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Sep 12
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Car Seat Safety: Is Your Child’s Seat Installed Correctly?

By From Our Partners

 AAA encourages all caregivers to have car seats inspected by certified car seat technicians

As parents and caregivers, we all want to protect our children. However, even with the best intentions, car seat safety can often be overlooked. 

According to the National Digital Car Seat Check database, only one in four car seats are correctly installed. This statistic aligns with the findings from a consumer survey done by AAA Utah and the National Safety Council, that revealed only one in five caretakers seek expert help for car seat installation, something AAA offers at no charge, by way of certified employee technicians at many of their local offices.

Image courtesy of AAA Insurance.

Top Car Seat Mistakes to Avoid

Safety experts have identified three common mistakes to avoid: 

  1. The Wiggle Test. If your car seat moves around too much, it’s probably not installed securely. A properly installed seat should remain stable with minimal movement when tested. A loose seat may fail to protect a child during a collision.

  2. The Overlooked Strap. For forward-facing seats, an additional strap, known as the tether, is crucial. The tether prevents the seat from tilting forward in a crash, which significantly reduces the risk of head and neck injuries. Unfortunately, many caregivers forget to use it.

  3. The Pinch Check. When securing your child in the seat, ensure the harness straps are snug. A good rule of thumb? Use your thumb! A simple way to test this is by trying to pinch the strap material at armpit level. If you can pinch any excess, the strap is too loose. If you can’t it’s likely tight enough.

The fact that you bought a car seat means you want the best for the child you care for. Making sure it’s installed correctly can help you reach that goal. 120,000 children were injured in car crashes in 2022, a properly installed car seat is essential to keeping kids safe.

Image courtesy of AAA Insurance.

Choosing the Right Seat for Your Child’s Age

Another common issue is transitioning children to different car seat types prematurely. Research shows that 25 percent of children are placed in booster seats too early, and 90 percent of kids using a regular (lap and shoulder) seat belt would be better protected in a booster seat or forward-facing car seat.

Boosting Your Car Seat Knowledge

To further educate parents and caregivers, free resources like the “Car Seat Basics” online course is available. The comprehensive program, developed by the National Safety Council in collaboration with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, covers every stage of child passenger safety, from rear-facing seats to the transition to seat belts.
Ensuring your child is in the right seat and that it’s installed correctly is critical to their safety on the road. Taking the time to double-check your car seat setup could make a lifesaving difference.
For more information head to aaa.com/carseats.

Sep 12
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Woman hiking through Zion Narrows_SLMSO24_AdobeStock_1450755

Explore Zion National Park in the Fall

By Adventures, Outdoors

Of the five National Parks in Utah, Zion (not “Zion’s”) is the most-visited. It drew 4.6 million visits in 2023 (only slightly less than the Grand Canyon’s 4.7 million). The park’s popularity makes visiting in peak season, well, kind of a bummer. The peak of those visits happens from April through early September. This makes late September and October two of the best times to explore. Temperatures cool and the crowds thin out. There will be other visitors for sure (especially on the Instagram-bucket-list hike Angel’s Landing, which requires a permit for only the latter half of the trail.) But it’s much easier to find spaces of solitude. Take for example, the second most popular hike in the park, The Narrows (pictured above). This “hike” is a scramble up the Virgin River. The area near the trailhead is busy, but fortune favors the bold. The further you go upriver, the less folks there are. To tolerate the cold water, rent a Narrows hiking package from Zion Adventure Company (zionadventures.com) or Zion Outfitter (zionoutfitter.com). They include felt bottom boots that make scrambling over the rocks easier, waders and even full dry suits.

How to Explore Zion National Park in the Fall

Zion is Utah’s lowest park in both elevation and latitude, so its weather tends to be fair year-round. During the fall in Zion National Park can expect rain but rarely snow. You’ll encounter cool temperatures, especially in sunless canyon bottoms like The Narrows. Springdale, located just below the park entrance, is for the most part open for business in the winter season, but restaurants and stores often limit their hours. The Cable Mountain Lodge has a helpful “what’s open” guide.

Zion National Park in Fall
View from Angels Landing. Photo by Visit Utah.

The Big Hikes

Angel’s Landing — Distance: 5.4 miles

This is a pre-lawyer hiking trail. It’s a butt-kicking climb to the very top of Zion Canyon, famously completed by a “chain route”—where the vertiginously narrow trail offers chain handholds as you crawl up tummy-turning sections with sheer drop-offs. Yes, people have fallen. No, they did not survive. Yet the trail remains open, perhaps because the payoff is so spectacular—a perch on Angel’s Landing with stunning views in every direction and a sense of fear-facing accomplishment. Do not do this hike in less-than clement weather. 

The Narrows—Distance: 9.4 miles

The Narrows is a scramble up the Virgin River. You splash over and around river-rock bowling balls as towering rock walls close together as you ascend the canyon. In the summertime, people tackle The Narrows in sandals and shorts, but in the off season you’ll need some gear. Rent a dry suit from Zion Outfitters (zionoutfitter.com). The thick, rubbery suits keep the water out and you warm and dry inside. And although you’ll look like you belong on a Star Trek landing party, you’ll feel invincible wading through the chest-deep water near the top. The kit also comes with extra-grip water shoes and a giant wooden pole that makes your scrambling easier. The hike terminates at the backcountry boundary (permit required). And although you’re not hiking uphill, all the wading and clambering is tiring, so remember you’ll have to return the way you came. Consider turning back before you’re all gassed out.

