Draper Journal | April 2023

Mimi

Ajudge must consider carefully, form an evaluation (often quickly), and decide authoritatively. Draper’s new judge Lisa Garner adds compassion to that equation.

Garner is the first female behind the bench in Draper’s Justice Court and it’s her first time serving as a judge, but she has 25 years accumulated experience in the legal profession. She replaced Daniel Bertch who retired in 2022 after serving the city for 30 years.

Mayor Troy Walker, an attorney himself, has encountered Garner in courtrooms. “She has a broad background. She’s seen and done just about everything in the law. She’s well respected and everyone said tremendous things about her. I’ve worked with her before on cases and have had the pleasure of her being fair and decent,” Walker said.

Garner is a graduate of the University of Utah and BYU Law School. She has worked

Lisa Garner was selected as Draper’s new judge after a months-long process that included review by a nominating commission, opportunities for public comment,

as a paralegal, a public defender, in the private sector doing criminal defense, and in civil practice doing title insurance, real estate and contract law. Most recently, she served as City Attorney/City Prosecutor for Midvale.

Once a single mom, Garner worked for a period of time in private practice for better pay, but her varied experience clarified what she ultimately wanted to do. “When I worked at Salt Lake Legal Defenders Association, it was very confirming that I wanted to be a

“Dozens of doctors told me that there was nothing more that they could do to expect to be in a wheel chair. I went from the top 1% in the army Special Forces to being in so much pain that I could not tie my shoe or hold my new daughter. I did physical therapy and pain killers for years, but nothing worked. Finally, I went to Dr. Smith and I improved exactly as he told me I would. I couldn’t believe it! My wife cried, “I have my husband back.”

—Steve M., Army Special Forces

Smith D.C. CSCS Chiropractic Physician

Draper Visual Arts Foundation’s Student Art Scholar Competition spotlights young talent

Draper Visual Arts Foundation is once again sponsoring the Student Art Scholar Competition for local high school seniors. The annual competition began over 20 years ago and serves to promote the development of art talent among local high school students.

Jean Hendricksen, co-founder and Draper Visual Arts Foundation Board of Trustees member explained, "As a Foundation, we wanted to encourage students to create notable pieces of art, and to help support their dreams of continuing their artistic studies and pursuits."

“We think it is very important in all communities to have fine art in our lives,” added fellow Board of Trustees Terrie Richins.

The board members sent information about the competition to art teachers in both public and private high schools in the Canyons School District area. The contest is limited to 12th graders only. April 24 is the deadline for submissions.

Interested students are invited to submit up to two works of art for the competition. The entries must be original, framed works of art that are not copies from magazines or other works. The competition has three categories: two-dimensional art works such as paintings, drawings or prints; three-dimensional pieces including woodworking, jewelry, pottery and sculpture; and photography and digital art. Crafts such as knitting, crochet and quilting will not be accepted.

“We are looking for pieces of art that reflect the unique creative abilities of the artist,” Richins said. “The work of art should reflect the student’s style and ability.”

Students should submit their works of art at Draper City Hall located at 1020

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By Katherine Weinstein | k.weinstein@mycityjournals.com

Pioneer Road. A completed entry form, available on the Draper Visual Arts Foundation website, should accompany each submission.

The student art will be displayed in the foyer of City Hall from April 24 through May 1.

Jenny Haase, another member of the Board of Trustees said, “We hope that families will come to enjoy the art at their convenience.” City Hall is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

On May 1, a panel of judges comprised of local artists will select the prize winners. An awards ceremony, open to the public, will be held at 7 p.m. on that date in the Draper City Council room. Draper Visual Arts Foundation is offering prizes in amounts ranging from $100 to $1,000.

Past winners of the Art Scholar Competition have gone on to further their education in art on the university level and many are working professionally in the arts. Last year’s Grand Prize winner, Waterford student Lucza Brewer, is pursuing an art degree at UCLA.

“Winning this award means so much to me,” Brewer wrote in a statement for the foundation. “I feel an immense amount of support from my community here in Draper. I have always felt that art has an unmatched power to communicate emotions in a way that words may not be able to. This is a crazy time for people everywhere in the world, especially youth, so for me to be able to share my voice with my photography is an honor.”

Emily Kennard Dunn, a Jordan High School alum who won the Grand Prize in 2000, graduated from BYU with a BFA in illustration. She then went on to work for Disney Interactive Studios for 10 years. She is currently a board member of Draper

Visual Arts Foundation.

Since its founding in 1992, the mission of the foundation is to “conserve, promote and celebrate art in Draper.” The Student Art Scholar Competition is just one way in which Draper Visual Arts Foundation fulfills this mission.

"We are delighted to continue our long-standing tradition of showcasing, encouraging and celebrating promising young artists in our community through

this special program," Haase said.

