Category Archives: Events

Outdoor Retailer 2014 Kicks Off With Demo Day

Jill Adler Leave a comment

It was a lovely spring day in the middle of winter as the Outdoor Retailer Show kicked off its annual five-day convention yesterday at Utah’s Solitude Resort. Blue skies and 40-degree temperatures is the next best thing to freshies but you could tell that the manufacturers were conflicted.

Everyone enjoyed the mild weather as they ran laps on the Eagle Express lift, demoing new backcountry skis and boots (front country gear is showcased in Denver at the SIA Show next week) but the day was bittersweet. You want storms and powder to sell winter gear. No one is more unhappy about the dearth of snowfall in the west this year than retail buyers who might be stuck with expensive product if things don’t pick up. They also might be less willing to place new orders.

Gerbings featured a new heated glove but it was so bluebird you skied gloveless. Guests at the demo day were more worried about getting feet wet than slipping on ice but, good news for YakTrax, runners still surrounded their table to learn more about the running-specific ice cleats. Jambu is featuring a unique retractable cleat system in some of their winter shoes but at a $200+ pricetag it may be a tough sell.

Nearly 22 thousand people have arrived to celebrate winter outdoors and take in the gear and clothing that will hit the market next October but after three bad snow seasons it will be interesting to see how it affects retail buying. Manufacturers will pitch new and updated products to buyers and media in the halls of the Salt Palace Convention center through Saturday.

The winter market is one of the largest conventions in Utah (only the summer version is bigger) and brings in more than $20 million for the state. The money’s important but people wouldn’t attend if it wasn’t one heck of a good time- even in Utah. One thing this weak season has done is make the backcountry more appealing. Desperate powderhounds are heading out in droves says Tyson Bradley of Utah Mountain Guides. Everyone’s signing up for classes and tours hoping to find something better than what’s inbounds.

For 2014/15, expect lighter skis with carbon, and more boots with a ski/walk mode. The challenge is in the binding system. Marker still leads the way for traditional alpine skiers who would prefer to use one hardshell boot for everything but models like the Baron are still heavy beasts for touring. Dynafit spent the day outfitting ‘testers’ with the stiff but lightweight carbon Denali ski and their Beast binding. Trouble is, you have to wear their boots to fit the pins in the system so for resort skiers it doesn’t make sense to have a whole separate setup.

In the end, a bluebird day is a bluebird day and you can’t complain about that. The sun softened the snow and backcountry mountain lovers (for whom this show is traditionally focused) are psyched to head indoors to see what’s in store- literally.

Today’s indoor portion kicks off with a keynote breakfast by U.S. Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell, former CEO of REI, where she’ll discuss engaging Americans in the outdoors. The rest of the week is filled with seminars, events and parties.

Events

Sundance- Day 1 on Day 5

Jill Adler Leave a comment

*Disclaimer: We are not counting Thursday as Day 1 of the Fest as it’s not a full day.

I started Sundance with the best of intentions. I would write once a day from the scene of the crime. By Friday (Day 1) I was right on track. I kicked off the morning with a trip to the Quaker Oats Lodge to meet Brooke Burke and get the skinny (she’s that too) on her spokesperson gig promoting healthy, quick energy options from the cereal brand. We busy ski moms are all about getting the gear packed and the kids out the door in time for 9 a.m. lessons. Who’s got time for omelets and pancakes?

The lodge did actually feel like a cafeteria in a ski resort. They even had an oatmeal station with servers making three different types of oatmeal concoctions you could try at home.

Quaker premiered an emotional short film featuring our worst enemy- time. Several guests shed a tear or two. We were asked to add to their wall on the way out. Can you guess which statement is mine? J

A large part of the Sundance Film Festival is gifting. Companies pay big bucks to station themselves in “pop-up lounges” for facetime with celebrities, media, and industry professionals like publicists and sales agents. It’s networking with swag. I love this part because being from Utah we don’t often get exposure to style and fashion unless it’s for the slopes. Boy was I surprised to see ExOfficio showcasing their Give and Go boxers at TR Suites (one of the hottest popups of the Fest). If my boyfriend could replace his entire collection with these babies, he would. We just learned he can wear them into the shower, rinse and wring and be good to go with them that same day.

