The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has documented a widening divide in preventable early deaths between urban and rural areas. In 1999, the death rate in rural areas was 7% higher than in urban areas. It was 20% higher in 2019.

The study looked at deaths from the top five leading causes in the U.S.: cancer, heart disease, stroke, unintentional injuries (including drug overdoses) and chronic lower respiratory disease. COVID-19 was among the top five causes of death for some of the study period but was not included.

The number of preventable deaths was calculated by comparing the average mortality rate for people under 80 with each condition in the three states with the lowest mortality. Deaths above that rate were considered preventable early deaths.

According to the study’s lead author, Macarena C. Garcia, “preventable early deaths from heart disease were consistently higher in rural counties before COVID-19, and the disparities widened between the most rural county category and suburban counties.”

The CDC attributes part of this disparity to age as rural populations are older on average than urban ones. Still, they wrote that “differences in social circumstances, socioeconomic characteristics, health-related behaviors, and access to health care services affect mortality and potentially contribute to approximately half of all preventable premature deaths.”

In Utah, a large barrier to health access in rural areas is recruiting. DeAnn Brown, director of Garfield Memorial Hospital in Panguitch, Utah, said her hospital “just had one of our physicians who was going to retire. We figure it’s going to take us probably at least 18 months, if not longer, to find somebody with the qualifications.”

Because of staffing, the hospital had to cancel its mobile clinic this summer. In previous years it went to remote areas to treat patients who live more than an hour away from the hospital.

When it comes to getting specialty care, transportation is even more of a challenge in remote areas. Garfield Memorial can’t provide it, so “those people who live out in Escalante or Boulder would have to travel probably to Cedar City, which is about two to 2.5 hours for them. If they go to St. George, they’re adding another hour or so. That would be the closest specialist.”

The hospital in Garfield County already provides – and hopes to expand access to – telehealth. That allows patients to see a doctor for smaller issues from their homes without a long trip to a clinic. Still, Brown said in those contexts “it’s difficult if a physician or provider needs to put hands on a patient–look in their ears or listen to their heart.”

And, she said, people just don’t come in and get help when they need it. Sometimes that’s because of severe economic struggles – and a lot of people don’t have insurance.

Other times, it’s a cultural thing.

“They’re just kind of a tough kind of population and put up with stuff and, and learn to get by when maybe they should seek help.”

Copyright 2024 KUER 90.1

SANTAQUIN — In the wake of the death of Sgt. Bill Hooser on Sunday, several Utah County police agencies are working to fill the shifts of the Santaquin Police Department and staff.   

The Utah County Sheriff’s Office says it created a google document, so other agencies can sign in and fill any shifts needed so the Santaquin officers can get some much-needed time off. 

Utah County Sheriff Mike Smith told KSL TV he believes they have most of the shifts covered for the entire department through Wednesday. Santaquin has 15 full-time officers and two civilian staff members. 

“It’s hit us hard,” Smith said of Hooser’s death. 

Several members of law enforcement said it’s just one way this Utah County law enforcement community works together. 

“In Utah County, it’s one big jurisdiction. That’s how we look at it,” said Lone Peak Police Chief Brian Gwilliam. “It’s a big family, we’re all brothers and sisters.” 

Smith said the teamwork isn’t just “lip service,” but rather an example of how the agencies collaborate daily. 

“On a daily basis, we work as a team,” Smith said. “We stress that. We meet — the chiefs and myself — we meet once a month in person and there’s a weekly meeting.” 

Working together can save lives

The collaboration, he says, can save lives. 

“Criminals – they don’t care what city line they cross. They, you know, they go from city to city. And so we need to be working together to make sure that we’re providing the right service,” Smith said. 

Officers from Lone Peak, Spanish Fork, Payson, Provo, The Sheriff’s Office, and even Utah Valley University and Brigham Young University came out to support Hooser and his family Monday. The comrade on display as a processional brought Hooser’s casket from Taylorsville back to Santaquin.  

“(Sunday) was an incredibly chaotic day, a lot of things happen really quickly, a lot of information needed to be gathered and a lot of information needed to be put out. A lot of resources need to be collaborated to be able to identify this dangerous individual that had done something really, really horrible and making sure he didn’t get the opportunity to do that again,” said Utah Highway Patrol Col. Michael Rapich.  

That law enforcement family, and those relationships not only stopped a suspect from hurting more people, they will also now help to buoy up a devastated family. 

“(We’ll work to) just feel their pain and just kind of put our arms around them as one collective community and to show how much we love them,” Gwilliam said.  

The blustery start to this week’s weather might not indicate it, but stay strong, warmer temps are just around the corner; and with them – the Summer festival season. While we wait for the mercury to rise, now is the perfect time to pencil in a few dates for the months ahead. With that in mind, here’s a look ahead to a range of events with a strong food/drink component at their core:

Living Traditions 2024

May 17th – 19th
Washington Square / Library Park, downtown SLC
Free entrance
saltlakearts.org/programs/living-traditions-festival

This multi-day celebration of Utah’s cultural landscape always marks the start of festival season, and this year is no exception. As per usual, the event is anchored by a mix of food vendors showcasing the eclectic diversity of cuisine (pictured top) in our state. Here’s the complete press release on what to expect this year:

. . .

