peak business seasons. Mark your calendars for the March annual fundraiser, the Birthday Bash. This special occasion celebrates PC Tots’ journey and brings the community together to support their mission of providing exceptional

early education and care to children in Park City. The Birthday Bash is more than just a fun-filled event—it’s an opportunity to raise crucial funds that directly contribute to the sustainability and growth of the programs. Check the website for details, coming soon. “It is very important that we keep getting support from the county, the city, corporations and individuals,” Katie said. “We have to bring in, through fundraising, $1.4 million every year. The other half is brought in through tuition from parents.” Whether it’s through sponsorships, local partnerships, or individual donations, the outpouring of support highlights the spirit of a town that truly values its people.

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

VISIT PCTOTS.ORG TO LEARN MORE 38 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

JANUARY 2025 // 39

E D U C AT I O N C O R N E R

EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR THE PARK CITY INVESTORY TEAM

BY RICHARD ELLIS • PHOTOS COURTESY OF VICTORIA COOK

AT WEILENMANN, PRESCHOOL IS AN ADVENTURE, NOT A DAYCARE LED BY VICTORIA COOK, WEILENMANN’S PREK4 PROGRAM PREPARES CHILDREN TO THRIVE IN KINDERGARTEN AND BEYOND WITH CLASSES IN OUTDOOR EDUCATION, MUSIC, PHYSICAL EDUCATION, FINE ARTS, AND MORE. At the Weilenmann School of Discovery, preschool teacher Victoria Cook believes four- and five-year-olds are capable of more than adults assume. In her class, they learn about farming and agriculture. They study and celebrate the Day of the Dead, Diwali, and Thanksgiving. They participate in outdoor education five days per week, including a nature hike every Friday, and they take classes in music, physical education, fine arts, and the library. “They're learning how to be a student, how to be a friend, how to carry a backpack all day,” says Cook. “Because preschool and kindergarten aren’t required in Utah, many kids entering first grade experience culture shock.” But not kids who go through the Preschool Fours Program (PreK4) at

Weilenmann. “They know what to do,” continues Cook. “They have those behavioral skills, those routine skills, those basic skills that most kids don't have when they go from a daycare to school.” The PreK4 curriculum teaches academic skills like numbers, shapes, letters, handwriting, and reading while keeping students active. During outdoor education, for example, students use binoculars (aka, “shape finders”) to identify circles, rectangles, and triangles in nature. They also learn core human values, like sharing, respect for the environment, and taking responsibility. “Anytime that there's trash or litter, these kids are the first ones to be like, ‘Miss Victoria, look what I found. Can we recycle it?”

Cook, who lives in Heber City, has taught early education for seven years and previously worked at other schools in Summit County. Her children, now in sixth and second grade, began attending Weilenmann’s tuition-free charter school as kindergartners and both had a wonderful experience. That motivated Cook to join Weilenmann’s faculty, which she did in 2021. Under Cook, the private PreK4 program

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has grown enrollment every year and has become an unbeatable option for working parents. The program runs Monday through Friday, 8 am to 3 pm, and at $600 per month, it might be the best deal in early education anywhere on the Wasatch Back. Plus, families can extend the day to 5:30 pm through the Camp Wapiti after-school program, which is available for an additional fee. Empathy for parents extends beyond the schedule and pricing. Since most parents are transplants to the area and don’t have family nearby, Cook started the “PreK Community.” Basically, she invites parents to share their contact information and coordinate on carpooling, playdates, childcare, and more. As

a Weilenmann parent herself, Cook knows it can be awkward to make friends with other parents. PreK Community reminds families that “We’re a team here. We all work together,” says Cook. The same PreK Community will stick together through eighth grade at Weilenmann’s middle school. “The greatest thing about Weilenmann is that everybody knows everyone's name,” says Cook, describing the tight bonds among parents, staff, and students. “No one's lost, no one's left behind.” Different from a typical preschool, Weilenmann aims to create community across grades. For example, Cook worked with the fifth graders to put on a carnival

for the PreK4 classes. The older students came up with games, oversaw ticketing, and more. In addition, the middle school recently started a workforce program, so Cook is bringing on seventh graders to help supervise lunch and recess. In January 2025, Weilenmann will launch its first-ever PreK3 program for students who are three years old going on four. Like PreK4, it’s affordable at $650 per month. For parents with multiple kids at Weilenmann, it will prevent scheduling headaches and extra schlepping across town. Enrollment for PreK3 begins in January 2025. For more information, email info@ wsdpc.org.

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E D U C AT I O N C O R N E R

BY MARITZA ROÑO REFUERZO

EDUCATORS MAKING ALL THE DIFFERENCE American Education Week 2023 was a weeklong event that took place from November 18 to the 22nd, honoring the dedication of educators—the effort and contributions of everyone who helps students succeed. These honorable mentions include teachers, custodians, librarians, nurses, counselors, bus drivers, and the rest of a school’s administrative staff. The theme for Education Week was “Together for safe, just, and equitable schools,” emphasizing the value of a quality education and the need for collaboration among teachers, parents, and the community to ensure student success. I have a soft spot for educators, so I’d like to use this platform to recognize our teachers— through my experiences communicating and working with them as a room parent, the school’s art auction coordinator and historian, a PTA board position that allowed me to document all school events, activities, and milestones––and compile them into a yearbook. Being a parent in these various roles, I had the opportunity—the privilege, really—to get to know teachers better and to understand the inner workings of a public school, such as what resources are available to them, the level of control they have in regard to curriculum, and how they serve as the engines that drive social and emotional learning. And, while becoming more acquainted with these educators, realizing that they simply are human—and humans with lives outside the classroom—too. I’ve seen both sides of this classic figurative coin: parents complaining about teachers, teachers complaining about parents. I tend to defend teachers more often, despite the fact that I’m a parent, due to some of the most outrageous stories I’ve heard, as well as incidents I’ve witnessed. And that’s all I shall say about this subject. (Ahem—insert zippered-mouth or shush-be-quiet emoji here.) Sometimes I feel I missed my calling as a teacher. I did spend a summer as an assistant preschool teacher before heading to grad school, also teaching tennis at a summer camp during my high school and college years. I enjoy working with children, and for reasons that seem like nothing out of the ordinary: Kids are exciting and unpredictable, so each day would always welcome a new adventure. I’ve used the words “educator” and “teacher” interchangeably; however, there are differences. Sixth-grade educator Deb DeKoff, whom I interviewed for last month’s Education Corner, had explained the dissimilarities to me articulately and 42 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

beautifully. “Anyone can ‘teach’—impart a ‘how to.’ An educator goes beyond by going deeper into the lesson with questioning and analogies, having the student make their own connections, and examine the problem from different points of view, by being more circumspect.” My older son’s second grade teacher in San Francisco, Anita Kohnen, was all about taking risks. We collaborated on an ambitious art auction project called Proyecto Mapamundi for her classroom, and we recruited parents from the other two second-grade classes to create their own world maps. I was invited into Anita’s classroom at least twice a week for many months, sitting down with her students in small groups, constructing miniature landmarks, such as the Golden Gate Bridge with red-colored matchsticks; the Taj Mahal molded out of white clay and adorned with acrylic flatback rhinestones; and a rainforest made with brown pipe cleaners and green pom-poms. Anita, in addition to preparing her world geography lessons, went above and beyond her call of teacher duty, getting creative with the actual map—which was a four-by-five-foot painted canvas—having different kids glue kinetic sand onto it to represent deserts, cut green- and brown-felt fabric sheets into leaves and tree trunks, then add a legend in the bottom-left corner, spelling out with alphabet-letter magnets each part of the topographical map key. Watching Anita impart her knowledge and creativity to these kiddos, while I assessed and recorded their progress, was remarkable. One student, Christopher, was struggling with his mini creation, not knowing what to make to represent the country of China. He didn’t want to construct the Great Wall or fashion a panda out of the various materials laid out before him, then he started criticizing himself for his lack of artistic talent. When I asked him if he liked Chinese food, his eyes popped out at me. “I like chow mein,” he gushed. Suddenly, he started rolling tiny pieces of yellow clay into the shape of noodles. “What veggies would you like?” I asked him, pretending to take his order. “Broccoli!” he replied, and when I showed him the leftover green pom-poms from the rainforest sculpture and opened up a bag of green pipe cleaners, his busy hands knew exactly what to do. It was such an eye-opening few minutes for me, during which I’d provided Christopher guidance and helped build his self-esteem,

perhaps setting the trajectory of his education, even his entire life. Okay, maybe that sounded a bit overblown and dramatic, but I did envision myself in Anita’s shoes, faced with magical moment after magical moment each day as my students overcame difficult situations. One of my closest friends, a retired English teacher, once remarked to me that he taught approximately 6,500 students throughout his career. (Wow! Insert wide-mouthed, wide-eyed emoji here.) Imagine being a role model to, and having such an impact on, so many little humans? (Insert larger wide-mouthed, wide-eyed emoji here!) I realize not every parent has the time nor the means to be in the classroom, so I made sure to take photos of their children in creative action. One mom thanked me for being the “vessel into her daughter’s school life,” while another labeled me a “photojournalist.” Motivated by their appreciative words, I decided to compile all of my photos into a book that I made online via Shutterfly, offering copies for sale at the school art auction, one of which was bought by a student’s grandmother for a whopping $200. I saved one of these photo books for Anita. With her wide, misty hazel-colored eyes and her smile broader than any astonished-face emoji I’ve ever used, she appeared more human than ever—even superhuman. She said to me, “You made all the difference this school year.” Two copies of Proyecto Mapamundi, one in English and one in Spanish, sit on the coffee table at Lectura Lounge, a community space my family and I opened last January, whose mission is to promote literacy and multilingualism. The coffee table books serve as a daily reminder of my path to embracing my calling as—dare I say it—an educator. And I have my sons’ own educators to thank for making me feel part of their candescent clique. Together, we have made, and will continue to make, differences.

LECTURA LOUNGE’S ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER! We opened our doors in mid-January 2024, with some of our most favorite friends joining us every Thursday for Reading Buddies/Compadres de Lectura! Soon thereafter, we offered a Monday time for more participants and volunteers, and by the end of summer, we were running ¡Divertimos!, Benny’s Bookclub, and Witty Writers Workshop. Add to that our first Lectura Lounge Lecture, Benefits of Multilingualism, along with Yoga & Meditation in Spanish and our Homeschooler Huddle, so it’s safe to say we are growing and thriving, in large part due to our BADASS community.

AN ANTHEM AWARDS SILVER MEDAL! We received word in mid-November that Lectura Lounge: A Cool Place to Read won a SILVER MEDAL in the Education, Arts & Culture: Community Engagement – Community Space category at The Anthem Awards, which was launched by The Webby Awards four years ago. We were in AMAZING company: Little Free Library and Philly ABCs (yay for literacy!) were our co-silver-medal awardees, and The Daily Show won silver in the Film, Video, TV or Show: Human & Civil Rights category. Thank you to the aforementioned badass community for making the Lounge not only a cool place to read, but also a fun hangout for forging social connections, strengthening cross-cultural ties, and helping promote humanity and civility!

CUTE CANINE COMPADRES AT READING BUDDIES The Tsuya family, whose four kids are among our remarkable regulars here at the Lounge, introduced their three-legged bundle of sweetness, Tasha, to our reading buddies this past November, and she’s been such a patient, perfect, and positive addition to our sessions! In addition to being a hit, she has helped herself to Oscar’s leftover marrow and hoof chews, but what Oscar doesn’t know won’t hurt him. Casey and Charley are smiling and howling up at Rainbow Bridge, wishing they could join in on this cool canine coalition! Judy Silver, who’s taken the helm as our Buddies Boss, has reported how incredible it is to see what happens when people pair up to read together. Our list of regulars keeps growing—we just completed our third Reading Buddies Chart, boasting 34 kids. Mara and Taryn Barth, with 13 sessions each attended from August 5th to November 7th, are our grand-prize winners this time around! Congratulations to them—and to all our rabid readers—for helping promote the heck out of literacy!

¡DIVERTIMOS! (LET’S HAVE FUN!) Divertimos sessions will continue this winter on Wednesdays from 5-7 p.m., and on Fridays, time TBA. DLI students wanting to practice their Spanish outside of home, homeschoolers learning Spanish, and native Spanish speakers earning their community service hours have been joining us since the end of June 2024! RSVP not required but appreciated:

WITTY WRITERS WORKSHOP Britt Sady, who was an active participant in Witty Writers this past fall, is our new facilitator for our adult scribes! Her background—from running a nonprofit for children with Down Syndrome to penning her own memoir—has lent itself perfectly to our heterogenous group of adults and sweet-sixteener (hola, Dalia!). This month, we will share more of our plans for our published book, Neither Here Nor There/ Ni de aquí, ni de allá, aptly and awesomely titled by the aforementioned Dalia, and the spoken-word performance of our Witty Writers, ages 8 to 86, for our community. Warning: Some of their works might be weep-inducing!!

HOMESCHOOLER HUDDLE LEARNS SPANISH Marcela Pomadoro, our fun and fearless Wednesday activity leader for ¡Divertimos!, has been hosting two Spanish sessions for our Homeschooler Huddle: Yoga & Meditation in Spanish from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and Learn to Speak Spanish from 12:45-1:45 p.m., both on Wednesdays. A suggested donation of $5 per child, per session, is appreciated for our trial Learn to Speak Spanish class.

