By Mimi Darley Dutton | m.dutton@mycityjournals.com
Utah’s HB 65 establishes cancer screening for firefighters and an example for other states to follow. Cancer is the leading cause of death for that profession.
The leading cause of death among firefighters is not dying in the line of duty while fighting a structural fire or wildfire. It’s cancer.
According to a 2024 National Institutes of Health publication, “Occupational cancer is now the leading cause of death among firefighters, with firefighters having a 9% greater risk of being diagnosed with cancer and a 14% higher risk of dying from cancer than the general population. The occupational exposure of firefighting (for both career and volunteer and both men and women) was recently classified as
Draper Fire Chief Clint Smith hugs a colleague at a press conference announcing the passage of HB 65. The bill establishes better cancer screening for firefighters and recognizes 15 types of cancer prevalent in their profession. “It was very emotional to be there with my close friends that are currently battling cancer, to take in the gravity of the situation, knowing that bill will undoubtedly save lives in the future,” Smith said. (Photo courtesy Utah Legislature)
Juan Diego sophomore’s prototype transforms alarms into life-saving vibrations for the hearing impaired
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
An idea conceived in eighth grade blossomed into a state science fair project. After further research and development, it evolved into an entry for an entrepreneurial competition. Now, it’s a prizewinning prototype that may soon be patented.
Juan Diego Catholic High sophomore Lana Chan recently won the grand prize of $10,000 for her device, which translates alarms into vibrations for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, at the 2025 Tim Draper High School Utah Entrepreneur Challenge. The event was organized by the Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute at the University of Utah.
The competition featured the top 20 projects, which were presented to judges as part of a business-idea contest offering $30,000 in cash prizes and scholarships. The challenge was open to all high school students across Utah.
Chan’s grand-prize-winning project, Sound Sense, tackles the issue that deaf or hard-of-hearing people often fail to notice alarms, which can place them in dangerous situations. Her prototype uses a sound sensor to detect various alarm sounds and converts them into distinct vibration sequences to alert the wearer.
“This will help hearing impaired people be aware of when any alarms are going off,” she said, adding it could enable them to become more independent.
Chan first learned about the entrepreneurial challenge as a sixth grader when her sister, Erin, and her teammates entered in
2021 and won with the Acti-Vest. This vest uses ultrasonic sensors to measure the distance between obstacles and a visually impaired wearer to warn them of approaching objects.
“I decided I wanted to apply with an invention of my own,” said the younger Chan. “In eighth grade, I decided to do an engineering project for science fair. When I was researching ideas, I asked ‘What are real world problems I can try to solve? Who can I try to help?’ I wanted to do something that would be useful to people and something that could make it onto the market.”
Her first prototype for Sound Sense was designed with all the components clearly visible.
After competing at the Utah Science and Engineering Fair, Chan refined the design, compacting it to demonstrate its complexity in a smaller form.
This summer, she’s planning to work on the third prototype.
“It’s going to be more compact with smaller parts,” Chan said. “The plan is to have it be a small disc device to wear as a bracelet or watch, or even as a necklace.”
She also intends to have the device tested by people who are hearing impaired and evaluated by doctors and specialists in the field.
In addition, Chan has developed a business plan for Sound Sense.
“The whole basis of my model is to make it affordable for everyone. The cost right now is about $14, but that's buying parts individually and it being full size. Once you buy mass components and scale it down, I’d think it can be a lot cheaper than that. I'd probably be able to sell it for around $20 and make a good amount of profit that would go back into the business and then also, into
my college fund,” she said. “A couple of the judges gave me contacts for how I can get it patented, and also, some feedback how I can improve it so I can push it onto the market.”
Although Chan felt comfortable speaking with the judges—having previously presented projects during her school’s Advanced Placement Seminar class and interviewing to become a school ambassador—she enjoyed the process of assembling the components to create her device.
“I want to study computer science or engineering and work in tech; I enjoy coding and designing things and building them,” said Chan who knows Python, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Java and other coding languages. “I’m planning on taking the two AP comput-
Connect social media
er science courses my school offers.”
She also is an active member of the school’s media club, senate, and participates in the wrestling and lacrosse teams.
As for the competition, Chan, along with the other 19 finalists, received $100 and a spot in the Lassonde Founders program, which includes a $1,000 housing scholarship for the Lassonde Studios.
Second place was awarded to Hillcrest High’s Microplastic Purifier team, while third place went to the Backpack Banner team from Highland High and West High. Skyline High’s GreenDream team received $2,000 University of Utah College of Science scholarships.l
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Teen inventor wins $10,000 prize in Utah Entrepreneur Challenge.
Lana Chan, a sophomore at Juan Diego Catholic High, developed and presented her device for the deaf or hard of hearing to judges at the Utah Entrepreneur Challenge. (Photo courtesy of Lana Chan)
Beyond the game: Unified basketball builds bonds and breaks down barriers
are excited, but also the partners who support them.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
On the basketball court, sixth-grader Wyatt
Shipp receives a pass from a teammate and takes the shot. The ball goes in, and a smile spreads across his face. His teammates, along with players from the opposing team, celebrate with high-fives.
“Basketball is my favorite sport,” he said. “I practice a lot in my driveway and with my friends on my team.”
Wyatt is part of Draper Park Middle School’s unified basketball team, where students with and without intellectual disabilities play together. The team was participating in the Canyons School District’s middle school unified basketball tournament.
Cheering from the stands was Wyatt’s grandfather, Doak Duncan.
“It’s thrilling to see the joy of these kids making baskets,” he said. “We didn't know Wyatt was ever going to be able to do any of this. He’s got a very rare gene where he has low muscle weight, experiences a lot of seizures and has low retention. We weren’t sure he would be able to sit up or stand or even walk. It’s a miracle he’s playing basketball.”
Canyons School District Assistant Superintendent McKay Robinson appreciates the value of unified sports.
“Unified Sports are the absolute best,” he said. “They aren’t just about the game; they’re about breaking barriers, building friendships and teaching every student the true meaning of inclusion and teamwork.”
Wyatt’s coach, special education teacher Morgann Collins, believes unified sports provide students with a chance to develop both sports and social skills.
“They get to be part of a sports team when they might not have the opportunity on, like a typical sports team,” she said. “They are excited for our basketball practices to learn how to play and to practice together. They came in this morning, screaming and so enthusiastic, saying ‘It's game day.’”
Collins added it’s not just the athletes who
“Our partners do an amazing job of making sure everyone is getting opportunities to shoot and involving everyone. They’re good to cheer on our own athletes as well as the athletes on the other team. This might be their first interaction working with people with disabilities, and as they're transitioning to being older kids, they recognize they're a partner and the game is for the athlete. And their parents are appreciating it as well. I had a parent of a peer tutor tell me that he's super grateful his son had the opportunity to be part of this team and he was able to just witness the greatness of unified basketball,” she said.
The opportunities extend beyond the court, with the school’s Buddy Club offering a chance for students to sign up and eat lunch with peers in Collins’ classroom.
“They can go outside after they're done eating lunch or they can play games they want to and stay inside. A lot of our kids are social, and the kids want to be friends; they don't see them as students with disabilities, but as equals they want to hang out with them,” she said.
At Butler Middle, special education teacher and coach Noah Filzer said his team meets every Friday for lunch before practicing drills.
“Everyone is smiling because they’re comfortable with one another,” he said. “We’re building camaraderie as a team. None of them have the same classes since they're all different grades, but they come together for unified sports.”
Filzer highlighted the inclusivity of the program.
“Anybody can participate so everybody has the equal opportunity to get out there and compete and have fun,” he said.
Eastmont sixth-grader Zacc Turner agrees, appreciating the experience of playing with friends.
“I like playing the game and playing with my friends,” he said. “We’re about to go up against my best friend’s team; I played with him last year at recess at Sandy Elementary. It’s just fun to compete and hang out with my friends.”
