Cottonwood Heights Journal | March 2025

Cottonwood Heights Figure Skating Club holds memorial vigil to honor lives of skaters

By Jolene Croasmun | j.croasmun@mycityjournals.com

OnJan. 29, an American Airlines plane collided with a Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac River killing all passengers onboard both aircrafts.

The plane was carrying 60 passengers and 28 of them were members of the figure skating community that included skaters, family members and coaches. They were returning home from a skating training camp in Kansas City.

“U.S. Figure skating sent an email that many of the figure skating clubs on the east coast were planning on holding a vigil on Monday. They wanted to share that with the rest of the clubs in the U.S. so that they could all hold one day of mourning together,” said Emily Johnson who is on the board of directors of the Cottonwood Heights figure skating club.

The Cottonwood Heights Figure Skating Club board members organized a memorial vigil on Feb. 3 to honor the skaters, coaches and families who lost their lives in the recent plane crash. It was held at the Cottonwood Heights Recreation Center.

“We opened the vigil to all skaters in the valley so we had skaters from several clubs come to join the vigil,” Johnson said.

“All the skaters came out on the ice,” Jane Cogswell, president of the Intermountain Interclub Association said. There were roses placed in the center with candles. Then the rest of the skaters lined up and placed 28 roses which were in remembrance of the 28 skaters, coaches and family members that were lost.”

“Emily Johnson read the names of the skaters and families and the coaches who were

involved in the crash and took a moment to bring attention to the loss and heartache that is for our family because figure skating is a close-knit community. She brought all of our attention to the individual lives. Then all the skaters came together in a circle with their flameless candles and stood there for a moment of silence for three minutes,” Cogswell said.

“Even if you didn’t know someone who died you could see the feeling of reverence in the room. It brought tears to my eyes to see the solemn moment,” Cogswell added. Johnson said “seeing the individual roses that represented the 28 lives that were lost was like the most shocking and moving part of it. Seeing all of those together really resonated how many 28 lives were.”

The Intermountain Interclub Association governs over 10 figure skating clubs that go from Logan to Provo in Utah. They start with basic skill skaters on up to those competing with Olympic aspirations. “You will compete against the same skaters and we become friends through all this process,” Cogswell

Roses and candles were carried by local skaters during a moment of silence for the members of the skating community who died in the plane crash. Continued page 5

Figure skaters carry roses and flameless candles in a vigil held at Cottonwood Heights Recreation Center on behalf of the skaters, coaches and families that died in the recent plane crash. (Photo courtesy John S. Brown)

A young skater about to take the ice holds a rose and candle during the vigil held on Feb. 3. (Photo courtesy John S. Brown)

Ladies Take the Lead with Experience, Passion and Purpose at CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospitals

“Ido this work for my father, for families like ours, and ultimately, for the glory of God,” said Martha Boutsikakis Gamble, Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) at Holy Cross Hospital - West Valley and registered nurse for over 20 years.

For many, a career in healthcare is more of a calling - a decision made that was shaped by past experiences with loved ones, or even personal health scares of their own. This type of desire to care for others and passion to pursue a career in healthcare rings especially true for the ladies who are taking the lead at our CommonSpirit Health Holy Cross Hospitals in West Jordan and West Valley City.

Martha was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, to immigrant parents from Crete, Greece. While her parents spoke conversational English, her role as the eldest child often involved translating for them in settings where language wasn’t necessarily the barrier but rather, cultural understanding wasthis included translating at her dad’s appointments with his dietitian.

“When I was only about 11 or 12 years old, my father was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes,” said Martha. “It quickly became clear during his appointments that the meal recommendations we were receiving didn’t align with the food we grew up eating, nor did they consider the cultural context of our meals.”

In an attempt to adapt to the dietitian’s recommendations, the meals Martha and her family ate were repetitive… for nearly a decade.

“These early experiences fostered in me a calling—not only to serve but to advocate for

communities like mine, where language and culture can create unseen barriers to quality healthcare,” said Martha.

For Christine McSweeney, President of Holy Cross Hospitals - Jordan Valley and West Valley, her path to healthcare leadership began as a passion to explore the science behind nutrition and how to properly fuel our bodies.

“I’m a science nerd at heart,” said Christine. “I get excited about seeing people and myself thrive and improve through proper nutrition and care”

Christine’s career began at Banner Health in Arizona where she was a clinical dietitian. Over the course of 20 years, Christine climbed the ranks to eventually serve as Chief Operating Officer of a large academic center in downtown Phoenix before she joined the CommonSpirit Health leadership team five years ago, stepping into her current President role in 2023.

“My experience here in Utah has been like no other. It is full of neighbors helping neighbors, strong family values, amazing outdoor beauty and a true haven for healthy lifestyles. This way of living and thinking really brings me back to my roots as a dietitian” said Christine. “In addition, it certainly doesn’t hurt that the people we have working for CommonSpirit in the Greater Salt Lake market are loyal, dedicated and lean into our mission with their values first!”

Katie Flores, CNO at Holy Cross HospitalMountain Point and Interim CNO at Holy Cross Hospital - Jordan Valley, kicked off her healthcare

career in 2001 as a registered nurse - initially caring for patients at the bedside in Med/Surg and in the Emergency Department.

Over the years, Katie transitioned into leadership roles and has been serving as CNO for the last 10 years. A passionate caregiver, Katie’s background actually started with a dream to work in broadcast media… but that quickly changed.

“I realized early on that broadcast wasn’t the right fit for me - I felt a lack of connection and fulfillment so I pursued a career that would allow me to make a meaningful impact on others,” said Katie. “After going through some personal life experiences that led me to seek healthcare myself, I decided to make a change. I went back to school to pursue a career in healthcare—one that I could feel passionate about every day and truly connect with on a deeper level.”

Though different backgrounds and experiences fuel this leadership team’s passion to do what they do every day, Christine shared that the common thread between them all is, “This team of women lead with strength, confidence, curiosity, determination and heart…. it is present in everything we do and apparent in the quality of care our hospitals provide. I cannot wait to see all we continue to accomplish, together.”

At CommonSpirit Health, we make the healing presence of God known in our world by improving the health of the people we serve, especially those who are vulnerable, while we advance social justice for all.

Learn more about the services, care providers and missiondriven work of the Holy Cross hospitals and CommonSpirit Health at www.holycrossutah.org.

Canyons School District’s chess tournament puts middle schoolers in check

Indian Hills Middle repeat as middle school chess tournament champs; but coaches say all players learn more than the game.

By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

For 17 years, Union Middle School safety advocate Ginger Gines is a dedicated coach, guiding students through the highs and lows of intramurals.

“I love the kids,” she said. “I love to coach them. I want them to all feel like they’re important, even if they don’t win. The skills they learn—like communication and teamwork—are invaluable.”

She adds: “It’s not just about my team winning. I want all the students to succeed, even those from other schools. I cheer for everyone.”

Gines was one of 10 coaches at Canyons School District’s middle school chess tournament where the top eight chess players from each of the middle schools sat at tables playing opponents of equal skill levels.

“Even though chess is an individual sport, the intramurals program helps students who may not have access to traditional team sports,” she said. “They still develop camaraderie, learn from each other, and grow together. It’s an amazing environment to be a part of.”

Gines, also a coach for cross country, basketball and soccer, believes students are gaining far more than they expect through intramurals.

“Chess helps with concentration, determination and sportsmanship,” she explained. “Students learn how to interact with others, even those who aren’t on their team. It’s about improving every time.”

After hours of playing one snowy Janu-

ary Saturday morning, Indian Hills emerged as the back-to-back champions of the intramural chess tournament, narrowly defeating Albion Middle School by one point. Midvale Middle School took third.

In between rounds, students bonded, some supporting their teammates and making friends.

Indian Hills eighth-grader Sam Broadbent played a game of chess against Midvale Middle eighth-grader Elijah Woolley in the bleachers.

“I like chess; I like to challenge myself,” said Sam, who was a board winner last year and again, this year. “It’s like a puzzle. You have to figure out how to trap the other person or untrap yourself.”

Elijah enjoys the calmer pace of chess compared to other sports.

“It’s just more relaxing than something like football,” he said. “It’s not as physically intense, but it’s still competitive and fun.”

Both boys also ran cross country in the fall. March will bring three-on-three intramural basketball tournaments and soccer will be played in May.

Coaching with Gines is eighth-grade math teacher Ily Murdock.

“I love seeing how chess provides a level playing field for multilingual students, even those who speak limited English,” Murdock said. “It transcends language barriers, and the kids are respectful, focused and engaged in the game. They come to my classroom after school, eager to set up their chess boards, and when they’re done, they clean up. I like how we’re building positive relationships in my classroom outside of math.”

Murdock sees the cognitive benefits of chess.

“Playing chess strengthens their logic skills. They’re noticing patterns. There are building resiliency and it’s a game which

appeals to boys and girls, those who may not be interested in traditional sports,” she said.

