Montgomery’s artwork is inspired by the people around her. The result is a winning piece in the Davis School District Art Show at the Bountiful Davis Arts Center (BDAC). The Woods Cross High School senior placed third out of more than 600 submissions from 361 students 6-12th grade.
“God Gave Us Flowers,” is a portrait of her sister. “I’m the oldest of three sisters,” said Montgomery. “The flowers represent roses and thorns. We’re together through the good and the bad.”
Her other piece, “Not of a Feather” is a circle of different birds. “The birds represent me and my sisters,” she said. “We’re different but will love each other forever. I like to dig deep for the meaning behind it.”
Montgomery said she has always had a love of art. “My papa (grandpa) is an artist and my mom has always done crafts. I had a little sketch book. I took art classes in junior high. I’m in an AP art class. I like to explore different
mediums.”
This is the first time she has had artwork at the BDAC. “It surprised me to have two pieces accepted,” said Montgomery. “It was so cool to see them framed. I felt very professional. They look so much bigger framed.”
She is headed to Utah State University in the fall. “I want to get a bachelor’s in fine art. I want to be an art teacher. I’ve always wanted to be an art teacher since junior high. This is where life has taken me.”
Rylie Kimball uses her art as a way of healing. “I was diagnosed with cancer,” she said. “I lost my hair. I did my art while I was going through chemo. Now there’s no sign of it. I’m cancer free.”
One of her paintings is of a carefree young woman in Italy. “It’s a self portrait,” said Kimball. “I’ve always loved art but I didn’t take it seriously until about four years ago. I’ve been selling art at the Bountiful Farmers Market since I was eight years old.”
Her other painting is a field of colorful
Zerthun Mekuria from Layton High won Best of Show with her painting “Untamed Joy.” Mekuria was also named Junior Artist in Residence at the BDAC. Photo by Becky Ginos
DHS robotics team headed to World VEX Competition
KAYSVILLE—The team won the state championship in March, making it the 13th consecutive win for the school.
By Becky Ginos becky.g@thecityjournals.com
Some very dedicated kids at Davis High School have put hours and hours into robotics and are now headed to the World VEX Competition. The robotics team won the state championship on March 8, making it the 13th consecutive state championship for the school.
“Our secret sauce with 32 kids in my club is that I can't do everything,” said CTE teacher and coach, Dan Leifson who started the program 14 years ago. “The magic is students have to figure it out and learn from other students. It’s a revolving door. I kind of think of it as the dynasty aspect. They have 14 years of giants’ shoulders they can stand on.”
In order to compete, the club has to build and program a robot that can complete certain tasks to get points during the competition.
“The average time spent is 20-30 hours planning and building the robot to get it to the point of programming,” said team member and senior, Andrew Gagner. “Then it takes another 10 hours to program it to a rudimentary level then we go back and make fixes. We spend endless time practicing and writing the perfect code. Outside of a competition it’s about 50-70 hours on average for a robot.”
Gagner said his team has gotten very close. “Two weeks before the state championship we practice and prepare and build up to become state champions. At the actual event we’re paired with a random team.
You don’t know who you’re going to get with. Then there are seven matches spread out over about five hours.”
The team that is ranked number one overall gets to pick who they want to bring into the finals with them, he said. “Then teams are placed into brackets and to win in the grand finals it’s best out of three. There’s not a lot of time in between. Your motor can get hot very quickly and you have to find a way to cool it down.”
The world championship is the largest competition, said senior Ellie Abel. “Teams come from all over the world, Europe, Asia, etc. It’s fun to meet people from all over. You’re paired with random teams so that fosters teamwork and there's camaraderie even though we have different languages.”
It’s a lively atmosphere, she said. “Teams meet and become good friends among strangers because you all love the same thing. It builds a strong VEX community.”
Leifson has been teaching at Davis High for 14 years. “In my first few weeks into teaching a student came into my office and asked for my help starting a robotic/
automation club,” he said. “That started it.”
In a few months they went to a competition, he said. “The kids caught fire. We’ve had success and heartbreak. Once we saw a world championship my kids were hooked.”
In 2011-2012, the team qualified for the championship. “We did terrible,” said Leifson. “We were not prepared so we got trounced. The lessons learned were numerous. We learned a bit in our failure.”
The next year teams were on fire, he said. “They worked crazy hard to compete in the worlds. We were one of the top 24
teams in the world.”
There have been up years and down years, Leifson said. “Every year is different because they change the game. It’s not a repeat.”
Davis won the world championship in 2015 and 2018, he said. “It was pretty incredible. Ironically the champs were brothers. The older one won his senior year and his little brother later won his senior year.”
The world championship was set for May 6-8. “Our focus is on a happy, harmonious club,” said Leifson. “At the end of the day – this is family to them.” l
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The Davis High team, Denison Erickson, Nathan Toomey and Heber Reed at the Rumble in the Rockies robotics competition. Students spend 20-30 hours planning and building a robot then another 10 hours programming the basics. Courtesy photo
Robots take over at a recent school board meeting.
Photo by Becky Ginos
Mental Health AWARENESS MONTH
Education bills give students more opportunities to earn credentials and explore careers
KAYSVILLE—Gov. Cox hosts ceremonial signing at Davis Tech.
By Becky Ginos becky.g@thecityjournals.com
Surrounded by trucks and machinery, at the Diesel/Heavy Duty Technician Lab at Davis Technical College (Davis Tech), Gov. Spencer Cox hosted a ceremonial signing on Monday, of several education and student opportunity bills. Cox was joined by the lawmakers who sponsored the bills. The new legislation will allow students to earn credentials while exploring careers and planning for their future.
“I can tell you I was not as good in this part as I was in the other part of school,” Cox said, speaking of technical education. “But I have a brother who’s really good in this part of school and has thrived in making sure that we have those opportunities available to all of our kids, whatever their interest is and whatever their capacity is.”
It’s so important, he said. “I’m so proud of what you (legislators) all have worked so hard to accomplish.”
“HB219 is a really important bill that facilitates funding for charter schools, particularly the facility finance space,” said Rep. Neil Walter. “One thing I love about this is it doesn’t cost the state money and we’re actually going to save schools. This is a great way for us to put money back into schools and back into classrooms by working on some of the financing mechanisms without asking taxpayers for more resources – more funds.”
Walter said they had some extraordinary help from industry professionals. “We had some very good research and industry perspective that was provided. Then we’ve had tremendous support from our charter school communities. It’s a great bill. Thank you for signing it.”
“HB260 is very near and dear to our hearts, something we worked very hard on,” said Cox. “This is the first credential program.”
“This is an example of a bill where many people came together,” said Sen. Ann Millner who sponsored the bill. “We started this work probably several years ago. The PRIME program was found to be something that was making a difference but it needed more clarity.”
It needed to be simpler for students, she said. “It needed to be simpler for parents and it needed to be clear that this is an option that would allow you to go to work or go to school, continue to do higher education or both just in case you’re interested in it.”
Millner said they pulled together groups of people over the summer and fall to help get the structure of it right. “That
included superintendents, school board members, local school board members, teachers and others all coming together to help us make sure we’re doing this in the right way.”
The goal is that every student who wants this opportunity and a wide range of career fields in the workforce will be able to have that opportunity, she said. “That’s something that can make a real difference in terms of having our students have more opportunities.”
“I want to quickly give a shout out to our teachers,” said Rep. Douglas Welton, sponsor of HB381. “Our teachers do an incredible job educating the public and our students on the American government and civics. I look at students coming out of high school right now and they know more than I did when I graduated from high school.”
They have a better understanding of court cases and government documents and things like that but we still find ourselves at a shortage of civics education and our ability to engage meaningfully in the public square when we’re talking about the world that we live in and civics is a place that everyone engages in. So what this bill (HB381) does is put a greater focus on our government, principles and institutions and our documents including the study of the entire Constitution, something that I think not very many people have ever read.”
Welton said he believes that this bill will encourage better conversations with better outcomes. “This will have a ripple effect throughout many, many generations to come.”
“As I walk in it’s hard not to notice the backdrop,” said Speaker Mike Schultz, sponsor of HB447 Statewide Catalyst Campus Model. “What a great shout out and opportunity talking about technical education and a catalyst campus. I want you to know not only do I notice the vehicles, but also the smell. I love the smell of automotive shops. It brings me back to my days in high school automotive class.”
This catalyst campus bill is expand-
ing career technical education opportunities in the high school range, he said. “I’ll never forget having an opportunity to visit the Catalyst Center right here in Davis County. They’ve really led the way. What I love most about the catalyst model is it involves industry.”
The workforce, businesses, citizens and kids are really wanting more opportunities in technical education, said Schultz. “This bill expands that.”
The last bill signed was SB162 Talent Connect that was also sponsored by Millner.
“As society changes, as career paths change, we’re going to be re-educating more and more people later in life,” said Cox. “I’m going to need a new job in four years so I’m going to need a place to come back and learn new skills. That’s what this is all about.” l
Gov. Spencer Cox tries out a truck in the Diesel/Heavy Duty Technician Lab at Davis Technical College (Davis Tech). Cox signed several education bills. Photo courtesy Davis Tech
A Davis Tech student shakes hands with the governor after the ceremony. Photo by Becky Ginos
flowers. “It took me 100 hours over a span of three months,” Kimball said. “I had to let the layers dry for a week in between. I was going through a dark time and the bright colors brought color into my life.”
