Bountiful/West Bountiful Journal | January 2022

SERVICE PROJECT HELPS KIDS WHO NEED A LITTLE EXTRA LOVE

Byline By Becky Ginos | becky.g@davisjournal.com

BOUNTIFUL—It could be a child in the hospital, in foster care or a baby in the NICU, anyone who needs a little extra love and comfort. Those are the kids Boulton Elementary sixth graders are trying to help by making blankets.

“It’s kids who need a hug,” said Karen Marcus with Project Linus as she showed the students her blankets and gave them instructions on how to make them. “Maybe they go to foster care and the kids have been abused and pulled from their home. They have nothing of their own. Think of those who are getting them.”

One boy wanted to make blankets for his Eagle project, she said, “He got a blanket as a kid. He said, ‘I can just give blankets to the hospital and pay it forward.’”

Marcus told the kids a story about a girl who was being bullied. “She decided to make a blanket for the bully. You don’t know what’s going on in someone else’s life. The bully just needed a hug. They’re friends now.”

At first, Marcus said her 86-year-old mother didn’t want to make blankets. “She was just sitting in front of the TV. She needed something to do while she was watching

TV and started making blankets. Now it gives her purpose.”

Project Linus gave 2,000 blankets last year, said Marcus. “More and more are needed.”

“We’ve done six baby sized to teen boys blankets,” said SEM teacher Kirsten McNeal. “We’ll do blankets for the rest of the year. We’re going to buy more fabric and yarn with the donation we received last year. The students are really inspired to do more and do better.”

“I think it’s really beneficial,” said sixth grader Gibson Freeman. “It’s a great cause. I really like people and they really need this.”

The students are also working on collecting backpacks with school supplies for Lifting Hands International. “They’re for children of refugee families that have nothing,” said McNeal. “They’re sent around the world.”

At the beginning of the year the kids made posters and fliers to get donations, she said. “Last year we did this for Ukraine. The kids got stories back from the children. It was nice for them to know that somebody cared, that another child cares.”l

Student council members hold up blankets they’ve been working on to give to Project Linus. Photo by Becky Ginos

Gold medalists break the sound barrier aboard Thunderbirds

By Becky Ginos becky.g@davisjournal.com

“It was so insane,” said Caldwell when she was back on firm ground. “I didn’t know if I’d keep my food down. I can’t believe these guys do this all the time. It was tense.”

“It was crazy,” said Schoenefeld. “It was like an elephant on your chest and your vision goes away for a minute. We were going 4G’s and I thought that was crazy then we went faster and I thought ‘oh gee.’”

It was a real treat, said Lt. Col. RyanYingling. “It was unique and fun for us and fun for you guys. It was a blast. We got through everything and went into super sonic airspace and broke the sound barrier.” They started training on the F-16 early this morning, said Jake Impellizzeri, Thunderbird eight. “It was information by firehose. I putAshley through the wringer. We pulled 9G’s and 1.28 Mach. We did loops and rolls and she got some stick time. It was an honor.”What they do in the Olympics showcases a beacon of excellence, he said. “It’s doing something greater than ourselves.That’s what they represent. It's an inspiration to our team that’s what we try to achieve in theAir Force.” Caldwell said she’s trained her whole life to reach the Gold medal standard. “TheAir Force sets a high bar. I give a high performance in skiing and these guys give a high performance in a different way. It’s two different worlds.” An aerial doesn’t get any less scary, said Schoenefeld. “When I do a triple backflip I’m nervous every day. When we took off I thought ‘oh we’re about to go fast.’” It was absolutely incredible, said Caldwell. “My Gold medal went through the speed of sound. This was the highlight of my post Olympic experience. It was a dream come true and now it’s off my bucket list.” It’s hard to describe the indescribable, she said. “It’s like if a dragon and a unicorn had a baby strapped to a rocket ship. I’m so excited to be a part of this and I’m grateful for their service.” l

Incumbents dominate in Davis GOP Primaries

U.S.

Wayment earns spot on U.S. National Team Courtney Wayment, the Davis High and recently graduated BYU distance runner, finished second in the 3000-meter steeplechase at the USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships to win a spot on the U.S. world championship team.

After her collegiate-record performance in the NCAA championships two weeks ago, Wayment knocked another four seconds off her record performance in the NCAA meet –which was eight seconds faster than any collegian has ever run – finishing with a time of 9:12.10. The world championships will be held on this same track at the University of Oregon in three weeks.

Judge issues temporary restraining order on Utah’s abortion trigger law

Physicians in Utah may continue to provide abortions for patients until at least July 11. On Monday, Third District Court Judge Andrew Stone granted a request from Utah’s Planned Parenthood Association for a 14 day TRO. He said he felt allowing the law to take immediate effect could cause “irreparable harm. Doctors here are threatened with felonies. The affected women are deprived of safe, local medical treatments to terminate pregnancies.” Doctors can continue to provide abortions in the Beehive State for the next two weeks, a state judge decided Monday. Stone granted the order at the request from Planned Parenthood Association of Utah.

Prayer OK’d for school coach instateWashington

By Tom Haraldsen tom.h@davisjournal.com

This

U.S.

U.S. House District 2 Incumbent Chris Stewart moved into November’s general election with a win over challenger Erin Rider. Stewart finished with 13,781 votes to 6,329 for Rider.

State Senate District 6 Jerry Stevenson advanced into Novem-

Please see ELECTIONS pg. 2

A former high school football coach in Washington who was disciplined for holding a postgame prayer at midfield with his team saw his action protected by a Supreme Court ruling on Monday. By a 6-3 decision, the Court said Bremerton High School Joseph Kennedy’s prayers are protected by the Constitution’s guarantees of free speech and religious exercise, and the school board’s discipline of the coach was unwarranted.

Saturday and Sunday at HillAir Force Base.

year’s primary elections in Davis County were completely between candidates in the Republican Party, which has dominated the county’s political offices for years.As of earlyWednesday morning, here were the vote totals in Davis County for candidates in a number of races:

Senate As expected, incumbent Mike Lee fought off the challenges of two Davis County residents, Becky Edwards of Bountiful andAlly Isom of Kaysville. Lee garnered 24,859 votes to 16,045 for Edwards and 4,517 for Isom in Davis County. Lee took 60 percent of the votes statewide.

House District 1 Incumbent Blake Moore, seeking a second term of office, defeatedAndrew Badger

andTina Cannon in this primary, getting 14,769 votes. Badger was second at 6,712 and Cannon third at 3,363.

Getting to Know Dr. Heaton

Jared Heaton is an attentive and thorough dermatologist, serving his patients in Davis County. Dr. Heaton is Board-certified in dermatology, and he is currently a member of the American Society of MOHS Surgeons.

Dr. Heaton prides himself in serving all patient populations and treating all areas of dermatology from children through retirement age. He places a strong empahsis on catering to the retirement population in his community as skin cancer is more prevalent in this age group.

Dr. Heaton earned an undergraduate degree in International Relations with a minor in Asian Studies from Brigham Young University (BYU). His medical degree is from Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine (AZCOM). He completed both his internship and medical residency in Tampa, Florida.

In his spare time, Dr. Heaton enjoys mountain biking, snowboarding, parafoil kite flying, and spending time with his wife and three children.

Dr. Jared R. Heaton

Board Certified Dermatologist

Shalise Owens DNP, FNP-C

Winter stargazing on Antelope Island offers a unique view of the night skies

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@davisjournal.com

As cities get brighter, our view of the stars gets dimmer. With more people living under artificial light, it’s changing the way we see our skies and blocking astral views we used to enjoy. A world-wide effort to reduce light pollution encourages communities to create Dark Sky areas to help people return to a natural nighttime environment.

