Join us for an incredible evening celebrating our region’s diverse restaurant and growing wine & beer scenes beneath the breathtaking red rocks of Kayenta. This one-of-a-kind food and wine festival brings together the best of the best, allowing patrons to sip, savor, and celebrate our community’s vibrant and growing culinary scene. All proceeds benefit Kayenta Arts Foundation & The Arts in Southern Utah.
This event is 21+. Ticket information can be found on our website
Photos by Alan Holben
Every October, thousands of art enthusiasts and families make their way to the Kayenta Art Village for our annual three-day FREE art festival in Ivins, Utah. Not only do festival goers enjoy spectacular art, they are also treated to stunning desert vistas, culinary delights from festival vendors, a beer and wine garden, live music, and Kayenta’s own delicious Xetava Café and The Rusted Cactus.
Guests will have the opportunity to visit a collection of over 50 juried regional and national artists who specialize in sculpture, painting, jewelry, ceramics, wood, metal, and other media. “The quality of art and extent of creative expression at the Festival is extraordinary. Combined with the Art Village setting and backdrop of the Ivins red mountain, it is truly a special experience,” states Kayenta Arts Board Member, Rob Goodman.
The Art in Kayenta Festival hosts a silent auction featuring original work from the attending artists and offerings from local businesses. Festival guests will have the exclusive opportunity to bid on selected art pieces. Proceeds benefit the Center For the Arts at Kayenta and the performing arts in Southern Utah.
An evening of incredible music from Schubert to Gershwin and beyond.
This evening’s program is dedicated to Ayanna Monteverdi.
Acclaimed pianist Christian Bohnenstengel takes the stage alongside a talented ensemble of guest artists. From the timeless elegance of Schubert to the jazzy brilliance of Gershwin—and surprises beyond—this dynamic program promises something for every music lover. Experience virtuosic performances, rich collaborations, and a journey through genres that will stir the soul and ignite the imagination.
A look back at Kayenta’s visionary start—when a dream of intentional desert living first took root. This event traces the original land acquisition, early designs, and the radical idea of building a sustainable, artful community in the red rock canyons of southern Utah. The Kayenta 100 Project is a living history initiative honoring the first five decades of the Kayenta community in southern Utah. From its bold beginnings in the 1970s to its emergence as a vibrant hub for culture, design, and desert living, this five-part series invites residents and visitors alike to reflect on the people, projects, and ideas that shaped Kayenta’s unique story. Through storytelling, archival media, open discussions, and interactive experiences, each chapter highlights a transformative era in Kayenta’s evolution.
Cry Wolf: A Magic Play blurs the line between illusion and reality, transforming the theatre into a high-stakes game show where the prize is nothing less than truth itself. For 85 mesmerizing minutes, performer Rhett Guter invites audiences to play along—searching for the hidden “wolf” among volunteer contestants—as jaw-dropping magic, masterful tap dance, and deeply personal storytelling unfold.
An observant Kayenta resident noticed that her chollas did not seem to be doing well. The plants looked like they were struggling, possibly dying. At first, she chalked it up to the lack of water. But when she looked closer, she started to notice white spots on the dying branches and some “cottony white spots” on many of the branches. So, she did some research and discovered “a bug that bores in the cholla and sucks the life out of them.”
A trip to Star Nursery revealed more, that there is indeed a bug not native to our area that does this. The nurseryman said this insect has come in through all of the people moving here who bring in plants from other states. The nursery also found this problem sometimes on cholla plants brought in for sale.
The solution? The nursery power wash the cholla to remove the bugs, preferring a mix of 80-90% water with Dawn Original dish soap. Following the power wash, they spray the plants with insecticide. The nurseryman recommended Spinosad Soap by Ferti-Lome.
The homeowner who reported this problem had her Kayenta landscaper power wash and spray her cactus and plans to monitor the situation going forward. She also found a similar bug problem on her purple cactus and made a mixture of water and Dawn soap which she used to wash off the white areas with a long brush. Those cacti, she reports, “look much better already.”
Some internet research identifies insects called the cochineal scale insects that attack purple cactus and may be the same one attacking the cholla. The insects insert their mouth parts into the cactus pads and suck out plant juices. Feeding can cause yellowing of cactus pads and heavy infestations can lead to browning and possible death of the plant. As the female feeds, she produces eggs underneath the protective covering.