LECTURA LOUNGE WINTER 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 ¡DIVERTIMOS! Wednesday, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Friday, TBA WITTY WRITERS WORKSHOP Tuesday, 4:00 - 5:30 p.m. (kids 9-15) 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. (adults; teens 16+) WINTER DROP-IN HOURS Monday, 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Thursday, 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Friday, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

CONTACT US Address: 1960 Sidewinder Dr., Suite 106 Park City, UT 84060 Email: info@caseyandcharleys.org Website: caseyandcharleys.org

READING INSTRUCTION CLASSES WITH SERENA MUELLER Serena Mueller, owner of Silver Creek Speech Therapy, continues to offer group reading instruction classes for $5 per child (to cover the cost of supplies) at the Lounge. Sessions are held on Mondays from 3:45 p.m., approximately 35 minutes long, and designed for kids in pre-K or early kindergarten. Serena uses the Orton-Gillingham approach, which is a multisensory phonics technique for children learning how to read, spell, and write. If you’re interested in having your child participate, you can contact her at 435-565-1509 or serena@silvercreekspeech.com. JANUARY 2025 // 43

LITERARY CORNER

BY MARITZA ROÑO REFUERZO

R E A D I N G

W I T H

N E I G H B O R S

How Alison Delgado’s My Race for Life Illuminated My Own Lately, I’ve been coming across various memes about “finding your inner strength.” I also spotted this quote at a coffee shop: “Courage isn’t having the strength to go on; it’s going on when you don’t have the strength.” “Hang in there. Be strong!” This is the stock yet sincere advice I dole out to friends, after hearing about tribulations they’ve recently experienced. I’ve always been told to be strong. To be strong like a tiger—not weak like a pussycat— especially while competing in the USTA (US Tennis Association) Girls’ 14- and 16 & Under categories and achieving a ranking of number 40 in Southern California by the time I was 15. After I’d finally won my first USTA-sanctioned tournament, I seemed destined for a higher ranking, possibly the golden ticket to playing for a Division 1 (D1) college tennis program. Regrettably, I decided to call it quits during my senior year in high school, although I still played for my varsity team. My ranking was enough to garner the attention of a few D2 tennis programs, also a D3 school in Pennsylvania. But, for me, it wasn’t enough. So, I stretched a wing and banked on a big prayer that my higher-than-average grades and diverse extracurriculars would get me into a top-tier university—one with a “D1” academic reputation. When I was told I most likely would have made it as a walk-on player for the women’s tennis team of the “D1” university I enrolled at, I couldn’t help feeling regret. And what do most of us do after experiencing disappointment and sadness? We suck it up; we stay strong. Then, we move on. I’d put extreme pressure on myself during high school; to this day, I believe this stress manifested itself physically. I started experiencing lightheadedness to the point where I’d pass out, like one time after a tennis fundraiser I’d organized for a club on campus. After graduation, during a backpacking trip through Europe, I doubled over from a sandwich I’d eaten. When my mother-in-law first met me, she recalls my appearance being “pale.” Exactly four years, four months after I received my bachelor’s degree, my strength would be put to a test that no one saw coming—not even this tiger-sometimes-pussycat. I was diagnosed with stage three colon cancer and would be enduring 48 weeks of chemotherapy. My mom gave me a journal filled with inspirational quotes while I was on treatment. Inside of it, nearly everyone who visited had written something to me, as if to sign my school yearbook. Looking back, I wondered—if they themselves wondered, “Why is she having me do 44 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

this? Is she dying?” Family and friends obliged, and I was blown away by their sentiments, many remarking, “You’re the strongest person I know.” Do we always need to be strong to face challenges? The effort to channel that inner strength, to hang in there, denies you the feelings your heart yearns to experience under those challenging circumstances. What if I had been a weak little pussycat that year on chemo? And why did everyone think I was so strong? Twenty-nine years later, I’m a colon cancer survivor, and I took the opportunity to share my story in Groovy Girl, my first novel. Monica Schaffer, a retired pediatrician at Summit Pediatrics, recently hosted a book reading for me, with a group of her colleagues in attendance. Alison Delgado was one of them; her name rang a bell, then I remembered a friend telling me about her book, My Race for Life: Finding New Strength After Tragedy. When I walked in, Alison was the first to greet me. She proceeded to hand her own book to me and said, “Let me know what you think.” In only a few days, I finished Alison’s memoir. It resonated with me on so many levels, yet both our stories couldn’t be more different. Our one and only commonality: We played a varsity sport in high school. Alison was a straight-A student, valedictorian, and a full-ride scholarship recipient to a D1 school. “To truly appreciate my story,” Alison begins, in My Race for Life, “you must understand who I am and who I once was.” In middle school, she’d noticed a bulletin board with a list of students who received a 4.0 each quarter. From this point on, Alison was determined to get her name on that board, every single time. She emphasizes, “It became my first obsession. I expected perfection of myself.” This statement struck a chord in me. Although I never expected perfection, I was put on a pedestal by others looking in from the outside. I was an aspiring concert pianist, and I’d made the CIF (California Interscholastic Federation) Southern Section Girls Tennis Team. However, my grades were slipping, and though I’d aced my first SAT, I bombed the second one, crying myself silly-sad, not feeling tiger-strong. To add to Alison’s near-flawlessness, she had run cross-country for a high school team that won the state championship every year. In chapter one, she recounts, “I almost had a nervous breakdown when I got my first A-minus in college. I missed Summa Cum Laude by two one-hundredths of a point.” She acknowledges her “underlying anxiety and expectations of

perfection” with the wisdom of who she is now, sharing, “It all had become too much.” When you’re in the thick of it—“it” as in performing sky-high on pedestals—you ignore it’s “too much.” You remain strong. During my undergraduate years, I continued to push myself, especially after I was put on academic probation. I was the only non-valedictorian living in my college dorm. I found solace in intramural tennis, going undefeated in mixed doubles, feeling myself climb onto another platform—but not placed on it by someone else. Alison the valedictorian, on the other hand, was a pre-med student, graduating in three years, and was accepted to the College of Medicine at University of Cincinnati (UC). She also decided to enter the Flying Pig Marathon before starting her program—and won it. First place, at the age of 22. Tim Delgado, her future husband, had seen Alison’s name in the paper the day after the marathon, and he too would be starting med school at UC. Tim was passionate about cycling and introduced Alison to the sport. They grew closer, going on rides together. Exactly four months into their marriage and two years into their respective medical residencies, Alison was hit by a car while cycling. She wasn’t supposed to survive the night, let alone the accident. To top off this soul-stirring turn of events, the emergency helicopter physician who was dispatched to the site was Tim. I won’t spoil the harrowing, heart-rending details of Alison’s remarkable tale. (If you’d like to find out what happened, two copies of her book are at Lectura Lounge. You can also purchase it on Amazon or from Alison herself.) Where did Alison find strength? Or, rather, had she embraced weakness? To me, there’s more freedom in the latter—because you’re no longer hell-bent on focusing on being strong. Remember: Courage is going on when you don’t have the strength. Alison and I have another thing in common: We’re both warriors. The inscription inside my copy of Alison’s book reads, “Continue to inspire and keep moving forward.” The last words of her memoir reinforce this motivation: “I hope if a challenge comes your way, whether it be big or small, you’ll find a way to push forward and use all your power to come out strong on the other side.” Indeed, “big or small.” D1 or D3. State champion or intramural winner. A-minuses or academic probation. You wanna know what I think, Alison? You’ve reminded me to continue to be who I am, not who I once was.

PARK CITY EARNS HIGH MARKS IN MUNICIPAL EQUALITY INDEX, SECOND STATEWIDE PARK CITY, Utah — The Human Rights Campaign Foundation (HRC) has released its 2024 Municipal Equality Index (MEI), an annual evaluation of over 500 cities nationwide on the inclusivity of their laws, policies, and services for LGBTQ+ individuals. Park City earned a score of 85 out of 100, maintaining its status as the second-highest-ranked municipality in Utah. “Our ranking from the HRC confirms that our continuing dedication to equality is being recognized,” said Park City Mayor Nann Worel. “I want to thank our community partners, like Summit Pride, for teaming with us to fulfill our commitment to foster a Park City that is inclusive in its policies and practices – and, of course, helping us celebrate Pride Month this year.” The MEI, now in its twelfth year, evaluates cities on factors such as non-discrimination laws, the inclusivity of municipal services, and the city’s relationship with the LGBTQ+ community. According to HRC President Kelley Robinson, local initiatives play a pivotal role in advancing equality.

“For LGBTQ+ people, building community isn’t just a phrase; it’s a way of life,” Robinson said. “In many important ways, local politics shapes our lives just as much as state or national politics does. Mayors and city councilors who take LGBTQ+ inclusion seriously build stronger communities, and in turn, their cities thrive.”

Park City’s social equity initiatives and partnerships, such as those with Summit Pride, reflect its ongoing commitment to inclusivity. The city’s full 2024 MEI scorecard is available online, along with more information on its broader equity efforts.

FOR MORE CONTENT LIKE THIS, VISIT TOWNLIFT.COM

TownLift is a web and mobile-based Entertainment & News media outlet providing Park City and Summit County Utah with Breaking Local News & Community Updates.

JANUARY 2025 // 45

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JANUARY 2025 // 47

A R T S & C U L T U R E C O R N E R BY KIRSTEN KOHLWEY

PHOTOS BY DANA KLEIN

M A K E R S S E R I E S :

DAVID WINEGAR - PARK CITY PHOTOGRAPHY LLC.

DavidWinegar DAVID WINEGAR - PARK CITY PHOTOGRAPHY LLC. David Winegar developed his passion for photography before digital photography arrived on the mass market, but he didn’t start selling his photographs until 2004, when he participated in The Canyons Farmers Market.

would be an even better image with stars in the background. He took the photograph at 11:00 p.m. using long-exposure techniques. That evening, he worked all night, moving to different locations and completing his mission at Mesa Arch at sunrise.

A pivotal point for his photography came when he pursued wildlife photography. He had been watching a red fox, which frequented the same area every day during predictable hours but would run away if it spotted car movement. That evening, David positioned himself in advance. The red fox caught two Uinta ground squirrels, and David was able to sneak up on it. He managed to take a photo of the red fox when it turned and jumped. In 2007, David submitted this image to an international photography competition and won. It has become the signature image of Swaner Preserve and can still be seen in its Great Room.

David loves all types of photography. Recently, he won an award for his street photography. He says he will take a photograph of anything that “pulls on my heartstrings.” Photography for him is the drug that gets him outside into the beautiful landscape. He has been in love with the outdoors his entire life—fly-fishing, hiking, biking, and skiing.

Since then, David has sold his work at many local shows, including the recent Park City Artists Association Spring Into Art Showcase, and at the Park Silly Sunday Market. Recently, one of his images was selected for the Springville 100, considered the premier art show for Utah art. Lately, he has rediscovered black-and-white photography and already won first place at the Intermountain Professional Photography Print competition with Lonely Bristlecone Pine, an image he preplanned. He had already taken photos of this bristlecone pine during previous trips to Deadhorse State Park but thought it

Since retiring early from being a pilot, David spends a few hours per day reading photography books or watching videos about photography techniques online.

48 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

When Grizzly #399 was killed in Yellowstone National Park a few months ago, David dug out his photographs of this bear and shared them on Nextdoor. Back in 2011, he had taken pictures of her and the other photographers around him. Even though he travels extensively, he wants to serve the local community with his photography.

Recently, he started offering private photography lessons, which he really enjoys. They range from teaching students about their own camera equipment to going out into the field to implement the techniques he has taught his students beforehand. You can check out David Winegar’s photography at parkcityphotography.net or can email him at photomojo@comcast.net.

A R T S & C U L T U R E C O R N E R BY KIRSTEN KOHLWEY

PHOTOS BY LEXIE LARSON

M U S I C

S E R I E S :

Stacy Despain

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Growing up in a ranching family in Tabiona, Stacy Despain naturally drifted towards Western music. Her grandfather was a singer and had a band he would get together with to play music. Stacy followed in his footsteps and became a singer, but she accompanies herself on the guitar. Over the years, Stacy also picked up the ukulele. For the last eight years, she has been teaching music foundation, guitar lessons, and ukulele lessons in Heber, Tabiona, and via Zoom in Salt Lake City and along the Wasatch Front. Currently, she is teaching 50– 60 students in Heber Valley. Once a week, you can find her teaching music foundations at the Thriving Day Academy, a Montessori school in Heber for children 18 months old to 9 years old. Stacy’s students range from three years old to 80 years old. The youngest ones are in her music foundation classes. When her students are five years old, she starts teaching them how to play the ukulele or the acoustic guitar with one- and two-finger chords. Her oldest student used to be her principal. Stacy says it was “the coolest experience ever,” teaching her former principal how to play the guitar. Stacy taught herself, then took a guitar-playing class in college. She became immersed in the music scene in Provo and learned from other musicians. She also took some lessons in Tabiona and put in a lot of hard work to get to the point where she could accompany herself while singing. While building her teaching career, Stacy took a break from aggressively pursuing public performances. One of her favorite performances was at the Heber Valley Western Music & Cowboy Poetry Gathering, where she opened for the Bar-J Wranglers. The Bar-J Wranglers retired in 2021 after more than four decades of playing and singing Western music. They were based out of Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Stacy Despain is now starting to get back into performing. Her favorite genres, in addition to Western, are country folk, soft rock, and pop rock. She loves connecting with people, so she prefers an intimate atmosphere. It brings out more emotion and vulnerability. Expect to see her entertaining in restaurants in Park City and Heber. You can find her at stacydespain.com. JANUARY 2025 // 49

ARTIST OF THE MONTH

SPONSORED BY PARK CITY PHOTOGRAPHERS

BY DEB DEKOFF

EllaZupo

YOUNG ARTIST

Deb DeKoff - Can you describe your creative process? Do you have a specific routine or ritual when you start a new piece?

Ella - When beginning a new project, I always start with a clear mental image of what I want to create. Visualizing the concept ahead of time is crucial, as it sets the foundation for the entire piece. My creative process is consistent across all mediums and follows a structured flow: I begin with thumbnail sketches to explore composition and layout, then move on to the final detailed sketch. From there, I focus on layering shadows to establish depth and mood, and finish with highlights to bring the piece to life. This meticulous approach ensures each work is both intentional and polished. DD - How do you decide on the subject matter or themes for your artwork? Ella - The subject matter of my work is

deeply personal, often drawn from my own experiences and emotions. My latest collection, Tangled Thoughts: An Artistic Journey Through Anxiety, reflects this connection. Each piece represents a unique aspect of my anxiety, capturing the complex and often abstract forms it takes in my mind. By turning these feelings into visual art, I aim to communicate my internal struggles and offer a sense of relatability and solace to others who might be going through similar experiences. DD - Who or what inspires you the most? Are there specific artists, genres, or movements that influence your work?

Ella - My inspiration comes from a variety of sources, rooted in my personal experiences and the world around me. Everyday life, music, television, video games, and my emotions all serve as wells of creative

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50 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

Ella Zupo ARTIST OF THE MONTH JAN 2025

© Best Version Media energy. Additionally, I’m influenced by specific artists, genres, and movements that resonate with me, particularly those that embrace surrealism, storytelling, and emotional depth. I find that combining external influences with my inner world creates a unique and authentic artistic voice. DD - What challenges have you faced as a young artist, and how have you overcome them? Ella - As a young artist, one of my biggest challenges has been gaining visibility within the community. To address this, I joined the Young Artists Academy (YAA) at the Kimball Art Center, which has provided invaluable opportunities to participate in local art shows and learn from established artists. Another significant challenge is navigating the rise of AI in the creative industry. While it can feel disheartening to see artistic roles diminished by technology, I’ve chosen to adapt by exploring how AI can enhance my creative process, using it as a tool for inspiration rather than viewing it as a threat. DD - Do you see your art evolving in a particular direction in the near future, or do you prefer to explore new things constantly? Ella - I see my art evolving alongside advancements in technology, particularly in areas like extended reality (XR), virtual reality (VR), and AI. These fields offer exciting

possibilities for immersive storytelling and innovative artistic expression. While I enjoy exploring new mediums and technologies, my goal is to integrate these tools in a way that complements my traditional art foundation and continues to push my creative boundaries. DD - What role do you think art plays in society today? Ella - Art is an integral part of society, permeating every aspect of our lives. From

architecture and fashion to video games and product design, art shapes how we experience the world. Beyond its aesthetic value, art serves as a powerful medium for storytelling, preserving cultural narratives and evoking emotional connections across generations. Whether it’s an epic journey or an intimate moment, art has the unique ability to convey complex emotions and inspire understanding in ways that transcend words.

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Dr. Reed’s office is committed to making this advanced technology accessible to the community. Book your DEXA Scan today and start your journey to better health. Learn more about how this state-of-the-art technology can benefit you by visiting Dr. Spenser Reed’s website or call 866-360-3945. JANUARY 2025 // 51

BY NATALIE TAYLOR PHOTOS BY DEB DEKOFF

R A D I N T H E WA S AT C H

A Dance with Mother Nature

Landscape artist Anna Leigh Moore explores the interplay of nature and art

If you’re lucky enough to fall in love with the natural world, share the beauty you find. That’s what Anna Leigh Moore hopes to do with her landscape paintings, “I painted a lot as a child,” she says. “My grandmother was an artist, so creating has always been a part of my life.” Anna grew up in Clarion, Pennsylvania and then attended Ohio University. After she earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and fine art, Anna packed her bags to explore a new frontier.

