Our office is open 7 days a week to help with all your Kayenta real estate needs!
Jeff Sproul, Principal Broker
Steve McAllister & Naomi Doyle, Sales Agents
435-628-7234 www.kayentahomes.com
Join us for the return of Festival of the Americas, an immersive three-day festival to celebrate indigenous and Native American art & culture.
Let the beats of mesmerizing performances echo in the air as talented artists bring the spirit of the Americas to life. Indulge your taste buds in a culinary adventure with a diverse array of delectable offerings from authentic food vendors.
This festival is more than an event; it’s an experience that invites you to connect with the heart and soul of native traditions. Join us for a harmonious blend of art, music, flavors, and traditions at the Festival of the Americas – where the spirit of the continent comes alive in every moment.
Dry Wash Area
Brief Update
Dry Wash: Natural Open Space vs.
Reuse Waste-Water Reservoir
As many of you are following the developments surrounding Dry Wash and the proposed reservoir, here is a brief update.
Meetings and discussion continue between Ivins City, Washington County Water Conservancy District (WCWCD), Kayenta Development, Terry Marten and the Dry Wash Study Group (concerned Ivins residents). Disappointingly, no new detail or information has been offered from Ivins City or WCWCD. The biggest development is their willingness to consider a smaller reservoir but how to achieve that is unknown at this time.
This week on May 2nd, the City Council will conduct a work meeting to discuss Dry Wash but little in-depth discussion is expected. The work session meeting is at 4:00 PM in the council chamber at the Ivins City Hall. At 5:30 the Dry Wash Study Group will present a workbook that has been assembled of their concerns and questions for the city council to address. It is unclear when or if the council will address concerns. The Workbook will become available online to anyone interested, once it has been presented to the city council.
Terry Marten and Kayenta Development Inc. (KDI) continue to be very concerned about the proposed reservoir as to its impact to the Kayenta Community and west portion of Ivins. Issues surrounding health, pollution, nuisances, safety, transportation access and visual impacts are some of the mounting concerns.
Terry has hosted several opportunities to hike Dry Wash so residents and council members of Ivins can learn more and visualize the location of the proposed reuse water reservoir.
Marten and KDI are continuing to offer the 100-acre Dry Wash site, to the city, for a Pristine Natural Park and Open Space. The intended plan that was developed thirty years ago. According to Marten, “The offer is still on the table if the reservoir is not built”.
Residents of Ivins are encouraged to attend city council work meetings and city council regular meetings. Follow the calendar: ivinsutah.gov
April Fools!
Thank you all for your good humor with our little April Fools joke!
Last month we introduced Hell Hole Manor to our readers only to have it picked up by Mark Eddington, a writer for the Salt Lake Tribune.
We got calls and text from near and far telling us how much they loved falling for the prank. We are glad everyone could take a moment to laugh and have an April Fools moment.
Special thanks to Hollie and Greg Ragland with RDI Creative, the folks that edit and design our Kayenta Connection every month. They created the fantastically farcical image of HHM that spurred the text by – yours truly (Matt Marten).
Will we be able to fool you again next year?
Job Opportunities
Bookkeeper,
General Office
Kayenta Community Services is seeking to fill a full-time bookkeeping position immediately.
Position:
- General bookkeeping for several entities
- Accounts Receivable & Accounts Payable
- Monthly reconciliation of accounts
- Deposits
- Payroll
- General Office and Phone
Contact:
We have new sculptures by local artists to celebrate Kayenta’s Desert Rose Labyrinth’s 20-year anniversary. Sally & Tim O’Neill donated their latest collaborative creation called “Stone People.”
In celebration of the 20-year anniversary of the Desert Rose Labyrinth (built by Kayenta volunteers in 2004) please join us for World Labyrinth Day
“Walk as One at 1” on Saturday, May 4th at 1:00.
The Desert Rose Labyrinth is a hidden gem in our community, funded and maintained by local residents.
“Every year on the first Saturday in May thousands of people around the globe participate in World Labyrinth Day as a moving meditation for world peace and celebration of the labyrinth experience. Many “Walk as One at 1” local time to create a rolling wave of peaceful energy passing from one time zone to the next.” worldlabyrinthday.org
Benefits of Spending Time in Nature and Walking a Labyrinth:
• restores your mental energy, improves focus & memory
• boosts creativity & allows you to think outside the box
• helps you feel more alive & vital
• reduces stress & improves mood
• lessens effects of PTSD & eases grief
• helps you find meaning & direction
• creates a sense of belonging & connection to nature
Physical Benefits of Walking a Labyrinth
Exercise, lowers blood pressure, improves sensory processing, coordination & balance, reduces anxiety & stress
Emotion Benefits of Walking a Labyrinth
Induces relaxation response in body/brain, soothing & restorative, helps lift depression & process emotions, stabilizes moods for less reactivity
Mental Benefits of Walking a Labyrinth
Increases concentration & mental clarity, helps you tune in to your body, stimulates imagination, intuition & creativity, aids in problem-solving, conflict resolution & grief processing, helps balance right & left brain which helps with age-related diseases
Spiritual Benefits of Walking a Labyrinth
Increases mindfulness, awareness, inner peace, meditative balance, intuition, self-reflection, inner listening, increases communication between mind, body & spirit for greater overall well-being
London Research studies showed that walking a labyrinth helped balance the right & left hemispheres of the brain.
Upcoming Events
DOCUTAH presents:
May 3
Tour of Honor
Arrive early for FIRST FRIDAYS!
Enjoy live music, food, and fun in the Kayenta Art Village beginning at 5:30pm.
The Center for the Arts at Kayenta is thrilled to partner with DOCUTAH on a new monthly film series. DOCUTAH seeks to open hearts and minds to the world through beautifully crafted stories on film, promoting education while creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and community.