The Landscaping Committee recommends that you review your cholla and purple cactus and consult your local nurseryman or landscaper for appropriate remedies.
The images here will give you some idea of what to look for.
Note the white spots on these infested cholla.
Jeff Sproul with the Coyote Tales Cowboy
At Kayenta Homes and Properties, we are dedicated to enhancing the initiatives that strengthen our community. One standout project we’re thrilled to support is Coyote Tales, created by Kayenta resident Victoria Topham. We’re proud to sponsor their events, donating the wines and beverages for events held at the Center for the Arts in Kayenta, with all proceeds benefiting the center directly. During the Ivins Heritage Days Festival at Ivins City Park, our team will be there, sharing tasty cookies, refreshing water, and offering insights about Kayenta and our properties for anyone curious to learn more.
As a highlight of the Ivins Heritage Days celebration at Ivins Heritage Park, this special event is set for Saturday night, September 6. The music will start at 7 PM, and the storytelling will begin at dusk. Be sure to bring your own picnic, and remember, the team at Kayenta Homes and Properties has that cookie waiting for you!
Jeff Sproul, Principal Broker
Steve McAllister & Naomi Doyle, Sales Agents
435-628-7234
Conservation botanist Shaunna Goldberry joins Jake Benson, conservation planner with UDFA and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (far left), and Chris Courville, Best Friends Animal Society, Kanab (far right), to learn more about DPI practices from President Chuck Warren (second from left).
Shaunna Goldberry is a passionate conservation botanist. Thus, it’s no wonder when she meets people with similar interests, she is quick to forge relationships and explore areas where they might strengthen what each one does. So it was when Goldberry met DPI President Chuck Warren at a community event.
Growing up along the Wasatch front as a self-described outdoor enthusiast, Goldberry was “always so upset by motorcross, by people tearing up the mountainside and by acid draining from mines.” She took to personally dragging in rocks to control erosion in some affected areas.
She pursued degrees in microbiology and botany and went to work as a park naturalist at Antelope Island State Park, where she spent two years researching the huge problem created by cheatgrass on the island, eventually presenting her work at an international conference. But the real outcome was a career focus on what she calls “WOWEE—weeds, water and education.”
That focus on weeds, primarily on invasive species, drove Goldberry’s immediate embrace of the work of DPI. She worries about the perils of monocultures, where invasive species often shut out the diversity of other plant, animal and insect species and about mitigation effects that misuse chemicals or herbicides doing more harm than good.
Meeting Chuck Warren and visiting projects undertaken by DPI left her impressed with the “organization, commitment, resolve and creativity” of the people involved, taking their work as “citizen scientists” all the way to setting up DPI as a nonprofit. Already, she has made connections between DPI and other local environmental and governmental agencies addressing shared concerns. A grant writer and project manager herself, Goldberry has offered to help DPI identify and pursue grant opportunities that might enable it to hire labor for field work and fund reseeding efforts to speed restoration.
Looking at the environmental/conservation issues facing Southern Utah, Goldberry sees water and changing climate at the top of the list, citing water quality and quantity problems along with habitat degradation caused by the human footprint. “Ivins city needs societal, technological innovations,” she says, such as a plan to “meter everybody, individuals and corporations, for water use transparency.” In addition, she says, “we need to embrace technological advances, treat water more like precious resource it is.”
In conversations sprinkled with references to the interconnectedness of each human action with the natural world, Goldberry is clear that working together and educating everyone about our shared responsibility for environmental stewardship is critical. And it’s also clear why this science educator, grant writer, and full-on advocate for habitat restoration is a valuable ally for DPI.
For more in-depth information on the people, progress and plans of the Desert Preservation Initiative, visit our newly launched website.
Almost There—Help Us Cross the Finish Line!
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, the Ivins Arts Commission has raised $42,585 (87%) toward purchasing the Whitaker Wind Sculptures. Only $6,115 remains to reach our goal!
Every gift, big or small, brings us closer to making this beautiful public art a permanent part of Ivins. Please donate today or send this link to someone who might help: ivinsartscommission.com/donate
Thank you for supporting the arts in Ivins!