Before she became a self-employed artist, Anna worked in the outdoor industry as a ski instructor and tour guide. “I never did organized sports, just played outside in the yard,” she recalls, “so, it made sense to adapt that play into a livelihood. I guess playing outside has always been what keeps me happy. Outdoor activities (skiing and hiking) are my portal to experiencing the landscape before creating art—it’s a symbiotic relationship.”

When she moved to Utah 10 years ago, her whole world expanded. “Moving out west changed me,” remembers Anna. “It was like seeing a whole new planet. There are hard lines and brilliant colors, the sky is bluer and the mountains are steeper. I’m still trying to translate the west. I think it’ll be a lifelong quest. The beauty keeps unfolding and I keep finding new corners that need to be shared.” Currently Anna lives in Tollgate Canyon with her partner, exploring novel landscapes driving both her art and livelihood.

Art has been the through line of Anna’s life. Although she mostly painted portraits, when she moved to Utah she shifted to landscapes. “The western landscape enables so many adventures and informs my art in so many ways,” Anna says. “The mountains and desert enrich my life in ways I can’t really quantify.”

52 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

Anna works in both watercolor and oil. “Paint all feels like the same language,” she continues, “there are just different accents. Watercolor feels authentic, because I learned it from my grandmother. Oil is

© Best Version Media challenging and, therefore, really rewarding. I’m excited to use it because I am still learning. Depending on the project, and what needs to be said, the different mediums allow for those subtleties.” Anna’s unique approach to landscapes is based on capturing the fleeting essence of the ultimate muse: Mother Nature. In a world of concrete images and over-planned, over-structured lives, her openness is a refreshing exhale. “I do a lot of sky-heavy compositions where clouds and negative space become the main characters,” she says. “The sky is its own spirit. Light is always dancing and shifting so I try to capture those ephemeral elements. Nature always provides perfect compositions. That cirrus cloud—what it’s doing right now––will never happen again. It’s nice to focus on what’s above. It helps me keep my head up and open to possibilities, to what’s unknown.” Anna has received commissions for private pieces, currently shows at CreatePC and The Kimball Art Center, and participates in the annual Kimball Arts Festival and Art Fair in Jackson Hole. She also enjoys creating public art, like Deer Valley’s Burns Reimagined Project. “Park City gave decommissioned chairlift chairs to local artists to redecorate,” she says. “They were reinstalled on the mountain for people to stop and take photos.” The chairs weren’t your typical canvas and posed different challenges, for example, how to create something enduring and weather-resistant. “My chair designs celebrate my two favorite types of weather for skiing: a sunny, perfect, bluebird day and the full-on winter snowstorm.” Her most recent public art piece was a similar project for The Canyons Gondola Art Stroll in which she painted the inside of a retired Red Pine Gondola cab. In addition to her shows, Anna runs her own Etsy shop. “I see art as something for everyone,” she says. “So, the shop offers running hats, ornaments, prints, and more. People can commission a mural for their home or office, or buy a greeting card for their grandmother. There are so many collectors that live in the area, I feel very supported by our community because they love the landscape as much as I do.” Her first solo show, “Body of Water,” was focused on the Great Salt Lake. “The project traced the lake’s shoreline to help people understand this fragile environmental moment,” Anna says. “I took a jar of highly salinized water from the north arm of the lake and created watercolor paintings with it. When the water dried, the salt remained and looked like a coat of glitter.” Not just looking at the landscape––but literally using elements of it––is precisely what makes Anna Leigh an artist worth watching. Learn more about upcoming events annaleighmoore.com www.etsy.com/shop/AnnaLeighMooreArt

We would love to hear from you! If you have any ideas for nominating a member in our community for this column, please reach out to Jacquie Symes at jacquie@bestversionmedia.com Thank you! JANUARY 2025 // 53

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54 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

SPORTS SCHEDULE

SPONSORED BY BUDGET BLINDS OF WASATCH BACK

PARK CITY MINERS SPORTS JAN. 2025 BOYS BASKETBALL DATE

VS./@

TIME(S)

Jan 03

Vs Spanish Fork

Fresh 5:15pm Soph 3:30 pm JV 5:15 pm Var 7:00 pm

Jan 06

@ Ben Lomond

Fresh 5:15 pm Soph 3:30 pm JV 5:15 pm Var 7:00 pm

Jan 07

Vs South Summit

Jan 07

@ Logan

Jan 10

Vs Stansbury

Fresh 3:30 pm Soph 7:00 pm JV 3:30 pm Var 5:15 pm

Jan 14

Vs Murray

Fresh 3:30 pm Soph 7:00 pm JV 3:30 pm Var 5:15 pm

Jan 17

Vs Jordan

Fresh 5:15 pm Soph 3:30 pm JV 5:15 pm Var 7:00 pm

Jan 22

@ Cottonwood

Fresh 5:15 pm Soph 3:30 pm JV 5:15 pm Var 7:00 pm

Jan 24

@ Tooele

Fresh 5:15 pm Soph 3:30 pm JV 5:15 pm Var 7:00 pm

Jan 28

@ Hillcrest

Fresh 5:15 pm Soph 3:30 pm JV 5:15 pm Var 7:00 pm

Feb 04

@ Stansbury

Fresh 5:15 pm Soph 3:30 pmJV 5:15 pm Var 7:00 pm

Feb 07

@ Murray

Fresh 5:15 pm Soph 3:30 pm JV 5:15 pm Var 7:00 pm

Soph 3:30 pm Var 7:00 pm Fresh 5:15 pm

GIRLS BASKETBALL DATE

VS./@

TIME(S)

Jan 03

@ Orem

Soph 5:15 pm JV 3:30 pm Var 7:00 pm

Jan 07

@ Logan

Soph 3:30 pm JV 5:15 pm Var 7:00 pm

Jan 10

Vs Stansbury

Soph 3:30 pm JV 5:15 pm Var 7:00 pm

Jan 14

Vs Murray

Soph 3:30 pm JV 5:15 pm Var 7:00 pm

Jan 17

Vs Jordan

Soph 3:30 pm JV 5:15 pm Var 7:00 pm

Jan 21

@ Cottonwood

Soph 3:30 pm JV 5:15 pm Var 7:00 pm

Jan 24

@ Tooele

Soph 7:00 pm JV 3:30 pm Var 5:15 pm

Jan 28

@ Hillcrest

Soph 3:30 pm JV 3:30 pm Var 5:15 pm

Jan 31

Vs Mountain Crest

Soph 3:30 pm JV 5:15 pm Var 7:00 pm

Feb 04

@ Stansbury

Soph 7:00 pm JV 3:30 pm Var 5:15 pm

Feb 07

@ Murray

Soph 7:00 pm JV 3:30 pm Var 5:15 pm

BOYS WRESTLING DATE

VS./@

TIME(S)

Jan 03, 04

@ Tooele Tournament

Jan 09

@ Stansbury

Jan 10, 11

@ Bountiful Tournament

Jan 16

Vs Tooele

Jan 18

Vs TBD

Jan 22

Vs Brighton SENIOR NIGHT

Jan 23

@ Cottonwood

Jan 25

@ South Summit Tournament

TBD

DATE

VS./@

Jan 29, 30

@ UHSAA Divisional Dixie

TBD

Jan 09 Jan 18

@ Cottonwood 3:30- 6:30 pm @ Park City Swimvitational TBD

TBD JV 4:30 pm Var 6:30 pm TBD JV 4:30 pm Var 6:30 pm TBD JV 4:30 pm Var 6:30 pm

GIRLS WRESTLING DATE

VS./@

TIME(S)

Jan 17

@ Mountain View

TBD

Jan 31

@ UHSAA Divisional Mountain View

TBD

Feb 01

@ UHSAA Divisional Mountain View

TBD

SWIMMING TIME(S)

DEBATE DATE

VS./@

Jan 24

@ Sky View

TIME(S) TBD JANUARY 2025 // 55

S P O R T S & R E C R E A T I O N C O R N E R ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

BY IZZY CRANDALL, YOUTH WRITER • PHOTOS BY OWEN CRANDALL, YOUTH PHOTOGRAPHER

AT H L E T E O F T H E M O N T H : When I was looking for an athlete to fill this column, I asked around, trying to find an inspiring person. It had to be someone who was a beacon within their sport, or someone with outstanding accomplishments. No matter who I asked, one name repeatedly popped up as filling both of these shoes. And after just an hour-long interview, I can wholeheartedly see why.

GretchenLane

The first time I properly meet Gretchen Lane is in the lunchroom at Park City High School. She walks towards me, her short curly hair gently bouncing behind her short figure. We find our way to a quiet barstool table overlooking the surrounding mountains and begin talking. I ask her basic questions, curious to see where she’ll take them. We travel down her timeline from her first days in the water to her future goals going into college. As the conversation develops, one thing crystalizes: her true love for swimming. Gretchen, a senior at Park City High School, has just committed to swim at the University of Vermont, and, since her freshman year, has made the podium in 10 state events. But before all of these accomplishments, swimming was simply a measure of safety. Gretchen’s family, avid whitewater rafters and kayakers, wanted to make sure their two girls could get around in the water. So, her parents enrolled Gretchen and her sister, Bridget, in basic swimming lessons at the Park City Aquatic Center. After completing swim lessons, Gretchen and Bridget joined Park City’s swim team. However, the decision to join wasn’t quite so simple. Gretchen recalls, “When we decided to join the swim team, it was actually super random and impulsive.” When Bridget decided that she wanted to join, young Gretchen was not interested. However, unbeknownst to Gretchen, her mom brought her swimsuit in hopes that she too would give it a shot. When Gretchen saw longtime friend Josie Johnson at tryouts, she was inspired. Her impulsiveness led her to making the Park City Swimming team. Gretchen continued to swim through elementary school with the swim team. During this time, she tried to manage her participation in two sports, lacrosse and swimming. Though she found love for both sports, during her sophomore year, she realized that holding a competitive schedule in both was too much. Gretchen decided to focus on swimming and no longer play on the lacrosse team. Over the next three years, her dedication to swimming grew exponentially. Currently, Gretchen puts nearly 20 hours into training a week, on top of her studies. Before school, she can be found at the pool, and after school, she is back there for more practice and dryland. “When 56 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

you walk into the pool and you’ve already seen that pool this morning, I’m just, like, ‘Well, here we go again,’” she explains. “It’s the feeling of being there twice in a day or some days for the third time.” Throughout our conversation, I can’t help but notice the passion Gretchen has for swimming. Any criticism about swimming is quickly contradicted with a plus; she talks so positively about the culture that the sport has built around her. When I ask Gretchen to describe the swimming community, she states, “I think I would use the phrase ‘Misery loves company.’ There’s no way I could do it on my own.” At the beginning of her swimming career, Gretchen recalls learning to develop friendships, especially with her sister. Now, these friendships within the sport have translated to kids with similar interests in sports, school, and life. Through swimming, Gretchen has also learned the fine line of balance. She recognizes that trying to be the best academically and physically can become too much to handle. Her ability to turn her mind to “This is the best I can be today” has been a crucial part of her development

in the sport. “I used to get so defeated,” says Gretchen. “Now, I’m trying to talk nicer to myself.” By doing this, she can appreciate where she is today, while still being able to push herself physically to the limits. Gretchen also mentions how her dedication, consistency, and hard work needed to succeed in swimming have translated to other aspects of her life. Learning how to hold a consistent training schedule has helped her develop organizational skills and time management in school. Her constant hard work at practice has taught her how to prioritize her health and prosperous future. I don’t have enough space to recount all of the positives that Gretchen mentions about the effects of swimming on her life—however, I can make clear that the swimming culture Gretchen has been able to be immersed in has shaped her not only as an athlete but also as a human. Gretchen is looking forward to continuing her love of swimming at the University of Vermont. What began as a simple means of safety has influenced the rest of Gretchen’s life immensely, and I personally can’t wait to see how much further swimming will take her.

S P O R T S & R E C R E AT I O N C O R N E R

BY KIRSTEN KOHLWEY

BASIN REC IS READY FOR WINTER With 45 kilometers of groomed Nordic and multiuse trails, 10 kilometers of which are ski-only, Basin Recreation is ready for hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, and fat-biking. In January and February, adult and youth Nordic skiing series and clinics are offered on various trails. A four-week youth course costs $100, including ski rentals. For adults, there are one-day clinics as well. You can sign up at Basin Recreation’s website, basinrecreation.org. Basin Recreation also launched a new website design that features an updated Explore feature, where users can find featured routes, parks, and amenities. The interactive trail map, which is updated by the grooming operators every day, can be found at parkcitytrails.org, a cooperative effort by Mountain Trails, Basin Recreation, and Park City Municipal. Following snowstorms, Basin Recreation prioritizes snow removal on all commuter pathways and trailheads prior to any trailgrooming. Basin Recreation is required to plow 22 miles of commuter pathways, trailheads, and parking lots, which requires staff from the departments at Trails & Open Space, and Parks, to accomplish.

There are two Nordic ski-only 5K loops. One is the Basin 5K below the Utah Olympic Park within RTS. The other Nordic loop is the Green Heart 5K near Willow Creek Park in the Osguthorpe Farm. This trail is on private property and is made available through a land-use agreement in partnership with Mountain Trails Foundation and Summit Land Conservancy. The agreement stipulates that no foot traffic and no dogs are allowed, so, for the trail to remain open, visitors are asked to adhere to this restriction. Good fat-biking trails, but still multiuse, are two single-track trails: the two-mile Discovery Ridge loop and the one-mile Trailside loop. In other news, Dave Paskoski, Basin Rec’s trails supervisor, reports, “We’re pretty excited about the RAP Tax Grant committee awarding us three grants. One of the grants will help Basin Recreation purchase new tracks and a drag-groomer for a Polaris Ranger side-by-side. We are hoping to have those, once purchased, being utilized by the end of January or early February.” This, he says, will help groom some of the bigger areas. The other two grants are for spring and summer activities.

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JANUARY 2025 // 57

Y O U T H A C H I E V E R C O R N E R ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

SPONSORED BY BLACK DIAMOND GYMNASTICS BY JESSICA DAVIS Name: Emma Morgan • Age: 9 Discipline: Women’s Artistic Gymnastics, Level 3 Favorite Things: Squishmallows and Starbucks Park City, meet Emma Morgan. Emma began her journey at Black Diamond Gymnastics in the summer of 2024 when she joined the BDG Women’s Artistic pre-team. Through hard work and dedication, she quickly earned her place on the competitive team by the start of the school year—a testament to her determination and passion for the sport. “Emma consistently brings her best to practice, pushing herself to achieve great things. She sets a great example for her teammates because she’s always eager to learn and improve. The other athletes are inspired by her in so many little ways each day. Emma has the spirit of an Athlete Leader.” – Coach Anjela Kolarova Emma’s love for gymnastics extends beyond the gym. Whether she’s at home, at a trampoline park, or exploring new environments, she’s always finding ways to practice and perfect her skills.

ATHLETE LEADER OF THE MONTH

EmmaMorgan

Outside of gymnastics, Emma enjoys an active lifestyle. She spends her free time skiing, biking, and exploring trampoline parks—activities that reflect her adventurous and energetic personality. Beyond her athletic achievements, Emma is a thoughtful daughter, sister, and friend who values the relationships she shares with those around her. In addition to her athletic dedication, Emma excels academically as a straight-A student, demonstrating the same drive and focus in the classroom that she brings to the gym. Her ability to balance school, sports, and family is motivating to everyone around her. Congratulations to Emma for being recognized as the Athlete Leader of the Month.