Off-season Eats

Whiptail Grill

Whiptail Grill is a cute cantina in a converted gas station, serving creative takes on Mexican cuisine. 445 Zion Park Blvd., Springdale, whiptailgrillzion.com, 435-772-0283

Off-season Stay

Cable Mountain Lodge

Located right at the mouth of Zion Canyon, Cable Mountain Lodge is practically in the park. The lodge has standard hotel rooms as well as family-sized suites with kitchens and plenty of space. Bonus: The hot tub is open year-round. 147 Zion Park Blvd., Springdale, cablemountainlodge.com, 435-772-3366

Find more tips and tricks on Utah’s National Parks in the office season, here

Sep 11
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Jersey Boys in Utah

 Preview: PTC’s ‘Jersey Boys’

By Arts & Culture, Theater

Ready to be serenaded and scandalized all at once? Jersey Boys is hitting the stage at Simmons Pioneer Memorial Theatre on Friday, Sept. 13, 2024. It’s bringing the magic of Frankie Valli and promises to bring the magic of The Four Seasons to life right before your nostalgic eyes.

This jukebox musical takes us on an exciting ride through the lives of Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito, and Nick Massi—four guys from Newark who went from neighborhood nobodies to international icons. Think of it as The Sopranos meets “Bohemian Rhapsody,” with a soundtrack so iconic it might be in your own Rock ’n’ Roll Hall of Fame.

The plot unfolds, revealing the band’s story from four distinct perspectives. Frankie Valli, with his unmistakable falsetto, is the charming lead whose ambition and talent push the group to stardom. Bob Gaudio, the musical mastermind, brings the hits and helps keep the band’s sound fresh. Tommy DeVito, the flamboyant troublemaker, adds to the drama with his larger-than-life personality and financial woes. And Nick Massi, the quiet bass player, provides the steady backbone—literally and figuratively.

The musical covers their rise to fame, starting with their early days playing local clubs and struggling to get noticed. The story takes a few twists and turns, exploring their personal lives and the challenges that come with sudden success. Expect a rollercoaster of emotions as the group deals with everything from creative differences to financial struggles and personal betrayals.

And, of course, there’s the music. The show features an electrifying playlist of The Four Seasons’ greatest hits, from the infectious “Sherry” to the classic “December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night)” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” It’s a non-stop parade of unforgettable melodies that will have you tapping your feet and singing along before you even realize it. We’re excited to see this production of a musical that blends top-notch tunes with a juicy behind-the-scenes look at one of the biggest bands of the ’60s, Jersey Boys is your ticket to a night of pure entertainment. I’m curious to see firsthand why this show had a 12-year residency on Broadway. I’ve got my tickets and dancing shoes ready.

Read our full review of Pioneer Theater Company’s Jersey Boys.

  • WHAT: Jersey Boys

  • WHEN: September 13-18th, 2024

  • WHERE: Pioneer Theatre Company, in the Simmons Pioneer Memorial Theatre

  • TICKETS AND INFO: pioneertheater.org

Sep 11
Love0

Test Post C

By Eat & Drink

Exploring the surprisingly sophisticated and accessible sips along the ‘Utah Wine Trail’

It’s early November and there’s a pleasant crispness in the air as I chat with Mark Bold and John Delaney across the bar. We’re inside the small and cozy tasting room at the business partners’ namesake Bold & Delaney Winery, located just north of St. George along Highway 18. I sip a lovely pinot noir while Delaney talks, occasionally gesturing to the vines just outside the tasting room’s door. “Pinot is a thin-skinned, finicky grape that many of the region’s other wineries do not grow,” he says, “but it does very well for us.”

Photo courtesy of Bold & Delaney Winery / Facebook

Now, if you’re wondering how any grape, much less the somewhat delicate pinot grapes, could flourish in Southern Utah’s red rock desert, you’re probably not alone. But Bold & Delaney Winery is also not alone. It is, in fact, one of six boutique wineries, from Cedar City to Hildale, making up the Utah Wine Trail (utahwinetrail.com).  

“Southern Utah is at the 37th parallel, the same latitude as Spain, Italy and Greece,” explains Michael Jackson, owner of Zion Vineyards in Leeds. And like those famous European winemaking regions, the volcanic soils in Utah’s southwestern quadrant (more than 150 dormant cinder cone volcanoes dot the landscape there) and sizable diurnal shift, or daily temperature swings (often as much as 30 degrees), coalesce to create a surprisingly apt environment for wine-making grapes to achieve an optimal sugar and acid balance as they grow.

