Draper Journal | July 2025

CCHS senior wins four state titles; boys team second, girls sixth

By Catherine Garrett | c.garrett@mycityjournals.com

David Konan sprints to four titles at the 6A state championships.

Corner Canyon High’s David Konan set goals to dominate every meet this season in the sprint events and he backed up that mindset at the 6A state track championships at Brigham Young University May 16-17. The senior won the 100 meters and the 200 meters while also running a leg on the championship 4x100 relay and 4x200 relay teams in helping the boys team take second. The girls squad was sixth.

“David was a standout, winning gold in all four of his events,” said head coach Alyssa Dalton. “He was the only Charger to do so.”

“My mentality was to not be a part of the crowd, but to show out and be the top dog in

Corner Canyon High senior David Konan won the 100 meters and 200 meters at the 6A state track meet while also running a leg on the championship 4x100 relay and 4x200 relay teams. (Photo courtesy Zach Lewis)

the state,” Konan said. “It felt amazing to do that.”

Also on the 4x100 relay lineup was Bryton Brady, Isaiah Morris and Scott Pepper with Blake Ames, Pepper and Jerome Myles part of the winning 4x200 relay team.

“While it wasn’t a repeat title year, Corner Canyon athletes fought hard, shattered school records, and proved they belong among Utah’s elite,” Dalton said.

Two girls relays also won state champi-

onships – the 4x100 relay squad of Layla Valadez, Alice Peterson, Sophia Millich and Liberty Henstrom and the 4x200 relay lineup of Henstrom, Peterson, Valadez, Kenna Wong, Millich, Tayvee Ash, Sayler Grigoratos and Hallie Neff.

Konan, the son of Amos Konan and Dorris Jarlee, both of Taylorsville, has overcome hamstring and foot issues and also losing his club coach to Covid to peak for his state performance to be able to begin his senior year with a state football championship and end high school with four more state titles.

“The way I grew up [with immigrant parents from Liberia] I’ve always had the hunger mentality which has kept me motivated when I’m tired, sore and really in pain,” said Konan, who will take his running talents to Utah State. “I can’t describe the feeling. I would just constantly tell myself that I’ve gotta do this for me, my family, my teammates, my school. Track has help me be mentally disciplined and do hard things.”

Fourteen others competing for the Region 2 champion boys team who “demonstrated incredible strength and teamwork,” according to Dalton, were Myles, McKay Wells, Brock White, Blake Ames, Chryshaun Lee, Aidan Springer, Tina’u Fiaui, Steven Carlsen, Phin Mayer, Brock Doman, Thomas Cooper, Cooper Moore, Ryan Etherington and Brody Meier.

Myles “made an inspiring comeback” from a season-ending ACL tear during the football season to qualify for the state meet and also took third in the 100 meters in addition to being part of the two state championship relays.

Wells broke the state meet record in the 800 meters before being edged out by Herriman’s Tayshaun Ogomo who set a new mark in placing second “in an incredibly fast race.” So, Wells’ time of 1:49.57 now

I can’t describe the feeling. I would just constantly tell myself that I’ve gotta do this for me, my family, my teammates, my school. Track has help me be mentally disciplined and do hard things.

David Konan

tops the CCHS board in the event.

White brought 21 points to the boys team, with one of the meet’s “most grueling event combinations,” with a second-place finish in the 200 meters, second in the 300 meter hurdles – with a school record time of 37.61 – and fifth in the 400 meters.

Ames was three-tenths of a second behind White in the 300 meter hurdles to place third and take the second-best time at the school. He also moved up the CCHS leaderboard in the 110 meter hurdles to the third spot with a time of 15.28 in the state meet, finishing fifth.

Lee was third in the 200 meters and seventh in the 100 meters while also running for the 4x100 meter and 4x400 meter relay lineups.

Springer, the CCHS recordholder in the pole vault, took third. Fiaui threw a 536.5 in the shot put, a school best, to finish fifth and also came in fourth in the discus. Carlsen tied for eighth in the 100 meters and Mayer tied for eighth in the 1600 meters. Wells, Doman, Cooper, Moore, Mayer, Etherington and Meier placed third in the 4x800 relay.

“The boys showed depth, grith and resilience despite midseason injuries and the pressure of defending a state title,” Dalton said.

On the girls side, Henstrom “delivered

a stellar” meet with a second-place showing in the 200 meters, breaking her own school record with a 24.61, and a third-place finish in the 100 meters – besting her CCHS mark with a time of 12.00 – while also helping the two state championship relays.

Valadez, an “outstanding sophomore,” was fourth in the 100 meters and seventh in the 200 meters, grabbing the third-best marks in both events at Corner Canyon with times of 12.20 and 25.38 respectively, along with her two state titles in the relays.

Peterson, also a key leg on the winning relays, was fifth in the 200 meters and seventh in the 100 meters.

Other top-eight showings at the state meet were Mikelle Molen (fourth, pole vault), Maryann Carlson (fifth, discus; eighth, shot put) and Wong (eighth, 400 meters).

“Our sprint dominance stood out with four boys reaching the finals in the 100 and 200 meters and three girls reaching the finals in those events,” said Dalton while also noting the eight school records broken this year in the boys 800 meters, boys 300 meter hurdles, boys pole vault, boys shot put, girls 100 meters, girls 200 meters, girls 1600 meters and girls 3200 meters.

“It really is a team effort. We do workouts together, we are dying together, we are laughing together and sometimes we are just going through the motions but we are motivated by teammates,” said Konan, adding with a message to youngsters in track and field. “When things get rough, just keep going. You already started, you might as well finish.”l

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Corner Canyon High senior David Konan won the 100 meters and 200 meters at the 6A state track meet at Brigham Young University May 16-17 while also running a leg on the championship 4x100 relay and 4x200 relay teams. (Photo courtesy Zach Lewis)

Rockwell Community Teen Center opens thanks to support of IKEA Draper

IKEA Draper recently partnered with Rockwell Charter School, donating furniture to create a community teen center in Eagle Mountain.

By Katherine Weinstein k.weinstein@mycityjournals.com

Asof last May, teens in Eagle Mountain have a new place to get the help they need with everything from homework to food assistance thanks in part to IKEA Draper. The store partnered with Rockwell Charter School to create the Rockwell Community Teen Center, donating $25,000 in products to furnish it.

Andrea Rivers, loyalty manager at IKEA Draper, said, “The Teen Center is really going to be focused on giving support to teens and families that need resources to help them be successful.”

Rivers explained that while IKEA has a corporate foundation that contributes on a global level to organizations like Doctors Without Borders, individual IKEA stores seek to make a difference in their local communities. “We have an IKEA community impact plan,” she said. “We write a specific strategy every year.”

IKEA Draper’s current focus is providing underprivileged youth with the essentials that they need to thrive. “We know that we can’t do it ourselves,” Rivers explained. “We look to partner with other organizations, building bridges in the community.”

IKEA’s partnership with the Rockwell Charter School exemplifies that mission. In a press release, Anke Weimann-Botha, director of Student and Family Services at the school, stated, “IKEA’s generous contribution has been transformative for our Teen Center project. Their furniture and delivery services donation has enabled us to create a welcoming, functional space that truly feels like a home away from home for our youth.”

The new Teen Center has been designed to help local youth in many different ways. It is a welcoming space where teens can come to

just hang out with friends. They can also get help with school work, receive counseling, do laundry, shower and get food. While the Teen Center is affiliated with Rockwell Charter School, its doors are open to the whole community of Eagle Mountain. Rivers said that it serves approximately 70 families or about 300 people.

Weimann-Botha said that the Teen Center evolved out of the recognition that some students at Rockwell Charter School had food insecurity. “I volunteered in the school lunch room,” she said. “I saw a kid literally eat out of the trash can.” While the school already had a small food pantry started by one of the teachers, Weimann-Botha approached the administration and volunteered to run a larger pantry.

“It was just an empty space,” she said. “It’s growing rapidly, beyond what I expected.” Utah Food Bank stepped in and the Teen Center is now one of the first places in the area that it delivers to.

“I know there are angels out there,” Weimann-Botha said of the many people who volunteer at the Teen Center. Rockwell Charter School faculty members and counselors volunteer their time to help kids with homework and therapy after school hours. Students who partake of the services offered at the Teen Center also contribute. “The kids help out with cleaning and unpacking food,” she said. “They’re paying back a little.”

The Rockwell Community Teen Center is just one example of a partnership through which IKEA Draper seeks to make a difference in the community. They are also working with the Draper-based nonprofit HomeAid, which helps homeless and displaced families, by hosting a diaper drive.

“In August we’re having a diaper drive in our parking lot,” Rivers said. “We want to get a million diapers donated, enough to provide for the whole state.” Before they are donated, the

diaper boxes will be fashioned into tiny homes displayed in the IKEA parking lot to draw attention to the cause.

IKEA Draper has also invited school field trips to the store for kids to learn about sustainability and interior design. In 2023, IKEA’s interior design team worked with students at Channing Hall in Draper to create a mural celebrating diversity.

In a press release about the opening of the Teen Center, Rivers stated, “IKEA Draper believes that children are the most important people in the world. We aim to create lasting, positive impacts that strengthen communities and support the growth and development of future generations.”