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BY ANNA COX, PSIA, PMBIA, NBCHWC, CO-FOUNDER OF IGNITE ADVENTURE AND WELLNESS

CURIOUS ABOUT CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING? Are you hesitant to jump on the cross-country ski bandwagon? You may have tried it a few times and found it was too cold or too hard. If you would like some help with where to start, Ignite Adventure and Wellness is a company founded by women in the Heber Valley to increase access and comfort between women and outdoor adventure and wellness.

Let’s kick off 2025 with a few of the incredible benefits of this centuries-old sport.

At Ignite Adventure and Wellness, we provide private coaching for cross-country skiing, mountain biking, backpacking, hiking, and more. We also offer women-centric 6-week cross-country ski courses that start in January at Wasatch State Park. The courses are designed for beginners and intermediates, focusing on classic or skate skiing.

▶ Improved Cardiovascular Health: Crosscountry skiing is a great aerobic workout. Because no single muscle group is overstressed, the activity can be sustained for hours. An elevated heart rate during exercise can also help your heart pump blood more efficiently and effectively at all times, which decreases your risk for heart disease, the number one cause of death in our country.

If you want more information on how to enjoy cross-country skiing this winter, Ignite Adventure and Wellness has developed a virtual course to teach you everything you need to know. It includes videos, written content, goals, and support from a PSIA-certified coach. All lessons are virtual and done at your pace. The cost is $49 and comes with $400 in discounts for wellness services. In addition, use code SAVE25 to get 25% off at igniteadventureandwellness.com.

Benefits of Cross-Country Skiing:

▶

▶ Full-Body Workout: Cross-country skiing combines both lower and upper body workouts, engaging both the “pulling” and “pushing” muscles of each region—not to mention balance and coordination.

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▶ Social Engagement: There is so much power in connecting with others! Cross-country skiing can be picked up relatively quickly, making it an ideal sport for families and friends to enjoy together.

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▶ Stress Relief: Connecting with nature is always therapeutic, and the slower pace of crosscountry skiing (along with the peace that

comes with snowfall, fresh air, and sunshine) helps ease the stressors of everyday life. Endorphins: Any time you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which are shown to reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and pain. Endorphins also help regulate appetite, improve self-esteem, and enhance immune response. Improved Energy Levels: Does it seem like people are always drinking caffeinated energy drinks? Sadly, such drinks can cause unwanted side effects. Good news: endurance sports like cross-country skiing help improve aerobic fitness and overall energy levels without unwanted side effects. Excellent Cross-Training: If you enjoy other sports during drier seasons, cross-country skiing is a great way to cross-train. Skiing can help strengthen muscles and prepare them to manage the lactic acid they will produce during other sports. Nature Connection: Nature has a perfect order to it. When we are outside, our brains can relax and be refueled in unique ways. The sun provides Vitamin D, fresh air decreases winter sickness, and the beauty outside offers endless inspiration.

PARK CITY’S PREMIER BOXING GYM

Because we believe you are stronger than you think. TOGETHER WE RISE. Fitness and technical boxing classes, muay-thai and jiu-jitsu geared towards preparing you for competition or being in the best shape of your life.

EXPLORE OUR CLASSES Boxing Classes • Body+Box • Box+Build • Competitve Boxing • Parkinson’s Boxing

Martial Arts • Muay Thai • BJJ • MMA RISE Kids

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Whatever you’re looking for we’ve got it. First class is always on us. www.riseboxing.com

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2720 Rasmussen Rd. Ste. A4, Park City, Utah 84098

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60 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

H E A LT H A N D W E L L N E S S C O R N E R

BUSINESS PROFILE

BY BETSY DEMANN

MEET OUR TEAM

Ray!

This advanced practice nurse (APRN) is on a mission to make mental health care accessible to all. With two master's degrees—a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) from the University of Cincinnati and a Master of Science in Nursing Education (MSN-ED)— Ray is dedicated to championing mental health wellness. Since beginning his medical career in 2008, Ray has excelled in emergency nursing while inspiring countless nursing students through his engaging teaching style. Currently serving in the Utah Air National Guard Medical Group, he brings a wealth of experience to his practice. Ray specializes in treating a wide range of mental health issues across the lifespan, including cheerful children, anxious adolescents, and resilient adults. His commitment to helping each patient find their path to mental wellness is unwavering. If you’re seeking compassionate care focused on mental health, Ray is now accepting new patients. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our office to schedule your appointment—you're not alone on this journey to better mental health!

E L E VA T E Y OU R W EL L NES S Our vision is to provide quality healthcare to those struggling with their mental health.

General Questions: fax@mtnmentalhealth.com

www.mtnmentalhealth.com MON-FRI: 8:00AM - 5:00PM

Now accepting new patients, please call to set up an appointment. (385) 449-9990 (385) 200-0285 SERVICES: • Medication Management • Spravato ® (eskatamine) • Medical Cannabis Cards • Telehealth Therapy • Semaglutide Therapy

Bringing Sparkle and Shine to Every Corner of Your Home

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

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

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

SERVING PARK CITY, UTAH, AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS

BOOK YOUR CLEAN TODAY! ochoascleaningllc.com/contact • 385-941-6463 • services@ochoascleaningllc.com

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. JANUARY 2025 // 61

H E A LT H A N D W E L L N E S S C O R N E R

BY C. RYAN OSORIO, DMD, OWNER OF RISE DENTAL WELLNESS AND STUDIO RISE

Hygge

WHY RISE EMBRACES THIS DANISH CONCEPT AND WHY YOU SHOULD TOO!

In Denmark, there's a word that captures the essence of comfort and well-being: hygge (pronounced "hyoo-guh"). While there is no direct English translation, it encompasses everything that makes life feel cozy, meaningful, and intentional. At its core, hygge is about creating an atmosphere that invites relaxation, fosters connection, and encourages presence. The concept draws from Danish traditions of making the most of the colder months, focusing on simple pleasures like good food, great company, soft lighting, and cozy environments. INCORPORATING HYGGE IN RISE When I embarked on the journey of creating Rise Dental Wellness, I wanted to craft an extremely comfortable space with a truly meaningful experience. I wanted to create a practice that would put people's dental anxieties at

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

• Co m p re h e n s i v e D e n t i s t r y • Smile Aesthetics

• Co m f o rt + C h a r m • Studio Rise

1800 Prospector Avenue Park City, Utah 84060

Becoming a patient is easy.

435-214-0544 www.risedentalwellness.com 62 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

@RiseDentalWellness

Just scan here to schedule your dental visit.

ease and allow me to be fully focused with my patients. The more I studied and discussed this Danish concept of Hygge, the more I realized it was the perfect north star to guide the architecture, the design, the patient comfort amenities, and even the way we schedule patients. The influence of Hygge has been amazing for my team and my patients. Everyone wins with a comfortable space and an intention to have meaningful interactions with others. So I want to share a few ideas on how we, as neighbors of Park City, can incorporate Hygge into our lives. HOW TO BRING HYGGE INTO YOUR PARK CITY LIFE ▶ Create Cozy Spaces: With the chilly mountain air in Park City, there's no better time to transform your home into a sanctuary of warmth. Think soft blankets, candles, warm rugs, and ambient lighting. A fireplace or a crackling wood stove can amplify the hygge experience, perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes or a long hike. ▶ Savor Simple Pleasures: Hygge encourages you to slow down and appreciate life’s simple pleasures. Whether it's enjoying a hot cocoa by the fire, sharing a meal with loved ones, or savoring the beauty of a snowy day, taking the time to appreciate these moments is at the heart of the hygge philosophy. ▶ Prioritize Connection: Hygge is often best experienced in the company of

others. In Park City, we have a closeknit community with an abundance of vibrant people. Host a small dinner party, visit your favorite locally owned art galleries, or invite someone to a favorite wellness class. ▶ Get Outdoors: While hygge is often associated with indoor coziness, it also embraces the beauty of nature. In Park City, our trail systems and ski slopes can be a way to experience hygge outdoors. The key is to slow down and appreciate the moment, whether you're taking in the snowy vistas or relishing the warmth of the sun on a Bluebird Day. ▶ Focus on Mindfulness: Hygge encourages a sense of mindfulness and gratitude. Take a moment each day

to reflect on the things you’re grateful for — perhaps a peaceful moment on the mountain, the laughter of friends, or the comfort of your home. It’s about cultivating a mindset that values the present, rather than constantly rushing toward the next goal or achievement.

CONCLUSION If incorporating Hygge can mean so much to a new local dental practice, then how much value can it add to your life? In Park City, with our majestic mountains, thriving community, and natural beauty, it’s easy to embrace the spirit of hygge. By focusing on comfort, simplicity, and intentional moments, you can bring a little more hygge comfort to your life.

JANUARY 2025 // 63

H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S C O R N E R

BY TIFFANY WICKES WITH MEREDITH SALMON PHOTOS BY DANA KLEIN

THE WASATCH BACK’S MOST INNOVATIVE WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM The story of Wasatch Optimal Wellness Clinic (WOW) begins with Dr. Ben Fogg, Bryant Salmon, and Meredith Salmon, three dynamic healthcare experts offering a wealth of experience, passion, and unwavering commitment. Despite their distinct professional journeys, the trio recognized a shared frustration with traditional healthcare's reactive nature. This approach often focuses on treating symptoms rather than fostering preventive care and long-term wellness. Dr. Fogg, an MD with extensive experience as a primary care physician and hospitalist, spent years working with patients from diverse backgrounds. His time in these roles illuminated the immense challenges patients face when chronic conditions go unmanaged. Metabolic disease and obesity are at the forefront of these challenges. Determined to be part of the solution and empower people before they reach the point of illness, Dr. Fogg, Bryant Salmon, and Meredith Salmon have designed an innovative program that blends cutting-edge technology with hands-on support: the WOW Weight Loss Program. “We don’t believe in cookie-cutter solutions,” says Dr. Fogg with conviction. “Every person’s body, lifestyle, and goals are different. That’s why personalization and patient safety are at the core of what we do.” The program begins with a comprehensive DEXA scan, offering an in-depth look at body composition. This data is coupled with VO2 Max testing to assess cardiovascular fitness, alongside detailed blood panels to uncover any metabolic or hormonal hurdles. Armed with these insights, the WOW team collaborates to craft individualized plans, ensuring clients embark on a path tailored just for them. Clients also receive one-on-one sessions with the clinic’s passionate certified nutritionist, Deena Thompson. “We focus on long-term lifestyle changes,” Deena enthusiastically shares. That means prioritizing protein intake, emphasizing resistance training to preserve and build muscle, and helping clients adopt habits that truly last.” One of the program’s standout features is its use of GLP-1 agonist medications, such as Semaglutide and Tirzepatide. These groundbreaking treatments are transforming the landscape of weight loss science by helping clients regulate appetite and improve insulin sensitivity, among other benefits. For many, these medications represent the missing piece 64 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

of the puzzle, making it possible to overcome longstanding barriers to weight loss. “I’ve seen the incredible difference these medications have made in patients’ physical and mental health,” Dr. Fogg passionately explains. “I’ve also seen poorly managed GLP-1 scenarios where patient health has been compromised rather than improved, so creating a program where these medications are used safely and in conjunction with nutrition and lifestyle coaching was our goal.” Each member of the WOW team brings valuable experience and insight to the weight loss program, but Meredith brings the unique perspective of having gained and lost significant weight herself. Her weight gain story is relatable to many. Like it often does, it started gradually for Meredith. The stress of several big moves and life decisions led to a few pounds here and there. Her clothes were getting snug, but things still felt manageable. The significant stressors kept coming, and before long, it was time to buy her “first wave of fat clothes,” as she describes it with a hint of

humor. “I am a believer in buying and enjoying clothes that fit whatever size body you are living in, but that belief system can get really expensive when your size is constantly changing,” she jokes. Tragically, in August 2019, Meredith experienced the sudden death of her only brother, and from that moment, her weight gain quickly spiraled from manageable to out of control. “I had never experienced grief like that before. It was crushing. We were living with my parents at the time of his passing, and working through my own grief while having a front-row seat to theirs was extremely difficult. My brain’s

© Best Version Media “I hope my story will be a lighthouse for people lacking hope and direction, but I also want them to know that I’m right there in the boat with them. We’re all on a journey to optimal health, and we’re figuring it out together!” altered relationship with food was one of the most confusing parts of grief for me. I lost all interest in healthy foods that I normally loved—developed aversions, even. All I wanted was bread.”

everything to lose weight in the past. I had had success with macro counting and tracking previously, but I had a huge mental block around that process and dreaded getting back into it.”

Meredith gained an additional 25 pounds in a very short span. She describes genuinely not being able to recognize herself in the mirror. “I would catch a glimpse of myself and literally do a double take. I was 20 lbs heavier than I was 9 months pregnant with my heaviest pregnancy, and I felt completely detached from the person staring back at me in the mirror.”

By chance, Meredith spoke to a stranger who provided her with the contact information for a nutritionist. “Honestly, I took his information to be polite. In my head, I was thinking, ‘I don’t need a nutritionist. I know everything about calories in, calories out. I know about macros. I could probably teach HIM about nutrition,” Meredith recounts. Still, she made an appointment for a free consultation, and that consultation changed everything. “This was the first time nutrition for metabolic health had been introduced as a concept for me. Of course, eating a macro-balanced diet IS eating for metabolism, but it’s not usually emphasized like that. Learning to eat for metabolism, meaning eating with an intentional focus on maintaining balanced blood sugar, was a total game changer.”

Even more concerning, however, was that Meredith’s rapid weight gain led her to develop a condition known as Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH), otherwise known as Pseudotumor Cerebri. Essentially, her body was accumulating too much cerebral spinal fluid and causing her debilitating headaches and vision changes—thus mimicking the symptoms of a brain tumor. The excess fluid in the brain causes the optic nerves to swell, leading to vision changes and loss that can be permanent if not addressed quickly. “I had never been a headache person. Before this time, I had only had a handful of headaches in my whole life,” Meredith said. “I started having these terrible headaches that never went away, but I was so stressed, eating so poorly, and had gained so much weight that I felt like those were reasonable explanations for the headaches. I never considered that it could be something more serious until I started losing my vision. Meredith made an appointment with her ophthalmologist, and he quickly diagnosed her with IIH. He prescribed her medication to reduce the pressure in her head and advised her to lose weight. Over the next year, Meredith worked hard to shed enough weight to be able to stop the medication. “I wish that was the end of the story,” she said. “I lost the weight and kept it off and lived happily ever after.” Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case, as many emotionally driven forces behind the weight gain were still present. Meredith’s weight started creeping back up, and by May 2022, she was nearly back to her heaviest weight and seeking new options. “I felt like I had tried

Experience Wellness Like Never Before 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

• RMR

• Dry and Infrared Saunas

• VO2 Max Testing

• Full-body DEXA Scan • Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy • IV Therapy

• Weight Loss Management • Joint Injections • Nutritional Counseling

Following this way of eating, Meredith was able to lose about 50 pounds, bringing the total of her weight loss journey to 60 lbs. “Sometimes a concept just has to be worded differently for it to click for you finally, and that’s what happened for me.” Meredith’s story of weight gain and loss is unique but also familiar to countless people, and she’s thrilled to be able to use her experience to help her patients at the WOW Clinic find their own success. “I hope my story will be a lighthouse for people lacking hope and direction, but I also want them to know that I’m right there in the boat with them. We’re all on a journey to optimal health, and we’re figuring it out together!” The journey is challenging at times, but it’s also one of growth, self-discovery, and resilience, especially when you have the knowledge of the compassionate team at WOW by your side. Focus on progress, not perfection, and celebrate the moments when you feel stronger, healthier, and more confident. To reach the team, visit their website at wowclinic.com/team and schedule your consultation today!