Syracuse High School sophomore Lexi Reese’s piece, “The Climb” had significance to her as well. “It’s climbing toward becoming the person I want to be,” she said. “I keep going even if I’m tired. I just keep climbing toward the next step.”
It’s based off of a poem, said Reese. “I’ve fallen off the ladder then I can finally climb back up. The bottom is a dark abyss of what I used to be. I still have a lot to go but I’ve come a long way. It’s me looking down but also looking above at what’s ahead of me.”
Reese said art has been a way to express herself since she was little. “It’s what I enjoy – it’s how I see the world.”
Zerthun Mekuria from Layton High won Best of Show with her painting “Untamed Joy.” Mekuria was also named Junior Artist in Residence at the BDAC.
“She gets access to one of our studio spaces downstairs,” said Bren Larson,
BDAC Education & Exhibitions Director. “All summer, she will work with the director of exhibitions to create a show that will be in this gallery. She has access to our resources with connection to different mentors. That’s a really exciting opportunity. So we’re really excited to work with her.”
The exhibition will be on display through May 16 at the BDAC, 90 N. Main Street. For more information about the BDAC visit https://www.bdac.org/.l
Infusion + Wellness
after your
Rylie Kimball with her self portrait in Italy.
Reese with her artwork "The Climb." Art has been a way to express herself since she was little. Photos by Becky Ginos
Teen Living Center changed direction of homeless student’s life
LAYTON—High school senior shares his story at a recent school board meeting.
By Becky Ginos becky.g@thecityjournals.com
TheTeen Living Center opened in September and has already had an impact on at-risk kids who need a safe place to stay while learning life skills and working toward graduation. One Davis County teen has seen his life turn around completely because of the center. He shared his story with the school board at a recent meeting.
“I’ve been at the teen center since last October,” said Mountain High senior Raul Perez. “My life has changed since receiving the opportunities and support this place has given me.”
Before arriving in October, Perez said he was homeless for two weeks. “I was staying at a friend’s house – unsure of what was next. I didn’t have anywhere to go and I was unsure where I was going to sleep and what I was going to eat and how I was going to pay for my medical bills and perhaps most importantly if there was any way I could still graduate from high school.”
When he brought his concerns to his school counselor she mentioned that a place in Layton had just recently opened. “It was a place to house and bathe homeless teens in the school district,” said Perez. “I was relieved to
hear there was somewhere I could go to focus on my studies without having to worry about my basic necessities.”
Perez said when he first came to the facility he didn’t just find a place to sleep. “I found a place where people genuinely cared about my wellbeing and my future. From day one the staff helped me get back into school and provided hygiene products but most importantly supported me in getting sober.”
They worked with him to improve his grades. “They helped me switch schools to a better environment and even helped set up my doctor’s appointment.”
Perez said little by little they guided him toward independence. “They helped me see that I had a future beyond just surviving day to day. Some of the most meaningful moments I have experienced here weren’t just about the academics or stability but about knowing I wasn’t alone.”
When he had a band concert one of the mentors showed up to support him, said Perez. “When I had surgery for a blood clot I’d been dealing with for nearly 10 months, they were there in a way I will never forget.”
Perez said those moments showed him that he was more than just another case. “They showed me that I mattered. Because of this facility I’m on track to graduate. I’m six months sober. I’m not just thinking about the next day – I’m thinking about my future. I’m preparing to attend Weber State. Something I never thought was possible before.”
More than anything Perez said he’s
learned how to advocate for himself and take charge of his life. “I am incredibly thankful not just for the roof over my head but for the people who come and help. For the people who make donations, clean or even just install a shelf.”
It may seem like small acts, he said. “But together they help create a home and to the staff who I have come to know and love you have shaped my future in ways I can’t put into
words.”
To everyone who made this facility possible, please know that what you’ve done isn’t just about providing shelter, he told the board. “You have changed the direction of my life. You’ve given me and so many others the chance to build a better future. So from the bottom of my heart thank you. Your work matters. Because of you I’m ready to take the next steps in my life.” l
Davis High School student to compete in National American Legion Oratorical Contest
Since 1938, the contest has developed knowledge and appreciation for the United States Constitution among high school students.
By Cindi Mansell c.mansell@mycityjournals.com
The American Legion Oratorical competition allows high school students to argue different aspects of the United States Constitution while competing for scholarships. Since 1938, the program has presented participants with an academic speaking challenge that teaches important leadership qualities, the history of our nation’s laws, the ability to think and speak clearly, and an understanding of the duties, responsibilities, rights and privileges of American citizenship.
One of Utah’s own, Simon Parnell of Davis High School, will participate in the American Legion Oratorical Contest at the National level. Having won at the John W. Sheets Post 27 – Farmington, District II, and Department (Utah State) levels, Parnell will compete with the other winners from all 50 states, Puerto Rico, District of Columbia, and France. In 2024, Parnell also won at the District, Region, and State levels before participating in the national competition.
The 2025 National Finals will be May 16-18 in Hillsdale, Michigan at Hillsdale College. Quarter-final and Semi-final contests are scheduled for Saturday, May 17; finals are scheduled for Sunday, May 18. A banquet honoring all contestants will be Sunday afternoon, following the na-
tional championship contest.
Young orators earn some of the most generous college scholarships available to high school students. Over $203,500 in scholarships can be awarded each year. The overall national contest winner gets a $25,000 scholarship. Second place takes home $22,500, and third gets $20,000. Each department (state) winner who is certified into and participates in the national contest’s first round receives a $2,000 scholarship. Those who advance past the first round receive an additional $2,000 scholarship. The American Legion’s National Organization awards the scholarships, which can be used at any college or university in the United States.
Parnell was introduced to debate when he was 12 and has been involved since. He said, “Debate encourages problem solving and also helps one identify their own strengths and weaknesses to be able to defend your ideas in a respectful manner.” Unlike a family dinner bash, this particular type of debate is structured and well organized. Parnell also loves running, travel and theater; he hopes to pursue a career in diplomacy.
For more details on this and other Legion programs, go to The American Legion website at Legion.org. l
Davis Education Foundation Executive Director Jodi Lunt welcomes visitors to the Teen Living Center opening. A teen who has been staying there told his story at a recent school board meeting about how the facility changed his life. Photo by Becky Ginos
Simon Parnell, 2025 Utah State Oratorical Winner, with Shiela Heindel, Department of Utah Oratorical Chair and John Robertson, Department of Utah Vice Commander. Courtesy photo
School safety top of mind in Davis School District
FARMINGTON—Safety requirements to meet new legislation presented at a recent school board meeting.
By Becky Ginos becky.g@thecityjournals.com
As part of new legislation, schools must comply with several safety protocols such as interior locks, bleed kits, secure vestibules, window protection and possibly Safety Guardians. Assistant Superintendent John Zurbuchen gave an update at a recent Davis School Board of Education meeting.
“What we’ve learned in this space is that it's ever changing,” Zurbuchen said. “What we did a year ago when the first safety bill passed and what we have today with the new legislation has changed some of the parameters and changed some of the deadlines.”
Look at the dates, they’re out there, he said. “By 2029-2030 all schools must have video surveillance, internal classroom door locks, bleed kits and first aid kits and exterior cameras. We in Davis have met the video surveillance as well as the exterior cameras responsibility. We met that four or five years ago. We continue to add those cameras, we continue to update those cameras in terms of their acuity – we are there.”
Zurbuchen said a year ago he would have given the board a dollar figure. “Now we found out the state came up with some money – just shy of $3 million – and they will now be providing us the finances to buy the interior locks for all of the doors in all of our buildings so they can be locked
from the inside easily. We’ll do an RFP on that but we have funding for it so that’s taken care of over the next year.”
They thought at the time they’d also be paying for the bleed kits, Zurbuchen said. “The state’s going to be paying for the bleed kits. They have prescribed what has to be in the bleed kits and what has to be in the first aid kits. That will be in every space where kids inhabit.”
In 2034-2035 secure vestibules will be required, he said. “We were doing that 10 years ago. So we are there, we made that 10 years ago.”
The district is great with video surveillance, said Zurbuchen. “That’s all taken care of. We have cameras everywhere. They have great visual coverage of our buildings. We’ve solved some neighborhood crime because of what we’ve been able to find on our video camera. Law enforcement has access to the cameras when there is an event.”
The law also states very clearly that schools must have at least one armed individual in the building when school is being taught, Zurbuchen said. “Either you have an SRO (School Resource Officer) contracted with a municipality, which we have in our secondary schools, or you can contract with a private security agency or you can have what are called School Guardians.”
School Guardians are school employees, he said. “They must be school employees. That’s essential to understand first. Because when it first came out, people thought ‘it’s a volunteer.’ So people in the community could volunteer to be guardians.”
That is not allowable by law, said Zurbuchen. “They must be a school employee
and not have direct responsibility for children. So that takes out the principal. That takes out all your teaching staff. Primarily what you’re looking at is custodial staff, some administrative staff other than the principal, office staff or kitchen staff.”