“We do take community inquiries,” she said. “We are always looking for partners that are aligned with our IKEA values and that can help us make a large impact.” l

Young volunteers helped to assemble donated furniture from IKEA Draper for the Rockwell Community Teen Center which opened last May. (Photo courtesy of Rockwell Charter School)

IKEA Draper donated $25,000 worth of furnishings for the new Rockwell Community Teen Center which opened last May. (Photo courtesy of Rockwell Charter School)

By Katherine Weinstein

k.weinstein@mycityjournals.com

Historical Society will hold its annual Heritage Banquet on Wednesday, July 16 at Draper Elementary, 1080 E. 12660 South. The event begins at 6 p.m. and includes a buffet-style dinner, a raffle and a lecture on Draper history.

Lynne Orgill, president of Draper Historical Society, said, "This year our speaker will be Paul Roden who will give a presentation about William Draper."

Draper City was named after William Draper III, known to his family as William Draper Jr. He was the first presiding branch elder of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the small pioneer community then known as South Willow Creek. Draper and his extended family established a farm near what is now the intersection of Pioneer Road and Fort Street in 1850 where he grew wheat and raised livestock.

The Heritage Banquet itself is historical in that it has its roots in Old Folks Day, an annual celebration of the city's elders which

was initiated in 1898 by pioneer Willard Snow.

Every year, the Heritage Banquet is an opportunity for Draper residents both young and old to learn a little history, enjoy a meal and perhaps leave with a prize. The raffle prizes are donated by members of the community and can range from handmade quilts to gift cards from local businesses.

Orgill explained that the Historical Society changed the buffet offerings a bit this year. “The caterer had pulled pork as an option so we decided to try that,” she said.

Tickets to the Heritage Banquet cost $15 and may be purchased in advance on the Draper City website or at the door for cash or check. For more information and for the link to purchase tickets, visit www.draperutah. gov/events-programs/community-events/ draper-days/heritage-banquet/.l

The annual Heritage Banquet is an opportunity for Draper residents to learn a little history, enjoy a buffet-style dinner and perhaps win

raffle prize. (Photo courtesy Draper City)

Miss Draper and her royal attendants are focused on scholarship and community service, each working on an initiative of personal importance.

By Mimi Darley Dutton m.dutton@mycityjournals.com

Two are returning to the Miss Draper court for a second year and two are new to the program. Three are college students, one is in high school, two study marketing, and three are singers. Each of them is a student who works and still finds time for community service. They are the new Miss Draper court.

Kamryn Stuart said she “burst into happy tears” when she was crowned Miss Draper 2025. She is joined by royal attendants Skylar Zamalloa, Kianna Conrad and Myla Taylor.

Stuart, the daughter of Alex and Stacia Stuart, moved from Farr West in 2020. “I was brand new to high school, brand new to Draper. It was all new, all at the same time,” she said.

Still, she graduated a 2023 Valedictorian from Corner Canyon High School (CCHS) and is a rising senior on the Dean’s List at the University of Utah.

“My goal is to work in fashion or beauty marketing,” she said.

Stuart’s platform is called Waves of Change. After working as a lifeguard, swim instructor and coach, she realized it’s the water safety component that is the most important in her mind.

“I found a lot of joy in being able to help others learn to swim and educating them on the importance of water safety,” she said.

Stuart shared statistics to explain why her initiative is especially important in Utah and Draper specifically.

“According to Utah Water Safety, drowning is the second leading cause of death for children under age 18. (Car accidents are first.) Because many Draper residents have their own private pools or hot tubs, or they go boating in the summer or to Draper Recreation Center and other pools, it’s a very relevant and serious issue,” she said. Her Instagram account @ wavesofchange notes swim lessons reduce a child’s risk of drowning by 88%, but sadly 31 Utahns die from drowning each year and 52% of Utah children who drown are toddlers.

“One of the main reasons I returned to the Miss Draper program for a second year is because I really want to raise awareness about my platform. I was able to do a lot last year, but I’m able to do more as Miss Draper because you’re the face of the organization,” Stuart said.

She plans to collaborate with Draper’s Fire Department on their Push to Survive

campaign to provide free CPR lessons and she hopes to offer free swim lessons at the Draper Recreation Center.

In addition to all things swimming and water safety, Stuart has singing skills. She performed the national anthem at Draper’s rodeo last year. Having grown up going to rodeos in the Ogden area, she said the rodeo is one of her favorite Draper events. But you won’t find Stuart riding a horse.

“Unfortunately, I’m very allergic to horses, so I’m just there for the entertainment,” she said.

Zamalloa is a returning royal attendant. “I have loved being a part of Miss Draper royalty last year. I understood how it feels to immerse yourself in your community and make a difference. I wanted another chance to really serve my city,” she said.

The daughter of Ranch and Dana Pratt, Zamalloa graduated from the University of Utah in 2024 with a degree in Business and Marketing, and is pursuing an MBA there.

“I’m a marketing girl through and through. I love my sales classes, too,” she said. In addition to school, Zamalloa works for a marketing agency and also does marketing for an offroad company.

Zamalloa’s initiative Kostumes for Kids aims to “make sure every child feels celebrated” by placing drop boxes at local businesses to collect new or gently used Halloween costumes, then working with elementary schools to identify kids in need. Zamalloa cited a national survey indicating one in four families struggles to afford Halloween costumes. As a child growing up in California, she led a costume collection effort for a shelter for women and children who had escaped domestic abuse, so she has experience with her platform.

Conrad moved from Lehi to Draper as a high school senior. “I found a very welcoming community here,” she said.

The daughter of Tanya and Lance Conrad, she’ll be a senior at BYU studying Psychology with a pre-med focus. She served a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Spanish-speaking mission in Oregon.

“I loved living there and being able to learn about the Latino community. Their culture is built on unity and love,” she said.

While there, Conrad had to visit an emergency room as a patient, an experience that shaped her career aspirations. “I was treated so kindly. It was fascinating to see the pace of that environment and also the quality of care and how much the medical team cared,” she said.

Conrad works at an inpatient hospital for eating disorders, the inspiration for her initiative.

“Utah has the highest rate of eating

disorders out of all the states,” Conrad said. She plans to visit junior high and high schools to bring awareness to eating disorders and “help individuals build the confidence to seek help and healing and to know they’re never alone,” she said. Like Stuart, Conrad also has a passion for singing and she participated in Draper Idol.

The youngest of the 2025 royalty, Taylor will be a senior at CCHS. The daughter of Andrea and Brian Taylor, her family moved many times and settled in Draper in 2020. She likes singing and writing songs and hopes to study criminal justice at a Utah university. Taylor has her own permanent jewelry business.

Though Taylor is the youngest of this year’s royal court, her initiative focuses on the oldest. Taylor plans to visit longtime Draper residents to record their personal experiences which she’ll summarize and share via QR codes on local landmarks where appropriate and on social media.

The inspiration for her project was twofold. First, one of her neighbors is the oldest living Draper resident. Second, her family inspired her initiative.

“I was lucky enough to know three of my great grandparents. It can be hard for kids to connect with older people, so the best way I connected was to have them

tell me stories about their childhood,” she said. “The project gives Draper’s older residents an opportunity to share their incredible stories and help younger generations gain a deeper appreciation of the city’s past.”

The Miss Draper scholarship program focuses on academics and community service. Each young woman promotes a community initiative of importance to her. Women up to age 26 who are enrolled in school are eligible to apply. Miss Draper is awarded a $3,000 scholarship and each attendant receives $1,500. l

L-R Myla Taylor, Skylar Zamalloa, Miss Draper Kamryn Stuart and Kianna Conrad. This year’s Miss Draper and Royal Attendants were crowned in May, kickstarting a busy year ahead filled with city events and community service for each of the scholarship program winners. (Courtesy Draper City)

CCHS senior wants other students to know about Senate page opportunity

Senate Page Program lets young people ages 16-17 live in Washington, D.C., attend school, and work in the Senate with students from around the U.S.

By Mimi Darley Dutton m.dutton@mycityjournals.com

Abbie Bonham had such a great experience as a Senate page in Washington, D.C., she wants other high school students to know about the opportunity.

“There aren’t a lot of kids that know about the program, so not that many apply, especially for (the program) during the school year. I loved D.C.! I got to have a great connection with U.S. history. I didn’t know a ton about government or the Senate before I was in it and I learned so many things. I think other kids deserve to have the same opportunity,” she said.

Bonham, the daughter of Megan and Brad Bonham, will be a senior at Corner Canyon High School this fall. She applied for the United States Senate Page Program last July, was accepted, and spent last September through January living, going to school and working in the nation’s capital. She was the only page from Utah during her time there. The program also runs for a January-June term as well as summer opportunities.

“There are 30 kids in the entire group during the school year. During the summer, they have something like 75 kids,” she said.

A friend of Bonham’s dad who served as a page in 2005 told her about the program.

“He said there’s this really cool thing you can do and you should do it,” she said. She was sponsored by Sen. Mike Lee.

Requirements for the program include having a 3.0 or higher G.P.A. and being a U.S. citizen between 16-17 years old. Some senators require applicants to write an essay and have letters of recommendation. “Most kids write a letter or an email to their senator (seeking sponsorship). It varies based on what state you live in,” Bonham said.