In 2017, Antelope Island earned the Dark-Sky designation administered by the International Dark Sky Association and it’s become a place to witness exceptional views of the night sky.

Utah has 10 state parks and 24 locations that have earned the Dark-Sky designation. In fact, the state has the highest number of certified Dark-Sky Parks and Communities in the world. But Antelope Island offers a unique experience.

“Our geography out here really made it possible to earn the designation,” said Trish Ackley, park naturalist for Antelope Island State Park. “We’re surrounded by a lake. We’re undeveloped out here and the lake makes it almost impossible for development to encroach on us, so already the park was pretty dark. We did have to adjust some lighting and eliminate some lighting that wasn’t necessary.”

It can take years for a location to earn approval from IDA. The effort to get the designation was spearheaded by Wendy Wilson, now the assistant park manager at Antelope Island State Park. There are several requirements to keep the designation each year, including public outreach and working with community partners to bring awareness to light pollution.

Winter is Ackley’s favorite time to stargaze on Antelope Island because it gets dark much earlier and the pesky mosquitoes and gnats aren’t around to irritate visitors. But she does warn people to bundle up, because it can get really cold.

“It’s a little warmer out here than it is on the Wasatch Front because we’re surrounded by what is usually a warmer body of water, but it’s often windy,” she said. “If you’re taking pictures, be sure to wear gloves. Just bundle up.”

While summertime stargazing at the park is popular, with star parties, astronomy programs and dark sky photography, it’s been harder to get people to enjoy the dark skies during the colder months. But Ackley said the benefits to winter stargazing are numerous.

“Winter constellations are, in my opinion, so much better than summer constellations. There are just more stories to see and more you can play with and use your imagination in the winter.”

Although Antelope Island State Park closes at 10 p.m. during the winter months, it gets dark enough to see a phenomenal star show starting around 7 or 8 p.m. It’s a good time for families to visit and still get the kids home in time for bed.

As light pollution continues to increase, the International Dark-Sky Association states more than 80% of the country can no longer see the Milky Way. Artificial light has been shown to affect sleep cycles, disrupt migratory patterns in birds and even contribute to climate change.

Ackley said Utah home and business owners can reduce light pollution and help protect views of the night sky. Small changes like using lights only when and where necessary, shielding lights and directing them downward, using warmer light

bulbs and closing window blinds at night are all ways to reduce light pollution.

As our view of the stars dims, people are traveling to locations with Dark-Sky designations to catch a glimpse of what’s missing from bright cities, towns and neighborhoods.

“Astro-tourism is really picking up. People are starting to travel to darker places and seeking that out,” Ackley said. “Most people don’t have access to the Milky Way. It’s up there but we don’t think about it and don’t see it. But now that people are getting a taste of that, it’s really powerful. People want that.”

For information about Antelope Island’s Dark Skies program, visit StateParks.utah.gov/parks/antelope-island/darkskies/. l

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Dark-Sky photography is popular on Antelope Island State Park. With the park’s Dark-Sky designation, photographers like Ryan Andreasen capture phenomenal views of the heavens. Photo courtesy of Andreasen

BOUNTIFUL—What started out as a dare from their 9-year-old son has now turned into a growing family business. Lost and Found Thrift in Bountiful has been in business for about 12 years. The Roddas started the business on the basis that they grew up on.

After their first purchase of a chalkware statue of Babe Ruth eating a hot dog, they were able to “start their thrift store for about $600 and some junk,” said Cheryl Rodda. She explained that both she and her husband grew up going to garage sales and thrifting. “We took what we grew up going to and combined it into a store,” said Rodda.

Rodda said that they aren’t the typical thrift store. Lost and Found uses its Facebook page to promote the business as well as all of the items they get for sale. While

Finding the rare, lost and maybe haunted

By Alisha Copfer | alisha.c@davisjournal.com

they encourage people to come into the store to look around, customers can also make purchases from the Facebook page at www. facebook.com/utahthrift.

The business started on the premise of trying to have a small town feel. When the Roddas first opened their business, it was located in a small store of only about 700 square feet. “We kept getting questions about us buying stuff, and we just started getting bigger,” said Rodda. “We had a customer, who came in all the time, say that he had a spot for us to use, and that’s how we came here.” That space has now expanded to nearly 8,000 square feet.

Lost and Found Thrift is located at 75 East 500 South, Bountiful.

“Facebook has been a great venue to get us out there,” said Rodda. “We don’t adver-

tise; we use word-of-mouth. Customers can purchase using Facebook, and the store will hold for up to 48 hours. We can be flexible to meet different needs.”

The Roddas enjoy helping out in the community as well. As it is a family business, they have very few full-time employees. Instead, they help with one-on-one rehabilitation efforts. They have worked with group homes and halfway houses in the past. “They make it fun here,” said Marci Fifield, a volunteer in the store. “It’s never ending.”

From Christmas displays during the holiday season to Halloween classes about witches, Rodda enjoys her time at the store. “We try to have fun with it,” she said.

Lost and Found plays Santa for a local family during the holidays. The Roddas will pick a family that needs help that they know or that has been recommended by employees or customers. Once they have a family, they will post what the family needs on Facebook and take in donations for them. “It all basically started with someone caring,” said Rodda.

“They are the nicest people on earth,” said Felicia Delong, a longtime shopper. Delong has been shopping at Lost and Found since its first location.

Lost and Found also rents things to

those in need. While they mainly deal with schools for theater props, wedding needs and even cups for tea parties, the Roddas will work with everyone. In the past, they have rented props for school carnivals and even to BYU Broadcasting for commercials.

“People also know to ask for the haunted items,” said Rodda. The store has had professional paranormal investigators come in to confirm which items are haunted. Rodda explained that there have been times she has heard her name being called, things falling off of shelves, chandeliers spinning and even sounds with nothing present to explain them.

Rodda explained that Lost and Found has something for everyone. “This is a place where everyone can come, especially guys,” said Rodda. “Because most of these places are geared toward women, we wanted to make sure that everyone felt welcome. We figured it would be really cool to have a place where guys can go too.”

They have a man cave as well as home goods and knick-knacks of every kind. Men can shop for sports cards while women look at dolls and kitchen goods. Even the kids can peruse movies, games and old toys. l

Cheryl Rodda stands proudly in front of her vintage and thrift store Lost and Found in Bountiful. Photo by Alisha Copfer

Snapshot of 2022

From skydivers to sports, 2022 was filled with events in the county. Davis Journal photographer Roger V. Tuttle shares some of his top picks.

Snapshot of 2022

JCPenney store has long history in Bountiful

By Becky Ginos | becky.g@davisjournal.com

BOUNTIFUL—There are JCPenney department stores all over Utah, including one in the Layton Hills Mall, but at one time it was on Main Street in Bountiful. Known as The Golden Rule store it opened Sept. 9, 1910 next to Brooks Fabric on the corner of 100 S. Main where Pat’s Dancewear is today.

“It was called The Golden Rule because those were the principals he (Penney) based his store on,” said Jeff Thorpe, who gave a presentation on the history of the store to the Sons of Utah Pioneers (SUP). “In the early days if he found out an employee was a drinker or smoker he’d fire them.”