Zacc’s coach, career and technical education teacher Mark Snow, said some athletes were nervous at first, but their excitement grew as they played.
“Now, they’re all excited and having fun,”
he said. “This means everything to these kids. It's fun to watch them play together as a team. It was a big deal for them to represent Eastmont. They love picking their jersey numbers.”
Since basketball was a new skill for some students, the team practiced daily for 45 minutes starting in January.
“We taught them how to dribble and do layups. We talked about sportsmanship and to have fun. You don't always have to win to have fun when you play sports,” he said.
Canyons Board of Education member Karen Pedersen saw the sense of community and inclusivity firsthand when an opposing team member helped push a player in a wheelchair just to include them in the game.
“It's fun because they’re really friends out on the court,” she said. “Many students want to know each other. The focus isn’t on winning and losing. It’s everyone having that opportunity to succeed and be seen — and support one another.”
Midvale Middle School students also appreciate the camaraderie.
Eighth-grader Jose Dina said when he got the ball, he shot it.
“I threw it right up there, and it went in,” he said. “Then I got a high-five afterward.”
Seventh-grade partner Emily Wallace said cheering is an important part of unified sports.
“I like to cheer people on; during practice when we divide our team and play each other, I get asked why I cheer and I tell them because
we're all doing great, and in the end, we're all on the same team,” she said. “Even here, I’m cheering on everyone. I want everyone to do well.”
Emily often leads the cheer after each game with a loud “unified!”
Midvale healthy lifestyles teacher and coach Katelyn Parry said her team focuses on encouragement.
“Our aim is to have fun and encourage each other, whether it's our own team or the other team,” she said. “Everybody's here for the same reason, and it's to play and be part of something bigger than just our school. This is a great opportunity for our students to meet new friends, learn some skills, participate in such a huge community event and be supported by peers and parents. It’s awesome.”
Canyons Board member Jackson Lewis watched several games and appreciated the positive environment the students were creating.
“I'm appreciating how the students together are creating positive environments for their teams,” he said. “It's great some of these partners are passing the balls so everyone gets an opportunity. You can see the looks on these kids’ faces when they shoot and they score, and when they get the support from their fellow teammates, they're loving it. This is an incredible inclusive community.” l
During Canyons School District’s middle school unified basketball tournament, Butler Middle shoots for a basket against Midvale Middle. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Aquarium will host summer camps in new Science Learning Center
The new Sam & Aline W. Skaggs Science Learning Center at the Aquarium will host revamped summer camps this year.
By Katherine Weinstein k.weinstein@mycityjournals.com
Summercamps at Loveland Living Planet
Aquarium will look a little different this year with a new location and revamped educational content. All of the summer camps will be held in the new Sam & Aline W. Skaggs Science Learning Center on the Aquarium’s campus. This year, campers will have the opportunity to make art as they learn about all kinds of animals, plants and ecosystems.
“We understand that not all children learn the same way,” Education Director Ody Flores said. “This year we are incorporating art into our program. We are partnering with Utah State University to coordinate how to include different art mediums from sculpture to painting and more traditional art like paper-making. It’s all an effort to inspire our youth in different ways.”
All of the summer camps offered by the Aquarium reflect its mission statement: “To inspire people to explore, discover and learn about Earth’s diverse ecosystems.”
“We are here to educate and inspire,”
Flores said. “Our camps are not just focused on marine animals but on all ecosystems, plants and animals. Campers can discover the wonders of the ecosystems on our planet.” The curriculum for each camp emphasizes the interconnectedness of life on Earth.
Summer camps at the Aquarium, which begin in June and run through August, are geared toward children and youth ages 4 through 17. There are single-day camps as well as weeklong camps.
The single-day camps include the Ocean Explorers Adventure Camp, Rainforest Expedition, Mythical Creatures of the Sea, Eco-Warriors and Art & Science of the Sea. Campers are divided into groups by their ages and will do age-appropriate activities based on these themes.
The educational content for the weeklong camps is also geared toward specific age groups. While the youngest children can begin to learn about different kinds of animals and ocean ecosystems, camps for middle schoolers focus on more advanced subjects such as how plants and animals have inspired inventions and technology. Teen campers have the opportunity to conduct environmental research projects.
Flores explained that the camps are taught by a team of educators who are trained in how to reach students. Some have teaching experience
in Montessori systems while others are certified in the arts. “We have a few with degrees in conservation and environmental science,” she said. Some of the high school level camps are taught by instructors with advanced degrees.
The Aquarium is also making a concerted effort to make their summer camps more accessible. “Students have diverse needs,” Flores said. “We want to make it more accessible for more students and improve on that for this year.”
All of the summer camps will be taught in the spacious new Sam & Aline W. Skaggs Science Learning Center. Part of the Aquarium’s long-range plans, the 120,000-square-foot building will house new classroom and laboratory spaces, the Asia Cloud Forest habitat and a community event space.
Marketing Director Layne Pitcher noted that the expansion “makes us the fifth largest aquarium in the United States — in the desert state of Utah.” He reflected on this significant milestone as it was just over 25 years ago that the Aquarium first began to take shape. In the beginning, founder and CEO Brent Anderson taught local school children about aquatic creatures and their habitats via an outfitted “Aquavan.”
inspired by the rainforests of Asia will house a multitude of mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians and more. “Everything in the Expedition Asia habitat will be moving to the Asia Cloud Forest,” Pitcher explained. This includes species such as the clouded leopards, Komodo dragon and Asian small-clawed otters.
There will be new animals and plants as well. “Tree kangaroos are among the new highlights,” Pitcher said. A tropical underwater garden and an area where birds can fly freely are two more examples of the habitats planned for the new building.
“We are also going to have two rotating exhibit spaces so that we can have something new for our guests,” he added.
The Science Learning Center’s second floor will incorporate space for large indoor gatherings, conferences and special events large enough to accommodate thousands of guests. Banquet halls and a pre-function space are available for rental to the public. The conference space will one day allow the Aquarium to host scientific conferences with attendees from all over the world.
The opening of the Science Center expands the Aquarium’s ongoing educational mission. The new building will house 11 classrooms and four laboratories, providing state-ofthe-art facilities for elementary, secondary and university students. The spaces are intended to be used for both onsite and virtual education. The Aquarium is partnering with high school and college science teachers to create new educational experiences for Utah students.
The Sam & Aline W. Skaggs Science Learning Center will also have approximately 11,000 square feet of habitat space. The new Asia Cloud Forest habitat, a multi-level area
The first members of the public to utilize the new building, however, will be the children and youth attending the summer camps. Ody Flores explained that the Aquarium has invited other nonprofit organizations to use the space for their summer programs as well. “We are truly trying to build a community with our ZAP (Zoo, Arts & Parks Program) partners,” she said. Bad Dog Arts, based in Salt Lake City, will hold their summer camps in the new Science Learning Center.
Registration for the Aquarium’s summer camps is already open. To register and learn more about summer camps at Loveland Living Planet Aquarium, visit www.livingplanetaquarium.org/education/youth-camps.l
The Aquarium’s summer camps allow participants to get a closer look at many animals such as this boa constrictor. (Photo courtesy of Loveland Living Planet Aquarium)
Community Heroes: Roller skating coaches bring heart and soul to the sport
Meet the coaches directing artistic skaters one glide at a time.
By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Doug and Diane Adams are the unsung community heroes behind the scenes of Utah Skating Academy. Whether teaching wobbly beginners or mentoring professional roller skaters, the couple have influenced the sport for more than 50 years. Together, they have coached more than 50 national champions and their artistic roller skating teams have won top spots in the Southwest Region and Pan American International competitions.
West Jordan resident Steven Geoghan nominated the duo as City Journals Community Heroes. The 70-year-old roller skater thought they deserved attention for the good they do for their students and the sport.
“Even when I left this morning, they were trying to encourage me and tell me I did a good job, even though I have my own thoughts about that,” Geoghan said. “They’ll work with anybody and it’s been good for me.”
