Ogden, UT December 2025

EXCELLENCE.

Providing Quality Care for Over 40+ Years

HOLIDAY GLOW STARTS HERE

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Ogden's Giving Heart: A Season of Kindness and Connection

The holiday season brings a special magic to Ogden, defined by the remarkable generosity of its people. The spirit of giving is a core part of our community's identity year-round, but it shines brightest now.

As lights begin to twinkle, local organizations benefit immensely from the outpouring of time, talent, and treasure. Shelters like Lantern House and Ogden Rescue Mission see critical surges in donations of food and warm clothing for the most vulnerable. Charities like The Christmas Box House, which provide safety and essentials for children who have experienced trauma, ensure their holidays are brighter.

It's more than monetary donations; it's personal commitment. Volunteers ensure safety at the Holiday Electric Light Parade, while programs like Weber State University's Community Christmas provide gifts for local children in need. Every act of kindness—from supporting Utah Food Bank to volunteering at YCC—weaves the strong, compassionate fabric that makes Ogden a fantastic place to live.

Since moving to Ogden in 2006, I have experienced what makes our city truly special: its unwavering spirit of inclusivity and generosity. The mountains are beautiful, but it's the people — ready to help a neighbor when a need arises — who form the community's backbone.

The holiday spirit of giving shines brightly in our local businesses. They consistently show immense kindness, whether buying essential winter coats for children in a nearby school district, donating funds to support a youth in need, or providing meals for people experiencing homelessness. This community doesn't just talk about helping; it acts, embracing mutual responsibility.

In this issue, we spotlight thoughtful gifts and inspiring stories. Discover the impact of adaptive sports for Everyone, sharing how individuals with disabilities enjoy Utah's outdoor spaces. For gifts that matter, Josh Doutre advises on non-material gifts for kids, while Rodney Johns provides meaningful ideas for aging relatives and friends.

Get a festive decoration tip from Amber at Pieces Furniture and Design- so elegant and straightforward that even your pet could do it! Find a new friend in our City Scene section; Quill, a loveable fur baby from Weber County Animal Shelter.

Finally, your holiday gatherings are covered with two recipes: a delightful holiday drink from the Ogden Beer Company and a homemade, fragrant aroma recipe from Peralta Cleaning.

May this holiday season bring you peace, joy, and compassion. Ogden City Lifestyle wishes you a great holiday season.

KATRINA HAMMOND, PUBLISHER @OGDENCITYLIFESTYLE

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Katrina Hammond | katrina.hammond@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Evana Mauriz | evana.mauriz@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Josh Doutre, Tim Holland, Andy Baumgartel

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ogden Valley Adaptive, Andy Baumgartel

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Proverbs

Don’t let congestion, ear pain, sinus infections or sore throats ruin your holiday cheer. Ogden Clinic ENT specialists are here to restore peace, comfort, and good sleep this season. Ogden Clinic’s ENT specialists are here to keep you healthy so you can enjoy the moments that matter most.

EAR

• Ear infections

• Ear pain or pressure

• Hearing loss

• Balance problems

NOSE

• Allergies

• Sinus infections

• Sinusitis

• Congestion

THROAT

• Voice changes/hoarseness

• Strep throat & tonsillitis

• Swallowing problems

city scene

Reverse Metabolic Dysfunction

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business monthly

Wasatch Dermatology: Healthy, Radiant Skin for Life

Dr. Julie A. Maughan, a board-certified dermatologist and the first female dermatologist in Weber County, leads Wasatch Dermatology & SkinSculpt MedSpa in South Ogden with cutting-edge, compassionate care. Since 2007, her team has delivered medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology treatments—tackling skin cancers, acne, eczema, nail and hair disorders, and more—backed by science and personalized service. Dr. Maughan’s practice emphasizes the individual, offering advanced technology and effective skincare in a warm, trusting environment.

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Your Key to Smart Home Loans

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OGDEN VALLEY ADAPTIVE:

Outdoors for Everyone

A nonprofit bringing life-changing outdoor experiences to people with disabilities year-round in Utah.