James Cash Penney founded the store in 1902 with two partners and opened the first Golden Rule dry-goods store in Kemmerer, Wyoming. They opened two more stores in other Wyoming frontier towns. As the company grew, by 1929 there were more than a thousand JCPenney stores, one of them in Bountiful.

“Penney didn’t think he needed ads because their prices were better than other stores,” said Thorpe. “In 1915 spring dresses and parasols were 98 cents.”

In 1920, an attempted robbery at the Bountiful store was thwarted by the marshal when he saw the suspects through a window holding up the night watchman. The marshal rushed to the rear door to stop them when they came out but they used Fisher as a shield to make their escape. They fled in a car that had been parked several blocks away. The men were later arrested in California, according to an article in the Clipper newspaper.

In 1927 the store was robbed again. “It was not uncommon for the store on Main to

be burglarized,” said Thorpe.

A new theater was being built in 1941 and a new JCPenney store was also being built next to it just around the corner from the old location. It opened in 1942. “When the new store opened Mrs. Smart dresses were $2.98,” he said.

SUP member Ross Smedley also had a connection to JCPenney growing up. “In 1962 my brother left on a mission and my parents didn’t know how they were going to support him,” he said. “My mom was always shopping on Main and she started working at JCPenney. She supported three missionaries while working at JCPenney.”

When the store moved over to Pages Lane she worked there, said Smedley. “She

worked for 20 years.”

JCPenney was cash and carry only because Penney believed it was a way to save customers from debt. In 1958, the company moved to credit with store credit cards.

Eventually the department store moved to Pages Lane. When a new store opened at Layton Hills Mall the Pages Lane location became a JCPenney call center. It closed in 2005. The building was razed to make way for apartments and retailers.

Thorpe’s father worked for JCPenney so he has good memories of the store. “I remember as a kid sitting on top of the store watching the parade and eating candy and soda pop,” he said. “We’d help clean the store and put tags on and get spud nuts from Carmack’s.”l

Founder J.C. Penney opened the first Golden Rule store in 1902 in Kemmerer, Wyoming.

The Bountiful store opened in 1910 on 100 S. Main Street. Courtesy photos

Comcast deploys new multi-gig internet speeds in Salt Lake City

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

Homes and businesses in Salt Lake City were introduced to

Comcast’s new multi-gig internet speed, delivering downloads speeds up to 2 Gbps over existing network connections. On December 13, Comcast announced the launch that will rollout nationwide, reaching more than 56 million households by the end of 2025.

The new offerings will be the largest and fastest-ever multigig network and WiFi deployment in the United States. It will be a seamless transition, connecting millions of users to internet services and will double in capability, speed and reliability every two years.

A launch celebration in Salt Lake City brought together local Utah Comcast network engineers and senior leaders, community partners and Comcast Headquarters Chief Network Officer Elad Nafshi.

“This is the beginning of a transformation, and we’re well on our way,” Nafshi said. “We have architecture that is built for infinite scale. This is architecture that will enable us to offer multigig services across our footprint.”

The average home has 25-30 devices connected to WiFi and internet services. Comcast’s rollout will help keep those phones, computers, appliances and TVs working reliably. Real-time visibility allows Comcast to address issues as they arise, dispatching technicians to the right locations, armed with tools to fix problems across the network.

Built with sustainability in mind, the network complies with regulations for data center sustainability. Over the next seven years, the amount of power needed to provide services will be reduced by 50%.

“Investing in technology and infrastructure ensures Salt Lake City maintains the fastest and most reliable internet service

for our residents,” said Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall. “In my work as a founding member of the Utah Broadband Coalition, I’ve seen how the benefits of Comcast’s investments extend to businesses, government organizations, students and all Utahns; including seniors, veterans and those in low-income households. We greatly appreciate Comcast’s announcement today because it prepares us for tomorrow’s demands.”

In addition to multi-gigabit download speeds, Comcast introduced faster upload speeds to Xfinity Internet customers in Salt Lake who choose xFi Complete. New speeds will be up to 10 times faster than current levels and deliver the industry’s best combination of speed, coverage, and control, powered by one of the world’s first Wi-Fi 6E Gateways.

“I had the opportunity to launch the previous revolution. In late 2016, we launched the infrastructure we rely on to deliver services today,” Nafshi said. “In 2016, we rolled out the very first modem and 18 months later it was available everywhere. That’s the path we’re on right now. By the end of 2025, this network upgrade will be available to 56 million households. The vast majority of our network will be fully upgraded.”

Faster speeds are just one of the consumer benefits made possible through Comcast’s efforts to evolve its entire network to 10G, a next-generation technology that will stay ahead of customer demand for connectivity. The 10G technology allows enhanced speeds and performance to millions of people using existing connections, without having to dig up yards or streets.

Comcast has nearly 5,000 miles of fiber throughout the state of Utah, serving more than 1 million customers, including 100,000 in Salt Lake. Transitioning to a digital network, powered by a virtualized platform, Comcast engineers can reliably maintain, troubleshoot and upgrade network components almost instantly, with

a few keystrokes. This makes the network more energy efficient and is an important element of Comcast’s plan to become carbon neutral by 2035.

“The local teams really empower all this to the community. They are pushing this technology that is so scalable and so seamless to the customers. They make it happen,” Nafshi said. “It’s so much hard work. There’s a tremendous amount of hard work by many women and men across the company, whether it’s corporate or a regional division or locally here in Salt Lake.”

For more information, visit Corporate.Comcast.com. l

At the Comcast headend facility in Salt Lake City on Dec. 13, Elad Nafshi, senior VP at Comcast (right), shows Jared Gerber, senior deputy chief administrative officer of Sandy City (left) and Chris Dunkeson, VP of area offices at Comcast, the new platform for Comcast’s next generation network technology that will deliver services more efficiently. Courtesy photo

Utah Jazz pitches in to help feed those in need

By Becky Ginos | becky.g@davisjournal.com

BOUNTIFUL—Utah Jazz player Malik Beasley took time off the court last month to fill dinner bags at the Bountiful Community Food Pantry for those families who would otherwise go hungry. The Utah Jazz partnered with America First Credit Union (AFCU) to sort and pack food to help fight food insecurity.

“Lack of food is a big deal year-round but especially during the holidays,” said Utah Jazz President Jim Olson. “It can be stressful and to not have food is hard. America First Credit Union is as good as it gets to help provide food for those in need.”

It’s also great to have Malik here, he said. “To have a player participate shows what kind of players we have on the team.”

The event was a culmination of AFCU’s annual food drive where they collected more than $15,000 for food banks across Utah, Nevada and Arizona. AFCU also donated an additional $5,000 to the pantry.

“The pantry started 50 years ago in a closet at the church behind us,” said Executive Director Rebekah Anderson. “It’s come a long way. This year we’ve given out 2.3 million pounds of food. There’s been a huge increase in the need. In November we fed 147% more people than

last year.”

A lot of people are living paycheck to paycheck, she said. “So if something happens they’re not able to make ends meet. We’re feeding people who have never needed us before. There’s no way we could do this without the community.”

“Sixty-eight percent of our clientele are women who are heads of households,” said Jordan Jacoby with the pantry. “That’s a lot of single mothers. We came up with the family dinner package that has food they can prepare quickly and feed their kids. It also has a recipe card. We’re feeding all the hungry families – it’s wonderful.”

“I want to be a good person and help feed people who need food and help in the community,” said Beasley. “I’ve been in this situation when I was living in Detroit. I didn’t always know what I was going to eat. So to do this means a lot.”