The law says there must be one of those three in every building at all times when the education program is going on, he said. “You can have multiple, but you have to have at least one.”
A School Guardian has volunteer status, Zurbuchen said. “It’s an employee who chooses to go. This is solely and purely volunteering. The requirements for that volunteer is first the administrator has to say ‘yeah, I’m OK with you being a guardian.’ If you pass the principal you have to have a valid carry permit. You have to have
that already. Not, ‘I’m going to get it,’ I’ve already got it.”
After that, the person has to have a mental health screening, he said. “Once you’ve passed all of that you have to go get your field training. The Sheriff’s Office is responsible for organizing that training and they’ll be training at various times throughout the year. That is both tactical training as well as firearm training. If they pass that training, now they’re able to be a School Guardian.”
Guardians by statute are not publicized, said Zurbuchen. “The only folks who will know who the guardians are, are the local police, the principal, etc. They wear no insignia, they conceal carry, you would not know who they are when you walk into a building.” l
Electronic Message Center sign to be installed
The city approved an Electronic Message Center (EMC) sign for Barnes Memorial Park.
By Cindi Mansell c.mansell@mycityjournals.com
TheArchitectural Review Committee is responsible for approving all signs in the Kaysville Business Park. The City’s Parks and Recreation Department submitted a building permit to install an Electronic Message Center (EMC) sign along the southern property line of Barnes Park (approximately 950 West 200 North).
There was an existing sign at this location which has been demolished, and the EMC monument sign will be constructed in its place. The EMC sign for Barnes Park is an exact replica of the sign on Main Street on the City Hall campus in front of the old library, except the permanent wording at the bottom of the sign will say “Barnes Memorial Park.”
“In addition to the Architectural Review Committee, the sign has gone through every process possible; including a text amendment, building permit, and conditional use permit from the Planning Commission,” Community Development Director Melinda Greenwood said.
According to the City Code, EMC signs are allowed only as part of monument and ground signs. Staff have reviewed the sign plans and find them compliant with Kaysville Sign Regulations and the Kaysville Business Park Development Guide.
Greenwood said the previous sign was oriented east to west; the EMC sign would be more southern. “The sign has the ability to dim the lights at night and the image can be made static,” Parks & Recreation Manager Cole Stephens said.
He said it will be a very sophisticated sign.
The Architectural Review Committee voted to approve the sign for Barnes Park. l
Slide courtesy DSD
The new sign would be similar to this one in front of Kaysville City Hall. Courtesy photo
Community Heroes: Roller skating coaches bring heart and soul to the sport
Meet the coaches directing artistic skaters one glide at a time.
By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Dougand Diane Adams are the unsung community heroes behind the scenes of Utah Skating Academy. Whether teaching wobbly beginners or mentoring professional roller skaters, the couple have influenced the sport for more than 50 years. Together, they have coached more than 50 national champions and their artistic roller skating teams have won top spots in the Southwest Region and Pan American International competitions.
West Jordan resident Steven Geoghan nominated the duo as City Journals Community Heroes. The 70-year-old roller skater thought they deserved attention for the good they do for their students and the sport.
“Even when I left this morning, they were trying to encourage me and tell me I did a good job, even though I have my own thoughts about that,” Geoghan said. “They’ll work with anybody and it’s been good for me.”
The Adams are more than instructors. They are advanced certified coaches with USA Roller Sports and the Society of Roller Skating Teachers. As cheerleaders on wheels, they help skaters of any age build confidence and learn to enjoy the art of skating.
The Utah Skating Academy is based at Classic Fun Center (9151 S. 255 West) in Sandy, where they’ve been coaching since they moved from Ukiah, California, to Utah in 2017. The
academy provides multiple artistic skating lessons each week for beginners of all ages and more experienced skaters with figure, loops, freestyle, dance and show.
“There were some surveys done back in the early 60s with teenage girls and skating was the most popular sport in the country. Today, things have changed a little bit,” Doug Adams said. “We’ve got something for all ages. My wife is really good at coming up with promotions and fun ideas.
Thanks to the 2024 TV series “Roller Jam,” the Utah Skating Academy has seen a resurgence of interest in the sport. The show features roller-dancing teams from across the country and one of the Adams’ former students, Josiah Bishop, competed on the show.
On Saturday mornings, the academy offers four classes: freestyle, dance, figure/loop and one-star/two-star. On Wednesday afternoons, another one-star/two-star class is offered, along with skills and drills. Mondays and Tuesdays are reserved for travel team practice.
In 1961, Doug started skating in Walnut Creek, California. He skated as an amateur for 10 years, before turning professional in 1970. Later, he returned to Walnut Creek to operate the rink then moved to Ukiah where he owned and operated a roller rink for 30 years. That’s where he met Diane. Her parents were former rink operators and had retired in Ukiah. Diane went to work for Doug and they were married two years later.
“We are an artistic skating club, which means figures, loops and freestyle, which is jumping and spinning, and dance,” he said. “I used to coach roller derby and I’ve coached hockey, so I’ve kind of done everything in skating that there is to do. We prefer the artistic and we’ve got a nice artistic club. We’ve got about 45 skaters here and our program is four days a week.”
For more information about classes, competitive teams, events and skating packages, visit SkateCityUkiah.com.
“We do what we do because we love it. We have a big love for the sport,” Doug said. “Not only have I been in it all this time, but I’m honored to be able to give back. We love giving back to the community.”
To submit your Community Hero, email hero@thecityjournals.com. l
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Diane and Doug Adams have performed with and coached artistic roller teams for more than 50 years. They were nominated as Community Heroes in the Sandy area. Photo courtesy of the Adams
Community gets families through highs and lows of military life
April is Month of the Military Child.
By Becky Ginos becky.g@thecityjournals.com
LAYTON—Hill Air Force Base (HAFB) brings families from all over the country to Davis County and sometimes moving around all of the time and starting over can be hard – especially on the kids. April is Month of the Military Child, a time to focus on helping children feel welcome in their new surroundings.
Joy Cornelius, whose husband is Col. Daniel Cornelius, 75th Air Base Wing and Installation Commander at HAFB shared her experiences as a military family at a recent Davis Chamber Women in Business meeting. Cornelius emphasized the importance of community and looking for ways to help the kids.
“I kind of knew what we were getting into,” she said. “But the kids did not.”
Cornelius said when they moved to Hill her daughter was in her senior year of high school. “It was so, so hard. She’d been playing soccer at her other school but she didn’t make the team here. She was following her friends on social media and watching them play which was tough.”
F-35s are flying around but behind that are kids trying to figure it out and make their way, she said. “What can we do to help the kids?”
Here especially, there's open lunch, said Cornelius. “That’s paralyzing to a military kid. They don’t know where to go. They don’t know the time limit. You don’t
know how you’re getting there and how you’re getting back.”
When they’ve just moved here they may not drive or have a car, she said. “That is the worst thing for military kids is lunch because you walk in and you don’t know anybody and everybody already has a group. Tell your kids to always make sure nobody is sitting alone.”
Cornelius shared some of the experiences they have had over the last 26 years in the military. “Dan was deployed on Sept. 11,” she said. “Right before Sept. 11 I miscarried and my grandmother was dying. For the first time I couldn’t go home. I was away going through what I was going through and Dan was deployed.”
Later while they were stationed in Germany, their daughter Lauren was born six weeks early, said Cornelius. “Dan was deployed and missed her birth. He was worlds away and I couldn’t call him because I didn’t want to scare him.”
There was an Air Force surgeon at the hospital where Lauren was born that had become a dear friend, she said. “He helped me throughout my labor and delivery because Dan was gone.” Before Lauren was born he said, “Joy, there’s this one gentleman that I fear is not going to make it. I had to amputate three of his limbs. I had his heart in my hands trying to save him. His dad just said, ‘don’t let him be cold. He doesn’t like to be cold.’ So I put a blanket on him.”
After Lauren was born they whisked her away,” Cornelius said. “I couldn’t be with her right then so I went to my room. Then I heard code blue and everybody running. It was 20 minutes later and the surgeon told me ‘I did
everything I could to save him but I lost him.’”
So here was Lauren born at 12:08 and that gentleman died 20 minutes after her, she said. “That’s the real world – a celebration of birth. I can’t imagine what that family was going through then.”
With the highs and lows of military life and what it encompasses it means so much to have a community, said Cornelius. “You hear about the community at Hill but actually being here and experiencing it is a whole other level. It’s incredible.” l
Jan Seachris, School Liaison, ties a purple ribbon for Month of the Military Child, at Hill Air Force Base, Utah. U.S. Air Force photo by Cynthia Griggs
Five local speakers share ideas at TEDxBountiful
The event was organized by community volunteers. The speakers were all Davis County residents selected from 70 applicants.
By Becky Ginos becky.g@thecityjournals.com
BOUNTIFUL—What’s the purpose of a TED talk? TED is a non profit that is devoted to the spreading of ideas – because ideas can change the world. That’s what brought community members together at TEDxBountiful held recently featuring a variety of short talks by five local speakers, Dr. Logan Toone, Julie Laub, Kate Olsen, Dr. Ray Ward and Kara Toone.