About the Film: A group of 21 World War II, Korea, and Vietnam Veterans are flown back to Washington D.C to see their memorials in an immersive and emotional documentary.
Coyote Tales
May 10
COYOTE TALES True Stories Told Live
The Night’s Theme: GIFT
Coyote Tales are live, open-mic style storytelling events with amateur and experienced storytellers. Each event has a theme on which stories are to be based. The theme for this event is: “GIFT” Potential storytellers may address that theme in any way they choose. Prior to the event, storytellers craft their true, on-theme story, practice the telling (5 minutes or less), and work on eliminating excess detail to nail the perfect ending. When the doors open, potential storytellers put their name in the hat in hopes of being chosen to share their tale. If chosen, the storyteller takes the stage to delight the audience.
Downwind
May 11
A free film screening, followed by a panel discussion with Q&A
Hiroshima. Nagasaki. Mercury, Nevada? The latter was the site for the testing of 928 nuclear weapons on American soil from 1951 to 1992. The fallout is still lethally impacting Americans today. Martin Sheen narrates this harrowing exposé of the United States’ disregard for everyone living… DOWNWIND. One of this year’s original Oscar-qualifiers, DOWNWIND has won several awards on the festival circuit.
In the wake of Oppenheimer, DOWNWIND exposes the United States Government’s 928 nuclear detonations from 1951-1992 at the Nevada Test Site and the ongoing impact of radioactive fallout on countless communities — and the environment.
Soirée Musicale with Jason Bonham
May 25
Jazz, Rock and Movie Music
Soirée Musicale features top local musicians and guest professionals from across the Western region tackling some of the most advanced and inspiring instrumental music in the repertoire. Our Spring series is under the direction of Jason Bonham, esteemed musician and principle violist with Las Vegas Philharmonic.
For May’s concert, join us for a fun evening of instrumental music featuring pop, jazz, and movie music from the Beatles, Queen, Chick Corea, Batman and more!
Featuring: DeAnn Letournau (violin), Urs Rutishauser (violin), Jason Bonham (viola) and Andrew Smith (cello).
Voyager Lecture Series
May 28
The natural function of nicotine and other botanical tales of intrigue from Kayenta’s neighborhood
Presentation by Ian T. Baldwin, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology,
Jena Germany, and the DI Ranch, Motoqua, UT
Have you wondered why plants produce so many of the drugs that humans use and abuse (nicotine, cocaine, opium, THC, aspirin, etc.)?
These “why” questions have been addressed in studies that lack scientific rigor, being little more than modern versions of Rudyard Kipling’s “just-so-stories” (How leopards got their spots…). Thanks to the long-term patient funding of the Max Planck Society in Germany, Ian T. Baldwin and his students have developed a fire-chasing native tobacco plant, Nicotiana attenuata, which grows in Kayenta’s botanical ‘hood, into a model for the rigorous scientific study of these “drug-related why questions”.
Optional Social Hour With Like-Minded Friends, Light Snacks & Beverages at 6:30pm
For more information and tickets to the amazing events please visit our website.
We look for to seeing you at the Center for the Arts in Kayenta.
Kayenta Community
The local perspective. Our businesses and residents news and events.
Resident Spotlight
Janell Bassett, Editor
Lori and Dan Capshaw
Work better, play better
It was here, camping in Snow Canyon State Park while Lori prepared for a grueling Ironman competition in 2011, that Lori and Dan had first glimpsed the raw beauty of Kayenta. They were struck by the wide-open space and quietly vibrant community they had found in this hidden jewel.
Their story began years prior, on a race weekend in Bend, Oregon. Lori, a triathlete, locked eyes with Dan, a serious duathlete “and a kind-faced competitor,” across the finish line. They soon discovered they both called Mill Valley, California, home. Not long after, they bought a tiny 100-year-old cottage there. Life in “The Duck Shack,” their creaky but charming cottage nestled against Mount Tamalpais, was a whirlwind of shared sunrises over mountain peaks and laughter echoing through redwood forests.
Dan, a former Navy nuclear submarine officer and chemical engineer turned management consultant, brought a calm steadiness to Lori’s energy. Lori, who managed events, conferences and recruiting for corporate tax/accounting firms, put her commitment to fitness into running marathons to counteract too many hours being seated indoors. She, in turn, rekindled Dan’s love for outdoor adventures, a passion dormant during his busy life on the road as a consultant, specializing in shift-work operations, helping companies evaluate, design, and implement improved shift schedules and work systems, with a focus on change management.
Years flowed by, filled with weekend adventures and quiet evenings by the fireplace. But as the tech boom swelled around Mill Valley, their haven began to feel cramped. It was Lori, remembering the beauty of Kayenta, who first suggested the move. Dan, nearing retirement and with a shared yearning for wide-open spaces, readily agreed. Though they planned to build, they fell in love with an existing home and moved to Kayenta in 2018.
Kayenta embraced them with open arms. Lori, a natural connector, thrives. She hikes with a group of women who have become her dearest friends, volunteers for Friends of Snow Canyon State Park and Windhorse Wisdom at the Kayenta Korrals, and gardens in the Kayenta Community Garden. She also enjoys connecting with friends and building community through workouts at Elevate Fitness Center. And, she has even started taking art classes, a long-dormant dream. Dan, ever the tinkerer, found a home at MakeSpace, too, where he surprised everyone by building a magnificent etching press, a testament to his engineering background and newfound artistic spirit.
Their evenings are filled with shared stories around the dinner table, with Maddie, their impish rat terrier puppy at their feet. Weekends are spent exploring hidden canyons and cycling through Snow Canyon State Park. Though they aren’t young athletes anymore, their love for adventure, for each other, and for the vibrant tapestry of their new home, burns brighter than ever. As Lori says, “Finding Dan was like finding a missing puzzle piece. And finding Kayenta? That was pure kismet.”
