September 2026 | Vol. 6 Iss. 9
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Y O U R C O M M U N I T Y N E W S PA P E R
9/11 dispatcher marks 35 years Cynthia Archbold is passionate about her job Page 16
High School sports begin
A look at the upcoming football and soccer season Page 27
Bountiful High School students cut ribbon on new CTE building By Becky Ginos | becky.g@thecityjournals.com
The focus of CTE is for students to learn marketable skills that could lead to potential careers.
B
OUNTIFUL—Just in time for school to start, students at Bountiful High School filled the halls to tour the new CTE (Career and Technical Education) building located just south of the main school. School officials, board members and students cut the ribbon on the 39,552 square foot, three story building on Aug. 19. Hughes construction was the general contractor and FFKR the architects. “The facility will benefit our community and our graduates and our students for generations to come,” said Bountiful High Principal Brock Jackman. “We’re very, very excited to have this opportunity to be here.” “We are a school district that is focused not only on what’s happening today, but preparing for tomorrow and helping our students be ready for the future,” said School Board Member Joani Stevens. “This is what this career center is all about.”
Stevens said they want students to come here and learn lessons about skills that they might not have experienced before but just get their feet in the water a little bit. “Maybe they find that they learn a marketable skill that will help them as they go through college to pay their way or find their dream career. They may find out this is really not what they want to do. All of that is part of their education.” “I want to thank the taxpayers who approved the bonds and pay the taxes that help the school district build beautiful buildings like this for students to learn and grow,” said CTE Director, Brian Hunt. “This is a building but it’s the teachers that come in and work with the students – that’s what makes the magic happen.” This is a place where students can go and get their first steps, he said. “It’s pretty cool to think that someone who’s going to be a doctor or a nurse is going to take their first medical anatomy or physiology class right here in this building.” “We want to create more opportunities,” SBO President Jude Luekenga, surrounded by students and administrators, cuts the ribbon to
open the Career and Technical Education (CTE) building at Bountiful High School. (Photo by
Continued page 6 Becky Ginos)
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GET TO THE RIVER! ALL SEPTEMBER! Enjoy experiences and make wonderful memories at Utah’s Jordan River Parkway throughout the month of September.
The Get to the River Festival is a month of recreational, cultural, social, educational, and stewardship activities and events. Join us for something familiar, or explore and discover something new. Check the Festival schedule and learn more at:
G e tToT h e R i ve r. o r g Page 2 | September 2026
Dozens of Free Community Events & Activities Throughout the Month Recreation Arts Community Education Stewardship
your watershed
LOVE YOUR WATERSHED Litter, chemicals, and organic material like leaves and pet waste, on our streets, sidewalks, and parking areas, wash into storm drains and then into lakes, streams, and the Jordan River each time it rains and snows, polluting these waterways. Organize a group clean up of the litter and leaves around the streets and storm drains in your neighborhood for the 9/11 National Day of Service & Remembrance. Each month, make a habit to clean up the gutter and storm drains in front of your own home or business.
L o veYo u r Wa t e r s h e d . o r g T he City Journal
Davisjournal.com
September 2026 | Page 3
COMMON GROUND
Property Rights Confuse Me
Common Ground will be a column of rotating viewpoints that highlight specific feelings across the political spectrum, and it will always end with possible ways to come together. Where do I stand on property rights? Simple: if I own it, then I should have absolute control over it. And If I bought it and it is next to your property, I should also have some control over yours. For those who have followed Common Ground, I have left no doubt I lean fairly strong to the right end of the political spectrum. So when writing an opinion piece representing that end of the spectrum with the topic of property rights, I was certain what I’d say. Then last night as I prepared to write this I got confused. I stopped and prayed: Dear God, am I becoming a Democrat? A quick trip to my gun safe confirmed that I am good. But I am still conflicted. I know where I stand on my property rights, not sure where I stand on your property rights. Well, let me be clear, unless your property is near mine, I actually just don’t care about yours. To not look evil I will pretend that I care and that you should have the same property rights as me. To unconfuse myself, I broke down property rights into three categories: the ability to own property, the ability to control property, and property taxes. I see each category, but am conflicted where these fall on the typical right-left spectrum. Is everyone a Republican when it comes to property rights? Or maybe
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John J Walker Common Ground
everyone is a Democrat? I don’t know but I can’t imagine a world where we agree on something. I agree with my dear friends from the left (yes I have a couple) that everyone should have the opportunity to buy and own their home. Home ownership is an important part of the American economy and society. I think we can all agree people should be able to own property (our own homes) and enjoy all the benefits from it, and we can all recognize that property rights are protected by the Constitution. So once you own it, what control do you have? Enter Jekyll or Hyde, I am not sure. On one hand, I want full control of my property. On the other hand, I want control of my neighbor’s property. Not full control but enough control to protect my property, property value and property rights. If I want to build a second story to my house and add a man cave garage in the backyard, hand me a hammer and shut your mouth; it’s my property. But if my neighbor wants to build an apartment on his lot, whoa whoa whoa. If my neighbor wants to
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have 14 people live in his 3-bedroom house and each of them park a car on the front lawn, no way, not in my backyard and not in your front yard. Enter local zoning. WWII veterans should be the most respected people in America. Just behind them should be planning and zoning staff and volunteers. For now, my stance is that I should control my property and I should be able to do whatever I want to do with it. And I should also control your property so that it does not impact me and my property. Until you come up with a better plan, this is my plan. My first consideration concerning property taxes is back to property ownership. I question – do we really own property if we are required to pay forever to retain that ownership? When I go to the grocery store and buy a peach, I don’t have to pay for that peach the rest of my life. But when I buy a home, all of a sudden I have to pay property taxes for the rest of my life. Technically, I “own” my home in Bountiful, but I often say I “lease” it from Davis School District and Davis County. Our governor and state legislators in recent years have stated they want homes more affordable, but they have sat mostly idle while school districts, counties, and special districts have increased property taxes – making homes even more unaffordable.
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Our Republican-led legislature and governor have provided taxpayer money to help subsidize the purchase of homes. I am sure this feels good for them. I guess on some baseline it should feel good; they are helping people live the American dream. But they are taking money from all taxpayers to give to a select few. It is clear to me that we must allow the housing market to operate in a fair and open market. As per taxes – property taxes make sense; there is a need for the government to provide amenities (roads, sidewalks, water, utilities, etc.) to homeowners that are associated with homeownership. These are expenses that I require and the value of my property is dependent on. A home that doesn’t have water or access is ultimately worthless. But remind me why we cover schools with property taxes. Don’t get me wrong, we should fund schools so our children get the best education possible. In Utah, that should come from income tax. Our legislation has lowered income tax every year but they did not change the spending with school districts so where does that “savings” come from? It comes from property taxes – your income tax goes down and your property taxes go up. A game of political whack-a-mole: slash-a-tax.
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September 2026 | Page 5
Congressman Blake Moore talks Trump Accounts – benefit to families and businesses Moore sponsored the bill that went into effect July 4, 2026. The new initiative starts every child in the next four years with a $1,000 investment account.
This is essentially an opportunity for any child under 18 to start an IRA, said Moore. “Babies born in 2025 through the next few years will benefit from the $1,000 seed funded account from the Treasury and that starts them on a sort of fiscal future that is different from what we currently have.” It’s basically like a my529 program, he said. “It’s still an awesome program and should definitely be utilized too. But this one is a little more geared toward longer term growth and I believe should be used as a way to hedge against some otherwise failing retirement programs.” Moore was the lead sponsor of the bill in the House of Representatives. “I introduced the bill and was working with an individual from Silicon Valley that sort of led the Invest America Initiative,” he said. “He was kind of working on the outside getting the CEO council together, pushing the White House toward this direction and I was leading the legislation in the House and on the Ways and Means Committee and we got it passed.”