And who doesn’t need a Bluetooth speaker?

Caterpillar– yes, the heavy equipment manufacturer- is making heavy duty boots that are ideal for stomping around Park City whether you are a celeb or a ski bum.

Also at the Talent Resources spot in the Blue Iguana was Gardein. The meat-free ‘chicken’ strips are tasty. Not a huge fan of their other stuff but you might be. More quick, on-the-go foods for busy skiers and families!

On my way back down Main Street I had a close encounter with Paul Reiser. I even stopped him to get a picture with him only to find out that in the rush I forgot to turn my camera on! Ugh.

Speaking of celebs, can someone please tell me the name of this actor? He was in the short-lived HBO show with Nick Nolte called Lucky but he’s also been in a zillion other projects. You know you’re a great actor when people recognize your face but not your name. It means you become the character- not an actor playing a character.

Well, at this point, so far so good. But notice that today is now Tuesday not Friday. More on that in the next post!

Events
Scene

When Park City’s Not Park City

Jill Adler Leave a comment

Is it bad that I’m not missing skiing right now? After my EPIC and I mean EPIC day of pow at Alta on Monday I put away the skis and got ready for Sundance. It’s like the circus came to town and with zero fresh and 50 degree weather, skiers and non-skiers alike have a decent excuse to take in the sights and sounds of a newly ‘converted’ Park City Main Street. More than two decades ago, Sundance organizers and Park City collaborated to move the Sundance Film Festival to the historic resort as a way to bring business to town during a traditionally slow time of year. Then came the World Cup Freestyle at Deer Valley Resort and MLK weekend and now January is insane in this tiny town. Driving’s a hassle, parking non-existent unless you like extortion with your entry pass, the restaurants are booked and your favorite dining galleries are “lounges” and “suites”. Yet, still, there’s plenty of room to ski. But I can do that any old day.

Park City businesses must feel the same. Many on Main Street pack up their stock, their paintings, their dishes and get out of town for the first four days of the Fest; choosing to take a huge chunk of cash to walk away and let sponsors like Chase Sapphire and YouTube take over their spaces. For most, those rentals amount to a couple of months’ rent in just four days.

J Go Gallery rents to Variety Magazine for a celebrity interview lounge the first five days of the festival. (eg. Good Stargazing Spot). “The first weekend is mostly people in the film industry seeing movies, networking and having coffee. They are not spending a lot of time shopping,” the Gallery owners told the Salt Lake Tribune. “The second weekend is more of our clients — film lovers and skiers — who spend more time shopping.” They tried not renting last year and lost money so they’re back in the game this year.

YouTube takes up residence at Root’D (596 Main St.) where the public can grab coffee, listen to live music and view film panels. They will host private parties in the evenings.

I can’t wait to swing by Udi’s this year. Last year, they treated invited guests to an amazingly tasty breakfast, lunch and dinner menu t their showcase their gluten-free products. The pop-up café takes over 501 Restaurant.

My little one love swinging into the Festival Co-op where L’Oreal does face and hair makeovers. She walked with lipstick and shampoo. The space is open to the public 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. daily at 608 Main St.

You can’t miss the giant white ‘cabin’ at the corner of lower Main. And just in case, there’s a huge HP plastered on the sign. The Sundance House presented by HP showcases interactive experiences that will allow you to explore the ways in which technology works with film. You can also get out of the cold- if it ever gets cold this week!- for free Wi-Fi, laptops, and printers use. The HP Live Lounge is the heated tent you see on the corner. It’s earblowingly loud in there when various local artists play so bring your earplugs. Open daily from 9:30 a.m.

If you like cars, the Acura Lounge is right across the street for chances to win a ride-around, gourmet movie snacks and music.

One of the hardest public spots to get into is the Sundance Channel HQ at the top of Main. Well, it’s not really public per se. It’s open to credential holders or you can go online and rsvp for a day pass. The line swings up the street and you basically count on standing there until the event ends and you’re turned away. The invite tickets go before they’re even posted. The café hosts panel discussions and private events at night but the best event is CATDANCE sponsored by Fresh Step kitty litter. The party is also an awards show for cat-related short films.

Not sure you really understand the “industry?” YouTube on Main (596) hosts screening, panels, happy hours and parties – most of which are open to anyone. Daily 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Click here to see a complete schedule of events and programming.