TEDx = independently organized event that “brings people together to share a TEDlike experience.”
“Tonights event has been organized by community volunteers and speakers are all local Davis County residents,” said Emcee, Keaton Gerrard. “So they’re all people who live, work and lead in this community.”
“Part of the purpose of tonight’s event is to record these TED talks to send to TEDx to review and upload to their platform,” he said. “As you listen to these speakers, keep in mind that over 70 people applied to speak. So they’re the best of the best. They were chosen because they have amazing ideas, both of local importance and global importance.”
Dr. Logan Toone, Assistant Superintendent at the Davis School District kicked off the evening with “Parenting 2.0: Raising the First Generation of AI-Integrated Youth.”
“For decades we’ve been entertained by science fiction books and movies portraying sentient, intelligent computers taking
over our lives and sometimes taking over the world,” said Toone. “We are obsessed with artificial intelligence and everything changed in November of 2022 when a company called Open AI released ChatCPT. Since that day a world of constantly shifting AI technology has been within our finger tips for all of us, including our kids.”
Toone said as an administrator in a school district he can say without a doubt that artificial intelligence is reshaping the classroom, perhaps as a microcosm for how it is reshaping the world. “Although I see the impact of AI every day in my professional life today, I’d like to speak not so much from my perspective as an educator, but rather from perspective as an aspiring, which is a nice way of saying, amateur parent.”
Every generation of adults has worried about their own next generation, he said. “Our great grandparents worried about our grandparents. Our grandparents worried about our parents, our parents worried about us and we in turn, worry about our kids.”
Parenting 2.0 requires talking often with your kids about the risks of engaging with others online, said Toone. “We need to set clear expectations and actively monitor our kid’s online interactions.”
Supporting children in the way they consume and share online information is critical, he said. “I am happy to say that the impact of AI technology is not all doom and gloom. Parenting 2.0 includes an upgraded optimism for the exciting and relatively unknown world that awaits our kids.”
Another speaker, Kara Toone, with the Davis Education Foundation, the nonprofit fundraising arm of the Davis School District, talked on the topic “Breaking the Cycle of Homelessness.”
“I have to observe that if we don’t do
more to block the entry points to homelessness, we can expect to engage in mitigation efforts indefinitely,” she said. “If we were to actually reduce homelessness, we need to apply many more of our available resources to prevention.”
Davis Education Foundation has asked that question and is engaging in a groundbreaking experiment to answer it, Kara said. “It all centers on the idea that public schools and their surrounding communities are ideally positioned to stop homelessness before it ever really starts.”
First it’s important to understand that there are students in Davis School District already experiencing homelessness, she said. “If students are already homeless when they're attending public school, aren’t they already in the pipeline toward adult home-
lessness? The answer is ‘yes, they are.’”
But here’s where school can disrupt that cycle, said Kara. “Davis Education Foundation fund raised to build its first teen center in the Davis School District. Teen centers are spaces in high schools where at-risk and homeless students can access private showers and monitoring facilities, a place to study, food resources, transportation vouchers, clothing, academics, sports, etc.” Homelessness is complicated, she said. “I don’t believe that there are any easy fixes. I do believe, however, that public schools and particularly the targeted programs that they are uniquely positioned to deliver, hold the key to stopping homelessness before it really starts. It’s within our power to do this now.”l
Public Works Director receives employee of the year award
The APWA Utah Chapter honored Josh Belnap for his outstanding service.
By Cindi Mansell c.mansell@mycityjournals.com
The Utah Chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA) recently awarded Kaysville City Public Works Director, Josh Belnap, the G. Mark Morrison Outstanding Public Works Employee of the Year.
“I work with 21 people in the Public Works Department and I cannot ever say enough good about what they do and the sacrifices they make in their personal lives responding to emergencies throughout the year,” Belnap said. The award is a “team effort,” he said.
The APWA Utah Chapter annually rec-
ognizes outstanding individuals or groups representing the best in public works and those who have demonstrated excellence in service to their community through their role in public works. Award nominations are solicited for multiple categories of position excellence, ranging from Storm Water to Flood Control to Traffic Operations.
National Public Works Week is observed during the third full week of May to recognize the importance of public works in an organized society. l Public Works Director, Josh Belnap (center) stands with Mayor Tamera Tran and other city officials after receiving the G. Mark Morrison Outstanding Public Works Employee of the Year. Courtesy photo
Dr. Logan Toone, Assistant Superintendent at the Davis School District kicks off the evening with “Parenting 2.0: Raising the First Generation of AI-Integrated Youth.” Photo by Becky Ginos
Bridle Up Hope teaches life skills and emotional resilience through the healing power of horses
KAYSVILLE—Becky and Mike Jensen established the program and recently broke ground on an indoor arena in Kaysville.
By Becky Ginos becky.g@thecityjournals.com
that teaches girls life skills, offers emotional support and hope through the healing power of horses, recently broke ground on a new indoor arena in Kaysville. Bridle Up Hope Davis County is part of a network of locations across the world “who share a common mission to bring hope and healing to women who are struggling with challenges in life.”
Bridle Up Hope was started by the Sean and Rebecca Covey family in honor of their daughter Rachel, who passed away as a result of depression in 2012. Rachel was the granddaughter of author and businessman, the late Stephen R. Covey.
The program is designed to help all girls and women, ages 12 and older and especially geared to those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, abuse or trauma, according to Bridle Up.
In 2021, Becky and Mike Jensen saw the program, which is based on Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People” and felt a connection with the Covey family after having a similar experience.
“Becky just started at the house and quickly realized the potential value,” said Mike. “It just took off.”
It helps women who are looking for hope and the skills to build resilience, he said. “The world is so hard for them. It’s crazy out there. It’s not therapy. It’s not counseling but a way to teach life skills and to manage situations.”
“They took the 7 habits and created it for equestrians,” said Becky. “It's basically the same. We teach young women and it’s amazing how similar it is to the basics of horsemanship.”
Becky grew up with horses and she was a school teacher, said Mike. “Now she’s doing it full time.”
Through donations and grants the Jensens were able to purchase land to build the barn/house with an outdoor area for the horses. “We finished the barn and started teaching classes there,” said Becky. “The new indoor riding arena will make it possible to go year round. Right now we have to close down in the winter.”
The program is 14 weeks for girls and seven weeks for women, she said. “It feeds their body, heart, mind and soul. We have yoga, walking trails, art therapy, cooking classes, etc. On Saturdays we get together and gather fresh eggs and have a farm breakfast.”
Participants learn to take charge of their horse and charge of their life, Becky said. “It teaches confidence as they get the horse to follow and they learn they can be a leader.”
Girls set a goal each week of what they’re going to work on, she said. “They come up with their own goal. It can be something like walking into a group and saying ‘hi.’ Part of the lesson is journaling. Parents get a copy of the book to read so they can be supportive. There is a graduation at the end
where their family comes out to celebrate.”
The girls are asked to come back and give service, said Becky. “They take care of the horses, clean the corrals and take care of the goats, chickens and dogs.”
The program is $2,500 per girl for the 14 week class and $1,500 for the women’s seven week course. “You can request a scholarship,” Becky said. “We have people in the community who sponsor girls. Most receive significant help. We want to make sure no one is turned away.”
“Becky is a unique person,” said Mike. “She knows horses and how to teach and incorporate the habits. We’re all building the roots, branches and leaves – they all blend together.” l
The Bridle Up Hope program is designed to help all girls and women ages 12 and older. Photo courtesy of Mike Jensen
South Davis Sewer District partners with Opal Fuels to take on food waste Management
Nation-leading operation Opal Fuels has signed a partnership with the South Davis Sewer District to take on Food Waste Management projects.
By Simon Mortensen s.mortensen@davisjournal.com
Collaborating with a new operation to better handle needs in the area, the South Davis Sewer District has entered a public-private partnership with Opal Fuels.
“I am really impressed with Opal,” said Matt Myers, general manager of the South Davis Sewer District. “They’re sharp, they’re confident they know what they’re doing and that’s one of the big reasons that we went with them was that they clearly impressed us on a lot of different fronts.”
Opal Fuels – who describes themselves as “a fully integrated, nationwide leader” in the renewable gas sector – signed an agreement in March that gave them a controlling interest over food waste management projects. The shares purchased were from a former partner of the district, who was looking to sell.
According to Myers, though Opal Fuels has engaged in multiple endeavors such as generating renewable natural gas from manure anaerobic digesters, this collaboration will mark their first food waste aerobic digester project. The district is eager to see how the organization’s focus on renewable natural gas will benefit overall operations.
“We are totally happy to have them come and take that operating decision-making burden off of the district,” said Myers. “Now we can just focus back on what we do really well, which is provide excellent
public service in the sewer collection and treatment space.”
Part of Opal Fuel’s strategy involves trading on the natural gas markets – maximizing on what they yield from each project. Opening selling opportunities for the organization and sewer district, the partnership could lead to Davis County becoming an established generator of renewable fuel.