The Adams are more than instructors. They are advanced certified coaches with USA Roller Sports and the Society of Roller Skating Teachers. As cheerleaders on wheels, they help skaters of any age build confidence and learn to enjoy the art of skating.
The Utah Skating Academy is based at Classic Fun Center (9151 S. 255 West) in Sandy, where they’ve been coaching since they moved from Ukiah, California, to Utah in 2017. The
academy provides multiple artistic skating lessons each week for beginners of all ages and more experienced skaters with figure, loops, freestyle, dance and show.
“There were some surveys done back in the early 60s with teenage girls and skating was the most popular sport in the country. Today, things have changed a little bit,” Doug Adams said. “We’ve got something for all ages. My wife is really good at coming up with promotions and fun ideas.
Thanks to the 2024 TV series “Roller Jam,” the Utah Skating Academy has seen a resurgence of interest in the sport. The show features roller-dancing teams from across the country and one of the Adams’ former students, Josiah Bishop, competed on the show.
On Saturday mornings, the academy offers four classes: freestyle, dance, figure/loop and one-star/two-star. On Wednesday afternoons, another one-star/two-star class is offered, along with skills and drills. Mondays and Tuesdays are reserved for travel team practice.
In 1961, Doug started skating in Walnut Creek, California. He skated as an amateur for 10 years, before turning professional in 1970. Later, he returned to Walnut Creek to operate the rink then moved to Ukiah where he owned and operated a roller rink for 30 years. That’s where he met Diane. Her parents were former rink operators and had retired in Ukiah. Diane went to work for Doug and they were married two years later.
“We are an artistic skating club, which means figures, loops and freestyle, which is jumping and spinning, and dance,” he said. “I used to coach roller derby and I’ve coached hockey, so I’ve kind of done everything in skating that there is to do. We prefer the artistic and we’ve got a nice artistic club. We’ve got about 45 skaters here and our program is four days a week.”
For more information about classes, competitive teams, events and skating packages, visit SkateCityUkiah.com.
“We do what we do because we love it. We have a big love for the sport,” Doug said. “Not only have I been in it all this time, but I’m honored to be able to give back. We love giving back to the community.”
To submit your Community Hero, email hero@thecityjournals.com. l
Diane and Doug Adams have performed with and coached artistic roller teams for more than 50 years. They were nominated as Community Heroes in the Sandy area. (Photo courtesy of the Adams)
carcinogenic to humans.”
That’s why Utah firefighters teamed up with health professionals and legislators to blaze a new trail toward early detection and acknowledgement of many types of cancer that plague people in their profession. Draper Fire Chief Clint Smith was heavily involved in crafting HB 65.
“There’s been a handful of us that have really been the drivers behind getting this bill put together and passed this legislative session. I was lucky enough to be on the senate floor when that bill passed unanimously. It was a very emotional moment to see that and to be there with my close friends who are currently battling cancer,” Smith said.
HB 65 does two things: First, it expands the number of “presumptive cancers” for firefighters from four to 15. A 2015 legislative bill previously recognized four presumptive cancers. “We knew there were many more cancers that needed to be added to that list,” Smith said. Identifying presumptive cancers means that if a firefighter is diagnosed with one of those 15 cancers, it is presumed they got it as a result of their job. They don’t have to prove it for Workers Compensation to cover cancer treatment. Without that, those costs would come out of the individual’s pocket or from their personal health plan.
Secondly, it makes cancer screening more accessible for Utah firefighters, leading to better outcomes. “We knew the cancers existed, but we weren’t finding them until they were symptomatic and usually late-stage, often times, once an individual retired from the fire service. Once you find a late-stage cancer, your prognosis isn’t very good…and that isn’t acceptable. We started to look for avenues for firefighter cancer screenings, to find
it early and treat it early. We’re going to have much better outcomes and hopefully allow these members of the fire service, who have dedicated so many years, to have long and healthy retirements as well,” Smith said.
The bill, sponsored by Rep. Casey Snider (a volunteer with the Paradise Fire Department) and Sen. Mike McKell, was one of the early bills passed this legislative session. It allocates $3.7 million for each of the next three years to establish and run the cancer screening clinic for firefighters within the Rocky Mountain Occupational Health and Safety Clinic in Salt Lake City. Smith hopes they’ll find funding sources to make the clinic sustainable beyond the first three years.
For Smith, it’s all about saving lives through early detection. “Every firefighter knows either somebody that has already died of cancer or is battling cancer. We need to learn from what they have endured and we need to make changes to improve our long-term health. This bill and the work we’ve done is in honor of those that have already given that sacrifice of battling or dying from cancer,” he said.
The bill has taken several years to craft. In February 2024, a group from Utah journeyed to Arizona to see and experience a clinic run by grant funds. The results astonished those who went.
“We took this group to Arizona and six firefighters went through testing. Five of the six had some type of finding. That’s a very high number. Quite honestly, we anticipated one, maybe two. It was really a defining moment for each of us. We found out just how prevalent occupational cancers are in our members,” Smith said. Among those tested in Arizona was Lehi Fire Chief Jeremy Craft who was diagnosed with two different types of cancer and has spent the last year going through procedures and
treatments. Accompanying the Utah group was Dr. Kurt Hegmann who oversees occupational safety for the state of Utah. “He was a champion for us,” Smith said.
Draper’s Fire Chief explained some of the reasons cancer is so prevalent among firefighters. “Everything in our homes these days is made from petroleum-based products; your carpet, furniture, drapes, etc. When they burn, they put off very toxic fumes. PFAS, which gives our gear the protective qualities we need like temperature control and water resiliency, is a forever chemical and a carcinogen. Simply wearing our gear exposes us to some of those carcinogens. It absorbs into our bodies just by wearing the gear. Diesel exhaust is another known carcinogen. For years and years, we stored our gear in the apparatus bay. The gear would absorb that exhaust and then we’d absorb it into our skin,” Smith said.
Sandy City is constructing a new fire station with upgrades to safeguard firefighters, including a distinct divide between the fire truck entry point and the living space. According to Smith, some protections have been put in place for Draper City fire stations.
“We are taking as many of those proactive steps as we can to decrease risks. It’s something that needs to be done in new construction, and there are a lot of things we can do in current stations to help reduce that risk,” he said.
Smith has been a firefighter for 32 years. “I’ve told many people since the bill passed that being part of it will probably be the most significant piece of legislation I will ever have the opportunity to be part of, throughout my entire career,” Smith said. “Our bill is now becoming the model for other states around the country to look at and try to duplicate.” l
Supporting the whole student: How Canyons School District is tackling mental health challenges
Canyons School District provides help for anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Excessive worry, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and other symptoms can signal anxiety or depression in students — and they are not facing these challenges alone.
In Canyons School District, more than 200 students are receiving support at any given time, according to Nicole Svee Magann, district student wellness services assistant director.
“We’re seeing kids struggling with how to resolve conflict; they're struggling with peer interaction,” she said. “We need to teach how we communicate and resolve problems in a kind and empathetic manner and how to navigate the world in a safe, kind way. We are deeply committed to helping these students succeed and ensuring they have the emotional support they need to thrive in healthy learning environments.”
All students receive some form of support, including the district's own social-emotional curriculum, Thrive Time, which was introduced this year in kindergarten through eighth-grade classes, according to Brian McGill, district student wellness services director.
“The curriculum is focused on helping kids create self-awareness and respecting themselves and respecting others through building self-esteem, building healthy relationships with other students, communicating and understanding their community,” he said.
The curriculum also helps students set both academic and career goals, while teaching them healthy conflict resolution skills.
At the high school level, students involved in the quarterly High School Leadership Academy learn strategies related to adversity, resilience and collaboration. They also create action plans to implement these strategies in their schools, guided by advisers.
“Plus, our wellness team has lessons on things like resilience, grit, motivation and those metacognitive lessons,” he said.
