The Taviawk HOA Annual Informational Meeting will be held March 1st 2024 at 10 am at the Ivins City Hall, 85 North Main Ivins, UT 84738.
The Annual SPHOA meeting of Members will be held in the Center for the Arts Kayenta March 9, 2024 12:00-1:30, preceded with 75 minutes of social time in the Center lobby).
February 28, 2024
OFFERING A SOLUTION
Matt Marten & Terry Marten, Kayenta Development, Kayenta Water Users (KWU)
Background:
For several years we have been making attempts with Ivins City and the WCWCD to work out details surrounding the proposed Dry Wash Reservoir. As time has passed, we have learned more about the proposed reservoir and have researched the many problematic issues it would produce. We do not believe it is an asset to Ivins in the proposed location. In fact, we believe it is a huge deficit. The proposed location of Dry Wash Reservoir falls short of its intended goals and presents endless costs and management issues. In short, the location is a bad fit in the middle of a planned residential area.
Issues at Hand
Land Degradation and Broken Agreements:
Based on geological information and known issues in other places, we foresee that the reservoir would cause the degradation and destabilization of adjacent properties, cause numerous problematic issues pointed out in other documents, negate three decades of City and private planning efforts, and eliminate expected transportation connections.
Additional Reservoir Costs:
Aside from the cost of the construction of a reservoir, the land that has already been acquired, and the cost of a water delivery system, we estimate the loss of at least an additional forty acres of land, representing over 100 buildable lots, due to the degradation and destabilization of our land. The estimated land affected would need to be purchased as part of the reservoir project. The estimated value is $5,000,000 to $8,000,000.
Alternative Solution to Reservoir Water and Gained Benefit of Natural Open Space
Alternative Solution:
To date, we have resisted litigation as others might have engaged in by now. We would rather come to an agreement with all parties creating a win, win, win outcome. Outlined here, we offer an alternative plan providing needed water to Ivins and maintaining the Dry Wash natural open space as an asset for Ivins and the enjoyment of open space for generations to come.
A Brief Water History, Missed Opportunities, and Alternative Solutions
Twenty-four years ago, Ivins was searching for more water resources to grow. Ivins had always been short on water relying on St. George to send water west to Ivins. By 2000, Kayenta was well established in the far west portion of Ivins and continued to grow at a steady pace with the water lease secured by Terry Marten twenty-two years earlier. The water was provided to Kayenta via the Ence Wells across Highway 91 near the Santa Clara River. Over two decades Marten formed KWU, Inc. and developed the water delivery system: pumps, pipes, and storage tanks to provide Kayenta residents with water.
Ivins search for water continued. The city started to take notice of the Kayenta’s private water system and the Ence Wells in dreams of tapping in. At one point, Ivins was considering the purchase of the entire system, but Marten was worried it might limit the future growth of Kayenta. He knew controlling the water right and system was key to the success of Kayenta.
Concerned, Marten started looking for additional water sources for Ivins to redirect the city’s focus on the Ence Wells.
North of Ivins near Dammeron Valley, Marten found 360 acre-feet of water plus a well, owned by RC Tolman. Tolman and Marten worked out a proposal for Ivins to purchase the water and develop a pipeline. The pipeline would require horizontal drilling to get the water from Dammeron to Ivins through Red Mountain. The project was difficult but not impossible. Ultimately, Ivins rejected the proposal.
D.I. Ranch/Beaver Dam Wash Water Right
By 2001, Marten learned the D. I. Ranch located on the Beaver Dam Wash 17 miles west of Ivins was being sold by Hyrum Smith. Water was plentiful on the property and an obvious resource if tapped into. Concurrently, the water district was building a pipeline from Gunlock to Ivins Reservoir. While working on easements with Ron Thompson of the water conservancy district, Marten was led to believe the D. I. Ranch water rights had been tied up by the district, but this was not the case. Upon inquiring, Marten learned the water right was being sold with the ranch.
This discovery was yet another water source for Ivins! Marten worked to tie up the water for Ivins. At the same time, Snow Canyon Parkway was being developed and the connection allowed a pipeline from Sand Hollow to be extended to Ivins. Suddenly it appeared Ivins would be swimming in water. Ivins was still pursuing the Kayenta water system (KWU) and wells and Marten had agreed to sell along with the city bonding to develop a pipeline from the D.I. Ranch to Ivins. Agreements were drawn and ready to close with the acceptance of the city council’s final ratification.
Marten had believed it was a done deal as this is what the city wanted but at the last moments, the city rejected the proposal in lieu of a seemingly easier solution. The council chose to enter into an agreement with the WCWCD to deliver water they controlled via the Snow Canyon Parkway pipeline being fed from Sand Hollow.
Marten notified Doug Westbrook at Dixie Title that the title insurance would not be necessary as the deal fell through. Marten and Westbrook were stunned the city turned down the opportunity for the water resource. With the water key to future growth, Westbrook assembled a few other partners, and they collectively purchased the ranch and water right.