The Senate page schedule for school and work is rigorous and the program has strict rules. Participants live together in the Daniel Webster Senate Page Residence with four to six students per room. Proctors also live in the building to monitor the pages and enforce curfews. Participants go to school in the basement of their building with other Senate pages, taught by instructors employed by the program.

“The United States Senate Page School provides students with a sound academic program of study…courses offered are those considered most important to juniors. All courses offered are con -

sidered honors level and appear as such on report cards and transcripts,” the program’s website says.

The pages’ typical day starts with waking at 5 a.m. for breakfast and getting ready for school starting at 6 a.m. Classes go until one hour before the Senate convenes, between 9-11 a.m. The Senate start time changes daily and is established the night before. The school schedule varies daily, depending on the Senate’s start time.

“The Senators don’t go in on Fridays, so we have longer school times that day. Early Senate start times meant our classes were only 35 minutes. Since we didn’t have a ton of class time, they would give us a lot of homework. It was a combination of working a lot and doing homework on top of that,” Bonham said.

After school, participants typically grab a quick snack, walk to a nearby Senate building for work, then take the underground subway that goes to the Capitol building. There they would work out of the cloakroom assigned to their Senator’s party (Democrat or Republican) and work on the Senate floor.

“Whenever they had votes, all the pages were required to be out on the floor, holding doors open and doing whatever was required. After votes, they would have us take the roll call, make copies of it, and take it out to all the offices including the press office and the secretary’s office. We had our own roll call cards that told us where we were supposed to go each run. Since I was on the floor 90% of the time, I was around all the Senators. I’ve met all 100, both Republican and Democrat…including Vice President J.D. Vance and former Vice President Kamala Harris,” she said.

Weekends are reserved for field trips. Among Bonham’s most memorable were Gettysburg and a trip to Hershey Park in Pennsylvania.

“They’d rent a bus and we did long road trips,” she said. Students were allowed to go to church on Sunday if they chose to, or relax or do homework.

Senate pages are required to wear navy blue pant suits with white button-down shirts and name tags. The boys wear a tie and girls are allowed only simple jewelry. Uniform checks are performed every morning.

Pages pay fees for room and board and field trips while being paid an annual salary of $3,600 pro-rated for their fivemonth employment. “You get paid a lot for a teenager,” Bonham said.

Bonham admits to making mistakes that turned into learning experiences. “It’s definitely a learning curve. Whenever we would mess up taking papers for a vote anywhere, we’d have to retry everything. Some Senators were patient and some

were definitely not,” she said.

Bonham didn’t have any favorites among the Senators. “The media paints the Senate to be super divided, but they’re really not. They’re all working together and trying as hard as they can to do what they believe in,” she said.

One big positive of the program was something Bonham was initially reluctant about.

“We didn’t have our cell phones the whole time. We had landlines in our rooms, but they had a safe they put the cell phones in and you could only check your phone out if your parents visited. Other than that, no cell phones. At first it was kind of nerve-wracking because I won -

dered what I’d do in an emergency, but once I got there, it was so nice. I feel like you can become better friends with people and not be on your device the entire time. Focusing in school and all of that was so much easier to do,” she said.

Now that she has her phone back and is back home in Draper, Bonham and her Senate page friends keep in touch.

“We have a big group chat and we text all the time. Some of the kids have already visited each other. Honestly, the best part of the whole program was getting to meet all the other kids from everywhere,” she said.

More information can be found at pageprogram.senate.gov. l

Abbie Bonham’s entire class of Senate pages. These students spent last September-January living together, going to school, and working in the U.S. Senate. Bonham met every U.S. Senator during her five months as a page. (Courtesy Abbie Bonham)

City officials and Draper residents paused on Memorial Day for a ceremony of remembrance

Draper’s Memorial Day ceremony at the Gold Star Memorial gave residents and city officials a chance to reflect on the meaning of the day.

By Mimi Darley Dutton m.dutton@mycityjournals.com

Draper hosted a brief, patriotic Memorial Day ceremony at the city’s recently installed Gold Star Families memorial at Draper Park. All the flags surrounding the memorial, one for each branch of the military, were at half-staff. Bugler Les Langford of the Timpanogos Honor Guard played “Taps.”

Mayor Troy Walker explained the ceremony took place at 3 p.m. to coincide with ceremonies happening simultaneously in the nation’s capital at 5 p.m. EDT.

Walker said he lived on several Army bases in the United States and one base in Germany when he was growing up because his dad was a soldier. He remembered the daily playing of “Taps” on an Army base meant everyone would stop what they were doing to acknowledge the music and its meaning.

Councilmember Mike Green currently serves in the Utah Army National Guard as a lawyer. Walker and Green were joined at the

ceremony by Councilmembers Marsha Vawdrey, Bryn Heather Johnson, Tasha Lowery and former mayor Darryl Smith. Members of the Draper Fire Department, Miss Draper and the Royal Attendants also came in support.

Terri and Steve Wagstaff attended the ceremony and were joined by their children and grandchildren. “I always like to go to these things because my dad was a Marine and I want to support our veterans,” Terri Wagstaff said. The Wagstaff’s daughter Alli Baldwin said, “We’re super grateful for our country and we enjoy these events. I wish more people appreciated it, honestly.”

Justin Nichols and his son James, a student at Corner Canyon High School, also came by the Gold Star monument on Memorial Day. Justin Nichols said he frequently stops by the monument. Justin Nichols is a veteran of the Utah National Guard where he worked as an analyst, but he was quick to give all credit to veterans who saw action or were “boots on the ground” rather than those who worked state-side as he did.

“Memorial Day is honoring those who gave their life for freedom. Veterans Day is for all who served, but Memorial Day…it’s the next level of appreciation. Back one generation…everyone of that generation knows someone who lost their life. It’s not as prevalent for today’s generation as it is for our

grandparents and so forth,” Justin Nichols said.

In addition to being a Draper firefighter, Andrew Botti also flies Apache helicopters as a member of the National Guard. “It’s al-

ways important to remember the people who gave everything for our country,” Botti said. “It should be more than a day, but if that’s all we get, we should make the most of it.” l

Bugler Les Langford of the Timpanogos Honor Guard played “Taps” to conclude Draper City’s Memorial Day ceremony at the city’s recently installed Gold Star Memorial. (Mimi Darley Dutton/City Journals)

Draper City updates code to help Community Cat volunteers do their work

After years of requests from volunteers who care for feral cats, Draper City updated code so volunteers can’t be charged on technicalities for their well-intentioned work.

By Mimi Darley Dutton m.dutton@mycityjournals.com

Draper recently updated city code to help Community (feral) Cats and those who care for them. As a result, the work volunteers are doing to help the cats while curtailing their population is no longer breaking the law. Draper was one of three cities in the county that hadn’t adopted or updated code regarding Community Cats.

Volunteers spoke during public comments at a December council meeting, indicating they first brought the topic to the city’s attention eight years ago. “Something more pressing always seems to come up. The time for action is now,” one volunteer said. In April, the council broached the subject during a study session to figure out the best way forward. Community Cat volunteer Jennifer Palmer came to that meeting. “I live in Draper, and I want to be able to do this in Draper, but also follow the rules,” she said.

Palmer describes herself as an animal lover. A couple years ago, a friend who knew

Palmer’s love for animals called to ask her help with a mother cat and kittens living on a farm in West Jordan. “I ended up taking care of this little group of cats which I learned later is called a colony,” she said. Palmer was able to pass the care of that colony onto another volunteer, but soon after, she found out about a colony in Draper. “They needed daily care including a feeder and a person to get them fixed and vaccinated. That’s the one I’m actively involved in now. It’s a very big commitment which is one reason we needed to get city code changed, so we can find other people interested in helping. There are so few of us and such a massive need,” she said.

Palmer estimates there are upward of 10,000 Community Cats within Draper’s city boundaries.

Palmer works with Pam Crow and others who are in contact through text and social media. Some volunteers act as “lone rangers.” Despite having jobs and families, these people donate their time and resources toward caring for the cats. “Some do this like a full-time job, unpaid, using their own money,” Palmer said. Their work goes far beyond feeding, though that’s the starting point since the cats only come around if there’s food. The procedure they follow is trap, neuter, vaccinate and release (TNVR). Volunteers intermittently set up cameras to monitor cats in a colony. If a cat has been spayed or neutered, its ear was

“tipped” while under anesthesia. If volunteers see cats in the camera whose ears aren’t tipped, they make a plan to trap those cats and deliver them to a veterinarian for care. But first, they have to count the untipped cats and have the number of traps needed, as many as 10 at a time. Appointments must also be set up in advance with veterinarians willing to do the surgery and able to handle the number of cats.

Crow explained Community Cats are prevalent in Draper because this used to be farm land and farmers often had outdoor cats to catch mice and voles. Most often, those cats weren’t spayed.

“They tear down the farms and the cats get left behind. If they’re not fixed, they’re multiplying and trying to survive. They migrate into neighborhoods or businesses where there’s food,” she said. Crow said sadly sometimes people living in apartments with pet cats leave them behind when they move. “One misunderstanding when people leave cats behind is they think they’ll fend for themselves, but that’s old school thinking,” she said.

