Rediscovering Sound: A Heartwarming Journey with Mountain West Hearing Center

In the heart of Salt Lake City lived Judith, a vibrant 32-year-old mother of seven-year-old Carlos and newborn Juan. Judith’s joyful demeanor masked the profound hearing loss she’d had since birth. Her life was largely silent, filled only with the imagined sounds of her family. Determined to improve her hearing, Judith researched her options and, upon seeing the glowing recommendations, chose to visit Mountain West Hearing Center in Millcreek, known for the compassionate care of audiologists Faye Mitsunaga and Karyn Hodge.

Faye Mitsunaga’s impressive credentials and deep roots in the community influenced Judith’s decision. Faye, who grew up in Salt Lake City, earned her BA degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology from the University of Utah and her MA degree in Audiology from the University of California, Santa Barbara. With over 35 years of experience, Faye is a fellow of the American Academy of Audiology and board certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Her extensive background includes the diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss, hearing aid evaluation and aural rehabilitation, vestibular and balance testing, newborn screening, tinnitus treatment, and ear protection.

Karyn Hodge, AuD, CCC-A, also brought impressive qualifications. She received her BS degree from the University of Utah and her Doctor of Audiology from A.T. Still University. Karyn is board certified through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and is a fellow with the American Academy of Audiology. She has experience with balance testing, audiological evaluations, hearing aid selection, aural rehabilitation, and tinnitus management for patients of all ages.

With her infant cradled in her arms and Carlos by her side, Judith entered the clinic with a mix of hope and trepidation. Carlos, wise beyond his years, stood proudly as his mother’s interpreter. Dr. Karyn Hodge greeted them warmly and led Judith through a comprehensive audiological evaluation.

The evaluation consisted of several diagnostic tests. First, Pure Tone Testing measured Judith’s ability to hear sounds of various pitches and volumes through air conduction. Wearing headphones, Judith identified a series of tones, and the results were charted on an audiogram, which showed the type, degree, and configuration of her hearing loss. Next, Bone Conduction Testing measured her inner ear’s response to sound by bypassing the outer and middle ear and directly stimulating the auditory nerve. This test helped determine whether Judith’s hearing loss was conductive or sensorineural. Additionally, Judith underwent Tympanometry testing, which tested her middle ear’s response to air pressure to further pinpoint the type and location of her hearing problem.

Karyn, with Carlos’s help, explained the results and discussed the possibility of hearing aids, but Judith’s heart sank at the cost, knowing it was beyond her means. Her disappointment was clear as she thought of never hearing her children’s voices. Seeing her distress, Karyn consulted with Faye and returned with older, reconditioned hearing aids in excellent condition, offering them as a temporary solution. Judith’s eyes filled with gratitude as Karyn placed the hearing aids in her ears and turned them on. Hearing Carlos and her newborn for the first time, Judith’s eyes widened, and tears streamed down her face as she embraced her son, the room filled with emotion.

Years passed, and Judith’s life transformed as she could now hear her children’s laughter, her husband’s loving words, and everyday sounds that had eluded her. The family’s immense gratitude for the gift of hearing led them to save diligently for the best hearing aids available. Returning to the clinic with her husband, Judith’s journey and their decision to invest in top-of-the-line hearing aids deeply moved Faye and Karyn. When Judith was fitted with the new devices, her auditory world became even clearer and richer, allowing her to hear the subtleties in her children’s voices, the gentle rustle of leaves, and her husband’s whispered words.

Tears of joy once again flowed, and they were shared by the entire family. Judith thanked Karyn and Faye not just for the hearing aids but for giving her a gift that transformed her life. Her journey from silence to sound was a testament to the power of hope, love, and perseverance. The simple act of hearing had woven her family closer together, enriching their lives with the sounds of everyday life.

When Kit and Ava Gray bought their home in Sandy, one of the major selling points was the large backyard. They dreamed of having a space to entertain, imagining lively backyard parties and elegant dinner events. However, over the past few years, the yard slowly became too much for them to manage and transformed into a tangled mess of overgrown grasses and weeds. What was once their favorite aspect of the property had become an eyesore, something they both avoided as much as possible. After spending an evening in a friend’s beautifully landscaped backyard, Kit and Ava spent the entire drive home wistfully discussing how they wished they had a similar space, rekindling their old dreams. They spent the next few weeks brainstorming ideas and finally decided they were ready to turn their abandoned space into a haven they could enjoy. Not knowing where to start, they reached out to a professional for help.