Editors note. If you know someone that you think should be featured in our monthly Kayenta Connection under our NEW “Resident Spotlight” section please email the Kayenta Connection at kayentaconnection@rdicreative.com. Our intent is to focus on the incredible people living in our community– be they seasoned residents or new recruits.
April 2024 Ivins City Council Update
Mike Scott, Council Member
Police, Fire, EMS
Mayor Hart held a Public Safety Talkabout on Wednesday, April 24th. Our Police and Fire Chiefs gave an overview of where we are now with public safety and what they plan next to not only maintain but improve the level of service.
About 50 residents participated, either in person or by Zoom, in almost 90 minutes of Q&A. They expressed gratitude for the quality of public safety, but also a lot of concerns. I took notes about the concerns raised. But right now, I want to focus on two very positive messages from the Talkabout.
Police Chief Flowers told us that total call volume has increased over the past five years. I looked at the department’s call data. He’s right. Calls have increased close to 7% a year since 2019. That’s logical. Our population has increased too.
But here’s the good news. Crimes against people and crimes against property have not increased over the past five years. Is that because we’re all just such wonderful people and Ivins only attracts wonderful people? Of course. Or is it because our Police Department does a great job and makes its presence felt in the community? Of course.
Fire Chief Parker reported that in the two years since he came on board, the Fire Department has changed from a full-time staff of six firefighters and EMS personnel to fifteen, plus Fire Chief Parker and Division Chief Fulde.
That change, plus a lot of other changes, has resulted in Ivins and Santa Clara reaching an ISO rating of 4. Only 14% of fire departments nationwide have an ISO rating better than 4. A fire department’s ISO rating is a measure of how well a fire department can serve the community. The official name for this rating is the Public Protection Classification or PPC. The lower the rating, the better.
That’s a big change from a couple of years ago. Not only that, but he’s also shooting for an ISO rating of 3. Only 5% of fire departments do better than that.
“Ivins Inspired” Launching June 1st
Here are excerpts from information Ivins resident Tiffany Wynn sent me about an exciting new project, “Ivins Inspired.” It is designed for Ivins but was inspired by the “Carmel Cares” volunteer organization (https://www.carmelcares.org/).
“Ivins Inspired” is a volunteer program designed to empower Ivins residents to lend a helping hand and leave a lasting impact on our spectacular city. Officially launching on June 1st, it is an opportunity to come together as a community to create meaningful change. Whether you’re passionate about beautifying our parks, supporting local initiatives, mentoring our youth, or any other way you would like, there’s a place for you in Ivins Inspired.
To kick start our journey on a high note, we will have prizes, made possible by the generous contributions of our local businesses. If you complete the volunteer form and liability form within the first two weeks of the program launch (in June) you will be entered to win a combination of prizes.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our business community champions who have enthusiastically rallied behind “Ivins Inspired,” recognizing the importance of giving back and showing appreciation for those who selflessly dedicate their time to make Ivins a better place for all. June’s Ivins City Newsletter will have more details.
Here is a sneak peek at some of the great prizes available: Xetava Gardens Cafe: $100 in gift cards; Juniper Sky Fine Arts Gallery: Pair of earrings; Gallery 873: Houston Llew Spiritile; Datura Gallery: Pottery; Good Medicine Beauty Lab: Rain Maker Hydration Set; Mystic Canyon Light Gallery: Three photographs of Utah landscapes; Make Space Kayenta: One free class, a Make Space apron, and notebook; INKAS No Kill Animal Supporters: Notecards by local artist; Rampage Bike Rental and Repair: Two free two hour bike rentals; Feel Love Coffee Snow Canyon: $25 gift card; Zia Pottery Studio, Hutch Studio, Orange Peel, and Red Mountain Resort, and more to come.
Please contact Volunteer Coordinator Tiffany Wynn at ivinsinspired@gmail.com for more information.
How To Beat The Incomprehensible Web of Bureaucracy
Sometimes people get upset on social media about the wrong things. Yes, believe it or not, that’s true. Like when the City approves a “preliminary plan” or a “final plat” for a development. Comments boil down to something like this, “Why would those idiots approve this when we are already overwhelmed with growth, traffic, water issues, and more?”
Here’s why. Property owners are allowed to build whatever Ivins City Code says they can build for the zone they are in. If they “follow the rules” (City Code) they can build.
They don’t need permission from the City Council, Planning Commission, or the public. They do need to submit their preliminary plan to the City’s Technical Review Committee and Planning Commission to verify the plan follows Code. But as long as it does, it must be approved. Same for the final plat. If it matches the approved preliminary plan and meets Code, it must be approved.
I worry that when we get upset about the wrong things, we conclude that the City Council doesn’t listen. That leads to a why bother any more attitude. Then we don’t speak up on issues we can impact, thinking “what’s the point.” What a loss.
There are a lot of situations where the public has the right to speak up and the City Council has the right to decide if something can happen, or under what conditions it will be allowed. These include land use changes, zoning changes, code changes, conditional uses, and changes to development agreements.
For example, I can build an art studio in the Neighborhood Commercial zone and don’t need City Council approval to do it or a public hearing. But if I want to build a restaurant, it would be a conditional use. That means the City Council can impose reasonable conditions to mitigate negative impacts. And there would be a public hearing so residents can explain what negative impacts they are concerned about and offer suggestions for mitigating those impacts.
Here’s something that just happened. The developer of the Hidden Springs RV Resort on Hwy 91 asked for permission to lower their boundary wall along the highway. City Code requires it to be 6 feet high, so the code would have to be changed to allow a lower wall. The Planning Commission held a public hearing and made a recommendation to the City Council. Then the City Council held a public hearing and decided against making a change.