To see pictures of prize-winning works of art from past competitions and download an entry form, visit the Draper Visual Arts Foundation website at www. drapervisualartsfoundation.org. Contact Terrie Richins at mtoct23@q.com or 801651-9523 with questions about the competition. l

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Aspen Douglas’ painting of a friendly cow won First Prize at the Draper Visual Arts Foundation’s Student Art Scholar Competition in 2021. ((Photo by Jenny Haase/Draper Visual Arts Foundation)

Draper City Mayor’s Youth Council helps make Spring Egg Hunt egg-stra fun

The Easter Bunny will be hopping down the bunny trail to Galena Park on April 8 for Draper's annual Spring Egg Hunt. Children age 12 and under can hunt for candy-filled eggs, take photos with the Easter Bunny and get their faces painted.

The Spring Egg Hunt has been a Draper tradition for decades and hundreds of children participate every year. Many volunteers are required to make sure the event goes smoothly. Members of the Draper City Mayor's Youth Council are once again helping out with this year's egg hunt—and having fun in the process.

Cooper Johnson, a senior at Corner Canyon High School played an Easter Bunny last year. "It was a blast!" he said. "It made me really happy. It was so great to see the big grins on the kids' faces." He is looking forward to possibly donning the fuzzy ears again this year.

Youth Mayor Shaelyn Preede, a senior at Corner Canyon and First Attendant in the Miss Draper scholarship program, was a photographer at last year’s Spring Egg Hunt. “The best part of the egg hunt was walking around with the Easter Bunny before the event officially started,” she recalled. “The Easter Bunny took photos, danced and even slid down the playground’s slide to entertain the children.”

The Youth Council members volunteer in a variety of capacities at the event. They put out thousands of candy-filled filled plastic eggs around the park, take photos, paint kids' faces and generally help to keep an eye on things.

To make sure that children of all ages and abilities have a fair chance to collect eggs, Galena Park will be divided into four sections for different age groups and children with special needs. Families with children in multiple age groups should choose the section that best fits their needs. Children are encouraged to collect eggs without help from an adult unless they are under the age of 2 or have special needs.

"I helped out last year with putting eggs in a particular area for the littlest kids so it was easier for them to pick them up," said Corner Canyon High School junior Ashlee Jensen. "We make sure the bigger kids don't take them."

"I just love all the events that Draper always has," Jensen added as she explained what inspired her to join the Mayor's Youth Council. "The opportunity to give back to the community is really special."

Councilmembers volunteer for all of Draper's seasonal community events, including the Haunted Trail, Draper Days, the International Arts and Crafts Festival and the Tree Lighting Ceremony. With 87 members this year, it is the largest youth council in the state.

“The Draper Youth Council is a fantastic way for high school students to be involved in their community through leadership, service and activities,” Preede said via email.

By Katherine Weinstein | k.weinstein@mycityjournals.com

“You get to meet people in the community that you wouldn’t ordinarily get to meet,” Jensen said. “I love doing Youth Council.”

The Spring Egg Hunt starts at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 8, at Galena Park, 12500 S. Vista Station Blvd. (550 West). Children must bring their own baskets and families are encouraged to arrive early as the eggs go quickly. For more information, visit www. draperutah.gov/931/Spring-Egg-Hunt or call the Community Events Manager at 801-5766584. l

Easter Bunnies Adelle Hayes, Cooper Johnson and Cambria Davies posed for the camera at the Spring Egg Hunt in 2022. (Photo by Shaelyn Preede)

Families get ready for the 2022 Spring Egg Hunt. (Photo courtesy Linda Peterson/Draper City)

Mahika Acharya, seated in front, and Natalia Cyriac, seated behind, paint children’s faces at the 2022 Spring Egg Hunt. (Photo courtesy Caroline Sagae/Draper City Mayor’s Youth Council)

New beer served in Draper will support the Great Salt Lake

Salt Flats Brewing wants you to drink beer and help save the Great Salt Lake. To raise awareness to the plight of the dwindling lake, the brewing company created a Save The Lake Pilsner that was released in March.

Known for its award-winning alcoholic beverages, Salt Flats Beer & Spirits will contribute 5% of every case of Save The Lake sold to support organizations fighting to bring attention to the lake.

“As the plight of the lake has finally become important to all residents along the Wasatch Front, our goal is to use our branding and product platform to heighten public awareness of the need to find solutions and contribute financially to assist in these solutions,” said Salt Flats general manager Jeremy Ford, in a press release.

The 5% ABV pilsner was created by brewmaster Eric Buehner and is described as, “A beautiful golden lager, derived from premium malts with Zues and Motueka hops, resulting in a delicately-balanced, full-bodied libation which will please the palate of any beer drinker.”

Recording its lowest level in history, the Great Salt Lake is the largest remaining saline lake in the Western Hemisphere. As the lake shrinks, entire ecosystems are threatened, the dried lake bed impacts air quality as it releases

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

toxic dust, and the water supply for residents along the Wasatch Front is affected. Some experts predict the Great Salt Lake could disappear in as little as five years.

While Utah lawmakers promised to address the lake’s dire situation during the recent legislative session, many proposed policies never made it to the governor’s desk for approval. Some of those failed proposals included a resolution to set a target lake depth, a way to track the use of water at golf courses and cash incentives to encourage homeowners to use drought-resistant or drought-tolerant landscaping.