It was live as of July 4 of this last year on the 250th celebration, said Moore. “We’ve initiated this program and so every baby whose parents will sign up will be seeded with $1,000. Plus the neatest thing about it is there’s philanthropy coming in big time.” People like Michael and Susan Dell are contributing over $6 billion to this initiative to start accounts for children ages 2 – 10 because they will have missed out on the next four years of accounts, he said. “The business community can also get involved,” he said. “If your company engages with this program, signs the pledge you can contribute up to $2,500 for an employee’s Trump Account. Now if that family has one child that’s $2,500. If that family has five children, it’s $500 a child. It’s $2,500 total and they’ll get a tax deferred tax advantage account from their side.” Then the employee can also take advantage of up to $2,500, Moore said. “It operates more like a traditional IRA. That’s the tax advantage to it. It’s just a great benefit for companies to be able to start offering their employees.” Hopefully it grows and becomes more ubiquitous, he said. “Think about it, the treasury is involved, philanthropies are involved, private sectors are involved and all of a sudden we’re going to have millions and millions of kids that are now going to have a 30 year head start on saving for retirement because you don’t typically start an IRA or a 401K or anything until you’re 28, 29, 30 years old.” Say parents were able to put in $1,000 in each year for their child, over 18 years there’s $19,000 put into that account, said Moore. “It will have grown 7% to 10%, whatever the S&P is pretty much doing. At that point it could be $40,000 who knows?” It can be directly transferred into a traditional IRA for that child and they can use a little bit of it for some schooling or co-op it with their my529, he said. “But for the most part, you’re just going to watch it grow over their life.” Families can register at https://trumpaccounts.gov/. l
who are going to be the dreamers.” Linford said they encourage students to come in and to work hard. “Dream big. See yourself in these spaces. Work hard, figure out what you can become in this space. We want your dreams to come true.” “We’re so grateful to have this new tech center at our school,” said SBO President Jude Luekenga. “Not only does it benefit the students and teachers in our community, at our school, but also people from around the district. Students can
come from other schools to partake in our amazing classes that we have facilitated at our school, to be able to learn and grow at such a high level.” Luekenga said he plans to take some classes in the CTE program. “I’m taking entrepreneurship and AP music theory. I’ve got high hopes for the future. I know all of us have a bright future if we just put our minds to it and start now and put the work in because we have all these great resources. I love that we can take advantage of them.” l
By Becky Ginos becky.g@thecityjournals.com
D
AVIS COUNTY—Congressman Blake Moore dropped by recently to the Davis Chamber of Commerce Board of Governors meeting and shared some of the bills he’s been working on that could have an impact on businesses in Davis County. Moore mostly focused on the child investment accounts or Invest America Initiative, Trump Accounts. He explained the nuts and bolts of how they work, why they matter and how companies, small businesses and larger businesses can get involved with the initiative. “There’s some tax advantage elements to it for a company,” said Moore. “If they’re willing to sign up to make this part of their offering the employee can also take some advantage of a tax deferred nature to these accounts.” When people hear about Trump Accounts they think a child gets a $1,000 investment account to start their life, he said. “That’s a cool thing and we’re celebrating and it’s an individual family concept but it’s really not.” One of the most successful elements of this initiative, the Invest America Initiative, has been the CEO council that has started to engage and been a big part of this initiative, Moore said. “There’s a lot that can be done in supporting this next generation of growth, investment growth in these kids through our interaction with our employers.” Last year, in July 2025, Congress passed the working family’s tax cuts A.K.A. the One Big Beautiful Bill, he said. “We passed that bill and part of that bill was this new initiative to start every child in the next four years with a $1,000 investment account. That’s the Invest America Initiative.” Continued from front page said Superintendent Dr. Dan Linford. “You’ll come into this space and say ‘this looks like an industry level – in some spaces ahead of industry level – space.’ That’s what our students deserve.” Shout out to the people who will keep this place alive, he said. “The teachers who will go into these spaces and do excellent work with students and work with young people
Congressman Blake Moore reads a plaque at the Hill Aerospace Museum. Moore has done a lot of work in Washington to fund projects at Hill Air Force Base. (Courtesy/Office of Blake Moore)
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Page 6 | September 2026
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September 2026 | Page 7
Northern Utah’s water shift begins in backyards
The conversation surrounding water is shifting from whether conservation is necessary to how communities will achieve it. As cities update ordinances, providers expand metering and homeowners rethink landscaping and irrigation, the cumulative effect of those individual decisions may determine Utah’s water future. By Cindi Mansell c.mansell@mycityjournals.com
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or South Weber residents Bob and Lori Anderson, conserving water meant changing the way their yard looked. In 2023, after learning about the “Flip Your Strip” rebate program, the couple removed the grass from their park strip and replaced it with trees, river rock and drought-tolerant plants. “We spent about twice the amount of the rebate,” Bob Anderson said, estimating the project cost about $750. “We probably would have done it anyway. It uses less water and looks better than grass ever did.” The Andersons estimate their new landscaping uses about half the water their grass needed. Their experience is part of a growing shift in northern Utah as drought conditions continue. Homeowners are watering less, replacing traditional lawns, repairing leaks and paying closer attention to how much water they use. At the Weber Basin Water Conservancy District (WBWCD), the change is showing up in water-use numbers and the number of residents seeking help to replace their lawns. Darren Hess, WBWCD assistant general manager and chief operating officer, said overall homeowner outdoor water use is down about 10% compared with the same time last year. “We know conservation is happening,” Hess said. The 10% decline in homeowner outdoor use comes at the same time as Weber Basin reduced wholesale irrigation deliveries by 20% this year. This 20% correlates with a savings of 47,000-acre feet of water, Hess said. Weber Basin uses its drought contingency plan to decide how much water use should be reduced. The district estimates reservoir storage levels and then uses the plan to figure out the reduction. “We estimate what our June 1 storage will be in all of our reservoirs and then we go to our drought contingency plan. There is a chart in the plan that tells us how much we should cut contracts.” This year, Weber Basin is in the plan’s moderate drought category. Based on that classification, the district reduced wholesale irrigation deliveries by 20%, delayed the start of the 2026 secondary irrigation season until mid-May and plans to end the season earlier than usual. Secondary water is untreated water used for outdoor irrigation and landscaping. Weber Basin provides water to more than 700,000 residents across Davis, Weber, Morgan, Summit and Box Elder counties and supplies roughly half of the total drinking water demand in Davis and Weber counties. “The water is saved in the reservoirs for next year,” Hess said. “We hope to save enough water in the reservoirs to at least have drinking water supply saved for next year.” The district is also seeing more residents remove grass altogether. Weber Basin did not set a specific rebate goal this year, but by mid-summer, the district had received 946 rebate applications, roughly twice the number received at the same point last year, Hess said. The programs help homeowners replace traditional lawns with lower-water landscapes, improved irrigation systems and reduced outdoor water use. “The district has opened the rebate programs to all communities regardless of water-wise, drought-tolerant or landscaping requirements they have adopted,” said Jon Parry,
Page 8 | September 2026
Bob and Lori Anderson stand on their park strip in South Weber. The couple replaced the grass with drought-tolerant plants in an effort to conserve water.
Tammy Custer and her husband spent more than three years removing grass from their 0.44-acre property because they felt they were using too much water. (Photos by Cindi Mansell)
who oversees conservation programs at WBWCD. Communities that have adopted qualifying landscape standards can receive rebates of up to $2.50 per square foot, while others are eligible for up to $1.25. Hess said the district has budgeted $3 million this year for water conservation projects and has continued to ramp up that number over the past few years. Year-to-date, they have spent $1.8 million of that funding for various conservation programs. For South Weber resident Tammy Custer, reducing water use meant eliminating most of her lawn without using a rebate. Custer and her husband spent more than three years removing grass from their 0.44-acre property because they felt they were using too much water. “We didn’t want to take the time and bother with conservation programs and rebates,” Custer said. The property was once almost entirely grass. Now, it consists primarily of trees, rocks and a few plants that require watering. Custer said her husband did much of the work himself, making repeated trips with a wheelbarrow to move rocks. The result is a yard that uses far less water and one that Custer said is beautiful enough to host her son’s upcoming wedding reception. South Weber resident Michelle DeLong Rasmussen took a different approach. When she and her family built their home more than a year ago, she spent months researching types of drought-tolerant, high-traffic lawns before choosing Tahoma 31, a drought-tolerant variety of sod. Rasmussen said she was surprised by how little guidance is available to homeowners building new homes. “Because it was a new build, nobody on the city, county or state level cares what you do,” she said. “But if you already have a lawn and have been wasting water for years, there are rebates available to take out existing grass and put in exactly what I started with.” Rasmussen said she is happy with her lawn, despite its higher upfront cost, but believes water-wise landscaping should be encouraged before new homes are built. “Our state should be doing everything they can to promote water-wise lawns and landscaping to new homeowners and developers so that the problem is corrected from the start,” she said.
Not everyone believes homeowners should carry the responsibility for conservation alone. One resident who did not want to be quoted told the newspaper that until state and local governments address new development and require water-wise landscaping, she does not plan to change her approach. “My lawn will continue to be green,” she said. Hess said technology and personal responsibility will also play a role in Utah’s water future. The expansion of secondary water meters allows homeowners to track their consumption, identify leaks and monitor individual water allocations. “I think the best thing for conservation is to tell people how much water they should be using and then measure their water use,” Hess said. Hess said some areas are using substantially less water than they did last year, while others continue to use their full allocations. “There are many areas that are down 50% or even 70% this year,” Hess said. “We also have those being shut off because they have used their 80% contract.” Officials encourage homeowners to repair leaks, adjust irrigation schedules and apply only as much water as plants need. Most Utah lawns require about 1 to 1½ inches of water each week during the hottest part of summer. Beginning in 2030, Utah law will require irrigation companies to bill customers based on actual water use rather than flat rates. Travis Padilla, executive director of Grow the Flow Utah, said pricing could encourage further conservation. “Water in a desert is not endless,” Padilla said. “When prices reflect the true value of water, conservation follows.” Cindi Mansell has been covering City Government for the Davis Journal since 2021. She sits on the South Weber Water Improvement District Board. Editor’s note: This article is published through the Great Salt Lake Collaborative with funding from Love the Lake, an initiative of the nonprofit Great Salt Lake Alliance. Editorial decisions are made independently by the collaborative and partner newsrooms. l
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Bus service critical to keeping Davis School District rolling
Some buses are servicing two routes at a school due to labor shortages and have to do a double back picking up a group of students early then going back and picking up a second group. By Becky Ginos becky.g@thecityjournals.com
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ARMINGTON—As a new school year starts, kids will be piling on buses to get there. The Davis School District transportation department is ready for the monumental task of transporting 21,000 students with a fleet of 241 buses – but they can always use more drivers. “We’re always hiring,” said Jake Heidrich, Transportation director during a presentation to the school board on Aug. 18. “We’re constantly training – we never stop.” Retention in transportation is hard, he said. “It’s hard sometimes to keep employees and it isn’t because they don’t want to work for Davis School District or work for transportation.” “This is the transportation job we offer folks,” said Tim Leffel, Business Administrator and Assistant Superintendent. “You get to work two and a half hours to three hours in the morning, take a five hour break, come back, work two and a half to three hours in the afternoon. Drive through snow, drive through rain, oh and by the way you might
Page 10 | September 2026
Buses are lined up at the transportation center by Farmington High School. District buses drive 2.5 million miles annually. (Photo by Becky Ginos)
get benefits this year but there’s no guarantee so next year you might not have benefits and we’d like you to stay around, right?” So that’s the challenge, he said. “No other job in our district is like that. We have drivers that are on the route and then they lose students on a route and their hours go down and now I don’t have benefits anymore.” Leffel said he thinks part of the reason the ones that they get and they stay it’s their love for children. “They love the kids. If you ask any driver ‘what is your favorite part about the job?’ It’s the kids.” So the word double back has been thrown around a lot, Heidrich told the board.
“We hear that term so this is as best as I can describe it. Some buses in Davis School District are servicing two routes at a school due to labor shortages.” A double back happens because there are not enough drivers pure and simple, he said. “If we had enough drivers to cover the routes, we wouldn’t need to do double backs but when we’re low on drivers we have to double up.” Since arriving late to school is not an option, Heidrich said they are scheduling one route to arrive early enough to get the second route to school on time. “The reverse is then true on the homebound trip.”
