Coffee and Cocktails Coming Soon!
Xetava will be bringing back coffee in the mornings, coming sometime in January…
they also got their liquor license approved, so cocktails are coming as well…
Our office is open 7-days a week to help with all your Kayenta real estate needs.
Your Kayenta Home & Properties Sales Team:
Jeff Sproul, Principal Broker
Steve McAllister & Naomi Doyle, Sales Agents
435-628-7234 www.kayentahomes.com
Jeff, Steve, and Naomi, of Kayenta Homes & Properties,
would like to invite you to our annual residents’ “Holiday Inspired Open House”
Delicious treats and beverages will be provided and just in case you were wondering…
There will be a return of last year’s Gourmet Hot Chocolate Bar.
Where: Center for the Arts at Kayenta
When: January 19th, 2023, 1-4 pm
Please RSVP Before January 12, 2023
Residents only, please. This event is hosted and paid for by Kayenta Homes & Properties.
We have hired Victoria Topham and Petite Feast to once again be our delectable caterers.
Mykola Suk Returns!
January 7
Featuring: Precocious Beethoven, Piano Trio Opus 1 #1, Bagatelles for Solo Piano, Piano Concerto #1
“An astonishing blend of muscular power, poetry and utter control he will prove to be one of the more formidable talents to have appeared in this country in years.” (American Record Guide).
Soiree Musicale presents the return of World-renowned pianist Mykola Suk at the Center for the Arts at Kayenta.
Ukrainian-American pianist Mykola Suk gained international recognition as the winner of the First Prize and Gold Medal at the 1971 International Liszt-Bartok Competition in Budapest, Hungary. His international career has spanned four continents, with performances in the most prestigious venues from the Great Hall of Moscow Conservatory to Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall and Carnegie Hall in New York City.
Voyager Lecture Series
January 10
The Voyager Lecture Series–Evenings to Inspire Curiosity & Wonder In our sixth season
Join us as Dr. Haslem walks us through the HeridiGene Research happening now at Intermountain Hospital and beyond. Researchers are hoping HeridiGene Research uncovers new understanding about who’s at risk for what conditions, which medications may work in some patients and not others, and contribute to a greater understanding in overall human biology. What is HerediGene? HerediGene Study is a research study mapping the genomes of hundreds of thousands of patients and participants across the intermountain west. Anyone can enroll by consenting at HerediGene.org and donating a small amount of blood at an Intermountain Healthcare hospital or clinic.
Kate MacLeod Concert
January 14
Awarded “Best of the West” by the Far-West division of Folk Alliance International.
“It may be about Utah but the experiences and sentiments should touch a chord with communities far beyond its borders, while the music and her songs assuredly make this one of the best Americana albums you’ll encounter this year.” ~Mike Davies, Fatea/UK
Americana musician Kate MacLeod brings music to you through her original songs, instrumentals, and creative renditions of traditional and popular music. Since her first recording (produced by Charles Sawtelle of Hot Rize) her songs have been recorded by other artists from California to the Czech Republic. Kate has toured in the United States, Canada, Belgium, Holland, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Italy, and the UK. She was chosen for the Best of the West Award, 2019, by the Far-West division of the Folk Alliance International.
True West
January 26 - February 4
True West is widely understood to be one of Sam Shepard’s most potent plays.
The performance projects a grim slice of Americana, profiling two estranged brothers: a Hollywood screenwriter and a petty thief. The struggle of the American Dream is at the heart of this classic play, and Sam Shepard brings all its ugliness and heartbreak to light.
“Shepard’s masterwork… It tells us a truth, as glimpsed by a 37-year-old genius.”~New York Post
“I wanted to write a play about double nature, one that wouldn’t be symbolic or metaphorical or any of that stuff. I just wanted to give a taste of what it feels like to be two-sided. It’s a real thing, double nature. I think we’re split in a much more devastating way than psychology can ever reveal. It’s not so cute. Not some little thing we can get over. It’s something we’ve got to live with.” – Sam Shepard
If you have any questions, please contact me at: ivinsutahcert@gmail.com
David Williams/ Ivins CERT Coordinator
BEST SHOW YET!