As lawmakers fail to take action, local businesses and groups are stepping up to lend their voice, products and platforms to bring attention to the lake and its predicament, including the brewing company that originated at the Garage Grill in Draper and has gained popularity in Utah, Idaho and Nevada.

People can purchase Save The Lake Pilsner at the Garage Grills in Draper and Herriman, Salt Flats Club in Herriman, Toscano Italian Bistro in Draper and at the brewery’s tap and tasting room located at 2020 W. Industrial Circle in Salt Lake City. Save The Lake will eventually be distributed to grocery and convenience stores as well as bars and restaurants.

“With our current products being available in over 600 accounts, our goal is to get the product into as many of our accounts and their customers as possible so that they can also join in on our effort by helping us provide financial support to the effort as well as providing heightened awareness through

each can’s QR code enabling each consumer access to a wealth of information regarding the plight of the lake, what will happen if the trend continues and we do nothing and the ongoing efforts to save it,” Ford said.

For more information, visit SaltFlatsBeer.com.l

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public servant. My heart has always been in public service,” she said.

Through the years, Garner has seen examples of the type of judge she does not want to be and the kind of judge she aspires to be. “I have seen all sides and it makes me realize, in the end, we want the same thing: To be respected, heard and treated impartially when we find ourselves in the justice system,” she said.

Her approach comes from recognizing the humanity in each person who appears before her. “They’re someone’s son or daughter, and I think how would I want someone to treat my husband or my child if they were in this situation?” She strives to balance that respect with a consideration for all parties involved and a need to protect the community she serves. She’s seen defendants leave a courtroom feeling good, even if the outcome was adverse to their interest, knowing they were treated respectfully, impartially and heard.

She shows compassion while donning her judicial robe, even when cases come before her in rapid succession. She greets each person appearing before her with a “good afternoon” or a “how are you?,” frequently thanking them and wishing them a good day after she’s rendered her decision. “Thank you for being forthcoming and taking responsibility,” she said to a traffic court defendant.

She can also be uncompromising and direct when she feels it’s necessary. “I’m proud of you for getting your GED. That’s excellent. That will help you when you get out. But you will do your children no good if you’re still using when you get back to them,” she told a man who struggles with addiction who appeared before her via video conference from jail.

She shows flexibility when it comes to court fine due

dates. Garner asks the defendant how much time they think they need to pay a fine, then frequently gives them a couple months beyond the date they asked for. “If you need more time, I’m happy to give it to you,” she told a young defendant.

Even with 25 years of experience in law, she said there’s a learning curve in her new job. “I really enjoy it. I love interacting with people…but I was surprised at how difficult it is to…play a different role.” She admits it can sometimes be hard to render a decision. “The most difficult are the domestic violence cases…It’s so complicated, there are so many emotions…and they’re higher stakes. You don’t want to put anyone in danger,” she said.

The city council voted March 7 to approve a contract to share Garner with Herriman City in a 65%, 35% split. Under the agreement, Draper will front the cost and Herriman will pay 35% of Garner’s salary and benefits to Draper. “It’s pretty common among cities to do it. Most of us are not full-time courts. It’s beneficial to both cities,” explained City Attorney Mike Barker.

She will serve in Herriman Mondays and Wednesdays and in Draper Tuesdays and Thursdays, alternating Fridays. “There’s a provision in the contract to reconcile every year and consider if that split should be adjusted,” Barker said.

Garner is supported by a staff of all women who have nearly 70 years combined experience. “We have a tremendous support staff and that kind of longevity is unheard of. I don’t think anyone else in the state would have those total years of experience. They work well together, complement one another, and all of them have the ability to do whatever is needed,” she said.

Garner draws inspiration from her family and she hopes the people appearing before her also have someone who cares for and about them and their success.

“I’ve been super impressed at the experience that these women have,” Judge Lisa Garner said. The all-women Justice Court staff has nearly 70 years combined experience. Pictured L-R are Lisa Sutton, Jaci Walker, Kellie Anderson, Judge Lisa Garner, Stephanie Evans and Jonna Crump. (Courtesy Jonna Crump)

“The gratifying part is when I can treat someone who’s not used to being treated kindly or respectfully…I try to make them feel that they’re not defined in my eyes by the choices they’ve made. I try to figure out how to help that person succeed so they’re not in court again,” she said. “That’s my goal.” l

A portion of sales from Save The Lake Pilsner, released in March by Salt Flats Brewing, will go to support efforts to bring awareness to the plight of the Great Salt Lake. (Photo courtesy of Salt Flats Brewing)

Hear a Who with Horton at theatre production of ‘Seussical the Musical’

The Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, the Whos of Whoville and other memorable characters from the imagination of Dr. Seuss will appear on the stage of Draper Historic Theatre this month. Off Broadway Theatre Co. presents "Seussical the Musical" by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty March 31 through April 29.

The script pulls together characters from a variety of Dr. Seuss books but focuses mainly on the stories of "Horton Hears a Who," "Gertrude McFuzz" and "Horton Hatches an Egg." For many in the cast, the musical's themes of kindness and inclusion along with a big dose of silliness make it a favorite.