The students who arrive at school first will be the first to arrive home, while the second group will remain at school and await the return of the bus for their trip home, he said. “The target arrival time at a junior high school is 8 a.m.” Early drop off buses arrive between 7:35 and 7:40, said Heidrich. “Not ideal but that’s where we’re at. It means students will be at school about 20 minutes earlier than typical junior high bus time.” Principals at those schools have been understanding, he said. “We cooperate with them, we collaborate with them. They’re great partners in planning for this contingency program.” That explains a little bit why there are double backs, Heidrich said. “The more drivers we get, the less double backs we have to do.” Transportation is restructuring internally to try and improve retention, he said. “We’re letting drivers bid for a block of time based on seniority.” Heidrich said they’re also equipping bus drivers with tablets. “They improve route accuracy, turn-by-turn navigation, easier route coverage and reduced stress for new and substitute drivers.” They are using a phased approach, he said. “In the spring of 2026 we piloted 50 tablets on special education routes. In May 2026 we had 89 additional tablets and 105 additional tablets in July. The plan is to have a full fleet deployment of 244 tablets installed by January 2027.” Heidrich said the feedback they’re hearing from the drivers is positive. “So far anybody who is using them is saying ‘when do I get mine?’ So we’re moving rapidly. That’s why we decided against buying another bus that we didn’t need. We needed the tablets. We thought that it’s going to serve our students, our families and our drivers a lot better.” Their goal is serving children, he said. “We’re transporting the most precious cargo.” l
T he City Journal
Residents voice concerns at Truth in Taxation hearing
Woods Cross City residents attended the Truth in Taxation public hearing to share their final comments on the proposed increase in city property tax. By Rebekah Bowman r.bowman@davisjournal.com
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OODS CROSS—The Aug. 4 Truth in Taxation public hearing at Woods Cross City Hall ran late into the night. The room was filled with residents who had come to share their thoughts with the council. The range of perspectives provided important questions and concerns – whether the residents were in favor, not in favor, or somewhere in between on the question of increasing the city property tax. One of the primary reasons for a new city hall is the police department, which needs more space and safer conditions that abide by regulations. The residents agreed that the police department needs more space, but many asked if a separate police building could be built for that. Councilmember Julie Checketts clarified that even if they built a separate building for the police, the current city hall would still need to be replaced and it would cost more to build two buildings. The administrative staff also work closely with the police and need to
The room was filled with residents who had come to share their thoughts. (Photo by Rebekah Bowman)
be in the same building. Most of the residents did not want to see Hogan Park change. Parents said that their children love the park the way it is, and many said that more amenities would be unnecessary and expensive. The residents expressed their love for the green space and big trees of Hogan Park, some of which would be lost in the construction. “The trees are diseased and would need to come down regardless,” said resident Cole Checketts, husband of Councilmember Checketts. He wished the council would have communicated that. Councilmember Checketts
later said the idea of saving the wood from the original trees to use in the new city hall would “carry on the honor of those trees that have shaded so many generations of families.” Only the diseased trees would be removed. Residents shared their confusion about both the inconsistent data presented by the council and the lack of communication that had taken place during this whole process, which left many residents in the dark. Multiple residents asked the council to communicate better in the future and provide clearer data free of errors. Councilmember Checketts acknowledged that the council needed to communicate
better and pay better attention to data. As the time to make a decision approached, some of the council members asked if the project could be split as many residents had suggested – the new city hall one year, the park the next. City Administrator Bryce Haderlie said one bond could not be split, and that taking out two bonds in order to do this would be more expensive because of fees. He urged the council to make a decision, because the new budget had to be approved before the end of August. Other decisions could be made down the road to spend less on changing the park, and the council intends to spend as little as they can. Councilmember Rachel Peterson said she did not want to raise the taxes, but that “the longer we avoid doing this, the more it’s going to hurt us.” She was fervent as she spoke of building the future of the city for generations to come. Mayor Ryan Westergard expressed his empathy for residents who are worried that they cannot afford the increased taxes. “I know what it’s like for money to be tight. I’ve been there,” he said. “We’re your neighbors. What we do applies to you and applies to us the same way. I have been hesitant to raise taxes. But the longer we put this off, the more expensive and detrimental it will be to the city.” The motion to adopt the proposed budget for the 2027 fiscal year passed. l
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Davisjournal.com
September 2026 | Page 11
Fruit Heights Council tables two rezoning proposals amid growth concerns
As Fruit Heights considers new development, residents are asking a larger question: Is the city ready for the growth being proposed? By Cindi Mansell c.mansell@mycityjournals.com
A
packed Fruit Heights City Council meeting recently put questions about growth, infrastructure and the future direction of the city at the center of debate as residents spoke against two proposed rezonings. Because the proposed density is not allowed under the current zoning, both projects require approval from the City Council. The two properties (each less than an acre), would allow significantly higher-density residential development than their current zoning permits. At 1207 S. Main Street, just north of Cherry Hill, the property is currently partially zoned commercial. The proposal is for a four-story, 24-unit apartment building. At 1112 S. Lloyd Road, the former Rock Shop property, the land is currently zoned commercial. The proposal is for 20 three-story town homes, each with a two-car garage. During more than 30 minutes of public comment, residents questioned whether the developments fit the city’s existing Master Plan and whether Fruit Heights has the infrastructure and services needed to accommodate additional density. Fruit Heights resident Matt Benson said he attended the Planning Commission meeting on the proposals but felt residents’ concerns were not adequately heard. Benson questioned whether existing infrastructure
A rendering of the proposed townhome development. Residents expressed concerns about the proposed development at a recent City Council meeting. (Courtesy/Fruit Heights City)
could support three- and four-story development, pointing to concerns about fire hydrants, water, traffic and law enforcement capacity. He also questioned whether rezoning should occur while the city is reconsidering its General Plan. “If they cannot get the adjacent trails right because of the General Plan, the property should not be rezoned at this time,” Benson said. Byron Foster, a civil engineer by profession, said he is not opposed to growth but believes potential problems should be addressed before development occurs. Foster questioned whether roads, storm drainage and other infrastructure have sufficient capacity for higher-density development and asked the city to make any related studies publicly available. “Have the city consider whether the appropriate studies have been done,” Foster said. Douglas Wheelwright, a land-use planner
who lives in Farmington, said he had been retained to speak on behalf of several Fruit Heights residents. Wheelwright pointed to the city’s 2003 Master Plan, noting that while there appears to be dissatisfaction with the plan, it remains in effect until it is formally replaced or modified. “Until that plan is replaced or modified, it is in effect and you are bound by it,” Wheelwright said. He argued that the proposed rezonings are inconsistent with the existing plan and said residents need predictability when making housing and investment decisions. Local realtor Amanda Howell also questioned whether state housing policies require Fruit Heights to approve the proposed rezonings. Howell said the city should instead ask how individual developments benefit the community and establish clear objectives and standards before approving additional zoning changes. “It’s not about housing, it’s about governance,”
Howell said. “Once zoning changes, entitlement changes with the land.” After hearing public comments, the council discussed potential tax revenue, neighborhood impacts and other concerns. Both developers were given an opportunity to comment. Rather than approve or deny either proposal, the council tabled both rezonings and directed city staff and developers to continue working on issues raised during the meeting, including density, height, setbacks, parking and whether the projects should meet Mandatory Inclusionary Housing (MIH) requirements. The MIH requirements apply to certain private developments in rezoned medium- and high-density areas and require a portion of new residential floor area to be permanently designated as income-restricted, affordable housing. The council’s decision is not a final ruling on either project, but it allows the developers and city staff to address concerns raised by residents before the proposals return to the council. At the same meeting, the council also approved moving forward with a rewrite of the city’s General Plan, a process expected to take up to a year. The General Plan rewrite will help shape land-use and development decisions for years to come, and council members said residents will have opportunities to participate. The two rezonings now remain on hold as Fruit Heights considers not only the individual projects, but the larger question of how and where the city should grow – and whether its planning and infrastructure are ready for that growth. l
Davis Chamber announces 2026 Business Awards Finalists The event celebrates local businesses and rising stars in the industry.
Rising Star Recipients this year:
Business of the Year Finalists Fat Cats, Clinton Pack Tax Valley Glass
Small Business of the Year Finalists Backyard Bookkeeper Breezy Babies Simply Organized by Denise
Employer of the Year Finalists Boondocks Solidify Web True Pros
Business Innovation Award Finalists BAE Systems Secturion Systems Surv7xLLC
Page 12 | September 2026
Community Impact Award Finalists Bank of Utah John Volken Academy Young Caring for Our Young
Racer McAtee – Oz Marketing Though under 27 years old, Racer McAtee has already developed a reputation as one of the most accomplished professionals in his field. A marketing manager for Young Automotive, he’s developed significant campaigns, generated millions in revenue for his clients and placed on Powersports Business Magazine’s 40 Under 40 list. Kelsey McFarland – Boondocks Kelsey is a dedicated Dining and Events Manager whose impact reaches far beyond her role. While courageously battling breast cancer, she tirelessly supports families, military members, schools, and Make-A-Wish children – ensuring every guest feels celebrated. Her resilience, compassion, and commitment to excellence embody true leadership and Rising Star character. Andrea West – Andrea West Design Andrea West, founder of Andrea West
Design, leads a respected and profitable full-service interior design firm based in Kaysville. Known for creating beautifully designed homes and communities across Utah and the United States, she delivers a refined white-glove luxury experience grounded in creativity, quality, and exceptional client service. Katie Wood – Grandview for Good In the last year, Katie Wood was crowned Mrs. Utah American, using her platform and MSW studies to champion grief awareness and mental health advocacy. Through countless volunteer hours, leadership, fundraising, and community outreach, she has connected Utah families with critical support resources and will represent Utah nationally at Mrs. American this September. Katie also works in asset management with The Northwood Group. For more information go to davischamberofcommerce.com l
T he City Journal
Davis 50 Health Challenge
Davis 50 Community Health Challenge: Get Healthy, Celebrate 50 Years of Healing in our Community
AT HOLY CROSS HOSPITAL – DAVIS
were not just celebrating a golden anniversary this fall; we’re kickstarting a healthier future for the entire community. As they hit their 50-year mark, the hospital is launching an inspiring Davis 50 Community Health Challenge, a 50day adventure designed to empower everyone to embrace a more vibrant lifestyle. Why it matters: In an era where health often feels complex, this challenge simplifies it. It’s built on the understanding that many powerful health solutions are simple, accessible, and right within our grasp. This initiative aims to change the narrative from daunting health resolutions to joyful daily habits, demonstrating that true wellness is an ongoing journey, not just a destination. How it works: Your personal health journey officially begins on September 19th. • Your Commitment: For 50 consecutive days, you’ll commit to making at least one positive, healthy choice daily. • Earn Points: You’ll accumulate points for impactful habits that contribute directly to your well-being. Think:
» Lacing up for a satisfying 10,000 steps. » Fueling your body with five colorful servings of fruits and vegetables. » Sipping your way to 8 glasses of water. » De-stressing with mindful breathing exercises. » Reconnecting by spending time outdoors. • Stay Accountable: Throughout the challenge, you’ll receive weekly email prompts, making it easy to report your earned points and stay motivated. The Rewards: To celebrate your dedication and progress: • Everyone Wins: Every participant receives a free commemorative T-shirt, a symbol of your commitment to personal health. • Go The Extra Mile: For those who truly excel, the top point-earners in each age category will be awarded a special commemorative medal, marking their outstanding achievement. Kyle Brostrom, President of Holy Cross Hospital – Davis, shared his vision for the challenge. “For five decades, Davis Hospital has been a bedrock of health and healing for
North Utah,” Brostrom emphasized. “What better way to mark this incredible milestone and embody our vision of ‘a healthier future for all’ than by encouraging our community to invest in their most valuable asset – their own health? We’re reaching out to all our friends and neighbors, eagerly anticipating their participation in this transformative challenge.” Brostrom also highlighted the power of everyday choices, noting, “While our hospital boasts cutting-edge technology and lifesaving medications, some of the most potent healthcare tools are right at your fingertips – a trusty pair of running shoes, nourishing snacks, or a quiet spot for meditation. This challenge is a powerful reminder for all of us to prioritize selfcare and embrace a more vibrant existence.” The bottom line: This isn’t just about fitness; it’s about fostering a healthier, happier community as Holy Cross Hospital – Davis honors its past by building a stronger future. Don’t miss out! Sign up now and start your 50-day journey to a healthier you! https://www.mountain.commonspirit.org/ Davis50 SPONSORED CONTENT
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A lot can change in 50 years – including healthcare. At CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – Davis, we’re evolving to meet the needs of our growing community with new investments in technology, facilities, clinical excellence, and patient care. Because caring for our community means continuing to raise the standard for what healthcare can be. Scan the QR code to learn more about how we’re celebrating 50 years of progress and possibility.