ARTICLE BY EVANA MAURIZ | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF

THE AIR IN THE MOUNTAINS OF OGDEN VALLEY IS CRISP AND INVIGORATING—A PERFECT PLAYGROUND FOR OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS. BUT FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES, ACCESSING THE SLOPES, TRAILS, AND WATERWAYS CAN BE A CHALLENGE. THAT’S WHERE OGDEN VALLEY ADAPTIVE STEPS IN, A NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION DEDICATED TO REMOVING BARRIERS AND BRINGING THE JOY OF RECREATION TO EVERYONE.

What began in 2009 as simple ski lessons has grown into a year-round hub of activities. Beyond skiing, OVA now offers mountain biking, cycling, kayaking, roller skating, hiking, and even rock climbing. This variety ensures participants can find an activity they love and stay active, no matter the season.

The organization’s beginnings are humble but inspiring. Volunteers at Snowbasin “wanted to help people with disabilities be able to ski and snowboard,” explains executive director Brandon Flint. For years, OVA was small and “completely volunteer-dependent.” Since then, the organization’s growth has been remarkable. Stacy Bernal articulates the blend of skills and passion the staff possess: "They love the outdoors, but also they have a really great skill of working with people with disabilities. We're very lucky to have the people we have."

For Bernal, the work is deeply personal. As the mother of a son with autism, she first discovered OVA through her own search for community resources. “I brought my son to one of their cycling events at Weber State,” she recalls. “It had been years since he’d been on a bike. To see him get that opportunity—to ride an adaptive bike—it was just amazing.”

Today, OVA thrives on generous donations, vital grants, and the unwavering commitment of its staff and volunteers. A turning point came when year-round staff were hired to manage operations, expand programs, and increase community reach.

This dedication has enabled OVA to move beyond winter sports and offer a full calendar of activities throughout the year. Ogden Valley Adaptive is now a model of how vision, dedication, and community support can transform lives—ensuring everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.

“FEET” JENSEN

The success of Ogden Valley Adaptive is deeply rooted in the local community and the dedication of its team. Brandon Flint, who spent 30 years working with the National Park Service, noted the similarities between his past and current work: it’s similar in the sense that he is "really trying to get people outside to experience nature... to live the fullest and best life possible." The people he works with inspire him and make his days deeply fulfilling.

The organization's mission is to remove barriers to recreation, and they are committed to ensuring that financial need is never a roadblock. "We make sure that if anyone [has] a financial need, if that's one of the barriers, we have scholarships," Bernal explains. "So we make sure that it's either a reduced price or we make it free for those who need it."

"Feet" Jensen's story, demonstrates how the program helps participants move past perceived limitations and reinvigorate their lust for life. In an effort to be even more inclusive, Ogden Valley Adaptive also makes it a point to host women's-specific events, recognizing the importance of removing potential barriers related to comfort and providing a safe, supportive environment for all participants.

"Feet" Jensen, is a veteran who lost his legs after being "blown up in Iraq." His story is a powerful example of how OVA can change lives. After participating as a client, he became an instructor and is teaching others how to ski and can "out-cycle almost anybody."

Photo: "Feet" Jensen rock climbing

"A lot of times people with disabilities are socially isolated,  so bringing people together is a social as well as physical exercise for them."

And for those who might think Ogden Valley Adaptive is simply about having fun, Flint has a clear answer: “That’s absolutely true,” he laughs. “We have a great time.” But the benefits extend far beyond that. The program provides life-changing physical, mental, and social benefits:

Social Connection: "A lot of times people with disabilities are socially isolated," Flint notes. "So, bringing people together in this environment—on kayaks or on skis—is a social as well as physical exercise for them." The activities create a space for people to connect, have fun, make friends, and engage in social interactions.

Physical and Mental Health: Getting people outside and active helps counter sedentary lifestyles and has a "long-term health" impact. This is crucial for preventing secondary health problems that can arise from inactivity. The mental component is just as vital: showing people that they can do these things.

Lifelong Skills: The activities taught are not fleeting. They are “sports and activities that benefit people for their whole life.” The goal is to get people to continue hiking, cycling, or skiing for the rest of their lives, long after their time in the program.