The ranch has been held for over twenty years as an asset and water right. Today, it can help to offer a solution to the need. The only interest Terry Marten has had in maintaining the D. I. Ranch for two decades is to offer water security for Kayenta and Ivins.
Marten Offer to Ivins City
Gift of Dry Wash Open Space – 100 Acres plus* by Marten
Completing the intention that was established 30 years ago.
Details:
*Subject to Ivins City’s willingness and agreement to manage and protect the property as a natural open park space.
Marten Offer to Washington County Water Conservancy District
Helping to supply water to Ivins, D. I. Ranch/ Beaver Dam Wash water source would supplement the water need for Ivins in lieu of a reservoir in Dry Wash.
WCWCD would acquire the D. I. Ranch and Water Rights which would provide culinary quality water unburdened by the high mineral content of salts and pollutants. The cost would be far more economical than the construction and maintenance of the proposed Dry Wash reservoir.
Conclusion:
These offers present a viable solution for delivering fresh water to Ivins and maintains Dry Wash as an irreplaceable natural open space and a continuous trail system for Ivins. The cost of construction and land acquisition for the reservoir in Dry Wash along with the ongoing maintenance issues and cost of delivery far outweighs its benefits. The cost associated with delivering water from D.I. Ranch/Beaver Dam Wash would be far more economical and deliver fresh water vs. brackish water to Ivins.
According to the Ivins City Water Conservation Plan, our current population uses 4, 400 acre-feet of water. When the city is fully developed with a population reaching 19,500 the water need equates to 5, 200 acre-feet of water. The need calls for an additional 800 acre-feet of water over the next 20-40 years. This need is easily supplied by our proposals. Additionally, it responds to the water need, addressing health, welfare and safety, as it was originally presented to the 2021 City Council.
Ivins is a special place surrounded by stunning scenery and natural habitat. Living in balance with our environment should be of great importance to Ivins. Living in an arid environment, conservation has always been key to maintaining this balance. Let Ivins be the example of how to live in the desert by maintaining our natural open spaces and using them to our advantage rather the creation of costly and unsustainable situations. Modest sustainable growth over time and thoughtful development that conserves water are key to success.
Tickets are still available but single ticket prices increase after March 1
1 ticket – $150 (Before March 1st) $175 (After March 1st)
1 Table (Six Seats) – $1,000
Call the Box Office for more information and to secure your tickets before the ticket price increase.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of chalk art at the annual Street Painting Festival presented by the Center for the Arts at Kayenta. The 2024 theme, Colors of the Desert, will showcase the incredible talents of professional street painting artists from the region and students throughout Washington County and surrounding counties. Witness the magic unfold as these artists bring the desert hues to life right before your eyes!
Join us over the weekend to take in the views (on the sidewalk and beyond),
and enjoy food trucks, live music, and family fun.
We’re taking “Colors of the Desert” to the next level! Join us on April 6, 2024, for our first-ever Kayenta Color Run 5K!
Participants of all ages and abilities can run-walk-stroll through 3.1 miles of our beautiful Kayenta landscape. Each color stop during the race will feature powdered paint stations to allow each participant to end the race with a colorful masterpiece! The fun doesn’t stop at the finish line, make sure to join us for a fabulous DANCE PARTY after the race!
Registration: $35 (limited availability!) Go to our website for more information.
Each participant will receive a race t-shirt and a swag bag filled with surprises!
We’re thrilled to introduce First Fridays at Kayenta, launching March 1 and happening on the first Friday of every month in 2024! Enjoy live music, food, and fun in the Kayenta Art Village beginning at 5:30pm, and a special screening from DOCUTAH at 7:30 pm.
The next Kayenta Center for the Arts show, “Impressions on Paper”, will be accepting entries on Wednesday, March 27th from 3 – 6 p.m. The world of prints includes screenprints, linocuts, intaglio, collagraphy and even woodcuts! AND – the new format reception on Friday, April 5th will be a PARTY – music, wine, and a special film previews. So PRINT on and enter this excellent show! All must-read info is at the link below. We can’t wait to see what you CREATE!
“Thistle” by Pat Legan
Center for the Arts at Kayenta to Receive $25,000 Grant from the National Endowment for the Arts [Ivins, UT]— The Center for the Arts at Kayenta is pleased to announce it has been approved by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) for a Grants for Arts Projects award of $25,000.
“The NEA is delighted to announce this grant to The Center for the Arts at Kayenta, which is helping contribute to the strength and well-being of the arts sector and local community,” said National Endowment for the Arts Chair Maria Rosario Jackson, PhD. “We are pleased to be able to support this community and help create an environment where all people have the opportunity to live artful lives.”
“This recognition from the NEA is coming at a spectacular time for us at the Center for the Arts at Kayenta,” said Executive Director Miranda Wright. “Over the past twelve months, we have activated a national network of artists and relationships with other venues, enabling us to bring world-class talent, present performances not otherwise found in our region, and nurture the incredible community of local artists here in Washington County. We are well on our way toward becoming Southern Utah’s premiere multi-disciplinary arts presenter, and this is being recognized by national arts partners and organizations.”