Carl Smith, who plays Horton, said he has enjoyed listening to the Broadway cast recording for years. "I really empathize with Horton's experience," he said. "Horton has to learn how to deal with

By Katherine Weinstein | k.weinstein@mycityjournals.com

bullies and the right ways to stand up for himself." For Smith, one of the show's themes is about the value of being kind in the face of unkindness. "Horton is nice, kind and gentle to everyone no matter how they treat him," he said.

For Cassidy Bullock, who is making her stage debut as Mayzie LaBird, the message of the show is that "no matter how alone you feel, there is always someone on your side." She quoted the script, "'A person is a person no matter how small.'"

Cassidy's husband, Ryan Bullock, plays the Cat in the Hat. It's a challenging role as the Cat is on stage quite a bit in different guises. "He moves the story along playing different characters or just being a goofball," Ryan Bullock said. "The cast and director of the show have made it so much fun. Seeing the show come to life

has been amazing."

The Bullocks are not the only family members performing together in "Seussical." Caroline Farmer and her mother, Zoie, respectively play Jojo, a young Who, and Gertrude McFuzz, a bird who is secretly in love with Horton. Eleven year old Caroline is making her stage debut. She said that while it was a little stressful learning lines, songs and choreography for the first time, "It's still really fun! I help to create things in the story." Much of the action on stage unfolds in the imagination of her character.

Zoie Farmer is also enjoying playing Gertrude who tries to grow her tail longer to catch the eye of Horton. "He's clueless—sweet and good-hearted as he is," Zoie said. In the end, Gertrude learns that trying to change who she is is not the answer. "There is a theme here about being authentic," she said.

Emma Gilmore plays the Sour Kangaroo, one of the main villains of the show who refuses to believe that the Whos exist. She explained that presenting full musicals is a fairly recent departure from the highly-improvised parody shows that Off Broadway Theatre Co. is known for.

"We're sticking to the original written script," she noted. "But we also add in bits of improv. We might pause a song and add a bit. It's a lot of fun and adds another layer to the show that only Off Broadway Theatre can do."

She mentioned that this production of "Seussical" is triple-cast. This has been done to keep the show going in case an actor gets sick and also ensures that the youngest cast members aren't overwhelmed with too many performances. The company also wanted to accommodate all of the talented members of the community who auditioned. "Each of the different casts brings something a little different to each show," Gilmore said.

Carl Smith said, "The people who are doing 'Seussical' are passionate about it which always makes the show better. I'm really proud of this. It's a good show."

Off Broadway Theatre Co. presents "Seussical the Musical" March 31 through April 29 on the stage of Draper Historic Theatre. Curtain time is 7:30 p.m. Draper Historic Theatre is located at 12366 S. 900 East. For tickets, visit theobt.org. l

Cassidy Bullock as Mayzie LaBird and Ryan Bullock as the Cat in the Hat strike a pose in the Off Broadway Theatre Co. production of “Seussical the Musical.” (Photo by Nicolas Brown/Off Broadway Theatre Co.)

New Summit Academy executive director to lead individualized, innovative learning

With 20 years of administrative experience plus serving on the Utah State Board of Education, Molly Hart knows a thing or two about education.

When the current Albion Middle School principal learned about the opportunities at Summit Academy, she wanted to embrace it as the charter schools’ new executive director.

“Once I learned about the opportunity and met the people and learned what they want to do and how they want to grow Summit, I wanted to be part of it,” she said. “I have a lot of ideas about education, with different innovations and ways of doing things and I want to try them out. The charter environment is a little bit more agile and, in a lot of ways, that’s why we have charters, is to try things out on a smaller scale. When you’re building something, it takes the community in the truest sense of the word—the teachers, the parents, the students, the administrators to create the vision. I’m not taking a plan over there and plopping it down. I’m going there to build a smaller community where learners can thrive, and parents feel good about the experiences their kids have.”

Hart likes the small learning environment.

“Summit does some things that are unique with the K-8 school, so you don’t have to make a transition in between fifth and sixth grade,” she said about the Draper and Bluffdale schools that serve ages 5 through 14. “The smaller environment in the high school gives students opportunity. They are really wanting to make sure that students’ individual needs are met with personalized learning, and they’re doing some pretty cool stuff with eSports and tech. We want to empower students to be curious about their world, to empower them to learn how to find information and critically separate fact from fiction and learn how to construct a strong argument based on evidence in multiple areas, but also to have experiences from trial-and-error experiments.”

Her appointment begins July 1. She will continue as Albion’s principal in Sandy until then and will continue serving on the Utah State Board of Education.

“Being on the Board, I’m more aware of policies than the average person. I can keep a pulse on where things are going,” she said.

Through her years in education—starting with being a teacher and administrator in Georgia before being a principal 11 years in Canyons School District, she realizes that she is good at seeing the overall picture and helping create that by working with groups of people, keeping the school children’s best interest at heart—especially now, post pandemic.