Grand Prize – The Café Couture Oven with Air Fry from Appliance Wholesalers. Bake, air fry, toast, dehydrate & more—all without firing up your main oven. Your new countertop BFF awaits! ($550 value)
Second Place – A gorgeous Baker’s Specialty serving platter, cake stand, and stainless-steel skillet from Boulevard Home. ($200 value)
Third Place – A professional baker’s gift basket from Petite Feast, packed with tools and inspiration to take your baking to the next level. ($150 value)
If you’re ready to roll, submit your application in person at City Hall at 85 N Main St, Ivins, UT 84738, or online at ivins.recdesk.com under PROGRAMS. If you have any questions, please contact Victoria, at petitefeastutah@gmail.com.
between 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. (see map) with judging starting promptly at 10:30 a.m.
Winners will be announced on September 13th after our judges determine the winning pies.
Mike Scott, Council Member
On August 14th, the City Council voted to approve an $860,000 property tax increase. The council chambers were full that night, with more than 80 residents in attendance, and most opposed the increase. It was by far the hardest meeting I’ve had in three and a half years on the council.
I know this decision adds pressure to household budgets, and no one wants higher taxes. I don’t either. But I also believe this was necessary for the long-term health of our city. The next morning—after a sleepless night—I wrote down my reasoning in detail and posted it in an article on my website (https://www.mikescott4ivins.com/?p=5432).
Since then, a resident has filed a referendum petition, which, if it qualifies, will place the tax increase on the November 4th ballot for voters to approve or reject. That means our budget, and our ability to meet city needs, could be up in the air until then.
So, what’s really at stake? At its core, the question is: what kind of city do we want Ivins to be?
Some say our budget is bloated. It isn’t. Compared to other Washington County cities, Ivins collects and spends less in total taxes per person, well below average. Even with the tax increase, our per-capita revenue would still trail behind. That’s not a picture of government excess; it’s a sign we’ve stretched every dollar as far as possible.
This budget doesn’t add “extras” like pickleball courts or splash pads. It covers the basics, public safety, roads, parks maintenance, and water infrastructure. Many residents have seen and complained about weeds in city medians, needed road and trail repairs, and other city service issues that needed more attention. Those aren’t signs of waste or indifference. They’re signs of a lean city that has struggled to keep up with growth and inflation.
Many residents suggested alternatives: delay vehicle purchases, dip into our reserves, or assume new revenue from Black Desert Resort will arrive soon. On the surface, those ideas sound simple and appealing. But they’re risky.
Delays push costs into the future, where inflation makes them higher. Reserves need to be protected for unexpected emergencies. Black Desert revenues will come, and we’re projecting that revenue to grow every year over the next five years, but construction delays already mean much of the benefit is still years away. They recently delayed the construction of their “Boardwalk” retail shops and restaurants by at least two years. That was to be a major source of sales tax revenue for the city.
We also heard: why hire more staff? The truth is, Ivins has far fewer police officers, parks workers, and public works staff per capita than state and national benchmarks.
The real issue is structural. For 15 years, Ivins held the property-tax rate flat while costs rose with inflation. We’ve patched the gap with one-time fixes, but those options are gone. The result is a deficit that will grow larger ea
ch year if we don’t fix it now. I won’t rehash here why I believe we need a property tax increase or how we got here. This article is already too long and I’ve already covered that in other articles: “Why a Property Tax Increase is on the Table” in June at https://www.mikescott4ivins.com/?p=4709 and “Time for a Property Tax Discussion” in April at https://www.mikescott4ivins.com/?p=4056.
I don’t like raising taxes any more than you do. But avoiding the issue doesn’t make it go away. The referendum means voters may decide this directly in November. Until then, the question remains: do we want Ivins to stay lean but functional, with the resources needed to provide safe streets, reliable services, and well-kept parks, or do we want to accept a gradual decline in those things to keep taxes lower?
That’s the real choice ahead. For those who want the full detail of why I voted the way I did, and how I weighed the alternatives, you can read my complete article at https://www.mikescott4ivins.com/?p=5432.
Over the past several months, many Ivins residents have voiced concerns about repeated power outages. In response, I contacted the Utah Public Service Commission on July 16, requesting detailed outage data and explanations from Rocky Mountain Power (RMP). Commissioner John Harvey responded within two hours and the Commission communicated the following message to RMP:
“The PSC received the email below from Ivins City and we feel the request is legitimate. Based on past experience (outage reports to DPU), we know that Rocky Mountain Power monitors the circuits individually. The commissioners would like Rocky Mountain Power to respond to the Ivins City Council member, Mr. Mike Scott, providing the comparison information he seeks. If possible please respond within two weeks but no later than 30 days. Please copy us at psc@utah.gov on the response.”