Artist’s Reception
Wednesday, January 4th, 2023
6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Everyone is invited to the next Artists Reception at the beautiful Center for the Arts at Kayenta. This “Nature in Abstraction” juried display will showcase dozens of unique 2-D and 3-D pieces by some of the area’s most talented creators.
The show will hang from January 4th through February and will be available during all Center for the Arts at Kayenta open hours, including during live shows. Come greet your neighbors and enjoy the talent! Admission is FREE.
For more information please see: kayentaarts.com/art-exhibits/
Congratulations to the winners of the People’s Choice Awards for the “Stories from the Desert” watercolor show: Roland Lee’s exquisite landscape, “Hope’s Glorius Light” and Sarah Kunzler, with her beautiful piece entitled “The Eye of the Desert”. The vote was an exact tie – congratulations to both artists!
Kayenta Community
The local perspective. Our businesses and residents news and events.
MakeSpace Art School and Studios
Try something new in the new year! Grab a friend and join us for an art class in the village in 2023. There is a class for everyone from true beginners to experienced artists. Consider experimenting with different medium such as acrylic pour, sculpture, printmaking, fiber arts, and encaustics. (Never heard of encaustics? Students have loved this class. Learn how to create art with wax and flames!)
A variety of painting classes are available too. Enjoy the camaraderie of painting with others in a fun environment while learning new skills in oil, acrylic, or watercolor. Or consider one of MakeSpace’s new classes, “Painting with Gouache for Beginners” This class will introduce you to the beauty and simplicity of painting with gouache. A little like acrylic, and a little like watercolor, this paint will be your new favorite medium.
Supplies are included for many of the classes so all you need to do is enroll. Create some new art and new memories in the new year.
Here is what some of the MakeSpace students are saying:
Here is what some of the MakeSpace students are saying:
Steve McAllister: “I may not have a creative bone in my body but had a lot of fun getting in touch with my artistic side today. Fortunate to have MakeSpace Kayenta close by.”
Lori Capshaw: “I feel like I am looking at the world through new eyes. The atmosphere and spirit of MakeSpace is so open and friendly that being creative comes easily while true learning is happening. I am starting to truly believe I can be a productive artist.”
Cindy Smith: “Free your inner child! Take a class and make something wonderful. You will surprise yourself. “
Upcoming MakeSpace Classes
Let your inner artist create! Make Space has over 23 upcoming classes scheduled through March.
Deena Riley Millecamp
Watercolor Painting for Beginners: 3-Week Series
Perfect Class
for Beginners
Instructor: Deena Riley Millecamp
When: Feb. 6, 13 & 27 (NO CLASS Feb. 20)
Enter the world of watercolor painting! In this three-week course, Deena will introduce materials and techniques associated with this fascinating medium. Join fellow students that are new to watercolor in a fun, encouraging environment.
David Shevlino
Four-Day Figure and Portrait Oil Painting Workshop
Internationally recognized artist to teach at Make Space
Instructor: David Shevlino
When: March 15-18, 2023
David Shevlino is a master of capturing the human figure in an emotionally captivating way. He generously shares his techniques and strategies with his students across the United States and Europe and we are excited to welcome him to Southern Utah!
MAKESPACE | 918 ART VILLAGE WAY | IVINS, UTAH 84738
Information & Class Registration
makespacekayenta.com
Resident Spotlight
James and Melinda Ellwanger
Until recently, James and Melinda Ellwanger spent their lives surrounded by the agricultural fields and endless horizons of America’s heartland. They never considered the high desert as a place of residence until they discovered this corner of southern Utah on a 2015 trip to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab. Captivated by the stunning red cliffs and stark landscape – so wildly different from the verdant Midwestern prairie – they decided that if an opportunity arose, they wanted to make this magical locale their permanent home.
That opportunity came in 2022, when they relocated to Kayenta and became full-time residents. The fit could not be more perfect. James is a large-scale metal sculptor and mixed-media artist whose work now reflects his new desert surroundings. His career began in 1999 and his pieces are part of public, private, corporate and museum collections across the United States. Melinda is a civil rights litigator, specializing in trial preparation and appellate work. She works remotely and happily under the shadow of the Red Mountain. Their adult son, Jess, lives nearby in Washington City and is a Certified Flight Instructor, who is treated each day to a birds-eye view of the magnificent red rock canyon country.