Many Union players who had finished their rounds were playing more relaxed games.

“It’s nice they’re playing in between rounds. They’re playing a low stakes game of Spot. It calms them down. They’re all playing together; it’s helping with vocabulary and they’re having fun. I suggested they wear nerdy hats to remind them chess is a game and to have fun today.”

Draper Park eighth-grade math teacher Shannen Moore learned to play at her elementary after-school program in California though she never competed. Now she’s coaching her own team.

“We practice once per week for an hour for 10 weeks,” she said. “We focus on the rules of the tournament and getting comfortable with things like using timers. It’s a great way for students to develop their strategic thinking, handle wins and losses, and use their minds to succeed, instead of relying on physical skills. They also get a chance to play against people they don’t know, which is a valuable experience.”

Jessica Pike, Midvale Middle’s eighthgrade science teacher, stepped up to be coach for the 20 students who were eager to join the school’s chess program.

“I love watching the kids grow their skills, figure out how to win and gain social skills,” she said. “The club members have become good friends and often bring their chess boards to school to play when they can. Chess is a great way to spend time together after school.”

District intramurals coordinator Taylor Hansen said the chess program expanded last year, increasing from six to eight students per school.

“Intramurals are participation based, not competition based,” he said. “It naturally

becomes competition based, but we wanted to have more people participate. It’s giving them opportunity to learn, to play, to connect and to have fun.”

Individual board winners: Board 1 – Wade Woodbury, Albion Board 2 – Sam Chen, Draper Park Board 3 – Yuun Kim, Midvale Board 4 – Oliver Seal, Indian Hills Board 5 – Samuel Humphrey, Indian Hills Board 6 – Charlie Griggs, Albion Board 7 – James Gardner, Indian Hills and William Baxter, Midvale Board 8 – Sam Broadbent, Indian Hills l

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Figure skaters carry roses and flameless candles in a vigil held at Cottonwood Heights Recreation Center on behalf of the skaters, coaches and families that died in the recent plane crash. (John S. Brown/ Millcreek)

Continued from front page said.

The skating club was not at the Kansas City high development camp but some of the Park City coaches and skaters had just returned from this camp.

“Park City Figure Skating Club held a memorial as well but because they had members that attended the same Kansas City camp, they kept it very private. They brought in a psychologist to talk to the skaters because some of them were very close to the other skaters,” Cogswell said.

The tragedy hit close to home. U.S. Figure Skating has provided hotlines for the skaters and teams to talk to if needed.

“We have all traveled to competitions, and I can’t imagine the loss that those skating clubs are feeling now,” Cogswell said.

Johnson said the biggest impact was opening lines of communication among the skaters allowing them to share their experience.

“After the vigil most of them just sat together and cried together and it was really therapeutic,” said Johnson.

“It is a moment of healing,” Cogswell said. “Not only to mourn for their loss but how we can celebrate their life. How we can live their legacy and carry that flame and torch with us. We can remember them as we progress and honor their work and dedication and continue to do that in our skating journey.” l

April is Parkinson’s awareness month. Local starts organization using dance to combat Parkinson’s effects.

By Collette Hayes c.hayes@mycityjournals.com

Whatcommon thread connects the lives of Brett Favre, Michael Clapier, Neil Diamond, Dan Gwin, Michael J. Fox and Linda Ronstadt? They are courageous artists and athletes who have confronted the challenges of Parkinson’s disease (PD) with determination and resilience. Refusing to yield to the debilitating effects of the condition, they continue to inspire others to live life to the fullest, regardless of the obstacles.

A theater major in college, local resident Michael Clapier has enjoyed a diverse career as a dancer, stand-up comedian, and, for over 30 years, a wrestling coach. Even after receiving a PD diagnosis five years ago, a quick smile and a firm handshake remain trademarks of his outlook on life.

“My wife Linda and I have always walked together, and gradually we noticed a change,” Clapier said. “I slumped, shuffled, and could not stand straight. Soon friends were asking what was wrong. Not long after, I sat down with my doctor and asked, ‘Why am I so tired? I feel like I can’t move.’ She looked at me and said, ‘You might have Parkinson’s.’ A conversation with a neurologist later confirmed it: ‘Yeah, you’ve got it.’”

After receiving medical advice from his doctor, Clapier began doing some research on his own about PD. He came across a conversation with Joanna Hamilton, Ph.D., ABPP-CN, of Advanced Neurobiological Health of Southern California, who indicated that movement might be a beneficial way of slowing the progression of the disease.

Clapier started thinking about his athletic and dance background and what could be done to fight back against his physical and mental deteriorating condition caused in part by a dopamine deficiency. Dopamine is a neurochemical transmitter that controls movement and emotion. In Parkinson’s disease, the brain cells that produce dopamine are damaged. As the disease progresses, more cells die, and the brain produces less dopamine, leading to greater movement difficulties.

“Parkinson’s disease studies have found movement as beneficial as any of our pharmacological agents,” Clapier said. “From this information, I then asked myself this question: if there is no cure for PD and movement may slow its progression of the disease, how could I create an enjoyable way to gain movement? My life experience

DanceBack Against Parkinson’s disease

has trained me to find a better way to create a difference when faced with a challenge. As a dancer, athlete and entertainer, I understand how to condition, stretch and strengthen the muscles that move us. Reflecting on this, I recognized the great power of movement, and realized I could help both myself and others who are experiencing this condition.”

Clapier decided to DanceBack Against Parkinson’s Disease instead of fight back. His mission statement includes helping as many people as possible improve muscle movement in a supportive environment. He envisioned meeting people at their level, focusing on large muscle movement, accelerating the heart rate, stretching, cross-hemisphere brain function movement and improving balance.

Recognizing the importance of physical activity, The Parkinson’s Foundation suggests a minimum of 2.5 hours of movement a week. To support this goal, The Dance Box Studio graciously opened its space for Clapier, where he now teaches dance twice weekly. Additionally, Clapier extends his DanceBack reach by visiting assisted living centers during the week to help residents achieve their movement goals. Through his consistent dedication, Clapier is making a difference in the lives of those affected by Parkinson’s disease.

Former Utah Symphony cellist and bass player Dan Gwin has been living with Parkinson’s disease for 17 years. Gwin says lifting his cello bow to the strings has now become challenging. During a recent DanceBack class, the heavy beat of Keith Urban’s “Texas Time” flowed through the speakers; Clapier extended his hand to Gwin, helping him out of his wheelchair to provide support; Linda Clapier was soon by Gwin’s other side, helping to provide balance. Immediately, Gwin smiled and began to pick up the dance steps with little effort and in perfect rhythm to the country tune, “Come on let’s get back on Texas Time!”

“We strongly believe that our DanceBack program can help people with PD,” Linda Clapier said. “We can choose to cry or we can choose to laugh. Michael and I chose not to cry. While our dance program can not cure the disease, those who visit our studio and participate in our classes begin to experience the benefits of movement for symptoms and conditions such as depression, anxiety, physical limitations and feelings of isolation that many face as a result of the condition.”

Parkinson’s disease is rising in the U.S.

Neurological disorders are now the leading source of disability worldwide, and PD is the fastest-growing neurological disorder. According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, nearly one million people in the U.S. are living with the condition. This number is expected to rise to 1.2 million by 2030.

Who has Parkinson’s disease? Each year, approximately 90,000 Americans are diagnosed with PD. The incidence of the condition increases with age; however, an estimated 4% of people are diagnosed before the age of 50.

How does Utah compare with the U.S.? In Utah, there are more than 6,500 individuals living with PD. In 2022, Utah had the highest rate of Parkinson’s disease-related deaths per 100,000 people in the United States, as reported by the Parkinson’s Foundation.

In a recent conversation with Dr. Jumana Alshaikh, a neurologist and movement disorders specialist at the University of Utah Health Center, the high prevalence of PD in Utah is an interesting observation that is not fully understood yet. It is thought that the high prevalence of PD in Utah could be caused by an interplay of genetic predis-

position in combination with certain environmental factors and healthcare awareness and diagnosis. Research suggests age, gender, genetics and environment play a role in developing the disease

Most people diagnosed with PD are around 60 years old, and men are 50% more likely to develop the condition than women. Former NFL player Brett Favre was diagnosed with PD in 2024 at age 54, attributing his condition to possibly suffering over 1,000 concussions during his 20-season career. Although medical opinions widely vary, a 2020 study published in Family Medicine and Community Health supports his theory, stating that a single concussion increases the risk of developing Parkinson’s by 57%. Favre now advocates for football player safety.