Though they enter the partnership with a controlling interest, Opal Fuel’s agreement allows them to earn additional shares for high performance, potentially turning the sewer district into a minority owner of the food waste management project.
“Even if our shares reduce overtime, we’re still in a great position because that will mean that they are succeeding very well and we are getting another revenue stream that we didn’t initially rely on,” said Myers.
According to Myers, South Davis Sewer District first began work on food waste management projects between 2016 and 2017 during the tenure of the former district manager and board of trustees. The previous partner, a local operation and subsidiary of a larger organization, decided two years ago to sell their share of the 5050 partnership they’d agreed to.
Though the previous partner had control over who and how their shares would be sold, the signer had to be approved by the sewer district.
In addition to upgrading food waste management operations within the area, South Davis Sewer District is currently overseeing construction on a 12.66-acre property they purchased in May of last year. Their goal is to future-proof their capabilities and ensure they can stay ahead of their facility’s aging. l
The South Davis Sewer District has engaged in a public-private partnership with Opal Fuels to take on food waste management operations. Photo by Simon Mortensen
Life-changing moment led inventor to revolutionize MRI safety
Motivated by a patient’s suffering during a risky MRI procedure, Brandon Johnson invented KyphoLift – a groundbreaking MRI positioning device that improves patient safety and efficiency.
By Gail Newbold andersennewbold@gmail.com
Brandon Johnson will never forget the fear on the face of the patient transported into the MRI department one night with a delicate spinal cord injury. He and other medical staff gathered around the older woman to cautiously hoist her onto the table and place pillows and sponges under her for the required position for the scan. Stakes were high due to her limited mobility and the risk of causing further damage.
“Although we did the best we could with the industry options available at that time, the patient’s critical condition highlighted how outdated and inefficient the methodology was,” said Johnson, then an MRI technologist. “This wasn’t an isolated incident, it happens all the time. But it was the first time I vividly remember walking away thinking there had to be a better
way.”
As a result of that night six years ago, Johnson is now focusing all his energy on making his solution to the problem available to patients. It is a groundbreaking MRI patient positioning system he invented called KyphoLift. The device retrofits all existing MRI machines and eliminates the need for manual lifting, reduces re-scans and helps MRI staff work faster, safer and smarter. The early market acceptance of KyphoLift internationally has enabled Johnson to recently switch from working as Radiology Safety and Compliance Officer at the VA Hospital in Salt Lake City to work on KyphoLift full time.
As with most new inventions, the road from brainstorming an idea to bringing it to market was arduous. He ruminated on the problem. He sought advice from trusted mentors like Troy D’ambrosio at the Lassonde Institute and the Technology Transfer Office at the University of Utah with the support of Satoshi Minoshima.
“They were phenomenal,” said the Bountiful father of two. “They guided me along the way and helped me file two provisional patents. At the time, I had no idea what a patent was or any of the other steps necessary and I’m glad I didn’t. I might have been too overwhelmed to proceed.”
After creating the company, work was started on prototyping and manufacturing of the commercial product by Turner MedTech, an Orem manufacturing company.
“It feels like a miracle I made it through those hurdles,” said Johnson. “They say a typical medical device takes five to seven years to bring to market and $1 to $3 million and I was able to do it for much less, but only because I didn’t know
any better or how to quit. Fortunately, the MRI world is hungry for this device and sales indicate its growing success.”
Johnson encourages others to imagine how they might be the means of improving some process in their work. He places a big emphasis on helping others with their ideas and sharing his.
“I feel like inventions come from a creative space inside,” Johnson said. “And once you give yourself permission to believe you’re smart and capable of coming up with an idea, your brain will help you. Maintaining good intentions toward others also has a serendipitous effect. I’m not paranoid about others benefitting from my ideas. I think it puts power behind them.”
In addition to flying around the country to demonstrate and teach MRI technologists how to use his device, Johnson has four other patents that he hopes to bring to market.
Being a medical device manufacturer is not his ultimate goal, however.
“My goal is to do as much good as I can,” he said. “It’s not to have five houses and a G-wagon. My ultimate goal is to help other people when needed. Creating medical devices is a means to an end. Of course, I want them to be successful and make a lot of money, but all for a higher good.” l
Connect authentically with your own body, emotions and mind
Marie Hyde works at the EFT clinic in Bountiful which stands for Emotionally Focused Therapy.
By Kerry Angelbuer k.angelbuer@mycityjournals.com
On the surface of life, it may seem that everything is going along pretty well. Showing a competent face to friends and family and on the internet, however, may not reflect what is going on within. Marie Hyde, an intern at Aspire Counseling Network in Kaysville, sees a common thread in her clients, many of whom suffer from generalized anxiety and/or depression, of trying to appear “normal” and up beat while feeling vulnerable and imperfect just below the surface. The uptick of anxiety, Hyde believes, lingers from the uncertainty and disconnection of the COVID-19 pandemic along with the “appearances” mentality of social media making many feel like they are not enough. The perfect storm for emotional difficulties. Therapy allows someone to show up for themselves and lean into their own vulnerabilities and so be accepted for who they are now. Allowing a safe space with unconditional positive regard can be transformational for clients, said Hyde,
fulfilling what “they really long for and need.” Our increasingly online communications neglects the connections of facial expression, eye contact and touching others. Hyde has observed teenagers sitting in the same room texting each other without looking up.
“An incessant dialogue of self-criticism,” said Hyde, “can make people feel unlovable.” Whether the critical voice originated as a parent, teacher or bully in real life or on the internet, the critical voice can eventually become an irrational source of doubt and shame, the enemy of self-compassion. “Some say hyper-critical things to themselves,” said Hyde “that they would never say to anyone else.”
The critical voice may accuse them of laziness or a lack of responsibility and many believe that the harsh criticism is needed so that their behavior will be good enough, she said. Just because they think it, doesn’t make it true.
Hyde helps clients recognize logically why the voice is incorrect and when it should be ignored or replaced with more productive thoughts. As she teaches being present and more mindful, the client is quickly able to get the distance to dispel the “harsh,” often repetitive thoughts that have been causing such emotional pain. She works on helping people devel-
op a sense of friendship with themselves by helping them connect to their emotional experience.
“Often when I ask a client to describe their feelings, they are unable to express anything,” said Hyde, “maybe saying
something like ‘upset’ which is not even a true emotion. The human condition is imperfect and everyone is struggling with pain and fear. Just accepting this can lessen the stigma of aloneness.”
Once the client is able to connect authentically within their own body, emotions and mind, the deep connection desired with others becomes more likely, she said. “The rich relationships that are desired can be helped by tuning into oneself. As human beings, we have inherent worth. We don’t have to earn it by certain actions or achievements. We can be compassionate to ourselves and give this sense of self-worth to ourselves. Accepting it in ourselves can help us also see it in others.”
Currently, Hyde is teaching a class on self compassion and she has taken a class in the past on a similar topic at Davis Behavioral Health. While she sees classes as a great entry into greater mental health, she sees great transformation in individual therapy where someone can get to the case-specific root of present difficulties. Insurance often covers individual therapy associated with a diagnosis of anxiety or depression. Beginning in May, Hyde will begin working in her home town of Bountiful at the EFT clinic which stands for Emotionally Focussed Therapy. l
Brandon B. Johnson, CEO/Founder of KyphoLift, demonstrates his lifesaving MRI invention to teams of MRI technologists. Photo courtesy of Brandon Johnson
Marie Hyde is training to be a clinical mental health counselor and enjoys helping clients learn to be self compassionate and to improve mental health and relationships. Courtesy photo
75 years of history – Bountiful Elementary to be replaced by new building
BOUNTIFUL—The school will open in the fall.
By Becky Ginos becky.g@thecityjournals.com
In the fall of 1950, students walked in the doors of a new “modern” building – Bountiful Elementary School. Now, 75 years later a new “modern” building is replacing the old school. Construction of the new building has been taking place behind the current building and the old one is scheduled to be demolished after school ends and the new school will open in the fall.
“I started in 1978,” said Bountiful Elementary School secretary Linda Pearson. “I’ve been tasked with putting together a list of all the principals for our open house in May. There have been 16 in those 75 years. I’ve been around for 12 of them.”
Pearson has been pouring over old history books. “The PTA used to do history books,” she said. “It was so fun.”
Lamar Parkin was the first principal, Pearson said. “He came from Centerville Elementary. In 1950 they had blackboards, 75 years later we have smart boards. There’s so much more, like the internet.”
A clipping from one of the articles at the time read: “The excitement of exploring a new modern school and the renewing or making acquaintances of teachers and friends Monday made the opening of Bountiful’s new modern $215,000 grade school a memorable one.
“According to Lamar Parkin, principal, the school will handle from 300 to 350 pupils. Adjustments on boundary lines will have to be made the first week to even up the enrollment of students in the new school with that of Stoker grade school.
“The school contains 10 classrooms, principal’s office, health unit, teacher’s room, combination cafeteria and play room with adjoining kitchen, students’ work room, book room, janitors’ closet and two sets of rest rooms at opposite ends of the building.”
“The first building was L shaped,” said Pearson. “A second addition was made later.”