CONTINUED >

As a nonprofit organization, Ogden Valley Adaptive is extremely grateful for the local ski resorts like Snowbasin, Nordic Valley, and Powder Mountain. These mountain areas provide crucial access to their mountains and facilities. They provide accessible features like restrooms and warmed walkways during winter months. Snowbasin, in particular, is where the majority of their winter lessons happen. During the warmer seasons, Pineview Reservoir and Ogden Valley's beautiful mountain trails become a scenic destination for biking and kayaking.

Beyond skiing and cycling, OVA continues to expand opportunities that highlight the breathtaking beauty of Ogden Valley.

Participants can explore accessible hiking trails surrounded by mountain vistas, join guided rock-climbing sessions that build confidence and strength, or take part in adaptive roller skating—an activity that’s quickly becoming a favorite for its fun, social atmosphere. These programs give participants the chance to enjoy every corner of Utah’s natural landscape, no matter the season or their ability level. The mix of recreation and community spirit helps foster a deep connection between participants, volunteers, and the great outdoors.

Their largest annual fundraiser is a two-day event called Adapt2Thrive. It begins March 1st and includes a thrilling race day

for participants as well as a demo day sponsored by local businesses. Fundraising efforts also include a mix of sizable and small donors, illustrating the broad, community-driven nature of the organization. There is even an online auction that has numerous prizes to win! The Adapt2Thrive event is a great opportunity for participants to demo skis and snowboards from multiple vendors as well as enjoy slopes. Another big campaign, such as the "Thanksgiving" campaign that runs from Black Friday to Giving Tuesday, encourages community engagement and support.

Ogden Valley Adaptive Sports is excited about the future, especially the potential to enhance more lives and help strengthen local connections. "As we look at the counties... we know there are a lot more people with disabilities who don't know that we exist yet." Flint explains that in neighboring counties like Box Elder, Weber, Morgan, and Davis, there are an estimated 140,000 total people living with disabilities. The need—and the opportunity—for growth is immense. Through their dedication, incredible staff, and the support of the community, Ogden Valley Adaptive continues to ensure that the beauty and adventure of the outdoors are accessible to everyone.

To learn more about Ogden Valley Adaptive Sports, you can find them on social media or on their website at OgdenValleyAdaptive.com .

Holiday Gifting Made Easy

Decorating Pieces

LAYERED GARLANDS AND FESTIVE ACCENTS CREATE A STUNNING HOLIDAY FOCAL POINT.

BY

Design expert Amber  Hamilton, owner of Pieces Furniture and Design, shares her straightforward threestep method for creating a beautiful holiday focal point, whether on your mantle, bannister, or shelf.

STEP 1: ESTABLISH YOUR BASE

Start by placing a simple, plain garland on your chosen surface—your mantle, buffet, or shelves. The goal here is to create a lush, full foundation. Don't be afraid to layer the plain garland, stacking a few pieces together. This provides essential volume and is the perfect, neutral backdrop for the vibrant decorations you'll be adding next.

STEP 2: INTRODUCE COLOR AND TEXTURE

Now, it's time to add dimension by weaving in a second garland that features your desired accent color. This adds depth and visual interest. Next, incorporate festive elements like ornament clusters, colorful ribbons, seasonal floral sprays, or pinecones.

STEP 3: COMPLETE THE HOLIDAY SCENE

The final step is to add your cozy stockings to the mantle hooks. If you are decorating a shelf or buffet, arrange your favorite holiday-themed pieces—think snow globes, small reindeer statues, or festive village houses—among and around the garland.

RODNEY JOHNS

Mobile Notary Services | John's Notary SLC | JohnsNotarySLC.com

Signed for the Season

Q: WHAT DO YOU DO?

A: My name is Rod Johns, and I am a Notary Public . I sign documents like loan papers, wills, and trusts—basically, general notary work. I also have a company called My Life and Wishes that focuses on estate planning. We help clients upload their trusts and wills to a government-secured cloud so their important information is always accessible.

Q: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START THIS CAREER?

A: I was a dentist for many years and retired a couple of years ago, but I was getting bored. My wife and I wanted to find a way to stay active where I could continue to help people—which is why I became a dentist in the first place. After a mobile notary came to our home to do a loan signing for a property we bought, I investigated the career and realized it was a perfect fit for giving back to the community.