Photo courtesy of Bold & Delaney Winery / Instagram; I/G Winery

But enough wine-nerd talk. From north to south, the Utah Wine Trail begins at I/G Winery’s (59 W. Center Street) charming downtown Cedar City tasting room, a hip and inviting space furnished with velvet-covered sofas and local art. Some of I/G’s more notable varietals include its Barrel Aged Seduction, a red blend that tastes like Christmas in a bottle; Exhilerate, a refreshing and light sauvignon blanc; and 9 Barrels Red blend, a flavorful but not overt merlot made from grapes grown just northwest of St. George on Pine Valley Mountain. I/G makes 20 wines in all, available to taste at the winery by the flight, the glass (I/G Winery has a bar license) or the bottle.

The tiny town of Leeds, just north of St. George, boasts two wineries, including The Vine Yard (1282 N. Shadow Lane), owned and operated by Roberto Alvarez. There, Alvarez sits with visitors around his dining table offering tastes and tales of the 10 varietals grown in the fields behind his tasting room/home. When I visited, Alvarez and I tasted a deliciously fruity yet dry garnacha. Other wines offered there include cariñena, petite syrah, tempranillo, syrah, zinfandel, albariño, sauvignon blanc, semillon slanc and viognier. But when asked to name his favorite, Alvarez replied, “It’s like asking me, ‘which is your favorite child?’” When you go, be sure to go hungry. Tastings at The Vine Yard come with Instagram-worthy charcuterie plates.


There’s a history at Leeds’ other winery, Zion Vineyards (5 Hidden Valley Road). “Grapes were grown on this very spot in the 1880s,” says owner Michael Jackson as he looks out over his 4.5 acres of vines. Zion Vineyards’ offerings include a lovely grenache blanc, a refreshing albariño, a sweet moscato and a delicious selection of reds including tempranillo, petite syrah and zinfandel. “All of our white wines are aged in stainless steel tanks and all the reds in oak barrels,” Jackson says. Zion Vineyards’ existing tidy white clapboard tasting room will be dedicated to production when construction of a larger building, customizable for both small, intimate tastings and larger parties, like weddings, is completed later this year.

Photo courtesy of Water Canyon Winery / Facebook

Standouts among the 14 varietals grown on Bold & Delaney Winery’s gorgeous Dammeron Valley acreage (1315 N. Horsemans Park Drive) include sauvignon blanc, the grapes of which winemaker John Delaney says are picked early, so its “light, bright and crisp” and malvasia bianca, first introduced to the Desert Southwest by Maynard James Keenan, winemaker and lead singer of the band, Tool. What all Bold & Delaney varietals have in common is that they are unfiltered. “As soon as you filter a wine,” Delaney says, “you immediately take away some of its character.”

Chances are you’ll get to meet at least one member of the Tooke family, owners and operators of the Utah Wine Trail’s southernmost stop, Water Canyon Winery, which spans two locations: the Hildale vineyard (1050 West Field Avenue) and a tasting room in Springdale (1066 Zion Park Boulevard). At both locations, visitors can partake in an experience unlike anywhere else: sipping Water Canyon’s all-natural wines. 

“There are no additives in our wines, whatsoever,” Emma Tooke says, “which means that once you open one of our bottles, it needs to be consumed within 24 hours.”

Varietals grown at the Tooke family’s winery include sangiovese, cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon and barbera, among others. A large outdoor pavilion flanked by vines and the Winery Café, operated by Emma’s twin brother, Indy, are the centerpieces of the Water Canyon’s vineyard and tasting room in Hildale; the winery’s Springdale tasting room takes on a more moody, urban-Bohemian vibe, offering the perfect respite after day spent exploring Zion National Park. 

See more stories like this and all of our Food and Drink coverage. And while you’re here, why not subscribe and get six annual issues of Salt Lake magazine’s curated guide to the best life in Utah? 

Sep 11
Love0
Concerts in Salt Lake City

Preview: Hayes Carll and The Band of Heathens Join Forces 

By Music

Hayes and The Heathens isn’t simply Hayes Carll and The Band of Heathens (BoH) sharing the marquee at a concert in Salt Lake City. Hayes & The Heathens is project, a union born out of years of mutual respect. Their respective award-winning careers have run parallel and criss-crossed many times. Now we can see them together at The Commonwealth Room on Sunday, September 15, 2024 as one “must-see” supergroup playing a mix of music from both their massive catalogs.

If past setlists from this tour are any indication, fans will get to hear BoH songs like  “LA County Blues” alongside Carll’s “KMAG YOYO” (that a military slang acronym for ‘kiss my ass goodbye youre on your own). They may even play their latest collaborative single “Nobody Dies From Weed.”  Fans of rock ‘n’ roll, country, folk, and soulful blues will get a whole lot of roots-rocking funky coolness when these two powerhouses join forces for one magical evening. 

Hayes Carll–The Grammy-nominated Texas storyteller sings whimsical, well-crafted songs with the swagger of rock ‘n’ roll, the saccharine sentiment of country, and introspection of folk. Carll occupies that middle lane between James McMurtry and Ray Wylie Hubbard. His fun, often irreverent songs will put a smile on your face and a dance in your step. 

The Band of Heathens– The Austin-based roots rockers may be the greatest rock ‘n’ roll band you’ve yet to discover. As a purely independent touring group who refused to sign-on to corporate record labels, The Band of Heathens self-manage, promote, and record their music. The end result is an organic, mid-tempo, roots rock ‘n’ roll sound accented with a little Austin honky-tonk attitude.