The neighborhood youth liked to climb on top of the building, she said. “One time some kids climbed down through a window into one of the rooms and stuffed paper in the sink and turned on the water. It flooded overnight. When the teacher came in the next day water was flowing down the stairs.”
The community was amazing, Pearson said. “People came in and hauled away garbage. One father brought in a floor polisher and cleaned it so the teacher could have a classroom set up.”
One mother decided the school should have a mascot, song and colors, Pearson said. “They came up with red and the Bobcats. She asked me to write a school song. We sang it before school opened and the kids all knew it.”
A past principal decided to get rid of it, she said. “When (Principal) Casey (Pickett) came she said ‘no I want it back.’
I started going outside with my guitar and singing with the kids. Every word came right back to me.”
According to the Davis School District website, after the old building is demolished a new playground and field will replace the area. “The new building will be two-stories totaling 91,785 square feet. It will have 32 classrooms, a separate multi-purpose room and cafeteria. It will be heated and cooled with an energy efficient ground-source heat exchange system which uses the constant temperature of the earth to heat and cool the building. The electrical usage of the building will be offset by photo-voltaic panels located on the roof. The site will have a separate parent drop-off and bus drop-off.”
Pearson intends on continuing her job in the new school. “I’m 77 and people ask me when I’m going to retire,” she said. “It
sounds silly but I feel like I’m supposed to be here. It’s been great.”
An open house to celebrate 75 years will be held at the school 1620 S. 50 West,
May 16 from 4 p.m.–7 p.m. For more information contact the school at 801-4021350. l
The new building will be two-stories totaling 91,785 square feet. It will have 32 classrooms. Photos by Becky Ginos
The school opened in 1950 and has had several remodels.
Pollinators are key to a beautiful garden
Attracting pollinators to your home to keep the harvests bountiful involves planting a variety of flowers that bloom throughout the growing season.
By Kerry Angelbuer k.angelbuer@mycityjournals.com
Whenmaking plans to have a bountiful harvest of vegetables, fruits and honey, keep in mind the necessary pollinators that make or break the quantity and variety of what is gathered at the end of the growing season. Nothing says that the warm growing season is here faster than a bumble bee bouncing from spring flowers and blossoms. If the garden has plenty of sun and good soil and water, yet the vegetables and fruits are not appearing, look to the pollinator. Their absence can decrease or even prevent these valuable home products from thriving.
According to Backyard Beekeepers Association, pollinating consists of moving the pollen from the male structure of the plant to the female. Though some crops like wheat, oats, and corn are pollinated by the wind, many garden plants also require insect pollination. Our food variety would be decreased significantly without these busy little insects. Zucchini, pumpkins, cucumber, apple, cherries and peaches for example require pollination. Increased pollination also increases yields of peppers and tomatoes. Crops such as peas and beans also require pollination. So, if strawberries are small and misshapen or cucumbers are bitter, attract some pollinators to improve the quality. Take some time to watch your garden for the activity of bugs, butterflies and bees. If
little to no activity is noted, it is time to take steps to attract pollinators.
“Any plant that flowers,” said Brian Horne, “will attract a pollinator.” He said that bees are the best pollinators as they are not eating the plants as they move from flower to flower. Their buzzing rubs their pollen-gathering legs in the flower centers efficiently gathering and spreading the genetic material. “Bees will also sting soft fruit,” said Horne, “gathering the juice that they bring back to the hive to make honey.” Though it is difficult to get honey to taste like clover, lavender or sage, peach juice can infuse its taste in the honey. So, fruit trees with their spring blossoms and seasonal fruit rely on pollinators and also attract them. Horne is a fan of homegrown honey which he believes may help lessen allergies, enhance immune function, treat coughs and serve as a very nutritious food, full of vitamins and enzymes, in times of need. Aiming for flowers that bloom throughout the growing season is best. Susan Ricks, an avid gardener cares for plants that bloom throughout the season. She sees the most bees on her Russian Sage. David Price, who landscapes for Layton Parks, loves the Dark Knight Bluebeard flowering bush that is often teeming with pollinators. Apricot trees that bloom earliest are most likely to not be pollinated because of the cooler temperatures. Taking a cotton swab or paintbrush and acting like a pollinator as it goes from flower to flower can set fruit where desired.
Backyard Beekeepers suggests avoiding the use of pesticides and fungicides that may also kill the needful pollinators. If they must be used choose less toxic ones like insecticidal soap and apply near dusk after the pollinators have retired for the day. l
Brian Horne collects honey from his “Flow” hive which provides honey through a tap. His bees keep things pollinated within a mile or two of his home in Bountiful. Courtesy photo
Lucky Slice Pizza coming to Bountiful Main Street
BOUNTIFUL—The restaurant will occupy the DeBoar's Running Store building.
By Becky Ginos becky.g@thecityjournals.com
The city has been wanting to bring a restaurant to Main Street for some time and they’ve finally found just the right fit – Lucky Slice Pizza. When DeBoar’s Running Store closed in October of 2023 after 40 years in business, Bountiful City bought the building in January of 2024 with the idea that a restaurant there would bring more people to downtown Main Street.
A year later, the City Council approved Lucky Slice’s application at a recent meeting and now the pizza restaurant is moving forward with an anticipated opening in the fall.
“It’s exciting,” said Mayor Kendalyn Harris. “We put out an RFP for any restaurant to give us their pitch about why they would want to come here. It seemed people were interested more in the evening hours to drive down to Main Street. So we wanted someone who would be open for lunch and dinner six days a week.”
Lucky Slice has a successful business model, she said. “They have restaurants in Logan, Ogden and Clearfield. They have good energy and vibe.”
The building backs onto the Town Square east of Main Street. “We hope they’ll have access to that so if a mom is at the park she can walk up to a window and get a slice of pizza for her kids.”
It’s a strategic location, said Harris. “It will energize downtown. There’s Makmak, the gluten free bakery Sweet
Cake Bake Shop and Vito’s. We want to attract more restaurants so it’s more of a destination when people are wondering ‘where can we go?’”
Harris said when Lucky Slice applied she decided to see for herself and went to their Ogden location. “I wanted to experience the ambiance. I tried the pizza and it was delicious. I thought, ‘they need to come to Bountiful.’”
They have unique flavors, she said. “You don’t see them everywhere. They also have the good old traditional favorites that are tried and true. I was sold when I sat down. It had a fun, inviting atmosphere. It was just really good. I was just sitting there thinking ‘this is delicious,’ I loved it.”
“The mayor reached out in 2020-2021,” said co-founder, co-owner, Nick VanArsdell. “She had been seeking a restaurant in general for Bountiful. I took a tour of Bountiful and looked at a few places but nothing fit our style or model.”
Two years went by, he said. “Then a cool building came up in historic downtown Main Street. When I saw it it matched what we do and it was a great location for us. The city went through the RFP process and we applied. One thing led to another and now we’re looking down the barrel at opening in Bountiful.”
VanArsdell said they have an affinity for historic buildings. “We like to use historic charm like exposing brick or original flooring, taking down the ceiling and repurposing it for tables and chairs. We get supplies from different sources like a defunct bowling alley or old gym floors.”
Their style is really guided by a DIY spirit, he said. “That’s how we start out. It inspires us to reflect that in our surroundings and food.”
Lucky Slice also uses murals, he said. “We’ve had mu-
Customers enjoy a meal at the Lucky Slice on Ogden. The murals on the wall were created by a local artist. Photo courtesy of Lucky Slice
Former city council member and legislator left lasting impact
WOODS CROSS—Susan Koehn passed away in January from breast cancer. Public service was a way of life.
By Becky Ginos becky.g@thecityjournals.com
Susan Koehn, a former Utah legislator and Woods Cross City Council member, passed away in January from breast cancer and left behind a legacy of service to the community and the state. Much of her focus was advocating for children, especially those with special needs.
“She was raised with the idea of public service,” said her husband David Copeland. “She grew up serving in the community. That’s what her family did. That’s who they were.”
Her dad was Brant Johnson who was with the Utah Highway Patrol for the first half of his career, he said. “The man running for Sheriff was killed in a deer hunting accident and really without warning, her father was asked to run. Susan was 16 or 17 when her dad ran for elected office. Her mom worked at the Juvenile Court.”
Susan worked for the courts when she was young, said Copeland. “In her 20s she worked for the Davis County Sheriff’s Office in the jail.”
In 1994 she was elected to the Woods Cross City Council. “She loved that,” he said. “If the streets weren’t plowed or the street lights were out she liked it so much that she could make a couple of phone calls to get that fixed.”
In 1995, Governor Mike Leavitt appointed her to the
ralists work in our other restaurants and create a four-panel mural that we hang on the wall. There’s an individual design element in all of the stores and we use a local artist to create those.”
A cool feature of the building is that it is accessible to Main Street and also the Town Square, said VanArsdell. “It gives easy access to both sides so we can have a pickup window and seating on the east side by Town Square.”
Lucky Slice’s signature is a thin crust like New York style pizza, he said. “We have traditional and unique pizzas. We always have a seasonal menu that rotates twice a year. We also have a monthly special where
Utah House of Representatives to fill the seat left vacant by Karen Smith, who had moved. “She was always involved in the Republican Party. Susan was elected again and again.” She retired from the legislature in 2000.
