Author Archives: Jill Adler

Salomon Opens First US Flagship Store in Utah

 

Salomon in Salt Lake

 

This Saturday get your active self down to the Grand Opening Celebration for Salomon‘s first-ever retail store in the US. The flagship debuts at the City Creek Center where you’ll be able to talk with Salomon product experts, eat a little chow, listen to music and win prizes including outdoor gear and an opportunity to trail run with a member of Salomon’s pro running team. WHo doesn’t love free stuff?

 

Says Tim Wakaruk, Director of Retail Operations for ASWO.  “It’s just time to thank our customers, industry friends, retail neighbors and the community as a whole with a fun party at the store.”

 

You won’t find skis or boots at The Salomon Store; just apparel, footwear and other softgoods. The company wanted to keep authorized outdoor retailers happy. The party starts at noon, June 2, and runs till 5 p.m. at 50 South Main Street, East Block, Level 2.



PCSkiGal Gets a Dog

Four months ago today my best friend in the whole world died. It took me all of three days to fill the emptiness in the house with… a kitty.

I hated feeling that there was no one home but me but I just wasn’t ready for a pup. I needed to mourn, to ski, to gear up for basic training all over again. Sixteen years ago, I put my heart and soul into Tenaya. The 8- week old furball was dropped at my feet late one evening in a SLC McD’s parking lot. We did puppy classes, aggression training and finally got our Canine Good Citizen award along with a certification for the Utah Animal Assisted Therapy organization. My Aussie survived three crappy boyfriends and one amazing one (Ryan), a couple of one nighters, a move to Bend Oregon, a new baby (she actually stayed with me in the recovery room), and my bout with breast cancer. I’m tearing up now. Anyway, I never want to replace her per se but I miss having a companion.

Willow, our grey tabby sleeps in my office on Tenaya’s dog bed behind me or on top of my desk. When I get up to go somewhere, she follows. She has a thing for sleeping on my forehead at night and her antics constantly make me laugh. But she’s not a dog.

As the snow melted, I would see families out on the trails with their pets; I’d drive by Gorgoza Pond after dropping Sage at school and wish I had a dog to take swimming too. Then this coffeetable book- The French Dog by Rachael Hale- showed up in the mail with all sorts heartwarming images of pooches in settings from chateaux to countrysides. The dog on page 127 looked a lot like Tenaya, I thought. I guess you might say the feeling in my gut was like some weird biological clock. I couldn’t wait any longer.

I began combing the internet for breeders near and far. Well, Minnesota was too far but Washington State wasn’t. I found a breeder who directed me to her Facebook page. From there, I joined the Australian Shepherd Lovers group and connected with other breeders. Some referred me to friends that might have puppies. Soon, I was overwhelmed. Who had which puppy? And then there was the price. Some folks wanted $1500 and for me to sign contracts stating what I was going to do with the dog. That didn’t sit quite right. If I was going to pay that kind of money you’d think I could own it outright instead of answering to some sort of petowners association. But for that price they actually come with a three-year warranty like a refrigerator from Sears. There was Bonfire and Maybell – gorgeous red tris in Washington – and Tommy – a red tri male in northern Cali. All tested for every possible genetic defect (hence the charge). I would never be able to afford these dogs and then add to that the cost of traveling to go get one.

Ultimately my search brought me back to Utah. A lovely breeder of working dogs in Panguitch, Utah; discovered right on KSL.com. Apparently half of the Aussies in Utah come from her dogs’ bloodlines. “Puppy” is ASCA registered and right now 6 weeks old. We met today and fell in love. I want him to stay with his family for another week or two before coming home to mine.


with dad ‘Nitro’

I am sorry to everyone who now hates me for not rescuing a dog from a shelter. To be honest, I looked there too. But no Aussie pups. Mixed, yes, but I want pure. There was a reason why 16 years ago I chose the breed and Tenaya’s legacy runs deep. She was the greatest dog I ever had and once you have an Aussie you never go back.

The breeder says that if we come up with a name, she’ll start calling the pup by it. I’d love some ideas so please comment!

P.S. Lorena has two female black tri pups for sale. They are the last two of 13! If you are interested, send me a note.

Summer In Park City Starts Today!