With a design and construction background, James has been busy overseeing the extensive renovations and updates to their 1990’s-era home and outdoor courtyard spaces. Melinda hikes, bikes and explores in her free time and has been involved in trail steward and environmental conservation activities. She is currently training to be a volunteer member of Ivins’ Community Emergency Response Team.
The couple share their home with two rescue dogs, William and Carson. Their favorite Kayenta pastime is taking everyone for an evening walk through the neighborhood as the sun sets behind the Beaver Dam Mountains. Surrounded by the beauty, peace and serenity of this absolutely unique place, both feel that they’ve truly arrived home.
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.
Volunteers Needed for Kayenta’s Parade of Homes 2023 Entry
Now that we are into the New Year, it’s time to bring the community together again for volunteers to our 2023 Parade Home. The dates will be February 17th through the 26th divided up into 2 hour and 15 minute shifts. Our orientation meeting will be on Wednesday the 15th of February at 2pm at this year’s Parade Home. We will go over the hosting process and give you the opportunity to be the first people to view the home.
Please follow this link to sign up and lock in your spot or two!
Thank you for your continued support of this wonderful community.
SAVE THE DATE
February 18th-19th • 10am to 5pm each day.
Mark your calendars – it’s not too early to start thinking about spring. Spend President’s Day weekend with us at the Kayenta February Art Festival. Village galleries and businesses present a smaller, more intimate affair that showcases fine art, home decor, jewelry, art inspiration and live music. This exceptional experience will take place Saturday and Sunday, February 18th-19th, from 10am to 5pm each day.
Kayenta Art Village Studios and Galleries.
Unique Experiences, Local Perspective, Exceptional Art.
December 2022 Ivins City Council Update
Mike Scott, Ivins Council Member
Are You Ready For Step 2?
The General Plan survey results published on December 15th clearly showed what residents think about a lot of issues. But the survey is just the first step. Next step: January Neighborhood Meetings.
Yogi Berra once said that baseball is 90% mental, the other half is physical. Your participation in the survey was the mental part. Show up at the January Neighborhood Meetings to add real life meaning to the statistical results in the survey. Showing up is the physical part. And it is critical. In fact, I think it is the 90% half.
What kind of message do you think it sends the City Council if residents don’t show up at the January Neighborhood Meetings? A lot of comments in the survey showed a distrust of the council to follow the survey results. The survey’s 1-to-5 scoring approach was useful but abstract. Showing up and talking about issues breathes life into them. It makes them real. That makes them harder to ignore.
You can download the survey report and accompanying 100+ page PDF of comments from participants at: https://www.ivins.com/survey-results/
The Neighborhood Meetings will be on January 10th, 11th, and 12th beginning at 7pm. Here are the geographical “neighborhoods” for those meetings:
- Tuesday January 10th if you live between 200 East to our east boundary
- Wednesday January 11th if you live between 200 East to 400 West
- Thursday January 12th if you live between 400 West to our west boundary of the city.
If your designated evening doesn’t work, then come on whatever night does work.
All three Neighborhood meetings in January will be broadcast online and those links will be provided in the City’s January newsletter.
Thank You
Thank you for taking an interest in community issues this year. I appreciate all the emails you sent me with suggestions and concerns. Please keep them coming because we’re just getting started. Your input will be vitally important in the new year. Stay involved. Show up at meetings when there are issues that matter to you. Best wishes for a healthy, happy, and rewarding 2023!
More information
I try to keep these articles relatively concise. Not doing too well at that. It’s frustrating because there’s so much I want 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.
More information
I try to keep these articles relatively concise. Not doing too well at that. It’s frustrating because there’s so much I want 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.