The Living Traditions Festival program has been announced and is now live at livingtraditionsfestival.com. Utahns are invited to enjoy the diverse multicultural offerings of food, live performances, and art from the many cultures that have made Utah their home. The event will be held on May 17-19 at Washington and Library Square. We will have hands-on workshops, food demos, kids activities, Sundance film screenings, and beer tastings by Bohemian Brewery. The program features live music, performing artists, craft artists, and food vendors, some of whom have been participating since the first festival in 1986! Admission is free for all event attendees.

On Friday, May 17th, festival headliner Geno Delafose & French Rockin’ Boogie will perform. A trailblazer in the genre, Delafose has pioneered the sound nouveau zydeco, blending traditional Creole music with influences from Cajun, country, and western genres. Notably, he received a Grammy Award nomination in the ‘Best Zydeco Or Cajun Music Album’ category for his acclaimed album, ‘Le Cowboy Creole.

The Living Traditions Festival supports diverse artistic traditions and perspectives through the presentation of both historical and contemporary customs. By facilitating thoughtful conversations around the unique qualities of various cultures and the similarities of the human experience, community bonds are created. Salt Lake City has supported Living Traditions for over 30 years. The contributions from the City and sponsors are essential to ensuring the festival remains free and accessible. 

Summer Farmer’s Market

June 1st – October 19th, 8.00 a.m. – 2.00 p.m. 
Pioneer Park, 300 South 300 West
Free
slcfarmersmarket.org/saturday-farmers-market

The Pioneer Park market is a showcase for “farmers and producers offer the freshest local fruits and vegetables as well as a wide variety of grass-fed meats, eggs, dairy, honey, and flora, along with the region’s best locally made sauces, spreads, baked goods and culinary accouterments.”

All vendors must operate within 250 miles of the market and alongside a mind-boggling slew of stalls – the market also offers a food alley of small businesses to help fuel your exploration. Here’s a look at what to expect when the market hits its stride.

Savor The Summit

June 22nd
Main Street, Park City
Price varies
parkcityrestaurants.com/savor-the-summit

One of the biggest Park City bashes of the year, this Main Street party of restaurants unfurls all along historic Main Street – top to bottom. Each business typically provided a unique menu for the evening with suitable drink pairings. To attend you’ll need to contact restaurants directly to reserve a seat at their al fresco table. Word to the wise: this one sells out exceptionally fast every year.

The following fifteen names are confirmed for 2024 so far: Bangkok Thai on Main, Courchevel Bistro, Deer Valley Resort, Dilécta Wines, Don Gallo, Firewood On Main, Flanagan’s Irish Pub & Restaurant, Fletcher’s Park City, KANEO, Purple Sage, Riverhorse On Main, Shabu, The Eating Establishment, The Mustang, Top of Main Brew Pub

Utah Asian Festival

June 8th, 11.00 a.m. – 8.00 p.m.
Utah State Fairpark
Free entrance
utahasianfestival.org

Back for the 47th year and headed back to last year’s venue. Here’s the full information from the organizers on what to expect.

. . .

Our event benefits all Utahns, offering a glimpse at how traditional practices have been preserved and upheld in our state. This festival not only connects new Americans, immigrants, and refugees to the more historic ethnic groups in our state, but also brings our diverse ethnic communities together.

Our celebration is an opportunity for all to reunite with old friends; build new friendships; meet our various communities, leaders, and elders; and seek new opportunities to be involved and support our diverse Utah Asian communities.

This year’s festival will honor our communities through traditional and modern performances, children’s activities, and spotlights on cultural, nonprofit, and commercial organizations. As always, food trucks and food booths featuring local businesses will be on site serving delicious food and refreshments. We’ve listened to your feedback and are actively working to bring you the best event possible!

Mega Peruvian Festival

July 26th – 27th
Millcreek Common
Free
facebook.com/fiestas.delperu

Back again, this year moving on from the downtown library location of last year. There’s little information on precise details beyond the date and destination as I write, but organizers confirm, “FREE ADMISSION!! The 2024 Peruvian Festival, Let’s celebrate the Peruvian Culture with folklore, arts, live music and arguably the best food in the world; The Peruvian cuisine is held in high esteem for their anomalous and complex dishes that give visitors a taste of this unique culture.”

Indian Food Fair

August 5th, 11.00 a.m. – 8.00 p.m.
Liberty Park Salt Lake City
Free admission
indianfoodfairs.com

2024 will be the fifth iteration of this particular event. Specific details have yet to be released but the event always features multiple food vendors to enjoy.

Greek Festival

September 6th – 8th
Holy Trinity Cathedral
$5 admission, kids 5 and under free
saltlakecitygreekfestival.com

A Utah institution, and of course, back again this year. The three-day festival has a solid food offering celebrating Greek culinary tradition, gyro through galaktoboureko. The organizers write:

. . .