Ever use Airbnb to book your Park City lodging? Now’s your chance to learn about the service. The Airbnb Haus is a nice place to chill and discover rentals from treehouses to castles. Open daily at the bottom of Main in the old Blue Iguana space.

Next stop is the Canon Lounge (aka Rock and Relly’s Pub) next to Park City Live (which itself is the Park City Live Lounge). But at Canon they’ll host panel discussions, screenings and parties for filmmakers to spotlight the Canon Cinema EOS line of professional digital cameras and lenses. My Canon Rebel T4i may not qualify but I’m an actor. I can fake it.

The Utah Film Commission is hosting The Hub. For sure drop in and see what’s cooking in our fair state with regards to film production. The spot at 751 Main will have hot drinks, snacks and hands to shake. Open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

One of the busiest addresses last year was the MorningStar Farms Veggie Burger Bar. Who can resist free food even when it’s veggie burgers? To be fair, they have veggie sliders, veggie chili and chik’n buffalo wings and vegan options as well. Located in the Eating Establishment (317 Main), the Bar is open to the public through Tuesday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

The SkyLodge becomes the ZenDen for exclusive morning yoga workouts (7 a.m! Ouch.) bodywork appointments and private parties co-sponsored by the Awareness Festival and Lulelemon. It’s an eco-friendly retreat for VIPs from the usual crazy scene at Sundance.

Another retreat for VIPs, the EcoHideaway, is the not so much of a gifting place as it is a spot to take in live music. This year’s lounge is back on Main after relocating to Stein Eriksen Lodge for a few years. Expect over 40 musical performances over the three days they’re there. Park City’s Whole Foods gets involved. Last year, I collected some sweet lotions and eye cream. The Spa at Stein Eriksen Lodge will do mini-facials, Utah’s Minky Couture will gift their adorable, uber-soft blankets and scarves; looks like they’re doing OC Hair and Makeup too. Other sponsors touted are LAMO Footwear, Fur Frenzy, OC HAIR and MAKEUP, Bula (yay for a ski connection!), and Under Canvas Glamping Trips to Yellowstone, Moab Desert, and Montana).

Powder Awards Winners and The Morning After Hit Snowbird

Jill Adler Leave a comment

They got kind of buried among the hype surrounding the Sundance Film Festival last year so this year Powder Magazine stepped out of the shadows with their own blowout tonight in Salt Lake City.

The 14^th Annual Powder Awards at The Depot downtown celebrated the best in cinematography, photography, and athletic achievement in ski films at The Depot downtown.

Congrats to Sweetgrass Productions‘ Valhalla for Movie of the Year. Tim Durtschi won Best Male Performance in TGR’s Way of Life, and Elyse Saugstad took Best Female for her work in TGR’s Co-Lab. Sherpa Cinema’s Into The Mind won for best cinematography and McConkey
was named Best Documentary.

“This was one of the most challenging years to be a judge of the Powder Awards,” says POWDER Editor John Stifter. “Between Best Jib and Best Line alone, we had more deliberation with the panel than ever. It really speaks to the high level of skiing and cinematography in our sport.”

In addition to recognizing ski porn and pro athletes, the Powder Awards also showcased readers’ favorite skiers with the annual Powder Poll. Seth Morrison and Ingrid Backstrom rose above the rest. Click here for all of the results.

It makes sense to hold the event in Utah where the best of the best not only patron but park it. The Powder Awards attract a who’s who of the industry, including professional skiers, ski legends, ski film production crews, industry brands, media, and celebrities and they’ll be at Snowbird tomorrow for the Morning After sesh.

The day appropriately begins at the crack of noon Saturday, December 7, where you can rub elbows with your favorite athletes and filmmakers on the Tram Plaza or even stalk them on the hill. There’s a BBQ and DJ music planned until 2:30 and “the largest athlete signing in the world” at 3 p.m. Dress warmly. The forecast calls for a high of 10 degrees in Little Cottonwood Canyon.

Events
Film

Santa Paws Is Coming

Jill Adler One comment

We leave a plate of cookies out for Santa. We wrap gifts for a newborn. Why not put some things under the tree for your best friends? Cats and dogs may not know what Christmas is but they know a new toy or treat when they see it. Get them super excited with these cool items this holiday season.