The snow melted months ago but finally the Park City resorts are open for summer play. The rain may dampen activity at Canyons and Park City Mountain Resort today but as things clear up, the good times will shine. If you can’t wait for Deer Valley’s June 15 opening for lift-served mountain biking and hiking you can always park up at Silver Lake and ride around on your own.
 

CANYONS RESORT

The resort village and the 18-hole putting course open today and the rest of its activities on June 14. That means disc golf, the Ziplines, and Mountain Bike Park with four flow trails and trails for hiking.The annual Farmers’ Market opens for biz every Wednesday starting June 6 in the cabriolet parking lot.

Canyons will also host the Sundance Institute Summer Film Series with documentary/family programming. The choices are a little too “conscious” for me but other may really dig them. Too bad because it would have been cool to take my five-year-old to see an outdoor screening of Cars 2 or something. Anyway:

Thurs., June 21: Under African Skies – Paul Simon returns to South Africa to explore the incredible journey of his historic Graceland album.
Thurs., July 12: CSNY Déjà Vu – The war in Iraq is the backdrop as the Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young “Freedom of Speech Tour” crisscrosses North America.
Thurs., July 26: Filly Brown – A Hip Hop-driven drama about a Mexican girl who rises to fame and consciousness.

Other notable dates-

  • Community Fireworks Celebration & Concert: Tuesday, July 3
  • Friday Night Beats & BBQ: Friday, July 13 – August 31
  • Summer Concert Series: Saturday, July 14 – September 1



PARK CITY MOUNTAIN RESORT

Hiking, biking, alpine sliding and zip lining start today at PCMR off the Pay Day lift. All of the base-area activities like the Alpine Coaster, an 18-hole putt-putt course, the adventure zone, Legacy Launcher, and the Little Miners Park open June 8.


DEER VALLEY RESORT 

DV’s been biking for 20 years. They’ll start up three lifts for the summer – the Silver Lake Express, the Sterling Express, and Ruby Express, for a 60-mile network of single-track and hiking trails. Once a month they’ll host a free historic guided hike that starts at the Silver Lake Village. The two-hour tromp goes to the different remnants of the silver mines. The resort also offers a state-licensed childcare center and summer adventure day for kids up to 12 years old. Make sure you set aside time for a signature mojito on the deck of the Royal Street Café!


Essential Summer Gear Item….SUNSCREEN!!!

The sun in the mountains at altitude is wicked evil. Not only will it give you an uncomfortable, ugly red countenance but it can give you cancer and make you look old beyond your actual years.

Dr. Robin for Kids isn’t just for kids. It goes on kind of thick and white but quickly dissipates. It seems to stay on your skin longer than most other sunscreens so if you get caught up in the summer fun and forget to reapply sooner rather than later, you should be ok. I did only one application on myself and Sage before our day at Seven Peaks Water Park and got home without a burn. The SPF 30+ sunscreen is gentle, chemical free, and formulated to minimize allergic reactions. So Baby won’t have to sit in a shady corner. The active ingredients, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide; natural minerals scientifically proven to be the most effective way to block UVA and UVB sun rays. BTW, Dr. Robin is Robin Schaffran, M.D., a caring mom and Beverly Hills Pediatric Dermatologist. $24.



Are You Ready To Rock?

By Jill Adler

The time draws near. The sun radiates, the crowd swells and sounds move outdoors. The summer concert season is nigh. If you’ve never planned, geared up and marched onto a field like an army to battle, you have yet to experience the beast known as the Outdoor Music Festival. Yes, it’s a living, breathing collective that, unless you’re prepared to join, might leave you with the ickies for the rest of your life. Porta-potties, sweaty, sun-pinked bodies, muddy clothes, booze and bong smells with every turn. Sounds unpleasant but a weekend outdoor music festival where you can catch your favorite artist live, you’re surprised by unknown acts and you see so much music for relatively little cost, could take the top place on your most-amazing-time-of-your-life list.

To Make It Happen

Decide well in advance whether you’ll book a hotel or crash at a campground. Hotels are more civilized but if you can handle ‘showering’ with baby wipes and neighbors practically on top of you, you’ll make more lasting friendships and memories under a tent. Start saving up. The green bleeding doesn’t end with the tickets, the lodging, the travel. Expect to pay dearly for carnie food and domestic brews.