Two days later, Michele Beck, Director of the Office of Consumer Services, reached out as well, expressing a particular interest in how newer safety protocols, including Enhanced Safety Settings (ESS) and Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS), are being applied, and whether they might be contributing to the number of outages.
On August 13th, the Mayor, our Public Works Director, City Attorney, and two members of the City Council (Lance and I) met with RMP’s president, Dick Garlish, and seven members of his senior leadership team at City Hall. It was a productive discussion, and instead of simply sending me the outage data I had requested, they brought it with them, walked us through the details, and answered our questions on the spot. That gave us a much clearer picture of what’s been causing Ivins’ outages and what they are doing to solve the problem.
Except for one recent outage caused by a vehicle accident, the others were linked to ESS protocols, which automatically shut off power when the system detects a risk. The ESS settings that had been triggering multiple outages were adjusted a few weeks ago. According to RMP, those particular issues should now be resolved. ESS protocols are a newer safety strategy with significant fire-prevention benefits but fine-tuning them can be a bit of a trial-and-error process.
We also discussed investments to improve reliability in our area, as well as the need for better communication going forward, both with City leadership and directly with residents, and having a direct point of contact for ongoing coordination.
We left the meeting with a clear “to-do” list for RMP and a shared commitment to address outage causes and strengthen communication. With a common goal of making concrete improvements, this meeting was a positive step forward, giving us better information about the issues, confirmation that some problems have been fixed, and a framework for improvements still to come.
If you experience damage to your appliances because of an outage, you can submit a claim to RMP customer service at 1-888-221-7070.
I’ll continue to share updates as we receive more information and see progress on the commitments made in the meeting.
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.
Janell Bassett, Editor
As a student at the University of California San Diego, Debbie Ranck signed up for a class called Wilderness and Human Values “just for fun.” The TA turned out to be her future husband Kevin, who taught her rock climbing, and became her fiancé three months later. Over the next three decades, they each explored a variety of career options, worked at the same company at one point, started their own company and ran a franchise, raised two kids and hiked the Sierras, among many, many adventures.
Both began with an interest in medicine. Kevin took degrees in biochemistry and cellular biology but decided “the medical arena wasn’t the lifestyle I wanted.” An MBA with an emphasis in finance promised an entrance into the developing biotechnology industry, but a part-time job at a financial services firm while he was in grad school led him in a different direction—first in teaching staff to use computer programs and later to managing IT for the firm.
Debbie studied biology but decided the long years of school needed to move into medicine were not for her. Instead, she put her degree to use for an environmental testing laboratory managing quality control and assurance. Kevin joined her there as director of IT. Other business ventures followed, including a domain registration company they started and sold. Kevin also got involved in iOS development, creating apps, work he found stimulating as it used “both my artistic side (user interface design, program flow) as well as the nuts and bolts of the actual coding to make it function properly.”
Debbie became a stay-at-home mom for a few years after the birth of their second child, but she wanted both the freedom to volunteer at her kids’ school, to serve as a Cub Scout leader and to have a career, “to have it all.”
So, she operated a Dream Dinners franchise for 13 years, finding that “the responsibility of being the boss and taking care of both my customers and employees helped me grow into the person I am today. “ She brought a variety of community support projects to life through that business. “As always,” she says, “Kevin has been there to help support me with his knowledge and help me physically and emotionally with raising our children and managing my careers.”
Over the years, they have regularly enjoyed hiking, camping and travel. Kevin completed some incredible long distance hikes, 265 miles on the John Muir Trail in 2019 and 100 miles on the O-Circuit in Patagonia in eight days this year. He also took up photography, exhibiting at festivals in Laguna Beach (see his work at KCRPhotos.com). They discovered Kayenta in pursuit of a second home in southern Utah, and eventually built their dream home here, including a rock climbing wall in the basement, moving in in 2023.
Both Rancks are committed to serving the community they have come to love. Debbie joined the Shonto Point HOA board, currently serving as vice president and compliance officer. To this she brings her experience in customer service where working with clients, regulatory inspectors, and bosses taught her “how to compromise and negotiate solutions where most people ended up happy or at least ended up able to live with the compromise.” Kevin, meanwhile, is involved with the ACC and continues to pursue his musical interests, playing guitar and piano.