Ruffwear Cloudchaser

A romp in the mountains could send a chill through their bones if they’re not a fluffy St. Bernard. The softshell Cloudchaser hugs your pooch all the way around his body and insulates him from cold, wet, inclement weather. The waterproof, windproof, breathable three-layer soft-shell upper fabric has four-way stretch and a zippered closure for a snug fit and easy on/off. The belly panel is coated to repel water, snow and dirt. It also has reflective piping for afterwork strolls. $79.95, www.ruffwear.com.

Orvis Toy Box

In a nutshell, this piece of reclaimed wood is gorgeous. The medium-sized box should fit into anyone’s home décor and despite its compact size will handle every toy in the house. Now you don’t have to hide that unsightly pile of squeakers and tugs. The antique mountain look will be a conversation starter. Add a personalized name plate and your dog just may clean up his own toys. $129-149. http://www.orvis.com/store/product.aspx?pf_id=8R93

Petprojekt Squeaky Snowman

It’s easy for Fido to celebrate the holidays when he’s trotting around with a Snowman in his mouth. The squeaky toy is made from 100 percent non-toxic, durable materials and should last you well past New Year’s. Get the Reindeer and Santa Claws Cat designs for extra stocking stuffers. $8-12, www.petprojekt.com

SnugglePuppie

When you’re gone all day skiing, let the SnugglePuppie take your place. This soft, cuddly pup makes a best friend unlike other toys that beg to be tossed, chewed and dragged around. A removable plastic heart beats in the middle and the pocket for handwarmers provides the comfort a mother’s body might. But your pet doesn’t have to be a newborn to discover the warmth of a best friend. Children, seniors and adult dogs too will cuddle with this slipper-sized softie. Heartbeat comes with batteries, it’s machine washable, and because there’s nothing small to chew off it’s safe for all. $39,
http://www.snugglepetproducts.com/snuggle-pets/snuggle-puppies

Dog-e-Glow

OK, a collar is more for you than her but you’ll both feel motivated to take those winter’s night strolls with a Dog-e-Glow. The light-up collar and matching leash come in all sorts of cute designs and stand out even in the dead of night. Whether it’s the bones, plaids or a Cougars or Utes style you’ll love how the little LED bulbs shine along the entire length and can be seen up to 1000 feet away. The weather-resistant collars and leashes can be set to flash, steady and off mode so the replaceable lithium coin cell batteries last up to 150 hours. $9, www.petsmart.com.

Bravo Cat treats

Cats too deserve healthy snacks and with those carnivorous attitudes, Bravo! will surely please the king and queen of the house. The Feline Healthy Medley treats of 100 percent pure muscle meat are freeze-dried to lock in flavor. They’re grain-free and created specifically to nurture the nutritional needs of cats by providing ingredients filled with easily absorbable vitamins and minerals. Use them to train your cat to come indoors, get off the counters and maybe even take that cupcake out of your hand. $8, www.BravoRawDiet.com

Power Paws Socks

Therapy animal owners can tell you dogs’ paws can pick up all sorts of nasties from the floor. So a pair of Power Paws is not just about protecting pads from cold days and slippery floors. The “Advanced” style is a non-slip, reinforced-toe canine sock for indoor/outdoor wear to prevent frostbite, improve traction, keep snow from clumping between toes without sacrificing dexterity and avoid germs at your next trip to the vet. When you don’t need the beefiness of a dog booty try the Power Paws. $24.99; http://woodrowwear.com/.

Go Get It

Move over Chuck-It. The Go Get It is no ordinary ball launcher. The retractable, ergonomic handle extends and retracts for maximum portability. Never touch a slobbery ball again. Hook the thrower to a belt loop or leash handle with the convenient end clip and there’s no excuse not to take it out to play with your buds. $17, http://www.amazon.com/Petmate-Go-Get-ball-launcher/dp/B000R7XPSA/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

Aussie Floppie

If you’ve ever witnessed the mess your dog makes shredding the insides of a stuffed toy you’ll appreciate the Floppie. This 2 in 1 rodent is filling free, and has two squeakers and a braided cotton rope hidden inside for all sorts of all-day fun. $8, http://aussienaturals.us.