Actor Michael J. Fox a well-known ad-

Michael and Linda Clapier: Michael Clapier decided to DanceBack Against Parkinson’s disease instead of “fight back.” His mission statement includes helping as many people as possible improve muscle movement in a supportive environment. (Photo courtesy Linda Clapier)

Recognizing the importance of physical activity, The Parkinson’s Foundation suggests a minimum of 2.5 hours of movement a week. To support this goal, The Dance Box Studio graciously opened its space for Michael Clapier, where he now teaches dance twice weekly. (Photo courtesy Linda Clapier)

vocate for people with Parkinson’s disease was diagnosed with the condition at age 29. He feels partying may have contributed to his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis in 1991. Fox has made the statement; “Genetics loads the gun and environment pulls the trigger.”

Dale Heaps, a participant in DanceBack Against Parkinson’s Disease, believes that his career as a historical documentation specialist may have contributed to his PD from years of exposure to the chemicals on the adhesive tape that he was frequently exposed to during document restoration.

“We do think that environmental factors could play a role in the risk for developing PD,” Alshaikh said. “For many of those environmental factors that could be associated with a higher risk of PD we don’t have high quality evidence yet to directly blame that environmental factor as the cause, since association does not necessarily mean causation. Also, many people are exposed to these same environmental factors and never get PD.”

Exercise has been found to be one of the most effective treatments for PD

“Although exercise is great for many reasons,” Alshaikh said, “exercise does not cure PD or reverse the brain damage that has already happened. Still, exercise is important for PD patients for the following reasons.

1. It can slow down the rate at which the disease is progressing in the brain.

2. It can train PD patients to make their movements faster and bigger.

3. It can improve the response to PD medications making them work better and feel more effective.

4. It can improve cognition and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

5. Exercise enhances mood and can help improve anxiety and depression.

6. Improved sleep quality, improved healthy gut movement.

7. Increased mobility and reduced pain related to muscle stiffness, helps keep bones strong.

8. Exercise reduces the risk of other health conditions such as diabetes, stroke, heart disease that could further negatively impact quality of life for patients with PD. Prioritize a healthy lifestyle and positive outlook

According to Alshaikh, PD can manifest differently in each person. Symptoms, challenges and the rate of progression vary widely. Seeing someone with more advanced symptoms doesn’t necessarily predict one’s future, as each journey with PD is distinct. It’s important to focus on the things you can control. Prioritize brain health, maintain an active lifestyle through regular exercise, and establish care with a neurologist experienced in treating PD.

Alshaikh said, “Remember, while PD may present challenges, there is power in focusing on what you can do today to improve your well-being and contribute to the larger fight against the disease.”

A call to action

April is Parkinson’s awareness month. Get involved by helping to make a difference for those living with Parkinson’s disease.

“You can contribute to the fight against PD by volunteering for research studies that advanced our understanding and treatment of the disease,” Alshaikh suggests. “Alternatively, you could support the community by donating time, resources or money or by sharing your story to raise awareness and inspire others.”

Development Manager for the Rocky Mountain Chapter of the Parkinson’s Foundation, Kristin Courington, invites everyone to participate in “Moving Day” Saturday, May 3 at Liberty Park. Moving Day is an inspiring and empowering annual fundraising walk event that unites people around the country living with PD, their care partners and loved ones to help beat PD. Moving Day is more than just a walk. It’s a celebration of movement – proven to help manage Parkinson’s symptoms.

Join Michael and Linda Clapier at The Dance Box Studio, 4707 S. Holladay Boulevard, to DanceBack against Parkinson’s disease. For more information about the class schedule, text Michael at 801-809-7264 or email him at clapiermichael@gmail.com.

Join the Parkinson’s Foundation for

munity. Activities will begin at 9 a.m. Vendors will be sharing their resources for the community, there will be exercise demonstrations, entertainment, food, prizes and the 1.5-mile walk around Liberty Park.

To make a donation to the Parkinson’s Foundation visit: www.movingDaySalt

kinson’s Foundation contact Kristin Courington at kcourington@parkinsosn.org.

Sidney Heil, Parkinson’s Outreach Department of Neurology, University of Utah, is a resource for people who have recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Contact her at 801-585-2354. l

Michael Clapier guides Ann Eldredge. Clapier extends his DanceBack program reach by visiting assisted living centers during the week to help residents achieve their movement goals. (Photo courtesy Linda Clapier)

Cottonwood Heights,

Updates from the 2025 Legislative Session

standing-room-only spaces.

“Three years – this guy has been trying to get it through. And he took the torch from someone else,” Bennion said.

By Cassie Goff c.goff@mycityjournals.com

The2025 Legislative Session is well underway. Hearing concerns from residents and sharing bill updates, Representative for District 46 Gay Lynn Bennion and Senator for District 15 Kathleen Riebe hosted a townhall Jan. 29 at Brighton High School (2220 Bengal Blvd.). Over 40 attendees asked for updates on the session including House of Representative intern Ashlee Jackson, Senate intern Jackson Sheen, Town of Alta Mayor Roger Bourke and Brighton High School students.

Before jumping into individual bills, Riebe and Bennion asked attendees to get involved with their state and local governments. They mentioned there are over 140 boards and commissions (some only meet once per month or a few times per year) for residents to get involved in.

“We really need your voices,” Riebe said. “The governor can appoint people… and they don’t even meet the description.”

One of the most talked-about and controversial bills this session – H.B. 267: Public Sector Labor Union Amendments sponsored by Rep. Jordan Teuscher and Sen. Kirk Cullimore – was passed and signed by Gov. Spencer Cox on Feb. 14, right before a threeday holiday weekend.

“There were hundreds of people who wanted to talk against this bill and it still passed,” Riebe said. “I wanted to ask him how many people need to take off work to come up here to have their voice heard. Cox does not support unionized labor.”

Riebe recounted a record-breaking number of people who showed up in opposition to this bill. Four overflow rooms were completely full with people still filling in the

This bill focuses on public employees, public safety employees, and public fire labor organizations (which does include teachers, firefighters, police and transit workers).

“They are very annoyed with the teachers who keep killing their bills so they had to bring the firefighters in,” Riebe said.

Beginning May 7, employers will be prohibited from entering into collective bargaining contracts and recognizing unions as bargaining agents. Public money and property will be prohibited from assisting, promoting or determining unions from organizing. In addition, new labor organization employees will be excluded from participating in Utah Retirement Systems, among other things.

Riebe shared the origin story of H.B. 269: Privacy Protections in Sex-designated Areas sponsored by Rep. Stephanie Gricius and Sen. Brady Brammer. A single student who was attending Utah State University and living on-campus was uncomfortable with their RA who is transgender.

As the Governor signed this bill Feb. 14, the Utah Board of Higher Education will now be required to provide guidance regarding student housing. The bill also “narrows an exception for a prohibition on sex-based distinctions…and a student’s participation in a certain gender-designated interscholastic activity.”

“The biggest problem with this bill for me is that it came from one circumstance,” Riebe said. “We do not need to mandate how each university mandates their own communities. This should be left to the universities.”

S.B. 135: Educational Medical Services Amendment was last (as of publication) held in the Senate Committee on Feb. 7. Broadly, this bill would define terms related to educational medical services by reevaluating district costs related to extraordinary educa-

tional and medical expenses.

“We have one nurse per 800 students,” Riebe said. “We have secretaries (who have no medical training) that are providing insulin to kids.”

Riebe mentioned how the smallest districts in the state get hit hard by how the funding is allocated based on district. Depending on the needs of the student population, sometimes all the available resources will be tapped for one student.

H.B. 99: Residential Mortgage Loan Amendments sponsored by Bennion and Sen. Wayne Harper would allow for citations to be issued when residential mortgage loans violate trigger lead standards. This bill specifics a 20-day time period for citations to be contested. As of publication, this bill was on its third Senate reading.

“There is an increasing number of build-for-rent communities where all housing is for rent and none are for sale,” Bennion said. “We are losing home ownership in this county. Summit (County) communities

are already 75% second home or short-term rentals.”

Bennion is also sponsoring: H.B. 89: Water Transfer Amendments (circled in Senate on Feb. 19); H.B. 151: Home Sales Amendments (held in Standing Committee on Feb. 16); H.B. 180: Employment Compensation Amendments (held in House Committee on Feb. 14); H.B. 182: Rental Amendments (failed in House Committee on Jan. 31); and H.B.196: Vehicle Traction Amendments (circled from Senate second reading on Feb. 19).

Riebe is also sponsoring: S.B. 236: State Parks Amendments (not considered in Committee on Feb. 12); S.B. 229: Organ Donor Amendments (moved to Taxation Committee on Feb. 21); S.B. 167: Guardianship Modifications (in Senate Rules Committee on Jan. 27); and S.B. 141: Office of Student Health Affairs (in Education Committee on Jan. 24). l

Riebe’s District covers Cottonwood Heights, Brighton, parts of Alta, parts of Midvale, parts of South Jordan, and parts of Sandy. (Photo courtesy of Reibe)

Bennion’s District covers Draper, parts of Bluffdale, and parts of Sandy. (Photo courtesy of Bennion)

Ridgecrest Elementary rings in Chinese New Year with color, culture and community

Songs, dance and creative fun highlight the traditional Ridgecrest Elementary Chinese New Year festival.