McGill suggests parents pay attention to their students' mental health, considering not just their stress levels and peer influences but also their nutrition, sleep, physical activity and other factors which contribute to well-being. He emphasized the importance of discussing mental health in a safe space and offering patience and support.
While all students benefit from preventative supports, additional resources
are available for students who need help addressing challenges or accelerating their success.
When mental health concerns arise, both McGill and Svee Magann recommend reaching out to the school counselor or social worker for guidance. After the initial visit, parents must sign a FERPA consent form, as required by law.
In elementary schools, there is typically one counselor or social worker; in middle schools, there are two to three counselors; and high schools employ six to eight counselors, along with social workers and a school psychologist.
“All schools have a school student support team when they see students struggling, to help build support for those students,” Svee Magann said. “We also have a district support team with psychologists and others to provide additional kinds of support. Then, we can reach out to the community to connect students with those who do actual therapy; what we do is more related with school skills.”
The district partners with several contracted agencies to help students, with Project Connections and Hopeful Beginnings being the most common.
“If we see a student with significant issues who needs ongoing support and therapy, then we can bring them to the table, if the students and parents are interested,” he said.
In addition, the district offers seven free mental health screenings each year. Students complete a Terrace Metric Survey, which assesses mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and stress.
In the 2023-24 school year, 125 students participated in these screenings, and the number is expected to remain the same this year, said Kelly Redican, the district’s prevention specialist. She added about 30% of those students screened required mental health assistance.
“We have a lot of behavioral issues in our schools at higher volumes than we've ever seen,” McGill said. “It's a culmination of things. COVID certainly had an impact on all of us, but it’s a whole host of reasons — the challenges that come in some homes with economic disparity, split homes, kids being neglected, being abused, having difficult home lives, all of that, obviously can contribute to behaviors in school. And school is the end-all catch-all source to solve the child's problems.”
He drew a comparison to Maslow's hierarchy of needs.
“Schools and school districts are being more required to try to help support some of those fundamental needs so that we can get them to a place where they can prioritize their learning, because if they don't have a
Need help?
Here are some options for students seeking support.
1. School counselor or social worker— Reach out to get guidance and support navigating through challenges.
2. Canyons Family Center — Get information for individualized counseling, classes, screenings and resources — (www.canyonsdistrict.org/depts/student-wellness-services/canyons-family-center/) or Student Wellness Services (801) 826-5416 or (www. canyonsdistrict.org/depts/student-wellness-services/).
3. For immediate help in crisis situations— download and use the SafeUT app for confidential chat and tips on mental health or reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling or texting 988.
lot of those basic needs met, then learning in school comes secondary. Because nine times out of 10, if kids are projecting behavior at school, there's a need that's either not being met outside of school, and then we need to provide an analysis and support for both the child the parents, and if needed, get them hooked up with resources to help,” McGill said.
Additionally, Canyons Family Center provides individual counseling, student support groups, and educational classes, including teen self-esteem, anger management, emotional intelligence, substance abuse prevention, a divorce class for kids and parenting strategies for students with ADHD. Additional support services are available for grief counseling, suicide prevention, physical aggression and other needs. The center also can connect families with community resources for mental health treatment.
In the 2023-24 school year, Canyons Family Center completed 30 intakes and 12 short-term counseling sessions and they are on track to surpass those numbers in 202425, with 40 intakes expected by mid-May, Redican said.
She also said two classes — Anger Management and Substance Abuse — serve more than 600 students and their parents or guardians each year.
A new initiative this year is the IHC telehealth pilot, offered at 17 schools. This allows students to get screened at school and arrange for prescriptions to be picked up by parents. The service helps students remain at school while receiving necessary medical attention, with equipment and services donated by IHC. It is expected to expand to more schools in the 2025-26 school year.
“We've had such success with it, in keeping kids in school and working with parents who are checking of the well-being of their children at school. It becomes a time savings for parents as they don’t have to take their children to a doctor and to a pharmacy as well as a cost savings as the service is being offered free,” he said, adding that it’s also available for all employees.
Canyons’ nursing team also is an integral part of the wellness team.
“The school nurses play a very vital role in the schools as it relates to the physical health and well-being and the welfare of the child, which oftentimes can reflect in mental health and vice versa,” McGill said. “We talk about mental health, but really, it’s part of this umbrella of health in general, of the student’s welfare and wellness. Our No. 1 focus and goal is to provide wellness supports to students in school so they can focus on their learning. We want them to be safe, be healthy and ready to learn.” l
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Tell us more about you. How long have you been with the company and what quali cations do you have?
We currently have three great providers with Oaks Medical Group in Draper.
Todd W. Furness, DO, has been working in Draper since August of 2013. He received his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Degree from Des Moines University in Iowa. Prior to that, he received his undergraduate degree from Brigham Young University-Idaho in Rexburg where he graduated summa cum laude.
Breony Stoddard, PA-C, is a board-certi ed Physician Assistant. She has been in practice since 2008. She graduated from the University of Utah with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. She then went on to attend Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, where she graduated with her Master of Physician Assistant Studies on the Dean’s list, top of her class. Bre specializes in women’s health and contraception, including IUDs and contraceptive implants.
Brian Ekberg, PA-C, MPAS, CRC, received his undergraduate degree in Biology with a religion minor from Paci c Lutheran University in Washington, and went on to get his Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies with an emphasis in Bioethics from Midwestern University. He has practiced in primary care and urgent care for over 11 years in Las Vegas before moving to Utah.
How long has your business been in business?
Lone Peak Family has been located in the Sandy and Draper area for the past 25 years and is excited to have recently joined with the Oaks Medical Group. This came about thanks to the shared
vision and desire to continue providing personal and quality care to our community.
What products and services do you o er?
We cover a broad spectrum of care from yearly physicals and women’s health to illness and injuries. Common treatments include chronic disease management, management of long-term conditions such as hypertension, COPD, diabetes, mental health and cardiac issues, as well as care coordination and major disease prevention.
What sets your company apart from your competitors?
We focus on consistent care of each individual in an environment where you can have the same provider follow you along your health journey. We believe in personal communication and strive to have you interact with real people on the phone and in the o ce.
Does your business solve a problem for your customers? If so, tell us how.
We provide care and advice for healthy living. We do that through regular check-ups and appointments.
Who is your ideal client/customer?
Anyone needing routine medical care such as physicals, medication management, chronic condition management, or who falls ill and wants to feel better. If that sounds like you, we’re here for you!
How do potential clients normally choose between you or a competitor?
Our providers spend quality time with their patients as they work towards getting or keeping them healthy. What factors should potential customers be basing their decision on (referring to above question)?
Their ability to get in an see a medical provider along with achieving the desirable outcome of living a more healthful life.
Care that Feels Like FAMILY.
What is your best advice for someone who is considering doing business with you?
We appreciate clear communication and work to deliver the same in return. It helps to know your intentions and goals so that we can start addressing your needs.
What is your favorite product/service your company o ers?
We like to perform yearly physicals or wellness checkups to catch any major problems that may arise early. Bre has a passion for working with women’s health; performing contraceptive implants, IUDs, and gynecological exams. She also likes helping people with more urgent health concerns.
Where can customers nd you?
74 Kimballs Lane Bldg 2, 2nd Floor Suite 260 Draper, UT 84020 801-895-3146 oaksmedicalgroup.com
If you are a service provider, what is your service area?
We’re happy to see anyone who will come to our o ce in Draper!
Anything else you would like our readers to know about your business?
We have new doctors starting in the near future and are looking forward to our increased capacity to care for more members of our community. We are looking forward to seeing you!
Todd Furness,
Breony Stoddard, PA-C
Brian Ekberg, PA-C Scan
LONE PEAK FAMILY
JDCHS softball back with all starters
By Catherine Garrett c.garrett@mycityjournals.com
The co-region 14 champions who advanced to the third round of the 3A state tournament return all starters on the Juan Diego Catholic High School softball team with two experienced newcomers also joining the squad.