Those of us who were fortunate enough to catch Carll’s two sets at the Ogden Music Festival this spring have been eagerly awaiting his return to the Wasatch Front. Loyal BoH fans, like me, never miss a chance to see them when they come to town. This is a budget-friendly show with two headliners for the price of one.

Who: Hayes & The Heathens
What: Hayes Carll and The Band of Heathens together
Where: The Commonwealth Room
When: Sunday, September 15, 2024
Info and tickets: https://thestateroompresents.com/the-commonwealth-room

Sep 10
Love0

Test Post B

By Eat & Drink

Exploring the surprisingly sophisticated and accessible sips along the ‘Utah Wine Trail’

It’s early November and there’s a pleasant crispness in the air as I chat with Mark Bold and John Delaney across the bar. We’re inside the small and cozy tasting room at the business partners’ namesake Bold & Delaney Winery, located just north of St. George along Highway 18. I sip a lovely pinot noir while Delaney talks, occasionally gesturing to the vines just outside the tasting room’s door. “Pinot is a thin-skinned, finicky grape that many of the region’s other wineries do not grow,” he says, “but it does very well for us.”

Photo courtesy of Bold & Delaney Winery / Facebook

Now, if you’re wondering how any grape, much less the somewhat delicate pinot grapes, could flourish in Southern Utah’s red rock desert, you’re probably not alone. But Bold & Delaney Winery is also not alone. It is, in fact, one of six boutique wineries, from Cedar City to Hildale, making up the Utah Wine Trail (utahwinetrail.com).  

“Southern Utah is at the 37th parallel, the same latitude as Spain, Italy and Greece,” explains Michael Jackson, owner of Zion Vineyards in Leeds. And like those famous European winemaking regions, the volcanic soils in Utah’s southwestern quadrant (more than 150 dormant cinder cone volcanoes dot the landscape there) and sizable diurnal shift, or daily temperature swings (often as much as 30 degrees), coalesce to create a surprisingly apt environment for wine-making grapes to achieve an optimal sugar and acid balance as they grow.

Photo courtesy of Bold & Delaney Winery / Instagram; I/G Winery

But enough wine-nerd talk. From north to south, the Utah Wine Trail begins at I/G Winery’s (59 W. Center Street) charming downtown Cedar City tasting room, a hip and inviting space furnished with velvet-covered sofas and local art. Some of I/G’s more notable varietals include its Barrel Aged Seduction, a red blend that tastes like Christmas in a bottle; Exhilerate, a refreshing and light sauvignon blanc; and 9 Barrels Red blend, a flavorful but not overt merlot made from grapes grown just northwest of St. George on Pine Valley Mountain. I/G makes 20 wines in all, available to taste at the winery by the flight, the glass (I/G Winery has a bar license) or the bottle.

The tiny town of Leeds, just north of St. George, boasts two wineries, including The Vine Yard (1282 N. Shadow Lane), owned and operated by Roberto Alvarez. There, Alvarez sits with visitors around his dining table offering tastes and tales of the 10 varietals grown in the fields behind his tasting room/home. When I visited, Alvarez and I tasted a deliciously fruity yet dry garnacha. Other wines offered there include cariñena, petite syrah, tempranillo, syrah, zinfandel, albariño, sauvignon blanc, semillon slanc and viognier. But when asked to name his favorite, Alvarez replied, “It’s like asking me, ‘which is your favorite child?’” When you go, be sure to go hungry. Tastings at The Vine Yard come with Instagram-worthy charcuterie plates.


There’s a history at Leeds’ other winery, Zion Vineyards (5 Hidden Valley Road). “Grapes were grown on this very spot in the 1880s,” says owner Michael Jackson as he looks out over his 4.5 acres of vines. Zion Vineyards’ offerings include a lovely grenache blanc, a refreshing albariño, a sweet moscato and a delicious selection of reds including tempranillo, petite syrah and zinfandel. “All of our white wines are aged in stainless steel tanks and all the reds in oak barrels,” Jackson says. Zion Vineyards’ existing tidy white clapboard tasting room will be dedicated to production when construction of a larger building, customizable for both small, intimate tastings and larger parties, like weddings, is completed later this year.

Photo courtesy of Water Canyon Winery / Facebook

Standouts among the 14 varietals grown on Bold & Delaney Winery’s gorgeous Dammeron Valley acreage (1315 N. Horsemans Park Drive) include sauvignon blanc, the grapes of which winemaker John Delaney says are picked early, so its “light, bright and crisp” and malvasia bianca, first introduced to the Desert Southwest by Maynard James Keenan, winemaker and lead singer of the band, Tool. What all Bold & Delaney varietals have in common is that they are unfiltered. “As soon as you filter a wine,” Delaney says, “you immediately take away some of its character.”

Chances are you’ll get to meet at least one member of the Tooke family, owners and operators of the Utah Wine Trail’s southernmost stop, Water Canyon Winery, which spans two locations: the Hildale vineyard (1050 West Field Avenue) and a tasting room in Springdale (1066 Zion Park Boulevard). At both locations, visitors can partake in an experience unlike anywhere else: sipping Water Canyon’s all-natural wines. 