By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Fourth-grader Ellie Hsieh was adding jade and a snake charm to her knotted keychain alongside her classmates at one of the activity tables set up for Ridgecrest Elementary’s Chinese New Year celebration.

Students and their families participated in various activities, from practicing calligraphy with ink and brushes to using chopsticks to pick up fortune cookies. Some even crafted colorful paper snakes to celebrate the Year of the Snake.

Ellie was also part of a 10-member fan dance group, one of the final performances of the event. The group volunteered to practice after school for several weeks.

“It was really fun hearing all the fans open at once,” Ellie said. “That was really cool.”

Principal Sara Allen emphasized how adding more dances, such as the fan dance, made the celebration even more special.

“We introduced new performances to involve more people,” Allen said. “Our New Year celebration goes beyond just red envelopes and the zodiac. We aim to bring greater cultural awareness through activities like jade knot tying and diablo yo-yos.”

Earlier in the event, students from the Chinese dual language immersion program took the stage, beginning with a traditional Lion Dance. Fifth graders then performed a song called “Spring Festival Firework Sounds” to usher in the new year, while first graders sang the “Chinese Zodiac Song,” highlighting the 12 animals and their traits.

Fourth graders performed “The Brightest Star in the Night Sky,” which speaks about how family and friends guide people through difficult times. Second graders sang about how a smile is as beautiful as spring flowers, and third graders performed a song of gratitude for families, teachers and the natural world titled “Thankful Heart.”

The performances concluded with fan, dragon and ribbon dances.

Vince and Linsey Hsieh watched their daughter at the craft tables, feeling grateful they enrolled her in Canyons School District’s dual language program when she was in first grade. Their son, Evan, now in seventh grade at Butler Middle School where the event was held, is also part of the immersion program, which continues through 12th grade.

“I don’t speak Mandarin, but my parents do,” said Vince Hsieh, who grew up learning Cantonese and English. “I wanted my kids to have a relationship with my parents because their English isn’t great. This

program helps them connect.”

Ellie agrees: “My brother and I can speak and understand our grandparents, which is really cool. And when we talk to each other, it feels like a secret language since my parents don’t understand.”

The Hsieh family values learning about different cultures. Linsey Hsieh will teach Ellie and her brother about her Jewish traditions, while they learn about Chinese celebrations such as the Moon Festival from their father’s side of the family, as well as customs and language at school.

“I like they get to embed themselves into part of the culture,” Vince Hsieh said. “It opens up their world up and helps them see things from other cultural perspectives.”

Ridgecrest Elementary, which began its Chinese New Year celebration in 2013, has an enrollment of nearly 500 students. Of those, principal Allen estimates about 210 first through fifth graders are enrolled in the immersion program. The school celebration drew more than 800 attendees.

“The goal of Ridgecrest’s celebration is always to go beyond the dual language group and include everyone, and I think we’ve achieved that tonight,” Allen said.

First-grader Royce Mixon attended the celebration with his mom, Tyanna, and his grandma, Jessica Howe.

“He wanted to support his classmates

in the Chinese program,” Howe said. “He’s learning about what other countries celebrate and believe in.”

Royce, who has picked up a few Mandarin words despite not being in the dual language program, said he could understand some of his classmates’ songs.

“I like them singing in Chinese,” he said. “They were really good.” l

Ridgecrest Elementary’s students and their families participated in various activities, from using chopsticks to pick up fortune cookies to making colorful paper snakes to celebrate the Year of the Snake during the school’s Chinese New Year celebration. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Ridgecrest students perform the Dragon Dance during their Chinese New Year festival, one of many performances presented to the community. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

women’s SECTION

A publication covering local influential women in honor of International Women’s Day

Kelly Bush leads Kearns through cityhood and community growth

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

From an Army air base during WWII to one of Salt Lake County’s newest cities, Kearns has a history of pride, diversity and community. Kearns Mayor Kelly Bush has led the charge in getting respect and recognition for the nearly 38,000 residents who call Kearns home.

It’s no easy task to build a government entity from scratch, but that’s exactly what Bush has done over the last few years, taking Kearns from a metro township in 2015 to a city in May 2024. She served in several leadership roles in the community before being appointed mayor in 2018.

“We were coming out of a time when nobody had voices. A lot of these communities had been neglected,” Bush said. “Our roads were run down, we had poor lighting. People were pretty frustrated that a lot of things were not happening. They didn’t feel like they had a voice.”

The elected officials in Kearns, and other unincorporated areas in Salt Lake County, believed they would be the voice for their residents to County officials. It was only after the first meeting with the County that leaders in those areas learned they were supposed to create their own legislative bodies.

“Honestly, I think at the time that not one person in the County expected this, for any of us to come as far as we had,” she said. “We were never set up to succeed and, to be honest, I never thought we would…We were relentless fighters and dreamers and knew what these communities wanted and what we needed. We were going to succeed and we built a government from the ground up.”

For years, cities surrounding Kearns had slowly eroded the area’s tax base. West Valley City, West Jordan and Taylorsville had cherry-picked commercial areas to incorporate, leaving Kearns with more than 37,000 residents and a limited tax base.

Discussions were held about being absorbed into one of the surrounding cities, but no city wanted to take on the additional expense of nearly 38,000 residents. Bush and her team had to make it work. By applying for federal monies and grants, Bush was able to secure millions of dollars for improvements in the city, including a recent road project that overhauled 6200 South.

“I would hope the one thing that I’ve done that would make the most difference is giving these people a voice,” she said. “They can get mad or they can love it but they should expect honesty from whoever represents them.”

Bush grew up in Millcreek, graduating from Skyline High School. She moved to Kearns after she got married to raise her family. She rejects the perception that Kearns is a dangerous city, saying it’s no more dangerous than any other city in the Salt Lake Valley.

She feels privileged to represent such a diverse community that includes Somalian, Vietnamese, Hispanic and Latino cultures, and many others.

“My kids had so many different types of experiences,” she said. “They experienced all the different cultures their friends had and there were so many different cultures. They got to go to different parties. They got to go to different churches. They got to go over and eat the different foods and they were always invited to all these super cool celebrations. It was so much fun because we made so many different types of friends. That was not something I experienced

on the east side.”

Kearns City Councilmember Crystal Butterfield has worked with Bush since 2020. Butterfield credits the mayor with getting the Oquirrh Shadows Unified Fire Authority Fire Station No. 107 reopened, improving roads and lighting conditions, staying on top of legislation that affects Kearns and keeping the city afloat through numerous grant opportunities.

“She has been instrumental in getting the things that we need and working behind the scenes with a lot of stuff I don’t even see,” Butterfield said. “She has been instrumental in making sure that we get grants and funding so we have extra resources. I’m just amazed at how many grants she can pull in.”

Bush is not running for re-election this year but hopes to be hired as the Kearns city manager in 2026. She is proud to represent a diverse community with a small-town feel and to dedicate her time to connecting to residents who feel like family to her.

When the locally-owned La Placita Market burned down in January, the Kearns community rallied to support one of their own. Bush said that’s just the way things are done in the city.

“Our community will celebrate with each other and mourn with each other,” she said. “They stick together. They are there for each other no matter what and you better never mess with them. They are K-Town all the way.”

Mayor Bush will not run for reelection but hopes to work as the Kearns city manager in 2026

Kelly Bush spends time with firefighters from the United Fire Authority. As the mayor of Kearns, Bush worked to reopen the Oquirrh Shadows Fire Station #107 on 5600 West. (Photo courtesy of Kelly Bush)

Herriman’s female assistant city manager overcomes obstacles to make a difference

By Elisa Eames | e.eames@mycityjournals.com

A 17-year veteran of local government, assistant city manager Wendy Thomas understands the value of diligence and determination; reaching her current position wasn’t easy.

“[It has been] a lot of long hours and hard work. It was taking on extra responsibilities, making hard decisions and being accountable,” Thomas said.

Growing up in a small rural community along the Mississippi River in Arkansas, Thomas didn’t arrive in Utah until 1996. Intending to stay only for the summer, she decided to make the move permanent after meeting her husband, Kem. They have two adult children and a grand dog.

Thomas began her career with a love of learning—a passion she still enjoys— which is not surprising considering her impressive educational background. With two bachelor's degrees in economics and social science and two master’s degrees in gerontology and public administration, she has consistently pushed herself to earn distinction in a playing field generally dominated by men.

Faced with challenges from her first purposeful steps onto a career path, Thomas has refused to accept limitations for over 20 years.

“Early on in my career, it was balancing being a wife and mother and working more than 40 hours per week,” she said. “I was also attending graduate school during some of that time. It took a lot of perseverance and support from those around me to make sure the children were fed and where they needed to be so I could be present and focused.”

Though she loves her job, local government wasn’t her original goal when she began her studies as an undergraduate. However, fortuitous circumstances led her to where she is now.