Family is the center of the Ranck world. When their daughter and her husband moved to Ivins to be close by, Debbie and Kevin embraced their latest new role—as local babysitters, welcoming the arrival of second grandson Owen just a few months ago.
The Rancks relish life in Kayenta, finding the community here “has really added an additional layer to how fortunate we feel to call Kayenta home,” Kevin says. As for the future directions, only time will tell, but the Rancks always stand ready to seize a new opportunity to make the most of life.
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.
Teacher: Matt Pectol
Time: 9am – 12pm
Welcome to our Fall Oil Painting Studio, where creativity and expression come to life! This class is designed for artists of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced painters, who are passionate about exploring the rich and versatile medium of oil paints. In this class, you will have the freedom to work on your own projects at your own pace, while receiving guidance and support from our experienced instructor, Matt Pectol.
Teacher: Carol Bold
Time: 10am – 4pm
Join us for a vibrant two-day acrylic painting workshop with beloved local artist Carol Bold. In this extended class, you’ll explore the bold forms and colors of southwestern botanicals while learning foundational and expressive acrylic techniques. Each day will begin with instruction and demonstrations from Carol, covering everything from color mixing and brushwork to composition and layering. In the afternoons, you’ll have dedicated time to work on your own botanical painting with guidance and feedback as needed.
Teacher: Kaylee Fisher
Time: 5:30 – 7:30 pm
Join us for a hands-on pyrography class where you’ll learn the art of woodburning from start to finish! This session is designed to build your confidence and skills—whether you’re brand new to pyrography or looking to refine your technique. You’ll have the option to work from pre-drawn templates or bring your own creative flair—perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike. All materials are provided. No prior experience needed—just bring your curiosity and creativity!
Teacher: Michael Tabor
Time: 9:oo am – 12:00 pm
Ease into the vibrant world of watercolor painting in this beginner-friendly class. Perfect for those new to the medium, this course offers a gentle introduction to foundational techniques and creative exploration. With guidance from Michael, you’ll build confidence through hands-on practice and live demonstrations. Learn how to handle watercolor materials, experiment with essential techniques, and bring your paintings to life with color, movement, and expression. Supplies Included.
Information & Class Registration
And, while you are there, register your email to receive monthly updates on classes.
The onset of October coincides with days getting shorter and weather getting cooler, but that doesn’t mean bare cupboards and stodgy stews for dinner. While the bright, tender greens of summer may be gone, autumn brings its own vibrant bounty ready to shine. Squash, leeks, potatoes, mushrooms, Parmesan, and pasta all take center stage in this delicious start of fall meal. We hope you’ll join us for a special dinner that celebrates the rich flavors of the season and the joy of gathering with friends and neighbors
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.
“Thank YOU so much for yesterday! What a lovely luncheon. The food, the company, the setting, and the experience – all were just perfect! – M. Burke
” Thank you so much for hosting such a fabulous luncheon today! I enjoyed meeting new friends, and your meal was delicious from start to finish!
It was really a special treat! Today was a reminder of why I love living in Kayenta!” – K. Spearing
Thank you for what you do for our special community here in Kayenta. My first time experiencing your expertise as a chef was exceptional. Every detail, from welcome drinks to the take-home cookie, expressed your love of what you do. The Best! – G. Harrington
“Thank you for the wonderful lunch! I could never be as calm and collected as you were if I were cooking for such a large group.
The food was absolutely delicious! Looking forward to future meals with you!” J. Oliva
This recipe was born out of the bumper crop of zucchini that the ace gardeners at Kayenta Community Gardens have been generously dropping at my doorstep this month. Their well-tended gardens have been overflowing with a bounty of beautiful green squash. I’ve always liked zucchini, but I know it is often dismissed as a bit of a bland, supporting role recipe player. Mild, sweet and agreeable, it can take on the flavor of whatever it’s cooked with. But I strongly disagree. Zucchini is a quiet vegetable powerhouse!
It’s versatile (savory or sweet, raw or cooked), available year-round, and nutritionally impressive. A hundred grams of zucchini has just 20 calories, plus 29% of your daily Vitamin C and 10% of Vitamin B6. And as every low-carb fan knows, spiralized into zoodles, it makes a fantastic gluten-free, low-calorie stand-in for pasta. So, for this month’s VDP, we’re giving zucchini the leading role with a clever riff on classic eggplant involtini.