This grant will support the Kayenta New Play Lab, an opportunity for local and national playwrights, actors, and theater directors to develop new plays for today’s audiences. In total, the NEA will award 958 Grants for Arts Projects awards totaling more than $27.1 million that were announced as part of its first round of fiscal year 2024 grants.
The Kayenta New Play Lab is a unique opportunity for theater artists and audiences to converge to create and witness the development of new work. Six playwrights will be selected to participate in this August program by a panel of local and nationally-recognized experts. Local playwrights will be joined by playwrights from major theater centers across the country. Following a 10-day development residency, each play will be presented as a staged reading for our summer audiences, followed by engaging discussions and opportunities to meet the artists.
This dynamic New Play Lab fosters creativity, connection, and national collaboration. Wright adds, “Supporting the creation and development of new work is a vital piece of our vision at the Center for the Arts at Kayenta. Our New Play Lab aims to support artists – both locally and nationally – as they tell the stories of the past, present, and future, for the benefit of us all, as we continue to learn and grow into the ever changing world around us.”
For more information on other projects included in the NEA’s grant announcement, visit arts.gov/news.
Art for Everybody Regional Premiere
The Center for the Arts at Kayenta is thrilled to partner with DOCUTAH on a new monthly film series. DOCUTAH seeks to open hearts and minds to the world through beautifully crafted stories on film, promoting education while creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and community.
Thomas Kinkade’s landscapes made him the most collected and despised painter ever. After his shocking death, his family discovers a vault of unseen paintings that reveal a complex artist whose life and work embody our divided America.
Bach: The Art of Fugue
Soirée Musicale features top local musicians and guest professionals from across the Western region tackling some of the most advanced and inspiring classical music in the repertoire. Our Spring series is under the direction of Jason Bonham, esteemed musician and principle violist with Las Vegas Philharmonic.
Featuring: Jameson Cooper (violin), Urs Rutishauser (violin), Jason Bonham (viola), Evgeny Tonkha (cello), Robert Matheson (bass), Stephanie Hoernes (piano).
Martha Scanlan & Jon Neufeld
Anyone familiar with Martha Scanlan and Jon Neufeld’s unique alchemy on stage will not be surprised by the sense of being taken into the moment – their shows are in and of themselves a journey of improvisation; the way Jon Neufeld’s brilliant innovative guitar playing weaves effortlessly around Martha’s timeless songwriting is simply magical. While currents of deep Appalachian mountain valleys and vast Montana landscapes wind through Martha’s songs, it’s really the accessibility and intimacy that defines them, and how they seem to find their way into soundtracks by TBone Burnett, pages of celebrated American novelists like Rick Bass and Joyce Carol Oates, shared mixes by Emmy Lou Harris, covers by roots musicians from Sarah Jarosz to Andrew Marlin to Solas, quiet song circles and camp fires.
DaEun Jung: BYOUL|NORRI
BYOUL|NORRI by Los Angeles-based choreographer DaEun Jung features Pansori song (Korean folk opera), original electronic beats, irregular folk rhythms, Hangul (Korean alphabet system), and chance operation that deconstructs, reinterprets and transforms classical Korean dance. The hour-long concert is performed in two parts, Byoul (별): “star,” a solo performance by the Choreographer herself, and Norri (놀이): “play’, a four part ensemble work.
In her dances, DaEun Jung connects different times and spaces together across cultures and geographies. Her work has redefined the principle, form, structure, and function of Korean classical and folk dance in multicultural settings.
On a cold, wet wintry afternoon on February 1st, almost 200 Kayenta residents braved the elements and made their way towards the Center for the Arts to participate in the Winter Warm-Up Celebration, sponsored by Kayenta Homes & Properties. Over the past several years, this opportunity to meet mid-winter and reconnect with neighbors has become one of the most anticipated and enjoyable events of the year in Kayenta. Residents enjoyed our “world famous” hot chocolate bar (which must be experienced to be believed!) as well as scrumptious hors d’oeuvres including baked brie with house-made carrot ginger marmalade, smokey corn soup shooters with creme fraiche and tortilla chips, cilantro chicken meatballs with spicy Asian slaw, and much more. Special thanks to Victoria Topham and Petite Feast, as usual, for providing her typical 5-star culinary treats! And to those who chose to share the afternoon with us…thank you. We hope to see you all again next year.
Jeff Sproul, Principal Broker
Steve McAllister & Naomi Doyle, Sales Agents
435-628-7234 www.kayentahomes.com
Janell Bassett, Editor
Like many here, Rob and Mary Goodman lived many lives before settling in Kayenta. They began as college sweethearts at the University of Minnesota. Rob studied for pre-med before serving in Vietnam, bringing home two Purple Hearts and a host of other medals. Changed by his military experience, and listening to his new wife’s sage advice, he decided to follow his dream of a life in the theater. At the same time, both committed to a life goal of bringing hope and peace to others.