Q: WHERE DO YOU OFFER YOUR SERVICES?

A: I am mobile, so I can travel anywhere in my service area, which is quite large. It includes Utah County and extends north through Wasatch and Summit Counties up to Cache, Box Elder, and Grantsville.

THE Greatest GIFT

The holidays are magical. The lights, the laughter, the gifts beneath the tree—it's easy to get caught up in a season of “stuff.”

But the truth is the gadgets we spend so much on today will break, be outgrown, or end up in next year’s yard sale.

What never loses its luster? The values, customs, and financial philosophies you teach your children. These are the gifts that last and lead to lifelong financial independence.

1.

TEACH THEM ABOUT MONEY

Your kids will learn about money somewhere— better from you than the school of hard knocks. Teach them to budget, save, and give back. Letting kids manage some Christmas money helps teach the importance of choice.

2. GIVE EXPERIENCES, NOT JUST STUFF

Make memories that instill appreciation. Experiences show that happiness isn’t tied to dollars.

3. PRACTICE A HEALTHY MONEY MINDSET

Kids learn more from actions than words. Show them gratitude, planning, and patience over comparison, stress, and impulse.

4. START BUILDING THEIR FUTURE TODAY

Instead of another gadget, invest in:

• High-Yield Savings

• Custodial or Index Funds

• Education Savings Plans  Even $25/month can grow into thousands. That’s a gift no toy can match.

The greatest thing you’ll ever leave under the tree isn’t wrapped in paper. It’s the start of financial independence.

Contributed by Doutre Financial Coaching Northern Utah families deserve both—financial clarity and the perfect home. As your financial coach and REALTOR, I help you eliminate debt, build wealth, and make informed purchasing decisions with purpose.

ARTICLE

JOSH DOUTRE

Setting your kids up for financial security

THE CRAN-JAM

Turn up the holiday heat with this cranberry-jalapeño cocktail—sweet, spicy, and utterly festive in every sip!

Spice up your holiday season with this fiery twist on a classic margarita! ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Espolon Reposado Tequila

• .75 oz Ancho Reyes Chile Liqueur

• .5 oz Cranberry Juice

• 2 bar spoons Cranberry Jalapeno Jam

• 3 dashes Fee Foam

directions:

Step 1. Add tequila, Ancho Reyes, cranberry juice, cranberry-jalapeño jam, and Fee Foam to a cocktail shaker with ice.

Step 2. Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until well chilled.

Step 3. Double-strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.

Step 4. Finish with a garnish like a cranberry skewer or jalapeño slice.

ARTICLE

BY

TIM HOLMAN & ANDY BAUMGARTEL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDY BAUMGARTEL

Seasonal Essence

A NATURAL SIMMERING BLEND FOR A COZY, FRAGRANT HOME

Nothing captures the magic of the holidays quite like the scent of citrus and spice wafting through the home. This natural simmering potpourri creates a rich aroma that instantly feels like Christmas.

Once cooled, the infused liquid can be strained and poured into a spray bottle, transforming it into an easy, all-natural room mist. Spritz it on linens, curtains, or simply into the air for a burst of festive freshness—no synthetic scents required.

Caution: Cool before bottling; test spray on a small fabric area to ensure no staining.

ARTICLE BY ROCIO MATA

SUPPLIES:

• 1 orange (sliced)

• 3–4 cinnamon sticks

• 1 tablespoon whole cloves

• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried)

• 4 star anise

• 4–6 cups boiling water (enough to cover ingredients)

• Small pot with lid

• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth

• Spray bottle (glass or BPA-free plastic)

DIRECTIONS:

1. Place the orange slices, cinnamon, cloves, rosemary, and star anise in a small pot of water.

2. Bring to a gentle simmer uncovered for 10–20 minutes until fragrant (longer for a stronger scent)

3. Reduce heat and steep until cool.

4. Once cooled, transfer the liquid to a spray bottle, label it, and mist as desired.

that’s a WRAP

DIY Gift Wrapping That Stands Out During The Season

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

‘TIS

‘Tis the season to get crafty, clever or characterized! Well-wrapped holiday packages create immediate enthusiasm and somehow seem to make gifts more meaningful. Whether going for shiny, vintage, colorful, rustic, playful or eco-friendly impressions, the following are some Do-ItYourself gift-wrapping ideas to make the wrapping process even more satisfying. Simply applying jute twine to gifts provides a ‘less is more’ vibe.