Wasatch Optimal Wellness Clinic: Health, performance, and wellness intertwine amidst the breathtaking Wasatch Back. We’re dedicated to guiding the communities of Wasatch and Summit Counties towards their optimal well-being.

Book Your Appointment Today Give Us a Call (435) 800-6WOW or Scan Below

Address 1716 N Highway 40, Ste 200 Heber City, UT 84032 Email info@wowclinic.com JANUARY 2025 // 65

A higher level of personal care is here. Intermountain Concierge Health – a step beyond traditional healthcare. This premium service offers members direct access to a physician and care team, ensuring personalized attention whenever you need it. It’s all about exceptional care, tailored to your schedule and convenience. Experience the benefits of: › More one-on-one interaction and time › Longer appointments that are as frequent as you need › Access to the Concierge Health team at any time › Medical care navigation and collaboration with specialists

Call (435) 658-6750 or scan the QR code to learn more or to sign up for Concierge Health

Daniel Wightman, MD Internal Medicine

MG_0149776

66 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

Wyatt Horsley, MD Family Medicine

Expert specialty care, right in your neighborhood. Our board-certified physicians and caregivers offer personalized, comprehensive care designed to meet your unique needs.

With multiple locations in the Wasatch Back, quality care is always close to home. › Audiology › Cardiology › Dermatology › Ear, Nose & Throat › General Surgery › Gastrointestinal

› Neurosurgery › OB-GYN and Women’s Health › Pain Management › Sports Medicine and Sports Performance › Sleep Medicine › Urology

Scan the QR code to learn more, find locations, and view a complete list of available services. MG_0151918

JANUARY 2025 // 67

H E A LT H A N D W E L L N E S S C O R N E R

BY HILARY REITER AZZARETTI AND KAREN BOE

Nationally Renowned Fertility Experts Debut in Northern Utah FIRST REPRODUCTIVE CLINIC IN THE STATE OFFERING HOLISTIC SERVICES THAT ADDRESS UNMET NEEDS OF PEOPLE WHO ASPIRE TO BUILD FAMILIES Wellnest’s Integrated Fertility Solutions Support Individuals on Their Path to Parenthood in a Region with Limited Access to Fertility Care and Long Wait Lists for Patients. wide range of fertility-related medical services in addition to holistic services. They are committed to helping people navigate their fertility journeys with empathy, respect, and the highest standards of medical excellence through personalized treatment plans, resourceful use of technology, and a supportive network of highly qualified professionals. Wellnest’s medical team is led by Dr. Nastaran Foyouzi, a highly respected specialist in reproductive endocrinology and medical genetics and Chief Medical Officer is Dr. Nicole Noyes, MD, FACOG, a board-certified Reproductive Endocrinologist

Wellnest, a new state-of-the-art fertility clinic, is launching its Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) services center here. Now open for initial patient care with virtual appointments, the physical clinic will debut in early 2025 at 1491 East Ridgeline Drive, South Ogden, serving as a center for comprehensive fertility solutions with a lab on site. The Ogden location is the first of several clinics being planned in secondary markets around the U.S. where people have little to no access to fertility care. A panel of nationally renowned experts in the field of reproductive medicine provides a

PHONE 801-609-1442

WEBSITE

www.wellnestfertility.com

ADDRESS 1491 East Ridgeline Drive South Ogden, UT 88405

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 PHONE

• Fertility Diagnostics Testing

MEDIA 801-609-1442 KIT 2024 WEBSITE

• IVF Care • Intrauterine Insemination

Hilary Reiter Azzaretti

www.wellnestfertility.com

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

68 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

Redhead Marketing & PR

hilary@redheadmarketingpr.com

• Fertility Preservation

• Now Accepting New Patients

MEDIA INQUIRIES:

ADDRESS

1491 East Ridgeline Drive South Ogden, UT 88405

with more than 30 years of experience. They are joined by a compassionate, dedicated care team for each patient. "Our work in Ogden will serve as a catalyst for change when it comes to nationwide accessibility to fertility care,” says Wellnest’s Medical Director, Dr. Nastaran Foyouzi, who is board-certified in both Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility and Human/ Medical Genetics. “There are correctable causes to the infertility puzzle. With the foremost clinical experts in our field working together, we are focused broadly on infertility and integrate our approach for patients with general wellness and mental health resources, helping to remove any isolation or shame that can be part of this emotional trek.” Fertility can be incredibly complex, and each person’s experience is unique. Wellnest exists to make the path to parenthood a hopeful and transformative journey that is both accessible and affordable while upholding the principles of trustworthiness, compassion, mindfulfulness, and resourcefulness. While most local fertility providers’ focus is solely on the medical aspects, Wellnest’s team brings together supplemental services such as mental health, nutrition, stress relief and more, offering a complete fertility hub. Wellnest services include the only onsite cutting-edge embryology lab in the Weber-Davis County region, fertility diagnostics testing, IVF care, intrauterine insemination, fertility preservation, health and nutrition classes, and wrap-around support services like yoga, acupuncture, mental

health care, counseling and more. Maintaining a safe fertility services laboratory is paramount to ensuring safety and success for Wellnest’s patients. A proactive approach to risk mitigation involves implementing robust systems designed to alleviate risks at every step of the IVF process. Through cutting-edge technology, continuous monitoring, and vigorous safety protocols, Wellnest enacts every measure to maintain the highest standards for providing a secure environment for embryo development. Wellnest professionals maintain a pristine lab environment by minimizing disturbance with advanced monitoring technology, monitoring samples with cryostorage, and carefully securing lab access. The care team adheres to a comprehensive set of operating procedures and undergoes rigorous training and continuing education programs. One in eight couples in the United States has difficulty conceiving or carrying a pregnancy, and many of those couples do not have access to Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Services. And even as the demand for fertility services increases, 20 million women in the U.S. do not live within a geographic area that offers ART services, including the Northern Utah region. That’s why Wellnest chose Ogden as the birthplace of its mission to provide holistic fertility care to families nationwide. "Our patient–centered approach delivers a fulfilling fertility care experience that revolves around our clients’ personalized needs,” adds Wellnest’s Chief Medical Officer, Nicole

Noyes, MD, FACOG. "Everyone deserves to be educated and assisted in their fertility care. We are here to listen and treat people with empathy and a holistic approach to determine what options are right for them. We truly believe that healthcare is local, and we look forward to demonstrating our commitment to Ogden and giving back to the community.” Utah’s fertility rate decreased by 25 percent from 2010 to 2022, one of the fastest declines in the nation. This is primarily due to reduced birth rates in women ages 20 to 24. Economic factors such as housing and childcare costs, people postponing marriage and childbearing influence fertility rate declines. The need for more services in northern Utah is at peak level. The Ogden/Clearfield area is one of the top three centers in the U.S. without direct access to an IVF clinic. Typical wait times for local providers range between three to five months. Wellnest seeks to change that by making everyone’s path to parenthood both accessible and affordable. “Fertility care is a hot national topic right now. It is encouraging that many public figures courageously share their stories of family building to help normalize the prevalence of fertility challenges,” says Heather West, CEO of Wellnest. “Nationwide, roughly 10 percent of the population suffers from infertility. By starting this well-funded medical practice in Ogden, we will truly understand the landscape here and then have a larger impact across the country, helping more people realize their dream of becoming parents.”

ABOUT WELLNEST: The first of several clinics being planned in secondary markets across the U.S. where people have little to no access to fertility care, Wellnest is a new, state-of-the-art fertility clinic for Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) in Ogden, Utah. Wellnest makes the path to parenthood a hopeful and transformative journey that is both accessible and affordable - upholding the principles of trustworthiness, compassion, mindfulfulness, and resourcefulness. The team of leading fertility clinicians is committed to helping people navigate their personal fertility journeys with empathy, respect, and the highest standards of medical excellence through personalized treatment plans, resourceful use of technology, and a supportive network of highly qualified professionals. Patients benefit from a complete range of holistic fertility services, including emotional, mental, and physical support services. Wellnest is inspired by the hope of each patient it serves and the potential to meet the needs of those currently unable to access fertility care. For more information, https://www.wellnestfertility.com/ JANUARY 2025 // 69

New Year, Healthier You:

Park City’s own Wellness and Esthetics was proud to be the first to publicly debut the advanced technology of TheraLight 360+ full body light therapy in Utah.

The Role of Light Therapy in Wellness Goals By Dr. Giselle M. Batcheller, DDS, IBDM

January brings fresh starts, filled with motivation and new wellness goals. Yet, with so many options, staying consistent can feel challenging. Full-body light therapy has been a favorite biohacking secret of mine for years, as it offers a simple, accessible, and effective way to support your journey to a healthier, more energized you. The Simplicity of Light Therapy Full-body red and near-infrared light therapy provides a gentle boost to wellness goals. In just 12–15 minutes, it fits easily into any routine, allowing you to relax while the light works on supporting natural healing processes. Better Sleep for a Fresh Start Quality sleep is a cornerstone of health, especially in winter. Light therapy supports the body’s circadian rhythm, promoting deeper, more restful sleep. Better sleep can lead to greater energy and mental clarity, essentials for achieving your goals. Imagine starting each day feeling rested and focused. Reduced Inflammation for a Healthier You Inflammation can hinder wellness, leading to discomfort and affecting physical performance. Red and nearinfrared light help reduce inflammation by supporting cellular repair and circulation, leading to faster recovery and fewer aches, making it easier to enjoy the activities that empower you.

Increased Energy to Fuel Your Goals Short winter days can leave us feeling sluggish, but light therapy provides a natural energy boost by supporting mitochondrial health—the “powerhouse” of our cells. It enhances cellular energy, helping you feel more alert and active, while promoting fullbody wellness. Imagine a simple solution that empowers you to stay focused and thrive. How Light Therapy Supports Long-Term Wellness Light therapy isn’t just about a temporary boost; it’s about consistent, long-term wellness. Like healthy eating and regular exercise, light therapy can become a vital part of your self-care. Each session is an investment in your future health, helping you maintain a balanced, resilient body that’s ready for life’s goals. A Gentle Step Toward a Healthier You Lifestyle changes can feel daunting, but light therapy offers a straightforward way to nurture health. Each session supports your body to feel its best. In a world filled with complex wellness trends, full-body light therapy stands out as simple yet highly effective, making it easy to stay committed to your goals. This year, let your wellness journey start with a step that’s approachable and impactful. Whether you’re aiming to improve sleep, reduce inflammation, or gain energy, light therapy is here to support you every step of the way.

I’m Dr. Giselle Batcheller, Utah’s light therapy, laser, and PRF pioneer. Proud Parkite and member of the international faculty of PRF experts at PRFEDU. Since 2018, I’ve trained doctors in advanced laser and PRF applications. For more on lasers, light, PRF, and regenerative medicine, follow social media and website updates via DrBatcheller.com.

Special Gift for Neighbors of Park City Readers: Call or Text 435.631.2113 to mention this article in Park City Neighbors Magazine to enjoy a complimentary TheraLight 360+ light therapy session this month.

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light + laser + performance + Skin + joints + Pain + sleep + microneedling + PRF + injections + pelvic Floor AS SEEN IN DR. GISELLE M. BATCHELLER

CARE ESTHETICS NATIONAL PROVIDER OF THE YEAR

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H E A LT H A N D W E L L N E S S C O R N E R

BY ERIN SEAMONS, AKA EARTHY ERIN

BREATHE BETTER, LIVE BETTER:

The Transformative Power of Pranayama

To breathe is to live. Our breath is always with us, quietly keeping us alive, but it also holds the key to creating real, meaningful change in our lives. Ancient yogic traditions understood the profound impact of the breath on the body, mind, and spirit, and their wisdom is more relevant than ever. Intentional breathing, especially through practices like pranayama, has the power to enhance daily life in profound ways, offering benefits for both the body and mind. Pranayama, one of yoga’s foundational practices, dates back thousands of years. The term comes from the Sanskrit words “prana,” which means life force or vital energy, and ayama means control or expansion. Rooted in ancient Indian texts like the Vedas and Upanishads, pranayama was later systematized in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras as one of the eight limbs of yoga. Pranayama encompasses various techniques that extend and regulate the breath to harmonize energy within the body. It’s a practice that not only calms the mind but also revitalizes the body, promoting mental clarity and overall well-being.

MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL BENEFITS: ▶ Reduced Anxiety and Stress - Techniques like box breathing or alternate nostril breathing calm the mind, alleviating anxiety and stress by focusing attention on the present moment. ▶ Enhanced Focus and Productivity - Breathwork cultivates mindfulness, improving concentration and cognitive function— perfect for resetting during a busy day.

In Ayurveda, prana is the life force that animates all living beings. Pranayama is used to balance this energy by clearing nadis (energy channels) and harmonizing the doshas (individual constitutions). This helps promote physical vitality, emotional equilibrium, and mental focus.

▶ Emotional Regulation - Practices like deep belly breathing can help navigate intense emotions, fostering resilience and calmness.

Similarly, TCM emphasizes the flow of qi (life energy) through breath. Practices like qigong and tai chi integrate breath control to maintain health and prevent illness by ensuring the smooth circulation of qi through the body’s meridians.

▶ Strengthened Mind-Body Connection - Intentional breathing increases awareness of physical sensations and emotional states, helping you tune into your body’s needs and maintain balance.

These diverse traditions highlight a shared truth: the breath connects us to our inner and outer worlds, offering a powerful gateway to balance and healing. Incorporating mindful breath practices into your day can bring both immediate and long-term benefits for your body and mind. PHYSICAL BENEFITS: ▶ Enhanced Respiratory Health - Deep, diaphragmatic breathing strengthens respiratory muscles, increases lung capacity, and optimizes oxygen exchange. This improves overall respiratory efficiency and resilience. ▶ Stress Reduction - Techniques like slow, deep breathing activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation, reducing cortisol levels, and enhancing immune function. ▶ Improved Circulation - Conscious breathing supports cardiovascular health by improving blood flow, which delivers oxygen and nutrients more effectively throughout the body. ▶ Detoxification - Deep breaths stimulate lymphatic drainage, helping the body eliminate waste and toxins naturally. ▶ Pain Management - Breathwork, combined with mindfulness, can reduce muscle tension and redirect focus, helping to alleviate chronic pain.

▶ Better Sleep - Breathing techniques such as the 4-7-8 method are excellent for quieting racing thoughts, promoting relaxation, and improving sleep quality.