“We learned a lot and education is in a

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

different space,” Hart said. “Kids are different, and teachers are different, and parents are different—and it requires a different kind of educational experience for kids. I think we can either dream about five and 10 years ago and those glory days or we can look forward to the next great educational experience. Sometimes you got to break with the past to build something beautiful— and kids deserve that. I love creating teams and meeting the needs of kids. I just love it when it’s a great environment for kids.”

Her first step at Summit will be listening and soaking it in.

“I am going to listen; I am going to be Summit’s No. 1 learner. I am going to just soak up everything I can from the community meetings from the classrooms, from the extracurriculars from the different campuses, from the students,” Hart said.

She hopes to identify the school community’s strengths and challenges.

“I’m going to work using their strengths to overcome their challenges. I want to make it so the administration and the running of the schools is in the background. That way, the teachers can concentrate on the students in front of them and students can concentrate on learning and experiencing the things the teachers have for them,” Hart said. “I’m not going to impose a vision other than my vision is to help the commu nity develop the best school possible for that community for those students.”

Hart will take her books that currently fill a wall in her office as well as a bright colorful quilt she sewed, which is displayed on another wall. On one square, there is a tiny imperfection, a pucker which doesn’t allow the fabric to lie flat.

“I use it to teach kids telling them because you have a flaw, it doesn’t mean you’re not valuable,” she said. “It actually means that block is different, and we all are as well. There are lessons in humanity there so sometimes when kids are stressed or worried, I try to calm them down and give them something to think about. They, like the quilt, are still beautiful.”

She said that parents universally all want a safe school, a quality education where students come away better than when they arrived.

“It’s important for students to be pro ductive and contributing citizens in ways that are meaningful to them and their fam ily. The minute I met the people, the ad ministrative team, the Board and saw the commitment to meaningful learning and experiences in a safe environment where there’s a healthy community of support for each other, I knew I wanted to be part of it,” Hart said. “Summit puts students first. They’re open to innovation and they have a vision for the future.”

Molly Hart, who is principal at Albion Middle School in Sandy and serves on the state school board, will become Summit Academy’s new executive director. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

St. John students’ bonds deepen through presenting Stations of the Cross

Eighth-grader Addy Hagen was looking forward to portraying Mary during St. John the Baptist Middle School’s Stations of the Cross.

“I hope to portray her as really humble, kind and willing to help others,” she said before the devotion. “She is gentle and calm. I’m at the station where Jesus meets his mother. It’s very special and this will be a good way for me to pray more and think about my faith in Jesus.”

Stations of the Cross is a tradition at the Catholic middle school. The eighth-graders are divided into 15 groups to represent Jesus Christ’s last day on Earth as a man to his resurrection. The students decide classmates who demonstrate the qualities of kindness and humility of Jesus and Mary to present those roles at each appropriate station.

Students and faculty at the Skaggs campus and surrounding community were invited to take part in the devotion, which this year, the 20th year at St. John, was slated for late March. An estimated 1,000 people attend annually.

Addy’s religion teacher, Maria Moynihan, said while Catholics walked the stations, students shared depictions of Christ’s journey, so “basically, they’re walking and praying along the way with Jesus.”

The students started learning about the tradition on Ash Wednesday. Over five weeks, they read the four gospels and watched the movie, “The Passion of the Christ,” which Moynihan said sets the tone.

“I try to help them understand the historical part of it as we watch the movie,” she said.

Addy said that by putting herself in the Bible story, she feels “a lot more compassion and sympathy, and it helps me

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

understand it more and what it was like to be at that time.”

Then in groups, the students start writing their script as well as an opening prayer, reflection questions and a closing prayer. Through the script writing, discussions and rehearsals, Moynihan said students evolve.

“We have them as their eighth-grade selves, which are goofy and awkward and very concerned about what other people are thinking of them, and through this process, they’re examining what happened to Jesus, what is his suffering in that station? They come up with an opening prayer and reflection questions to ask. It’s not just saying the words, it’s creating something and making their own. Through a lot of reflection and prayer, they, one by one, start to get to this place where they feel like they’re there with Jesus and let go of their eighth-grade selves,” she said, “It is truly amazing to see this powerful transformation that happens.”

They also develop research, written and oral communication and teamwork skills, Moynihan added.

Juan Diego Catholic High’s Peri Flanagan originated the school’s portrayal of Stations of the Cross when she taught at St. John. Moynihan has been directing students with it the past 13 years.

“The first year, they didn’t have any big crosses. They went out and found sticks to form into a cross. Over the years it has grown. I think my husband has made these major crosses for many years now and every couple of years, he’ll need to make a couple of replacements as they may not be strong enough. It’s a special day for them when they pull those out,” Moynihan said. “We have some students who

are raised Catholic and have been in our schools and are real familiar with the whole story of Jesus. Then, we have kids who are new to our schools and this may be the first experience they’ve had, and we also have a few students who aren’t even Christian. I’d say most of these students are questioning their faith. So, we’re all on a faith journey and we tell them, ‘no matter where you are on your journey, this is something that if you open your heart you’ll have a really beautiful experience from it. Even if it’s not deepening your faith, it deepens the bonds they have with their classmates. It’s broadening their friend group by working on this together.” l

St. John the Baptist, Juan Diego Catholic High orchestra students share gift of music

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Juan Diego Catholic High School orchestra students are rehearsing, gearing up for their regional festival where judges will evaluate their performance.