To earn the funds necessary to “reboot” their direction, the Goodmans bought a small resort in Northern Minnesota. Rob also became the Navigator and Medical Officer of the Transworld Snowmobile Expedition on which seven adventurers rode 5,000 miles from Minneapolis to Devon Island in the middle of the Artic Ocean. Mary ran the business and cared for their infant daughter.
Rob went back to school. They had a son. Mary managed a country club and, indicative of the teamwork that defines this couple, “we both raised the two children.” Rob completed his MFA in Directing Theater at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill before taking a theater position there. Then they moved to Wisconsin where Rob became Resident Director of the Milwaukee Repertory Theater.
Mary put her business and management experience to work as Director of Planning and Hospitality for the banquet facility at the Milwaukee Performing Arts Center. In 1987, when the Milwaukee Repertory Theater was leaving the Performing Arts Center to move into a new home, Rob was offered the opportunity to form a new company to fill the soon empty theater.
It was risky, not a very secure job with two teens and now two infants at home. To make matters worse, the Performing Arts Center’s management wanted a professional children’s theater, a genre Rob had never read or directed. But Mary knew Rob always wanted his own theater and had the final vote. This turned out to be their second-best decision. The first? Their marriage.
Rob founded First Stage Milwaukee, a professional theater dedicated to the empowerment and education of young people through participation in the arts. Over the next 30 years Mary was also involved as a community volunteer working on galas, fundraisers, and cast parties.
Never ones to do just one thing, the Goodmans also found their spiritual lives moving into fourth gear. Mary was raised a Catholic, so Rob joined the Church, attended seminary and was ordained a Permanent Deacon in 1990, creating another partnership between the couple. Mary attended the same classes and worked in the same ministries from soup kitchens to hospital visits. When Rob was appointed to lead the Renewal and Evangelization Office Mary changed jobs to manage that office. Later, she worked for Partners Advancing Values in Education developing leadership programs. However, their most fulfilling ministry, Rob reports, “was working hand-in-hand with the Acoli people of Northern Uganda helping them rebuild their lives after a 20-year war had devastated the land, the villages, and the people.”
In 2016, an internet search for a place to retire resulted in a first ever visit to Utah. After a walk in Snow Canyon, Mary said, “OK. This is it! Let’s move.” Embracing the arts as always, Rob soon joined the Kayenta Arts Foundation Board of Directors, serving over the years as Chair Elect, Chair, Past Chair, and Treasurer. He remains on the Board today while Mary volunteers with the annual gala and other fundraising events. With four children and grandchildren spread across the country they travel a lot; in Kayenta enjoy hiking, biking, cardio dance (only Mary!), star gazing and, of course, a glass of good wine with friends.
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.
Date: February 29, 11:30am
We are pleased to host Lee Hughes who will be presenting “Rare Plants of our Desert Region”. Lee has a degree in Range Management and Fisheries and became an expert in the abundant biological diversity of the area during the 33 years as a field manager for the Bureau of Land Management. Please bring a brown bag lunch and join us at the Center For The Arts in Kayenta at 11:30AM on February 29. This presentation is free to the public, however seating is limited. To reserve a seat please email Roger Head in advance at rbhkayenta@gmail.com.
Mike Scott, Council Member
Dry Wash Reservoir
Were you at the February 21st Talkabout that focused on Dry Wash Reservoir? Do you think it was productive? I do. It was well attended, and residents asked excellent questions and brought up relevant issues. Did we reach an agreement on anything? No. Nothing.
The Water Conservancy District came ready to tell its story. Residents came ready to tell their story. So, the Talkabout didn’t score high on the “listening” scale. But it was an important milestone because community concerns were clearly voiced. As a result, Mayor Hart is going to hold a series of resident work meetings at City Hall in the next couple of months to figure out the best course of action. No dates are set yet. I’ll keep you posted.
Growing Water Smart
Join water conservation specialists from Utah State University headed by Professor Kelly Kopp at a Talkabout on Wednesday, March 20th, 7:00 P.M., at Rocky Vista University. Professor Kopp is the Director of their Center for Water Efficient Landscaping (https://extension.usu.edu/cwel/).
I spent three days with her in Cedar City last month at a “Growing Water Smart in Southwest Utah” workshop. She knows her stuff, so it will be both an enjoyable evening and informative. Even if you know all there is to know about water efficient landscaping, come and learn about her latest research. This is an opportunity to learn something new.
But wait… there’s more! Professor Kopp and her team will arrive earlier in the day to conduct a training session at City Hall at 3pm for staff and others who may be interested. You are invited. They will specifically focus on residential irrigation standards for us to hopefully adopt and discuss the best plants and grasses to use to conserve water in our desert setting.
What Else Is Going On?
On the Public Safety front, Ivins runs the Police Department for Santa Clara and Ivins and Santa Clara runs Fire/EMS for both cities. There was scary information about Fire/EMS cutbacks on social media a week or so ago. Most of it was incorrect but it caught us off-guard. We’re working with Santa Clara to make sure we maintain a high-quality level of service. More information later.