Their journey began with a phone consultation to discuss their project goals, location, and budget. Black Diamond leads the industry with a process-driven approach that ensures full understanding between both Black Diamond and its clients. The Grays were thrilled to discover that Black Diamond Landscape and Lighting prioritized longevity and low maintenance, helping them envision a yard they could relax and enjoy without the stress of constant upkeep or unexpected expenses. 

Next, the team at Black Diamond visited the Grays’ property to discuss their vision and project goals more thoroughly. The Grays were assigned a dedicated designer who helped them create a wish list for the project, complete with specific pricing. This allowed them to establish a budget that fit their needs. The Black Diamond team took accurate measurements of the project space to ensure precise figures for a comprehensive, line-itemed estimate. Kit liked the meticulous approach, and Ava was pleased to see such transparency throughout the process.

Since a low-maintenance yard was a priority, they decided to remove much of the grass, creating an eco-friendly, water-wise yard. The new design included a large flagstone patio with ample dining space and expansive flower beds filled with native flowers that wouldn’t require much care. The Grays were surprised to learn that Black Diamond were not only experts in landscaping but also had a deep understanding of current rebate programs. They introduced the Grays to Localscapes, a program designed to help Utahns reduce their water consumption in practical ways. By removing much of the unnecessary grass, the Grays qualified for significant rebates, reducing the overall project cost. Initially, they were worried that this would result in an unattractive, concrete-heavy yard. However, they were pleasantly surprised to see that the proposed changes included a large, beautiful cottage garden, a dining area, a fire pit, a water feature, and a reasonable area of grass. The layout made the area more accessible and easier to maintain. The Grays were impressed that their designer approached problems not just from a business standpoint but also from the customers’ perspective.

The transformation process began with clearing the overgrown weeds and grasses, followed by carefully laying out the flagstone patio and flower beds. The team worked diligently, ensuring each element of the design was perfectly executed. Kit and Ava were kept informed throughout the entire process, knowing exactly what would happen each step of the way.

The yard turned out beautifully. What was once an eyesore and a giant to-do list was now a lovely, easy-to-maintain, desirable space. The Grays loved using the space for hosting parties and found themselves enjoying the area just the two of them as well. The space was beautiful, and they were so glad they chose to work with Black Diamond. It was evident that the team was educated, hardworking, and honest.

In the end, Kit and Ava felt they got a good return on their investment. Black Diamond Landscape and Lighting was worth every penny, transforming their neglected backyard into a stunning, functional space that exceeded their expectations.

With their 15th anniversary just around the corner, Miles wanted to do something extra special to celebrate with his wife, Traci. His number one priority? Finding something relaxing they could enjoy together. Traci had been working long hours recently, seemed stressed, and needed pampering. With both of them busy with work, it had been a while since they had really connected, and Miles wanted to find something they could do together. He worried about finding a spa that could accommodate their desire to stay together, so he was thrilled when he discovered The Spa Lounge. This day spa not only offered multiple couples options but also boasted a high-end, luxurious experience without the outrageous pricing typically found at upscale spas. Miles was also pleased to learn that The Spa Lounge was locally owned.

Salt Lake residents Greg and Diana Lovato are the owners of The Spa Lounge. This couple purchased a previously failing day spa in 2015 and successfully grew it to over 130 employees and three locations. Diana has a background in Massage Therapy and has worked at some of Utah’s highest-rated spas, including Red Mountain in St George and Cliff Lodge in SLC. Greg was an IT Executive until he retired in 2023.

The need for relaxation is at an all-time high. Stress negatively affects all aspects of mental and physical health, often leading to chronic disease. The Spa Lounge wants to make relaxation services available for everyone. All customers are offered a luxurious experience, including customized lockers, robes, and slippers, in addition to a relaxing lounge area. As a full-service day spa, they offer massage therapy, aesthetics (facials, lash lifts, waxing, teeth whitening, etc.), and nail services.