CommonSpirit Health Mountain Region does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, religion, creed, ancestry, sexual orientation, and marital status in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment. For further information about this policy contact CommonSpirit Health Mountain Region Office of the General Counsel at 1-303-643-1000 (TTY: 711). Copyright © CommonSpirit Health Mountain Region, 2026. ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-303-643-1000 (TTY: 711). CHÚ Ý: Nếu bạn nói Tiếng Việt, có các dịch vụ hỗ trợ ngôn ngữ miễn phí dành cho bạn. Gọi số 1-303-643-1000 (TTY: 711).
Davisjournal.com
September 2026 | Page 13
License plate readers – public safety or privacy Intrusion?
The Davis County Sheriff says the license plate readers are great tools and have helped solve homicide cases and recover kidnapped children. By Becky Ginos becky.g@thecityjournals.com
D
AVIS COUNTY—There’s been some concern over the use of Automatic License Plate Recognition (ALPR) systems and whether it promotes public safety or if it violates privacy. The subject came up at the Aug. 11 commission meeting with a consent item from the Davis County Sheriff’s Office asking for “Approval of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Davis County and the Utah Department of Public Safety for Automatic License Plate Recognition Sharing Governmental Entities for Sharing Information for Law Enforcement Purposes.” Several residents spoke during the public comment period asking the commission not to approve it. “As you know the issue of license plate readers has the public really riled up,” said Bountiful resident Ron Mortensen. “There’s been a lot of discussion going on on social media and other places and the anger continues to grow about these.” Like the MIDA Box Elder data center fiasco, license plate readers unite Utah from
Law enforcement says the ALPR system protects public safety but some residents think it violates their civil rights. (AI generated image)
all sides of the political spectrum, he said. “It ranges from the conservatives all the way to the socialists, libertarians and everybody else who does not like these license plate readers. I encourage you to defer action on this today for a number of reasons.” First of all, Mortensen said, the commission doesn’t want to get caught in the middle of this rapidly growing controversy. “Second of all, the Utah State Privacy Commission is currently completing a study on license plate readers and it should have its recommendations
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out by the end of September.” During the next legislative session Rep. Kristen Chevrler will be running a bill on license plate readers and how the data collected is used, said Mortensen. “You probably shouldn’t sign the MOU until you tell the public who owns the information collected by the license plate reader cameras and where all the cameras are in Davis County and where the data is stored.” “I’m not asking you to reject this outright,” said a Kaysville woman. “I’m asking you to pause, to tighten the terms and hold it to the standards that Utah law already requires. My biggest complaint as a citizen is that there is a large group of citizens that are severely affronted by the cameras – period. So if we want to respect our citizens, we may want to reconsider.” “There is nothing more important to me as Sheriff or the Sheriff’s Office than protecting the civil rights of our citizens,” said Davis County Sheriff Kelly Sparks. “That includes protecting them from intrusion by state, national or county government but it also includes protecting them from intrusion by bad actors.” What it does is simply control the access and use of that information that is already being gathered, he said. “This is an important time for us to do that. No doubt that this is a
controversial issue, no doubt that it’s out in the public and it’s gaining a lot of attention. I’m sure that we will have additional movement, both nationally and locally.” There has been legislation for at least the last four or five years on this issue, said Sparks. “What this MOU does is it restricts the use and access of that information, purely for public safety, important public safety issues.” These license plate readers can be a great tool, he said. “We have solved homicide cases, we have recovered kidnapped children. What we need to be able to do is make sure that we’re using that valuable information in a very restrictive and important way to protect safeguards, all the rights of our citizens. That’s really what this MOU does.” Sparks said they have some license plate reader cameras available. “We don’t have any deployed statically in the county right now. But we do have them available for use in specific situations if we need them for that use.” Sparks urged the commission to approve the MOU. “It is an important safeguard and I think the people of the county need to know what we are doing to safeguard the information that is already out there.” “It’s not that we don’t want to have security,” said another resident. “But what are we willing to give up for security? We know there are things that are going on where it is being misused. I appreciate what Kelly Sparks said. It helps me understand it a little more. But I do think it’s putting the nose under the tent because we get started with something like this and then where can it go?” It’s an important topic for the public, for the county, said Commissioner Lorene Kamalu. “I’ve certainly learned quite a bit with this coming on the agenda and learning a lot more detail. What stands out to me, and has been explained by our own Sheriff and Chief Deputy, is that this MOU is actually protective, that the memorandum restricts use of the data, that it is actually a safeguard and that’s a big deal.” The commission approved the MOU 2-1 with Commissioner John Crofts voting “nay” so that he could look at it more carefully because he was concerned about civil rights. l
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After 35 Years, 911 dispatcher still answering the call
Cynthia Archbold answered an ad for a dispatcher position when she was young and realized it was the career for her. By Becky Ginos becky.g@thecityjournals.com
F
ARMINGTON—Working as a 911 dispatcher is a tough job. Cynthia Archbold has been doing it for 35 years and has no plans to quit anytime soon. Archbold is the Assistant Center Manager for the Davis County Communication Division. When she got her first job in Wyoming, she knew this was the career for her. “My mother saw an advertisement in the paper in my hometown in Wyoming and encouraged me to apply for it even though I had really no idea what it was,” said Archbold. “I ended up getting the position and I worked there for about a year and a half.” Archbold said she wanted to work for a larger agency once she realized how much she loved it. “It was a very small agency in Wyoming where I grew up so I decided to move to Utah, I had family here and then I just kept going.” Helping people was what really drew her to the profession, she said. “I realized I was helping the people that were contacting us that
truly needed some help at that exact moment.” Whether it was life threatening or not it was something that was extremely important to them at that moment, said Archbold. “I realized that I was very skilled at keeping calm and providing whatever resources they might need for that specific incident.” It really was just a surprise, she said. “I did not know before working in that field that this was something I was going to be good at. But it was something that I realized in that first couple of years of work that I truly enjoyed being the person that could stay calm and assist them with whatever they needed.” Most of the time the dispatcher doesn’t know the end result of the 911 call, Archbold said. “It’s not something that’s usually provided to us. Usually we will reach out to the fire department or EMS just to find out what happened. Just so we can close it out in our own heads.” Sometimes leaving that door open can cause problems later on, she said. “It’s nice when agencies help us with that when they allow us to kind of work through the end of the call since we usually begin them, but we don’t end them. So it’s nice when the agencies allow us that closure.” Archbold deals with some difficult situations as a dispatcher and the weight can be heavy. “It’s really something that you get better at overtime,” she said. “You really need to
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Cynthia Archbold (center) and dispatchers Jacy Diehl and Tanna Dyer hold rescued baby ducks. Archbold is the Assistant Center Manager for the Davis County Communication Division. (Courtesy photo)
leave the calls at work. Once the phone call is ended you cannot do anything more with the initial call. It’s over. You did the best you could. You provided the resources that that caller needed. You cannot let it just replay over and over in your head. It does no good at all.” Archbold said she tries to leave it at work and not bring it home to her family, her children and husband. “That’s what I try to do. I always tell people I have forgotten way more calls than I remember and that is on purpose.” Although she has tried to forget many of the 911 calls Archbold said she remembers one in particular that had a good outcome. “It was about a young boy, probably around six. His mother had taken his older siblings to school and had left him alone in the home just for a few minutes and unfortunately he started to play with some matches in his closet.” He started a fire and went to hide under the bed because that’s what he did when he got scared, said Archbold. “He called and said ‘there’s a fire in my closet.’ I thought he said there’s a spider in my closet which for a
6-year-old would be a very big deal.” He finally repeated himself and Archbold said then she understood what he meant. “I firmly told him to get out of the house. I was told later by his mother that when he got in trouble he always hid under the bed and stayed under there for quite a while.” If he had stayed under the bed it would not have been a good outcome, she said. “But I was able to get him to get out of the house. Unfortunately, when the mom returned the home was on fire but the child had gotten out of the home.” It’s been a very rewarding career, said Archbold. “Not only helping people that call in but also the officers and the fire units and EMS. It’s been wonderful to assist them with their calls and supporting other 911 dispatchers.” Being a dispatcher can get overwhelming, she said. “You hear a lot of things that are hard to forget but if you learn the skills to continue to work in the field, it is extremely rewarding. I’m very, very thankful that my mom saw that article.” l
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September 2026 | Page 17
Farmington approves property tax increase to fund additional firefighters
City leaders emphasized that sales tax and building permit revenue fluctuate year to year and cannot reliably fund essential services. By Amber Rothamer a.rothamer@davisjournal.com
F
armington residents will see a small increase to their annual property tax bill after the City Council voted to adopt a 4.99% property tax increase for Fiscal Year 2026– 27. The decision, made during the city’s Truth in Taxation hearing on Aug. 18, will generate $285,108 in new annual revenue, dedicated entirely to stabilizing the city’s growing emergency services needs. Farmington’s certified tax rate will rise from 0.001506 to 0.001581, resulting in an additional $32.58 per year for the average home valued at $790,000. Businesses of the same value will see an increase of $59.25. The increase is tied entirely to Farmington’s Fire Department, which expanded staffing earlier this year in response to rising call volumes and slower response times. In January, the department increased from seven to eight firefighters per shift, hiring three new full‑time firefighters. The Fire Marshal position also moved from part time to full time due to new state legislation surrounding wildland fire management. These personnel costs were temporarily covered by General Fund reserves, which city leaders say is no longer sustainable. Mayor Brett Anderson told residents the city is working to build a fire department that can “manage itself,” rather than relying on volunteers or neighboring cities. He noted that Farmington has historically depended on Kaysville for emergency services support – a burden he said
Page 18 | September 2026