The Salt Lake Greek Festival is the 2^nd largest cultural festival in Utah and the largest Greek Festival West of the Mississippi.  Experience Hellenism and Orthodoxy as we showcase our delicious food, spectacular dancers, hospitality and our Orthodox faith through beautifully guided tours of our amazing Cathedral and museum.  It is my hope that this years festival will be the biggest and best ever!  So, as we say in Greek, Kalos-orisate (welcome,) and Kali-dia-ske-tha-si, (have a great visit.)

City Weekly Beer Festival

August 17th – 18th, 2.00 p.m. 8.00 p.m.
The Gateway
Prices vary
utahbeerfestival.com

This one surely needs no introduction. Utah’s biggest beer bash heads to The Gateway again for 2024. This year’s event reprises its 2023 location over at The Gateway.

Eat Drink SLC

September 11th – 12th
Tracy Aviary
Price TBA
eatdrinkslc.com

This year will mark a decade for EDSLC, again being held over two different evenings (separate tickets required for each night), with each night featuring different local restaurants; ably supported by a raft of wine markers, brewers, and distillers. I don’t believe tickets are live for this one yet, but they typically sell out very quickly indeed. Be sure to join the email list on their site to avoid missing out.

. . .

Eat Drink SLC raises awareness about Salt Lake’s finest culinary and cultural opportunities. Our vision is to engage patrons with the marriage of food and drink, and share stories about how it evolves, adapts, and innovates. Filled with tastes, art, people, and joy, Eat Drink is a welcoming, inclusive event for all the senses.

Eat Drink is hosted by nonprofit partnership between Tracy Aviary and SB Dance. These two organizations represent, respectively, a place and an arts-maker that contribute to the unique character of our community. 33% of net proceeds supports these two organizations. 66% of proceeds is contributed to a third local nonprofit that works with underserved communities. This community beneficiary has included Women of the World, Neighborhood House, and Race Swami.

By supporting place, arts-making, and community service, Eat Drink SLC’s mission is to honor the entire industry, from customers, business owners, managers, and servers to purveyors and agricultural workers. Since inception, Eat Drink has contributed over $100,000 to Salt Lake County nonprofits.

Festa Italiana

Another Gateway-hosted event is back again this year. Vendors are still to be confirmed, but lovers of all things Italian won’t want to miss this September festival.

September 14th – 15th
The Gateway
Free entrance
festaitalianaslc.com

Park City Wine Festival

October 3rd – 5th
Park City
Price varies
parkcitywinefest.com

Bookmarking the end of the festival season, one for the wine lovers out there. Here’s the official presser from the organizers about the three-day extravaganza.

. . .

The highly anticipated Fifth Annual Park City Wine Festival, the ultimate food and wine festival that brings wine experts and epicurean lovers together every year in beautiful Park City, returns October 3-5. After its inaugural smash success last year, Wine is Blind is returning and the festival is introducing another brand new event – Rarities & Reserve – which brings exclusive, hard-to-find wines to attendees. Due to the popularity of the all-inclusive wine tastings, Park City Wine Festival is continuing to host a second Grand Tasting session on Saturday. Tickets for the Grand Tastings, Best of Fest, Wine Is Blind and Rarities & Reserve are on sale now via Eventbrite. Paired wine lunches and dinners, somm-led hikes, and other add-on experiences will be announced in June.

Park City Wine Festival allows imbibers to sip, swirl, and savor wine from more than 100 international wineries from California to France at the Grand Tastings, while taking in breathtaking views of Park City’s fall beauty. Mix and mingle with winemakers and vintners, immerse yourself in the world of wine during expertly paired lunches and dinners throughout the weekend, add some adventure with a paired wine hike, and participate in events like Wine Is Blind, a new collective experience that reveals your favorite wine without preconceived notions.

“Every year, visitors show off that they’re hungry – and thirsty – for more Park City Wine Festival activations. We’ve added on new sessions and large-scale events to accommodate the growing demand. As always, the event does sell out, so we recommend buying your tickets ASAP,” said Park City Wine Festival Events Director Kristen Slater.

Not happening this year?

Salt Lake City Wine & Dine – This Instgram post by the Tribune-backed food and wine explains the event has been postpooed until 2025.

Taco Fest 2024 – According to this Eventbrite listing, the 2024 edition of this one has been cancelled.

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Hi, I’m Stuart, nice to meet you!  I’m the founder, writer and wrangler at Gastronomic SLC.  I’m a multiple-award winning journalist and have written in myopic detail about the Salt Lake City  dining scene for the better part of seventeen years.

I’ve worked extensively with multiple local publications from Visit Salt Lake to Salt Lake Magazine, not least helped to consult on national TV.   Pause those credits, yep, that’s me! I’m also a former restaurant critic of more than five years, working for the Salt Lake Tribune.    I’m largely fueled by a critical obsession with rice, alliteration and the use of big words I don’t understand.   What they’re saying about me: “Not inaccurate”, “I thought he was older”, “I don’t share his feelings”.

Want to know more? This is why I am the way I am.