“It was a lot of falling forward and seizing opportunities as they presented themselves,” she said. “One of my electives during my undergraduate studies was in the Gerontology Department, which led me to an interest in Aging Services Administration, which led to an MS in Gerontology, which led me to my first job in local government managing the Community Center and Senior Citizen Programs in South Jordan.” She spent nearly eight years working for the City of South Jordan.

Presenting an unprecedented challenge, the pandemic threw a wrench into everyone’s plans and daily operations, and it was no different for Herriman.

“The pandemic changed so much for the city. Day to day, we had to pivot our response depending on what was happening at the federal, state and county levels. It impacted every aspect of daily life,” Thomas said.

She and other city officials scrambled to adapt how they fulfilled responsibilities, met the needs of residents and communicated. “Public trust evaporated,” she said.

Thomas and other staff found creative ways to keep the city functioning, even hosting the first in-person pandemic event within Salt Lake County in July 2020. “[It was called] Xtreme Bulls, with a limited crowd and a lot of health regulations. It was amazing to be with people!” Thomas said.

Later in 2020, an unexpected management change thrust Thomas into the position of interim city manager overnight. She suddenly found herself responsible for all city operations, a huge undertaking she would tackle for the next eight months. “I am grateful for our amazing staff, who stepped up and helped me navigate through that time,” she said.

Though her stint as the city manager was instructive and helped shape how she approaches challenges today, she is grateful for many aspects of her current job. She particularly enjoys the community camaraderie and respect on display during city events.

“It is incredibly fulfilling to see the community come together at Fort Herriman Towne Days or to see people enjoying all the activities at the Herriman Howl,” she said. “I love the respect that is shown at our Memorial Day Ceremony and Wreaths Across America.”

Thomas has now worked for Herriman City for almost eight years and enjoys seeing the completion of city projects, including roads, parks or even water tanks.

“I love seeing people enjoying our trails and playing in our parks. I love seeing new businesses opening and meeting new residents,” she said.

Thomas—and the city in general— face daily challenges. Limited resources, budget constraints, regulatory considerations and legal issues—all while examining the impact on residents—make solving complex city problems difficult at best.

Providing unique perspectives gained through experiences as a woman, mother, student and leader, she continues to pursue the realization of the city council’s vision for Herriman.

This vision includes strengthening financial stability and increasing revenue, improving public trust and transparency,

encouraging community engagement, expanding trails for increased outdoor recreation and health and increasing transportation and service efficiency via technology.

She takes pride in her efforts to do what is best for the city, though, of course, she is always proud of her children first.

“In my career, I think I’ve been a good person who works hard, takes responsibility, and tries to do the right thing, even though that can come through difficult choices,” she said.

Though every city makes mistakes that can negatively impact residents,

Thomas is especially optimistic about Herriman’s future.

“Incredible people make up the Herriman City Staff and City Council,” she said. “They are people who truly care about this community and its long-term sustainability.”

To make a difference in local government, particularly for women, Thomas advises proactivity. “Believe in yourself and your abilities. Speak up, even when you are the only woman in the room. Trust your expertise. Embrace resilience—learn from mistakes and move forward,” she said. “And be kind.”

Wendy Thomas has worked hard for over two decades to better herself and her city.

Wendy Thomas greets residents at a city event at Butterfield Park in 2019. (Courtesy Herriman City)

On a brisk day in November 2022, Wendy Thomas participates in the ribbon-cutting for the Juniper Canyon East Trailhead. (Courtesy Herriman City)

Alta high senior conquers 50-miler, proving ‘you can do hard things’

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Eighteen-year-old Ruby Lewis inspires others while proving to herself there are no limits.

In late January, 18-year-old Ruby Lewis embarked on a 50-mile race through the snow-dusted La Sal Mountains, taking in stunning views of Arches National Park and running past ancient dinosaur tracks embedded in red rock.

After a grueling journey, Lewis crossed the finish line of the Arches Ultra in 11:35:46, securing third place in the under-20 age group. She was the youngest runner of 73 competitors.

“I was running the whole day,” Lewis said. “It was hard being out there and realizing, I still had miles to go. I was running by myself for a good chunk of it, so I had to find motivation to keep running. My goal was to get under 12 hours and be able to finish. I wasn’t sure I’d be able to do it – and once I did, it changed my perspective on what I can do. It’s an amazing feeling knowing I accomplished it.”

The Alta High varsity cross country and track runner said she found motivation from her dad, a seasoned long-distance runner who supported her at four aid stations along the way.

Additionally, she found inspiration in a bracelet she wore throughout the race. The bracelet, made with teammates, carried the message “PTW,” which stands for “Prove Them Wrong.”

“We created the PTW club to remind ourselves we’re capable of doing hard things, and to prove to anyone who doubts us—even ourselves sometimes—wrong. It’s a way to unite and support each other, whether we’re running or facing challenges in life,” Lewis explained.

The PTW group operates informally, with members often joining each other for runs or supporting one another’s workouts on Strava.

“We love making comments on each other’s runs, offering encouragement and helping each other stay positive,” she said. “It’s all about creating a supportive and unified community. We want to spread positivity and make a difference.”

Ruby drew from this motivation during her 50-mile race.

Starting the race at 6:30 a.m. in 19-degree weather, she wore a headlamp and carried a backpack filled with snacks, salts and energy bars. The temperature eventually climbed to the mid-40s before dipping again. As the race wore on and the field of runners began to thin out, there were times when she wanted to stop and walk, but she pushed herself forward, knowing her teammates were cheering her on from afar.

“Sometimes you can be your worst

enemy. So, if you can get past your own self-doubt, then you can do a lot more,” she said. “You have to trust yourself and believe you can accomplish hard things. I think it showed to my teammates that, they, too, can achieve what they set their minds to—not just in running, but in life.”

Lewis began preparing for the race after the Alta High Hawks finished in the top 20 at the state cross country meet. She followed a rigorous training schedule, created with the help of her father.

“Dedication is key. I put in long training runs. Training three months for one race seems like a lot, but if I hadn’t done that, I wouldn’t have been able to finish. It taught me you need to put in the effort for the outcome and in the end, it’s worth it,” she said.

Additionally, she gradually built up her long distance racing endurance, completing a half-marathon in October 2023 and running a 50K in January 2024, where she finished fifth in the under-20 age group.

The distance runner also is captain of Alta High’s 120-member mountain biking club.

“Mountain biking is a hard sport, too. You need to put in the work. So again, you need to prove to yourself you have the strength to do it,” she said.

In addition to her athletic accomplishments, Lewis is actively involved in her community. As a member of the National Honor Society, she and her teammates have volunteered with programs such as Sub for Santa and helped prepare meals for The Road Home shelter.

“We’re all about working hard and showing kindness,” she said. “My dream job is to become an international social worker. I want to help as many people as I can.”

A senior with a 4.0 GPA, Lewis is considering Southern Utah University for her college education, and she still has shortand long-term athletic goals.

This spring, before graduation, she wants to shave off a few seconds on both her 800-meter and mile track times. Looking ahead, she may run the Arches Ultra again before racing the Wasatch 100.

“My experiences have taught me challenges are worth facing, and I want others to feel that same sense of achievement and pride in themselves,” she said. “My dad inspired me to pursue longer distance races. They’re tough, but having that feeling of accomplishment when they’re over, makes it worth the hard work.”

Alta High’s 18-year-old Ruby Lewis smiles before proving to herself that she could race the Arches Ultra 50-miler in January. (Photo courtesy of Ruby Lewis)

Alta High mountain bike club captain Ruby Lewis, with her PTW bracelet on her wrist, races at region. (Photo courtesy of Ruby Lewis)

Artist and heart attack survivor helps raise awareness of heart disease in women

By Jolene Croasmun | j.croasmun@mycityjournals.com

Go Red for Women Day was kicked off at Intermountain Medical Center with cardiologists bringing awareness to women’s No. 1 killer which is heart disease and an unveiling of the artwork from a female heart attack survivor.

February was heart health month and the first Friday of the month was Go Red for Women Day. Intermountain Health held an event and unveiled a heart attack survivor’s artwork to raise awareness about heart disease in women which claims the lives of more women annually than all cancers combined.

Dr. Amanda Donohue, a cardiologist with Intermountain Health said, “We partnered with the American Heart Association to get the word out about Go Red for Women Day. Our main goal is to create awareness around the cardiovascular risk that all women face. One in three women will pass away from a cardiovascular complication this year.”

Donohue talked about modifiable risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Go Red for Women Day is being used to “shed some light on the lesser known ones like autoimmune disorders, chronic kidney disease, gestational disorders of pregnancy and long-term use of hormone replacement therapy,” Donohue said.

“We want to empower women to take charge of their cardiovascular health. It is important at any age and any stage in life,” added Donohue.