Membership requirements are common, and Miles was surprised to learn that The Spa Lounge didn’t require a monthly membership. Curious, he asked the receptionist how they managed to be so successful when many other day spas insisted memberships were required to stay afloat. The receptionist explained that from the beginning, it had been a priority to provide amazing services to customers without limitations. They aim to make luxury spa services affordable and accessible to everyone without the need for a membership. This unique business model has paid off, with many customers remaining loyal since the spa’s opening, visiting monthly, if not weekly, and frequently referring new clients.

The Spa Lounge was exactly what Miles was looking for to celebrate their anniversary. It provided a high-end, luxurious spa experience without costing a fortune. Additionally, because The Spa Lounge offered such a large variety of services, Miles and Traci were able to create a fully custom day of relaxation. It was a wonderful experience, giving both Miles and Traci the chance to unwind, connect with each other, and celebrate the life they had built. As they left, Traci was already talking about how great the experience was and mentioned bringing her sisters back when they visited the next month. They both joked that if there were more locations, they’d send everyone they knew. Fortunately, The Spa Lounge has plans to expand, with 6–10 new locations expected to open throughout Utah over the next 3–5 years.

Cameo College of Essential Beauty, a cherished institution now located in Murray, has been a leader in beauty education since the 1950s. Founded by Gail Reddick and her husband, the college has always been a family-run endeavor, dedicated to empowering students through education and professional development.

Initially training about 15 students at a time in Cosmetology, the college expanded its offerings under Gail’s visionary leadership to include Electrolysis. Electrolysis, a beauty treatment that permanently removes unwanted hair using electrical currents, was relatively new and not widely available. Gail recognized the growing demand for this effective hair removal method and saw an opportunity to bring it to Utah. By becoming the first and only accredited school in the state to offer training in Electrolysis, Cameo College positioned itself as a pioneer in the beauty education field. This accreditation ensured that students received high-quality, standardized training, making them well-prepared professionals in a specialized area of beauty treatment. The introduction of electrolysis at Cameo College not only expanded the school’s curriculum but also provided a valuable service to the community, helping individuals achieve smooth, hair-free skin and enhancing their overall appearance. Over 60 years later, Cameo College is still the only accredited school in Utah to provide such training.

Brenda Scharman, Gail’s daughter, joined her family’s business at just 18 years old, when she became a licensed Electrologist. Following Gail’s passing in 1986, Brenda took over, once again broadening the curriculum, introducing Nail Technology, Microblading/Permanent Cosmetics, Makeup Artistry, Laser Technology, Master Esthetics, and a Medical Esthetics Division. Brenda’s influence extends beyond Cameo College; she is a commissioner for the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS) and actively participates in legislative actions affecting the beauty education industry nationwide.

Rickie Mehl, Brenda’s daughter, continues the family legacy as the college’s current School Director and Education Director. With over 17 years of experience running an independent salon and spa, Rickie has been part of the educational team at Cameo since 1990. She specializes in Permanent Cosmetics Education and teaches various programs, ensuring that students receive comprehensive and practical training.

Looking to the future, Cameo College focuses on hands-on learning with real clients, providing students with diverse and quality experiences. Serving over 4,000 guests monthly, the college aims to foster confidence, passion, and financial independence in its students. Whether fresh out of high school or seeking a new career chapter, students at Cameo College find a supportive environment that celebrates their growth and achievements.

Beauty has the power to transform lives, build relationships, and enhance well-being. At Cameo College, students and clients are treated as individuals with unique stories and potential. They invite everyone to explore the opportunities at Cameo College—whether considering a career in beauty or looking for professional services at the student salon, everyone will find a welcoming community dedicated to excellence and personal growth. Visit them and experience the power of beauty education at Cameo College of Essential Beauty.

In the spring of 2019, Nora Rivera took a bold step toward her future by purchasing her first home, a small rambler nestled in the heart of Midvale. The house, although charming, was a bit of a fixer-upper. Over the next few years, Nora immersed herself in the world of home improvement, learning to repair sprinklers, paint walls, and gradually transform the house into a reflection of her personality and style. She loved everything about her home, with one glaring exception—the kitchen. The generic, outdated feel of the space nagged at her, and she dreamed of bright, modern cabinets that would breathe new life into the heart of her home.