For venues that don’t allow outside food, tape snacks to your pant legs or tuck them strategically in your pack or jacket; save your money for bigger meals. Oh and make sure you bring cash. Festival ATM fees are ridiculous and you can’t count on vendors taking plastic.

Fests have waterstations. Bring refillable jugs or hydration bladders so you spend your money on beer instead of water bottles. Remember – one glass of water for every beer if you plan to last all day in the sun.

No matter how great the music is, there will come a time when your ears are done. Pop in plugs for peace as well as protection. If you have little kids or babies go bigger. Pack a pair of gun earmuffs. Seriously. Repeated exposure to 85+ decibels causes hearing loss.

As for the rest of your wardrobe, think layers. It’s cool in the morning, sweltering by noon, cool again at dusk, then you work up a sweat dancing at night among a crowd that just seemed to double with the glow of the moon. Wear technical T-shirts like something from Sports Science (wicks better and dries faster than cotton), cargo shorts, durable shoes, hat, tons of sunscreen, Otterbox your electronics, Wal-Mart rain poncho, sunglasses.

It never hurts to pack a costume and watergun either. Just don’t bring anything you’ll cry over when it gets dirty, lost, broken or stolen. Lastly, pack cough drops. Throats don’t appreciate screaming, cheering, singing your head off and yelling over music for four days. Now get out there and fest!


BEST FEST GEAR

Chaco Z2 Vibram Unaweep Sandals

Flipflops are for amateurs. Real festivarians do Chacos. No slippage- the Chaco Unaweep toe and heel wraps secure your foot; no cramping- the firm contoured footbed gives you lasting arch support; no cold- tug on the strap to flatten the toe loop, slip on some thick merino socks and keep your feet warm till the last song. $100, www.chacos.com.


Kelsyus Backpack Chair w/ UV Canopy 

Don’t let those height restrictions keep you from sitting pretty. The lightweight Kelsyus chair has armrests that convert into backpack shoulder straps. There’s even a little place behind the pillow to stash snacks or beverages. The Canopy’s huge so expect to either sit in the back or use it between sets. $40, Big 5, Costco, Amazon, Target, etc.


Boreal Switchvision Sunglasses

Wear these steezy shades from the lowlight of dawn or dusk to full exposure. Whatever the lighting, pop in the right shade of lens with the patented magnetic interchange system. $115.


Toys

The hours can drag at certain times- especially if you have kids. Bust out the Toss ‘n Catch Foambeez or Zartz Throwing Dartz by Zing or Ringstix if you don’t mind staying to the rear to play. If you don’t mind carrying the extra gear, a kiddie inflatable pool and squirtguns go a long way. $4-13, ToysRUs.com


Loki Kids Fuse Hoody

It’s all about the layers when you’re outside from morning to midnight. Slip on the Loki Fuse with its built-in neck gaiter and mittens so you don’t have to worry about collecting kids’ gear from lost and found at the end of the fest. Plus, he gets to look like a stealth ninja. $75.


BEST FESTS OF THE WEST

Coachella, Indio, Calif.- Rock, hip hop and electronica come together over three days, five stages, and an epic campground. 2011 Headliners include Jimmy Cliff & Tim Armstrong, Mazzy Star, The Black Keys, The Shins, Squeeze, Bon Iver and Florence + the Machine. Mid-April. You missed this one but tickets are already on sale for 2013. Coachella.com

Sasquatch Music Festival, The Gorge near Seattle, Wash.- The premiere rock/alternative indie music fest. Camp out all three days so you don’t miss a beat from up and coming artists. There’s also a comedy tent that morphs into a dance party late at night for you and your 25,000 friends. Don’t miss Pretty Lights, The Roots, Tenacious D, and Beck. Memorial Day Weekend.


Desert Rocks Music Festival

, Green River, UT –  a 4-day camping event in the red rock desert. Expect socially responsible bands, speakers, DJ’s, performers, venders, artists, workshops, and films that have a positive message. The Wailers, Elephant Revival, Chali 2na and The House of Vibe, Holy Water Buffalo, Scenic Byway and more. 6/7-10/2012.

Groovefest American Music Festival, Cedar City, Utah- A five-day festival dedicated to American music; that’s blues and folk, bluegrass and country, Western, Americana, jazz, and jam. 6/19-24/2012.

Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Telluride, Colo.- Woodstock of the West. Four days of bluegrass-based acoustic music that’s been going strong for nearly 40 years. Peter Rowan, Béla Fleck, Edgar Meyer, Tim O’Brien, and Sam Bush are regulars. Kids get their own tent and music at the back and late night concerts at local clubs throughout town rock after the field winds down. 6/21-24/2012.

High Sierra Music Festival, Quincy, Calif.- The eclectic sounds of jazz, newgrass, bluegrass, jam bands, funk, electronica and world music can be heard about 80 miles north of Reno, Nev., There are also workshops, classes, and family-oriented activities.  Matisyahu, Built To Spill, Kids These Days, Ben Harper, Galactic, STS, July 5-8, 2012.

Targhee Fest, Alta, Wyo.- Family friendly rock fest framed by the Tetons. Toots and the Maytals, Trigger Hippy featuring: Joan Osborne & Jackie Greene, Drive By Truckers, JJ Grey & Mofro and more are scheduled to perform. 7/13-15/2012.

Northern Rockies Folk Festival Hailey, Idaho-  Two-day show jam-packed with local Wood River Valley talent as well as national acts playing everything from rock, folk, and Zydeco to Americana and country. Up-and-coming bands with local ties, and student musicians, get 15-minutes on stage during set changes.  8/3-4/2012.

Outside Lands, Golden Gate Park, Calif.- Launched by the people who created Bonnaroo, this mainstream (think Further, Levon Helm, Social Distortion, Slightly Stoopid), 2-day celebration of music, food, wine and art brings together more than 70,000 people. 8/10-12/2012.

Bumbershoot Arts and Music Festival, Seattle, Wash.-  250 performers at over 20 unique indoor and outdoor venues. There’s music, comedy, film, performing and visual arts, dance, theatre, and events for the kids. Labor Day Weekend.

Austin City Limits, Austin, TX- Book your hotel or campsite early. Austin’s version of Bonnaroo draws crowds around 100,000. This three-day American music event draws artists from the Flaming Lips to the Eagles. Kids under 10 get in free and have their own “Kiddie Limits” event- crafts, sand play, School of Rock workshops, DrumZone and rocker hairdos. Oct. 12-14, 2012.

For a fairly complete list of festivals worldwide, check out MusicFestivalJunkies.com.

Powell Bound; The Lake Garners “First Roadtrip of the Season” Award

NO service. The heat of the sun is forcing its way through the passenger window to press against my cheek. As much as I hate the heat trying to burn a hole in my skin, I’m feeling a settled calm. Part of that comes from being done with the rush around- getting ready, stocking the car with essentials, packing for two and prepping the house for friends who will stop in to check on the kitty.

Roadtrips are never as simple as you think. I know I’m forgetting stuff. I should have been packing two days ago. Oh wait. I didn’t even know about this trip two days ago. Come to think of it, roadtripping can be that simple if I can get everything arranged for three people and be out the door in a day and half.

Passengering to Lake Powell for the first weekend in May. It’s our first roadtrip of the season. Last year was a different story with day after day of epic powder at Snowbird I had no desire to leave. This year, it’s the opposite. I have no desire to ski. Instead, it’s off to the water we go to learn to houseboat, to relish the 80 degree temps, to morph jagged snowcapped mountains into raw redrock desert.

The call came two days ago. Slots had opened up for the houseboat course and did I want to rally? Hmmm. We had yard sales, tickets to Derby Day at High West, a Cinco de Mayo party and plans to ski with friends. Did I want to bag all that for a 5 hour roadtrip, a free stay at Defiance Lodge, driving a houseboat and powerboat around the Lake and a welcome invitation to bring my five year old. Yes.

1p.m. and now it’s nearly 6p.m. and we’re not there. 40 more miles. Never make specific plans with people at your final destination. You’re bound to be late. Like that old saying- Half the fun of your trip is your journey. We stopped in Salt Lake for gas and lunch. In Price for the bathroom and in Hanksville for Milk and birthday cake mix. Yep it’s my bday this weekend- Cinco de Mayo actually and I can’t think of better way to celebrate than out of town away from that dreaded question- how old are you? Wtf does it matter, is what I say in my head. J

So we make a cake, clink some Provo Girl and call it good from the bow of the 54-foot Escape.

Hello, Lake Powell!

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