And one more. At an upcoming City Council meeting we will have a public hearing to decide whether to change a development agreement’s parking requirement for the student housing development next to Rocky Vista University. What will residents say? What will the City Council do?
The bottom line: Save your energy for the things you might be able to change. Make your voice matter where it matters.
More City Information
I try to keep these articles relatively concise. Not doing too well at that. It’s frustrating because there’s so much to discuss. So, please email me at Mike@MikeScott4Ivins.com for more information about these and other Ivins issues. Also, please tell me what issues in Ivins matter to you. Visit my website at www.MikeScott4Ivins.com for regular updates and now you can also add your comments to my articles.
Located in beautiful Kayenta.
MakeSpace Art School is focused on visual art that inspires creativity and builds community. We are here for every kind of artist from the absolute beginner to the experienced professional artist – and for the other creative dabblers who fit somewhere in between.
New and exciting art workshops await at MakeSpace. A few examples are noted below but other classes are available. Go to our website to get a complete listing and to enroll.
Gelli Printed Collages
May 10 and 11
Time: 10 am – 1:00 pm
Instructor: Denise Vance
Join us for two, fun-filled days of exploratory, intuitive, art making as we create prints with Gelli plates! In this unique workshop we will play with the applications of thin acrylic layers onto Gelli plates to make unpredictable and beautiful, textured papers of our own creation into collaged compositions. No prior experience needed, and all supplies are included!
Dipping Your Toe into Figurative Sculpture
May 16, 17 and 18
Time: 16: 1 – 3 pm, 17 & 18: 10 am – 4 pm
Instructor: Heather Rison
Learn the basics of figure sculpting with SLC based artist, Heather Rison! You will learn the art of observation, body rhythms, proportion, and basic forms in the round. Learn how to build your own armature properly and apply clay with purpose, strategy, and intuition. Students will be introduced to different clay mediums, tools, and techniques. This class is structured as a foundational class for beginners who have an interest in sculpting in any medium.
One-Day Oil Painting Workshop: Birds of a Feather
June 6
Time: 10 am – 2 pm
Instructor: Angela Woods
Painting our feathered friends, from hummingbirds to roosters, requires specific techniques. In this one-day workshop, local artist Angela Woods will share her methods for successfully painting birds including shape, color, and feather techniques. A mixture of demonstration and one-on-one student instruction will increase confidence in this vast and varied subject matter. Additional topics covered include drawing, composition, layout, color mixing, and more.
MakeSpace Open Studio
Friday May 3, 5:30 – 7:00 pm
A First Friday Event
Get a behind-the-scenes look at this hub of creativity.
Your Community. Your Classes. Your Space.
View the full schedule online.
Information & Class Registration
And, while you are there, register your email to receive monthly updates on classes.
MAKESPACE | 918 ART VILLAGE WAY | IVINS, UTAH 84738
Please join us May 10th to hear true stories told live the Coyote Tales way!
Storytelling – in all its forms – is a powerful bond that connects and unites us as individuals and communities. Coyote Tales events are community-focused storytelling celebrations that not only entertain, but strive to foster deeper empathy, compassion and understanding the listener. On May 10th Coyote Tales is pleased to join The Center for the Arts at Kayenta in inviting you to enjoy a unique evening of true tales told live on stage.
We are pleased to announce that Utah Poet Laureate and author Lisa Bicknell will be sharing her story with us. Lisa is the author of three books of poems, Haste, flickerand Elixir. She will be joined on stage by Native American activist, educator and former Chairman of the Tribes of Utah and The Confederated Tribe of the Goshute, Virgil Johnson, and rancher, storyteller and patriarch of Utah’s first family of rodeo, Mr. Bill Wright. Who knows, some of your Kayenta friends and neighbors may also toss their name in the hat in the hope of getting on stage! Don’t miss hearing their takes on the evening’s theme, “GIFT”.
Join the Party. The night begins with a pre-show party – open to all ticket holders – hosted by Petite Feast and Kayenta Homes and Properties where guests can socialize and nosh on upscale finger foods like, Lonestar fondue, whole wheat crostini with carrot ginger marmalade, green chili cheddar bites, salted caramel brownies and other tasty snacks. Stillhouse Road Bluegrass will even be on hand to add just the right amount of cowboy charm to the party.
Event Details
Date: Friday, May 10th at The Center for the Arts at Kayenta
Pre-show party 6:30 pm (event ticket required for admission)
Storytelling: 7:30 pm
Coyote Tales events are funded by Petite Feast, Utah Humanities, Utah Division of Arts and Museums and Kayenta Homes and Properties
We are grateful for the in-kind support of Desert Dweller Realty, SBDance and The INN at Santa Clara
All proceeds from live Coyote Tales events have benefited local non-profits or have been FREE.
Petite Feast Dinner Club
JUNE – CELEBRATION DINNER
SUNDAY, JUNE 9, 2024
Summer is finally here! June marks the beginning of summer squash and vegetable season and this month’s menu hopes to showcase some of our local gardener’s best offerings. Deep green and vibrant yellow squash are available in abundance. While they’re often served sliced and cooked, this menu features a unique carpaccio salad of garden-fresh zucchini thinly sliced and served with housemade cheese and a bright and zesty basil mint vinaigrette. The homage to summer continues with homegrown piccolo tomatoes and grilled Utah corn showcasing summer’s bounty as a flavorful bed for a succulent pan seared chicken breast. The celebratory meal even starts off with summery bang by opening with an interesting take on vinegary salt roasted new potatoes served with a smoky paprika-spiced aioli. They’re the perfect accompaniment to serve alongside our take on a spiked lemon cooler. Cheers!