The orchestra has become stronger in the past half dozen years as director Denisse Vallecillos also teaches at St. John the Baptist elementary and middle schools, allowing for a smooth transition for the student-musicians.

“It’s good to see consistency in teaching style and expectation and there is a familiarity and comfort to students as they transition from school to school,” she said. “I have a good rapport with the students so we’re able to pick up right from where we were and progress.”

There are two high school orchestras, one that practices before school with invited advanced middle school students joining the high schoolers, and another one during the school day. Already, the orchestra competed at the 46th annual high school Shakespearean competition this past fall, receiving good feedback to help the students prepare for region.

Regional competition will be split between solos and ensembles held one day at Providence High in Herriman and ensemble groups another day at American Leadership Academy in Spanish Fork. Juan Diego planned to have 25 student-musicians take

part.

In addition, they also are rehearsing for their spring concert that will be held in May.

“We’ll have music featured from different movies so that will be fun and more relaxed,” Vallecillos said.

There are two middle school orchestras that have grown from six students when she arrived to upward of 30 students during her tenure. They will perform with choir and band at 7 p.m., May 8 in Juan Diego’s auditorium.

Elementary orchestra students are learning a five-part piece after school two days per week; those student-musicians will perform their spring concert on a yet-to-be-announced May date in Juan Diego’s Little Theatre.

The groups also are part of videos that are produced and feature their music.

“It started with COVID and the choir,” Vallecillos said. “Since then, they’ve added the orchestra and band. We’ve played religious music that is more meaningful and representative of our school for Easter, Advent and Christmas. The students are recorded, and the videographer mixes it with art. It turns out beautiful.”

Those recordings are available to the public on the school’s YouTube page.

Even with these performances and opportunities, Vallecillos wants students to appreciate their efforts every day.

“I hope all the groups are loving to play for the joy of music. They’re learning to collaborate with their classmates and hearing how each part in the ensemble has beauty. It’s like being on a team, where they all have a common goal,” she said.

At the same time, they’re learning about different styles of music.

Vallecillos said that she has arranged modern, historical, baroque, classical and pop music for the students to perform.

“Some pieces give them a challenge, and they gain confidence and grow with the parts. They’re learning they can do something challenging, especially since string instruments are hard, and they’re seeing success. They work hard and persevere to produce good results,” she said. “It’s rewarding to see them dedicate themselves to creating beautiful music that is appreciated by themselves and others.” l

This will be the 20th year St. John the Baptist students will hold their Stations of the Cross devotion. (Brandon Howland/SJBMS)

Juan Diego Catholic High School orchestra, seen here in October, will have its final performance in May. (Photo courtesy of Juan Diego Catholic High School)

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K. TYSON BAILEY, DO Internal Medicine

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Dr. Bailey completed medical school at Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine. While at this faith-based university, he learned how to integrate modern, evidence-based medical practices while focusing on the three tenets of health: mind, body, and soul. Dr. Bailey believes that optimal health comes when all three of these tenets are addressed properly. To address these three tenets fully, Dr. Bailey uses a multidisciplinary approach to ensure every aspect of patients’ well-being is taken care of.

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Dr. Bailey is trained in osteopathic manipulation and offers these services on a case-by-case basis.

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Imagine walking into a wax museum just to have famous people—Henry VIII, Cleopatra, Butch Cassidy, John Adams, the Sundance Kid—come to life.

That’s what happened recently at Summit Academy when junior high students performed “Night at the Wax Museum.”

The storyline has six students retaking their history class in summer school when the first-year teacher arranged to set up a wax museum. Only a mysterious charm from Cleopatra’s bracelet brings the characters to life and everyone is on a hunt to find something valuable hidden in the museum.

“Our kids had a lot of fun with it,” said director Aimee Rohling. “After a few years of COVID limiting performing and rehearsals, this year we were finally out of those restrictions. So we wanted something big and exciting and fun in a full-length play. This gave them the opportunity to work on something, to have fun and learn in the process.”

Since open auditions in October, 24 students rehearsed and worked on the set after school for the February performance. While some students had to drop out with schedule conflicts over the months, the cast adapted.

“They learned a lot about relying on each other. They kept pushing and encouraging each other when there were times where things were difficult. It was a lot of work,

but they knew they could do it. They really banded together and became strong,” she said. “They were very dedicated and committed to helping each other and making it be a good show.”

Rohling said the skills they used ex-

tended beyond acting technique or written and verbal communication.

“They used a lot of active listening, thinking on their feet, teamwork. All of those are necessary to get it night after night and make it through the show,” she said. “The

play had a different skill set; that may have given others an experience to perform they wanted or aren’t comfortable singing in a musical.”

Rohling directed the play with tech student-turned-student director Gianna Davis, who is in seventh grade. Historical costumes were created by volunteer Mary Jo Macomb and modern-day kids designed and brought in their own costumes.

It’s the second time Rohling has directed this play at Summit.