Traditional involtini usually features roasted eggplant slices rolled around a filling, nestled in marinara, and baked until bubbly. It’s an Italian classic, but the format is flexible. And in this month’s recipe, zucchini makes a stellar stand-in for the eggplant. For this version, I’m filling the rolls with herbed ricotta spiked with sautéed chard and pine nuts, but you could also add crumbled Italian sausage for a heartier twist. The best part? You can assemble the dish ahead of time, pop it in the fridge, and bake when you’re ready. Yes, there’s a bit of prep involved, but trust me, the results are worth it.
Start by slicing zucchini into thin ribbons – a mandoline makes this a breeze, but a sharp knife works too. Lay the slices flat, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and let them sit a few minutes. This draws out extra moisture and softens them just enough to roll. If you prefer a deeper, more robust flavor, you could brush the slices with olive oil and roast briefly, but I love the fresh, slightly bitter bite of raw zucchini against the creamy ricotta filling.
While the zucchini rests, sauté chopped Swiss chard in olive oil until wilted. Then, mix fresh ricotta with lemon zest, pine nuts and thyme and fold in the chard. Spread a dollop of the filling onto the zucchini slices, roll them up snugly, and tuck the coils into the same skillet you used to sauté the chard. Spoon tomato sauce over the top, scatter on plenty of mozzarella, and bake until you’ve got a golden, bubbly, and utterly irresistible fuss-free take on a beloved Italian classic.
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 and Cook On! – Victoria
VIRTUAL DINNER PARTY 109
RICOTTA, LEMON & SWISS CHARD ZUCCHINI INVOLTINI
INGREDIENTS:
1 # zucchini (about 2 large)
1 T extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
kosher salt & freshly cracked pepper
8 oz Swiss chard, leaves only, finely chopped (reserve stems for another use)
1 C whole milk ricotta (see my recipe for homemade ricotta https://petitefeastutah.com/blog/2015/07/10/homemade-ricotta-with-grilled-bread-and-tomato-basil-relish/)
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
2 T toasted pine nuts
1 ½ C fresh tomato sauce or high-quality store-bought
Parmigiano Reggiano & minced fresh parsley, for serving
METHOD
Slice zucchini lengthwise into ¼-inch planks. Square off the side of zucchini by cutting a thin lengthwise slice off one side; discard. Starting on the trimmed side, cut the zucchini lengthwise into 1/4-inch-thick planks, discarding the second end piece. Lay slices flat on a sheet pan and sprinkle lightly with kosher salt. Let rest until softened.
Chef’s Tip: Resting time depends on thickness. Avoid slicing too thick or the rolls may be difficult to roll and, don’t forget to pat the zucchini slices dry after salting. You’ll want to remove the beads of moisture on the zucchini’s surface before proceeding with the recipe.
In a large oven-proof sauté pan over medium-high heat, warm 1 Tbsp olive oil. Add chard, season with salt and pepper, and cook 2 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat.
In a bowl, mix ricotta, lemon zest, toasted pine nuts, thyme, and ¼ tsp salt. Stir in the cooled chard, taking care not to add moisture collected in pan. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Wipe out sauté pan and spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in bottom. Place 2 T filling at one end of each zucchini slice, roll tightly, and arrange seam-side down in the pan. Drizzle lightly with olive oil, top with marinara and a scattering of mozzarella. Bake at 375°F until bubbly and golden, about 10 minutes. Finish with shaved Parmigiano and chopped parsley.
ENJOY!
Serves 2-4
Join us for this free event where we welcome both amateur and experienced storytellers to the stage to share true tales inspired by the night’s theme, IMPOSSIBLE. Have you ever pulled off the unthinkable? Beat the odds? Made it through airport security after a flat tire? Hit the high note or found the needle in the haystack? If you’ve ever stared down the impossible and thought, “No way…” then this night is for you.
The evening begins with a BYOP (Bring Your Own Picnic) pre-show party, where hopeful storytellers toss their names into the hat for a chance to be chosen. Longtime Coyote Tales supporters, Kayenta Homes and Properties, will provide complimentary bottled water and cookies, while Stillhouse Road will fill the summer air with their signature bluegrass sound.