fell disproportionately on Kaysville residents. Strengthening Farmington’s own department, he said, benefits both communities. City leaders also highlighted internal cost‑saving measures already undertaken within the Fire Department. The Fire Chief recently reviewed department operations and eliminated several non‑emergency services – including assistance at the jail and certain support at senior living facilities – to ensure taxpayer funding is focused strictly on essential emergency response. Several residents spoke during the public hearing, including Olivia King, who has lived in Farmington for more than 50 years. King said the increase would be difficult for seniors living on fixed incomes. “Not even my Social Security can keep up with what is being asked,” she said. Other residents asked about staffing levels and whether Lagoon – one of Farmington’s largest commercial entities – is contributing fairly to the tax base. Council members responded with information about staffing and the city’s tax structure. They also noted that while Utah taxes Social Security and veterans benefits, they aim to keep increases minimal and hope for future state legislation that may ease the burden on seniors. Councilmember Roger Child advised seniors to consider Utah’s property tax deferral option, which allows qualifying residents to delay payment until the sale or transfer of their home. Councilmember Kristin Sherlock added that seniors living on Social Security may qualify for the state’s “circuit breaker” program, which provides discounted property taxes based on income. Councilmember Scott Isaacson summarized the city’s position: “Essential safety services are covered by property taxes.” Farmington’s increase mirrors a broader pattern across
Farmington City Council members listen to public comment during the Aug. 18 Truth in Taxation hearing, where the council approved a 4.99% property tax increase. (Amber Rothamer/The Davis Journal)
Davis County, where multiple cities have raised property tax rates this year to keep pace with growth, inflation, and rising public safety costs. Increases varied widely, from Woods Cross at 46.86% to Centerville at 15.61% and Kaysville at 14.12%. Farmington’s 4.99% increase is among the smallest in the county. City leaders emphasized that sales tax and building permit revenue fluctuate year to year and cannot reliably fund essential services. While Station Park has historically driven strong sales tax growth, recent years have shown significant slowing. Property tax, they said, provides the stable, predictable revenue needed to maintain response times and staffing as Farmington grows. Residents who wish to review the full meeting packet or explore tax relief options can visit farmington.utah.gov or contact the city at 801‑939‑9218. l
T he City Journal
Davisjournal.com
September 2026 | Page 19
Kaysville opens memorial garden, expanding cremation options Advance purchase of Memorial Garden plots is now available. By Cindi Mansell c.mansell@mycityjournals.com
A
The cemetery upgrade looking north. The project is being constructed in phases to help manage costs to the city. (Photo by Cindi Mansell)
new chapter in the Kaysville City Cemetery’s history is taking shape with the completion of the first phase of its Memorial Garden, a dedicated space designed to meet the growing demand for cremation interments in the community. Located at the Kaysville City Cemetery, 500 East Crestwood Road, the Memorial Garden sits directly behind the cemetery offices and will eventually span more than half an acre. When fully completed, the garden is expected to provide space for approximately 1,200 cremation urns. The project is being constructed in phases to help manage costs to the city. The estimated cost of the completed Memorial Garden was previously estimated at approximately $1 million. The project comes as cremation has become an increasingly common choice for families since 2018. Because the Kaysville City Cemetery is landlocked, the city recognized the need to make the most of the cemetery’s remaining space while preserving traditional burial options for future generations. Creating a dedicated area for cremation
interments allows the cemetery to accommodate changing preferences while extending its ability to serve Kaysville families for years to come. “The Memorial Garden gives families more choices while helping us make responsible use of the limited space available at the cemetery,” city officials said. The first phase adds 265 new interment spaces, providing additional capacity as more families choose cremation. Beyond simply providing additional interment space, the Memorial Garden was designed as a peaceful setting where families can honor and remember loved ones. The garden will offer several memorial options, including family estates, memorial benches, pedestals, post markers and a columbarium. These choices allow families to select a memorial that reflects their preferences while creating a lasting place for remembrance. With the first phase now complete, families can also plan ahead. Memorial Garden plots are currently available for advance purchase. For information about available options and pricing, visit the Kaysville City Cemetery page on the city’s website or contact the cemetery office at 801-497-7140. As Kaysville continues to grow, the Memorial Garden represents an investment not only in cemetery space, but in providing families with meaningful options for honoring loved ones well into the future. l
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T he City Journal
Bountiful High senior represents Utah at American Legion Boys Nation John Alley went to Washington, D.C. where he learned about civics and the government. By Becky Ginos becky.g@thecityjournals.com
B
OUNTIFUL—John Alley is passionate about the government and laws that govern the nation. The Bountiful High senior had the opportunity recently to immerse himself in both at the American Legion Boys Nation that he attended in Washington, D.C. along with other boys from across the country. The American Legion, the nation’s largest veterans organization, has nearly 1.4 million members. “They put on this program, Boys Nation, which is associated with Boys State that every state has across the country except for Hawaii and they all have their own Boys State,” said Alley. “I got involved with the Utah Boys State after hearing about it at a Bountiful City Youth Council event. I was encouraged to apply so I did that and was accepted to the program.” Alley said he spent a week on the campus of Weber State Learning about civics and simulating state government. “We passed bills and had a state legislature and all of those things. At Utah Boys State you can run for different elected offices.” One of those highest offices is Senator to the nation, he said. “And there’s two of those
positions. I ran for that and was lucky enough to win. So myself and another Senator from Utah went to Boys Nation which is pretty much the same thing, but simulating the federal government instead of state government.” Boys State was a lot of fun, Alley said. “The American Legion is such a great organization. They were really good to us. I started off elected to the city council. We split into cities at Boys State and did activities with a group of guys, about 20 of us. They split us up into eight so you get really close with those guys.” There were speaking challenges, he said. “We had quizzes on constitutional principles and those kinds of things.” After being elected to the city council, Alley said he ran for State Senator for the state legislature. “It was a lot of fun debating bills and passing things. Then at the end of the week I ran for Senator. My campaign promise was that I’d try my hardest to represent Utah and do the best for us (at Boys Nation). So then in D.C., my mindset throughout the week was ‘how can I represent Utah and bring Utah values to Washington?’” Alley said they have a mock Senate at Boys Nation. “We pass bills for hours and hours on end. There’s a lot of time spent in the Senate so you’re able to get up and debate and all that.” There are four big offices at Boys Nation that kids can run for, he said. “They’re elected by all 100 guys. So I ran for Secretary of the Senate and won. My duties were to maintain the journal and to
My529 incentiFive extension expands college savings opportunity contribution in year five, for a total of The program will now go through 2030. Enrollment starts Sept. 1, 2026. $929 over the five-year period.
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ALT LAKE CITY—Utah’s official nonprofit 529 educational savings plan, my529, is extending its incentiFive Program for the 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030 cohort years due to a successful pilot year. The incentiFive program allows eligible Utah families to begin saving for their children’s education at birth. Sign ups for the 2027 cohort starts Sept. 1. Eligible Utah parents may enroll during the applicable sign-up period and make a minimum contribution of $100 in each of the first five years to their child’s my529 account, a release said. If families meet the annual contribution requirement, my529 will award $100 in incentive contributions in each of years one through four, followed by a final $529 incentive
Davisjournal.com
“incentiFive is about helping families take small, consistent steps now that can make a real difference later,” said Bryn Ramjoue’, Marketing Director at my529. “Extending the program through 2030 gives more Utah parents an opportunity to begin saving early and build momentum toward their children’s future education.” Parents can enroll by opening a new my529 account or they can connect it to an existing my529 account through the incentiFive portal. Friends and family can also contribute to the account and that will count toward the annual minimum. Eligibility requirements and program terms apply. To learn more and get started, visit my529.org/incentiFive or email marketing@my529.org.l
Bountiful High senior John Alley (center) and some of the other delegates at the Mall in Washington, D.C. (Courtesy)
preside over the Senate in the absence of the President Pro Tempore and to keep things running smoothly and file bills, etc.” It was a busy week, said Alley. One of the highlights for Alley was the opportunity to meet with Rep. Celeste Malloy. “That was really cool,” he said. “Walking around the Capitol and seeing different offices really just put into perspective how human everybody is. We kind of idolize these top political figures in our country. But you can go to D.C. and go into a House office building and walk down the hallway and see your representatives or walk into the Senate office building and see Chuck Schumer – they’re all just people.” Alley got to do some touring while he was in Washington. “We went to the Supreme Court and got to see the chamber which was really cool,” he said. “We also went to Arlington National Cemetery and watched
the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.” Another highlight was visiting the Pentagon, Alley said. “I was given the honor of laying a wreath with the President Pro Tempore. It was really neat to lay the wreath in honor of the lives lost at the Pentagon on 9/11.” Alley said he loves politics. “I want to make the community better. I think it’s the best way we can make changes where we need to see them.” In addition to his involvement in politics, Alley is a classical pianist. “I’ve been doing that for about 13 years and I’ve enjoyed doing competitions and things like that.” After graduation Alley plans to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. “When I get back I want to immediately attend college and pursue a career in law and maybe public service down the road if that’s where life takes me.” l
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September 2026 | Page 21
North Salt Lake considers re-addressing properties annexed from unincorporated area
North Salt Lake City formed a committee to lead the re-addressing of the unincorporated area that was annexed into the city and looks forward to involving the public in the process. By Megan Fisher m.fisher@davisjournal.com
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orth Salt Lake officials have called for a committee to be formed to look into the possibility of an address change for any North Salt Lake residence or business that is currently using a Bountiful address. In 2021, the Davis County Commission voted for the unicorporated Val Verda area of Davis County to be annexed into North Salt Lake. This decision affected 96 acres of privately-owned property on which sat 314 homes, and 10 acres of privately-owned land, including Adelaide Elementary. The County asked North Salt Lake to annex the Val Verda area as a way to better provide public services to the area and equitable taxation to county citizens. Now, in 2026 it has come time for the addresses of the Val Verda area to be transferred from the Bountiful system over to North Salt Lake. Community Development Director Sherrie Pace has been put in charge of heading the project and during the Aug. 4 City Council meeting presented to the council her plan. The plan was warmly received by the city council, with many compliments to the hard work that Pace put in, but it is still in draft form and subject to changes. As proposed by Pace the re-addressing committee will consist of nine members. They will be herself as community development director, a city council member, designees from the Police, Fire and Public Works Departments, local business owners, and neighborhood representatives. The council will meet together throughout the months of September, October and November. Many of the meetings will also include the County Clerk, County Recorder, Bountiful’s Post Master, and North Salt Lake’s