Petite Feast Dinner Club
ARRIVE AS GUESTS….LEAVE AS FRIENDS
RESERVE YOUR SEAT AT THE TABLE
ONLY A FEW SEATS REMAIN FOR JANUARY’S TABLE. RESERVE YOUR SEATS TODAY
JANUARY WELCOME 2023 DINNER
SUNDAY JANUARY 29, 2023
HORS D’OEUVRE
DAUPHINE POTATOES WITH CREME FRAICHE
RED PEPPER CHUTNEY WITH GOAT CHEESE AND HOUSE MADE CRACKERS
APPLE, HONEY AND CIDER SPARKLING WINE
FIRST COURSE
APPLE AND PARSNIP SOUP
SECOND COURSE
BRAISED LEEKS WITH SMOKED CHEDDAR CRUMBLE AND THYME
ENTREE
SOY GLAZED BEEF WITH ROASTED TURNIP PUREE
Non-beef or vegetarian entree available as well – contact Victoria through the website to discuss options.
DESSERT
SPICED APPLE CRUMBLE, APPLE CREME BRULEE AND APPLE SHOT
To reserve your seat at the table please click on the link below.
For the health and safety of all our guests, we request that all guests be fully vaccinated.
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.
“The food was beyond what words can say. Everything was prepared to perfection and the taste and presentation was outstanding. To watch everyone enjoying their food and the company that surrounded them made my heart sing. It was the best birthday EVER. You do such a fantastic job as do your servers. No glass was ever left empty. The laughter and the joy was overwhelming.”
– Wendy Bradley
VIRTUAL DINNER PARTY # 78
ROASTED CAULIFLOWER WITH PICKELD CUCUMBER AND SCALLION SALAD
Cauliflower is a humble and unpretentious vegetable. It is nutritious and somewhat plain and therefore, the perfect vegetable for the dietary fresh start I have vowed to make after all of the cookies, churros and cocktails I consumed during the holiday season.
Boiled or steamed, cauliflower’s flavor is decidedly delicate and bland– good for my Spartan resolution but not very satisfying for dinner. Even when tossed with a little olive oil and roasted, it’s earthy sweetness is intensified but it’s flavor is still a tad ho-hum. But, if you add a zesty glaze of ketchup, gochujang, garlic, ginger and orange marmalade (no kidding), this brassica morphs into full-on big deal territory. Serve over steamed rice with a quick pickled cucumber and scallion salad and you’ve got a great (and healthy) vegetarian entree. Add a soft boiled egg and you can check that protein box too.
The sauce plays well with almost anything; it’s terrific with roasted sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts, crispy tofu or stir fried vegetables. You can even use it to add a spicy shine to roasted chicken breasts or toss it with last night’s leftover linguine for a spicy cold noodle salad.
INGREDIENTS:
1 head cauliflower, trimmed and cut into large florets
2 T olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 C ketchup
2 T gochujang (you may use less if you prefer a less spicy sauce)
3 T orange marmalade
1 T low sodium soy sauce
2 cloves minced garlic
1 T ginger, peeled and grated
PICKLE INGREDIENTS:
1/4 C rice wine vinegar
3 T granulated sugar
2 ea. scallion – cut into thirds and then julienned into long thin strips. Soak in iced water for 15 minutes and drain. (This step removes some of the sharp bite of the scallions)
1ea. cucumber, peeled seeded and cut into 1/4″ dice
2T cilantro, minced
Optional: toasted sesame seeds, cilantro and soft-boiled egg for serving.
METHOD:
In a small saucepan or skillet, combine the ketchup, gochujang, orange marmalade, soy sauce, ginger and garlic and bring to simmer over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Remove from heat and set aside.
Preheat oven to 400°F.
Trim the leaves from the cauliflower and cut in half. Cut each half into quarters and then break cauliflower into large florets. (I like to use the stem portion too but you can remove it if you prefer)
Combine 1/4 C of the prepared sauce with the olive oil. (*Reserve remain sauce for use later in recipe.) Pour mixture over cauliflower, tossing well to evenly coat all the pieces. Use your hands to massage the sauce into all the cauliflower’s nooks and crannies. Spread the cauliflower out in a single layer on a foil-lined baking sheet that has been sprayed with pan spray. Bake until tender and browned, about 30 to 40 minutes.
While cauliflower is roasting, prepare cucumber scallion pickle. Combine rice wine vinegar, 2T water and granulated sugar in a small microwave safe bowl. Microwave on high for 40 seconds. Remove from microwave and add drained scallions, cucumber and cilantro. Mix thoroughly and refrigerate until ready to plate.