JUNE DINNER
SUNDAY, JUNE 9, 2024
MENU
HORS D’OEUVRE
GARLIC ROASTED NEW POTATOES WITH PAPRIKA AIOLI
PETITE CRUDITÉ PLATTER WITH LEMON HERB DIP
LEMON CITRUS COOLER
FIRST COURSE
ZUCCHINI CARPACCIO SALAD WITH HOUSEMADE RICOTTA, BASIL MINT VINAIGRETTE
AND A LIGHT SABA DRIZZLE
SECOND COURSE
HOUSEMADE PASTA ALLA SORRENTINA
ENTREE
PAN SEARED CHICKEN BREAST SERVED OVER CORN, TOMATO AND BROAD BEAN SALAD
DESSERT
STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE WITH FRESH BERRIES, BERRY SORBET AND GOAT MILK GELATO
To reserve your seat at the table please click on the link below
Petite Feast Dinner Club
DINNER LOCATION: PRIVATE HOME IN KAYENTA, UTAH
**The exact address and driving directions will be emailed 1 week prior to the event.
About Petite Feast Dinner Club: after 35 years as a restaurateur, caterer, chef and Food and Wine best new chef nominee, Victoria Topham is opening her kitchen to share her unique culinary skills and healthy cooking style with guests just like you. PF Dinner Club offers guests the opportunity to socialize with new friends around a shared table while enjoying deliciously upscale meals. Monthly dinners will feature an hors d’oeuvre hour followed by a multi course dinner where mingling with the chef in the kitchen is encouraged. ** Think – mash-up of a restaurant, dinner party and cooking class. And, she always has a few unplanned courses and surprises for her guests! Events are announced monthly through the website and pricing for each event varies. Victoria is happy to accommodate your special celebration requests and dietary preferences whenever possible. I hope to see you soon.
“Each course was complex with wonderful combinations and taste delights. Everything was delicious.” – Dianne Banks
“We had a fabulous time as always. We loved all the food and beverage offerings and are already looking forward to April’s dinner! Thanks for making this wonderful dinner club available and for all the hard work that you and your team do.” – Debbie C.
VIRTUAL DINNER PARTY #94
SPRING VEGETABLE PANZANELLA WITH POACHED EGG
Spring has finally arrived in all its joyful splendor. But here in southern Utah spring can morph into summer in an instant. One day temperatures are in the pleasant 70’s and the next we’re suffering through sweltering upper 90’s. So, in this very short window of perfect weather let’s celebrate all the cool shades of spring green loud and proud. Our recipe this month is a verdant riff on a classic panzanella salad that shines with spring’s finest vegetable offerings. Hand torn croutons add a delicious crunch and flavorfully punctuate the vegetable components. And as a nod to spring’s rebirth, I’ve added a poached egg on top. The rich yolk pairs perfectly with the vinaigrette’s bracing acidity making this dish a perfect brunch, lunch or light dinner meal.
There are many ways to prepare the bread for panzanella. Classic recipes call for soaking stale bread in water and then squeezing the water out before proceeding with the recipe. But I prefer to make irregular croutons by tearing the bread into rough pieces, tossing them in a garlic oil, and then toasting them in a hot oven. Doing so produces tasty bits full of crags and rough edges that soak up the potent lemon Dijon vinaigrette.
In panzanella it’s the balance of tender vegetables and crisp/chewy-ish croutons combined with a bright and tangy vinaigrette that make the dish. But in this version, the vegetables and herbs shine. I’ve used zucchini, peas, green beans, and lots of mint and dill, but asparagus, snap peas and tarragon would also taste great. The only rule is, try to keep the ratio of vegetables to bread the same – if it’s too bread centered, the salad can become heavy and dry. The final detail is to let the salad rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Tim felt this month’s recipe was a bit of a challenge. In choosing a wine he focused on the vinegar, mustard and dill or the acidity, spice and bitterness of the dish. He suggested that the acidity in the dish should increase the fruitiness of the wine and decrease the perception of the wine’s acidity, therefore it helps bring a wine with high acidity into balance. Because of that, he recommends a light white wine with high acidity such as a Sauvignon Blanc. The spice and bitterness in the dish indicates that a white wine or low-tannin red such as Pinot Noir work work, but definitely avoid bold, highly tannic red wines.
If you have not joined the Virtual Dinner Party but would like to dine with us, please prepare this recipe – or any other – and share it with your family, friends and neighbors. It is our group’s firm belief that by preparing something good to eat and sharing it with those we love, we are participating in one of life’s greatest joys. The connection, community and good will that come from it fill us with joy, hope and gratitude. I hope you all enjoy it as much as I do.
Thanks for coming to the party. Cook On! – Victoria
VIRTUAL DINNER PARTY #94
SPRING VEGETABLE PANZANELLA
WITH POACHED EGG
INGREDIENTS:
3 thick slices of day-old rustic-style bread
3/4 C olive oil, divided
2 T minced garlic,
1 C fresh lima beans (thawed, frozen may be substituted)
1 C fresh English peas (thawed, frozen may be substituted)
1 C green beans
1 small zucchini, cut into 1/4″ half moon pieces
1 T Dijon mustard
¼ C sherry vinegar
zest of 1/2 lemon
¼ C red onion, thinly sliced
½ C fresh mint, torn into bite sized pieces
½ C fresh dill, torn into bite sized pieces
optional poached eggs (watch how to video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XKXmzZd_rHg)
METHOD:
Bring a pot of water to boil and blanch all vegetables in batches until tender crisp. Transfer to an ice water bath to stop cooking and keep color bright. Drain on paper toweling and set aside.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Tear bread into rough 1” pieces and place on a parchment lined rimmed baking sheet. Set aside while you prepare garlic oil.
Heat ¼ C olive oil in a sauté pan over medium high heat. Add garlic and reduce heat to low. Swirl garlic in pan until fragrant but take care not to brown garlic or it will become bitter. Pour garlic oil over bread and toss well to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Spread out on baking tray and bake until lightly golden (about 10 minutes), flipping halfway through. Set aside.