Communications Director. In addition to providing support and advice to the mayor and city council the committee will work on estimating cost to the city and residents, developing a plan to communicate with the public, creating transition packets for residents and business owners that would explain such things as how to change the address on your driver’s license and voter registration, and identifying the potential impact of the address changes. They will also put together proposals for the city council regarding street names, any necessary reimbursements, and establishing a timeline for the project. By February 2027, a draft of the budget for property owner reimbursement and formal resolution will be finished and passed along to the city council for approval. After that the municipal databases will be updated with the new addresses, and agencies such as the emergency services, state and county for voter registration, utility providers, and private companies like Google Maps, USPS, and FedEx, will be informed of the address changes. In either April or May 2027, official notices will be sent to property owners informing them of the address change and the date it will take effect. They will receive the aforementioned transition kit, which will explain how to update driver’s licenses, deeds, bank accounts, and voter registration. During this same period of time street signs and intersection markers A map illustrating the Val Verda area that was annexed into North Salt Lake. (Courtesy of the will be updated with the new street names, Community Development department of North Salt Lake) hopefully overnight or a single weekend. There will be a three month period in which mail and emergency services recognizes both the old and new address. The re-addressing committee and the city council want the public to be involved in the process. There will be numerous opportunities for open houses where the public can raise con480 East 150 North in Bountiful. A number of LDS Church stakes cerns and ask questions, and residents of the Val Executive director Rebekah Anderson and members of other local conVerda area can describe their experience with said the most needed items are peanut butgregations will gather donations the annexation process. The re-addressing comter, boxed meals, canned chili/soup, ramen for the Bountiful Food Pantry on mittee will spend a great deal of time in their noodles/pasta, baking supplies/mixes, Sept. 12 meetings reviewing the public’s concerns. “The canned meat, boxed cereal, canned tomaquestion is how will this impact you, and how toes, and canned vegetables/fruit. can the city help to alleviate that,” said CounBy Tom Haraldsen “Many families have some of these cilmember Heidi Smoot. l t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com items at home in their pantries or on shelves,” she said. “We always tell those everal stakes of The Church of Jesus wishing to donate that if their family eats Christ of Latter-day Saints, along it, our families will eat it. We welcome all with other local church denominations, food donations and appreciate the efforts of will take part in a community food drive so many churches in our communities who on Saturday, Sept. 12. It’s in honor of the are partnering with us for this food drive.” annual 9-11 Day of Service to commemShe said food will not be picked up orate the 25th anniversary of the terrorist from front porches – only donations taken attacks in 2001. to drop off locations or to the food pantry Eight Latter-day Saint stakes in Boun- itself will be collected. tiful along with some Farmington stakes “If you have not been notified about will gather food donations for the Boun- a collection place for your congregation, tiful Food Pantry. Members of church please bring it to our pantry parking lot,” groups who are participating have been she said. “We’ll have volunteers onsite to notified of drop-off locations. The food take your donations from 9 to 11 a.m. on will then be taken to the pantry, located at Sept. 12.” l
Day of Service food drive set for Sept. 12
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Page 22 | September 2026
T he City Journal
City Journals presents:
A publication covering local pets, their
humans, and their care around Davis County
Find your best furry friend at the shelter By Becky Ginos | becky.g@thecityjournals.com The shelter is always looking for “Kendalyn Harris, Susan Lee and Bret people to adopt their older dogs and Millburn recently came through and took a cats. Anyone who is interested can tour of the facility,” said Animal Care Direcvolunteer or foster an animal. tor Michelle Hicks. “They were constantly being asked questions by the public about FRUIT HEIGHTS—In 2025, Animal the facility and whether we need a new Care of Davis County took in more than one or not. I think that they all went away 5,000 animals. The shelter is bursting at knowing that it is an aging facility and we the seams and very old. The county is in do need a new one.” the process of looking at a proposal to Because it is an open admission shelbuild a new facility. ter, Hicks said they take in owner surrenders. “There are some shelters that do not take owner surrenders and rely on the Humane Society and rescues.” Animal Care takes dogs, cats, guinea pigs and other animals, she said. “We have a bearded dragon currently. We’ve had pigeons, pigs, roosters, chickens, all that kind of stuff.” Hicks said they work with a number of rescues. “When dogs or cats come through that are a little older there are specific rescues that help get the older dogs and older cats adopted out.” They also have a partnership with Wasatch Wanderers, she said. “They do a lot of our livestock, our pigs, our chickens and roosters and place them in appropriate homes that make sense for those types of animals.” Hicks said they’re in the middle of kitten season. “We’re on our third wave. When it gets really warm and our feral communities can give birth there is a higher rate. We get a lot of volunteers out trapping for us and we also have a community cat officer specifically that goes and does those trappings and assists the community doing that.” The shelter has amazing volunteers, she said. “I think last week we had 150 kittens in foster homes. That doesn’t mean there are 150 foster homes. That A volunteer cuddles Prince Ali at Animal means there’s 150 cats in foster homes Care of Davis County. It’s kitten season and which means there’s some that can take the shelter already has 150 cats in foster six. Some that can take two depending on homes. (Courtesy/Animal Care) the need.”
Davisjournal.com
There are some medically frail kittens that come through, Hicks said. “Some need eye ointment or tube feeding and supplemental care. We have specific fosters that know how to do that. We’re always in need of fosters that are willing to go above and beyond and help those medically frail kittens.” Hicks said there are other volunteer opportunities. “We have a couple of different options. We have volunteers that come into the shelter and give enrichment to the animals here. Whether it be quick walks, letting them go to the bathroom or putting treats in toys so they have to figure out how to get the treats out and socialize with them.” Another program is called Sniff About, she said. “Anybody can come up as long as they’re 18 years and older and check out a dog for an hour or two. They can go to stores like Home Depot and walk around. They can go get a Pup Cup. They can go on trails and hikes.” There are runners who come every Saturday and take them out, said Hicks. “It’s just to get the dog out of the shelter for a little while so they’re not here in a kennel.” Hicks said they also have Weekend Wags. “Generally it’s over the weekend, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. It’s almost like checking out a book. You check out
a dog and you have them for a couple of days so that they can kind of decompress from the animal shelter and know what it’s like living in a home.” They sometimes have people that are thinking about adoption and they do the Weekend Wag to see how they’re going to bond with the person and how they’re going to react to the resident’s animals, she said. “A lot of dogs get adopted that way.” Hicks said they’re always looking for adopters that will adopt older animals and bigger dogs. “It’s something we struggle with. So as much as we can find those adopters that are willing to take our older pups, it’s what I like to call them, you know elder cats and dogs – that’s fantastic.” The Weekend Wags and other programs help make sure the animals are a good fit, she said. “What we don’t want is for them to get adopted and not work out and then bring them back. They’re (animal) kind of in the same position.” Hicks said they’re not judgmental if they’re bringing them back. “We want the information so that we can find an actual home that works super well for both the animal owner and the animal.” For more information on Animal Care and adoption visit https://www.daviscountyutah.gov/animalcare or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/acdcpets.
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September 2026 | Page 23
Parade of cats who come for dinner By Gail Newbold andersennewbold@gmail.com For feral cats, a friendly human can mean a reliable source of food. Every morning, sometimes a single cat and other times a whole bevy of strays, gathers at Dave Newbold’s front door. They pace across the porch, stare longingly through the glass and, occasionally, break into howls or hisses. This cat parade repeats in the evening. It’s all the cue Newbold needs to head to the garage for a can of cat food. He chats as he feeds them, calling each by the name he’s bestowed on it. They’re never allowed in the house. And Newbold rarely pets or holds them because they’re so skittish. His wife (me) has often wondered why this frugal man, and for that matter anyone who feeds stray cats, spends money on canned cat food for seemingly very little payback. Here’s the story of why one man does. “I like cats,” Newbold said. “I like little animals in general. And since they’re feral, they probably have a tough time finding food. I also hope if I feed them, maybe they’ll come to like me and let me pet them or sit on my lap. It brings me great joy when they do. But mostly they don’t. Usually, the
best I get is they don’t run away when they see me. “I also find it fascinating to watch their behavior,” Newbold continued. “It’s fun to see how they play and hunt and fight. They can be domineering, territorial and playful. There was one who followed me around when I did yard work. He’d paw at me when I worked in the dirt and jump up on my bonsai stands where I was working and watch me. He was my favorite. I don’t know where he went. I named him Smiley. They come and go. I’ve fed eight or 10 cats over the last few years.” In spite of his long career as an award-winning creative in the advertising industry, Newbold’s cat names are disappointingly obvious. There are no Bruisers or Cleopatras. “My wife mocks me for my cat names,” he said. “I name them based on their traits or appearance. In addition to the previously mentioned Smiley, there’s Hissy, BB or Black Beauty, Stripey, Ghost, Missy, and Whiny.” Although assigning the cats’ names might imply a close relationship, he doesn’t become attached. “They don’t get attached to me either,” Newbold said. “We like each other but we’re not going to go
Dave Newbold serves up dinner for a few feral cat friends who visit regularly.
One of Newbold’s feral cats stretches out for a nap. (Gail Newbold/Davis Journal)
steady. They use me for my food and I use them for all the reasons I already stated.” Newbold likes the freedom of going on a vacation without feeling guilty about leaving the cats who seem able to care for themselves. “I don’t have to hire a cat sitter or have vaccination or vet bills,” he said. “I just pay for food. The cats may be feral but they’re very particular. They don’t like dry food and only eat it if they have to, so I buy the cheapest canned food I can find.” Two winters ago, he spent $25 on a small insulated house for them. They hated it and refused to use it despite his attempts to lure them inside with cat treats, catnip and soft blankets. There don’t seem to be a lot of downsides to feeding free-range cats, but there are a few. Any food left in the cat dish at night attracts raccoons. And there have been maggots – like the time Newbold left an open can of cat food in the hot garage before vacation, covered only by a
Ziploc bag, apparently thinking refrigeration wasn’t necessary. According to Officer Merrin Hansen with Animal Care of Davis County, there are many like Newbold who have big hearts and worry about community cats going hungry. Does Animal Care encourage or discourage the feeding of stray cats? “We don’t have a preference,” said Hansen, “as long as the feeding takes place on people’s own property. A lot of community cats have multiple caretakers. If one is out of town, they’ll find another. But they also know how to hunt and catch.” Animal Care offers a trap, neuter and release program free of charge to anyone who brings cats to the center at 1422 E. 600 North, Fruit Heights. Traps can be rented. Afterward, a cat’s left ear is clipped straight across at the tip to indicate their status. “We’ll even pick up the cats if people trap them first,” said Hansen.