To serve, remove roasted cauliflower from oven and toss with some of the reserved sauce. Spoon cauliflower over steamed rice and top with cucumber scallion pickle, sesame seeds and soft boiled egg if desired.
***Any leftover sauce may be refrigerated for up to two weeks.
Even if you did not over do it during the holidays as I did, or you have never even thought about venturing into the world of vegetable-centric meals, I hope you’ll give this recipe a try. I think it’s pretty good.
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 comes from it fills us with joy, hope and gratitude. I hope you all enjoy it as much as I do.
Thanks for coming to the party. I hope 2023 is filled with all kinds of good things to eat and the joy of sharing them with those you love. Cook On! – Victoria
Hours of Operation
Monday 11:30am – 5pm
Tues/Wed CLOSED
Thursday 11:30 – 8pm
Friday and Saturday 11:30 – 8pm
Sun 9am – 8pm (Brunch served 9-12)
435.656.0165
Thank you very much for your continued support. Closing at 3: Super Bowl Sunday, Valentine’s Day (to prepare for our special pre-sold dinner service) Easter, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, July 4th, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve
Health, Fitness & Wellness
Kayenta’s locally run gyms, fitness classes, spas, group workouts, wellness activities and mindful experiences.
HAPPY NEW YEAR
“Don’t give up on your dreams, or your dreams will give up on you.”
– John Wooden
Elevate Fitness
Jump Start your New Year at Elevate.
A new focus with new classes to inspire and motivate everyone.
Check our website and Facebook page for more details.
Elevate Cardio • 8:30am Wed (TENTATIVE)
Step & Strength • 8:00am Thur (TENTATIVE)
Elevate Fit x-tended • 8am Sat (TENTATIVE)
ElevateFit • 9:30am, Mon, Wed, Fri
Elevate Yoga • 11:00am Wed (TENTATIVE), 9:30 am Thur, 10am Sat
Ali’s Yoga • 9:30am Tues
Elevate Zen Stretch • 11:00am Mon, Fri (TENTATIVE)
Open Gym • 11:30am – 3:30 pm Tues, Thurs (TENTATIVE)
IF A CLASS IS LISTED AS “TENTATIVE” PLEASE CHECK OUR FACEBOOK PAGE OR CONTACT JOHN FOR CONFIRMATION FIRST BEFORE ATTENDING.
FOR INFORMATION:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089166725468
Elevate Studio Kayenta
www.johnyohmanfitnessretreats.com
Elevate Studio • 435-632-1381 • jyfitness@me.com
Participants MUST be vaccinated. Class size is limited and subject to change. Pre-registration is required.
Be happy. Be healthy. Have a blast! ELEVATE!
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!
I will also be offering Sacred Healing Classes one Saturday morning a month
at my most sacred place, my home.
Classes include:
Sacred Tea Ceremony • Meditation • Yoga
Class/workshop will be 2 hours.
Please email me for a list of upcoming classes and dates.
Vaccination cards are required to attend in-person classes.
Call/text: 435-862-7743
sacredspacespa@gmail.com
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
For a full list of Spa Treatments visit:
Tel: 435-862-7743 • Sacredspacespa@gmail.com
Trips and Trails
Kayenta Exploration Group
January 23, 2023
Going to Old Fort Pearce, Honeymoon Trail, and Dinosaur Tracks northeast of St. George
Meet at the Kayenta Design Center at 10 am.
Bring a lunch. 10 miles of dirt road. Half-day trip.
For details call Charles Dillier at 435-656-1956
Javier’s Massage
Javier Guzman LMT/LMMT
(Kayenta Resident)
Massage is medicine for the body and mind
“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 Home Yoga
Vigorous Vinyasa & Yin/Deep Stretch
December’s Classes
Life is a balance of both Yin and Yang:
Vigorous Vinyasa Flow classes help energize the body while calming the mind.
I offer mindful, alignment-based Vinyasa classes which include seated and standing poses, a bit of balance and core work, all leading up to a peak pose to challenge mind and body. You are welcome to level up or down and to skip poses — this is your practice!