ADD NATURAL TOUCHES TO CRAFT PAPER:

For gifts with a rustic, organic feel, use seasonal accents, such as sprigs, pine cones and cinnamon sticks, tied up with twine, encircling recycled paper for the wrapping.

FIRST INITIAL DECORATION:

In lieu of a gift tag, attach an oversized paper mâché letter of the recipient’s first initial to the top of the box. The letter then can serve as customized décor, too.

POLKA DOTS:

Wrap gifts in plain craft paper and then cut out big, multicolored polka dots to glue down. It’s hard not to smile at big, bright dots.

CARDBOARD BOX SNOWPERSON:

Wrap three or four boxes in white paper, with different gifts inside, and then stack them. Tape the boxes together, tapering to the top. Glue buttons on the bottom ones, create a snowperson’s face on the top one, with carrot nose cut out of orange paper.

the SEASON

Attach a real hat, if desired. Tie wider, festive bow around the snowperson’s ‘neck.’ Add a real corncob pipe for a bonus finishing touch, if preferred.

MINI TREE GIFT WRAPPING:

Pine needles and small tips of real tree branches make quick and easy mini Christmas trees that can be glued onto Christmas gifts. They will smell nice, too.

BOOK PAGE WRAPPING PAPER:

Repurpose old book pages by cutting out shapes of dreidels, snowflakes, ornaments, candles or reindeer to paste on gifts.

DIY STAMP WRAPPING PAPER:

Wrap gifts in solid colors of paper. Secure ink stamps and an ink pad in a themed color(s), and stamp the paper as much or as little as desired.

UNBOXED:

Apply other types of containers, rather than boxes or bags, for gift wrapping; examples:  canisters, pillow cases, baskets, fabric scraps, maps, glass containers, towels, blankets, scarves, Bento bags (also called triangle bags or origami bags).

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DECEMBER 12TH

Imagine Ballet Theatre

Presents The Nutcracker

Imagine Ballet Theatre | 7:00 PM

Join us for the holiday tradition of Clara dancing through her meeting with the Rat King, the Snow Queen, and finally into the land of Sugarplum fair.

DECEMBER 13TH

Homemade Christmas Market

Golden Spike Arena | 10:00 AM

Support local artists and makers at the 4th annual Handmade Christmas Market. Discover unique, handcrafted treasures, including soaps, candles, crochet items, jewelry, home decor, quilts, and more. FREE!

DECEMBER 29TH

Cats & Dogs Art Camp

The Local Artisan | 10:00 AM

Do you love cats and dogs? Then this is the art camp for you! Paint and decorate your own cat mask, make a dog painting, or create a dog and a cat from clay.

The Confident Smile You Deserve

CONFECTION

Elevate your holiday hot chocolate with a charcuterie experience

As winter settles in and the air chills, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Take it up a notch and indulge in a hot cocoa charcuterie board. Picture a delightful spread of various hot chocolate flavors, mix-ins, and toppings, inviting you to create a personalized, delicious mug of joy.

OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA

Ingredients

• ¼ cup 60% cacao chocolate morsels

• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa

• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar

• 2 cups milk

• 2 cups half and half

• 1 pinch salt

• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions

Heat all ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-low heat until almost boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

CREATING THE PERFECT HOT COCOA CHARCUTERIE BOARD

Gone are the days of selecting only between marshmallows and whipped cream as toppings. With a hot cocoa charcuterie board, you can delve into a world of flavors, textures and spices that will make each sip an adventure.

Begin by selecting a variety of flavors and mix-ins, such as mini marshmallows, salted caramels, white chocolate morsels and peppermints. Pair your hot cocoa with delectable treats like cookies, gum drops, crème-filled wafer rolls or chocolate-covered espresso beans. Consider adding biscotti, chocolate-dipped spoons or chocolate-coated pretzels as well as whipped toppings and an assortment of sprinkles.