The City Council is working on an update to our General Plan. The plan is more than the legal underpinning for land use decisions; it is a vision about how a community will grow, reflecting community priorities and values while shaping the future. There will be at least one public hearing before we finalize the plan. That’s probably a few months away. But that doesn’t mean you need to wait to share your ideas. In fact, I hope you don’t wait.
Last month Mayor Hart created an Open Space Committee to come up with strategies to protect more open space in the city. He also revitalized the city’s Affordable Housing Task Force.
More City Information
I try to keep these articles relatively concise. Not doing too well at that. It’s frustrating because there’s so much to discuss. So, please email me at Mike@MikeScott4Ivins.com for more information about these and other Ivins issues. Also, please tell me what issues in Ivins matter to you. Visit my website at www.MikeScott4Ivins.com for regular updates and now you can also add your comments to my articles.
MakeSpace is honored to welcome Linda Tay’nahza back to Southern Utah! The love of printmaking has been Linda Tay’nahza’s focus for more than 30 years. She received a BS degree in Art Education from Northern Arizona University and completed graduate work in Art Education at the University of Nevada. Her life in the mountains, living in Northern Arizona, and the Navajo Nation have strongly influenced her work. Linda has received numerous awards and her art is part of the permanent collections at several universities and museums. She has taught on all levels from early childhood through adult education for 40 years and loves teaching! Experience this amazing class in March. The details are noted below:
Time: 10 am – 3:30 pm
Instructor: Linda Tay’nahza
Linda will lead process demonstrations, providing students with inspiration to mix and match varied applications including: Additive and subtractive, Chine Colle,’ blended rolls, bleed prints, ghost prints and more. The monotype is a simple, organic direct image transfer form of printmaking. A highly creative process, interaction between participants is always fun and the studio is abuzz in a way that only Linda can entice! No previous art experience is necessary.
Time: TU 10 – 2 pm, WED 10 – 12
Instructor: Joyce Casey
Great Class for beginners. Join us for a two-day artistic adventure in creating your own river rock mosaic! In this hands-on workshop, you will learn of the various methods, materials, and safety essentials required to successfully create your own composition in glass. Our first day will be spent in the design and creation phase. Joyce will supply a variety of patterns to choose from, or you may bring your own simple design. The second day will be spent grouting and finishing your piece. No experience is necessary, and all supplies are included!
Time: 10 am – 2 pm
Instructor: Deanna Millecam
Enjoy an art-filled morning with a trip to Fire Lake to take in our beautiful surroundings and paint from nature with watercolor! Deena will demonstrate techniques and approaches to help you improve your painting and composition skills. The day will consist of instructor demonstrations, plenty of painting time with individually tailored guidance, as well as a group critique at the end. Come ready to paint and relax! All ability levels are welcome.
Information & Class Registration
And, while you are there, register your email to receive monthly updates on classes.
Coyote Tales began with a delightful story told by Ivins resident Lois Andrews. Her tale began with a chance meeting of a charming cowboy in line at the liquor store. As she continued, she skillfully wove in the reality of divorce and the awkwardness of online dating. There was something remarkable in her swagger on stage, alone at the mic, telling a room full of strangers her story. It was pure magic.
Local residents Brandon Bruce, Matthew Chaison and John Harrison all recounted heartbreaking experiences that they eventually made peace with, and invited storyteller and author Kim Foster, shared a story of her unlikely friendship with a young, homeless person living on the streets of Las Vegas. Through her inspired telling, she gently reminded us of the beauty and grace that can be found by treating others with compassion and respect. The evening ended on a high note with an uplifting tale of perseverance. A Zen Master prophesied that local artist Matt Clark would be destined for greatness. Through Matt’s masterful telling, it is evident that the prediction has come true.
Outside Magazine was even on hand to record David Lindes’ poignant story and original song ‘Gold in the Ashes’ for broadcast on their popular podcast, OUTSIDE. The episode is expected to air mid-March. Coyote Tales will post the link on our website as soon as the date is set. And of course, all of the evening’s stories will be posted on the Coyote Tales website story archive @ https://coyotetalesstories.com/story-archives/
Theater goers were treated to toe-tapping bluegrass music provided by Stillhouse Road and a pre-event social hosted by the generous folks at Kayenta Homes and Properties and Petite Feast. Naomi and Steve from KH&P deftly manned the bar with their usual charm; cheerfully chatting with theater goers while pouring. Behind the scenes, Miranda Wright and the staff at CFAK executed every aspect of production with ease and professionalism. Coyote Tales surely wouldn’t happen without their involvement.
Coyote Tales believes that by sharing our stories and listening to our neighbors we help foster a better understanding, respect and compassion for other viewpoints. I am deeply grateful for this community’s embrace of Coyote Tales and their belief in the power of sharing our stories. Our next event is scheduled for May 10th at The Center for the Arts at Kayenta. The evening’s theme is, GIFT. If you think you have a story to share, please contact me @ coyotetalescontact@gmail.com.
Everyone has a story – Victoria
We are grateful for in-kind support from Desert Dweller Realty, SBDance and The INN at Santa Clara. Coyote Tales events are funded by Petite Feast, Kayenta Homes and Properties and Utah Division of Arts and Museums. All proceeds from live Coyote Tales events have benefitted local nonprofits or have been FREE.