“Our starting nine are athletes to watch, most having played comp ball in the summer and fall,” said head coach Andrew Sedillo, who is in his second year. “They have played many games getting ready for the high school season.”
Senior infielder Avie Hernandez, senior pitcher Sienna Wood, senior second baseman/utility player Madyson Cruz, senior outfielder Gigi Garcia, junior second baseman/outfielder Olivia Sedillo, junior centerfielder/first baseman Olivia Jewkes, junior catcher/utility player Sarah Fiore, junior first baseman/pitcher Ellie Palmer and sophomore catcher/utility player Mattie Montoya are back to lead the team this spring. Impact transfers in junior shortstop/utility player
Oaklee Thomas and senior third baseman/ utility player Sarah Scott are also among the team’s leaders hoping to win an outright region championship this season and make a deep run in the state tournament.
So far this season, Juan Diego is 8-6 with three of its losses to 4A, 5A and 6A teams and four of those by just one or two runs. They have defeated South Summit 12-11, Millard 13-1, Dixie 10-5, Union 7-3, Corner Canyon 21-6, Judge Memorial 15-0, Richfield 9-7 and Carbon 15-0 while losing to Cedar Valley 9-7, Beaver 9-7, Sky View 6-5, Providence Hall 18-17, Westlake 15-0 and Emery 16-1.
“I feel that we are just about where I thought we would be at this point in the season,” Sedillo said. “I scheduled some good teams at the front end of our schedule to gauge where we were early on. We won a couple of games that I thought we might win – South Summit and Union – and lost a couple that I thought would be tough in Cedar Valley and Westlake.”
Fiore leads the team with 24 RBIs while Palmer and Jewkes have brought in 18 runs and Montoya 17. Other significant offense has come from Thomas (13 RBIs) and Hernandez (12 RBIs). In the circle, Palmer has a 4-1 record and Wood is 5-3.
Also on the JDCHS team this season
are seniors Abby Harvison, Fatima Hernandez and Mimi Suarez; juniors Sophia Lentz, Malena Modtland, Jonesie Palmer and Leini Tui; sophomores Taelah Dick and Zoe Perez-Ventura; and freshmen Riley Brown, Sophie Hernandez and Lilly McKray.
Juan Diego will continue play this season against Summit Academy, American
Leadership, Providence Hall, Judge Memorial, Granger and West before the 3A state tournament May 3-10.
“All in all, we have a chance to play deep into the state tournament,” Sedillo said. “We cannot take anyone for granted, but we have a chance to win some games at the end of the season.” l
The Juan Diego Catholic High School softball team returns as the co-region 14 champions hoping to go deeper in the 3A tournament this spring. (Photo courtesy Bob McClellan)
Albion claims multiple championships in Canyons District 3-on-3 basketball tourney
Albion comes out on top in boys’ and girls’ seventh- and eighth-grade title games.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
The annual 3-on-3 basketball games in the Canyons School District middle schools were fiercely competitive, with Albion Middle School’s team claiming victory in the boys' and girls' seventh- and eighth-grade tournaments.
“The seventh-grade boys’ final was very exciting,” said intramural tournament organizer Taylor Hansen. “Both the first-/ second-place game and third-/fourth-place game ended with a free throw shoot-off.”
In the sixth-grade girls’ tournament, Draper Park took home first place, with Butler securing second. Albion’s teams A and B competed for third and fourth, respectively.
On the sixth-grade boys’ side, it was a close contest between Butler and Indian Hills. Butler’s A team defeated Indian Hills’ B team in the championship, while Indian Hills’ A team triumphed over Butler’s B team for third place.
Albion clinched the seventh-grade girls’ championship by defeating Edgemont and Mount Jordan beat Indian Hills to win third place.
In the seventh-grade boys’ tournament, Albion’s A team claimed the title over Indian Hills’ A team, with Indian Hills’ B team taking third and Union finishing fourth.
Draper Park Middle puts up a jumper against Albion Middle in the girls’ 3-on-3 middle school basketball game. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Corner Canyon baseball using experience to reach goals this season
CCHS baseball begin Region 2 play after solid preseason.
By Catherine Garrett c.garrett@mycityjournals.com
Finally, in the eighth-grade boys’ championship, Albion’s A team came out on top against Indian Hills’ A team, with Butler’s A team finishing third and Albion’s B team placing fourth. l
Albion secured a win over Butler in the final of the eighth-grade girls’ competition. Draper Park finished in third place while Mt. Jordan took fourth.
‘Charger Robotics’ in 2025 FIRST
Robotics ‘Reefscape’ Challenge
Corner Canyon students compete in Utah regional competition.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
At the 2025 Utah regional FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) robotics competition, 40 high school teams competed in a three-day event, showcasing their skills. Amongst those was Corner Canyon High’s “Charger Robotics” team, with robot 5071.
The competition is designed to inspire and encourage high school students to engage with science and technology, pushing them to apply their STEM and teamwork skills in designing and programming robots
Corner Canyon’s “Charger Robotics” team competed with 39 other high schools at the three-day Utah regional FIRST robotics competition. (Julie Slama/ City Journals)
to tackle various challenges. Each year, the competition takes on a unique theme; this year’s game was titled “Reefscape.” l
Ajourney to the 6A state championship game last season has been reaping benefits this spring with several experienced players back for the Corner Canyon High baseball team. During the preseason, the Chargers have won seven of its 10 games with one of its losses to Lone Peak, a topfive team who beat them 9-5 just before spring break.
“We are off to a pretty good start,” said head coach Jeff Eure, who is in his eighth season. “During the offseason, we wanted to continue to grow and develop as players and as a program and our team is really coming together.”
Corner Canyon have defeated Roy 8-3, Crimson Cliffs 6-2, Clearfield 10-6, Canyon View 10-7, Tooele 11-7, Weber 21-1 and Ogden 19-0 while losing to Alta 4-1, Davis 3-2 and Lone Peak 9-5 before sweeping Copper Hills to start region.
Junior infielder Nathan Horstmann has been leading the offense with 22 RBIs while also striking out seven batters on the mound in pitching appearances. Others contributing extensively at the plate have been sophomore outfielder Jack Munson, senior first baseman Andrew Nice, sophomore infielder Lincoln Eure, senior first base-
man Logan Nordhoff and junior outfielder Garrett Downing. On the mound, senior right-handed pitcher Jacob Troast leads in strikeouts with 24. Sophomore right hander Carson Paulsen has 14 strikeouts and a 2-0 record, Nice – a lefty – has nine strikeouts and a 1-1 record and senior Dallon Stokes is 1-0 with four strikeouts.
“Pitching and defense will be the keys to our success as we enter Region play,” Eure said.
Also on the CCHS team this season are senior outfielder Drew Whatcott; juniors Jobie Brady, Justin Delgrosso, Joey Heuser and Tanner Mackay; sophomores William Baik, Bowen Bodily, Maddux Florence, Charlie Hansen, Dane Hendrickson, Roan Hendrickson, Colton Lewis, Dawson Mair, Axyl Meine, Baylor Neal, 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.
Eure is being assisted this season by Dusty Haycock, Craig Goff, David Waung, Zak Felix, Hayes Hall and Chris Paulsen.
The Chargers will also face Copper Hills, Herriman, Bingham, Riverton and Mountain Ridge in Region 2 play before the 6A state tournament runs from May 1524.
“Our goal for the season is to come together as a team and play our best baseball in May, so hopefully we can be at our best come tournament time,” Eure said.l
Corner Canyon High senior left-handed pitcher/first baseman Andrew Nice has recorded seven strikeouts while being one of the team’s offensive leaders at the plate with five RBIs so far this season. (Photo courtesy All-Star Photography)
Mayor had a large legislative lobbying role as president of Utah League of Cities and Towns
Tired of cities being blamed for the housing crisis, Mayor Troy Walker lobbied the legislature as president of the Utah League of Cities and Towns.