Relaxing Yin/Deep Stretch classes open the body and mind, turning awareness inward. Each pose is held several minutes, allowing time for the tissues to lengthen and inviting the mind to enter a meditative state. Yin Yoga has been described as an internal massage for the tissues and organs. Leave feeling relaxed and supple in body and mind!
Wednesdays 9:30-10:45am Vigorous Vinyasa
Thursdays 9:30-10:45am Relaxing Yin/Deep Stretch
$15 cash/Venmo. Your first class is free!
Classes are held at my small Kayenta Home Yoga studio.
Bolsters, blocks, and straps are provided. Please bring your own yoga mat.
Karen Kushner (E-RYT 500)
karenkushneryoga@gmail.com
978-621-0499
Kayenta Pickleball Group (KPG)
Pickleball is one of the fast-growing sports in the US.
It helps us stay fit; allows us to meet and make friends in our community and – most importantly – have fun!
Organized drop-in play occurs 4 mornings a week. The start time is currently 10:00, but changes with the seasons.
Mondays-Women’s League,
Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays
(Mixed drop-in play).
Currently, there are 30 active players in this thriving group of Kayenta residents. Players are welcome to set up their own matches, do drills and use the courts freely outside of those designated times.
If you would like more information, please contact:
Barbara Vaughn: bvaughn@montana.com.
Desert 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: 435-674-1664
collins@skyviewmail.com
Beth Hopwood: 802-922-8905
bhopvt@gmail.com
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
December 2022 Update
A partnership born of intersecting passions
A true partnership supports mutual benefit. Such is the collaboration between the Desert Preservation Initiative (DPI) and the Southern Utah Woodturners (SUW), where the work of preserving the natural habitat intersects with that of a group of talented artists who work in wood.
In recent weeks, as members of DPI cut and hauled limbs and trees as part of their effort to remove the invasive tamarisk from Kayenta, they were joined by Barry Gray and Ron Kirchen of SUW in tackling some of the larger trees, in particular what DPI President Chuck Warren dubbed “the mother tree,” one measuring nearly 50 feet tall and having a 51-inch circumference.
For the Woodturners, who often work with what Gray calls FOGwood, or wood “found on ground,” the chance to capture larger pieces of tamarisk was a real opportunity. Tamarisk is prized as a raw material for creating beautiful bowls, platters, and other wood pieces because of its graining and the natural twists and turns in the wood, according to Gray.
Kirchen, who often goes on “wood recovery” expeditions, joined Gray on the Kayenta project, bringing his skill in working with chainsaws and safely taking down large trees. He is also intrigued by the interesting colors and configurations, such as burls, in tamarisk, in “the god-given beauty of the wood.” Not knowing what’s inside, he says, there is a “discovery aspect as you find occlusions that add an artistic dimension to a piece.”
The partnership between SUW and DPI was born based on the experience of DPI Secretary Terrence Walters, who previously directed a large botanical garden in Coral Gables, Florida, home to some unique and extremely old African, Asia, and South American trees. When some of those trees were blown over by Florida storms, Walters would call on the South Florida Woodturners Guild, whose members were “thrilled to receive such highly sought-after species,” he says. Thus, when he learned that tamarisk was also prized by wood artisans, Walters wrote a letter to the officers of SUW.
“Within one day of receiving my letter, I had three SUW members on the phone ready to become part of DPI’s tamarisk removal project,” he says. “They also offered to assist us with cutting down trees. Their members are well-trained in chainsaw safety and usage, and we were delighted to have their help in hauling the trunks out of the ravine, and to see the cut trunks donated to their members.”
SUW Vice-President Bill Vincent shared the offer with woodturners from Las Vegas to Cedar City, noting that “tamarisk has a lot of character making it a nice choice for woodturning small items.” The advantage of obtaining the wood in log form allows the artist to cut it “to take advantage of the natural character of the wood such as the crotch and knots.”
Gray, who exhibits his work in local galleries and has won prizes in local art festivals and exhibitions, adds that tamarisk is a very figurative wood, but that it is rarely available in larger, 10-18” diameter pieces, hence the value of the DPI project to SUW members. As Gray says, quoting master turner Kurt Hertzog, “The magic is not in the hands or tools that we use, the magic is in what we find inside the wood.”