Nora spent countless evenings scrolling through Pinterest, curating a collection of her dream kitchen ideas. She saved diligently, determined to make her vision a reality. After researching several local companies, she stumbled upon AMC Building Materials. The company, established in 2015, had quickly built a reputation for excellence, thanks in no small part to the owner, Sunny Li, who brought over 20 years of experience in cabinet design. The owner’s frequent attendance at international architectural shows, KBIS, and Canton Fairs ensured that AMC stayed ahead of the curve, regularly introducing new and trendy product selections.

Nora was thrilled to discover that AMC carried an extensive product line, which meant she could build her dream kitchen exactly as she envisioned. What truly sealed the deal for her was learning that AMC was a woman-owned business. It felt right to support a company that mirrored her values and ambitions.

Armed with a hopeful heart, Nora scheduled a consultation with AMC. Although she thought she knew what she wanted, she was surprised to learn just how many details went into selecting kitchen cabinets. The knowledgeable sales team guided her through the various types of cabinets, from framed to frameless, and explained the pros and cons of each. They discussed door styles, such as the classic raised panel, the sleek slab, and the versatile shaker, each option offering a different aesthetic and functionality.

Nora was particularly fascinated by the soft-close drawers, a modern feature that prevented slamming and extended the life of the cabinets. The team also introduced her to different materials and finishes, from durable laminate to elegant solid wood, and a myriad of color options that could transform her kitchen into a work of art. The breadth of choices was overwhelming, but the AMC team patiently helped her navigate them, ensuring she felt confident in her decisions.  Nora was also delighted to discover that AMC, being a one-stop shop, provided beautiful countertops, eliminating the hassle of coordinating with multiple subcontractors.

A major advantage of AMC was their ready stock, enabling Nora’s to complete her project much faster than many other companies she had considered. While other shops quoted turnaround times of several months, AMC guaranteed a swift and efficient process, allowing her to enjoy her new kitchen much sooner. The entire process, including the installation of cabinets and countertops, took just two weeks.

As the final touches were completed, Nora stood back and marveled at her transformed kitchen. It was even better than she had anticipated. The bright, modern cabinets made the space feel open and inviting, and the updated countertops added a touch of elegance. Her kitchen had become her favorite space in the home, a place where she could cook, entertain, and create memories.

Nora’s satisfaction with AMC Building Materials went beyond just the quality of their work. Working with a dependable and dedicated team had been a relief, and she was already daydreaming about her next project. With her kitchen now a stunning centerpiece of her home, she has set her sights on a full remodel of her primary bath, confident that AMC will once again bring her vision to life.

In the heart of 2020, amidst the chaos and uncertainty of a global pandemic, Natalie Curry-Sloot, Annie Fonnesbeck, and Erin Smith decided to defy industry norms and create something remarkable. These determined women pooled their diverse talents and experiences to found Blue Best Heating and Air, Plumbing, and Generators. Their mission was clear: to build a customer-focused home services company that operated with fairness, honesty, and integrity in an industry often marred by distrust and unethical practices.

Natalie Curry-Sloot, a dedicated mother of two daughters, transitioned from a successful career in health care to manage the day-to-day operations of Blue Best. Her extensive background in customer service ensures that every client interaction is handled with the utmost care and respect. During peak times, she even steps in as a salesperson, showcasing her versatility and commitment to the company’s success.

Annie Fonnesbeck, with a master’s degree in Bioengineering, expertly balances her day job working on medical devices with her nighttime responsibilities at Blue Best. She is in charge of certifications, licensing, processes, procedures, social media, and IT. Her meticulous approach, honed in the highly regulated medical field, has transformed Blue Best into an organized and efficient operation.

Erin Smith, a mother of six, brought her vast experience in business consulting, recruiting, and marketing to Blue Best. She is responsible for hiring top talent and ensuring that the company’s marketing efforts are both effective and ethical. Erin’s hands-on approach and business acumen played a crucial role in establishing Blue Best as a trustworthy and customer-centric business.

The benefits of a women-run business are immediately apparent in the way Blue Best operates. Unlike typical companies in the trades industry that focus on “service turnovers” to generate leads—often recommending costly replacements over affordable repairs—Blue Best prioritizes honesty and transparency. Their innovative approach involves cutting out unnecessary intermediate steps and tailoring their marketing to attract customers who genuinely need new systems. This method not only builds trust but also protects consumers from the predatory practices that have drawn the attention of the Federal Trade Commission and state regulators.