“We performed it about 10 years ago. I remember it being a fun, swashbuckling adventure. Everybody’s excited by treasure and pirates and cowboys and all of those things so it was a big production,” she said. “It’s always fun to have the students come tell me what they want to do. But often, I give them something new and maybe it’s something they don’t even know they can do. Often, their families and friends are saying, ‘I’ve never seen them do something like that’ and we may have the quietest, most shy students be the most outgoing on stage so that’s fun to see a new side of the students. I like watching them grow; theater helps you be good at everything in life because everybody has to listen, everybody has to work as a team, everybody has to speak in public. Theater helps them practice those things in a fun way.”l

Summit Academy students recently performed “Night at the Wax Museum.” (Aimee Rohling/Summit Academy)

Utahns demonstrate attention span disruption with cell phone usage

It was 2007 when Apple released the iPhone as the first “smartphone.” Since then, consumers have become increasingly attached to their devices, to the point of distraction. Research shows looking at phones gives users a dopamine boost, creating a feeling of pleasure and satisfaction, but at what cost?

In a study conducted by North Star Inbound, for the gaming platform Solitaire Bliss, smartphone users across 38 states submitted information about their cell phone usage. The study showed 41% of Utah residents frequently use their phones while watching TV, 49% of Utahns admit to looking down at their phones as they cross a street and 59% of Utah residents bring their phones to use while on the toilet.

“This study looked at a few ways being distracted by our phones can impact our lives,” said Melissa Stephenson, North Star Inbound media relations associate. “With 49% of Utah residents admitting to looking down at their phones at least a couple times while crossing a street, a personal safety issue is raised.”

While men are most guilty of looking at their phones while crossing the street, women reach for their phones while watching TV more often than men. Nearly one-third of Utah residents only last a few minutes before their mind wanders and they reach for their phone,

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

and 45% of Utahns talk to others on their phones while working on a separate task.

Habitual cell phone use has been connected with decreased attention spans. According to the study, it’s not surprising that the Gen Z population, who have grown up with smartphones, has the shortest attention span compared to millennials, Gen X and baby boomers.

The Child Mind Institute found an increase in phone use led to a decrease in connection. As attention spans decrease, effective learning is diminished. This includes the ability to retain information, pay attention to details and create cognitive flexibility, which is a brain’s ability to change and adapt.

“As our study points out areas where attention spans aren’t thriving, we can look at research done by George Washington University for recommendations on improving attention spans,” Stephenson said. “They listed meditation, practicing attentive listening, reading, practicing muscle relaxation techniques, mindful walking, reducing distractions and making time for mental breaks.”

Experts recommend putting phones in a different room where it won’t be visible and easily accessible. Sometimes, just the sight of a phone is a trigger to pick it up and use it. Placing a phone in a drawer at work is a

good way to keep from getting distracted on the job. Users can also set time limits on specific platforms or download apps to track cell phone usage.

The North Star Inbound study showed 76% of those surveyed are distracted by their phones at work and 62% give up when trying something new or difficult. For more on the

Rae’s Draper Real Estate Update

By Jason Corbridge

Draper resident, RaeAnne Stranc, is running a “Marathon” of sorts, which involves door-knocking $10,000 homes in Draper. She will have monthly updates on her progress, Draper real estate news/statistics, and contest information.

7 Tips for Buying a Home or Investment Property in the 2023 Market:

1. Since interest rates will be on a roller coaster ride going up and down over the next year, get off the ride and lock in your rate when you are ready. You can always refinance later!

2. One of the best ways to purchase in this higher rate environment is to negotiate seller paid closing costs as part of your transaction. With a less competitive sellers market, we are seeing more sellers willing to contribute to a buyer’s costs for closing and rate buy-down.

3. Sellers who want and need to sell, may just offer to be the lender for you. This is called “Seller Financing.” You will probably go through some type of vetting process with the seller. Usually, the seller will like a good down payment in this situation, so if you have a nice amount to invest, this may be another way to go in this market.

4. Over the past five years, we’ve seen historically low interest rates so you might be able to assume the Seller’s low interest, if their loan was an FHA or VA loan. In this situation, you would assume their loan and bring money to the table for the difference.

5. In this market, unlike the past, builders of new construction are now sitting on inventory, and they are offering many incentives right in this current market.

6. We are seeing “a contingent to sell” clause, back in the real estate purchase contract. Sellers are more accepting to work with buyers who need to sell their current home. Sellers know that they need to be more creative in this market.

7. If you have a lot of equity in your home, you may be able to pull that money out to be used as a down payment on an investment property.

(Rae Stranc is not a mortgage lender. Please consult an expert for more information on home purchasing ideas.)

study, visit Solitairebliss.com/blog.

“Utah residents ranked the fourth worst at being on their phones while talking to loved ones, raising the issue of not being present in those situations,” Stephenson said. “Being present in moments of our lives has been proven to help with stress management and regulating our moods.”l

Knocked: 420 Draper Homes since January 1st

(Goal 10,000 Draper homes by December 31, 2023)

Winning Doors Hangers:

January: #6, #90, #122, #237; February: #32, #76, #294, #381 (Winners call/text to receive your $25 restaurant gift card.)