Coyote Tales is delighted to welcome Jennifer Sinor, award-winning author and educator, whose works include Ordinary Trauma, Sky Songs, and The Yogic Writer, to our stage. She will be joined by invited storyteller and lifelong adventurer Kevin Holdsworth; David Michael Sowder, author, educator, and founder of Amrita Yoga; and local genealogist and author Wendy Wilson Spooner. To round out the evening, a few of your brave friends and neighbors have also agreed to put their names in the hat for a chance to share their impossible stories on stage.
If you have a story to tell, we’d love to hear it. Contact Victoria through our website coyotetalesstories.com to learn more about how to get your name in the hat. If you’d rather listen than tell, just come and enjoy an evening of unforgettable, true stories told the Coyote Tales way.
SEPTEMBER 6th’s EVENT IS FREE AND OPEN TO EVERYONE!
All outdoor events are FREE, and all proceeds from indoor shows have gone straight to local nonprofits. Coyote Tales is brought to you with love and support from Petite Feast, Utah Humanities, Kayenta Homes & Properties, and Black Desert Resort. Big thanks to Desert Dweller Realty and SBDance for their in-kind magic.
Photography by Alan Holben
Class size is limited and subject to change.
Elevate Studio • 435-632-1381
jyfitness@me.com
Be happy. Be healthy. Have a blast!
ELEVATE!
Pre-registration is required.
Contact John before attending your first class.
“May we learn to honor the hammock, the siesta, the nap, and the pause in all its forms. May peace prevail.” -Alice Walker
Yoga classes for September 2025
Wednesday • 9:30-10:45 Yin/Deep Stretch
Wednesday • 11:00-12:00 Chair Yoga
Thursday• 9:30-10:45 Vigorous Vinyasa
Preregistration is required. Please call/text/email for more information
Karen Kushner (E-RYT 500)
978-621-0499
Classes are $15 • Punch cards are available for $75 (5 classes)
No sign-up is required!
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
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 DentonThe 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
We are on Summer Break
Trips will resume in October
For details contact Charles Dillier at 435-656-1956
The measure of the strength of a commitment is often how difficult it is to keep. Thus, the time invested in learning and preparing to follow up on a commitment pays off in two ways—it makes it easier to accomplish a complicated task and it also reinforces the strength of your commitment.
The well attended safety Desert Preservation Initiative workshop conducted by Ivins City Parks Superintendent Joseph Rawlinson May 13 offered critical advice on using the equipment needed to accomplish DPI’s goal of removing the highly flammable invasive tamarisk. Addressing key safety procedures and practices, Rawlinson led the group through ways to increase their efficiency and effectiveness, thereby making it easier to maintain their commitment to this work.
The key theme of the day was the safety principles and procedures that define all that DPI does. Rawlinson stressed that the person who is operating a piece of equipment is in charge. And, as DPI President Chuck Warren says, “As with any endeavor, such as marriage, you really don’t know on many levels what it is about until you are up to your knees in the weeds. And that is true of DPI’s efforts to deal with tamarisk. All of those participating in the experience of DPI have to appreciate the complexities and simplicities of this community building process. The safety culture is an important aspect of what we do.”
reminded the group, “It can be easy to be lax when you’ve done this work before,” which is why the creation of a culture of safety is vital. That would include daily reviews of safety standards and practices on the job.
Rawlinson covered a wide range of topics, from personal protective equipment (PPE) to the types of equipment typically used, how to maintain such equipment and how to use it properly. This included safety glasses and hearing protection, as well as clothing and shoes. He covered loppers, axes, and chain saws and reciprocating saws, among others, carefully reviewing safety mechanisms and equipment operations for each tool.
DPI board member Sara Dupre found that “These safety demonstrations are critical for new and seasoned DPI volunteers for the reminder of keeping safety a priority for ourselves and our other volunteers next to us on the site.” Volunteer Randy Wright, a fire fighter for 35 years, supports the good work of DPI in “eradicating invasive species and reducing fire hazards.” Noting that “Safety is everybody’s responsibility,” he found Joseph Rawlinson’s presentation “excellent.”
Rawlinson plans a follow-up workshop in the fall when he will bring a park crew to demonstrate safe removal procedures.
Ivins City Parks Superintendent and Certified Arborist Joseph Rawlinson demonstrated safe use and handling of a wide variety of cutting and trimming equipment.
Have you always wanted to get involved in our community but aren’t sure how? Good news – a small team of volunteers is working on creating a volunteer database, connecting interested residents like you to the amazing groups that help make Ivins such a great place.