“There are no additives in our wines, whatsoever,” Emma Tooke says, “which means that once you open one of our bottles, it needs to be consumed within 24 hours.”

Varietals grown at the Tooke family’s winery include sangiovese, cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon and barbera, among others. A large outdoor pavilion flanked by vines and the Winery Café, operated by Emma’s twin brother, Indy, are the centerpieces of the Water Canyon’s vineyard and tasting room in Hildale; the winery’s Springdale tasting room takes on a more moody, urban-Bohemian vibe, offering the perfect respite after day spent exploring Zion National Park. 

See more stories like this and all of our Food and Drink coverage. And while you’re here, why not subscribe and get six annual issues of Salt Lake magazine’s curated guide to the best life in Utah? 

Sep 10
Love0
Hogle Zoo Elephant Princess Alice_SLM SO24_Salt Lake Tribune Staff

Meet Salt Lake’s First Elephant: Princess Alice

By Community, Utah Lore

Ted Smith/ S.L. Parks Department’s Utah Writers Project, Utah State Historical Society. 

Around 1911, Salt Lake City completed work on its first major park, Liberty Park. The park was built in the grand tradition of New York’s Central Park and London’s Hyde Park, albeit on a much smaller scale. In that tradition, Salt Lake City’s grand park must have a zoo among its attractions. Animals exotic and, more often, not so exotic filled the menagerie. But what zoo is complete, at least in the minds of Salt Lake City residents at the turn of the 20th Century, without an elephant? In 1916, Salt Lake City school children gathered up nickels, dimes and pennies in a fundraising drive and purchased an Asian elephant from a traveling circus for what was then the elephantine sum of $3,250. Her name was Princess Alice and she came with her circus handler. Emil “Dutch” Shider.

Princess Alice was a favorite, drawing visitors from around the region. But Alice didn’t take well to captivity. She became known for her daring escapes, rampaging around the surrounding Liberty Wells neighborhood, knocking down fences and hiding from searchers for hours. The repeated escapes, although charming, alarmed neighbors and prompted an effort to relocate the zoo to its current location at the mouth of Emigration Canyon in 1931. 

Local author and historian Linda Sillitoe memorialized Princess Alice’s exploits in her work of fiction The Thieves of Summer, which she set during her childhood in Salt Lake City around the time Princess Alice and the zoo moved to Emigration Canyon.

A sculpture in relief of Princess Alice’s visage was included in the elephant enclosure and remains there today. Even with the new digs, in 1947, she once again escaped, rampaging around the zoo grounds. In 1953, at the age of 69, Alice was euthanized after a prolonged illness. 

Art installation located at Hogle Zoo commemorating Princess Alice. Photo by Elizabeth Rudloff, Tim Kelly/ Utah State Historical Society.

Salt Lake Elephant
Emil “Dutch” Shider (above) was
Alice’s longtime caretaker. Ted Smith/ S.L. Parks Department’s Utah Writers Project, Utah State Historical Society. 

Alice’s Offspring

In 1918, Alice gave birth to a male elephant named Prince Utah, the first elephant ever born in Utah. Sadly, he died a year later after his mother rolled over on him.

Sep 09
Love0
Arts Events Culture UtahStateFair-Midway-Night

Your Week Ahead: September 9 – September 15

By Community

Looking for a way to liven up your week ahead? Luckily, Utah has no shortage of exciting events to fill out your calendar. To help you make a selection, we’ve gathered a list of our favorite happenings around-town, from concerts, thrills, sips and scares! For even more events happening in Salt Lake City this week and throughout the month, visit our community events calendar! 

Monday 09/09

What: 2024 Outdoor Concert Series: Buena Vista Social Orchestra
Where: Red Butte Garden (2188 Red Butte Canyon Rd.)
When: 09/09 at 7:30 p.m.
Come and take in the vibrant music of Jesus Aguaju Ramos and his Buena Vista Orchestra. Performing live Monday, 09/09 at the Red Butte Garden, doors open at 6:30 p.m. Read our full show preview by music reviewer John Nelson. 

What: Franck’s Restaurant + Rutherford Ranch Wine Dinner 
Where: Franck’s (6263 S. Holladay Blvd.)
When: 09/09 at 6 p.m. 
Eat Drink SLC is featuring a series of unforgettable food and wine events throughout the valley, from Saturday 09/07 through Saturday 09/14. Franck’s and Rutherford Ranch wine is one of these special events happening on Monday 09/09 at 6 p.m. To see more of these events visit https://eatdrinkslc.com/savor-the-week/

Tuesday 09/10

What: Mrs. Doubtfire – The New Musical Comedy
Where: The Eccles Theater (131. Main St.)
When: 09/10 at 7 p.m.
Enjoy a night of laughs with the family at the Eccles Theater, watching Mrs. Doubtfire – The New Musical Comedy. Rob McClure will reprise his Tony-nominated Broadway performance on tour alongside co-star (and actual wife!) Maggie Lakis in this internationally acclaimed hit musical. The show will play from Tuesday, 09/10 until Sunday, 09/15.