Crow first got involved with Community Cats in 2018 when a woman on Facebook asked for cat food. Ironically, Crow said she “was on a break” from pet cats at the time after her own two cats had lived to be 18 and 19 and passed away, but she thought she’d simply help by answering that woman’s request. “When I went over to take her food, there were about 30 cats. ‘I said, oh dear, you need more than cat food. You need to get these cats fixed’. She said she had been caring for them for a few years and there were only a few at first, but three years later, there were 30,” she said. Crow said that’s why it’s so necessary to make people aware of resources and veterinarians who will fix cats at little to no cost.

“Whether you love cats or you don’t care for cats, nobody wants more cats. The problem needs to be solved with spay and neuter,” Pam Crow said. She and other volunteers spend their own money and time caring for feral cats living in Draper. To the delight of volunteers, this cat they helped has gotten so friendly he’ll soon be adopted, but that’s not usually the case, thus the need for an update to city code. (Courtesy Pam Crow)

a cat. You don’t want to harbor someone’s owned cat. If you take it to animal control, it allows them to find the cat’s owner. But when it’s a feral cat, nobody is going to be looking for it,” Gundersen said.

Crow and other volunteers “try to keep things discreet so things aren’t cluttery…we want to keep the community clean” and they “always get permission to care for cats if it’s at somebody’s home or business.” Crow also said volunteers are careful not to feed other wildlife. “We put up an elevated feeding station because we don’t want to feed the wildlife, we want the wildlife to stay wild. We elevate the food so it’s only for the kittens,” she said. Sometimes volunteers find cats that can be fostered and adopted into homes, and that is their sincere hope. On a rare occasion, they’ve reunited an owner with a lost cat found living in a colony. But most often, Community Cats aren’t socialized enough to be adopted. Instead, they’re left to live in colonies with the support of people like Palmer and Crow.

“It’s farm meets city and we’re all trying to coexist,” Crow said.

According to City Attorney Traci Gundersen, Utah State Law includes an animal welfare act with a “carve-out” or provision for feral cats. But Draper’s code only addressed harboring or abandoning cats, both of which are illegal. “The point of the harboring stray animals law is directed at residents who find

The abandonment portion was also a quandary because the volunteers’ TNVR procedure ends with releasing community cats back into their colonies. The “release” component of returning them could be considered “abandonment” under old city code, despite the volunteers’ good intentions.

Palmer praised Gundersen and City Manager Mike Barker for finally making the code change happen. “They were respectful, caring and so professional. This gives us protection, allowing us to openly feed, trap and release Community Cats without fear of being charged,” she said.

Palmer and Crow are seeking help from anyone who’d like to donate cat food or help them care for Community Cats. “I will absolutely guide someone on how to do it,” Crow said. Anyone interested in helping in those ways can email jenniferpalmer95@gmail.com.

Equally important, they want people to be aware of resources to help alleviate the problem with vouchers for food and free or low cost vaccinations, spaying and neutering: Best Friends Animal Society, www.bestfriends.org and the Utah Humane Society, www.utahhumane.org. l

APA students honor Memorial Day with songs, stories and sacrifice

Guest speakers urge students to live with purpose and gratitude.

By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

American Preparatory Academy students in Draper gathered, their voices rising in patriotic song and tributes to mark Memorial Day. The ceremony, attended by teachers, veterans and special guests, took on a deeper resonance when Sabin Howard, the artist behind the national World War I Memorial, addressed the students.

Howard urged them to see beyond the 58-foot-long bronze sculpture of 38 human figures depicting a single doughboy’s journey and remember the real sacrifices it represents: the true cost of freedom. He challenged them to honor their freedom through their actions and character, not just during ceremonies.

“What will you do with the freedom you have been given?” he asked students. “What will you do with the freedom that you have been given, and that means, what will you do with your life?”

Howard recounted his personal journey, from cabinetmaker to aspiring artist, describing how he began with a book to learn how to draw and pursued his dream.

“I started at zero. I had a dream, I had a vision, and I'd been given a gift—a God-given gift of life. How will you use it? What will you do? I decided I was going to make art like Michelangelo, Leonardo and Rafael, and so 42 years later, I made that memorial,” he said about the World War I Memorial which was unveiled last fall.

Howard’s sculpture, inspired by both veterans and his own family members who modeled for the figures, serves as a tribute to the sacrifices of American soldiers during The Great War.

That sacrifice of leaving loved ones and witnessing loss at

battles is felt during every war and conflict, as shared by sixthgrade students in the reciting of “In Flanders Field” by Canadian John McCrae and the second graders responding with “The Answer,” written in response to “In Flanders Field” by American J. A. Armstrong. Secondary students shared the Gettysburg Address and symbolic representation of our memorials, and sang, “Blades of Grass and Pure White Stones,” a song about Arlington National Cemetery.

The Memorial Day commemoration was punctuated by musical performances, including “Simple Gifts” by third graders, “America the Beautiful” by first graders, and “Homeward Bound” by fifth graders.

The ceremony included educational moments. For example, students learned about the history of “Taps,” officially adopted to

use at U.S. military funerals in 1891, which fourth graders then sang. They also reflected on the more than 1 million American lives lost in service and were reminded of former President Bill Clinton’s establishment of a “National Moment of Remembrance” for Memorial Day.

However, the realities of war don’t always end on the battlefield, as shared by Craig Hicken, a Gold Star father, who spoke of his son Erik, a Utah National Guard sergeant. Known for his kindness and generosity, Erik gave of himself to anyone, his father remembered.

“He once gave his coat to a homeless man, to his brother's dismay, because, ‘no one should be cold,’” his father remembered.

Erik was also known for standing up for others.

“He was quick to defend those who could not or would not confront their tormentors,” Hicken said, recalling how his son befriended and protected a special needs student who was bulled in middle school. “He never wanted anyone to feel alone.”

But Erik’s service took a toll. During his deployment to Syria in 2020, he witnessed the devastating realities of war.

“Erik saw war and the atrocities that are associated with it,” Hicken said. “Erik was deeply scarred in his heart and soul by the things he had seen.”

Though he continued to show love and care for others, the inner pain became overwhelming.

“He kept his selfless love for everyone around him. He was so busy taking care of everyone else that he forgot to take care of himself,” his father said.

In January 2022, Erik died by suicide.

“It is estimated 22 veterans per day take their own life, a sobering statistic that needs to be acknowledged and stopped,” Hicken said. “On this Memorial Day, we, as a great nation, should remember what this day is about—honoring those men and women who have paid the ultimate sacrifice so the rest of us can enjoy the freedom.” l

A love of learning sparks success for English learners at Draper Park Middle

Veteran teacher oversees English language development and sees noteworthy student achievement.

By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Gretchen Givone, a dual immersion teacher at Draper Park Middle School, has more than three decades of teaching experience, including 21 years in France. But when she took on the role of teaching English Language Development & Literacy I, she faced unexpected anxiety.

“I hadn’t planned on doing it and thought, ‘What if I don't do this right? What’s the method?’” she said. “I was terrified.”

During the past school year, Givone implemented Read 180, a new program introduced by Canyons School District and developed by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. The program supports students from diverse international backgrounds who are new to English.

Although she holds a degree in English as a Second Language, Givone committed herself fully to mastering the new curriculum before beginning instruction.

“I took all the classes, went to every meeting and was applying myself to do it

right; I wanted to make sure they got the best education they could,” Givone said.

Her dedication paid off. By the end of the school year, most of her students advanced from ELD and Literacy I to Literacy 2—progressing more quickly than students had in the past.

In recognition of her success, Givone was one of only 57 educators nationwide to receive the Read 180 award from among thousands of program instructors. She was the sole recipient from the western United States.

“I am an overachiever and always want to do my best,” she said. “I love teaching; my secret power throughout my life is loving what I'm learning, building those connections and sharing that passion with my students so they learn it, too.” l

Students in every grade took part in American Preparatory Academy’s annual Memorial Day program, including fifth graders singing “Homeward Bound.” (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Draper Park Middle School dual immersion teacher Gretchen Givone received the national Read 180 award for her instruction of English language development and literacy. (Photo courtesy of Canyons School District)

Hallways turned art galleries at Oak Hollow Elementary

Students explore culture, creativity and technique through art.

By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

The hallways and classrooms of Oak Hollow Elementary were transformed into a vibrant gallery as students and their families admired a wide array of artwork. The exhibits included sculptures, pop art, Native American-inspired creations, space-themed pieces, STEM-based designs, and French-style artwork, which reflected the school’s dual immersion curriculum. Patrons even had the chance to create their own crafts to take home.

“It was our first family art night and (it) was a huge success,” Principal Julie Mootz said. “Parents walked through the hallways like an art gallery. Mrs. (Megan) Wright and Mrs. (Sarah) Diederich, our art teachers, helped the students to learn about different artists, then try that artist’s technique. It was beautiful to see the school decorated with the students’ artwork. Art is such an important part of learning and we’re so lucky to have such great teachers.”

Diederich said the event was student-inspired.

“The kids love doing art, and they're always wanting to share it,” she said. “They've been working all year; they experimented with

different kinds of art.”

As part of their lessons, students created miniature rugs to learn Navajo weaving techniques. They later used those skills to craft bowls representative of the Goshute tribe. They also incorporated symbols in their artwork inspired by Piute Indograms, representing personal meaning.

“We taught them about local tribes and how art symbolizes something,” Wright said.

During the school year, students explored various artistic mediums, including textiles, markers, pencils, paint (including glow-in-thedark), printmaking and sculpture. They also studied concepts such as abstraction and negative space.