Making breathwork a regular part of your routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s how you can start: ▶ Morning Energizer: Begin your day with 3–5 minutes of deep belly breathing. Place one hand on your belly, inhale deeply through your nose, and feel your belly rise. Exhale fully through your mouth, feeling your belly fall. ▶ Midday Reset: Try box breathing to refocus during a busy day. Inhale for a count of four, hold for four, exhale for four, and pause for four before repeating. ▶ Evening Relaxation: Wind down before bed with the 4-7-8 technique. Inhale for four counts, hold for seven, and exhale slowly for eight counts. This calms the nervous system and prepares you for restful sleep. ▶ Intentional Moments: Set reminders to pause throughout the day and take five deep, mindful breaths. Breath is more than just a physiological process—it’s a tool for transformation. By dedicating even a few moments each day to conscious breathing, you can enhance your physical health, calm your mind, and deepen your connection to yourself and the world around you. Let’s start with a simple question: How are you breathing right now? Take a deep inhale, exhale fully, and let the exploration begin. JANUARY 2025 // 71

H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S C O R N E R

BY ISABELLA VENEGAS

Exercise and Mental Health:

Matt’s Story

Taking care of our mental health truly is a necessity. While this sounds good, when will we finally take action upon these words? Exercise is linked directly to making an impact on our mental health. From this fact, many questions may arise: Where should I exercise? How do I find motivation to do so? And, finally, can exercise really change my life? According to a professional gym trainer by the name of Matt, the answer most definitely is YES. Matt was born in 1990 and moved from place to place across the globe, then ultimately settled in Utah with his family. He loved all kinds of sports, had a knack for communication, enjoyed hanging out with friends, and was very outgoing. However, when Matt was only a preteen, his father began to sexually abuse him, something that impacted the rest of his life. “It was at this point that my mental health journey began,” he shares. When Matt started his senior year of high school, another life-changing event occurred. The abuse came to light, casting high emotions on that year. Playing sports and working out was a healthy place he could turn to, so he began going to the gym. “I felt in control in the gym,” says Matt. “It was me versus me; I was not comparing myself to anybody else.” At first, Matt continues, the main reason for attending the gym was to improve his physical appearance. In 2011, he graduated with a degree in sports

science. At this point, he was in and out of working at gyms. When the gym he was working at went under, he moved into construction. He liked the fast pace, but soon, the stress was too much, and he suffered a mental breakdown, causing him to pursue counseling and reevaluate his life. For the past eight months, Matt has worked at a local gym as a professional personal trainer. When asked what the best thing about his job is, he replies immediately, “The people.” Matt currently works with 45 diverse and motivated clients. “Everyone is trying to improve themselves. We all struggle, but we are all working for the same goal: self-improvement.” According to Matt, in the gym environment, there is a community and safety; there is no competition, and support is being given from all fellow members. “As with anywhere,” he says, “there can be some intimidating people in the gym, but they are just people with insecurities as well.” Matt’s passion is helping people with physical and mental struggles. “Counseling,” he adds, “has helped me tap into areas that others have trouble seeing for themselves.” To show that anyone can go to the gym no matter who they are, Matt shares an inspiring story of one of his client’s exercise journeys. The woman, whom we will call “Tori,” was in her early fifties. She was around 300 pounds before meeting Matt; weight for her had always been a struggle. She was brilliant, studious, and was a very successful woman, but she was unhappy with how she looked. She and Matt worked together in May of 2023—and she lost 100 pounds! Matt says that Tori is now getting out more and going on dates. “This is why I keep doing what I do,” he says. “Nobody should ever be judged.” I ask Matt, “What if you are struggling to go to the gym?” He admits that the hardest part is starting. “It would appear everyone is looking and making judgments when, in fact, the members won’t remember anyone later,” he says. “Everyone starts at different levels, some more advanced than others, which is nothing to be ashamed of. Following this awkward stage, people will begin to help one another and greet you.” He also admits that it’s scary because it’s new, but that you have to start somewhere. New Year’s Day is the time of resolutions, and for many, working out at their local gym is at the top of the list. However, I wonder, why do these resolutions seem to fade away so quickly? On this subject, Matt says that people add a timeline to their goal, often creating a start and finish line before they can begin. “This is setting yourself up for failure,” he says. “Instead, one should start with small goals and begin immediately—don’t put it off! It takes sacrifice to start.” When attending, he continues, it is best to take time to look back and celebrate wins. “In need of accountability? Seek professional help such as a personal trainer. Focus on showing up,” Matt adds enthusiastically. “You can show up once, then twice, then three times! And there you go, a habit!” Mental health and physical health impact each other. Matt passionately says that if he would have given up on exercising and going to the gym, he would be in a very dark place. His health improved exponentially as he worked out more. Working out may seem like a small part of mental health, but its impact is life-changing. He challenges people to start NOW: “Don’t wait for big days like New Year’s Day to start. Go to the gym with family members, friends, or even by yourself. You can start anywhere, and whether you know it or not, you have the energy.” Matt triumphantly concludes, “It’s one day or day ONE!”

72 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

The Power of Rest:

Embracing Winter Through the Water Element Winter is a season of stillness and introspection, a time to embrace the energy of rest and rejuvenation. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), winter corresponds to the Water element, which governs the Kidney and Bladder organs. These organs play a central role in maintaining our vitality and resilience, making winter the ideal time to nurture them. THE KIDNEY AND BLADDER IN TCM The Kidneys are considered the foundation of life in TCM, housing our essence, which is the source of our vitality, growth, and reproduction. They regulate water metabolism, govern the bones and marrow (including the brain), and are associated with willpower and endurance. A well-nourished Kidney system provides the energy needed to navigate life’s challenges. The Bladder, paired with the Kidney, is responsible for storing and excreting fluids. It plays a supportive role in maintaining balance and ensuring that the body’s energy flows smoothly. Together, these organs are key to physical and emotional stability, particularly during winter. SIGNS OF KIDNEY AND BLADDER IMBALANCE When the Water element is out of balance, it can manifest as: • Fatigue or low energy. • Weakness in the lower back or knees. • Fear or lack of willpower. • Dry skin, brittle hair, or frequent urination. By tuning into the energy of winter, we can harmonize these organs and strengthen the Water element. HOW TO NOURISH THE KIDNEY AND BLADDER IN WINTER 1. Rest and Recharge: Winter is the season of rest, aligning with the Water element’s stillness. To conserve energy, prioritize sleep and relaxation. Consider slowing down your schedule, allowing yourself to reflect and reset. 2. Eat Warming, Nourishing Foods: Support the Kidneys and Bladder with foods that strengthen the Water element and provide warmth during the cold months: • Warming spices: Ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. • Mineral-rich foods: Seaweed, black sesame seeds, and dark leafy greens. • Kidney-supportive foods: Black beans, walnuts, bone broth, and fish. • Avoid excessive cold and raw foods, as they can strain the Kidney energy. 3. Hydrate Mindfully: Even in winter, hydration is essential for the Bladder’s function. Drink warm water or herbal teas, such as nettle, dandelion, or goji berry tea, to support fluid balance and nourish the Kidneys. 4. Strengthen Your Core: In TCM, the lower back is considered the “home” of the Kidneys. Gentle exercises like yoga, qigong, or tai chi help strengthen this area and support energy flow. 5. Embrace Fear as a Teacher: The Water element is associated with the emotion of fear. Instead of avoiding fear, use the quiet of winter to reflect on its source. Journaling, meditation, or acupuncture can help transform fear into wisdom and resilience. 6. Protect Your Energy: Stay warm and protect your lower back and feet, as cold can weaken the Kidneys. Wearing a scarf or adding extra layers to your midsection helps preserve your body’s internal warmth. 7. Try Acupuncture: Acupuncture can balance the Water element, strengthen the Kidney and Bladder meridians, and restore harmony during the winter season. It’s an excellent way to address fatigue, support immune health, and manage stress.

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.

Reflecting on the Wisdom of Winter

www.kallieharrison.com

Winter invites us to pause, listen inwardly, and honor the rhythms of nature. By aligning with the Water element, we not only replenish our energy but also lay the foundation for growth and vitality in the coming months.

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Take this season to slow down, nurture yourself, and allow the stillness of winter to guide you into a state of balance and renewal.

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Cell: (801) 703-5280 JANUARY 2025 // 73

SKIN + BODY + SOUL Are you over-exfoliating your skin? “The key to a healthy glow is knowing how to exfoliate in a way that suits your unique skin type, lifestyle, and even the current season.”

Exfoliation can be a powerful tool in your skincare routine, but it’s easy to overdo it. The key to a healthy glow is knowing how to exfoliate in a way that suits your unique skin type, lifestyle, and even the current season. When it comes to exfoliation, I prefer a gentle polishing approach over harsh scrubbing. This method allows for a light buffing of the skin, helping with brightness, removing stagnant energy, and boosting circulation—all without compromising the skin’s natural barrier. Signs You Might Be Over-Exfoliating If your skin is feeling tight, dry, or looking more irritated than usual, it may be a sign of over-exfoliation. Other indicators include increased redness, flakiness, or an uncomfortable sensitivity. How Often Should You Exfoliate This depends on your skin’s needs and other factors like environment and climate. For most, once or twice a week is sufficient. However, if you’re using additional products like enzymes or retinols, you’ll want to be extra mindful. These ingredients can also act as exfoliants, and using them simultaneously can push your skin into over-exfoliation territory. “Beauty is not in the face; beauty is a light in the heart.” -unknown Should you be using Enzymes and Retinols? This depends on your skin’s needs and other factors like environment and climate. For most, once or twice a week is sufficient. However, if you’re using additional products like enzymes or retinols, you’ll want to be extra mindful. These ingredients can also act as exfoliants, and using them simultaneously can push your skin into over-exfoliation territory.

CHRISTA JUTRAS Christa Jutras is a Wellness Esthetician and has been committed to helping people feel their best in their skin for over 20 years.

With Glowing Gratitude,

Christa Jutras

For more tips and holistic beauty advice, follow us on Instagram or visit our website. Let’s journey together through the seasons, caring for your skin, body and soul every step of the way.

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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S C O R N E R

BY CAMILLA PETERSON

RECLAIM YOUR POWER & TRANSCEND YOUR SELF-LOVE There are moments in life that can challenge everything you thought you knew. For me, that moment came when my husband told me, after 17 years of marriage, that he no longer felt the same way about me. In an instant, I felt lost and completely crushed. Have you ever felt so unlovable that your entire world seemed to shatter within seconds? In the five years leading up to that moment, I underwent a profound transformation. From being a stay-at-home mom, I stepped into the role of CEO in our 10-year-old dental tech business and later became a Transformation Coach, building my own successful business. It looked like I had it all—business success, a beautiful family, and everything anyone could ever dream of. But behind closed doors, no one would have guessed I was struggling in my marriage, and I faced challenges in my personal life. I had lost nearly all desire for intimacy, and my husband was frustrated. I became caught up in my own mind, and the emotional distance between us grew, but I didn’t know how to bridge it. One morning, my husband reached out for connection, but instead of feeling the same way, I felt detached, wondering if something was wrong

with me. Frustrated, he went to the bathroom and closed the door. The rejection we both felt, along with the shame and guilt, became overwhelming. That moment was a wake-up call—by then, I knew I had to do something to unlock my sense of self-love. At that time, I was already a Master Practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Time Line Therapy®. These tools had helped me elevate my business, and I wondered: What would happen if I used them to unlock my true self? What if they could help me break through my blocks and reconnect with my emotions? So, I did. I applied the same techniques I had used to build my career to my personal growth. The results were incredible! I rediscovered joy and fulfillment in ways I had never experienced before. It was a powerful and transformative experience. Despite my efforts, I realized it was too late to mend my marriage. I came to understand that I held a deep belief—that if I succeeded financially, my personal relationships would suffer. This belief had manifested in my marriage, leaving me at a low point. My confidence was shattered, and I knew I had a choice: Do I keep pretending to

maintain appearances, or do I face the hard truth and choose to divorce? I chose divorce. It was the hardest decision I’ve ever made, one I never imagined I’d face. Divorce was painful, yet it led me on a healing journey to rediscover myself. Confronting my fears, insecurities, and deep wounds wasn’t easy, but NLP and Time Line Therapy® empowered me to break free from the limits of my mind and find new levels of confidence and joy in every area of my life. For the first time in years, I fully believe in myself and feel deeply confident in who I am. I know I deserve to live my best life, and I believe you can do the same! If this resonates with you, I invite you to explore the tools that helped me transform my life. You deserve to feel joy, connection, and fulfillment— throughout all aspects of your life! To begin your journey, I’d love to invite you to my FREE Masterclass: Unlock Your Deepest Desires in Your Relationships. My hope is that you will be inspired to Reclaim Your Power and Transcend Your Self-Love. Feel free to reach out; I’m here for you.

Hi, 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 minds and get unstuck in their businesses and careers. Through my work, I've discovered a powerful connection between professional success and personal fulfillment, as well as the relationships one has with themselves and others. I’ve had the privilege of working with founders, CEOs, and professionals—helping them overcome trauma, anxiety, and more. My clients have reclaimed their power, finding greater freedom, joy, and connection in their personal and professional lives. My mission is to guide you on a transformative journey of self-discovery, unlocking deeper purpose and fulfillment in every area of your life. I’d be honored to support you as you take a leap toward your fullest potential! www.CamillaPeterson.com • Located in Cottonwood Heights, UT • Business Phone: 385-526-7669

JANUARY 2025 // 75

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76 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

FITNESS & WELLBEING CORNER

EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR

BY ALLIE VACANTI, ALIGN SPA FRONT DESK MANAGER

What Makes the Hydrafacial So Special? When it comes to skincare, there’s no shortage of facial treatments to choose from. But if you’re looking for a facial to address multiple skin concerns in one session, the Hydrafacial is in a league of its own. Unlike traditional facials that may focus on just one or two aspects of skincare, the Hydrafacial offers a comprehensive, multi-step approach that targets several skin concerns simultaneously. Here’s what makes it stand out. MULTI-STEP, MULTI-BENEFIT TREATMENT The key difference between the Hydrafacial and other facials is its ability to address multiple skin needs in a single session. While traditional facials often focus on cleansing, exfoliation, or extraction separately, the Hydrafacial combines all of these steps, plus hydration and nourishment, into one streamlined treatment. It uses a patented vortex technology to cleanse, exfoliate, extract, and infuse the skin with serums tailored to your specific skin type. This means you get a thorough deep clean, smoother texture, clearer pores, and a fresh, glowing complexion in just about 30-45 minutes — no need for multiple appointments, and perfect for our commitment-phobes and workaholics. NON-INVASIVE AND NO DOWNTIME Many traditional facials involve more manual steps like squeezing, scrubbing, or even chemical peels, which can sometimes leave your skin red or irritated for up to days afterward. In contrast, the Hydrafacial is gentle and non-invasive, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin or anyone looking to avoid post-facial downtime. The treatment uses a suction device to extract impurities, and because it’s so gentle, you can walk out of your appointment with instantly glowing skin — no redness, no irritation -- and straight to your important events looking picture ready. CUSTOMIZATION FOR YOUR SKIN’S NEEDS One of the standout features of the Hydrafacial is its customization options. Whether you’re dealing with acne, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, or dehydration - hello Winter! - the treatment can be tailored to address each specific skin concern. The serums used during the treatment are packed with nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and peptides, which help provide the consistent post-treatment glow that we’ve grown to love. IMMEDIATE, NOTICEABLE RESULTS Unlike traditional facials, which may require several sessions to see results, the Hydrafacial delivers noticeable improvements in skin texture, tone, and hydration immediately. It’s the perfect treatment for those seeking quick results before an event or for a regular refresh. In short, the Hydrafacial is more than just a facial — it’s a skintransforming experience that combines the benefits of multiple treatments into one, making it a standout choice for anyone looking to achieve healthy, glowing skin with minimal effort. Give us a call and book your Hydrafacial treatment at Align Spa today!

JANUARY 2025 // 77

T R A V E L C O R N E R BY KIRSTEN KOHLWEY

SPONSORED BY NORTHLAND MOUNTAIN BOUTIQUE PHOTOS BY KIRSTEN KOHLWEY AND A.J. MELLOR

Kanab

From Hollywood Movies to Dunes require a flashlight to see the uneven passage. At the other end, we hike up a short sandy trail that ends at a curved alcove, which is likely a waterfall during rainfall.