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Page 24 | September 2026
T he City Journal
Owning a pet can improve well-being and longevity By Kerry Angelbuer | k.angelbuer@mycityjournals.com Caring for a pet gives purpose to ready to meet the moment. Humans need to learn this helpful mindset that can help your life and can reduce loneliness. decrease stress and manage pain. SimBe it a cat, dog, parakeet or gerbil, car- ilarly, interacting with a dog for only 30 ing for a pet can also provide self care for minutes of “therapy,”can help a child with the owner. Madison Leyba, deputy director ADHD increase social skills, volunteering of Animal Care of Davis County, maintains and cooperation. Leyba thinks looking at a that the biggest benefit is companionship. fish is “calming” with the sound of running “It gives purpose to your life, makes you feel water from the filter and the simplicity of needed, and reduces loneliness,” she said. mindfully watching. Cats can be helpful in teaching someDifferent pets can provide different benefits. A cat can give a comforting cud- one the important social skill of looking for dle, the purr can be soothing and laying on consent. Less tolerant than dogs, interactsomeone’s lap can calm like a weighted ing with cats can help someone read the blanket. An energetic dog can get its owner non-verbal social clues given. “Airplane out of the house for cardio training twice ears,” said Leyba, “like wings flat and down a day. According to News in Health (NIH), can be a warning that a cat does not want a government research entity, even caring to interact.” Leyba also sees owning a pet for a fish can improve a teenager’s ability as a conversation starter that can lead to to monitor their own diabetes. The daily a richer social network. “Throw the dating feeding and weekly cleanings improve the apps out the window and walk your dog,” teen’s ability to check sugar levels daily and said Leyba. “You might meet a fellow dog on a walk which could lead to doggy playdates go over results with parents once a week. The NIH also stresses the impor- or even being invited to a doggy birthday tance of mindfulness or the ability to pay party at a dog park with treats for humans attention, form intentions, develop com- and animals.” For couples who don’t have passion and increase awareness that can children for whatever reason, said Leyba, “a be gained by interacting with pets. Many pet can be a step in that direction.” Finally, pets can help establish a animals, especially a dog, remain in the moment, not bogged down by past con- healthy routine. Getting up and seeing cerns or future worries, just present and the sun early in the morning can be an
fall into the arts with
Fre e v e n tes
Victoria Angelbuer and Kiki share some relaxation. (Courtesy/Mark Angelbuer)
Jazlyn Mabin holds her pet snake Juju. (Courtesy)
important part of establishing good sleep habits. Pets have ways of letting their owners know that it is time for this. “At the end of a workday after making a bunch of decisions all day,” said Leyba, “you don’t have to decide what to do.” Almost any pet provides a living
soul to vent to about the day and many give unconditional love and acceptance in return. The Center of Disease Control (CDC) states that owning a pet has “profound” physical and mental benefits and “significantly” improves overall well being and longevity.
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Tips for keeping your dog calm during thunderstorms By Megan Fisher | m.fisher@davisjournal.com Help your pet to stay safe and calm them anxious and try to bolt for safety, during the thunderstorms of monsoon warns the Blue Cross. Tiring your dog out before the storm may help them to relax season. and reduce any potential stress. While thunderstorms may provide a dramatic beauty for humans and neces- Provide a safe space Dr. Melissa N. North and Dr. Sara sary moisture for plants, the loud bangs and bright flashes are often a source of L. Bennett for Todaysveterinarypractice. fear for dogs. Dogs can hear sounds that com suggest that the pet owner may are four times farther away and at a higher want to reduce any potential triggers for register than humans, meaning that if a the dog by creating a comfortable spot noise is loud for us, it may be intolera- for them in the home, or modifying the ble for them. According to Dr. Nicholas pet’s favorite hiding spot. Ideally, this is Dodman, director of the Animal Behav- away from windows and doors so that the ior Department at Cummings School of dog cannot see the flashes of lightning. Avoid frantically hovering and fussing Veterinary Science at Tufts University, the static electricity is extremely uncomfort- over the dog, as that can make them feel able for dogs, sending a tingling sensa- as though there is something to be worried about. Keep your petting relaxed and tion through their fur. Unlike with a small child you cannot your voice gentle and calm. Do not punish sit a dog down, and explain where the your dog for anything that happens during noises and lights are coming from. Here the storm, even if they destroy items or are some tips and tricks from veterinari- keep you awake late at night, as that can ans and pet associations for help in keep- only exacerbate the anxiety and teach the ing your pet calm during thunderstorms. dog that a storm means punishment.
Check the weather and plan accordingly
Play music or a white noise machine
Dante a black Labrador and border collie mix. (Megan Fisher/Davis Journal) the thunder, and create a more relaxing centers of a dog’s brain, and may help environment. There are numerous videos them to associate a storm with someon YouTube that have music specifically thing positive. to help calm dogs during a thunderstorm.
Create distractions
According to the RSPCA of Victoria Australia keeping your dog’s mind busy Playing a white noise machine or with toys, games, puzzles, and treats is Dogs are very sensitive to changes in the weather, and getting caught out- music such as soft rock or classical for helpful, keeping their mind occupied and side when a storm rolls in may make your dog can help to mask the sounds of distracted. Food activates the pleasure
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Rub them down with a dryer sheet
To prevent any unpleasant shocks from the static electricity in the air, Dr. Dodman advises rubbing your dog down gently with a scent-free dryer sheet. Making sure that it’s scent-free avoids any unwanted chemicals.
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T he City Journal
High School football teams ready for exciting season
A look at the local football programs and standout players. By Drew Angus d.angus@davisjournal.com
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he start of a new season brings a chance to reflect on past achievements, reach for new heights and enjoy one more sprint down the sideline for seniors. Today we take a look at each of the five high school football teams in south Davis County (Davis, Farmington, Viewmont, Bountiful and Woods Cross) to review how each team came out of last year, where they hope to go this year, and who will be their key players to get there.
Senior Viewmont wide receiver/corner back Brady Clegg (11) Let’s start off with the team who is currently carrying makes a tackle during Bonneville’s opening drive of the first the highest expectations in the list – the Davis Darts. Last game of the season.
Davis High School
year Davis finished their season with 10 wins and only two losses, losing to Lone Peak 41-38 in the quarterfinals of the state tournament. “We need to get to Rice Eccles or bust,” said Head Coach Scott Peery. “The team has the talent to achieve our goals, to get to the semifinals at Rice Eccles. But there are a lot of great teams we will face this season and we just need to take it week by week.” In terms of who can help Davis achieve their goals, Bode Sparrow (WR/S) leads a talented and deep group of senior players all looking to contribute. Bode is currently the top rated player in the state of Utah and Bode committed to the Oklahoma Sooners earlier this summer. “I can’t speak enough about that young man,” Peery said. “I can’t think of a better role model either for the youth to watch on the field and on the basketball court.” Bode will look to play both ways contributing on offense and on defense again this season.
Farmington High School
The Farmington Phoenix underwent significant changes last year with a coaching staff overhaul including new offensive and defensive schemes while ultimately finishing with a 5-6 record losing to Lone Peak in the second round of the playoffs 41-14. “We want to compete for a region championship and we want to make it to Rice Eccles in the state tournament,” said Head Coach David Fiefia. He believes they have the talent to achieve their goals on the field. “We want our boys to grow in both football and in life,” he said. Fiefa said he’s seen growth both on the football field and off the field that he is proud of this offseason. He has also seen increased leadership and ownership from their
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quarterfinals. “The first goal is we want to compete for and win a regional championship, and the secondary goal is to make it back to Rice Eccles stadium and win a state championship,” Head Coach Jason Freckleton said. The Redhawks start off with a tough pre-season schedule facing three 6A opponents before jumping into their grueling regional play. Freckleton highlighted seniors Lakepa Satuala and Carter Brooks as leaders on the team who will both play a big role this season on both the offensive and defensive side Viewmont High School of the ball. Satuala is coming off a big junior year and comThe Vikings started off last season hot, winning four of mitted to BYU earlier this summer, following in the footsteps their first five games; however, a grueling region schedule of his older brother and former Redhawk Faletau Satuala. brought them to a 4-7 finish including a close 41-34 loss to West Field in the first round of the playoffs. “Our next step is Woods Cross High School Last but not least on this list are the Woods Cross Wildto compete in our region for a region title,” said Head Coach Andru Jones. Jones believes this year they have the senior cats. Woods Cross is coming off a great 2025 season where leadership and talent to do just that as they are returning 17 of they shared the region title with Brighton, for the first time 22 starters across both the offense and defense. “The undis- in 11 years while finishing with an 8-4 record. “Every coach puted leader of the team is four-year starter and SBO presi- is going into the season with the idea that they want to go out and win their region,” Head Coach Brody Benson said. dent Lewis Right,” Jones said. With Lewis anchoring the offensive line this season, the “That’s our first goal and we definitely have the talent and the deep threat on offense to watch this year is another four-year players to do that this year.” Benson praised his players for their hard work and dedicontributor: two-way starter Brady Clegg (WR/CB). Clegg is the top returning wide receiver for Viewmont in terms of cation during the offseason, led by starting outside linebacker offensive production, and is expected to make a large impact and full back Ryan Miller. “The team looks to [Ryan] for leadership,” Benson said. “Ryan shows great leadership on on both sides of the ball for the Vikings this year. the field and in the weight room.” Bountiful High School With a move this year from wing to full back, Miller’s The Redhawks had a slow start to the season last year impact is expected to be even greater than it was last year as only winning one of their first four games, but finished the he aims to have a great season that can propel him into even season with a strong 7-6 record losing to West 14-3 in the greater recruiting opportunities. l
senior players, especially on the defensive side of the ball starting with safety Kava Fiefia. He rallies the team, plays with a high energy, and is one of our four defensive captains,” Fiefia said. Kava is a three-year varsity contributor bringing valuable experience to the team this year. Alongside Kava in the defensive backfield is two-year varsity contributor Westin Stewart, with Easton Hunt and George Anderson anchoring the linebacker position.
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Senior Davis wide receiver/safety Bode Sparrow (2) makes a leaping catch during the first quarter against Corner Canyon. (Photos by Drew Angus)
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September 2026 | Page 27
Senior Viewmont forward Tessa Nelson (13) celebrates with her teammates after scoring a goal against Davis.
Senior Farmington center back Sophie Jones passes the ball upfield in the first half against West Lake.
Woods Cross forward Clara Howes takes a shot on goal right before halftime against Clearfield. (Photos by Drew Angus)
Girls soccer season kicks off with high hopes
With the season underway, a preview highlight a few of our many key contributors. of which players will stand out and High School expectations for high school programs. DavisLast season was a bit of a mixed bag for
want to win the state championship.” Richens also acknowledged the tough season ahead, and emphasized that while their goal is to take state, they’re taking one step at a time. He also acknowledged the senior leadership and talent on this team, highlighting Samantha Maudsley as a senior forward who finished last year with 11 goals and seven assists. Maudsley is currently committed to play college soccer for Pepperdine University.
the Darts. After struggling during region play, the Darts had a great post-season run ending with an 11-8 record including a 2-1 loss to fresh season brings a moment to look Syracuse in the semi-finals. This year Davis back at prior victories, view higher goals returns 13 seniors, more than head coach Diland give seniors one last chance to make their lon Richens has ever had, with several who mark. Today we check in on each of the five have contributed for three or even four years girls high school soccer teams in south Davis at the varsity level. “Expectations for this year Farmington High School The Phoenix had a positive 2025 seaCounty (Davis, Farmington, Viewmont, are pretty high,” he said. “Our expectation is Bountiful and Woods Cross) to review last that we are here to take state. There is a big son, finishing with a strong 12-7 record, but season, align on this year’s aspirations and difference between first and second and we ending with a disappointing post season. The Phoenix lost to Davis 1-0 in the quarterfinals. The fact that Farmington beat Davis twice during the regular season made this loss extra difficult to swallow. “We want to compete for that region championship and make a run at state,” Head Coach Sarah Beecher said. Both goals seem achievable after coming Responsibly • Intellectually • Spiritually • Emotionally close to both last season. Farmington is another team with lots of seniors returning, and when eptember 26, 2026 asked who stands out as a leader and key contributor for the team Beecher responded without hesitation, “our starting center back Sophie Hosted by Knights of Columbus Council 5502 Jones. She is a rockstar, a solid player, ready to play and perform for whatever is needed.” GOLF TOURNAMENT: Sophie looks to anchor Farmington’s defensive and/or Sponsor a Hole Scramble Format line this year as they make a push for a region g the QRShotgun Code Start 8:00 AM title and a hopeful state championship. By Drew Angus d.angus@davisjournal.com
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The Vikings had their share of struggles during the 2025 season finishing 5-14 with a 3-0 loss to Brighton in the first round of the state tournament. “These girls are coming into this year with a chip on their shoulder and they want to prove to themselves what they’re capable of,” First year Head Coach John Morris said. Morris said he recognizes they play in a very tough region with Bountiful, Olympus, and Brighton being the top three teams they get to compete with and that his team is, “going to surprise people how good of a team we have put together this year.” In terms of key seniors looking to make significant contributions to the Vikings this season, senior forward Tessa Nelson stands at the top of the
list. Nelson has started off this season strong tallying two goals and two assists in the first three games of the 2026 season alone.