Join us in shaping our vibrant community through volunteerism. Every contribution counts, whether you have an hour or a weekend to spare. Your involvement makes a difference in making Ivins even greater.
We invite you to play an active role in our community’s future. Whether you’re passionate about parks, local events, or public services, there’s a place for you in the Ivins Volunteer Program. Already volunteering? We need you in the database, too! Please fill out our form to help match your skills with those of organizations that need you. Filling out the form doesn’t commit you to any of these organizations or roles, but it does help us connect you with opportunities, and it gives volunteer groups/organizations a way to find you and reach out.
*The Ivins Inspired Volunteer Program is entirely a volunteer program not owned or operated by Ivins City in any manner.
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
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.
Bailee Mabe, Shelter Manager
474 North 200 West, Ivins
435-628-1049
Hours by appointment:
Monday – Saturday, 8am – 3 pm
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 SkyWe’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 is a completely private online website environment for all of the Kayenta Nextdoor neighborhoods. Special thanks to Ray Borg for being our fearless leader.
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)
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
215.805.0035 WEEZY@NANCYWEEZYFORMAN.COM
Desert Dermatology and Surgery
We are committed to offering you superior dermatological care in a safe, comfortable, and modern environment. Our highly skilled team of Board-Certified providers specialize in Dermatology, Mohs Surgery, and Dermatopathology, ensuring you receive expert care tailored to your unique needs.
Kayenta resident Dr. Christian Anderson DO, PharmD, FAOCD-CAQ Mohs, FASMS, FAAD has been dedicated to healthcare since 1985. He looks forward to making a lasting impact on the health and well-being of his community while navigating today’s complex healthcare landscape with a patient-centered approach.
Desert Dermatology and Surgery
(directly across the street from Rocky Vista University)
272 E Center St Suite 102
Ivins UT 84738
435-288-1311 work • 435-274-2958 fax
Convenient healthcare with Script Your Health Telemedicine and Rosanne Calure, CRNP
Kayenta homeowner Rosanne Calure is a certified adult nurse practitioner with 30 years of clinical experience. She specializes in primary care, urgent care, weight loss, ADHD, and women’s and men’s health. She currently operates her telemedicine practice and is licensed in Utah, Arizona, Nevada, Maryland, Washington, D.C., Massachusetts, and Virginia. Rosanne has a home in Kayenta and plans to make Kayenta her full-time residence early next year.
To learn more about Script Your Health and Rosanne Calure, CRNP, or if you have questions, call or text 888-507-4660. You can also visit her website link below for more information.
The mention or listing of specific Kayenta business and/or products or services herein is solely for informational purposes and does not imply endorsement by Kayenta Homes and Properties, Kayenta Development, or the Kayenta Connection, or our partners, nor discrimination against similar brands, products or services offered by Kayenta residents not mentioned.
The Kayenta Desert Arboretum is getting a new and beautiful look this spring. Over the last couple of months our faithful volunteers have been turning the arboretum in to an impressive Kayenta attraction including a variety of new desert plants, many new sculptures and upgraded landscaping. On your next visit to Xetava or the Center For the Arts be sure to take an extra few minutes to stroll through the pathways in the arboretum.
Your community arboretum was created, managed and improved by residents in Kayenta who consider it to be another special feature of the area we live in. If you want to see it grow we would love to welcome you in to our all volunteer organization. Just email or call Roger Head, rbhkayenta@gmail.com; 435-632-1814 for additional information.
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.
The Kayenta ACC meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month, 1:00 pm in the Theater for the Arts. 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 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 The Management Group (formerly, 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
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
Meetings the 2nd Monday of every month. For more details contact our bookclub
Email submissions / changes to Kayenta Connection 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. We do not accept advertisements for services or events other than those provided by a Kayenta resident who is advertising their business/service to our community. The KC supports promotion of businesses located within the Kayenta Art Village.
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.
Sign up for the Kayenta Connection. We will send you monthly reminders when our next issue of the Kayenta Connection is ready to view online. Sign up to stay connected.
If you know someone who would like to read a “hard copy” version of the Kayenta Connection, we are now providing a downloadable PDF. It can be printed on any personal printer. It is a low-resolution file to keep the file size manageable. It is a conversion from an online version, so some font sizes may be small. Print a few test pages first. Please note that it will require at least 25 to 30 sheets of paper.