Success at Blue Best isn’t measured solely by financial metrics. The company takes immense pride in their customer satisfaction, reflected in over 1,600 five-star reviews on Google in June 2024. This stellar reputation, with an average customer rating of 5.0, is unprecedented in the industry and a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to excellence.

Blue Best’s all-female ownership and operation are revolutionary in the trades industry. They work tirelessly to prove that women are not only capable but also invaluable in this sector. This message resonates widely, earning the respect and admiration of customers, vendors, and business partners alike. Inviting a stranger into one’s home is a big risk, and the team at Blue Best understands the stress that can bring. They’re dedicated to ensuring safety and security, requiring rigorous background checks in order to protect customers and their families. They get it, and they want everyone to feel safe.

The women of Blue Best don’t stop at transforming their industry. They are also dedicated to giving back to the community. In a groundbreaking move, Blue Best recently launched a scholarship program to encourage more women to enter the trades. Each year, they sponsor the tuition, books, and fees for a female student enrolled in the HVAC program at Davis Applied Tech, demonstrating their commitment to fostering new talent and supporting women in a male-dominated field.

Drawing on vast experiences from healthcare, bioengineering, and business consulting allows them to surround themselves with the best talent in the industry. This unique approach enables them to fine-tune their business practices and seize opportunities that others might overlook. By ensuring that the right people are in the right positions, Blue Best has become a juggernaut in the home services industry.

In just a few short years, Natalie, Annie, and Erin built Blue Best to be a leader of integrity and excellence. Their story is a powerful example of what can be achieved when diverse talents and unwavering dedication come together to challenge the status quo and create something truly exceptional.

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by Dr Scott Thompson

When Dr. Scott Thompson established Utah Facial Plastics (UFP) in 2006, he was fortunate to find two exceptional individuals in Jenny Yergensen and Jessica Martinez. With a pledge to “be a positive force in the lives of our patients” documented in the UFP mission statement, they got to work to create something special.

Now, almost 20 years later, with the help of two outstanding surgeons, several nurse practitioners and nurses, and nearly 60 other employees, they work hard to make a difference in the lives of their patients and the local and global communities. Each member of the UFP team is committed to the same goals and values.

When asked what makes UFP different, Dr. Thompson stated that “At UFP, every member of our team is committed to our core values of safety, compassion, results, integrity, professionalism, and teamwork. That’s what makes us special and is the reason that we continually receive feedback and reviews from our patients that not only did they achieve outstanding results with their procedure or surgery, but that the experience was special and that it was clear that each member of the team truly cares about their patients.”

UFP services range from cosmetic and reconstructive surgery to skin care and injectables to hair restoration. They even have a freestanding accredited operating room facility.  

Not only is UFP a leader in facial cosmetic and reconstructive procedures in the intermountain west, but Drs. Thompson, Henstrom, and Manning regularly perform humanitarian work overseas where they help children and adults with various facial deformities. Dr. Thompson was committed to serving in this way well before he graduated from medical school, and he was happy to find two other surgeons who are similarly committed to helping others. Over the past 20 years, they have served the people of Ecuador, Peru, Guatemala, and Vietnam.

Organizations with which they work include the HUGS (Help us Give Smiles) Foundation, MMFC (Medical Missions for Children), and The Hirsche Smiles Foundation. “I’ve found over the years of doing medical missions that medical professionals at all levels who are committed to humanitarian work possess a fundamental compassion and concern for others that is not always present in the medical community at large,” states Dr. Thompson. “They tend to see their professions more as a calling than a job, and this makes a big difference in the quality of care that is delivered. We see this difference every day at UFP.”

In addition to global humanitarian work, the UFP team is committed to giving back to the local community (beyond the exceptional care that they provide for their patients each day). Recently, members of the UFP team gathered on a Saturday morning at a local homeless youth center and prepared breakfast for dozens of struggling youths. Many of these 18- to 23-year-olds have aged out of the foster care system and have minimal resources available to help them progress in life. The team was impacted deeply by their smiles and gratitude, and UFP immediately committed to more volunteer time in the future.

Utah Facial Plastics is the Best of SLC for a reason. Their commitment to excellence and compassion is making a difference both locally and globally, and UFP is truly a treasure to our Utah community.