“Susan was a hard worker, bright and engaged in policy,” said former Utah House Speaker Marty Stephens. “She was the Rules Committee Chair and addressed important legislation. If there were more bills than we could possibly get to, she would sift through and prioritize them. She was a delight to work with.”
She was very proud of her legislative service, said Copeland. “She enjoyed every second of it even if neighbors were telling her not to do this or do that. She knew that was what she signed up for.”
Susan was involved in all 75 House races for two cycles, he said. “She and Bryan Gray would drive up and down the state and spend hours going from candidate to candidate to make sure their campaign ads were the way they wanted it. She worked hard for all of these folks. She wanted them to succeed.”
She co-founded a lobbying group after leaving the legislature, said Copeland. “They focused on education and rebuilding transportation along the Wasatch Front.”
Susan loved being able to serve, he said. “But it was her family that she cared about the most. When I came into her life she had three kids. I had the opportunity to raise the teens to adulthood.”
Susan’s daughter Katy married Charlie Skinner, a North Salt Lake City Police Officer in 2007. He died in 2008 in the line of duty. “They had 3-week-old twins,” Copeland said. “They (Katy and the twins) moved in with us. Susan and I
we get more creative. Some are really out there.”
VanArsdell said they like to showcase the outside culinary world and delve into different food styles. “We have Asian and the southern U.S. right now. Chili, ramen crunch has been a hit. Also the Real Dill pizza. It has garlic with a cream base, mozzarella and dill pickle chips on top. It’s flavorful and delicious.”
They looked at other areas but Bountiful couldn’t be much better, he said. “It’s walkable, bike able and quaint. It makes sense for us. We’re excited to be part of the community and participate in events downtown.” l
got to raise the babies together. It was an amazing, magical time.” Katy passed away in 2024.
At 48, Susan was diagnosed with Triple-negative breast cancer, he said. “The most aggressive form. She went through Chemo and radiation. That gave me an extra 15 years with her – but it just destroys you.”
The cancer came back this year and went into the kidney, said Copeland. “She had one kidney removed but unfortunately she never was able to fully recover from that.”
Her greatest gift was her family, he said. “She cared deeply about their life and success. I miss her profoundly. She made a lasting impact that we’ll be able to keep.”l
Susan Koehn, center right, at the Utah State Capitol. Koehn served as a House Representative from 1995-2000. Koehn passed away in January. Photo courtesy of David Copeland
Good Samaritans honored by Centerville Police Department
helped a suicidal man on the side of the road until help arrived.
By Linda Petersen l.petersen@mycityjournals.com
Twomotorists were recently recognized by the Centerville Police Department for their Sept. 26, 2024 efforts in helping a suicidal man who had crashed his car on I-15 near Parrish Lane.
Lauren Webb of Ogden and Brionna Kosec of Roy were traveling northbound on I-15 at 5:30 a.m. that day when they observed the distressed man who was trying to run into freeway traffic. They had to physically restrain him for about five minutes while waiting for officers to arrive. After Centerville Officer Dalton Groen arrived on the scene they aided him in keeping the man who was still trying to run into traffic safe until other officers arrived.
At an April 1 city council meeting Centerville Police Chief Allen Ackerson showed recorded footage from the incident.
“They see a cloud of dust off to the right. A car had driven off the road and flipped over rolled,” he narrated. “They stopped to help.”
The individual climbed out of his car and was obviously hurt, Ackerson said. “He’s got some type of head injury and is maybe a little manic.”
It quickly became clear to the two women that the man was still intent on suicide, he said. “In fact I think he makes this statement to the effect of ‘My intent is to die today.”
As Kosec and Webb continued to struggle with him the man kept trying to climb over the jersey barrier to run in front of semi trucks on the freeway.
‘This whole time Brionna and Lauren are fighting with him and holding him, physically restraining him,” until Kosec was able to make a call to 911, the chief said.
Even after Groen attempted to restrain the man he continued to fight and “Brionna and Lauren actually had to jump back in and
help again to restrain him” until a Woods Cross officer could get there to help, Ackerson said.
“You can see in the video our citizens here were completely exhausted after fighting with this guy in an attempt to save his life,” Ackerson said.
Once the situation was resolved the case was turned over to the Utah Highway Patrol and officers were able to escort the individual to obtain medical help and to mental health services, Ackerson reported.
When the Centerville Police Department Awards Committee heard about the incident they determined to honor the heroism of the two women who put themselves in danger that day.
“They felt strongly that Lauren and Brionna should be recognized for their heroic actions that day and their selfless actions where they put themselves in danger,” Ackerson said. “To fight with someone on the side of the freeway and someone who’s trying to get into traffic, it’s very humbling to have these people in our city passing through and helping out.”
“We never expected (nor wanted) anything to come out of helping save a man’s life on our own,” Kosec posted April 8 on Facebook about the incident. “We don’t know how we held this manic, dazed, extremely suicidal
Lauren
man back from running into the road, full on wresting him for at least 5 minutes while he lunged at every semi in the closest lane, but we did it and were able to help the officers when they needed it.”
Webb and Kosec were presented with
framed Centerville PD challenge coins, patches and recognition certificates that evening. Mayor Clark Wilkinson thanked the two women.
“Those are stories that are well worth hearing for sure,” he said. l
Brionna Kosec and
Webb received Centerville PD awards for assisting a distressed man in a 2024 incident. They are surrounded by Police Chief Allen Ackerson, at left, and Mayor Clark Wilkinson and members of the city council, at right, at the awards ceremony. Courtesy photo
Comcast RISE to award millions in small business grants
Utah is one of five regions to receive 100 Comcast RISE
business grants.
By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Gettinga small business off the ground, or scaling to the next level, takes more than hustle and passion. It takes resources. A small business grant can be the difference between success and failure, and Comcast is investing in success.
The Comcast RISE program will award comprehensive grant packages to 100 small businesses in Bluffdale, Draper, Herriman, Riverton, Sandy, South Jordan, West Jordan and White City. Through May, Comcast will accept applications from small business owners who are committed to growing their companies, lifting their communities and inspiring the next generation.
“The Comcast RISE program will deliver innovative and impactful resources that will make a lasting impact on small businesses in Utah. Supporting small businesses is crucial for economic development and ensuring that the backbone of our communities can thrive,” said J.D. Keller, senior vice president of Comcast’s Mountain West
Region. “Among the many things we all love about Utah is our vibrant small businesses and Comcast’s commitment to supporting them.”
Each grant includes a technology makeover (with digital services for one year), access to online entrepreneurship courses, coaching sessions, a business assessment and $5,000. Grant recipients will also receive a professionally produced TV commercial and media strategy consultation.
Scott Cuthbertson, president/CEO of the Economic Development Corporation of Utah, said small businesses are the foundation of the state’s economy. More than 90% of companies in Utah are considered small businesses, run by families, friends and neighbors. He said it’s essential that these businesses succeed.
“Comcast is such a valued partner,” Cuthbertson said. “They make critical investments in our infrastructure and we think they’re exemplary about how they invest back into the community, in particular, through this RISE program that provides needed support to our small business owners.”
Andrea Benitez is the fundraising manager at Suazo Business Center, which offers
resources for economically disadvantaged businesses. Through education, workshops, and access to capital, the center has helped launch hundreds of small businesses, generating millions of dollars in revenue.
Benitez’s clients include minority and underserved populations who need direction for creating a business. They might not qualify for a loan or don’t want to go into debt to fund their dreams, so the Comcast RISE program could be a game changer for these struggling entrepreneurs.
“This Comcast grant is just a great opportunity for them to apply and help their business grow,” Benitez said. “We have lots of clients in that part of the valley and we’re going to help them apply for this grant.”
Diana Lopez owns Cakes by Edith, a popular bakery with two locations in the Salt Lake Valley. As a small business owner, she understands the obstacles faced by entrepreneurs and the many hats they have to wear to keep their businesses running.
As Cakes by Edith grows, Lopez hopes to expand to a third location where she can continue to carry on her family’s legacy. She said if she’s awarded the Comcast RISE grant, she’ll use the funds for marketing and equipment.
provide for businesses in the area. For us, honestly, we would love that opportunity.”
The southern end of Salt Lake County has seen significant growth during the last decade and is geared for more expansion. The South Valley Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Salt Lake Community College, offers a 10-week entrepreneurial program to help small business owners find resources for success.
Jay Francis, president/CEO of the South Valley Chamber of Commerce, said small business owners face myriad challenges as they try to get an idea off the ground and that this Comcast RISE program could give them the momentum they need to create something big.
“If a business is fortunate enough to be able to receive one of these grants, I think that’s huge. It’s a real lift and a real boost,” Francis said. “I appreciate Comcast and I think more opportunities need to be afforded to small businesses. This fits in really well with things that we’re focusing on as a Chamber.”