Leaving the snow behind, my partner and I head to the southern border of Utah. Cove Fort, our first way station, is a historic stop along the Pony Express and telegraph lines. Free tours offered by missionaries give us a glimpse into the past. Did you know that clothes were reused by turning them into rugs, and then rags, until there just wasn’t enough fabric left? Even if you just stop for a picnic outside the fort, the volcanic rock structure is impressive. We chose to take SR-20 from I-15 to US-89, where the red-rock cliffs to the east glow in the light and rock formations to the west look like they should be in Bryce Canyon NP. The two hours to Mount Carmel Junction pass quickly. Just under a mile south from there, a right-turn on to Elephant Gap Road takes us to the Belly of the Dragon trailhead. The Belly of the Dragon is a man-made tunnel built to provide drainage under US-89. While this may not sound like a great stop, the divots carved by water running from the upper canyons over the years have turned the sandstone walls into a natural piece of art. The tunnel is long enough to

Not far south on US-89 is Moqui Cave, a natural cavern turned into a bar and dance hall during the early moviemaking days of Kanab. Entering the first room is free–the entrance fee of $7 gets us a three-minute tour and explanation of the bar area, after which we are left to wander on our own. Old dance music plays as we look around the large dark room. It is lit by an impressive collection of phosphorescent rocks. As a caver, I flinch at the stalactite samples from Leeman Cave, which I assume are from what is now known as Lehman Caves in Great Basin NP. Barely two minutes down the road, we stop for a hike to the sand caves, man-made in the 1970s to mine sand for glass production. Checkerboard patterns alternate with layers of multicolored sandstone as we hike towards a steep slope that can be climbed, with a rope providing some assistance. Young children slide down six-foot slopes and

explore the miscellaneous side trails in the narrow base area. The parking area for the sand caves is also where the road to the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary (BFAS) starts. We save that one for the next day and head to our hotel instead. I chose the Red Cliffs Best Western in Kanab because of its easy walkability to the sites within Kanab. Our room has a balcony, which I thought would be great for star viewing, but alas, it also

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78 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

Healthy Pets are Happier Pets. 2023

has a light that we have no control over, so it’s easy to see bright stars, although not the Milky Way. The walk to Little Hollywood is a mere five minutes. This free attraction displays sets from Westerns like The Outlaw Josey Wales, directed by and starring Clint Eastwood. Stars who have worked in Kanab include Kiefer Sutherland, John Wayne, and Charlton Heston. Looking at the slim sets truly highlights the magic of movies. To get to Little Hollywood, we enter through the gift shop. A large BBQ eating hall with TVs playing current sports offers various meats, and vegetarians are limited to mac ’n’ cheese and cobbler. We complete our tour of downtown Kanab by checking out some of the historic homes. The hotel that used to host the stars is now a photo store. The next day, we drive the loop through the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. At the visitor center, there are 10 kittens that a family of four are playing with, as well as a separate room to hang out with dogs. The sanctuary does offer scheduled tours, but we decide to go on a self-guided exploration of the property. Horses walk and eat in different pastures as we head deeper into Angel Canyon. Our first stop is a hike to Hidden Lake. We see a variety of birds, deer footprints, and ancient Puebloan ruins. Hidden Lake is a small lake filling a cave. This 1.5-mile hike is a pleasant break from driving, but it cannot compete with the impact of Angel’s Rest. We hear the wind chimes from the canyon below, the gentle wind playing a soothing tune with the chimes. The ashes of more than 10,000 pets have been buried in Angel’s Rest. Whitemarble cat sculptures, pictures of dogs, and stone bunnies decorate some of the gravestones. Every grave has a marker listing the names of the pets buried there. Some of the chimes are dedicated to specific pets. The view from Angel’s Rest is breathtaking, with benches sprinkled throughout. We happen to time our tour perfectly to stop at the Angel Village Café for lunch, which offers a great $5 vegan buffet with cold and hot choices, along with dessert, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Even if you don’t get there during lunch hours, the view from its patio is worth a stop. To enter any other buildings, a tour must be scheduled. I didn’t have BFAS on my original plan, but it’s well worth the drive. Straight across US-89 is the road to Coral Pink Sand Dunes. The road is paved, and it doesn’t take long before sand dunes appear. Once in the state park, we take the short hike that starts to the left of the overlook. We can see the wind shaping the landscape up close, and some of the signs are in buckets. The wind blows one over in the brief time we are there. We see the tracks of Ord’s kangaroo rats and listen to the wind as it moves sand, as if it were water flowing over a beach. People are sandboarding and head out on ATV adventures. Sandboards are available at the entrance station, and ROAM operates ATV tours. Hiking up one of those sand hills feels as if we have entered another world. The sand sifts into our shoes, and we find ourselves walking on sand cushions. It is easy to spend hours out there, taking pictures, playing in the sand.

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435-214-7963 JANUARY 2025 // 79

BY AIMEE L. COOK PHOTOS COURTESY OF DEER VALLEY RESORT

Exploring the Newly Expanded Deer Valley Resort and Grand Hyatt’s Salute to Service The newly expanded Deer Valley Resort is stepping into an exciting new chapter. Known for its pristine ski slopes and impeccable service, Deer Valley is welcoming a game-changing addition to its snowy haven: the Deer Valley East Village. And, in November 2024, Grand Hyatt Deer Valley welcomed its first guests. This impressive hotel features 381 meticulously designed guest accommodations, offering options to suit discerning luxury travelers. For those traveling with furry companions, Grand Hyatt Deer Valley has a dedicated in-room pet menu and a collaboration with local nonprofit Nuzzles & Co., where a portion of every pet fee is donated to support its animal rescue and rehabilitation mission. Families are welcomed and provided with many amenities to ensure an unforgettable stay. The dedicated Camp Hyatt Kids Club offers ageappropriate events and activities, ensuring fun entertainment for younger guests. Teens can gather at the vibrant Nexus Lounge, which features arcade-style consoles and interactive experiences. Standard rooms are ideally suited for families, with sleeper sofas in a separate living area, while the 55 residences offer even more space for those who want to spread out further. Beyond its accommodations, the property offers an authentic après-ski experience with musicforward entertainment, sophisticated dining to match a gourmand’s palate, and one of the largest mountainside event spaces in the nation. Grand Hyatt Deer Valley offers more than its upscale allure. Its heartfelt acknowledgment of our nation’s military heroes through its Salute to Service initiative reflects gratitude built into this luxury resort. Collaborating with the Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA) and Extell, Grand Hyatt Deer Valley pays tribute to our nation’s service members. This landmark publicprivate relationship acknowledges the sacrifices and dedication of our servicemen and women by offering exclusive discounts on lodging, food, and

beverages. The hotel reserves 100 discounted rooms nightly for active duty, reserve, retired military personnel, and National Guard members and Department of Defense employees. As part of this endeavor, the North Star Lounge provides a private and exclusive retreat where service members can unwind, forge connections, and create lasting memories. “We are able to extend care [to our military] when they need it most by reserving these 100 discounted rooms,” says Anthony Duggan, Grand Hyatt Deer Valley’s area vice president and general manager. “The rooms are scattered throughout the hotel, and the level of quality is something they won’t experience elsewhere. For us to be able to be there for the guys and gals who put their life on the line for us is one of the most rewarding things I have been able to do.” Staff Sergeant Jensen Martinez, an HVAC Technician with the Utah Air National Guard, was Grand Hyatt’s first military guest. In 2021, he was awarded the Utah Medal of Valor for his heroic efforts in rescuing two individuals from drowning at Starvation Reservoir. This year, he also served six months in Saudi Arabia and was fortunate to return before the birth of his seven-month-old daughter. “It is a beautiful location, and right from the start, from the valet to the people at the front desk, everyone was beyond nice to my family,” Jensen says. “We stayed two nights, ate fantastic food at Remington Hall, and did some sightseeing around the resort and into Park City. Being able to serve and get this discount is amazing.” Deer Valley’s allure is no longer confined to its famed winter wonderland. While the expanded ski terrain is bound to become a mecca for powder hounds, the resort’s strategic location ensures boundless opportunities for year-round exploration. Spring and summer adventurers can enjoy mountain biking, hiking, or paddling in the waters of Jordanelle Reservoir, all just moments away from Grand Hyatt.

80 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

Who’s eligible? All Active Duty, Reserve or National Guard, Retired Military, and Actively Serving Department of Defense Employees. For reservation inquiries, please email salutetoservice@hyatt.com. What are the rates? Category Rank E1–E6 $109, including a $10 discounted resort fee, plus tax Category Rank E7–E9, O1–O3 or WO1–CW3 $171, including a $20 discounted resort fee, plus tax Category Rank O4–O10 or CW4–CW5 $201, including a $30 discounted resort fee, plus tax Up to 100 rooms are held aside for the MWR/Salute to Service program 120 days in advance of arrival and are released on a sliding scale, with all rooms being released 15 days prior to arrival. There is the exception of peak periods identified below, only available to be booked 120-plus days prior to arrival. **There are no blackout dates, but there are peak occupancy periods where the rates are higher than they are the rest of the year: 2024

Festive 12/21/23 to 1/5/24

2025

MLK-Sundance 1/17 to 2/3/25 Presidents’ Day 2/14 to 2/18/25 Festive 12/20/25 to 1/4/26

2026

MLK-Sundance 1/16 to 2/2/26 Presidents’ Day 2/13 to 2/17/26

CHRISTIAN CENTER OF PARK CITY JANUARY UPDATE Our Counseling and Wellness Center is growing. The Christian Center of Park City is excited to announce that they are launching new offerings through the Counseling and Wellness Center. The Counseling services already include Accelerated Resolution Therapy (A.R.T), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and talk therapy for individuals, couples, families, and teens, in both English and Spanish. Starting this month, they are offering two types of Neurofeedback as additional options for gaining mental and emotional health. You may be asking, ‘What exactly is Neurofeedback’? Neurofeedback is a safe, non-invasive, and drug-free treatment that utilizes advanced technology to both optimize and help you self-regulate your brain’s performance. It is a type of biofeedback training of your brain that has been shown to improve the selfregulation of your brainwave patterns. It’s kind of like physical therapy for your brain. What is it effective to address? Neurofeedback has been shown to be effective with addressing a range of sleep conditions and mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD and trauma responses. We offer two types of Neurofeedback. • Infra-Low Frequency (ILF) Neurofeedback, also known as the “Othmer” technique of Neurofeedback. • Micro Current (MCN) Neurofeedback, also known as LENS or IASIS Micro Current Neurofeedback. How it works: For ILF Neurofeedback, sensors are placed on your scalp to detect your brain’s electrical activity (brain waves), and then through real-time, biofeedback in the form of visual, audio, and tactile signals, your brain “learns” how to self-regulate better. The length

of each session varies, however typically ILF will last between 20-45 minutes For MCN Neurofeedback, sensors are applied to the client’s scalp providing gentle electrical currents, which create a temporary disruption in brainwave patterns, allowing the brain to selfregulate and shift from fixed patterns. MCN typically lasts 5-10 minutes and is accompanied by traditional counseling. Clients typically don’t feel anything negative from the sensors being placed on the scalp. While everyone experiences neurofeedback differently, most clients report feeling relaxed and the client is fine to drive after the session. What’s best for you: Which neurofeedback is up to each client, depending on their presenting symptoms and comfort level. At CCPC, if you are seeking neurofeedback combined with traditional counseling, please contact counselingreception@ccofpc.org or call 435-6492260 x1 to be scheduled with one of our therapists. This option may be covered by Mental Health Insurance. If you are interested in stand-alone neurofeedback without a therapist, please contact Rob Harter at #435.776.5173 or you can email him at neurofeedback@ccofpc.org. Like we offer for all of our counseling services, we have scholarships available, if cost is a factor that may prevent you from otherwise seeking help. Other Resources to learn more about Neurofeedback: Find out the basics about ILF neurofeedback and the research around it. http://www.eeginfo.com Find out the basics about MCN neurofeedback and the research around it. https://microcurrentneurofeedback.com

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

PARK CITY CAMPUS 1283 Deer Valley Drive Park City, Utah 84060 (435) 649-2260

HEBER VALLEY CAMPUS 55 East Center Street Heber City, Utah 84032 @ChristianCenterofParkCity JANUARY 2025 // 81

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.

SCAN HERE TO LEARN ABOUT ALL THE WAYS YOU CAN HELP!

82 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

TOGETHER, WE DON’T JUST BUILD HOMES, WE BUILD BETTER LIVES! 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.

HABITAT OFFICES PO BOX 682704 PARK CITY, UTAH 84068 PHONE (435) 658-1400

CHARITY SPOTLIGHT

BY AIMEE L. COOK

SEVERAL ORGANIZATIONS UNITE TO BRING CLEAN WATER TO DEVELOPING NATIONS In a collaboration to improve access to clean water in developing countries, Water for Life Charity, ROAM Humanitarian, and StormWater Pros have joined forces to make a lasting impact. The partnership combines innovative solutions and generous contributions to bring vital resources to communities that need them most. Water for Life Charity, which was founded by James Brown and is known for its commitment to providing clean drinking water around the globe through a simple filtration system that uses a bucket, has partnered with ROAM Humanitarian, founded by Lindsay Bowen in 2020, to distribute these essential water filters in third-world countries. These filters, donated by Water for Life Charity, are crucial in providing safe drinking water and serve as educational tools to make a sustainable impact. ROAM Humanitarian, whose tagline is “Roam with purpose,” has volunteers who travel to these regions to train locals on how to effectively use the devices, and substantiate the importance of maintaining clean water sources. “Lindsay’s family and our family have been friends for a long time, and she offered to give us one of the [ROAM] trips to distribute our water filters,” says James. “We went to Fuji with our family, and it was amazing.” This grassroots initiative takes another step forward with the involvement of StormWater Pros, a company dedicated to stormwater management solutions, with Brig Christensen (EIT, CEO) at the helm. Understanding the critical needs of countless communities worldwide, StormWater Pros recently contributed $8,000 to ROAM Humanitarian’s latest endeavor in Tanzania. Its generous donation supports the installation of a well for a soon-to-be-built orphanage, ensuring that the children who will call it home will have access to safe, clean water. “With the donation, they will drill a water well that will extract water from the ground,” Brig says. “We are looking to continue to sponsor wells around the world to help communities get the clean water they need.”