Many thanks to Alan Holben for his beautiful photographs.
HORS D’OEUVRE
ROASTED TOMATO HUMMUS WITH HOUSE BAKED PITA CRISPS
BAKED BRIE CROSTINI WITH CARROT GINGER MARMALADE
BEET HONEY LIME SPRITZ
FIRST COURSE
PARMESAN AND SPRING GARLIC TART WITH PEA SHOOTS AND LEMON
SECOND COURSE
CHARRED BROCCOLINI WITH HAZELNUTS, GRAPES, AND FETA
ENTREE
ROASTED PORK TENDERLOIN WITH APPLE PUREE, BRAISED FENNEL AND A RED WINE REDUCTION
DESSERT
RHUBARB AND VANILLA CUSTARD PANNA COTTA WITH ALMOND SABLES AND POACHED RHUBARB COMPOTE AND WHITE CHOCOLATE POPCORN PEARLS
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.
“The menu was literally a poem. The meal was sheer poetry. A meal of fond memories.” – Brent Smith
“Fabulous. Creative. Artistic. Fun! Petite Feast Dinner Club is the best restaurant in Southern Utah.” – Cindy Smith
“A beautiful mélange of color, flavor, and creativity” – Angela Drabont
Bang Bang Shrimp is a popular restaurant dish that morphed into an internet sensation a few years ago. The recipe is in no way authentic to its namesake, but it is surprisingly delicious nonetheless. Traditionally made with chicken, the original recipe earned its name from the bang, bang sound of the butcher chopping the meat into bite-sized pieces for the popular Asian street snack. Inspired by the dish’s lively complexity, the clever chefs at Bonefish Grill in Florida took the idea and ran with it; subbing in shrimp for chicken and adding an easy to make mayonnaise-based sauce. The result was the restaurant’s signature starter that remains a TikTok copycat recipe sensation to this day. In most of these preparations, the shrimp is deep fried and then tossed in the pungent, sweet & spicy ‘bang bang’ sauce. It is tasty, but definitely a high calorie splurge.
So, for this month’s VDP, I decided to rework Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp into a more approachable and satisfying weeknight noodle dish. By 86ing the deep fry in favor of a quick pan sear and revamping the mayo-based sauce, I was able to cut calories while still keeping all the bold flavor that the original dish is known for. I added thick, chewy udon noodles which when topped with a tumble of garnishes, round out the dish nicely and transform the shrimp from tasty bar snack to full-fledged dinner. But please feel free to omit the noodles if you prefer a low-carb version – the shrimp is just as good tossed in the sauce and served over a bright salad of crisp greens, shredded carrot, sliced radish, and diced cucumber. You can even roll the sauced shrimp in a flour tortilla with shredded cabbage and fresh cilantro for an easy hand-held lunch. Don’t forget to serve the extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Tim and Judy thought a crisp, acidic Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would work well with this dish. Although Tim added, an off-dry Riesling could work well and compliment the sweetness of the dish.
If you have not joined the Virtual Dinner Party but would like to dine with us, please prepare this recipe – or any other – and share it with your family, friends and neighbors. It is our group’s firm belief that by preparing something good to eat and sharing it with those we love, we are participating in one of life’s greatest joys. The connection, community and good will that come from it fill us with joy, hope and gratitude. I hope you all enjoy it as much as I do.
Thanks for coming to the party. Cook On! – Victoria
BANG BANG SHRIMP WITH UDON NOODLES
INGREDIENTS:
6 oz. Udon noodles
1 lb. medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 T minced garlic,
1 t smoked paprika
1 t freshly black pepper,
1 T vegetable oil
1 C coconut milk
⅓ C mayonnaise (high quality store bought or homemade)
¼ C sweet chili sauce (available in any grocery store) or substitute 3 T honey
1 T minced ginger
2 t minced lime zest
2 T Sriracha (or to taste)
juice of ½ lime
2 T chopped cilantro
Garnish: chopped peanuts, cilantro and scallions
METHOD:
Cook udon noodles in a pot of boiling salted water according to package directions; drain and set aside.
Toss shrimp with garlic, paprika, and black pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink but still tender and moist. Remove from heat and transfer shrimp to a plate.
In same skillet whisk together coconut milk, mayonnaise, chili sauce, ginger, zest, Sriracha. Mix well and bring up to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer sauce until slightly thickened. Stir in lime juice.
Add udon noodles, cooked shrimp, and cilantro and heat through. Place on serving platter and garnish with peanuts, cilantro and scallion.
Serves 2 with leftovers
CAFE 11-5 • TAPAS+BAR 4-8
CAFE 11-8 • TAPAS+BAR 4-9
CAFE 9-8 (brunch ‘til Noon) • TAPAS+BAR 4-9
CAFE 9-8 (brunch ‘til Noon) • TAPAS+BAR 4-8
Elevate Studio • 435-632-1381
jyfitness@me.com
Class size is limited and subject to change.
Pre-registration is required. Contact John before attending your first class.