Whisk together mustard, sherry vinegar and remaining ½ C of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
In a large bowl lightly toss all salad ingredients with the vinaigrette and let sit for 5-10 minutes to infuse vegetables and bread with the dressing’s flavors. Portion salad and top with a poached egg and additional fresh herbs if desired.
Serves 2 with leftovers
435.656.0165
Xetava Cafe and Tapas+Bar is locally owned, and unlike anywhere you’ve ever been. Designed to be a respite from the bustle of modern life, the building is nestled under the giant red cliffs of Ivins, surrounded by the Kayenta Art Village and Center for the Arts. Allow yourself to be mesmerized by the views while you choose between our new Tapas+Bar area or the original Cafe.
Hours of Operation
Monday
CAFE 11-5 • TAPAS+BAR 4-8
Tuesday/Wednesday
CLOSED
Thursday/Friday
CAFE 11-8 • TAPAS+BAR 4-9
Saturday
CAFE 9-8 (brunch ‘til Noon) • TAPAS+BAR 4-9
Sunday
CAFE 9-8 (brunch ‘til Noon) • TAPAS+BAR 4-8
Health, Fitness & Wellness
Kayenta’s locally run gyms, fitness classes, spas, group workouts, wellness activities, and mindful experiences.
“I don’t diet and exercise. I eat and train.”
– J.R. Rim.
Elevate Fitness
Current Class Offerings
ElevateFit / ElevateFITFusion
9:30 am, Mon, Wed, Fri
Elevate Yoga
9:30 am Thur, 10 am Sat
Elevate Studio • 435-632-1381
jyfitness@me.com
Class size is limited and subject to change.
Pre-registration is required. Contact John before attending your first class.
Be happy. Be healthy. Have a blast!
ELEVATE!
Kayenta Home Yoga
Winter’s cooler weather is an invitation to slow down and reconnect with the structure of scheduled classes.
We will pick up where we left off: Noticing the breath, paying attention to the body, and focusing the mind.
Class Schedule
9:30 – 10:45 Tuesday: Vigorous Vinyasa
9:30 – 10:45 Wednesday: Relaxing Yin/Stretch
9:30 – 10:45 Thursday: Vigorous Vinyasa
Please contact me for more information.
Pre-registration is required.
Karen Kushner (E-RYT 500)
978-621-0499
Find Your Joy Yoga
Find Your Joy Yoga
Tuesdays at 9:30 am
At John Yohmans’s Elevate Fitness Studio in Kayenta!
Classes are $15 • Punch cards are available for $75 (5 classes)
No sign-up is required!
Sacred Healing Classes are offered one Saturday morning/month.
2 Hour Classes include:
Sacred Tea Ceremony
Meditation • Yoga
Email me for a list of upcoming classes and dates.
Call/text: 435-862-7743
Sacred Space Spa
Body, Skin, and Energy Work
Ask about our add-ons to enhance your treatment!
Please call or text to schedule or with any questions! Please remember that I am usually booked at least 2 weeks out.
Namaste, Aly Hansen
Aly is now a certified Insominia Coach.
Sacred Sleep CoachFor a full list of Spa Treatments visit:
Tel: 435-862-7743
Email MeJavier’s Massage
Javier Guzman LMT/LMMT
Massage is medicine for the body and mind
Hi, I’m Javier Guzman a licensed massage therapist who resides in the beautiful community of Kayenta. My handcrafted massages are designed for you whether you want relaxation, deep therapeutic, stress reducing, pain relieving, or just to improve overall health & well-being. Don’t delay your journey to a healthier you!
“I think he is a neighborhood treasure. He has a very nice casita where he works. I love his massage and he is a really nice, thoughtful, considerate, good guy.” ~ Christy Lueders
Call or text for an appointment:
Javier Guzman
206-271-6165
Kayenta Pickleball Group (KPG)
Does Pickleball Pique Your Interest?
If you have an interest in joining or have played very little to even not at all and would like to try it prior to paying dues, contact Denton Zubke by email at dbzubke@gmail.com or by phone or text at 701-570-4043. It’s a great way to meet other Kayenta residents and enjoy some fun and get some great exercise.
We’re planning on more organized events such as clinics, beginner classes, and round robins in 2023. Join us in learning to play. It’s fun the first day, infectious, and great for fitness. Please email Denton Zubke or Erin at the Kayenta office for more information.
Email DentonDesert Rose Labyrinth
The labyrinth is sacred ground, a place of rest and renewal.
The Desert Rose Labyrinth & Sculpture Garden is a community resource with the intention that all who walk the labyrinth will be blessed with peace, comfort, and open hearts. The Labyrinth is maintained and funded by Kayenta volunteers. Please be respectful and leave only footprints. For more information or to make group reservations, please contact:
Cheryl Collins
Email Cheryl
Beth Hopwood
Email Beth
Desert Rose Labyrinth
792 Kayenta Pkwy, Ivins UT
Trips and Trails
Kayenta Exploration Group
Monday, May 2oth, 2024
We will be going to the Upper and Lower Sand Cove Reservoirs above the town of Gunlock. Half-day trip. Bring lunch so we can have a picnic in Gunlock City Park. 5 miles of dirt road. Meet at the Kayenta Design Center at 10 am Monday, May 20th, 2024.
For details contact Charles Dillier at 435-656-1956
Community Advocates
Are you a Kayenta resident? Do you have a cause or passion that you are personally involved with in the St. George area?
If so, let your neighbors know right here.
DPI – Desert Preservation Initiative
Advocate: Chuck Warren
Meet “Chip”—A tool for improved efficiency and effectiveness
The task of removing the Tamarisk infestation in Kayenta washes is time and effort consuming, yet imperative. Happily, as the members and volunteers with the Desert Preservation Initiative have learned more about the work needed, the introduction of a chipper into DPI’s field processes has immediately improved the efficiency of the work and the effectiveness of the outcomes.