The collaboration between these three entities highlights the power of collective action in addressing global challenges. By combining their unique capabilities, they aim to combat water scarcity—a pressing issue affecting millions of impoverished people. ROAM Humanitarian currently operates in eight countries, with an ambitious plan to expand its reach to 10 countries in the future. Each year, ROAM conducts 30 trips to various regions, consistently bringing Water for Life filters along. This ensures that communities lacking access to clean water receive the crucial resources needed to improve their living conditions. These strategic expansions and regular expeditions underscore ROAM’s commitment to making a profound, sustainable impact across the globe. “We have been in the travel industry for over a decade, and we have always felt like the best way to get to know a country is to serve the people,” Lindsay says. “Many people wanted to go on our trips, so we decided to do really impactful service. I wanted to create relationships and go back to the same places; it was a full-circle moment. We can still do travel and do it the best way.” The impact of this collaboration is profound. By improving the availability of clean water in regions that currently lack it, the partnership aims to reduce waterborne illnesses and promote better health outcomes. Additionally, by educating local communities on sustainable practices, these organizations are empowering individuals to take charge of their resources, fostering a culture of resilience and self-sufficiency. Through their ongoing efforts, Water for Life Charity, ROAM Humanitarian, and StormWater Pros demonstrate that collective action can achieve remarkable progress. If you are interested in learning more, visit their websites at stormwaterprosllc. com, waterforlifecharity.org, and roamhumanitarian.org. JANUARY 2025 // 83

S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y C O R N E R

BY RICHARD ELLIS

“Sustainability” Has Become Too Narrow WHAT WE TRY TO SUSTAIN IS RELATIVE TO OUR WAY OF LIFE

On the Wasatch Back, “sustainability” is usually a synonym for environmental stewardship. It’s about clean air, green energy, fresh water, and conservation—things that an overwhelming majority of Utahns say they support when surveyed. This use of sustainability is constraining, however. Sustainability is relative to a way of life, and not an absolute objective. Credit for the modern notion of “sustainability” goes to the United Nations Brundtland Commission, formed in 1983 and chaired by Gro Harlem Brundtland, former Prime Minister of Norway. Its task was “To propose long-term environmental strategies for achieving sustainable development to the year 2000.” The UN didn’t define “sustainable development,” so the Brundtland Commission did in its final report: “Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” The report stressed the needs of the poor—food, water, physical safety, and other essentials—but acknowledged that “needs” vary across time and place. The report also stated that “The satisfaction of human needs and aspirations [is] the major objective of

development.” Aspirations are far more varied than needs. That brings us home to the Wasatch Back, where development isn’t linear, and aspirations change. In Park City, silver mining sustained a way of life. When the industry collapsed, Park City lost its ability to meet the needs of the present, and the population declined from nearly 8,000 at the end of the 19th century to 1,150 people in 1951. Meanwhile, Heber City’s agricultural economy proved more stable and resilient. The ski industry replaced mining occupations with jobs in hospitality, transportation, recreation, construction, real estate, and more. The Wasatch Back began to attract affluent outdoor enthusiasts. In the 2010s, the rise of remote work detached the fulfillment of needs from location; people could work wherever while earning an income from organizations located far away. Growth created opportunities for local entrepreneurship. Thanks to these aspirations, Wasatch County’s population will grow from roughly 35,000 in 2020 to over 81,000 by 2060 according to the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah. Summit County, likewise, will grow from about 42,000 to 60,000 people. Given population growth, what does it mean to meet the needs of the present in the Wasatch Back without compromising the ability of future residents to meet their needs? Through that lens, an issue like housing is a matter of sustainability. We need more housing to accommodate growth, but more housing can entail more freshwater use, more emissions, more traffic, and more pressure on local ecosystems. A housing shortage is unsustainable, though, if it makes the area unaffordable for childcare workers, educators, emergency personnel, and others who meet critical needs.

GIRLS & BOYS AGES 6-18 To inquire about team openings for the 2024/25 competitive soccer season, contact Technical Director Eli Ulvi at eulvi@parkcitysoccer.org

Again, sustainability is relative to a lifestyle. Whether we work at a desk, on a ranch, or in a restaurant, we have needs and aspirations rooted in natural resources. The rancher who hopes to pass along her way of life to the next generation is not so different from the skier who wants to pass on the joy of shredding pow. What they want to sustain faces common challenges. A hotter climate, for example, threatens the cattle ranch and the powder.

PCSC Office: 6443 N Business Park Loop, Suite K, Park City, UT 84098 Scholarships are available/Becas disponsibles. For more information, contact sgillwald@parkcitysoccer.org Spanish language assistance available. Asistencia en español disponible. Para español contacto Juan Perez al 435.659.9387 ó jperez@parkcitysoccer.org

PARK CITY SOCCER CLUB

www.parkcitysoccer.org 84 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

Every way of life in the Wasatch Back is resource intensive, especially compared to the global average. If environmental stewardship was the only dimension of sustainability that mattered, then we’d return to being hunter gathers. No one sane wants that. We want to sustain the lifestyles we have and love. Sustainability is off-putting (and hypocritical) when framed as a set of correct and incorrect actions. In 2025, let’s shift the conversation to preserving what we need and aspire to have in the Wasatch Back, and what future generations will need. Sustainability must speak to different ways of life in Park City, Heber City, and beyond.

SCIENCE CORNER

BY RICHARD ELLIS • PHOTO COURTESY OF DR. LUKE JOHNSON

BILL NYE THE SCIENCE GUY NEEDS OUR HELP

He has been every science teacher’s backup lesson plan since the 1990s, and he wants Wasatch Back kids to save humanity from extinction On October 30, Bill Nye the Science Guy took the Eccles Center audience on a laughter-heavy tour of, well, everything. He traversed from Steve Martin and the Ford Pinto, to climate change and nuclear fusion, to space exploration and extraterrestrial life, to killer asteroids and other ways the world could end. Park City Performing Arts packed the theater. No one could have left unentertained. But what was Nye trying to accomplish?! The answer is in his origin story. Nye, born in 1955, was a little kid playing Crazy Eights on the porch when a bee stung his thigh. His mother brought out a bottle of ammonia with a skull-andcrossbones warning label. “And I was thinking, my mother's trying to kill me. I was a rambunctious punk boy. I can understand,” Nye told the Eccles. She put ammonia on the sting, and to Nye’s amazement, it neutralized the venom. He soon discovered how to make ammonia using his older brother’s chemistry kit, and he was hooked on science. The Apollo space missions were rocket fuel for Nye’s science obsession. The 1968 photo, “Earthrise,” taken by astronaut Bill Anders during the first lunar orbit, “changed the world,” said Nye. “It changed the way everybody perceived our place in space, being a living thing on this planet, in the icy blackness of space.” Today, when Silicon Valley startups claim they are “changing the world,” usually that’s a euphemism for making billions of dollars on smartphone apps that distract and divide people. Nye, however, is serious about this changing the world business. He got into it professionally thanks, in part, to comedian Steve Martin. In 1977, after graduating from Cornell University with a mechanical engineering degree, Nye worked for Boeing in Seattle. About a year later, Steve Martin released A Wild and Crazy Guy, his chart-topping standup album. It was so big that Warner Brothers Records sponsored a Steve Martin look-alike stand-up comedy competition across the country, and Nye won in Seattle. That win motivated Nye to write his own jokes, which he submitted to a new comedy TV show produced by NBC’s Seattle affiliate. One week, the show’s guest canceled late, and they needed to fill six minutes. They

asked Nye to “do some science stuff,” as he put it. Nye introduced some classic Science Guy bits, like chewing marshmallows roasted in liquid nitrogen so that steam fumed out of his nose. Nye became a regular on the show. Meanwhile, American engineering had hit a new low with the Ford Pinto, released in 1970. This car had a bad habit of exploding when rear ended. “But the notorious thing” about the Pinto, said Nye, “was the legal department at the Ford Motor Company did this analysis that it would be cheaper to pay the lawsuits of the people affected by this than to fix the car.” “So, I got worried about this,” said Nye, “and I wanted then to have my own show, and dare I say, change the world.” He got his show, Bill Nye the Science Guy, and gave everyone who worked with him a document called “The Rules of the Road,” inspired by Wile E. Coyote and Road Runner. No matter what shenanigans the Coyote tries, the Roadrunner always follows the road, and so would Bill Nye the Science Guy. After the title, the first words in the document were: “Objective: Change the world.” How? “Produce a TV show that gets kids and adults excited about science, so that the United States will again be the world leader in technology, innovation, and sound management of the environment.” What would that look like? “For example, when our audience is of age, we'd like them to produce the best transportation systems in the world, e.g. cars, electric cars, trains, and aircraft.” In other words, no more Ford Pintos. Generations of American children have since watched Bill Nye the Science Guy in middle school science classes, probably on days when Mr. or Mrs. so-and-so was too hungover to lecture about Newton’s Laws. Unknowingly, the kids became Nye’s accomplices in changing the world. That mission puts Nye’s evening at the Eccles into perspective. His superpower is to stoke wonder and curiosity—like the kind he experienced when ammonia cured his bee sting and when he first saw Earth from the Moon’s perspective. Nye spent about half the evening on awe-

inspiring science, and the other half on everything that could annihilate humanity. Why? To introduce young people to problems worth solving. Because someone needs to slow greenhouse gas emissions. Because someone needs to develop laserfiring spacecraft that can nudge a killer asteroid off a collision path with Earth. Because we need a plan for when the super volcano beneath Yellowstone National Park goes kaboom. Perhaps science isn’t just a way to understand the universe, but also a way to perpetuate humanity’s residency within it. Maybe to change the world, all we need to do is save it. JANUARY 2025 // 85

AROUND THE TOWN

BY MICHELLE DEININGER

OUT WITH THE OLD, IN(SPIRATION) WITH THE NEW! Does January feel like a blast of crisp mountain air, filling you with energy and resolve to rock the new year like a star? Or is it more of a bill-laden sugar hangover alongside a bunch of post-holiday cleaning and chores? For many, it’s a bit of both. New Year’s resolutions seem to have fallen out of favor. Some realize that unsuccessful resolutions land worse than no resolutions at all. Others consider resolutions the personal-improvement equivalent of a Hallmark holiday. Some of us are too busy to bother (even if becoming less busy would be an excellent resolution). So, let’s not go there. Out with resolutions, in with inspiration! Park City is an inspiring place, whether you’re watching pro athletes perform jaw-dropping workouts at Basin Rec, swapping backstories with newcomers over coffee at Hugo, or exploring a trail. Talented people here are doing impressive work benefitting the city and the world. Here are how a few of them are rolling into 2025. VIRGINIA SOLOMON

PAIGE GARRITY For those who want to ease into 2025, Paige Garrity has an appealing approach. January is her “slow down and take stock” month. She saves new beginning celebrations for spring, in line with the astrological calendar. “A lot of the noise during the new year can make us feel pressured to speed up,” she says. “The reality is most of us are trying to catch up from the holidays–especially when it comes to retail. I’m more in a state of review in January.” Paige cofounded Fulfilled Lifestyle Company, handling its creative and business direction. Opened in 2021 in Junction Commons (formerly Tanger Outlets) across from the taco truck, Fulfilled is a sustainability store for new and used items, with much of the space dedicated to refillable, reusable household and personal products made from clean, toxin-free ingredients.

The board chair of Summit County Pride is closely watching as the new year unfolds. They say LGBTQ+ people in Utah expect an uncertain legislative environment–and want to be ready. In December, Solomon met with local government and school leaders to discuss ways to be proactive on safety and belonging for all residents. Summit County Pride started in 2020 as a City Hall task force and spun off into an independent nonprofit last summer. Its mission is to collaborate with allies to sustain and amplify inclusivity in the Wasatch Back so that everyone feels a sense of belonging. Members range in age and include singles, couples, and families. “Our vision is that everyone feels valued here,” Solomon says. “We don’t know what’s happening yet, but we’ll pull together as communities do.”

Toward zero-waste goals, customers can bring in old containers to refill with laundry and dish soap, cleaning supplies, and other items. Fulfilled also stocks local artisans’ creations, and a thrift area has clothing, accessories, books, and housewares.

From a core group of several dozen members to a much broader email list and a community filled with allies, the group oversees year-round social gatherings, Pride month events, and a parent support- and celebration group for those with LGBTQ+ children.

The store hosts clothing swaps and other events, and has an online order-placing service after business houars. It’s the embodiment of reduce, reuse, and recycle–and refill.

Solomon emphasizes for those newer to town that Park City is a safe, welcoming, and supportive place.

Garrity and cofounder Kim Flores are passionate about zero waste, and aim to help people move manageably in that direction. “We help you shift your mindset through small steps you can maintain,” she says. “I would encourage individuals to focus on something small and simple.” That might be switching all bathroom products to refillables as household supplies run out. “Sustainability isn’t a product you pick up off the shelf,” Garrity says. “It’s a way of life.” 86 // NEIGHBORS OF Park City

“We never have to fight battles, we just have to make people aware of ways to support the community they weren’t aware of,” they say. “We’re not really having to change people’s minds in any grand sense.” Solomon keeps busy far beyond Summit Pride. They teach art history at the Honors College, and with their wife, Jenn, co-own and operate PC Yoga Collective in Kimball Junction. Oh, and last May, the couple welcomed Harper and River, possibly the cutest twins ever to smile for a camera. Solomon almost feels bad about how well they sleep and behave. Almost.

© Best Version Media SCOTT VAN HARTESVELT Longtime Parkite and founder of the digital marketing and design company GCommerce, Scott van Hartesvelt has started a new chapter in his life, and to call it “exciting” is an understatement. “This is a year of rebirth and growth for me; I’m as motivated as I've been in my adult life, I really am,” he says. “Part of that is turning a new chapter in my day job life.” Park City hired van Hartesvelt in 2024 to run Leadership Park City. The program identifies and trains leaders through yearlong, grouporiented classes. Modeled on programs around the country, as well as the Kellogg National Leadership Program, it features monthly workshops on current local and state topics taught by decisionmakers, along with projects and comparative civics studies. Since its inception, graduates have gone on to hold elected offices and other key positions in the city’s public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Van Hartesvelt succeeds Myles Rademan, who served 30 years as the program’s founder until his retirement. As a graduate of the 29th Leadership class, he knows the program well. And he says the timing of his taking the helm thrills him. This year is a time of change and opportunity in Park City, he says. “There are people in our community who have been leading for a long time. They’re turning over those roles to emerging leaders,” he continues. “There’s a whole sector of emerging leaders in our community. “This is a community big enough to have challenging opportunities that dynamic, smart people can sink their teeth into, and small enough that any one of those people can put their fingerprints on the future of the community. That’s rare.” As he shepherds the current Leadership class through the program that he says changed his own life, he also stays focused on “foundational” parts of his personal life–primarily physical exercise, eating well, and maintaining the holistic health and well-being he calls integral to his relationships with his wife and daughter. “I try to be intentional about that,” he says. “I’m not ever going to take it for granted, and certainly not in 2025.”

JOEL ZARROW Joel Zarrow is president and CEO of the Park City Community Foundation. For those newer to town, PCCF is an umbrella organization supporting nonprofits and initiatives by convening donors and leaders to contribute financial resources and develop ideas to meet local needs. Zarrow has long made a practice of picking a single word for the coming year on which to focus. Past selections include “inspire,” “empathy,” and “impatience.” For this year, he picked two words–one personal and one professional. His personal word is “wonder,” which he considers similar to curiosity but with “more enchantment.” His professional word, on the heels of PCCF’s just-completed five-year strategic plan, is “community.” “What do we mean when we talk about community? That’s a super relevant question for Park City–our community is changing and varied,” Zarrow says. “We have people who moved here after doing amazing things professionally, and they’ve earned enough money to come and enjoy all that Park City has. We also have people, oftentimes immigrants, who moved here to work and build a better life for their family. What does it mean to create community in such a socioeconomically diverse place?” PCCF defines creating community as helping all residents access what people value most: being able to afford living here; basic infrastructure like good education; healthy food; and participation in community activities, which in Park City includes skiing, biking, and outdoor sports. Toward its goal, PCCF is focusing on building blocks like early childcare and education–which benefits both the workforce and the economy–housing, after-school activities, and forward-looking priorities like reducing food waste. “Nonprofits are the conscience of the community,” he says. “They support the infrastructure we need to be a full community, not just a hollowed-out resort town.” Connecting with these Parkites makes the horizon brighter. Happy New Year!

JANUARY 2025 // 87

PET CORNER