For more about the Southern Utah Woodturners, a club “dedicated to promoting woodturning in Southern Utah through educational demos, classes, and fellowship between members” whose motto is “Learning Through Turning,” see http://www.southernutahwoodturners.com/
INKAS – Ivins No Kill Animal Supporters
Advocate: Lois Hewitt
Members of INKAS became Santa’s helpers last month, bringing Christmas cheer to the Santa Clara – Ivins Animal Shelter. Stockings stuffed with toys, treats and new collars were delivered to the dogs and cats at the shelter. The dogs wagged their tails with excitement and stood on hind legs to sniff at the stockings hanging on their kennel doors. The cats tumbled over each other impatiently as they tried to be first to explore their stockings. The INKAS helpers also presented gift cards to Washington County animal rescue organizations in support of their work helping homeless animals. It is your generous support that enables us to provide assistance to these animals while they are waiting to be a part of a loving family.
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
Please visit the Initiative’s website for more information at IvinsNightSky.org or email them at info@IvinsNightSky.org.
The mission of the Ivins Night Sky Initiative is to improve, preserve, and protect the night sky over Ivins and our heritage of dark skies through education and information about 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.
Friends of Snow Canyon State Park
Advocates: Lori Capshaw
Events
Live events have returned. New events will be listed regularly so check our website often.
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 web site.
E-mail us at friendsofsnowcanyon@gmail.com. “Like” us on www.facebook.com/ FriendsofSnowCanyon.
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
Staying Put in Kayenta is a member-driven organization for Kayenta residents, proactively providing programs and services so members can lead vibrant, active and healthy lives while living in their own homes.
For information contact
Ellen Nathan
Secretary for Staying Put in Kayenta
435-652-8333
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 or Happy2help.Andrea@gmail.com
Kayenta Committees
Board opportunities, landscaping, and ACC & HOA contact information.
Kayenta Desert Arboretum
Interested in volunteering in the arboretum? Or just looking for information about the arboretum or our lecture series. Please contact Roger Head, rbhkayenta@gmail.com or 435-632-1814.
Kayenta Landscaping Committee
Please visit the Kayenta HOA website ACC tab for Landscaping documentation. Select Landscaping Regulations Rev 2017 and Landscaping Review Steps 2017.
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: arneen@infowest.com
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
Blue Can Recycling
January 2 & 16
Dumpster Dates
January14-Check City Website as date was not listed as of this post.
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 groups meets weekly to enjoy the limitless creativity of off-loom weaving.
For information contact Katie at: kayentakatie@gmail.com.
Spirit of the Desert Episcopal Church
Spirit of the Desert Episcopal church meets every Sunday at 3 pm at Ivins Unity Park Recreation Room at 350 S 300 W for worship, music, and fellowship. Parking lots are located near the tennis courts and the skate park. We welcome everyone to join us whether you are a visitor, a newcomer, an inquirer, or a member of another church or faith tradition. We are a Christian community that cares for one another, and we’d like to care for you, too.
For additional information or questions, email Father Lee Montgomery at fatherly.montgomery@gmail.com.
*Tahri Marpo Ling Tibetan Buddhist Sangha
Weekly Meditation Practices: OPEN TO ALL
Friday, 10-11 am, Green Tara Practice
Green Tara is known as the Mother of All Buddhas. We engage in this practice to awaken our capacity for enlightened activity, present in the form of the feminine dimension of the primordial nature of mind. Green Tara is known for her ability to dispel fear, anxiety and suffering.
Tuesday, 10-11 am, Awakened Mornings
This practice begins with three guided meditations to focus the mind, open the heart, and generate compassion for all sentient beings. Then, a short form of the Chenrezig practice is led, in English. Chenrezig is known as the Buddha of Compassion.
Contact Lhamo Khandro by calling or texting 801-671-8758 or emailing choshin4@gmail.com
for Zoom instructions for entering this virtual Buddhist sangha.
For more information on classes, weekly meditation practices and retreats, please go to our website: tahrimarpoling.org
Tahri Marpo Ling was founded by Lhamo Thupten Dawa Khandro on May 21st of 2017 with the blessing and guidance of Lama Thupten Rinpoche. Lhamo Khandro has been ordained in both the Zen and Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
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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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