As a life long PBS viewer, I had the opportunity to volunteer for the Antiques Roadshow 2025 filming tour. Salt Lake City made the list this year! And while I entered the lottery to win tickets…as I had many times in the past, an email from PBS notified members that volunteers would be behind the scenes and ability to have two items appraised as a thank you. How could I pass that up?

Early start to the day at Red Butte Garden before guests arrive at 7:30am to have their items appraised!

Thankfully, my side gig with Salt Lake County Health Department offers ample vacation leave to schedule time off for this 12+ hour volunteer day. I met wonderful people from all over the country and was assigned to the Production Crew. My role was runner between the Green Room and filming set (located near Red Butte’s Rose garden) where guests, who had some of the finest items, were being filmed.

There were ample breaks, the director and crew were kind and friendly, and I had no problem completing the day since standing is much more comfortable than sitting. Remember, artificial joints love to move and our bodies are designed to be active! I saw people much younger than myself, among the crew and volunteers, who tired quickly and didn’t take advantage of down time to stretch and recharge. Packing my own food was ideal since the catering didn’t include any fresh vegetables or fruit…what a shame! AR production staff did pick up some oranges and bananas which were passed over by others in favor of the pile of junk food - dietary choices make a significant difference in how we feel and perform. I left the event feeling refreshed and energized whereas others, who had been running on excess caffeine and sugar, left the day feeling exhausted. Eating a whole food and plant based diet makes a difference!