What: Wine Tasting
Where: Cucina Wine Bar (1026 E. Second Ave.)
When: 09/10 at 5:30 p.m. or 6:30 p.m.
Join this tasting, fit for fall, with award winning Piattelli wines, from Argentina. You will get to taste 70 different wines, including sparkling, white, rose, red, reserve and some special edition wines.    

What: Ballet West at The Garden
Where: Red Butte Garden Amphitheatre  (2188 Red Butte Canyon Rd.)
When: 09/10 at 6:30 p.m.
Ballet West is performing at the Red Butte Garden Amphitheatre with both classic and contemporary works. VIP tickets are available for purchase, giving you access to a private reception prior to the main performance. Here you will have the opportunity to meet Artistic Director, Adam Sklute and Executive Director, Michael Scolamiero. 

Wednesday 09/11

What: Wine Down Wednesdays
Where: Après Pendry (2417 W High Mountain Rd., Park City)
When: 09/11 at 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Mid-week made better at the Après Pendry, every Wednesday for weekly wine specials, special tastings and more, all in our stunning, modern space that welcomes guests with indoor and al fresco seating. 

Thursday 09/12

What: 2024 Utah RV SuperShow
Where: Mountain America Expo Center (9575 S. State St, Sandy)
When: 09/12 at 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.
If you’re looking to purchase a new RV, or are just interested in seeing the newest set of RV’s, come and check out the large selection from different dealers around the state of Utah. The dates vary, starting on Thursday, 09/12 at 2 p.m to 9 p.m., Friday, 09/13 at 2 p.m to 9 p.m., Saturday, 09/14 at 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday, 09/15 at 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. 

Friday 09/13

What: Post District Block Party
Where: Post District (570 South 300 West)
When: 09/13 at 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Send off summer at Post District’s inaugural Block Party. This event is free and will feature restaurant pop-ups, entertainment, giveaways, and an open-entry cornhole tournament with plenty of friendly competition! 

What: Opening Day – Nightmare on 13th 
Where: Nightmare on 13th  (300 W. 1300 S.)
When: 09/13
Kick off spooky season the right way! Opening on Friday the 13th, the indoor haunted attraction, Nightmare on 13th, opens its doors for the season. Be among the first to walk through the haunted house this year. 

What: 3rd Annual Art at The Park Utah
Where: The Garden Place at This Is The Place Heritage Park  (2601 Sunnyside Ave.)
When: 09/13 and 9/14 at 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. 
Located at the Garden Place at This Is The Place Heritage Park, this two-day event is open to the public, where you can connect and purchase art from local artists. Artists include Erin Berrett, Louisa Lorenz, Pamela Robins, Julie Berry. 

Saturday 09/14

What: Deer Valley Mountain Beer Festival
Where: Deer Valley (2250 Deer Valley Drive S. Park City)
When: 09/14 and 9/15 at 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Take a scenic chairlift ride to the alpine venue where you can enjoy beer tasting, live music, eating outdoors, playing yard games, and participating in family-friendly activities. 

What: The All American Rejects with Special Guest – Neon Trees
Where: Days of ‘47 Arena – Utah State Fair  (155 N 1000 W)
When: 09/14 at 7 p.m.
The Utah State Fair is back! Starting Thursday 09/05 until Sunday 09/15. Spend the day hopping between rides and playing games at the carnival, walk and eat your way around the Fair, before ending your day watching The All American Rejects in concert. 

What: 2024 OCA Block Party
Where: 455 25th St, Ogden, UT 84401
When: 09/14
Join Ogden Contemporary Arts for its second annual Block Party. The community event will include live music, food vendors, a beer garden, and free Artist Factory workshops. 

What: 2024 Avenues Street Fair
Where: 3rd Ave. – Between D and I Streets
When: 09/14 at 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 
The 2024 Avenues Street Fair includes live performances, food and beverage vendors, parades, and art galleries. 

What: SLC VegFest 2024
Where: 200 E. 400 S.
When: 09/14 at 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. 
SLC VegFest is a community festival, celebrating veganism and plant-based eating. This event is organized by Utah Animal Rights Coalition (UARC). Not vegan? No worries! This event is not only for vegans, but also those interested in helping animals and reducing their ecological footprint, supporting local businesses, healthier living, and enjoying a fun festival with family and friends.

Sunday 09/15 

What: Monster Truck Show at the Utah State Fair
Where: Days of ‘47 Arena – Utah State Fair  (155 N 1000 W)
When: 09/15 at 6 p.m.
Have a night of thrill watching Monster Truck stunts, tricks, and destruction. You can make a day of it by attending the carnival, eating around the fair, and checking out other fun activities happening around the Utah State Fair. Ride Alongs start at 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. Autograph and Pit party at 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The State Fair runs from Thursday, 09/05 until Sunday, 09/15. 

Sep 09
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AbravanelHall_SLM SO24_Dennis Mecham

The Uncertain Future of Abravanel Hall

By City Watch

When violinist David Porter first walked out on stage at Abravanel Hall to audition for the Utah Symphony, his nerves almost got the better of him. The auditions were blind, and a screen hung between Porter and the audition committee. No one saw how the young musician stood stunned by the vision of the hall, with its glittering chandeliers and gold-gilded balconies. 