Be happy. Be healthy. Have a blast!
ELEVATE!
Winter’s cooler weather is an invitation to slow down and reconnect with the structure of scheduled classes.
We will pick up where we left off: Noticing the breath, paying attention to the body, and focusing the mind.
Class Schedule
9:30 – 10:45 Tuesday: Vigorous Vinyasa
9:30 – 10:45 Wednesday: Relaxing Yin/Stretch
9:30 – 10:45 Thursday: Vigorous Vinyasa
Please contact me for more information.
Pre-registration is required.
Karen Kushner (E-RYT 500)
978-621-0499
Classes are $15 • Punch cards are available for $75 (5 classes)
No sign-up is required!
Sacred Healing Classes are offered one Saturday morning/month.
2 Hour Classes include:
Sacred Tea Ceremony
Meditation • Yoga
Email me for a list of upcoming classes and dates.
Ask about our add-ons to enhance your treatment!
Please call or text to schedule or with any questions! Please remember that I am usually booked at least 2 weeks out.
Namaste, Aly Hansen
Aly is now a certified Insominia Coach.
Sacred Sleep CoachFor a full list of Spa Treatments visit:
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 DentonMarch 18, 2024
We will be going to the Ghost Town of Gold Butte and the Devil’s Throat Sink Hole southwest of Mesquite Nevada. Inside Gold Butte National Monument. Full Day Trip. Bring a lunch. 20 miles of dirt road. Meet at t he Kayenta Design Center at 9 am Monday, March 18, 2024.
For details contact Charles Dillier at 435-656-1956
The Desert Rose Labyrinth & Sculpture Garden is a community resource with the intention that all who walk the labyrinth will be blessed with peace, comfort, and open hearts. The Labyrinth is maintained and funded by Kayenta volunteers. Please be respectful and leave only footprints. For more information or to make group reservations, please contact:
Cheryl Collins
Email Cheryl
Beth Hopwood
Email Beth
Desert Rose Labyrinth
792 Kayenta Pkwy, Ivins UT
Another important step in the long-standing relationship between the Santa Clara-Ivins Fire & Rescue department and the Desert Preservation Initiative (DPI) took place when DPI President Chuck Warren gave Fire Captain Andrew Parker and Battalion Chief Con Fulde a tour of Tamarisk removal work in Kayenta.
DPI representatives Terrence Walters and Kamal Khan joined Warren in showing the fire officials DPI’s continuing work on Tamarisk removal and treatment, “giving them an opportunity to respond to the level and expertise we have developed in our projects,” says Warren. “We are doing it right,” he says, as DPI’s work results in greatly reducing the fire risk to homes and fuel load in the washes. Chief Parker agreed, commenting, “This is perfect.”
One of the key changes is how DPI handles cut debris, now leaving debris on site except in a few cases, for example when there is not good placement out of sight or where runoff during heavy rains could move debris. (Big trunks go to the Southwest Woodturners Club). While debris could burn and even smolder for days, the danger is totally different from that posed by standing Tamarisk trees. In addition, Fulde added, “debris left on site reduces erosion problems and adds nutrients to the soil.” “This is a restatement of the basis for our practice,” Warren says.
A shared purpose—reducing wildfire risk—is the basis for the on-going cooperative relationship between the non-profit and the government agency. As Chief Parker told Warren in a 2022 interview reported in the Shonto Pointers newsletter, the local area in the greatest fire danger is the western side of Ivins, in the communities of Kayenta and Indigo Trails and the area southwest of Highway 91. “We can mitigate a fire much quicker in town,” Parker said, noting that Indigo Trails, being just off the highway, is more accessible than Kayenta. Because Tamarisk burns quickly and hot, it is a clear fire risk. Parker agreed that Tamarisk in the Kayenta Wash create a particularly vulnerable area.
Building on that initial contact, Warren and Parker continue to interact at city council meetings, where Parker often refers to DPI during his presentations to city council, noting, Warren reports, “the work we are doing to reduce fire risk.” Further discussions have included exploration of pursuing grants to fund DPI’s work, which would lessen the financial burden on the fire department, and the possibility of the fire department capturing drone footage of where Tamarisk has been removed so far.
On the recent tour, the fire department officials also visited the Tamarisk debris corral; discussions are underway for the department to assist in burning accumulated Tamarisk debris in the coming months. Residents will be notified in advance of burn dates.
“We are deeply appreciative of the fire department’s support and advice,” says Warren, “at the same time they welcome our work as good for the community and important to reducing the risk of fire. It’s definitely a win/win partnership.”
Won’t you join us? If you are interested in learning more, volunteering, or having a review of invasive plants on your property, please contact Chuck Warren, president, (chuckwarren222@ gmail.com) or Dan Beck, volunteer coordinator (danbeck2@me.com).
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
Stockings filled with treats were hung from each dog kennel and cat room at the shelter. Gifts of toys, cat litter, and cat food were placed under the Christmas tree. PAWS, BAM, New Start K9, Jackson Day Foundation, RSQ and One More Chance animal rescues esch received a gift card to use as needed in support of the important work they do on behalf of homeless animals.