The Jazz usually has its own drive, he said. “But I’m happy to be here to help out. It’s not just about basketball to me, it’s the community as a whole. There’s a lot going on right now so we need to do our best to better everybody’s life whether they’re on the team or a fan. The Utah community does that. We have to stay warm and stick together. I’m blessed to be here – go Jazz.”

“Hunger doesn’t know ages or standing,” said AFCU Director of Public Relations, Dave Nellis. “There is a great need in the community. It’s heartwarming to

serve. Many of the faces of those who receive this we’ll never know. Our philosophy is people helping people.” l

Utah Jazz player Malik Beasley (right) fills dinner bags at the Bountiful Community Food Pantry. The Jazz partnered with America First Credit Union (AFCU) to sort and pack food to help fight food insecurity. Photo by Becky Ginos

Miss Davis County has been crowned for 2023

By Alisha Copfer | alisha.c@davisjournal.com

DAVIS COUNTY—The Miss Davis County Competition was held at the Syracuse Arts Academy. The festivities ran all day on Nov. 12 with workshops on walking, talking, dancing and singing. There were also talent shows, interview questions and an evening gown competition involving each of the six contestants.

After a full day of pageanting, Hannah Romney was crowned Miss Davis County for 2023 on Nov. 12, 2022. For Romney, pageanting runs in her blood. She got her start as Little Miss Lehi when she was 7 years old. And her niece is the one who helped her get involved this year for the Davis County run. “At some point, my whole family has been involved in pageanting,” said Romney.

“Our Miss Davis County, Hannah Romney, was so welcomed, and I’m so proud to call her my title holder,” said Melissa Payne, a makeup artist at the pageant. “This workshop was amazing, and Hannah is even more prepared to serve the community of Davis County!”

After not being interested in the pageant, Romney's niece convinced her to run for the Miss Davis County title. “I had the full ‘Miss Congeniality’ turn-around,” explained Romney. “I had preconceived notions that pageants are based on beauty and body expectations. However, unexpectedly, the pageant was full of feminine energy, and everyone was so kind to me throughout the whole process.”

Romney explained that each contestant and everyone involved were all rooting for each other. “The first thing I noticed was that everyone was so kind, supportive and uplifting,” said Romney. “Everyone wanted each other to succeed, and they were cheering for everyone involved.”

“I feel I won on the energy of the day and the work I had already put into my social initiative,” said Romney. “I think this was seen by everyone during all of the walking, talking and singing leading up to the shining 24 hours of that day.”

Romney’s social impact initiative is the love of arts. “I believe the arts have the power to change someone's perspective on themselves, their circumstances and their community,” said Romney.

“I want kids to have as much exposure as they can to these healing tools,” she said. “There needs to be more art, dance and theater in our elementary schools. The arts are so healing.”

When Romney was about 14 years old, she lost her brother, which created trials and tragedies in her life. She was able to turn to theater to help her understand what was going on and how to process things better. “After the theater kids found me, I experienced the most empathy I have ever felt in my life,” said Romney. “There is something so beautiful about the way art touches you. It has the potential to heal communities by offering different perspectives.”

Others often describe Romney as being “quite a quirky one” and a bit “unhinged,” yet she still has the ability to help everyone feel comfortable. She describes herself as a “theater-kid turned preschool teacher and a lesbian-woman with her own inner diversity.”

Romney will be holding an art supply drive in January to help meet her goals of getting the arts into more schools. Romney stated that only about 49 minutes of each day are spent on the arts in elementary school classrooms. Her initiative is to provide more exposure to not only elementary age kids but all students in Davis County. l

Special education program’s mission is to help children become successful

By Becky Ginos | becky.g@davisjournal.com

FARMINGTON—The Davis School District (DSD) special education program serves 10-11% of the district’s population and provides opportunities for children with all types of disabilities. The department is staffed with physical therapists, speech and language pathologists, counselors, teachers for the deaf and visually impaired and many more specialists who help children thrive.

“We’re careful to provide the least restrictive environment for them,” said Special Education Director Tiffany Midgley as part of a presentation to the school board. “We try to engage students and meet them wherever they are. Our expectation is to provide them an education that meets their goals so they can eventually leave DSD like every child, ready to perform.”

Resource is a pullout program, said Lisa Wall, Mild/ Moderate K-12 & School Support Director. “Students walk down to the resource room from their general education class which is where they receive core instruction.”

Secondary schools have different periods so there might be co-teachers, she said. “One would be for special education and the other a regular teacher. When they turn 14 we develop a transition plan that is updated every year with the student’s IEP (Individualized Education Program).”

In 11 to 18 schools there are School Support Facilitators, said Wall. “They work with curriculum, student behavior, inclusion, autism and brain injury. They also talk to parents if needed. They’re invaluable to us with all their experience and training. Any child currently residing or going to school in our district can be referred to us.”

Special programs include A.S.C. (Academic Social

Communication), Wall said. “We might go out to the classrooms with a peer tutor or a teacher assistant. Students might also need behavior support. Some students require intensive instruction and academic needs into adulthood.”

Other students can’t be sustainable in a classroom, she said. “We have five classrooms that are supervised by our behavioral team.”

The department has 90 speech and language specialists and 51 school psychologists, said Taya Johnson, Director of Related Services. “They’re impacting 2,500 students a week. We have six teachers of the deaf and hard of hearing and 11 teachers for the visually impaired. There are four physical therapists who work with over 60 students a month.”

Vista is for students ages 18 – 22 with an IEP who haven’t graduated yet, said Vista Principal Jeff Williams. “We teach them adaptive skills like making change, ordering a meal, learning to read a bus schedule, etc. It’s not based on a regular curriculum.”

They use UTA to go out on job sites, he said. “We have a foods classroom where they make food. They also learn how to iron clothes, make a bed, how to dress correctly for a job, etc. We have a soda fountain shop and kids can order drinks from that. Students work there if they’re not community ready.”

The goal is for students to be as independent as possible, said Williams. “Some learn to tie their shoes and others get a job or go to DTC. Come see our students – you’ll fall in love with them.” l

Hannah Romney was crowned the new Miss Davis County 2023 on Nov. 12. Courtesy photo

Laura Alley, M.S. – CCC/SLP works with children at Foxboro Elementary. Speech and language pathology is just one of several programs within the Davis School District special education program. Courtesy photo

By Alisha Copfer | alisha.c@davisjournal.com

NORTH SALT LAKE—Bountiful and North Salt Lake are reaching out to their respective communities for these volunteers this year. Both cities have added information to their newsletters and Facebook pages about the need for people willing to help in this project.

The cities are looking for volunteers willing to learn about Utah tax codes and help others submit their annual taxes. The IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program searches every year for those who are willing to help.

The IRS’s VITA program offers free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals. The individuals who qualify for these services typically make less than $60,000 per year or have disabilities. While the IRS manages this program, it is staffed by volunteers who want to make a difference in their communities.

In order to volunteer, people must be IRS-certified, which is a training offered through the IRS. Eight to 10 hours of online training are required, and a few open-book certification tests. Volunteers will help provide tax counseling and filing instructions to those in their community.

Some of the volunteer roles needed at free tax preparation sites are greeter or

screener, interpreter, site administrator or coordinator, tax preparer, quality reviewer and marketing. Each role has different responsibilities described on the IRS site: www.irs.gov/individuals/irs-tax-volunteers.