By Mimi Darley Dutton m.dutton@mycityjournals.com
Draper Mayor Troy Walker has been vocal about his anger toward the Utah Legislature for asserting power over cities in recent years. “It’s been a constant march against local land use authority for a solid eight or nine years,” he said. The legislature has devised ways to punish cities who don’t cooperate with their rulings. However, serving as president of the Utah League of Cities and Towns (ULCT) this year gave Walker greater influence over the bills being crafted and which ones passed or failed.
“Being president of the League puts you front and center in the legislative process,” he said.
Walker described “an overriding narrative” from the Legislature that the housing crisis is primarily, if not exclusively, the problem of local governments. “Every year, they pass multiple bills aimed at trying to fix the housing crisis by taking away local authority for zoning and land use, despite data the League gathered two years ago showing that 190,000-plus entitled units (land for which zoning is in place and all that’s needed is a building permit) aren’t being built because the economics must not work for it. To blame local governments…as a local leader, I’m tired of it,” he said.
Walker is convinced the factors creating the housing crisis are beyond local and state control. “It’s the cost of labor and supplies and everything I don’t control as a mayor that makes a house cost $900,000. Every city in the state is zoning for density and more affordable homes,” he said.
Walker said developers realized years ago it’s cheaper to change laws by lobbying the legislature than it is fighting cities on zoning issues. So, developers hire lobbyists, and because many people serving in the legislature (many of whom are part of the development industry themselves) haven’t served in city government, it’s been problematic for cities. That’s where Walker’s position as ULCT president proved powerful, because lobbying is the purpose of the organization. Instead of hiring lobbyists, the ULCT’s leaders do the lobbying themselves on behalf of the 255 member cities. As president, Walker was at the legislature every day of the session. He described the ULCT’s approach
as coming from a cooperative angle. “Our phrase is partnership, not pre-emption. We will negotiate on bills that are coming at us in ways that make it better to come to a compromise. We get our perspective in there to help them make sense of how better to execute it at the local level,” he said.
Walker is generally pleased with how this legislative session ended where cities are concerned. “We worked on a compromise on the way gravel operators can expand. We were rightly concerned with the Beehive Development bill because it would have given that agency carte blanche to do a development anywhere they wanted to, for the state to do a project like a nuclear power plant. It got tabled, but there’s no question it will come back.”
The legislature attempted to take over public safety for Salt Lake City and Walker is pleased local control for police departments prevailed. A bill aimed at downsizing The Point’s board which would have taken away Walker’s vote regarding that state development within Draper city limits was negotiated so that he and Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson remain voting board members. “We were able to make sure we kept governance around The Point intact to make sure Draper’s voice is being heard,” he said.
Walker was also pleased with freshman legislator Rep. Cal Roberts who previously served on the Draper City Council. “It was good to have him there because he has that perspective. We need more people in the legislature that have served in local government, in my opinion,” Walker said.
On a personal note, Walker was “completely unhappy” the legislature tried to do away with vote by mail. He wishes it would have been left alone, but he’s Ok with the way it came out. He said he “didn’t spend any energy” on the collective bargaining bill because it wasn’t city specific and Draper’s firefighters aren’t unionized.
“Personally, I haven’t delved into both sides of it,” he said. As a practicing attorney for 29 years, he offered an opinion on attempts by the legislature to modify the state’s judicial branch. “I was 100% opposed to the concept of the legislature having a judicial performance review. I think our judiciary in Utah is exceptional, and a separate judicial branch is important to democracy,” he said.
Despite it being a decent session where local land use control is concerned, Walker feels legislative overreach and the number of laws they produce has gotten out of hand. “They passed 589 bills this year, the second most in the history of the state, and they do it in 45 days. It’s ridiculous in my opinion, and a lot of the
controversial ones get passed in the last days,” he said.
Walker’s term as ULCT president ends in September after which he’ll serve one year as immediate past president. He can only be part of the League as long as he’s an elected official, and the position of Draper mayor will be on this November’s ballot.
“I really enjoy doing the job, and I feel like I’m still being effective,” he said. “I’m very interested in seeing The Point get solidified into Phase One. I’m running again…for a fourth term. I feel like I’ve got more to give and some good institutional knowledge.” l w
L-R Sen. Kirk Cullimore, Mayor Troy Walker and Rep. Cal Roberts at a February Town Hall. A proposed bill this legislative session sought to shrink the size of The Point’s board and would have taken away Walker’s vote representing Draper’s interests in that state development within city limits. In the end, Walker retained his voting position on the board. “I want to give Cullimore and Roberts credit for that,” Walker said. (Mimi Darley Dutton/City Journals)
Police Department’s award-winning Special Victims Unit does difficult but necessary work
Both of Draper Police Department’s Special Victims Unit detectives have been recognized with several awards for their skilled and compassionate work.
By Mimi Darley Dutton m.dutton@mycityjournals.com
Within its ranks, Draper Police Department has its own Special Victims Unit (SVU), a specialized branch focused on cases involving vulnerable or high-risk victims including children, the elderly, or people with disabilities. “Draper is a safe community, but we do have significant, sometimes major crimes,” Draper Mayor Troy Walker said.
Draper’s SVU is made up of two award-winning detectives, Bryce Okland and Anna Adrignola.
Okland was named 2025 Officer of the Year by the Utah Chiefs of Police Association for his work on a child abuse case. “When he gets a case against children, he does everything to try to find justice for these victims,” Draper Police Chief Rich Ferguson said. According to Ferguson, Okland was recognized because of his tenacity, his investigative skills, and because he trusted his gut instincts to advocate for young victims.
The Draper City Council recognized Okland for his Officer of the Year award at an April meeting. He received a standing ovation among those in council chambers as well as handshakes, hugs and pats on the back from his fellow officers. “He is very deserving of the award. He’s done tremendous, amazing work,” the mayor said.
Okland has been an officer for 14 years, five with Draper PD, and two and a half of
those years as a SVU detective. He has also received the Meritorious Service award and the Distinguished Service Award. In addition to his work for Draper’s SVU, he’s a member of the Officer-Involved Critical Incident protocol team and the South Valley Crisis Negotiation Team.
Okland’s SVU colleague is an award-winning detective in her own right. Adrignola has been investigating SVU cases for three years. She has worked with the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and was awarded their New Officer of the Year in 2023. She received an Outstanding Service Award from the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office for her work with the Multi-Disciplinary Team in 2023. She’s also been recognized for her contributions to Holly’s Home, a Draper-based organization that helps young women transition out of polygamy.
In April, Adrignola received the Sexual Assault Awareness Month Award from the Utah Coalition Against Sexual Assault. She’s also been honored with Draper’s Salute the Blue Award in 2021 and was named Draper Officer of the Year in 2022. “She is an invaluable asset to the Draper Police Department and the city is fortunate to have her investigating these delicate cases,” Okland said.
The two dedicated Draper SVU detectives are aided by an internal investigative unit with additional detectives when needed.
“We also have an incredible Victim Advocate, Rachel Miller, who provides essential support to victims of all crimes,” Okland said. The city has had a detective assigned to SVU-related cases for more than 10 years. For the past five years, two detectives have been assigned to these difficult cases.
Because of the sensitive nature of the work, SVU detectives go through specialized training. According to Okland, both he and Adrignola have received training in advanced sexual assault investigations, trauma-informed victim interviewing and forensic interviewing.
In 2023, Okland said he and Adrignola investigated 223 cases, screened 51 cases with the District Attorney’s Office, one case with the Attorney General’s Office, and one case with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. “As SVU detectives, we handle highly sensitive cases including rape, sexual assault, voyeur-
ism, lewdness, child sexual abuse material and child abuse,” he said.