Kimberleigh Collins-Peynaud is an artist and heart attack survivor and her artwork was on display at Intermountain Medical Center. She found comfort and healing through painting after her heart attack and hopes it will help others.

“I had a heart attack in November of 2023. A widowmaker heart attack and that means the left interior descending artery was 90% blocked,” Collins-Peynaud said. “The American Heart Association says that only 12% of widowmaker heart attack survivors survive outside of the hospital.”

Collins-Peynaud was 44, in good health and exercised regularly when she had her heart attack. Her family did have some history of heart disease. “When you feel healthy and relatively young and haven’t been warned of any risks, it just comes out of nowhere. I was walking around with a blocked artery and didn’t even know it.”

“I woke up on Saturday morning, went up for breakfast and my left arm started hurting to the bone and felt like there was pain radiating out of it. I tried to massage it like it was a cramp but that did nothing. That’s when I started thinking, ‘oh this is unfamiliar, this is weird’ and I told my husband I needed

Heart attack survivor Kimberleigh Collins-Peynaud holds a stent that is similar to the one that was placed in her artery after her heart attack. (Jolene Croasmun/City Journals)

to go lay down on the bed and as soon as I

This painting is a combination of the images of Kimberleigh Collins-Peynaud’s blocked arteries and her image in her mind of her heart attack. It is titled “My Widowmaker.” (Jolene Croasmun/City Journals)

did that my whole back felt exactly like the left arm,” Collins-Peynaud said.

“The final symptom felt like someone standing on my sternum and that lasted about 15 minutes and I Googled the symptoms, and I thought there is no way that I am having a heart attack and it appeared on my screen that those are typical symptoms of a heart attack. But I decided that if it happens again I will call the doctor,” Collins-Peynaud added.

Collins-Peynaud tried yoga but things

“Still Healing” is one of three paintings in a series that artist Kimberleigh Collins-Peynaud painted after her heart attack that has helped her process and understand the changes going on inside of her body (Jolene Croasmun/City Journals)

did not improve and by 5 p.m. that day she decided to go to Instacare. “They took an EKG and immediately sent me to the hospital by ambulance," Collins-Peynaud said. “I was scared.”

For Collins-Peynaud art helped her heal. “I used art to get better. I needed a way to process the shock of what happened to deal with death and why I was lucky to survive.”

Speaking about her gouache painting called “Why,” Collins-Peynaud explained, “The 12% for example is just a number but I needed to see what that looks like. What does 12% of the population surviving look like?” Only 12% of widowmaker heart attack victims survive.

“There is one drawing which is a pencil drawing of the three symptoms. First my left arm, then my whole back, then the pain on my sternum. I felt that would be very helpful to add to the series because it is a way to connect to other women and people to show that here are three images of what it felt like. So if you feel like this you’ll know to go act faster than I did. Or if a friend or family member says, ‘I have this pain, and I don’t understand it’ hopefully it will get someone to react and say, ‘I saw this image, you should go get this checked out,’” Collins-Peynaud said.

“My symptoms are typical of men’s symptoms. We are all different and they can vary. The more the public can see how different it can be the better it is,” said Collins-Peynaud.

“I created the series called ‘Heartwork’

and the prints are for sale through my website, www.heartwork-art.weebly.com. I will donate a portion of the proceeds to the foundation for the beginning of this women’s heart center,” Collins-Peynaud said. “I have been working with the team here at Intermountain to help get out the word of women’s heart health.”

Dr. Kent Meredith, a cardiologist with Intermountain Health spoke at the event. “We have learned that when women have a heart attack it is often completely different. It is very common in women to experience a totally different set of symptoms.”

“It is not a pain or pressure but it’s more like burning or discomfort. Some female patients will say, ‘I don’t feel well or I feel weak, tired or have an upset stomach.’ I have heard that 1,000 times in my 25 years of cardiology,” Meredith said and added that many patients think they have stomach flu.

“We consider any symptom between the nose and navel as being a potential heart attack symptom especially in women," Meredith added. “We encourage you to learn and share with the women in your life.”

Collins-Peynaud’s life was saved by the cardiologists at Intermountain Medical Center and she had a stent placed in her arteries. She now makes the most of each day. “Do something that makes you feel good for yourself. Do something useful,” Collins-Peynaud said. She hopes that her artwork will help others recognize the symptoms of a heart attack and possibly save a life.

Mayor touts Cottonwood Heights as city that ‘reflects the best of Utah’

Mayor Mike Weichers presented the State of the City address with former Mayors Kelvyn Cullimore and Mike Peterson.

By Cassie Goff c.goff@mycityjournals.com

Continuing coverage of Cottonwood Heights 20-year anniversary/birthday celebrations, Mayor Mike Weichers invited residents to honor the city’s history throughout this year and play a part in shaping the future for the residential community.

“We remain committed to finding new and better ways to engage with our residents and those we serve,” Weichers said. “We will…actively explore best practices to ensure effective communication and meaningful feedback from our community as it continues to improve.”

Weichers mentioned the city council and staff’s reestablished commitment to enhancing communication to residents through daily updates on social media, email notifications and the monthly newsletter (attached to the City Journal).

“Through the years, we’ve built a city that, I believe, reflects the best of Utah. We’ve established vital services, fostered economic vitality, and nurtured a strong sense of identity,” Weichers said.

Looking forward, the city council will be focusing on their established goals of: continuing to create a sense of community; improving community services; strengthening all forms of public safety; building partnerships to attract business; and improving infrastructure.

In line with these goals, 183 new business licenses were issued in 2024. With the already existing 860 building permits, 1,422 active businesses have their homebase in Cottonwood Heights.

Developing the anticipated Hillside Plaza will likely bring more businesses into the city as well. Weichers is excited to begin drafting a contract agreement with a potential development partner to transform the area.

“With you, I look forward to enjoying the opportunities and experiences this vibrant new space will offer,” Weichers said. “We believe that this redevelopment will serve as a catalyst for revitalization of a much larger area….”

Weichers not only invited residents to participate in the city’s activities this year but also highlighted important events from the city’s history during his State of the City Address Jan. 15. He invited former Mayor Mike Peterson and former Mayor Kelvyn Cullimore to help him portray the importance and impact of a few of these influential events.

“Neighbors for Cottonwood Heights (a nonprofit cooperation for the purpose of exploring the feasibility of incorporating Cottonwood Heights as its own city) recognized immediate action was required to prevent existing cities from furthering annexing the commercial tax base…and preserve the uniqueness of the community,” Cullimore said.

“Think about that original community council who loved the city. It was those people who planted the seed. It was Mayor Cullimore who took it to the residents making it all happen,” Peterson said.

In 2004, 85% of the community voted to incorporate Cottonwood Heights into its own city. From the actions of Neighbors for Cottonwood Heights, the city was formerly incorporated in 2005.

“At the time, billboards were a big deal,” Cullimore said. “Not much has changed.”

In 2008, Cullimore and Cottonwood Heights Police Chief Robby Russo departed from Salt Lake County’s policing services to form a city-specific police department.

“We understand the priority our residents place on safety and security and the CHPD remains dedicated to serving with this focus in mind,” Weichers said. “The community autism outreach program… continues to lead the state as an exemplary program designed to enhance understanding within this community.”

In 2016, the city council (at the time) made the decision to end a public works services contract in order to bring services in-house.

Various volunteer and resident-lead committees and councils have formed throughout the last 20 years. Weichers recognized the impacts of the contributions from the Arts Council, Historic Committee, Youth City Council, and Parks, Trails and Open Space Committee.

“Early visions for open space and trail networks have come to life, with the leadership of (Peterson), building a vision we continue to enhance and implement today….” Weichers said.

Marking a significant change in the community network supporting Cottonwood Heights, City Manager Jared Gerber and Director of Records, Culture and Human Resources Barbara Higgins will be spending their first year employed with the city celebrating this 20-year benchmark.

In coordination with the State of the City Address, a 20th Anniversary video for the city was created and published on YouTube. To view the video, visit the Cottonwood Heights channel on YouTube and search: “Cottonwood Heights 20th Anniversary.” l

Mayor Weichers expressed his gratitude for his fellow councilmembers and their continued collaboration during his State of the City address. (Photo courtesy of Cottonwood Heights)

A brief history of bringing the Cottonwood Heights Police Department in-house almost twenty years ago was shared during the State of the City Address. The Cottonwood Heights Public Works Department’s recent accomplishments were also highlighted. (Photo courtesy of Cottonwood Heights)

Cottonwood Heights musical production wins Best Costume award

The enchanting elegance of the ‘Beauty and the Beast’ costumes gave Lauri Baird an award nod

By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com

WhenCottonwood Heights decided to perform Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” last summer, detractors thought they wouldn’t be able to pull it off. They worried that the big production was too much for an organization of its size to take on.

But when the 2024 BroadwayWorld Salt Lake City Awards announced the nominees for regional productions and touring shows, the Cottonwood Heights production received 15 nominations. It won for Best Costume Design, with the award going to designer Lauri Baird.