The website for the state coalition is earnitkeepitsaveitutah.org “Salt Lake has their own VITA program,” said Seth Naylor, Program Specialist at Community Action Partnership of Utah. The local website is taxhelputah.org. “More information about the various locations can be found on those websites. In previous years people could also utilize 2-1-1 to get more information and to make appointments for the sites where appointments are available.”

This tax preparation help will be held at the Bountiful City Hall, 795 S. Main St., each Thursday from 4:30 p.m to 7:30 p.m. starting January 2023 and continuing through the tax season mid-April.

“If preparing taxes isn’t for you, they could also use a person to greet the clients and help them get signed in and fill out their paperwork,” according to the North Salt Lake Facebook page. For more information, contact the local city offices. l

Unique healthcare system combines mental health treatment with medication management

By Becky Ginos | becky.g@davisjournal.com

BOUNTIFUL—In the midst of the opioid crisis a unique healthcare system, KindlyMD™ offers a way to help patients get off of the drugs and prescribe something different for pain. The clinic has also expanded its service to include mental health counseling and therapy and medication management for any type of prescription medication.

“I worked in GI surgery, trauma and the ER for seven years,” said KindlyMD™ founder Tim Pickett, PA-C. “I contributed a little bit to prescribing opioids. We’re trying to help them get off of those.”

Pickett said they meet patients where they’re at. “We prescribe what’s needed and get rid of what’s not.”

The addition of mental health services helps treat the whole patient, he said. “We understand mental health plays a big role in outcomes for patients to improve. We’ve embedded a behavioral health clinician (BHC).”

They are a hybrid therapist, said Pickett. “Regular therapy is usually a 50 minute session. The BHC is a therapist by training but focuses on a 15-30 minute medical visit. Every patient sees a medical provider and a clinician every time.”

Medicine has always been top down, he said. “The prescriber or doctor says take this pill once a day. Patients don’t feel like they have a lot of control over when they take it. We try to understand what they’re suffering from by first listening to the patient.”

They can take control of their own healthcare, said Pickett. “It empowers the patient to have more of a say. When I go back

over my visits patients have had an Ah Ha moment. They say ‘I’ve been taking this medication for depression for years.’ It’s not designed to be taken forever.”

With opioids the brain changes to where it doesn’t help the pain anymore, he said. “In fact over the long haul it may cause more pain.”

Pickett said the goal is to improve outcomes. “We’re not afraid to use alternative methods. We’re not going to oppose patients using things like Cannabis. If the prescriber and BHC think it’s a good idea we’ll support it if you do it in a legitimate way.”

Patients can come to the clinic first without a referral, he said. “People can talk through whether it’s a good fit and decide yes or no. We spend about an hour up front and make a plan with them on how to proceed. We can take over prescribing medications and can manage those.”

The clinic sees a lot of pain patients, said Pickett. “We’re more of a specialty clinic. It’s for all medications that are taken for symptoms. They see us once a month and decide whether they need more or less additional therapy.”

KindlyMD™ has two full-time BHC, two full-time prescribers and 20 part-time prescribers over six locations, he said. “I’m a PA (Physician's Assistant) by training. We have a physician on staff and our medical director is a physician. Most prescribers are PAs. We can manage meds and we can listen.”

Currently KindlyMD™ doesn’t take insurance, Pickett said. “But we should be in the next three months. We do take

health savings. We also have a program for low income patients who can’t afford visits.”

The clinic focuses on the whole package, he said. “The patient decides what they want out of their medical care.”

Pickett said they’re having really good success. “We’ve found over the past few years that more than 85% reduce medication within six months and 40% reduce or remove one medication from the list. They’re able to stop a whole medication.”

It’s pretty exciting, he said. “I don’t know of anybody else in Utah that focuses on pain medication and mental health meds people are taking. I’m excited to do something that really helps. We have a lot of opioids in Utah. I hope we can make a difference.”

KindlyMD™ has a clinic in Bountiful at 580 W. 100 N. Suite 4 in the old Carr Printing building. l

KindlyMD™ founder Tim Pickett talks with employee Elissa Reed at one of their clinics. Patients have a consultation on their first visit to determine a healthcare plan. They have an office in Bountiful at 580 W. 100 N. Suite 4 in the old Carr Printing building. Courtesy photo

‘Primordial’ to open in Lagoon’s 2023 season

By Becky Ginos | becky.g@davisjournal.com

FARMINGTON—For the last few years guests at Lagoon have watched anxiously as a new ride has taken shape. In 2023 the wait will be over. The ride will open to the public when Lagoon’s season starts in the spring.

“It’s called Primordial,” said Lagoon spokesperson Adam Leishman. “It’s a family friendly ride. Children who are 48 inches have to ride with a supervising adult, those 36 inches can’t ride.”

It’s a unique ride, he said. “It’s an interactive, experiential coaster that is one of a kind in the world. I don’t want to say much more because it’s a fun surprise for our guests.”

Leishman said Lagoon is also unique in that they build some of their own rides. “We built Cannibal. We use local vendors for construction and we have an in-house international designer.”

It’s been seven years in the making, he said. “That includes the design process. In 2020 construction was halted. All of our resources had to go to staying open. Then it picked back up again last year.”

The name Primordial came from employees’ suggestions, said Leishman. “Everyone comes up with weird and funny names and then we pick one and say ‘that’s

good.’ We’re family owned, kind of a Ma and Pa shop so everyone is very involved. That’s how it works.”

Lagoon also announced its pricing for the new season and that has gone up. “Everything that’s happening in the world is the same for us,” Leishman said. “Our operating costs have gone up so we can’t maintain the same prices.”

Leishman said they have a Black Friday deal on a season pass. “It’s $160.95 plus tax. It’s tiered pricing as the season goes on but the maximum price for a season pass is $207.95 plus tax. The maximum price for a single day ticket is $97.95 plus tax.”

People are often surprised that the off season is the busiest time for Lagoon, he said. “That’s the time we are making improvements, rehabilitating rides and doing construction. We’re working really hard.”

Lagoon has some iconic rides that can’t be found anywhere else, Leishman said. “The wooden roller coaster was built in 1921 and there isn’t another Terror Ride. It’s one of only four to six dark rides left in the entire world. It turned 50 in 2017 and Dracula’s Castle will be 50 years old in 2024.”

There are three rides that are on the national historic registry, he said. “We don’t like to take rides out. We like to preserve our

rides.”

It’s the largest family owned amusement park in the country, said Leishman. “We’re one of few parks that have a picnic

area and you can bring food in. There’s a lot of unusual things about Lagoon that we take a lot of pride in.”l

Now you c a n fi na l ly have a l l of t he soot h ing benefit s of a rela x ing wa rmbat h, or enjoy a c onvenient ref re sh ing shower wh i le se ated or st a nd ing w it h Sa fe Step Wa l k-In Tub ’ s FR E E S howe r Pa c k a ge !

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Hig h- qu a l it y t ub c omplete w it h a c omprehen sive l i fet i me warranty on the entire tub

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Now you ca n ha ve t he be st of bot h wor l d s – t he re i s n’t a bet te r, more a ord a bl e wa l k - in t u

Riders get a thrill on Colossus at Lagoon. The park will open its newest ride, Primordial, in the 2023 season. Photo by Roger V. Tuttle

p ro m ot o nal p er o d T h ere s n o m n mum m o nt h y p ay m ent re quire d dur in g t h e p ro m o o nal p er o d F nan c in g f o r G re en S k y ® c o n s um er o an p ro gr am s i s p ro v d e d b y f e d er al y n s ure d e qual o p p o r t unit y l en d er b ank s † T h e C hamp io n L mit e d L f e t m e War r ant y ap p ie s t o C o m o r t 3 6 5 W in

You may choose a burial plot, urn garden, scattering gardens, columbarium niche, or memory wall at our on-site crematory. Whether your family would like a direct cremation without a ceremony or would like to enlist the help of our funeral planners for a memorial ceremony, we are here to help. Choose traditional funeral services or life celebrations to honor the life of your loved one.