“It’s always nice when members of our department are recognized for the professional work they do. We are fortunate in Draper to have two of the most skilled, dedicated and compassionate detectives who represent our most precious citizens, our children. I am proud of Detectives Okland and Adrignola. They represent our department well,” Ferguson said.
“We are well-served in our community for sure,” the mayor said. l
Leimana Fager wins national championship, five wrestlers earn All-American status
By Catherine Garrett c.garrett@mycityjournals.com
Corner Canyon’s Leimana Fager (fourth from left) won the national championship in the juniors 215-pound division at the USA Wrestling Folkstyle Nationals in Des Moines, Iowa, March 14-16. Five other Corner Canyon wrestlers – (from left to right) London McEntire, Piper Eller, Clarion Fager, Leimana Fager, Kaydon Williams and Tanner Telford – earned All-American status at nationals. Clarion Fager finished fifth in
the juniors 170-pound weight class while Williams (juniors, 285 pounds), Telford (juniors, 126 pounds) and Eller (16-and-under, 100 pounds) placed sixth and McEntire was eighth in the 16-and-under 140-pound division. “They all wrestled great,” said CCHS assistant coach John Fager, noting that Melana Fager and Blake Mauch also competed and were one match away from placing at the national tournament. (Photo courtesy John Fager) l
Draper Detective Bryce Okland was named 2025 Officer of the Year by the Utah Chiefs of Police Association. Okland is one of two detectives in Draper Police Department’s Special Victims Unit. Pictured L-R are Lt. Willie, Police Chief Ferguson, Det. Okland, Lt. Elkins and City Manager Mike Barker. (Courtesy Draper Police Department)
New boys lacrosse coach aims to keep Corner Canyon at the top
demonstrated in multiple ways and coach King has been a stalwart leader.”
By Catherine Garrett c.garrett@mycityjournals.com
The new Corner Canyon High boys lacrosse head coach Jeff King has been deeply entrenched in the Chargers successful program that has won the 6A title each year since the sport was sanctioned by the Utah High School Activities Association.
“I am really excited to start molding this team,” King said, who was an assistant three years before lacrosse was upgraded from its club status in the state. “Every year offers new challenges and opportunities for teams to develop both on the field and off the field as young men.”
“Coach King brings a wealth of knowledge of the game and familiarity with Corner Canyon lacrosse to the position of head coach,” said CCHS Athletic Director Patrick Thurman. “While no change is seamless, Jeff and his staff have hit the ground running and the early success is evident of the continued emphasis on playing the game hard and playing it with respect. And, in light of the many devastating events that have hit the program over the past couple of years, the entirety of the Corner Canyon lacrosse program has shown its strength and care for each other. The brotherhood has been
The Draper resident – who grew up in New York – was an extremely accomplished lacrosse player in his own right, having won three national championships at Hobart College during his time there. In 1998, he stayed in New York and began assisting on the West Genessee High School coaching staff and then spent 14 years at State College High School in Pennsylvania, amassing a 143-100-1 record. He brought his family to Draper in 2017 where he has helped the Chargers program since and where he has been able to coach his four sons.
King has been driven in coaching by “the challenges of molding a team” and has found “developing relationships that last a lifetime.”
“Every player has a role and my job is to help players define their roles within the team,” he said. “We spend a good amount of time focusing on mastering fundamentals and applying those to game situations.”
The boys team has lost just five games over the past four years, during which time they have taken home the state championship each spring beginning with the 2021 season. The dominance has continued early in the season as the No. 1 Chargers are 8-0, outscoring its opponents 96 to 35.
“We have a good mix of seniors and younger players that will make this an exciting year,” King said. l
New CCHS boys lacrosse coach Jeff King poses with his son Rhett King. (Photo courtesy Jeff King)
New coach takes over successful JDCHS girls golf program
The JDCHS girls golf team welcomes new coach.
By Catherine Garrett c.garrett@mycityjournals.com
The Juan Diego Catholic High School girls golf team has finished in the state’s top three 3A programs the past three seasons, including a historic runner-up finish in 2024. This season, the Soaring Eagle group hope to continue its successful play with a new coach in Kyler Herdt, who has been helping to build the Draper-based APEX GOLF brand the past several years.
“I couldn't be more excited to be coaching the girls at Juan Diego! I got incredibly lucky to get the opportunity to coach this team,” Herdt said. “I love working with people of all ages, but working with the future of golf is truly a rewarding experience. If I just knew a tiny fraction of what I know now as a junior, I feel like my game would have gotten into a much better spot, much sooner. So, the chance to help the youth to develop good habits, teach them about the fundamentals, and learn the game, and save them hours, even years of time when it comes to playing their best golf is one of the best ways I feel I can give back to this game that's given me so much.”
“Coach Kyler is an energetic young coach with exceptional knowledge of the game,” said JDCHS Athletic Director Danny Larson. “He is an amazing teacher, and we are excited to see where he takes the program.”
Herdt got into golf at the age of 12, despite declaring at a young age that “golf’s not even a sport” as his early interest was in basketball and baseball when he was inspired to try it out after watching Tiger Woods historic 15-stroke win at the 2000 U.S. Open.
“I thought this guy makes golf look cool, fun and exciting,” Herdt said. “Basically, I’ve been hooked ever since. It’s without a doubt the greatest game I’ve ever played, and I’m surrounded by it every day, but yet I’m just as hooked on it today as I was 25 years ago.”
As a 13 year old, he won a junior club championship at Swan Lakes Golf Course before playing as a 78-pound freshman on the Clearfield High golf team. “I was 100 pounds lighter than most of the kids on the team and 100 yards shorter off the tee, but I figured out how to scrap, scramble, score and use golf course management to compete,” he said.
He then moved to Texas and played his final two years at The Woodlands High School, making the junior varsity team his junior year on a “stacked” team that won state consistently and were led by players like Patrick Reed, a future Masters champion.
He attended the San Diego Golf Academy of America to pursue a career in golf and graduated in 2010 with an applied business degree in Golf Course Operations and Management in 2010 while learning about club repair, teaching and coaching, tournament play,
coordinating and scheduling tournaments, and golf retail operations. “I didn't know exactly what I wanted to do long term with golf, I just knew I loved it, and I wanted to make golf a career,” Herdt said. He began working for the Schnieter family in Davis County and worked as a greenskeeper until he was hired by Corey Butler at GOLFTEC in Park City to become a full-time instructor for four years. “I gained a ton of experience there and learned so much. I’ll always be grateful for my time there,” Herdt said.
Herdt followed Butler to help start up APEX GOLF, a teaching and fitting facility in Draper that has also expanded into a second Salt Lake location. “It’s been awesome to build the APEX brand, do what I love, with a team that’s been intact for basically seven years now,” Herdt said. “I’m very grateful and proud of the culture and environment we’ve built. I’m pretty lucky – I help people play better golf every day. My true passion is helping people, and I want to help people learn, develop, grow and have as much fun as possible. Golf has been a huge blessing for me to be able to utilize these talents. The golf gods must’ve been looking out for me. I feel very fortunate to do what I do every day.”
The new JDCHS girls golf coach emphasizes life lessons to his players that are learned through the sport. “Handling pressure, rising above, staying focused on the present, and worrying about what you can control are all mental parts of the game that these girls will carry with them throughout the rest of their lives,” Herdt said. “The amount of parallels to golf and life are unparalleled. Golf has a way of bringing out all of ourselves with all of our inner strengths and weaknesses coming out through the game.”
JDCHS sophomore captain Isabella Werner and the “one-two punch twin sis combo” of Sabrina and Camila Macias return to lead the team this season. “We have some amazing talent,” Herdt said, also noting an “almost
With the recent success of the program, continued high goals and expectations have become the norm on the Draper campus. “I think if we just continue to get better, look at ourselves after each week and each time we compete and we focus on the process, the results will take care of themselves,” Herdt said. “Honestly, I think the sky is the limit with these girls. I think we have the core and the pieces to win a state championship.”