Throughout their weekly 45-minute art rotations, Wright observed the 500 students were gaining more than just technical skills and learning about different artists and their styles.

“A lot of the kids learned to put more emphasis in their art and took their time finishing it. They learned to be patient with their art and appreciating it,” she said. “Some learned to use their imagination by closing your eyes and envisioning first what it could look like. As a result, the students surprised themselves on how well they did and how creative they are. I love they're so proud tonight of what they learned and have made.”

Third-grader Quinn Quigley explained to his father, Ross, how he used a Sharpie to dec-

orate a bowl before it was shaped with a heat gun. His sister Ashlynn, a fourth grader, enjoyed the Native American-inspired weaving. Even their younger sibling, preschooler Nolan, was engaged, building a gumdrop sculpture in the STEM art classroom.

“It’s fun to see all the art they’re learning and incorporating into their studies and having

an opportunity to be creative,” Ross Quigley said.

The Woolley children also shared their artwork with their family.

“The best part is seeing all the art, mine, and what all my friends did,” fifth-grader Emma said. “It’s a fun community event for everyone.” l

Willow Springs art show highlights year of creative growth

“We Grow Together” Art and learning intertwine for elementary students.

By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Willow Springs fifth-grader Graham Willis proudly explained how he made a leaf print to his mother, Heather, during the school’s annual art show, “We Grow Together.”

“I love how kids are exposed to more art techniques and mediums,” she said. “Every year the art teacher provides so many different opportunities.”

Beverley Taylor Sorenson Art Specialist Mindy Van de Graaff regularly teaches alongside classroom teachers and develops ideas for when she has dedicated art time to reinforce the curriculum by integrating art with academic subjects.

“We see benefits in students’ retention, and they have a hands-on way of learning a topic,” she said. “We’re the only school in Canyons (School) District that does side-byside teaching; sometimes I’m teaching for art standards and other times, for a curriculum emphasis, but the kids love coming to art and having an opportunity to spotlight their projects in the art show. They do art every week and are proud of their work, so this is a snapshot of our

whole year and families are getting to see all the things they’ve learned and done.”

Van de Graaff has seen a shift in student engagement during her 11 years at the school. She meets with classes for 45 minutes about 30 times a year, creating cross-curricular art projects.

“When I started, some kids were totally disengaged. They put up hoodies over their heads, but then I'd say, ‘We’re going to learn about science today, but we're going to do it with art.’ Suddenly, I'm watching the hoodies come off and they're perking up. I was like, ‘There is power in this,’” she said. “Using art to do hands-on projects helps then become engaged and to understand what's happening in other subject matters.”

At the art show, not only did families admire students’ work, but they could also paint a thank-you card, light up a circuit robot, color a collaborative mural and take photos with Willie the Wildcat. Students also hunted for a spin art flower with eyes, a Pink Panda donut, and a textile seahorse as part of the “I Spy” contest.

Jennie Stratton came to see her two children’s artwork.

“I love the program and all the aspects they’re learning,” she said. “Ms. Van de Graaff has fostered their love of art. They’re so proud of what they’ve created.” l

Oak Hollow Elementary’s art night not only showcased students’ work throughout the year, it included make-and-take opportunities for families. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Families enjoy seeing students’ artwork from the year. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Photo by Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Amongst the 150 student-athletes playing, Draper Park Middle denies Albion Middle for a shot on goal in a game during the Canyons School District coed intramural soccer tournament. About 150 students on 24 middle school teams dribbled, kicked and scored their way this past spring for a shot at the Canyons School District coed intramural soccer championship. The sixth-grade final ended in a shoot-out, with Butler Middle edging out Mt. Jordan Middle. “(It was)

thrilling and heartbreaking at the same time,” said Taylor Hansen, Canyons School District intramurals coordinator. In the seventhand eighth-grade division, Midvale Middle topped Butler Middle to claim the titles. The tournament followed a cup format, guaranteeing each team at least three games and creating a lively atmosphere. “Schools really get into it—upper grades cheer on the lower grades and vice versa,” Hansen said. “It's fun to see the athletes get the opportunity to play multiple games and showcase their skills.”

Hansen also praised longtime Midvale coach Mitch Edmonds and his teams, not only for their on-field success but for doing an “amazing job” cleaning up the fields at Mt. Jordan Middle after the tournament.

Amongst the 150 student-athletes playing, Draper Park Middle denies Albion Middle for a shot on goal in a game during the Canyons School District coed intramural soccer tournament. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Willow Springs students pen their futures

Third graders imagine a better world and publish their dreams in a book.

By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Whenasked what she’d be if she could be anything, third-grader Sadie Preece wasn’t sure—until she thought of her favorite animal.

“I was surprised my teacher said that,” she said. “I didn’t know what to write until I thought of my favorite animal—a fox—and then I knew I’d write about that.”

Her teacher, Brooke McCurdy, challenged students to go beyond surface answers.

“I researched and found they help the environment by killing small rodents and that prevents diseases from spreading,” she said.

McCurdy’s class spent the year imagining who they’d be—superheroes, animals, doctors, artists, hockey players— and how they’d make the world better. Their work was compiled into a published class book released shortly before the end of the school year.

“I was surprised there were so many students wanting to be cats, dogs, animals of all kinds,” McCurdy said. “I told them I don't care what you are, but you have to explain the why and how it's going to better the world.”

Nadine Elbadry, who wrote about becoming a dog, explained: “Dogs make people happy; I love that.”

Students followed a structured writing process—brainstorming, drafting with graphic organizers, editing, and pub-

lishing through Student Treasures. The project ended in a celebration with copies of the book.

McCurdy said giving students a finished product added value.

“When I was a kid, some of the material seemed so foreign and I questioned, why am I learning this? This is a real, tangible product they can see and understand. It also gives them goals and steps toward those ambitions,” she said.

Third-grader Archer Burtis connected the project to his dream.

“I just want to go out and be the fastest runner in the world, but this got me realizing there’s more to it,” he said. “It starts with writing my goals and the whys and hows of them.”

His mother, Laura, saw the change in her son: “He was proud to be part of writing an actual book; he talked about it all year and was more driven.”

Classmate Penelope Campbell shared her dream of being a doctor.

“I wash my hands all the time and want to be able to figure out what sicknesses people have so I can give them medicine to make them better,” she said. “I liked writing the book so we could see how we’re going to do good in the world.”

Her mother, Tiffany, said: “This helped them all grow up a little; they took the initiative to take on writing the book and learned about the process and themselves.”

Students had favorite parts of the experience: Madison Roe liked writing, Caleb Goodrich learned to edit, Savannah Johansen enjoyed being creative and Jonathan Olguin Eisenring said it “feels good” to be a published author.

In her 12th year at Willow Springs, McCurdy said the book project is a highlight.

“It’s been fun; it’s not something required, but it's worth it, I would not trade this project for any other project I do,” she said. “This brings a love for learning and freedom in their creative process. That's important for kids and this book is what they'll remember and treasure.” l

Willow Springs third-grader Juliette Grimes wrote why she wanted to be a dog in her class book. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

High school students of all abilities danced the night away at Canyons School District’s unified prom. Canyons’ unified prom, which was held in late spring, was a memorable night for students of all abilities, according to a Corner Canyon

High student organizer. Junior Sasha Krull danced with friends and her nonverbal sister, freshman Savannah. “Everyone is having fun—dancing, wearing balloon hats, playing games, eating—and parents are glowing. It’s great that seniors from all the high schools can meet before some attend Lifetime Skills Academy together in the fall.” (Photo by Julie Slama/City Journals) l

For 140 years, families have come to trust Larkin Mortuary as the leading funeral service provider along the Wasatch Front.

Family owned and managed for seven generations, Larkin provides a full spectrum of end-of-life services from funeral and graveside amenities, cremation facilities, two cemeteries, indoor and outdoor mausoleums, cremation niches and scattering gardens.

Larkin’s vertically integrated services also offers a premier floral shop, monument, urn and vault manufacturing facilities, along with beautiful memorial meeting and luncheon facilities. Multilingual staff honor and facilitate important traditions of many cultures.

CCHS girls lacrosse team building program in and out of the classroom

CCHS girls lacrosse season ends in 6A’s second round.

By Catherine Garrett c.garrett@mycityjournals.com

Forthe second time in the past three seasons, the Corner Canyon High girls lacrosse team has earned the Utah Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (UIAAA) Academic state championship, this year with a 3.794 combined team GPA.

On the field, the Chargers were 6-13, losing to Lone Peak 22-10 in the second round of the 6A state tournament May 15. Corner Canyon was led by senior attacker Cat Faucette, who was named a U.S. Lacrosse All-American, with a program-best 111 goals this season, another school record mark of 5.8 goals per game while she is at the top of the leaderboard with 81 assists at the school and Utah’s all-time leader in 265 career goals.

“Cat had one of the best seasons of any Corner Canyon player ever,” head coach Matt Kenning said. The two-time All-State player – who also earned 2025 First Team All-Region honors – will play for Pomona College this fall.

First Team All-Region midfielder – and U.S. Lacrosse All-Academic award winner –

Sophie Jacobs, who will move on to play at Westminster, was also a key contributor for the Corner Canyon squad as a two-year captain and three-year varsity starter.