“I remember starting my Mozart concerto, and it was just…a transcendent sound,” Porter recalls how the hall’s exquisite acoustics took him away from feeling nervous about what the committee thought of his playing.  “It’s just such a special space,” says Porter, who is now a violinist with the Utah Symphony. “It feels like part of me. I know it’s just a building, but it feels exceptional. It’s a part of Salt Lake and a part of its history…The idea that that hall would be torn down still seems impossible to believe.” 

Utah Symphony violinst David Porter performs on the stage at Abravanel Hall. 

When billionaire businessman Ryan Smith, owner of the Utah Jazz and chairman of Smith Entertainment Group (SEG), announced his plan for a Sports, Entertainment, Culture and Convention District in Downtown Salt Lake City, the plan for the development around the Delta Center seemed to put a new road right through the middle of Salt Palace, UMOCA and Abravanel Hall, which could be torn down and rebuilt as a result. The Musicians of the Utah Symphony, American Institute of Architects (Utah chapter), members of the public—even legendary film score composer John Williams (Star Wars, Jurassic Park) —voiced their desire to preserve the hall in its current location. An online petition to save the hall garnered 50,000 signatures. Their message: world-class symphony halls like Abravanel Hall are not replaceable. 

“It’s important for us to remind people that building a great concert hall is very difficult. It’s more of an art than a science,” explains Porter. Much like how a great violin maker will create a new violin that sounds wonderful and when he replicates the process to make another violin, cannot reproduce the same quality of sound. “That’s our concern. That, in our haste to create this new development downtown, we will forget how great our hall is and how important it is to retain.” 

The view of Abravanel Hall from West Temple.

Abravanel Hall’s design features unobstructed views, 16-foot crystal chandeliers and
24-karat gold leaf.

The Musicians of the Utah Symphony’s hope is to save the whole hall in its current form. They say that does not mean that the hall cannot be renovated or have additions like a lobby to face the other side of the street so it better aligns with the orientation of the SECC district plan.

“We’re not at all against changing things for the better, but we believe that the best and most affordable option for the county, too, is to keep the hall that we have.” Salt Lake County, which owns and operates Abravanel Hall, authored a report claiming that needed renovations would cost $200 million, a figure that symphony musicians and city planning commissioners have disputed as overinflated. 

At the time of this writing, the future of the hall is still uncertain, but the tenor of some public officials has changed. According to a statement from Utah Symphony/Utah Opera (USUO), Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson said at a May 20 USUO Board of Trustees meeting that the County’s “plan A” had included rebuilding Abravanel Hall. 

The above rendering illustrates the section of downtown Salt Lake City slated for the new sports and entertainment district.

A month later (after the public backlash), the County was instead exploring “plans B and C,” but USUO had not seen any site plans from the County. 

The Salt Lake City Planning Commission unanimously voted against the requested zoning changes for the SECC, recommending to the City Council that “Abravanel Hall be maintained in its present form on its present site and with the possibility of funding through the district for a modest renovation.” 

They also objected to the speed at which the plan is being pushed through. The Planning Commission has only an advisory role, however, and The City Council voted to move forward with a deal with SEG. The council had a deadline to decide whether to endorse participation in the agreement by Sept. 1, as required by the legislature. After that, the proposed agreement goes to the revitalization zone committee, which has 30 days to send the plan back to the council for a vote on final approval.

Ultimately, the fate of Abravanel Hall will likely come down to whatever Salt Lake County officials decide.

Porter and the other Musicians of the Utah Symphony are asking members of the public to reach out to their city and county council representatives and ask them
to preserve Abravanel Hall. 

“I think we see ourselves as stewards of the hall,” says Porter, who has been heartened by the show of public support. “It’s just been incredible to see the support and the community springing into action to save it. I just. I hope it’s enough.”  

Sep 05
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Lauren Thompson of Twenty and Creek Jenya Norman of Norman Weddings and Events and Melanie Seaman of Twenty and Creek_SLM SO24_Ashlee Brooke Photography

Salt Lake magazine’s September/October Social Pages

By Community

Utah Bride & Groom magazine’s White Party

May 7, 2024 • Siempre Weddings, Draper
Photos by Ashlee Brooke Photography

Utah Bride & Groom magazine hosted its annual spring gala in Draper this year, with a Mediterranean-themed evening full of lemons, chinoiserie and a celebration of Utah’s impressive bridal industry. The evening was designed by Duet Weddings and Events with floral input from Artisan Bloom, and catered by the award-winning chefs at Hill’s Kitchen alongside Sprinkles Cupcakes, Mecca Bar Co. and Vine Lore.