“Lauri wasn’t just the costume designer,” said Kate Hoflich, Cottonwood Heights culture coordinator. “She was the overall design manager for the whole show. So she coordinated the entire vision from the lighting and the set, and, of course, the costumes and the wigs and the whole aesthetic.”

Along with Best Costume Design, the production was nominated for Best Musical, Best Direction of a Musical (Brighton Sloan), Best Scenic Design of a Play or Musical (Cottonwood Heights resident Bill Fox), Best Choreography (Heather Sessions Gaillard), Best

Music Direction and Orchestra Performance (Robert “BJ” Bedont), Best Performer in a Musical (Summer Sloan Alvey as “Belle”), Best Performer in a Musical (Zac Freeman as “Beast”), Best Performer in a Musical (Garrett Stephens as “Gaston”), Best Performer in a Musical (Cottonwood Heights resident Jin-Xiang Yu as “Mrs. Potts”), Best Supporting Performer in a Musical (James Carter as “Lumiere”), Best Supporting Performer in a Musical (Spencer Mack as “Le Fou”), Best Supporting Performer in a Musical (Benzley Packard as “Silly Girl”), Best Ensemble and Favorite Local Theatre.

“I think that our production team made it stand out. We kind of assembled a dream team,” Hoflich said. “I think that having the director and overall designer work so closely together, and they’ve been working together for a long time, that they brought in people they knew would work well with each other. I think it was all about the team that we assembled.”

“Beauty and the Beast” was performed at Butler Middle School (7530 S. 2700 East) in July 2024. Hoflich said audiences loved the scope of the production with its many costume changes, dance numbers and big chorus.

“Just the volume of costumes alone was intense. I think we had eight costume racks just stuffed with costumes,” she said. “I think we had 40 wigs and the wigs were no joke. One of the wigs was the wig that Madame de la

costumes for the Cottonwood Heights production of “Beauty and the Beast,” performed in July 2024. (Photos courtesy of Brighton Sloan Photography)

Grande Bouche wore. It had a compartment that opened like a jewelry box that she could pull things out of.”

Lauri Baird will be back this summer as the director of Cottonwood Heights’ 15th musical production. “The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical” is based on the be-

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loved series and is a relatively new show that Hoflich thinks audiences will love.

“We’re really proud of Lauri and with the next musical, we’re hoping to bring back that high-level production value. The Arts Council is ready to roll. It’s such a labor of love for everyone involved.” l

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Lauri Baird won the award for Best Costume Design from the 2024 BroadwayWorld Salt Lake City Awards. She created

More than the game: Insights into professional sports from industry insiders

Carra McManamon, who also is a sideline reporter for ESPN, shared insight in their careers to Brighton High students.

Cottonwood Heights rings in the Year of the Snake

Photos by Cassie Goff

By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Two out of 100 high school athletes will play collegiate sports at some level and less than one will receive a scholarship to a NCAA Division I college or university. Despite those findings by the Georgia Career Information Center, 59% of high school football and basketball players still believe they will get a college scholarship.

And only one in 16,000 high school student-athletes attains a professional athletic career.

However, there are many opportunities working in sports professionally which may appeal to students and, in January, Salt Lake Bees play-by-play radio broadcaster Tony Parks and Bees community relations director

“Tony shared his journey in sports broadcasting, emphasizing hard work and passion, while Carra encouraged students to embrace opportunities and turn dreams into reality,” said Eileen Kasteler, Brighton High work-based learning coordinator.

The two speakers were part of the quarterly Meet the Pros series at Brighton High.

Canyons School District Career and Technical Education Director Janet Goble said the Meet the Pros series is designed to give students a chance to widen their perspectives about professions.

“Students are able to ask questions to industry professionals to deepen their understanding of the careers,” she said.

The series is part of the work-based learning program, which gives students the opportunity to see how classroom instruction connects to careers through various career awareness activities. l

Salt Lake Bees play-by-play radio broadcaster Tony Parks and Bees community relations director Carra McManamon, who also is a sideline reporter for ESPN, spoke to Brighton High students about careers in sports. (Eileen Kasteler/Brighton High)

Residents gathered from 10 a.m. until noon to learn more about the Chinese New Year holiday and traditions.

The Year of the Snake was rung in during the Chinese New Year Celebration on Jan. 25.

Audience members gasped at the kung fu and tai chi demonstrations during the Cottonwood Heights Chinese New Year Celebration.

Residents were encouraged to enjoy beautiful art exhibits while enjoying the Chinese New Year Celebration events.

The Cottonwood Heights Arts Council presents a free, educational and entertaining family event celebrating Chinese culture through art, music, and martial arts.

Wang Zhengmin performed “Spring in Ordos” during his flute solo.

Emergency Preparedness Training focuses on safety while travelings

Strive to be healthy, intelligent and calm while walking around and traveling.

By Cassie Goff c.goff@mycityjournals.com

“Never be fat, dumb and happy walking around and traveling – anywhere you go,” said Cottonwood Heights Police Department (CHPD) Assistant Chief Paul Brenneman.

Practicing situational awareness skills and other recommendations for travel were explored during an open Emergency Preparedness While Traveling Training Feb. 13. The topics focused on how to plan for emergency situations while traveling. This idea came in from resident Debbie McIntosh after attending a handful of similar Emergency Preparedness Trainings over the years and realized she had accumulated knowledge on how to respond to emergencies at home, but not when traveling.

“You can’t mitigate in the middle of an emergency – you react to the emergency,” Brenneman said. “Get the plans in place so you don’t have to deal with it in an emergency situation.”

Together with CHPD officer Lance Bess, Brenneman walked residents through ideas for preparing those plans before travel. They started the conversation by detailing how to handle medical needs and health insurance while traveling.

“You’re talking a quarter of a million dollars to get you back to the U.S. from the middle of the (Mediterranean) islands,” Bess said.

Their overall recommendation was to begin by checking with your current health insurance provider to see what they’re willing to cover out of the country. If it’s insufficient, then look into buying travel insurance.

Before traveling, Bess recommended planning for communications. Phone providers will often have options for international plans. If local plans aren’t switched over to international plans, travelers can rack up extensive charges from phone companies.

Brenneman added to the recommendation of preparing communications before travel: pack back-up power banks in case outlets aren’t readily available to charge mobile devices and utilize online cloud storage to back up existing information and data.

Primary information that should exist outside of mobile devices includes important contact lists. Options for storing primary contact information include: backing up your contact list onto secure cloud storage; emailing your contact list to yourself and creating an “important numbers” folder within your email; creating a wallet-sized card to laminate.

“When a smart phone is a dumb phone –you can still bring up the contact information and see the picture(s),” Brennaman said.

In addition to printing a physical hard copy of primary contacts, travelers should create a hard copy of their passport before traveling. Brenneman recounted how difficult getting passports reissued can be without those hard copies.

Putting on an investigative hat, Brenneman and Bess explained how “intelligence gathering” is crucial before traveling to an unknown area. They suggested researching the hotels (or other accommodation stays) beforehand to ensure quality and safety. Double check the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) through the U.S. Department of State for travel warnings and weather.gov for weather advisories.

When traveling to other countries, consider who will and will not accept U.S. monies and cash apps. In addition, research how to make emergency calls and what the 911 equivalent is (112 in Europe).

“Be aware of the resources available to you. Evaluate strategically and tactfully,” Brenneman said. “You can’t do that if you’re not collecting information.”

Bess and Brenneman recommend thinking like a criminal before leaving for big travel dates. Homes that are unattended overnight may be at risk for break-ins and burglaries. To avoid calling attention to an unattended home, there are a few precautionary measures that can be taken.

“Amazon boxes piling up are notifying porch pirates that you’re gone,” Brenneman said.

He recommended either: asking a trusted friend or neighbor to take in the mail/deliveries daily or calling the postal service to cancel the mail for the time period of travel. Bess added incorporating people into the “circle of trust.” Select a few trusted friends or family members to share itineraries with so they know when the departure and arrival times are. Bess also recommended establishing a safe word with these people in case your identity needs to be verified in an emergency situation.

While traveling, Bess encouraged practicing restraint posting on social media. He asked what is being communicated while he’s posting photos of him and his family having a good time on vacation with regularity.

“I just notified the entire world that I’m gone,” Bess said.

Brenneman wrapped up the Emergency Preparedness While Traveling training by circling back to situational awareness. He asked all residents to always be practicing situational awareness skills through constant investigation and mental rehearsal. l

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Unified basketball provides pathway for athletes of all abilities

Local inclusive basketball tournament emphasizes compassion, competition and community.

By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

After a parade of student-athletes from Canyons, Jordan and Murray school districts, First Lady Abby Cox took center court.