“She was our unquestioned team leader,” Kenning said. “She may not put up the big scoring numbers like her counterpart Cat, but she is the main reason that Cat is able to put up her big scoring numbers. She is an incredibly unselfish player and does whatever is asked of her. I wish I had a full roster of players exactly like Sophie.”

Also earning First Team All-Region recognition was senior midfielder/defender Mia Ambrose who led the team in ground balls and caused turnovers this spring. “Mia has had an amazing three-year run on the varsity team,” Kenning said. “She first picked up a stick as a freshman and will go down as one of the best overall defenders we’ve had here. This season, she stepped up her game and became an effective scorer.” Mia plans to play at Utah Valley University while also joining the CCHS coaching staff to assist Kenning.

This season, Corner Canyon defeated Box Elder, Clearfield, Hillcrest, Herriman, Copper Hills, Alta and lost to West Jordan, Lone Peak, Olympus, Davis, Woods Cross, Brighton, Riverton, Mountain Ridge, Bingham and Park City. “We had a great season despite only winning six games,” Kenning

said. “We improved on our record from last year and are about to turn the corner with a lot of young talent in our program. Our JV team had its best season ever, finishing 13-5 for the regular season. This team is almost exclusively freshmen and sophomores.”

Also in the Chargers program this year were Ada Andrews, Avery Berger, Tori Blankenstein, Lizzie Bradshaw, Olivia Broderick, Lillian Burnett, Katie Dinerstein, Emmie Dowland, Sable Edwards, Greta Grimes, Julia Gurgel, Sophia Hall, Alice Linford, Lillian McAllister, Kate Moffat, Julieta Mo-

Lessons learned from my dad

rales, Rebekka Morris, Jane Muirhead, Meg Muirhead, Ava Nelson, Sophie Parker, Madi Pettit, McKenna Pettit, Blake Rucks, Blue Spotted-Eagle, Madi Story, Myla Taylor, Ivy West and Josie Yee.

Kenning was assisted on the coaching staff by Eliza Jorgensen, Peighton Kimble, Cali Kassel and David Martin.

“I know I probably feel this way every season when it ends, but I am really going to miss this team,” Kenning said. “I know we have a lot of returning players, but this one still meant a lot to me.” l

By Holly Curby hello@hollycurby.com

When reflecting on the lessons that have shaped my life, my dad, Dr. James Harding, stands out as one of my greatest influences. His wisdom, faith and leadership have profoundly impacted me—as a retired pastor, former Air Force veteran, widower, and as a father and grandfather. I recently sat down with him to reflect on his life experiences and the key lessons that have shaped both his life and, consequently, the lives of me and our family.

1. The Importance of Family Over Work

In reflecting on his own upbringing, my dad shared, "My father loved me, but he wasn’t always there. He was a workaholic and traveled a lot for his job. I didn’t want to make the same mistake. Family has to come first." This lesson has had a lasting impact on how my dad prioritized his family while balancing his demanding career in ministry.

Balance work with the people you love.

2. Love and Care for People

"My dad’s deep love for people left a lasting impression on me," my dad shared. "He had a genuine passion for helping others, and it shaped how I approach life. I’ve always made it a point to carry that forward, caring for those around me, no matter how busy things get."

Prioritize caring for those around you, even during the busiest times.

3. The Power of Encouragement

One transformative experience for my dad was his encounter with a professor named Dr. Bobby Derryberry. "I wasn’t a good student, but Dr. Derryberry believed in me. His confidence sparked a change in me, and I decided to try harder."

Encouragement can change someone’s life. It’s important to believe in others.

4. Clarity in God’s Will

One of my dad’s favorite quotes is “God isn’t the author of confusion; He’s the author of clarity.” He has taught me that when we seek God’s will sincerely, He will give us clear direction. This principle has helped me through uncertain times, reminding me that clarity comes when we walk closely with God.

5. Embracing Life’s Challenges with Faith

My dad faced a life-altering challenge when he had a heart attack at 61, the same age his father passed away. Looking back on such a pivotal experience, my dad said, "I felt blessed, not lucky, because God gave me a new lease on life."

Embrace gratitude and see challenges as opportunities to grow and serve others.

6. Advice for Fathers

When I asked my dad for advice to share with other fathers, he said:

1. Live for the Lord – "Your faith needs to be more than just words; it should be your way of life."

2. Love your wife – "The love between parents builds a strong foundation for the whole family. The greatest gift you can give your children is to love their mother."

3. Lead your children – "Be the parent. Don’t let your children lead the home. Lead with wisdom, even when it’s hard."

These principles continue to guide me in raising my own children, ensuring I lead them with purpose and love.

7. Final Words of Wisdom

When reflecting on his younger self, my dad shared, "I would tell myself to work on relationships and play less. I spent too much time focused on fun and not enough on building meaningful connections."

This reminder has been important for me as I navigate relationships and priorities in my own life.

As I reflect on my dad’s wisdom, I’m reminded of how much of his life has influenced my own—and grateful how his example continues to guide me today. These lessons on faith, family, service and leadership are more than just words; they are principles I strive to live by and pass on to my own children. Life is a journey, and the lessons we learn along the way are what make us who we are.

Find more tips and insights on intentionally living a life full of purpose on Holly's Highlights Podcast, available on Spotify, Apple podcasts, Tune-In and at www.hollycurby.com. l

The Corner Canyon High girls lacrosse team, led by Utah’s all-time leading scorer Cat Faucette with 265 career goals, lost to Lone Peak 22-10 in the second round of the 6A state tournament May 15. (Photos courtesy Matt Kenning)

Me and my dad on my wedding day. (Photo courtesy of Photography by Portia)

Legendary sportswriter Catherine Garrett retires from City Journals

By Tom Haraldsen t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com

The first time Catherine Garrett considered a career as a sports journalist, it wasn’t for print. While she studied at Brigham Young University, her sights were set on doing TV. Luckily for the many readers of her hundreds of sports stories in the Valley Journals and City Journals for more than 20 years, a fortuitous conversation with a fellow writer sent Garrett our way.

But now, she’s ready for the next chapter of her life. When the high school sports season wrapped at the end of May, Garrett announced she was retiring from the Journals.

“I played volleyball, basketball, softball and golf growing up,” she said. “When my own ‘playing career’ ran its course, I doubled down on wanting to talk all about everyone else’s journey in sports. But I never thought I’d just write about them.”

Her goal was to do TV. Before she left on a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints mission, Garrett began working for a small TV station in Provo that was broadcast on cable—covering BYU women’s gymnastics, men’s and women’s volleyball and women’s basketball. She did color com mentary for those three sports and loved it. When she returned home from her mission, the station owner had passed away and the channel fizzled.

“My little girl brain had always dreamed of being on TV,” she said. “I looked up to women like Sharlene Wells and Hannah Storm, and I got to do it for a while thinking I was shooting for ESPN. Then I came to terms and realized I had to be satisfied with having reached part of my goal at least locally. I still have some of my tapes, though they’re on VHS of course.”

Back at BYU, she was hired by the school’s athletic department to help write for several programs. She also met her hus band Mike, a successful Salt Lake City at torney, while in Provo. They were married in 1997. They moved to the Salt Lake val ley and that’s where Garrett met a neighbor of hers who wrote for the Journals and told her the papers were looking for sportswrit ers. She had always loved both writing and sports, so she applied and was hired. She’s been part of our team ever since.

“There’s definitely a difference be tween sports broadcasting and sports writ ing,” she said, “but also a lot of similarities. I was raised around a sports family—my dad was a golfer and my mother was a nanny for (PGA Hall of Fame golfer) Billy Casper. He introduced my parents to each other, and we grew up around the Caspers when we were young.”

She never took to the sport of golf, but she loved chatting with, and eventually interviewing, a number of athletes. Her focus over the past two decades has been high school sports, covering many state championship teams and great prep athletes. She’s also done stories on several collegiate and professional athletes. Her writing has earned numerous awards from the Utah Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists, and scores of athletes and their coaches have lauded her work. Garrett has established longtime relationships with many schools and their athletic programs.

Part of those years included watching her three children who are all athletes “and tall,” she said with a smile. Daughter Madison, who is 6-foot-2, played college volleyball. Son Branson, 6-foot-3, played basketball, baseball and ran cross country in high school. Son Austin, who is 6-foot-7, also played basketball and ran cross country in high school. He is back from an LDS mission to Mexico and will attend BYU this fall, but not as an athlete.

“I still pay close attention to all BYU sports since no longer working there; in fact, when I met my future son-in-law who played basketball for BYU, I knew his stats better than he did,” she said.

So the sports journalist part of her life may be closing, but not her love for the games.

City Journals sportswriter Catherine Garrett with her daughter Madison. Garrett has retired after more than two decades with the Journals. (Photo courtesy of the Garrett family)

“I can't see that my passion for sports will ever die down, but as I won't be covering it anymore, it will certainly go down on my list of priorities,” she said, “at least until my granddaughter starts playing. With very tall parents at 6-foot-2 and 6-foot-11, she doesn't have a shot to be short. So it will be fun to see if volleyball or basketball win out or if she chooses something different.”