Bountiful High School
Bountiful enters 2026 as the team to beat as the reigning state champions. Bountiful finished the 2025 season with an outstanding 14-5 record ultimately defeating Olympus 2-1 in the state championship game. Head Coach Kris Hamlet recognizes that as “the defending state champs we definitely have a bit of a target on our back” this season, but is hopeful that with the team they have they “can be right back where we’ve been these last few seasons, competing for a state championship.” With high expectations and continuing to compete in a tough region, Bountiful will look to senior forward Myka Page to carry them to what they hope is another historic season. Myka finished the 2025 season with 15 goals, including one in the state championship game, and is already off to a great start of the season with two goals and two assists in Bountiful’s first three games.
Woods Cross High School
Rounding out our list are the Woods Cross Wildcats. After a challenging 2025 season where the Wildcats finished 5-14 losing to Wasatch High School 3-1 in the first round of the state tournament the Wildcats are looking to make improvements. Woods Cross welcomes first year head coach Rob Ure to bring in a new era of soccer for the Wildcats. Ure recognizes this region is one of the most difficult in the state but is optimistic about what the team can accomplish. “We want to win more games than we won last year,” he said. “And for this to be a successful season, we need to win at least one playoff game.” Ure believes he has the talent and that the team has the drive to accomplish their goals. Ure highlighted senior forward Clara Howes as a leader and difference maker on the team. Howes was a 5A all-state honorable mention in 2025. “We’d like to see her make 1st or 2nd team all state this year,” he said. Howes is off to a hot start this season scoring two goals in their season opener against Fremont. l
T he City Journal
Little Free Libraries bring community together through shared stories
A host of book-sharing boxes chartered with the Little Free Library nonprofit are scattered across Woods Cross City, bringing the community easy access to books. By Rebekah Bowman r.bowman@davisjournal.com
W
OODS CROSS—Based in St. Paul Minnesota, the Little Free Library nonprofit expands book access in communities through book-exchange boxes. “We believe all people are empowered when the opportunity to discover a personally relevant book to read is not limited by time, space, or privilege,” it says on their website. More than 200,000 registered Little Free Libraries exist across the globe, and Woods Cross City is home to at least six chartered Little Free Libraries. They’re stewarded by passionate readers who enjoy sharing their love of books with their neighbors. Marilyn’s Library 909 W. 2100 South Charter #108580 Marilyn Hodo’s library is vibrant limegreen, wrapped in fairy lights and sheltered by a roof shaped like a splayed-open book. Her children built it for her six years ago as a birthday present.
Every little free library book-exchange in Woods Cross is unique. (Rebekah Bowman/ Davis Journal)
“I really hope some people can find a book they like and decide, ‘well maybe it’s not too bad to read’ because they don’t have to invest anything,” said Hodo. Leaving a book is optional. She also noted that the library provides neighbors convenient access to books. “Sometimes busy moms don’t have time to go to the library, but they go on walks,” she
said. “All they have to do is check it.” The variety of books that appear is Hodo’s favorite part of the library. “I like the way the books are always turning over,” she said. She has read books she never would have picked up if not for her library. “There’s nothing like a good story,” said Hodo. Tales & Tails Library 2112 S. 925 West Charter #203222 Next to Morning Side Park, “Tales & Tails” provides books to humans and treats to dogs. It’s painted in bright colors and nestled in front of a bush. Hogan Park 750 W. 1500 South Charter #61290 A rainbow-and-flower-painted book box faces the historical log cabin at Hogan Park. Situated on the main thoroughfare of 1500 South, this Little Free Library is easily accessible, both to park-goers and pedestrians. Mandi’s Library 812 W. 1935 South Charter #167738 Mandi Marks’s family book box is shaped like a little white house with a blue roof. It has a steady stock of books for adults and kids – and always enough space for neighbors to leave books inside. Marks and her family get excited when they see someone stop at their Little Free
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Library. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the library helped them connect with their neighbors. That connection has continued past lockdown. “It’s been really good as far as building community,” said Marks. “We’ve met new people because of it.” People drop off boxes of books, grandparents stop by with their grandkids and both friends and strangers stop by to look inside the library. “Little stories like that, that people are enjoying [the library] and noticing it, that’s part of my favorite thing,” said Marks. The other part is finding books on her TBR waiting for her in the library, and her kids love going out to find new books to read. Mills Park 1850 S. 1200 West Charter #61291 The bright purple Little Free Library sits by the parking lot of Mill’s Park, convenient to stop by on the way to or from the park. Clark Little Library 2127 S. 2050 West Charter #63149 On the western side of Woods Cross is a cheerful yellow book box. It sits on the home’s porch, growing out of a soil-filled planter. To see the Little Free Library World Map, you can go to https://littlefreelibrary. org/map/. To learn more about the nonprofit (and how to make a library of your own), you can go to https://littlefreelibrary.org/. l
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Layton Hills Mall Invites Community to Be Part of the Utah Cultural Heritage Celebration Utah’s rich cultures and traditions will once again take center stage at LAYTON HILLS MALL at the 2nd Annual Utah Cultural Heritage Celebration on Saturday, September 26 (time), in Center Court. The community celebration will bring together performers, artists, vendors and community organizations for a day designed to showcase the traditions, music, dance, art and stories that make Utah unique. Among this year’s featured performers will be Oaxaca en Utah, returning to share traditional Oaxacan folk dance with colorful costumes, music and movement. Building on the success of last year’s
inaugural celebration, Layton Hills Mall is currently inviting additional cultural performers, entertainers, artisans, vendors and community organizations to participate in this year’s event. “We want this celebration to truly reflect the people and cultures that are part of our community,” said Glady Larsen, Marketing and Community Engagement Manager at Layton Hills Mall. “Last year gave families an opportunity to experience traditions they may not encounter every day, and we’re excited to build on that this year. We would love to hear from local performers, artists, organizations and vendors who would like to share their culture and traditions with our community.”
The celebration will give families an opportunity to experience cultural traditions through live performances, demonstrations, art, food, displays and conversations with participating groups. Layton Hills Mall is particularly interested in hearing from: • Cultural dance and music groups • Individual performers and entertainers • Artists and artisans • Cultural and community organizations • Vendors featuring culturally inspired goods, art or food • Schools and student groups interested in showcasing cultural tradi-
tions Events like the Utah Cultural Heritage Celebration are part of Layton Hills Mall’s ongoing efforts to create opportunities for community connection and bring people together through shared experiences. Organizations, performers and vendors interested in participating in the 2nd Annual Utah Cultural Heritage Celebration are encouraged to contact Layton Hills Mall at glady.larsen@cbre. com for additional information. Follow Layton Hills Mall on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for details on upcoming events. SPONSORED CONTENT
Page 30 | September 2026
T he City Journal
I
’ve always wanted a beautiful front porch where I could drink tea, read a book and listen to the neighbor’s fight. A porch was one of the first social media platforms. It just took a while to get the gossip; you had to sit patiently and wait for it to walk by. Now, our inability to be still keeps us from the simple joy of lounging on the porch to watch the flowers bloom, see the boy down the street learn to ride a bike, notice where the stray cat hides so you can leave it a treat, or watch your neighbor back into a light pole. At my childhood home, we didn’t have a fancy porch with swings and flowers; we had a concrete slab in front of our door, with two cement steps leading to the walkway. That was our porch and we sat on it all the time. If we were seated on the stoop, our friends knew we could play. There was no texting to see if we were home. There were no parents on a group chat arranging a play date. Kids just rode by on their bikes and invited us to go to the park. We’d gather friends along the way who were sitting on various porch steps until we had an entire gang. When I had a stomachache, Mom gave me a can of Coca-Cola. Apparently the medical treatment for an upset stomach in those days was carbonated, caffeinated sugar. Because drinking Coke in Utah at the time was borderline scandalous, I took my demon
Davisjournal.com
Leave the porch light on Peri Kinder Life and Laughter
beverage to the porch and sipped it while my friends watched, concerned about the state of my soul. Porches were the center of neighborhood communication. We’d leave treats on people’s welcome mats and Valentine’s cards on doorsteps. It’s where the paperboy threw the newspaper every morning and where the neighbor stood to accuse us of doorbell ditching, which also happened on a porch. How many first kisses happen on the front porch? People came to our porch every day. When the doorbell rang, we’d run to the front door, racing to open it first. We didn’t have Ring cameras. We had curiosity. It might be the Fuller Brush Man, a neighbor returning a casserole dish or Mom’s friend stopping by to gossip. The porch was where you sat in the rain, enjoyed the sunset, ate homemade cookies and watched a moth throw itself against the porch light. It was the place where nothing
happened, but also everything happened. A porch held no expectations but promoted childhood observations like: Is that mysterious car a kidnapper and does he have candy? Maybe we got rid of our front-porch communities because a porch required us to do something we’re increasingly uncomfortable with: nothing. We humble-brag about our busy schedules, eliminate downtime and use our phones to entertain us during the three minutes it takes to microwave a frozen dinner. Ironically, there’s an app called Front Porch Forum that’s supposed to connect people to their neighbors and communities. But you don’t have to download an app to build
connection. In fact, I challenge you to disengage from tech and go outside. If you have a porch or a stoop, sit down. Wait for the world to come to you. Talk to the woman walking her dog. Visit with the teenager slouching past your house. Watch the neighbor washing his car or the kid selling lemonade. If you’re lucky, listen to the neighbor’s fight. It’s really the perfect location. Peri Kinder is an award-winning columnist and journalist who has written for The City Journals since 2004. She also hosts the Life & Laughter podcast. Peri can be reached at peri.k@thecityjournals.com.
September 2026 | Page 31
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