As you plan the end-of-life services, there are dozens of decisions to make during an emotional time. LET OUR TEAM HELP YOU choose urns, vaults, and memorials. We can also help with flower arrangements, catering, and grief resources.

Jewelry is more than just pretty, it’s healing

By Becky Ginos | becky.g@davisjournal.com

LAYTON—From mechanic, to chef to jewelry maker, Vaughn Sweeten has done it all. Although he’s worked in several different fields, he’s found his calling – making one-of-a-kind jewelry.

Sweeten started his craft at the beginning of the year after taking a class at Weber State, now he’s creating pieces of his own.

“I took one of the jewelry classes and they gave us a chunk of silver to make a ring out of,” said Sweeten. “This experience showed me that this is my calling, to make beautiful things.”

Jewelry making was not his first career, Sweeten started out first as a mechanic. “I worked on cars,” he said. “I love cars but the job killed me. It was hard on my body and my life revolved around work.”

Sweeten said he decided to look at courses at the DTC (Davis Technical College). “I knew I liked working with my hands so I thought about composites or welding. Then I walked past the cafeteria and liked the vibe and synergy of the kitchen.”

That was when there were a lot of food shows going on, he said. “I thought that was cool. There was an energy in the kitchen. You’re kind of the lone wolf in a car shop and it’s cutthroat.” There’s teamwork in the kitchen and that’s needed in life, said Sweeten. “I started going to DTC and got a job in a kitchen at Weber State. I made my own trays and simplified my culinary experience. I had the freedom to practice my knife skills and push to learn the craft.”

Sweeten entered the Skills USA competition and did well. “It’s like the high school level competition but on the adult side,” he said. “Different trades like electricians, drafting, etc. all the trade schools competed. I competed in culinary arts. I had to show my skills executing a meal, my skills presenting the dish and artistry. I’d only been doing it for a few months and took third place. It was pretty cool because I was going against all these experienced people.”

Using those skills, Sweeten started as a regular cook at Twigs then worked his way up to sous chef and worked there for nine years. “I loved it,” he said. “But it was not an easy job. It was so hard and there were a lot of sacrifices to be made.”

Sweeten was a single parent and wanted to give something to his daughter. “But it created a vacancy in my relationship with my daughter and that was a sacrifice I didn’t want to make. It was the universe telling me I needed to do something else.”

He continued to work in the food industry but he and his fiancé found that they needed to make a change. “When push came to shove with both of us working there wasn’t enough time to spend with the family,” said Sweeten. “To give the family what we needed we decided we’d hire someone to take care of the kids but when they went to

daycare they were sick all the time.”

Sweeten became a stay-at-home dad which allowed him time to spend with the family. “I was staying busy but cleaning the house was not enough,” he said. “I love rocks and their metaphysical properties and stumbled upon wire wrapping. It gives a design and texture you can’t get any other way.”

With some practice, Sweeten honed his skills and started to make pieces for his family and friends as gifts. “People always have rocks so I started offering to make a piece of jewelry out of their rock and do custom work.”

Each rock has different metaphysical properties, he said. “I designed pieces of

jewelry that would rid themselves of negativity. It would create a barrier when they walked into a room with a toxic atmosphere. You can change the mood or be the mood.”

There are bits of evidence that rocks can help, said Sweeten. “I want to create something that will help them. Not only something beautiful but why the color and texture makes them feel an attraction to it.”

Every crystal and stone has a vibrational frequency, he said. “There’s tons of evidence that supports this. My intrigue is always why.”

Sweeten is perfecting his craft and hopes to show his pieces at boutiques and galleries like the BDAC. “I want to get involved with the community and get people out,” he said. “That’s cool to me.”

Whatever Sweeten does he always

gives 100 percent. “I’m always challenging myself,” he said. “I do the best I can do to the best of my ability. Failure is not an option for me.”

See Sweeten’s jewelry on his Facebook page Sweet Rocks and at etsy.com/shop/ SweetRoxx.l

Vaughn Sweeten and his daughter Eleanor. Sweeten is a stay-at-home dad who started making jewelry after taking a class at Weber State. Now he is selling his one-of-a-kind pieces. Photos courtesy of Vaughn Sweeten

Sundance 2023 to offer both online and in-person screenings

By Jenniffer Wardell | The City Journals

Ticket packages are now on sale for next year’s Sundance Film Festival, which runs Jan. 19-29, 2023. This year the festival will offer both in-person and online screenings of most of its lineup, giving Utah residents a variety of options for getting their Sundance fix. With 99 feature films announced for their 2023 lineup and even more episodic and short content, there’s a movie sure to please everyone.

“The program for this year’s Festival reiterates the relevancy of trailblazing work serving as an irreplaceable source for original stories that resonate and fuel creativity and dialogue,” said Kim Yutani, Sundance Film Festival Director of Programming. “In so many ways this year’s slate reflects the voices of communities around the world who are speaking out with urgency and finally being heard. Across our program, impactful storytelling by fearless artists continues to provide space for the community to come together to be entertained, challenged, and inspired.”

This year’s biggest movies cover a wide range of cinematic experiences, from horror movies like “Run Rabbit Run” to dramas like “Shayda” and thrillers like “The Accidental Getaway Driver.” Doc-

umentaries touch on everything from the life of Little Richard to one of the only video stores left in the U.S.

“We are honored to share the compelling selection of work at this year’s Festival from distinct perspectives and unique voices,” said Robert Redford, Sundance Institute Founder and President.

In-person screenings will be available throughout the entire run of the festival. Though many of the venues are in Park City, this year’s Sundance also includes several Salt Lake venues. Broadway Centre Cinemas (111 East Broadway), Salt Lake Community College’s Grand Theatre (1575 South State St.), and Rose Wagner Centre (138 West 300 South) are all familiar venues to Sundance regulars. This year, they’ve also added Megaplex Theatres at Gateway Mall (400 West 200 South).

Online screenings will be available during the second half of the festival, which starts Jan. 24. All of the competition titles will be included, which means the movies in the running for awards. These include all movies in the U.S. Dramatic, U.S. Documentary, World Cinema Dramatic, World Cinema Documentary, and NEXT categories. There will also be a selection of films from other categories,

including Short Films and the Indie Episodic lineup.

Currently, only ticket packages are available for sale on the festival’s website. The online packages are generally less expensive than the in-person screening packages, with the least expensive option being six days of online access to the Indie Episodic screenings and select Short Films programs. Depending on the viewing setup in your home, online screenings can also offer viewing opportunities for more

Eclectic store filled with ‘wonder’

By Becky Ginos | becky.g@davisjournal.com

than one person.

Individual tickets for both in-person and online screenings go on sale Jan. 12. Demand for tickets is always high, so make sure you shop early and have backup options if your first choices are no longer available.

For more information, including a detailed list of competition films, visit festival.sundance.org. l

LAYTON—Tucked between Twisted Sugar and Sill’s Cafe is a little shop with a unique collection of repurposed and reclaimed items from crystals and stones to home decor. The store’s name, Wonder, says it all. It’s looking at life with wonder.