Chipping smaller branches onsite reduces the time and effort needed to haul debris out of the washes and transfer it to the DPI corral for disposal, often at a later date. But equally if not more important are the environmental and aesthetic improvements to the sites where Tamarisk is removed.
Simply put, using the chipper “will allow us to harvest the nutrients that Tamarisk has taken from the wash,” says DPI botanist Terrence Walters. “The resulting mulch will support mother nature as it reclaims these nutrients over time as the mulch degrades.” In addition, chips will decompose much faster than cut limbs, and therefore provide nutrient enrichment to the soil more quickly, thereby enriching the soil for native plants. Chips could also be used for mulch around native plants when restoration of sites moves into replanting.
Aesthetically, “chipping produces a very different product, reducing the volume of debris and visual impact of removal on the site,” says DPI President Chuck Warren. This result will provide an immediate payoff to homeowners on whose property Tamarisk has been removed.
Using this new tool has required a new round of training, addressing hearing, eye and breathing protection as well as learning how to handle the chipper safely to avoid fire or burn hazards. “Hearing protection is paramount,” reports volunteer Scott Florence, who has participated in both the training and use of the chipper. To that end, DPI will arrange to provide both earmuffs and face masks as needed. In addition, volunteers are learning about maintaining the equipment, including fuel and oil needs, greasing and the sharpening of knives.
The purchase of the $2000 machine was facilitated by donations from community members who recognized the need and the potential benefits of using this portable chipper. “Before the chipper we either broke branches by hand, or by large pruners, reciprocating saws or carried them out to a trailer for transport to the corral for burning,” says Warren. “I am so pleased that DPI volunteers have stepped up to address the daunting and imposing burden of removing the enormous fire risk of Tamarisk infestations at our doorstep. Our growing family of volunteers understand firsthand what this means.” And “Chip” is making a big difference in moving toward that goal.
If you would like to donate in support of DPI’s work, checks may be sent to DPI Treasurer Carole Richard at 1153 N. Tuweap Dr., Ivins, UT 84738 or delivered to any board member. Donations to the Desert Preservation Initiative, a 501(c)3, will be recognized by mail for the donor’s tax purposes.
Won’t you join us? If you are interested in learning more, volunteering, or having a review of invasive plants on your property, please contact Chuck Warren, president, (chuckwarren222@ gmail.com) or Dan Beck, volunteer coordinator (danbeck2@me.com).
Habitat for Humanity of Southwest Humanity
Advocate: Patrick Barickman
To learn more about our projects and mission please visit our website.
Habitat for Humanity of Southwest Utah
835 South Bluff Street, St. George, UT. 84770
INKAS – Ivins No Kill Animal Supporters
Advocate: Lois Hewitt
Ivins No-Kill Animal Supporters (INKAS) is a 501(c)3 organization and a Registered Utah Charity. It was founded in 2010 with the mission of providing support to Ivins Animal Shelter and Adoption Center, now the Santa Clara-Ivins Animal Shelter. In 2006 our shelter became the first no-kill municipal shelter in the state of Utah. Maintaining a no-kill shelter, as opposed to one that euthanizes animals after a set period of time, is more costly because the animal’s needs must be met at the shelter until they are reclaimed by their owners, adopted, or transferred to an animal rescue organization. Through a memorandum of understanding with Ivins City, INKAS provides support through veterinary care, specialty foods, and other needed supplies. Funds are raised through the sale of merchandise at various local events and through the donations of many generous animal lovers. You can help by designating INKAS as your charity on Amazon Smile or by donating on our website.
Santa Clara-Ivins Animal Shelter
Bailee Mabe, Shelter Manager
474 North 200 West, Ivins
435-628-1049
Hours by appointment:
Monday – Saturday, 8am – 3 pm
Ivins Night Sky Initiative
Advocate: Kai Reed
Ivins Night Sky launched on January 8th, 2019. We are a 100% volunteer, not-for-profit, citizen organization. We registered as a Utah nonprofit corporation in February 2019 and received 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status from the IRS in March.
Our mission is to improve, preserve, and protect the night sky over Ivins and our heritage of dark skies through environmentally responsible outdoor lighting, and to serve as a resource for City officials, residents, and businesses.
Let us know if this Initiative is important to you, if you are willing to get involved, and what else you think we should be doing to improve, preserve, and protect the night skies in Ivins.
Email Ivins Night Sky
Friends of Snow Canyon State Park
Advocates: Lori Capshaw
Events
EventsWe’d like to invite all Kayenta residents to join us in supporting Snow Canyon State Park. Our mission is to provide support to Snow Canyon State Park through various means. For more information and to join Friends please visit our website.
Nextdoor Kayenta
Advocate: Ray Borg
Nextdoor is a completely private online website environment for all of the Kayenta Nextdoor neighborhoods. Special thanks to Ray Borg for being our fearless leader.
Community and City Resources
Resident support services, businesses, and education and enrichment programs
Located in the desert community of Kayenta Utah, the Crescent Moon Inn is the perfect place to get away from it all. The Inn is just a short walk or bike ride from the Kayenta Art Village, where locally-owned art galleries, the Sacred Space Day Spa and the Xetava Garden Cafe add to your unique experience.
For Reservations or Pricing call:
435-879-9076
Looking for a Hair Artist right here in Kayenta?….JENN Hair Artist embodies the artistic creativity and passion of the beauty industry. She thrives in creating natural, sexy cuts and color styles for men and women. She looks forward to pampering you.
924A Art Village Way, Ivins, UT 83455
801 637-0884 (call or text)
Happy2Help is an in-home personal concierge service.