Your donations to INKAS help finance our efforts to provide resources for homeless animals, and are tax deductible. Visit us at www.inkas4pets.org to learn more about the work that we do.
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)
Happy2Help is an in-home personal concierge service.
Services Include:
• Personal Shopping
• Health Recovery Assistance
• Meal Prep
• Snowbird Service
• Home Organization
• Event Assistance
Call or email Andrea, your trustworthy neighbor at
401-258-9772
Good Medicine Intuitive Skin Care
Good Medicine Beauty Lab is a small women-owned company, that creates high-quality face and skincare products. The products are all hand-crafted in our Kayenta lab, from ethically sourced ingredients and wild desert botanicals.
• Unique face and body care products.
• Safe, natural, and locally sourced wild botanical ingredients
Stop by and test all our products, we will be open every day from 9-5!
Kayenta Art Village: 873 Coyote Gulch Ct. Suite C, walk towards the Center for the Arts & look for the bright purple door.
435-656-5240
Is your Home dated, and in desperate need of a complete makeover? I can completely update the look and feel of your home without costly remodeling. I can help with affordable solutions that will transform your space. You will have a home that is organized, more current, and looks beautiful.
Are you building a New Home and need the finishing Touches? I can help with all the decorative touches, from home furnishings to tile, paint & more!
Happy Up Your Home with Home Stylist Nancy Weezy Forman, Kayenta Resident
215.8050035 WEEZY@NANCYWEEZYFORMAN.COM
Happy Up Your HomeTake advantage of our comfortable trails when you visit the Kayenta Art Village. From March through June, the desert plants as nature displays the colors of indigo, reds, orange, and yellow.
As always, we thank the many volunteers who have spent many hours maintaining and improving these great Kayenta attractions. If you would like to join us and become part of the team, please contact Roger Head, at (435) 632-1814 or rbhkayenta@gmail.com.
Please visit the Kayenta HOA website ACC tab for Landscaping documentation. Select Landscaping Regulations Rev 2017 and Landscaping Review Steps 2017.
The Kayenta ACC meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month, 2:00 pm in the Kayenta Community Room. A hard copy of the agenda is posted in the Kayenta Homes & Properties office the Thursday before the meeting.
Questions? Ellen Nathan
Phone: 435-652-8333
Email EllenShonto Point HOA Meetings
The Shonto HOA Board meets regularly during the year avoiding some summer months. All meetings are from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM on the third Wednesday of the month in the Theatre for the Arts, located in the Kayenta Art Village.
Taviawk 2023 HOA Board Meetings
The Board plans to meet on the Thursday after the ACC meeting (which is the 3rd Tuesday of each month) bi-monthly at 9:30 am at F1 Property Management.
The Kayenta Concept
The Kayenta Concept is a philosophy that has steered the development of our exceptional community since its inception. The standards that underlie that concept are enforced by the Architectural Control Committee (ACC), which serves both the Shonto Point and Taviawk HOAs. The pre-amble to the 2021 ACC Handbook lays out the basics of the architectural rules that have been followed to create the homes and land-scape we live in.
When your home was designed the Kayenta Concept was front and center. The ACC reviewed your design to evaluate whether it followed the rules, and the ACC monitored construction of your home through landscaping and occupation, again, reviewing adherence to design and construction standards. When you received your occupancy permit and construction deposit refund from the ACC, on-going compliance with the Kayenta Con-cept became the responsibility of your HOA Board of Directors. Your Board has the authority to perpetuate the Kayenta Concept into the future and gladly accepts that role.
The Kayenta Concept is worth reviewing to remind us that what we have here has only happened because of the rules Kayenta developer Terry Marten set up to own, build and live in Kayenta. His vision and the governing documents he developed to achieve and maintain that vision established the Kayenta HOAs and gave them the responsibility and authority to enforce the CC&Rs that underlie the beauty and value we all enjoy
2023 Photos HERE
THIS EVENT WILL SELL OUT, SO REGISTER EARLY TO GUARANTEE YOUR ENTRY & SOUVENIR PIG NOSE!
Every participant will receive a Hog and Jog-Shirt, Bacon, Bacon Bits, Bacon topped Donuts, and the AMAZING Hog and Jog Finisher medal. Also, If you are one of the first 500 people to register you will receive an official Hog & Jog Pig Nose to wear during the event!!
Be sure to register early. People who register within 7 days leading up to the event, are not guaranteed a shirt on race day. We will provide you a shirt, but you may not receive one on race day.
Stick around for bacon doughnuts, and bacon bits, prizes, and giveaways from our amazing sponsors, including $25 gift cards from St. George Running Center to 4 runners with the BEST BACON COSTUME!
Packet pickup will be Friday from 3pm-7pm at the St George Running Center (Directions to packet pick up) and 7:15 am-7:45 am on Saturday morning before the race at the starting line.
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
The Kayenta Weavers group meets weekly to enjoy the limitless creativity of off-loom weaving.
For information contact Katie
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.
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.