You’ll be missed greatly, Garrett, by all the sports programs and teams you’ve covered. We’re so glad you were a teammate of ours. l

Longtime

Longtime City Journals sportswriter Catherine Garrett with her granddaugher. Garrett played volleyball, basketball, softball and golf growing up. (Photo courtesy of the Garrett family)

CCHS boys lacrosse team still king of the hill

CCHS boys lacrosse wins fifth

By Catherine Garrett c.garrett@mycityjournals.com

TheCorner Canyon High boys lacrosse team remains the only 6A state champion Utah has had, having won the title each of the past five seasons since the Utah High School Activities Association sanctioned the sport. This year, the Chargers defeated Davis for the second consecutive year, this time by a score of 9-7 at Zions Bank Stadium in Herriman May 23.

In the final, the Darts, who were undefeated heading into the title game, scored a goal with three seconds left in the half to go up 5-3. But, Corner Canyon responded with a goal by senior Brock Sorenson and three by sophomore Pierson DeGracie. The Chargers defense also held Davis’ star player Luke Donigan – who previously averaged four goals a game - scoreless and gave up just two second-half goals to the entire team.

“Coming into the season we knew we would have a great defensive unit, but we needed the offense to develop as well,” head coach Jeff King said. “We had no singular star on offense, but we had guys buy into the team concept and we had several scorers and teams did not know how or who to scout be-

cause of that. Even in the title game, we had different guys step up and that is what made us strong.”

In the 6A state tournament, top-ranked Corner Canyon had a first round bye and then defeated No. 17 Pleasant Grove 20-1 in the second round. In the quarterfinals, they beat eighth-seeded Herriman 18-3 and then No. 5 Lone Peak 13-3 in the semis to reach the championship game.

The CCHS attack was led this season by First Team All-Region players DeGracie and Ashton Brown as well as Second Team All-Region’s Ren Neilson along with Jagger Gamache and Kaden Ballman with the midfield anchored by First Team All-Region’s Mike Wheatley, Second Team All-Region’s Kampton Dutton, Sorenson, Cameron Crayk, Luke Fisher, Tanner Oldroyd, Will Russell, and Miles Parkinson. “They all helped lead a balanced attack that was hard to scout,” King said.

Defensively, First Team All-Region goalie – and Defensive MVP for Region 2 –Rhett King was backed up by Jack Rasmussen and they were helped near the goal by First Team All-Region players Mason Brady and Will Perry along with Second Team All-Region’s Max McKenna, and Zack Ware. Coach King noted that those players along with defensive midfielders Cam Wade and Tanner Adamson, Second Team

All-Region players, Max Taylor, Tanner Adamson, Maddox Green, Cole Bonham, Luke Fankhauser, Perry Lunstad, Ben Andrews, Carson Cheng and Casson Hiatt all helped to hold opponents to three goals a game.

Corner Canyon’s face-off leaders Easton Daynes, a First Team All-Region selection, and Noah Dunbar “worked tirelessly

EVAN SORENSEN

at the face-off x to help us win over 60 % of the face-offs for the play-offs,” King said.

“We have a collection of about 12 statistics that we attempt to win in every contest,” King said. “These are team goals, ranging from groundballs, to clears and rides, faceoffs, saves, etc. As the season got closer to playoffs we won most of the categories. This focus kept us grounded and striving to get better each contest.”

This spring, Corner Canyon defeated Box Elder, Northridge, Brighton, Olympus, Lone Peak, Snow Canyon, Alta, Park City, Judge Memorial, Riverton, Mountain Ridge, Herriman, Copper Hills, Bingham and East during the regular season – outscoring opponents 207 to 53 – with its only loss to Arapahoe, a team from Colorado, 10-9 on April 19.

“There is much about this team that can’t be measured by statistics,” King said. “Each and every player came to practice every day and worked to get better. There was never any fighting about playing time, and the reserve players pushed us to improve each day.”

Coach King additionally recognized his 18 seniors – Andrews, Ballman, Brady, Lincoln Crittendon, Daynes, Dunbar, Gamache, Hiatt, Lunstad, McKenna, Oldroyd, Parkinson, Perry, Russell, Sorenson, Taylor, Cole Wentworth and Wheatley – for their contributions to the CCHS program.

“This senior class has left an incredible legacy,” he said. “They have been a part of state championships all four years. They have a record of 67-6, losing only three of those games to teams from the state of Utah.”

Also on the championship team were Gil Erikson, Brevan Ewing, Andrew Laker, Austin Larson, Blake Parkinson, Taft Robertson, Evan Wentworth and Bridger Zimmerman. l

The Corner Canyon High boys lacrosse team celebrate their fifth straight 6A state championship May 23.

(Photo courtesy Jeff King)

Corner Canyon earns No. 7 seed, season capped in super regional

By Catherine Garrett c.garrett@mycityjournals.com

The Corner Canyon High baseball team, seeded seventh, lost to No. 10 Lehi in the Super Regional round of the 6A state tournament May 15-16. The Chargers lost Game One 6-2, won Game Two 4-3 and then lost Game Three 10-2. “Those were definitely tough losses against Lehi and a difficult way to end such a successful season,” said head coach Jeff Eure. “We won the region for the first time in program history! Our guys worked really hard this year, and I am proud of the way they competed.” Corner Canyon was led this season by senior Andrew Nice and junior Nathan Horstmann with 31 RBIs each, senior Drew Whatcott and sophomore Jack Munson with 19 and junior Garrett Downing with 18. Senior Jacob Troast had a 3-6 record on the mound with 50 strikeouts. Also on the CCHS squad this season were seniors Logan Nordhoff and Dallon Stokes; juniors Jobie Brady, Justin Delgrosso, Joey Heuser and Tanner Mackay; sophomores William Balk, Bowen Bodily, Lincoln Eure, Maddux Florence, Charlie Hansen, Dane

Letter to the editor

Iattended the graduation ceremony for Corner Canyon HS at UVU this morning. I am an Ohio grandfather of one of the graduates. I thought the mayor’s three core pieces of advice to the graduates: “honesty, hard work, and community service” were very appropriate for the current situation we find our country in. He closed by removing his administrative hat and donning his defense attorneys hat and added “You are all adults now, so behave yourselves.” I wanted to thank him personally, but thought that a letter to the editor would be sufficient.

John Adams

Hendrickson, Roan Hendrickson, Colton Lewis, Dawson Mair, Axyl Meine, Baylor Neal, Carson Paulsen, Jenson Pollard and Krew Thorn; and freshmen Grayson Brady, Levi Hines, Corbin Mackay, Caleb Madison, James Markle, Truman Munier, Pablo Perry, Ty Radford, Wyatt Shirley and Talon Strong. “We will miss all of our seniors as they move on to the next chapter of their lives,” coach Eure said. “We will reflect on the season and figure out ways to keep improving.” (Photo courtesy Jon Clifford, All-Star Photography) l

JDCHS boys LAX beat top-ranked team in 4A state tourney and then finished second overall.

By Catherine Garrett c.garrett@mycityjournals.com

Theninth-seeded Juan Diego Catholic High School boys lacrosse team reached the 4A state title game against No. 2 Judge Memorial where they lost 15-4 May 23 at Zions Bank Stadium in Herriman.

In the first round of the state tournament May 13, the Soaring Eagle squad defeated No. 24 Provo 15-1 before a 17-7 second-round win over No. 8 Canyon View May 15. In the quarterfinals May 17, Juan Diego beat top-ranked West Field 9-8 in overtime to advance to the semifinal round where they pulled out a 14-10 win over Snow Canyon May 21 to get to the final game.

“I thought our team came together as a group and everyone stepped up to overcome being a No. 9 seed and being beat up and injured with an already small roster,” said head coach Brad Tack. “It took every single player to go on the run we did, and I’m incredibly proud of their effort and toughness.”

During the regular season, Juan Diego defeated Mountain View 18-2, Skyline 11-5, Syracuse 14-7, Herriman 13-10, Green Canyon 17-13 and Jordan 18-2 while losing to Olympus 7-0, Bear River 7-6, Salem Hills 9-3, Highland 12-11, Resurrection Christian (Colorado) 9-1, Green Mountain (Colorado) 15-8, Hillcrest 20-6, Judge Memorial 10-7 and 12-6 and Waterford 12-11.

JDCHS boys LAX finish second in state

“We really focused in our clearing and riding and just playing under control and taking care of the ball down the stretch,” Tack said. “Everyone stepped up and played to our expectations staying mentally disciplined and focused on the goal of winning each game.”

Four-year starter William Conley, the captain of the Soaring Eagle defense, was credited by Tack for being “the heart and soul of the team.” The senior had 82 ground balls and 29 caused turnovers this season.

Junior Noah Schuyler and sophomore Parker Stolz were “a two-headed beast at attack on the offensive end,” according to Tack. “They are very difficult to deal with and continue to advance their lacrosse IQ and offensive skills,” Tack said. Schuyler had 35 goals and 30 assists this season while Stolz added 46 goals and nine assists.

Sophomore defender Kai Fairbanks, who had 43 ground balls and 18 caused turnovers, freshman goalie Brayden Andersen, who had 97 saves, and sophomore faceoff specialist, who had 59 ground balls,

“They are all young guys that played a bunch of minutes and really stepped up for us down the stretch,” Tack said. “I expect them to make a lot of noise next year and do very well for us.”