In the first Region 14 tournament this season at Glendale March 24, Juan Diego shot a team score of 330 with Isabella Werner’s 77 leading the team. Other 18-hole scores for the Soaring Eagle squad were Ava Werner (82), Burt (84), Sabrina Macias and Camila Macias (85), Martinez (120) and Rendon (128).
second set of twins” in freshmen Ava Werner and Alexis Burt are going to be “a force to reckon with.”
Juniors Vanessa (Tatiana) Martinez and Peyton McCoy have recently begun playing golf and Herdt is “super excited to see how much damage we can do in the next two seasons” with them. Also on the team this season are sophomore Alyeska Morales and freshman Rorie Rendon.
At Mountain View Golf Course March 26, Sabrina Macias shot a 72 to win medalist honors in helping Juan Diego shoot a team score of 308 to place first as a team. Also in the top-10 were Ava Werner (second, 77), Isabella Werner (tied for third, 78), Camila Macias (fourth, 81) and Burt (fifth, 88). Morales shot a 117 and Martinez had a 120.
Following the remaining of the Region 14 golf schedule at Riverbend, Sun Hills (twice) and Mountain View, the 3A state tournament will be held May 7-8 at Lakeside Golf Course in Bountiful. l
The Juan Diego Catholic High School girls golf team has taken first place in its first two region tournaments this spring. (Photo courtesy Kyler Herdt)
Comcast RISE to award millions in small business grants
Utah
By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Getting a small business off the ground, or scaling to the next level, takes more than hustle and passion. It takes resources. A small business grant can be the difference between success and failure, and Comcast is investing in success.
The Comcast RISE program will award comprehensive grant packages to 100 small businesses in Bluffdale, Draper, Herriman, Riverton, Sandy, South Jordan, West Jordan and White City. Through May, Comcast will accept applications from small business owners who are committed to growing their companies, lifting their communities and inspiring the next generation.
“The Comcast RISE program will deliver innovative and impactful resources that will make a lasting impact on small businesses in Utah. Supporting small businesses is crucial for economic development and ensuring that the backbone of our communities can thrive,” said J.D. Keller, senior vice president of Comcast’s Mountain West Region. “Among the many things
we all love about Utah is our vibrant small businesses and Comcast’s commitment to supporting them.”
Each grant includes a technology makeover (with digital services for one year), access to online entrepreneurship courses, coaching sessions, a business assessment and $5,000. Grant recipients will also receive a professionally produced TV commercial and media strategy consultation.
Scott Cuthbertson, president/CEO of the Economic Development Corporation of Utah, said small businesses are the foundation of the state’s economy. More than 90% of companies in Utah are considered small businesses, run by families, friends and neighbors. He said it’s essential that these businesses succeed.
“Comcast is such a valued partner,” Cuthbertson said. “They make critical investments in our infrastructure and we think they’re exemplary about how they invest back into the community, in particular, through this RISE program that provides needed support to our small business owners.”
Andrea Benitez is the fundraising manager at Suazo Business Center, which offers resources for economically disadvantaged businesses. Through education, workshops,
and access to capital, the center has helped launch hundreds of small businesses, generating millions of dollars in revenue.
Benitez’s clients include minority and underserved populations who need direction for creating a business. They might not qualify for a loan or don’t want to go into debt to fund their dreams, so the Comcast RISE program could be a game changer for these struggling entrepreneurs.
“This Comcast grant is just a great opportunity for them to apply and help their business grow,” Benitez said. “We have lots of clients in that part of the valley and we’re going to help them apply for this grant.”
Diana Lopez owns Cakes by Edith, a popular bakery with two locations in the Salt Lake Valley. As a small business owner, she understands the obstacles faced by entrepreneurs and the many hats they have to wear to keep their businesses running.
As Cakes by Edith grows, Lopez hopes to expand to a third location where she can continue to carry on her family’s legacy. She said if she’s awarded the Comcast RISE grant, she’ll use the funds for marketing and equipment.
“There are so many trends in the baking industry and we’re trying to stay current with everything in the baking world,” Lopez said. “This opportunity with Comcast would provide for businesses in the area. For us, honestly, we would love that opportunity.”
The southern end of Salt Lake County has seen significant growth during the last decade and is geared for more expansion. The South Valley Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Salt Lake Community College, offers a 10-week entrepreneurial program to help small business owners find resources for success.
Jay Francis, president/CEO of the South Valley Chamber of Commerce, said small business owners face myriad challenges as they try to get an idea off the ground and that this Comcast RISE program could give them the momentum they need to create something big.
“If a business is fortunate enough to be able to receive one of these grants, I think that’s huge. It’s a real lift and a real boost,” Francis said. “I appreciate Comcast and I think more opportunities need to be afforded to small businesses. This fits in really well with things that we’re focusing on as a Chamber.”
Utah is one of five regions to receive 100 Comcast RISE small business grants this year. Recipients from Salt Lake, Boston, Grand Rapids, Nashville and Seattle will join the 14,000 entrepreneurs nationwide who have been supported through the program since it launched in 2020. For more information, visit www.ComcastRISE.com. l
Small business owners in Salt Lake County can turn possibility into progress with help from a Comcast RISE grant. (Photo courtesy of Comcast)
Peri Kinder Life and Laughter I was born with the fashion sense of a platypus: lots of assorted parts coming together but nothing cohesive, nothing you could call style.
It’s not that I haven’t tried to dress nice. I even did some fashion research and read an article that said I should find clothing that fits my personality to feel confident about my wardrobe. My personality is a cross between a hibernating bear and a librarian, so I guess I should wear furry blankets and mustard-colored cardigans? Done.
The article also said to implement different colors and patterns, and not to be afraid to get out of my comfort zone. But my comfort zone is so comfy. Hence the name.
For a long time, my fashion palette consisted only of black; or gray, if the occasion called for levity. Walking through the grocery store, I was often mistaken for a murder of crows, but that might have been because of all the flapping and squawking.
So, I banned black from my closet, except for 13 black blouses because you never know when you’ll attend a My Chemical Romance concert. Then I decided any new clothes I purchased couldn’t be black. Now my closet is filled with a rainbow of dark navy, charcoal, espresso and eggplant for when I’m feeling whimsical.
Out of Style
The article suggested trying different styles. Trendy boxy tops look adorable on the pages of fashion magazines but turned me into SpongeBob. Maybe I should stop wearing striped socks with squeaky black shoes and white laces.
I just don’t know how to look effortlessly stylish although Vogue breaks it down into 79 manageable steps. I stopped reading after the one step suggested I wear one thing that scares me. Crocs are the most frightening thing I could think of. Nope.
Once, I was working at an event and was given a T-shirt to wear. I threw on a pair of shorts and called it good. My coworker showed up in her T-shirt matched with cute capris, colorful espadrilles and a rakish beret. I felt like Gollum standing next to her.
If I have to attend any social event, I get fashion paralysis, completely incapable of choosing an outfit. If the event is really fancy, I’ll spend at least 47 days riddled
with anxiety about what to wear. My husband says, “Go buy something new,” but that makes it even worse because trying on clothes is a torture device invented during the Spanish Inquisition.
First, the options are overwhelming. Second, what if I choose something too dressy? I don’t want to look like a wedding cake if the event calls for shortbread. Third, I want my clothes to feel comfy, which is the complete opposite of style. No wonder fashion models always look so angry.
The one area in fashion that I do shine is footwear because Chuck Taylors can be worn with anything. Barefoot is also an option I employ from May through October. (By Halloween, the soles of my feet are as tough as a Kevlar and as grungy as a music festival’s porta-potty.)
Oscar Wilde, my style guru, said, “Fashion is a form of ugliness so intolerable that we have to alter it every six months.”
If every fashion trend comes back again, I’ll just stick with what I love: clothes that hide salsa stains and are super soft. Anna Wintour would have some disparaging glances to throw my way but it’s better than my platypus fashion that looks like I just crawled out of a swamp.