“I was in a workshop and we broke off into groups,” said Wonder owner Randy Stevens. “They wanted to know three things we stood for and I thought wonder, community and unconditional love.”

It’s a really interesting mix, he said. “The decor is all second hand. I work with local people and try to support other smaller businesses.”

Wonder is very unusual and eclectic, Stevens said. “It’s in a red brick home. I knew the women who lived there when I was growing up. It’s nice to be back home in my old stomping ground.”

Stevens said he goes to yard sales, estate sales and thrift stores to find his treasures. “I try to find things that can be repurposed. Stuff that has been discarded or they're going to throw away. I encourage reclaiming otherwise it will go to the landfill.”

Thrifting has always been his thing, Stevens said. “I’m a very creative person. I like to keep things interesting. My home is very eclectic.”

Stevens has been in retail for 40 years. “I

did visual merchandise at Nordstrom,” he said. “I did window displays. It was a big push for us this time of year. I went to San Francisco for 25 years then moved back to Utah. I needed a job so I opened this store.”

It’s come full circle, he said. “I have deep family roots here. I’ve always wanted my own business so I had to come up with a game plan. This is all my interests collected into one place but it works.”

Wonder carries crystals and stones and Stevens has experienced their healing properties. “I’ve been in recovery for 18 years from drugs and alcohol,” he said. “I used Reiki (Japanese form of energy healing) through my journey that helped in the recovery process to get to a place of peace and serenity.”

Some people collect stones for healing and some just because they’re beautiful, said Stevens. “It’s fun to see the excitement and joy customers have when they say ‘oh you have rocks.’ Everyone likes rocks.”

Wonder also carries Christmas decor that is discounted. “I had so much Christmas stuff when I opened that I wanted to clear out,” he said. “People here are such crafters. The earlier I put it out gives them the opportunity to do something with it. It feels good to lighten my load and I know it’s going to someone who knows what to do with it.”

Many of his items have a memory or sto-

ry that goes with it, said Stevens. “It’s nice to hear those stories. I love seeing crafts with an inscription on it. I had an oak log bank that said ‘Christmas 1993.’ Then it had a list of names on it. People buy it for the story as well as the stuff. It might be junk to someone but I like the story.”

Wonder opened in 2019 right before the pandemic hit. “COVID helped my business,” Stevens said. “It gave people something to do. They want to get out and explore. It helped my business get off the ground and introduced me to people.”

Stevens tries to rotate his merchandise often. “I like to keep it new and fresh,” he said. “I can sell anything because there’s a customer for everything. I don’t just sell what’s interesting to me but I try to be open to who it is interesting to. Whether it’s someone in their 90s or they’re 6 there’s something for everyone.”

Wonder is located at 353 E. Gentile St., Layton. Hours are Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., 415-902-0028. l

A selection of some of the movies in the Sundance Film Festival 2023 lineup. Photo collage courtesy of Sundance Film Festival

Wonder is filled with reclaimed items such as home decor, crystals, stones and jewelry. Photo courtesy of Randy Stevens

Sewer district receives $400,000 check from Wattsmart program

By Becky Ginos | becky.g@davisjournal.com

WEST BOUNTIFUL—The South Davis Sewer District has become more energy efficient and it’s paid off. The district received a check for $402,776 from Rocky Mountain Power last month as part of its Wattsmart program that incentivizes commercial and residential customers to save energy.

“We swapped out a large natural gas compressor with a smaller, more efficient compressor with a variable frequency drive so it’s not using as much power when it starts up,” said South Davis Sewer District General Manager Matt Myers. “Wattsmart came through and looked at the plant’s energy efficiency in wastewater treatment then they identified a compressor replacement.”

Wattsmart is a program Rocky Mountain Power runs, he said. “They have people who look at a project in an industry or public entity. They pay for improvements through reimbursement after they come back and verify the improvement generated the intended savings.”

On another project there were just minor things such as turning the lights out and operating air compressors at lower settings, said Myers. “That netted us about $9,000.”

The natural gas compressor that was replaced was 1,400 horsepower before, he said. “The new one is 800. That’s a lot of efficiency

there.”

Myers said they spent more than $400,000 on the project but Rocky Mountain does have a cap. “It didn’t cover it all but it covered a good chunk and it saves on our electric bill.”

“Customers can contact us and someone will come out and do an assessment to see where they can save on energy,” said Logan Taggart, Regional Business Manager, Rocky Mountain Power. “We have engineers who have partnered with us to do an analysis and calculate what the savings would be. The sewer district is a great project that will have huge savings.”

Applicants must go through a pre approval process and submit an application to get the right parties involved in the assessment, he said. “It can be commercial or a business but residential as well.”

Logan said the money for reimbursements comes from the customers. “A portion of their bill pays for these programs. Being more energy efficient helps us keep some of the lowest rates in the country.”

For more information on the Wattsmart program visit rockymountainpower.net and look under “Savings & Energy Choices” or call their customer service at 877-508-5088. l

Finding your inner strength to be successful

By Becky Ginos | becky.g@davisjournal.com

LAYTON—Being a woman in the business world can be daunting. Sometimes the only way to get through it is with a smile. That’s what keeps local entrepreneur and business owner Carlee Hansen going. Hansen shared her take on surviving in business – and life – at the Annual Davis Chamber Women in Business Summit held at the Davis Conference Center.

“We’re warriors,” said Hansen. “We can handle a business call while changing a dirty diaper.”

Hansen started out with a small custom clothing business. Then in 2018 she was diagnosed with general anxiety disorder. “It manifested in a big way,” she said. “I saw doctors, had therapy and went on a journey.”

It was during this time Hansen wrote her book “How the Light Comes In.” “I wrote to find healing,” she said. “It was a way to manage anxiety and stress.”

Throughout high school Hansen did well. “I was very good at school,” she said. “I was going places. I wanted to go to schools like Stanford and Harvard. I was waiting for the onslaught of letters.”

One of the stops while visiting colleges included a night in Ephraim, Utah, said Hansen. “I had the best time. I knew this was

where I should go – to a town that is known for turkeys. I landed right where I was meant to be. You have to do what makes sense to you right now.”

Don’t be afraid to change, she said. “Sometimes shifting 180 degrees is just what we need. Start with what you’re good at. Remember what you liked in high school. See what creative juices are in you. Challenge yourself to be uncomfortable – that’s how we grow.”

Hansen said she’d always dreamed of coaching basketball. “I wasn’t qualified to be a coach. I was good at Excel. But an opening came up at Centennial Junior High. I figured, ‘I like kids and I don’t have a record.’”

She ended up getting the job. “The most qualified person to chase your dreams is you,” said Hansen. “I love it (coaching). It’s the best thing I’ve ever done.”

Not everything has gone smoothly for her though. “One day I was headed to my car and forgot my laptop,” said Hansen. “Then I knocked an orange between the seat and that door in the dark space. As I’m standing there, a snowplow comes by and juices me with wet parking lot snow. We’re going to have bad days. Just shower off and start again. If you’re wallowing in the snow plows and not seeing the funny in it, what’s the point?”

Hansen said it’s difficult to find women in business who are supportive. “Get a group of women who will cheer you on. Love them hard. Lean on them hard. Someone who you know that your name will be safe in their mouth. Grab them with tight fists and run with it.”

If something is stinky in business or life, fix it, she said. “Don’t try to cover it up. Rinse off the smell, don't just spray it with

AXE (deodorant). You never know what people are going through. Give people the benefit of the doubt.”