“There are so many trends in the baking industry and we’re trying to stay current with everything in the baking world,” Lopez said. “This opportunity with Comcast would
Utah is one of five regions to receive 100 Comcast RISE small business grants this year. Recipients from Salt Lake, Boston, Grand Rapids, Nashville and Seattle will join the 14,000 entrepreneurs nationwide who have been supported through the program since it launched in 2020. For more information, visit www.ComcastRISE.com. l
Small business owners in Salt Lake County can turn possibility into progress with help from a Comcast RISE grant. (Photo courtesy of Comcast)
Teacher, Teacher
Teachers Care
Teachers work hard. They also make learning fun, listen when students are having problems and sometimes even take care of scraped knees and elbows.
What does your teacher do for you and your classmates?
Board Boo-Boos
Students
Collaborative Counseling — A Way Forward
Life can be incredibly challenging, and there are times when everyone needs a helping hand to navigate through difficult situations. Whether you’re grappling with the aftermath of an unexpected tragedy, struggling with persistent feelings of anxiety or depression, or simply seeking guidance for a new direction in life, a licensed therapist can provide you with the support and tools you need to heal and grow.
Collaborative Counseling in Farmington, Utah, is committed to helping individuals their sense of wellbeing and achieve their mental health goals. Our team of experienced and compassionate therapists offers a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, develop coping mechanisms, and work towards a brighter future.
We understand that each person’s journey is unique, and we tailor our therapeutic approach to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re dealing with grief, trauma, relationship issues, or other challenges, we’re here to help you find your way forward.
Schedule an appointment with one of our experienced providers today and start making real progress towards a happier, healthier you. We offer in-person, virtual, weekend, and evening appointments to accommodate your schedule. You don’t have to face life’s challenges alone – we’re here to support you every step of the way!
NOTICES
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that on the 14th day of May, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. in the Davis County Administration Building at 61 South Main Street, Farmington, Utah 84025, Room 303. The Davis County Controller, Curtis Koch, will offer for sale at public auction and sell to the highest bidder pursuant to the provisions of Section 59-2-1351.1 Utah Code, the following described real property located in Davis County and now delinquent and subject to tax sale. No bid less than the total amount of taxes, penalties, interest and costs which are a charge on the real estate will be accepted.
01-172-0001 Cohen, Robert & Wendy, Property address: 3262 South Davis Blvd, Bountiful, UT.29 acres $12,350.34
02-005-0011 DBFG Properties LLC & Butler, Dail V & Dail & Dail J, Property address: Mountain Side close to Centerville, UT 2.5 acres $719.35
02-005-0014 Nelson, Laura May, Property address: Mountain Side close to Centerville, UT 1.00 acres $346.26
02-005-0015 Nelson, Laura May, Property address: Mountain Side close to Centerville, UT 1.00 acres $346.26
02-005-0018 Nelson, Laura May, Property address: Mountain Side close to Centerville, UT 1.00 acres $346.26
02-005-0019 Nelson, Laura May, Property address: Mountain Side close to Centerville, UT 1.00 acres $346.26
02-005-0023 Merrill, George K & Patricia H, Property address: Mountain Side close to Centerville, UT 1.00 acres
$346.26
02-005-0025 DBFG Properties LLC & Butler, Dail V & Dail & Dail J, Property address: Mountain Side close to Centerville, UT 1.00 acres $346.26
02-035-0121 Grosshans, Lynne, Property address: 261 West Park Lane, Centerville, UT .00 acres $5,841.27
02-049-0034 Tang, Kit Yu, Property address: 88 West 50 South Unit C-10, Centerville, UT .00 acres $8,455.04
02-095-0083 Cityview Pineae Village 227 LP, Property address: Centerville, UT .01 acres $17.87
03-056-0009 Tingey, Rolland C, Property address: 125 East 650 North, Bountiful, UT .21 acres $13,979.65
04-177-0004 KJR LLC, Property address: Bountiful, UT .01 acres $301.33
04-177-0008 KJR LLC, Property address: Bountiful, UT .04 acres $253.74
06-012-0131 jensen, Richard C, Property address: 1950 North 800 West, West Bountiful, UT .01 acres $120.41
09-022-0001 Dorius, Val, Property address: 1475 South 1000 East, Clearfield, UT .373 acres $7,348.13
09-053-0035 Halls, Kenneth C & Susan E, Property address: Layton, UT 1.975 acres
$6,330.30
09-223-0020 Putnam, Daniel, Property address: 2441 North 1675 East, Layton, UT .34 acres $19,293.33
10-092-0034 Rasmussen, Rex & Glenna, Property address: 3 Prows Circle, Layton, UT .23 acres $8,953.46
10-266-0102 Stratus Health Solutions LLC, Property address: 890 West Heritage Park Blvd, #102, Layton, UT .00 acres
$6,215.36
11-189-0531 Looney, Jean Facer & Mark T, Property address: Layton, UT.006 acres
$70.72
12-049-0107 Del 12-049-0150 Craythorne Construction Company Inc., Property address: Syracuse, UT .006 acres
$72.85
12-049-0108 Del 12-049-0148 Craythorne Construction Company Inc., Property address: Syracuse, UT .06 acres
$557.86
12-148-0126 Patterson, Jill & Bob, Property address: 437 West 180 North, Clearfield, UT .12 acres
$9,376.51
14-044-0045 Alonso, Israel & Manuela, Property address: 4118 West 300 North, West Point, UT .815 acres
$13,113.59
14-048-0088 Freideman, Timothy J & Alejandra, Property address: West Point, UT .064 acres $18.49
14-081-0132 De Witt, William F, Property address: 532 North 700 West, Clearfield, UT .19 acres $1,541.66
14-351-0025 Swain, David, Property address: 2013 North 1400 West, Clinton, UT .22 acres $13,485.43
The above amount is representative of the taxes, penalties, and interest through May 14, 2025. It does not include any costs related to the sale such as advertising, mailings or title reports. For a current payoff, please contact the Davis County Treasurer’s office @ 801-451-3243. Payment may be made in the form of personal check or cash.
Once the County Auditor has closed the sale of a particular parcel of property as a result of accepting a bid on the parcel, the successful bidder or purchaser of the property may not unilaterally rescind the bid. The County legislative body, after acceptance of a bid, may enforce the terms of the bid by obtaining a legal judgment against the purchaser in the amount of the bid, plus interest and attorney’s fees. Section 59-2-1351.1
Keep in mind that the sale is a “buyer beware” sale. If you purchase property, you will later be provided with a recorded Tax Deed, which is similar to a Quit Claim Deed. It is your obligation to have researched each property you’re interested in.
4-25, May 5-2, 5-9-2025.
I was born with the fashion sense of a platypus: lots of assorted parts coming together but nothing cohesive, nothing you could call style.
It’s not that I haven’t tried to dress nice. I even did some fashion research and read an article that said I should find clothing that fits my personality to feel confident about my wardrobe. My personality is a cross between a hibernating bear and a librarian, so I guess I should wear furry blankets and mustard cardigans? Done.
The article also said to implement different colors and patterns, and not to be afraid to get out of my comfort zone. But my comfort zone is so comfy. Hence the name.
For a long time, my fashion palette consisted only of black; or gray, if the occasion called for levity. Walking through the grocery store, I was often mistaken for a murder of crows, but that might have been because of all the flapping and squawking.
So, I banned black from my closet, except for 13 black blouses because you never know when you’ll attend a My Chemical Romance concert. Then I decided any new clothes I purchased couldn’t be black. Now my closet is filled with a rainbow of dark navy, charcoal, espresso and eggplant for when I’m feeling whimsical.
Out of Style
Peri Kinder Life and Laughter
The article suggested trying different styles. Trendy boxy tops look adorable on the pages of fashion magazines but turned me into SpongeBob. Maybe I should stop wearing striped socks with squeaky black shoes and white laces.
I just don’t know how to look effortlessly stylish although Vogue breaks it down into 79 manageable steps. I stopped reading after the one step suggested I wear one thing that scares me. Crocs are the most frightening thing I could think of. Nope.
Once, I was working at an event and was given a T-shirt to wear. I threw on a pair of shorts and called it good. My co-worker showed up in her T-shirt matched with cute capris, colorful espadrilles and a rakish beret. I felt like Gollum standing next to her.
If I have to attend any social event, I get fashion paralysis, completely incapable of choosing an outfit. If the event is really fancy, I’ll spend at least 47 days rid-
dled with anxiety about what to wear. My husband says, “Go buy something new,” but that makes it even worse because trying on clothes is a torture device invented during the Spanish Inquisition.
First, the options are overwhelming. Second, what if I choose something too dressy? I don’t want to look like a wedding cake if the event calls for shortbread. Third, I want my clothes to feel comfy, which is the complete opposite of style. No wonder fashion models always look so angry.
The one area in fashion that I do shine is footwear because Chuck Taylors can be worn with anything. Barefoot is also an option I employ from May through October. (By Halloween, the soles of my feet are as tough as a Kevlar and as grungy as a music festival’s porta-potty.)
Oscar Wilde, my style guru, said, “Fashion is a form of ugliness so intolerable that we have to alter it every six months.”
If every fashion trend comes back again, I’ll just stick with what I love: clothes that hide salsa stains and are super soft. Anna Wintour would have some disparaging glances to throw my way but it’s better than my platypus fashion that looks like I just crawled out of a swamp.