Also on the JDCHS squad who went 11-9 this year were seniors Antonio Archuleta, Konrad Baker, Roman Rosano, Daniel Sosa and Zachary Szymakowski; juniors Zach Apgar, Brandon Backman, Chris Jimerson, Hunter Landers, Mario Maestas, Ethan Maxedon, Teag McMahon, Michael

Moore, Trey Nicolodemos, Cuauhtemoc Pedroza, Colton Pugmire, Liam Ross, Miles Sears, Jack Stoback and Brian Walker; sophomores Logan Child, Kysen Dowland, Alexander Stahl and CJ Starks; and freshmen Mahdy Altalibi, Rowen Andersen, Westley Buck, Stephen Burr, Jameson Judd, Mack Kesler, Miles Maxedon and Boston Patience. Tack was assisted on the coaching staff by Nathan Tack, Greg Stamatov, Ryan Baker and statisticians Jodi Fairbanks and Nicole Wigton.

“It was a great group of captains [Conley, Schuyler, Rosano and Sears] that led us through the ups and downs of a hard season including preseason early morning lifts, a Denver trip against tough opponents, a hard region schedule, and ultimately an incredible playoff run that I will never forget,” head coach Tack said. “I truly love this group and wouldn’t want to coach anyone else. JD Pride!” l

Region 2 champs take third at state golf tourney

“It

was a great season.”

By Catherine Garrett c.garrett@mycityjournals.com

Corner Canyon High junior Ashlyn Cline tied for eighth place individually at the 6A state golf tournament at Meadow Brook Golf Course May 19-20 in leading the Chargers to a third-place finish as a team.

“It was a great season,” said head coach Cody Nesbit of his Region 2 champion team. “Ashlyn has been a workhorse for us this entire season. She had really been playing well heading into the state tournament and had two great days at state.”

Cline shot a 75 on Day One where, despite a slow start, she rallied with a two-under finish on the back 9. On Day 2, “steady play” with a round of 77 helped Cline to a top-10 showing.

Freshman Megan Matsuura finished 16th with scores of 80 and 81. “She also had a great two days at state,” Nesbit said. “That has been Megan all year, just a great steady player for us. Both she and Ashlyn never get too high or

too low and they are a joy to play golf with and coach.”

Three juniors and a senior rounded out the scoring for Corner Canyon at state. Sophie Tripp tied for 40th with rounds of 88 and 89; Kate Broadbent tied for 43rd with an 87 and 93; Meredith Laitinen tied for 46th with an 89 and 94; and Rylee Reinbold was 48th with a 96 and 88. “I was excited to have Kate, Sophie and Meredith get the state experience and hopefully it will pay dividends for them next year as they compete in state again,” Nesbit said.

Also on the CCHS squad this season were senior Becca Rogness; juniors Kelley Dunn, Lilly Fullmer and Charli Short; sophomores Charlotte Archer and Sam Rogness; and freshmen Julia Erickson, Izzy Laitinen, Grace Nesbit, Navy Stringham, Abbie Tripp and Avery Young.

Nesbit was assisted by Courtney Merrill on the coaching staff.

“For a first-time coach of girls golf I couldn’t have asked for a better group of girls,” Nesbit said. “They are amazing golfers, students and young women. I very much enjoyed all the work they put in and the much support from their amazing parents.”l

The Juan Diego Catholic High School boys lacrosse team took second place in the 4A ranks this season, losing to Judge Memorial 15-4 in the title matchups May 23 at RSL Academy in Herriman. (Photo courtesy Brad Tack)

The Corner Canyon High girls golf team, led by junior Ashlyn Cline with a top-10 finish, placed third at the 6A state golf tournament Meadow Brook Golf Course May 19-20. (Photos courtesy Cody Nesbitt)

ZAP tax and why it matters to Salt Lake County

For years “coach Daddy Matty,” as he was called, coached a Junior Jazz team at the Taylorsville Rec Center. Though his own sons were on the team, he was able to impact other kids who benefitted from his service as a volunteer coach. These kids learned how to show respect for others, work hard to achieve goals and be good sports—in both wins and losses. Thanks to the Zoo, Arts & Parks (ZAP) program in Salt Lake County, thousands of young people are able to do programs like this.

You may remember voting on the ZAP tax this past November. It is up for renewal every 10 years and overwhelmingly passed with 79% support, making this the most popular tax we’ve seen in Salt Lake County (if there is such a thing). The amount of the tax is 1/10th of 1% sales tax—one penny for every $10 spent.

The sales tax is collected and the funding is awarded through a competitive grant process to nonprofits and is a key funding source for over 230 organizations including Utah Symphony, Utah Opera, Utah Museum of Fine Arts, Hogle Zoo, and Natural History Museum of Utah, as well as community parks and recreation projects, such as trail systems, playgrounds, amphitheaters and public spaces.

These funds are distributed in the following ways: Approximately 16% of the funds support the three zoological entities–Hogle Zoo, Tracy Aviary and Living Planet Aquarium. Culture and arts organizations receive 54% of the funds which includes everything from Ballet West to local community theater. It’s pretty incredible that over 200 arts organizations in every area of the county receive seed money. In exchange some of the heavy hitters must maintain robust K-12 outreach, free-day programs and audited financials.

Parks and Recreation make up 30% of the funding. This helps to fund parks, open space, recreation centers and other programming like Junior Jazz.

The ZAP tax is collected from retail sales

Aimee Winder Newton Salt Lake County Councilmember| District 3

throughout the county and has proven to be a unique way for tourism dollars to benefit Salt Lake County residents. We love it when people visit our county—they spend money here, contributing to our sales tax base, but then they leave and we don’t have to pay to educate their kids or provide other services for them.

The ZAP tax was introduced by the Utah State Legislature in 1996 and has been renewed four times since its initial approval with overwhelming support.

The ZAP distributions have proven to be more than just an investment in culture and the arts. It’s also a powerful driver of our local economy. According to the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, Salt Lake County collected $36.7 million in ZAP revenue in 2023. That funding supported organizations that employ nearly 15,000 people and welcomed over 11 million visitors to in-person events and services each year.

Few places in the country have a sales tax program like ZAP. It’s a local tax with local control, meaning every penny stays in Salt Lake County and is distributed by local decision-makers with community input.

ZAP is a unique way to collect and distribute funds that enhance quality of life for Salt Lake County. So next time you attend community theater, a Junior Jazz game, or visit the zoo, know that your tax dollars are hard at work and paying off in a big way to make our county a great place to live.

Map It Out

Remember maps? Old-fashioned, fold-out paper maps the size of a beach towel? My husband wanted to buy one to navigate our road trip through the Sacramento Valley. I stared at him for 47 seconds before stating, “We have Google Maps.”

“It’s not the same thing,” Tom said, sadly. I reminded him I have the orienteering skills of a baby sea turtle running away from the ocean. Handing me a paper map is the equivalent of asking me to decipher ancient Egyptian. Although, to be fair, Google Maps can be equally confusing. Don’t tell me to turn left in 450 feet. That means nothing to me. You might as well say, “Turn left after 850 toothbrushes.”

Unfortunately for him, there were no road maps to be found. So, with phone in hand, I guided us through Chico, Stockton, Napa Valley and Yosemite. I don’t know which direction we drove. North? West? Up? Sideways? Sure.

Road trips should be a great time to catch up on my reading, but Tom doesn’t know how to sit in silence for longer than 1.3 seconds. Even though he hasn’t lived in California for decades, he had a story to share about every city we passed.

“About 15 years ago, there was a serial killer arrested in Yuba City,” he said. “Look it up.”

I put my book down and switched my phone from Google Maps to Wikipedia to learn about the murderer, Juan Corona. But, dear reader, he was arrested in 1971. Just a touch

Peri Kinder Life and Laughter

more than 15 years ago.

Tom can hold a conversation with himself for at least 30 miles. It’s a stream of consciousness speaking that is amazing to behold. Let me give you an example:

“This is a great Glen Campbell song. Jimmy Webb wrote a lot of songs for Glen Campbell. Did I tell you Merrilee Rush was the first musician I saw perform live? Can you find yacht rock on the radio? Where does that driver think he’s going? Move over, scumbag! I’ve never been to Yosemite. I’ve heard it’s hill-arious.”

When I noticed a line of cars on our bumper, I suggested he drive a bit faster, although he insisted he was going the exact speed limit. I told him that was the problem.

Remember when you taught your kids to drive and you kept pushing an imaginary brake pedal on the passenger side of the car because you thought your teenager was going to drive you into a building? Well, I have an imaginary accelerator on my side of the car that I press when Tom’s going the exact speed limit.

But once we hit Yosemite, or any mountain range, my husband turns into Dominic Toretto of “Fast and Furious” fame, Tokyo-drifting off cliffs and taking corners at the speed of sound. I was grabbing the door handle, not sure if I was trying to keep it closed or if I was preparing to jump out if we launched into Yosemite Valley.

On our way through wine country, we stopped at the Napa Valley Welcome Center to get ideas for which wineries to visit and where to get a good Chardonnay. The woman at the counter whipped out a map of the area. Tom’s

eyes widened with glee. He used so many exclamation points, I thought his heart might burst with joy.

“Look!” he said. “She has a paper map! Cartographers really know how to draw the line!”

We did a lot of driving in California, which could be considered relationship bonding or time served, depending on the situation. Tom still swears by paper maps. I’m dedicated to Google. But we always find our way.