Services Include:
• Personal Shopping
• Health Recovery Assistance
• Meal Prep
• Snowbird Service
• Home Organization
• Event Assistance
Call or email Andrea, your trustworthy neighbor at
401-258-9772
Good Medicine Intuitive Skin Care
Good Medicine Beauty Lab is a small women-owned company, that creates high-quality face and skincare products. The products are all hand-crafted in our Kayenta lab, from ethically sourced ingredients and wild desert botanicals.
• Unique face and body care products.
• Safe, natural, and locally sourced wild botanical ingredients
Stop by and test all our products, we will be open every day from 9-5!
Kayenta Art Village: 873 Coyote Gulch Ct. Suite C, walk towards the Center for the Arts & look for the bright purple door.
435-656-5240
Is your Home dated, and in desperate need of a complete makeover? I can completely update the look and feel of your home without costly remodeling. I can help with affordable solutions that will transform your space. You will have a home that is organized, more current, and looks beautiful.
Are you building a New Home and need the finishing Touches? I can help with all the decorative touches, from home furnishings to tile, paint & more!
Happy Up Your Home with Home Stylist Nancy Weezy Forman, Kayenta Resident
215.8050035 WEEZY@NANCYWEEZYFORMAN.COM
Happy Up Your HomeKayenta Committees
Board opportunities, landscaping, and ACC & HOA contact information.
Kayenta Desert Arboretum
Thanks to all who visited and supported our Annual April plant sale.
All of the proceeds of this sale are invested in the maintenance and improvement of the Arboretum. During the last days of April, our desert plants began to display their colors and May is the month when the arboretum will be in full bloom. Browse through the arboretum each week as the variety of desert plants each display their vibrant colors.
As always, we thank the many volunteers who donate their time maintaining and improving the arboretum each year. If you would like to join us and become part of the team, please contact Roger Head, at (435) 632-1814 or rbhkayenta@gmail.com.
Kayenta Landscaping Committee
If you love plants and gardening….
A phenomenal new resource is now available to guide you in creating your Kayenta landscaping, available on the Kayenta HOA website.
The Kayenta ACC Landscaping Committee has just released a new guide to plants currently suggested for use, listing plant characteristics such as typical height and width, growth rate and—perhaps most useful—whether the species is available at local nurseries.
There are links attached to each of the plant IDs and names which lead to images of the plants and in-depth information available online.
In addition, the guide specifies in what areas plants can be used, such as the natural area, the transitional area or in a courtyard. A “Notes” section includes other advice and things to know about a given plant.
This user-friendly Guide to Kayenta Plants is located in the ACC’s Landscaping Documents.
ACC & HOA Information
The Kayenta ACC meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month, 2:00 pm in the Kayenta Community Room. A hard copy of the agenda is posted in the Kayenta Homes & Properties office the Thursday before the meeting.
Questions? Ellen Nathan
Phone: 435-652-8333
Email EllenShonto Point HOA Meetings
The Shonto HOA Board meets regularly during the year avoiding some summer months. All meetings are from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM on the third Wednesday of the month in the Theatre for the Arts, located in the Kayenta Art Village.
Taviawk 2023 HOA Board Meetings
The Board plans to meet on the Thursday after the ACC meeting (which is the 3rd Tuesday of each month) bi-monthly at 9:30 am at F1 Property Management.
The Kayenta Concept
The Kayenta Concept is a philosophy that has steered the development of our exceptional community since its inception. The standards that underlie that concept are enforced by the Architectural Control Committee (ACC), which serves both the Shonto Point and Taviawk HOAs. The pre-amble to the 2021 ACC Handbook lays out the basics of the architectural rules that have been followed to create the homes and land-scape we live in.
When your home was designed the Kayenta Concept was front and center. The ACC reviewed your design to evaluate whether it followed the rules, and the ACC monitored construction of your home through landscaping and occupation, again, reviewing adherence to design and construction standards. When you received your occupancy permit and construction deposit refund from the ACC, on-going compliance with the Kayenta Con-cept became the responsibility of your HOA Board of Directors. Your Board has the authority to perpetuate the Kayenta Concept into the future and gladly accepts that role.
The Kayenta Concept is worth reviewing to remind us that what we have here has only happened because of the rules Kayenta developer Terry Marten set up to own, build and live in Kayenta. His vision and the governing documents he developed to achieve and maintain that vision established the Kayenta HOAs and gave them the responsibility and authority to enforce the CC&Rs that underlie the beauty and value we all enjoy
Ivins City Dumpster Dates and Blucan Recycling Calendars
Ivins City Offices are open.
For Appointments with a specific department call:
Administration: 435-628-0606
Building: 435-634-9753
Parks or Cemetery: 435-634-7719
Public Works: 435-634-0689
Dispatch: 435-634-5730 or Animal Control: 435-628-1049
Ongoing Events and Activities
Weekly and monthly gatherings
Kayenta Book Lovers
Meetings the 2nd Monday of every month. For more details contact our bookclub
Kayenta Weavers
The Kayenta Weavers group meets weekly to enjoy the limitless creativity of off-loom weaving.
For information contact Katie
Submissions
Email submissions / changes to kayentaconnection@rdicreative.com with “Kayenta Connection (month)” in the subject line. Our Kayenta Connection Newsletter updates the 1st of the Month. Please submit 6 days prior to the end of the month to be included.
The Kayenta Connection is a publication that is focused on the Kayenta Community (residents, visitors and other interested folks). Information and articles should appeal to our Kayenta readers and reflect the spirit of our community. The KC cannot be responsible for mistakes submitted by the contributor.
The information submitted does not imply sponsorship or reflect the views and opinion of Kayenta Homes & Properties or Kayenta Development. Content not deemed appropriate for our readers will not be published. All information published in the KC is subject to editing.
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