Sponsors: O.C. Tanner  •  St. Regis Deer Valley  •  Got Beauty  •  Elements of Sage  •  Chef Adam Park

 Irene Katzias of Irene Co Events

Isabelle Caiozzo and Nelson Villegas of Cuisine Unlimited

Jenner Lehr of Anne Elizabeth Print Studio, Alexa Howe of Lilly and Iris

 Rachael Masten of Sunday’s Best, Douglas Bethers, wedding officiant 

Tonya Hoopes of Hoopes Weddings and Events, Sydney Smith and Dominique Anderson of O.C. Tanner Jewelers  

Visit Salt Lake’s 3rd Annual SALT Awards

June 25, 2024 • Janet Quinney Lawson Capitol Theatre
Photos by Brandon Cruz Photography

Hospitality employees provide vital support for Salt Lake County’s visitor economy and Visit Salt Lake recognized the stars of our tourism industry at the third annual SALT Awards held June 25, 2024, at the Janet Quinney Lawson Capitol Theatre. With the theme of “The Greatest Show,” entertainment for the evening included a spectacular performance by the awe-inspiring TRANSCEND, represented by Utah Live Bands. The awards celebrated hospitality workers who exemplify service, accomplishment, leadership and tenacity (SALT), with categories in the lodging and dining industries as well as an award that encompassed those involved with attractions, venues, caterers and transportation providers. Each award recipient was recognized with an engraved SALT crystal award and a $2,000 check.

 Transcend by Utah Live Brands 

VSL Staff photo.

Salt Lake magazine’s Best of the Beehive Launch Party

July 10, 2024 • The Local Eatery & Bar
Photos provided by Vine Lore

Salt Lake magazine held a party to celebrate the launch of its July-August issue and the 2024 honorees
of the Best of the Beehive. The Best of the Beehive is Salt Lake magazine’s annual celebration of the people, places and things that make Utah great. For the 2024 Best of the Beehive, Salt Lake magazine editors, contributors and readers compiled our 75-plus reasons to love Utah. Food was served by the The Local Eatery & Bar’s food vendors, libations were served at the Local’s The Good Bar and provided Vine Lore, Beehive Distilling and Scion Cider. Decor was provided by Cactus and Tropicals.

 Tamara Gibo (left) of Takashi, Jim Santagelo of the Wine Academy of Utah, Tracey Thomson of Vine Lore

Jeanette Cabral of Coco Art & Spa (left), Christer Whitworth, Greg Erickson, Jane Garff Whitworth, Janette Erickson, Lisa Peterson and wildlife mural artist Chris Peterson.

Valley Behavioral Health Hosts “Rise Together Celebration” Gala

May 16, 2024 • Salt Lake City
Photos by Meagan Hammon, Valley Behavioral Health

To support the needs of its 14,000+ clients, Valley Behavioral Health hosted its inaugural “Rise Together Celebration” gala. The event honored individuals and organizations that have made a significant impact on Valley Behavioral Health’s clients and the community.

Valley Behavioral Health–the leading mental health provider in Utah–is using proceeds to help individuals grappling with homelessness, severe mental illness, autism and intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD).

Award recipients: Community Impact Award, Mayor Jenny Wilson; Partnership Excellence Award, Autism Council of Utah; Philanthropy Changemaker Award, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints;  Lifetime Achievement Award, Dr. David Dangerfield. 

Jared Sanford and Community Impact Award honoree Mayor Jenny Wilson

Julie Winn, VP of Children, Family and IDD Services, and event guests.

Jewish Family Service Brunch in the Garden Fundraiser

June 30, 2024 • Red Butte Garden
Photos by Terra Firma Photography

Jewish Family Service celebrated at the Brunch in the Garden event in the stunning surroundings of Red Butte Garden on June 30, with proceeds going to support the vital services provided by JFS. This event also honored Darcy Amiel, our esteemed Past Board President, whose contributions have significantly impacted our organization. JFS is a nondenominational, nonprofit, social service agency serving all Utahns since 1872 with a mission to strengthen individuals and families of all backgrounds through counseling, advocacy, care management and education. The organization provides a variety of programs in Salt Lake City and Park City. To learn more, please visit jfsutah.org. 

The Amiel family—Jack, Joey, Darcy and Ben 

Felix Kishinevsky, Jimmy Berg, Board Member and Brunch in the Garden Co-Chair Harriet Berg and Jennifer Kishinevsky.

Visit Salt Lake’s Inaugural SALT Summit

June 2024 • Locations around Salt Lake County
Photos by Brandon Cruz Photography

Visit Salt Lake created the inaugural SALT Summit with events throughout June 2024, an educational and awards gala celebrating excellence in hospitality. Dedicated to honoring the hard work and exceptional service of our hospitality industry professionals, the SALT Summit is a movement to elevate the standard of excellence in hospitality, foster continuous learning and celebrate the unsung heroes
and teams who make our industry thrive. 

Event highlights included educational sessions with dynamic workshops led by industry leaders, and a keynote featuring Will Guidara, author of Unreasonable Hospitality. Participants gained insights into the latest trends, best practices and innovative strategies to elevate their service and leadership skills. There was an entire track for frontline staff to help provide resources and education to inspire. Expert-led sessions covered topics from resources and education for frontline staff—to customer service excellence and insight into innovative hospitality technologies. Sessions include “AI 101—How to Lead,” “Future of Destinations,” “Frontline Training 101,” and “Advocates to Experts—Resources to Enhance Quality of Life.”

Dee Brewer of Downtown Alliance and Kaitlin Eskelson of Visit Salt Lak

Tom Kelly and Olympian Ashley Caldwell  

VSL President and CEO Kaitlin Eskelson

Salt Lake County
Mayor Jenny Wilson and Tom Kelly.

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