Fail gracefully, said Hansen. “We’re all in the same boat. Everyone is awkward and it’s OK.”

Change is amazing, she said. “It’s stinky too. But we can become bigger, better, powerful women. We can be our better selves, be better at business and better today.”l

(Left to right) Kirk Nigro and Logan Taggart, Rocky Mountain Power, Howard Burningham Board Chairman South Davis Sewer District and South Davis Sewer District General Manager Matt Myers with a check for $402,776. The district was presented with the check last week for its participation in the Wattsmart program. Courtesy photo

Local entrepreneur and business owner Carlee Hansen shares funny stories about her life and business at the Davis Chamber Women in Business conference. Hansen is the author of two books, “How the Light Comes In” and “Peas are Gross.” Photo by Becky Ginos

Sterling Scholars 2022

BOUNTIFUL HIGH STERLING SCHOLARS

Back row: Kiana Tucker, English, Madelyn Watts, World Languages, William Ahluwalia, Business and Marketing,Tate Heath, Mathematics, Mason Lotz, Computer Technology, Hinarava Hapairai-Hansen, Instrumental Music. Front row: Violet Holley, Vocal Performance, Charlotte Davidson, Speech/Theatre Arts/Forensics, Graciela Eyring, Visual Arts, Ivy Moore, Science, Leah Brown, Family and Consumer Science, Charlotte Murray, Dance, Jane Maughan, Social Science.

DAVIS HIGH STERLING SCHOLARS

Back row: Breah Christofferson (Business & Marketing), Brock Deru (Instrumental), Aspen Ahlquist (Dance), Sarah Robinson (World Language) Middle row: Abby Gray (Math), Sophia Brown (Speech/Theater Arts/Forensics), Anna Larsen (English), Morgen Davis (Vocal) Front row: Oaklie Arnell (Social Science), Maren Eaton (Family & Consumer Science), Derek Shutz (Computer Technology), Katelin Seaman (Visual Arts)

Front

FARMINGTON HIGH STERLING SCHOLARS

VIEWMONT HIGH STERLING SCHOLARS

Top row: Patrick Neal, Business & Marketing; Korey Christensen, Science; Samantha Clinger, Speech/Theater Arts; Brandon Wallis, Social Science; Carly McBride, English; Mia Clark, Family & Consumer Sciences; Ashlyn Smith, Computer Tech. Bottom row: Madalyn Thiriot, Instrumental Performance; Esther Clayton, World Languages; Ethan Tea, Skilled & Technical Sciences; Elisanora Penerosa, Vocal Performance; Alexa Jones, Visual Arts; Halli Burnett, Mathematics; Hailey Williams, Dance.

Row (L-R): Hannah Hafen, Elizabeth Ernstrom, Carson Graves, Jared Tholen, Mathew Scoresby, Christopher Hunter, Mylee Merrill Back Row (L-R): Colby Thornton, Madelyn Hammond, Katie Crabtree, Kristina McCammon, Emma Phippen, Reagan Petersen. Not Pictured: Abby Green

Throughout the ages, there have been many important advances in mobility. Canes, walkers, rollators, and scooters were created to help people with mobility issues get around and retain their independence. Lately, however, there haven’t been any new improvements to these existing products or developments in this field Until now. Recently, an innovative design engineer who’s developed one of the world’s most popular products created a completely new breakthrough . . . a personal electric vehicle. It’s called the Zinger, and there is nothing out there quite like it.

“What my wife especially loves is it gives her back feelings of safety and independence which has given a real boost to her confidence and happiness! Thank You!”

–Kent C., California

The first thing you’ll notice about the Zinger is its unique look. It doesn’t look like a scooter. Its sleek, lightweight yet durable frame is made with aircraft grade aluminum so it weighs only 47.2 lbs. It features onetouch folding and unfolding – when folded it can be wheeled around like a suitcase and fits easily into a

and

10”

backseat or trunk. Then, there are the steering levers. They enable the Zinger to move forward, backward, turn on a dime and even pull right up to a table or desk. With its compact yet powerful motor it can go up to 6 miles an hour and its rechargeable battery can go up to 8 miles on a single charge. With its low center of gravity and inflatable tires it can handle rugged terrain and is virtually tip-proof. Think about it, you can take your Zinger almost anywhere, so you don’t have to let mobility issues rule your life.

Why take our word for it? Call now, and find out how you can get a Zinger of your very own.

From the people who brought you Syncrete, nepotistic construction contracts and the ThrU Turn fiasco intersection, comes a mind-boggling project guaranteed to be unnecessary and over budget: the Little Cottonwood Canyon gondola.

The Utah Department of Transportation isn’t known for its rational, effective projects. It spent years studying the LCC traffic situation before making the wrong decision, but at least they didn’t go with the Little Cottonwood zeppelin.

Color me unimpressed with UDOT. Take 5400 South. Please. I travel this road every day and I know UDOT doesn’t understand east-west travel. Going from my home in Kearns to the I-15 interchange in Murray includes nearly 20 stoplights along that 7-mile stretch and I usually hit every. single. one.

There was a legend that if you drove exactly 42.3 mph, under the light of a full moon, you could travel 5400 South without stopping at one red light. Not true.

I blame my road rage on UDOT.

So, let’s talk about the gondola. With UDOT approving the nearly $600 million project, it must have overwhelming support. Nope. Local mayors, residents, environmental groups, Bigfoot and county leaders don’t want this to happen. A majority of the tens

Kinder Life and Laughter

of thousands of public comments are against the gondola.

Just a hair short of sketchy, Snowbird quietly bought land that could (will) be used for the gondola station at the base of Little Cottonwood. When the time comes, Snowbird will sell or donate (ha-ha) that land to the state.

Hikers, fishermen, sightseers and climbers don’t want the gondola. They don’t want to ride the entire length of the gondola system if their destination isn’t a ski resort. I guess UDOT could add a base-jumping experience if you want to parachute out of the gondola halfway up the canyon. But it will probably have an extra fee.

Measuring 8 miles, it will be the longest gondola system in the world and includes nearly two dozen towers, averaging 185 feet high. That’s about 17 stories. UDOT said the towers will be placed up the canyon by helicopters, like they’ll gently rest on the forest

floor where tree roots will wind around the base to hold them down, becoming part of the natural landscape.

No. Each tower will have a huge concrete base, requiring boulders and trees to be demolished. Not only that, but construction could disrupt animal migration patterns, pollute the watershed and highlight UDOT’s decision-making legacy.

UDOT explored options like rideshare programs, electric buses and road tolls that are less invasive, especially when trying to solve a traffic problem that only happens a few days a year. But those alternatives aren’t expensive and ridiculous, so that was a “no” vote from UDOT.

When you factor inflation, the project’s cost will be about $72 gajillion, paid for with “mystery funding” which we all know usually means “taxpayer dollars” in some fash-

ion. Even if you’ve never skied a day in your life, your tax dollars will probably help pay for a system designed by ski resorts, for ski resorts.

We’ve riddled this country with aging infrastructure. Obsolete railways, cables, steel and wiring lie unused and rusting. When the gondola becomes outdated, our grandchildren’s grandchildren will be stuck with the awful towers standing forever in the sacred space of Little Cottonwood.

UDOT’s track record is abysmal. I remember when it spent $700,000 to remove the stupid ThrU Turn on 5400 South. UDOT said the intersection wasn’t a mistake, just unnecessary.

That could be UDOT’s tagline: Building unnecessary mistakes. l

Peri