“I’m so excited for all the work you’ve put in to be here that each one of you here is making a difference in each other’s lives,” she said. “Anybody who is experiencing unified sports is experiencing something that is powerful, that is changing our lives. It’s changing our communities and changing our schools. It’s changing the world because we truly see each other as human beings. When we truly look at each other with eyes of another human and understand each other’s hearts, we do change the world. You’re going to change everything. You’re going to make the world better because of who you are, because of the friendships you’re making right now.”

However, Cox wasn’t speaking to just any high school athletes.

These were players on unified basketball teams, where students with and without intellectual disabilities play side by side. The program, which has seen tremendous growth, now boasts more than 200 high school coed unified basketball teams. School districts have supported the growth of tournaments, expanding opportunities for students to compete.

This tournament, which featured two competitive games taking place on one of three courts, was held at Corner Canyon High in Draper.

Sophomore Isaac Reed played point guard for Herriman High’s team. He played unified basketball for Mountain Creek Middle School last year.

“There are more people here watching us in high school than in middle school,” he said. “I love basketball. I enjoy passing because it helps my team and gives everyone a chance to score. It’s important to show respect after the game by saying ‘good game.’”

His dad, Dub, was on the sidelines, cheering on Isaac and his teammates.

“When I was in high school in the ’90s, there were no programs like this,” he said. “They put these kids in a classroom in the corner of the school, and we never saw them. Now they’re part of everything, and it’s the way it should be. These kids are just as competitive, and this means the world to them to be able to be seen and heard.”

Isaac, who had a stroke at birth and didn’t get diagnosed until he was six months old, is enamored with basketball, watching and recording every NBA game and memorizing stats.

“He watches every NBA game and memorizes the stats,” his dad said. “These unified programs have given him and other kids a sense of community. His peer tutors give him high-fives in the hallways. At a special needs football game, when Isaac scored a touchdown, the Herriman football team gathered around to congratulate him. That kindness means the world to him and to all these kids.”

The core of unified sports is simple: training and playing together fosters friendships and understanding, said Boston Iacobazzi, Special Olympics Utah’s college-growth coordinator for unified champion schools.

Brighton sophomore Adelaide Hoffman was on another court, getting ready to play.

“Jared (Denslow, special education teacher) taught me how to play basketball,” she said. “I’m excited; this is my first time playing.”

Devin Ambrossi, a junior and peer tutor at Brighton, said unified sports are meaningful.

“Unified sports is great because everyone gets a chance to participate, and it’s a safe space for everyone,” he said. “It’s where people can be themselves and learn new things. I’ve learned a lot about patience and kindness, and it’s made me a better person.”

Many players also credit their special education teachers and peers for teaching them the game of basketball.

West Jordan senior Spencer Nielsen attributes his skills to his coach’s instruction, but he also praises one of his teammates.

“Robert is the best player on our team,” he said. “The best part is just being on the team with all my friends.”

Senior Riley Warner plays alongside Nielsen and other players on West Jordan’s team.

“I like to help out and make everyone be included,” he said. “It’s important to treat everyone fairly. I’m blessed with opportunities, so I want to give back. It’s great to see my teammates excited and pushing themselves. They’re competitive, and I know we’ll do well—hopefully win a state championship.”

Herriman High sophomore Kayla Grant also wants to play for a state title.

“I learned to play basketball on the team and it’s fun to dribble and pass to my friends,” she said. “And I love to see my friends who are playing on other teams.”

Alta senior Joaquin Munoz also appreciates forming friendships through the program.

“We have a lot of fun and it makes me happy seeing them happy,” he said. “It’s great we’re getting to make new friends on teams from a lot of different schools.”

Even though Munoz plays hockey and is on the dance team, he also played unified soccer in the fall as did Alta sophomore Riley Dover.

“I like playing unified sports because I’m exercising and it’s healthy,” he said. “The best part is being with my team.”

Mountain Ridge junior Colton Richards was making friends on his team and on opposing teams.

“I love my coach and my team,” he said. “We’re all having fun, making new friends from other schools and playing basketball together.”

Corner Canyon High senior Jordan Barlow appreciated the opportunity to play on his school’s team.

“I didn’t get to play on a team before this one; I used to just play at my house,” he said. “This team is fun because we include everyone. I like to pass the ball.”

His coach, Kelsie Wilson, praised Barlow’s team spirit.

“He passes it so everyone on the team has an opportunity to make a shot,” she said.

Corner Canyon junior Jackson “Blondie” Kennedy, who said he isn’t a basketball player himself, values the inclusivity of the team.

“I’m learning alongside them,” said the peer tutor. “We want to make sure everyone has an opportunity to play. We pass, we shoot, do a lot of fundamentals, but we’re here to make everyone feel welcome, cheer everyone and have a good time.”

Bingham High Principal Rodney Shaw appreciates the impact of unified sports on his students.

“We want all our students to feel connected to the school, and being part of a team is a great way to do that,” he said. “Unified sports have grown so much. For these kids, the emphasis is not about winning or losing; it’s about belonging and being part of the community. The wins and losses are fun, but

these kids want to be here, be on the team, and participate.”

This inclusive approach has fostered stronger bonds between students at his school.

“These kids are socializing with other students, eating lunch together, attending activities, and coming to basketball games,” Shaw said. “They get tons of support from the student body.”

Unified teams from the three school districts will compete in the regional tournament the week of March 10, with the state unified basketball tournament set for March 26 at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City. l

Herriman High’s Issac Reed jumps to defend a pass by Brighton’s Mitch Burt during the Canyons-Jordan-Murray school districts’ unified tournament. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Brighton players celebrate a basket during the Canyons-Jordan-Murray school districts’ unified tournament. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

We often talk about infamous warriors like Harriet Tubman, Susan B. Anthony, Amelia Earhart, and justice OG Ruth Bader Ginsburg, but so many women have left their mark on this world without acclaim, awards or national days.

President Trump’s executive order mandates a pause on federal events promoting diversity, including Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Pride Month and Holocaust Remembrance Day. But I’m not a federal employee and refuse to follow his directive. Happy Women’s History Month!

Throughout the ages, women are described as the gentler sex, the homemakers and the caretakers. And, yes, women are given those roles. But women are also fierce queens, savage muses, legendary goddesses and wild forces of nature.

We often talk about infamous warriors like Harriet Tubman, Susan B. Anthony and Supreme Court Justice (and original-gangster) Ruth Bader Ginsburg, but so many women have left their mark on this world without acclaim, awards or national days.

Women like Mrs. Strange who made storytime at the Murray Library a magical experience. Her rendition of “The Three Billy Goats Gruff” was an Oscar-worthy perfor-

Peri Kinder Life and Laughter

A Woman’s Work

mance. When the biggest billy goat knocked the mean, ugly troll off the bridge, we all cheered in triumph.

Or women like Frankie Whipple, my long-suffering, patient, eternally-frustrated piano teacher. She listened to my musical scales, arpeggios and recital pieces without visibly wincing. Usually. The only annoyance she displayed was when I didn’t do my music theory lesson for five years straight.

Mrs. Lambert taught my second grade class at Viewmont Elementary. Under her guidance, I went from reading to show off to reading for pleasure. She taught me poetry, art and a life-lesson about friendship. Plus, she wore hip,‘70s polyester pantsuits that looked amazing.

Grandma Brickey was a fearless powerhouse. She loved her grandkids without judgement and let us eat all her chocolate raisin cake. Widowed for decades, she had many boyfriends but refused to give up her independence. She was a dancing queen, a

vivacious flirt and a woman who lived life on her own terms.

When I was 12-years-old, a neighbor lady trusted me to watch her children all summer. Thanks to her, I quickly learned I was a terrible babysitter and should probably never have children.

Women like Ms. Pettis, my ninth-grade English teacher at Riverview Junior High, taught me that even when I thought my life was over, I was valuable to her. She showed up at my home every week to make sure I stayed on top of my assignments and she encouraged my writing. She is a hero.

My Aunt Judy created a safe place for 8-year-old me when I ran away from home because Mom was censoring the books I read. She didn’t think “Jaws” was an acceptable summer read for a third-grader but Aunt Judy let me stay the night until I calmed down. Then I read “Jaws” in secret.

Renee Smith was my dance instructor for eight years. She taught me tap, jazz and ballet, and encouraged me to try out for “The Nutcracker”. But because I wasn’t actually coordinated, I never landed a part. She always believed I would. At least she said she did.

Mom was an unrivaled teacher, encouraging me to read (except “Jaws”), write poetry, make music, dance, ride bikes, play basketball and try new things. It wasn’t her

fault I didn’t see her value until I became a mom.

My daughters, my granddaughters, my sisters, my nieces, my cousins, my aunts, my grandmothers, my friends, my colleagues, my teachers: all these women have made me what I am today. Yes, it’s their fault.

Even when the president (and Google) removes Women’s History Month from the calendar, women will do what we’ve always done: help other women to be powerful, to find their voice, to live their passion, to stand up for what’s right, to lead and to shine brighter than ever. Don’t mistake our gentle demeanor for passivity.