Chick-fil-a Gift Cards given out: 9

(Receive a $5 Chick-fil-a gift card for knowing my full name when I come to your door.)

I always gift back $1,000 to my Buyers when they Buy! If you would like more statistical information, counsel, or a complimentary Comparative Market Analysis specific to your property, please call or text me at (801) 888-4525 or rstranc801@msn.com.

Raeanne Stranc is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Realty in Draper, a 2021 Top 500 Realtor and a 2022 Distinguished Service Award Winner with the Salt Lake Board of Realtors

A study conducted by North Star Inbound showed 49% of Utahns admit to looking down at their phones as they cross a street. (Stock photo)

Corner Canyon unified basketball players learn skills, leadership, cooperation

Corner Canyon sophomore Conner

Goodwin practiced with his unified basketball team for about a month before their regional tournament.

“I learned more skills and teamwork from my teammates,” he said. “I know I can make a difference and help our team.”

In unified basketball, there are five players on the court—three athletes and two unified partners. Teams play against other squads of the same ability in two eight-minute halves. Supported by Special Olympics and the Utah High School Activities Association, unified sports has both a competitive and a player development level, the latter which provides more of a cooperative environment with partners being teammates and mentors.

UHSAA referee Paul Madsen said he appreciates unified basketball.

“There’s great sportsmanship,” he said. “Everyone is helping each other. It’s wonderful to see.”

Goodwin’s mother, Sabrina Beshore, agrees.

“It’s rewarding to see the sportsmanship on the floor,” she said. “The other team will take a shot and we’ll clap or rebound the ball and give them another chance. It’s important that all teams succeed and are cheered on.”

Corner Canyon tied for first in its division; however the team placed second after its tie break, said Courtnie Worthen, Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools manager.

Still, Corner Canyon players qualified and were excited to compete at the March 8 state tournament.

“It means a lot to me that we were recognized as a team,” he said. “I’ve learned how to be a better person and I’ve made more friends through unified basketball. It’s been fun and I’m ready to play more.”

Beshore said her son was “devastated” when a snowstorm pushed back the original date of the regional tournament.

“I’m so grateful it still happened, and that Corner Canyon is participating. I’ve seen real happiness here, but also, I witnessed leadership and cooperation. It’s a great experience for all the students,” she said.

Canyons Education Foundation Officer Denise Haycock helped at the regional tournament and appreciated the partnerships between Jordan and Canyons foundations and the support of sponsors, including Scheels in providing equipment for the unified athletes.

In Utah, involvement in unified high school basketball has skyrocketed. This year, there were the most teams in its history competing to play at state—73 teams competed for 32 state seeds, Worthen said.

At the March 8 state unified basketball tournament, there was plenty of smiles and cheers as Corner Canyon beat Bingham

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

High to take sixth place in its division. Administrators from several school districts and educational foundations joined Gov. Spencer Cox and First Lady Abby Cox to support the competition, which was held at Weber State University.

Abby Cox said she was proud of everyone in the gym.

“Utah, as a state—we are part of the inclusion revolution,” she told them.

Unified sports engages students with and without intellectual disabilities on the same sports teams, leading to not only sports skills development and competition, but also inclusion and friendship, Worthen said.

“Unified sports provides social inclusion opportunities for all teammates to build friendships on and off the court,” she said.

“The teammates challenge each other to improve their skills and fitness and at the same time, increase positive attitudes and establish friendships and provide a model of inclusion for the entire school community.”

Unified sports, Worthen said, is included in the Unified Champion Schools model, where a unified team is supported by the entire school and there is inclusive youth leadership and whole school engagement.

“With schools that embrace the Unified Champion Schools model, they create communities where all students feel welcome and are included in all school activities and opportunities. Students feel socially and emotionally secure, they’re more engaged in the school and feel supported, and are respected,” she said. “It changes school climates.” l

At state, Corner Canyon’s unified basketball student-athletes paraded into the gym with roaring applause. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Before the awards ceremony at the regional tournament, Corner Canyon High unified student-athletes broke out in a dance for the fans. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

At their unified regional tournament, Corner Canyon High shoots for two against Copper Hills High. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Corner Canyon High fans cheer as their unified team gets a fast break against Bingham High.

(Julie Slama/City Journals)

JDCHS three-time state champ says wrestling taught her ‘grit’

Juan Diego Catholic High School’s Yvette

“Star” Vargas won her third straight wrestling title at the 1A/2A/3A girls state championships. This year, the senior defeated Canyon View’s Kristine Jensen in the title match in the 110-pound division Feb. 16 at the Sevier Valley Center. She was named the Outstanding Wrestler Award at the state meet.

“This year winning state I was emotional, but more excited than usual,” she said. “What made this title special was that it was the last time I was going to wrestle. And, I had always hoped to be awarded the outstanding wrestler.”

Vargas defeated North Sevier’s Isabelle Sorenson, South Sevier’s Shaynna Fillmore to reach the semifinals where she defeated Ogden’s Brighton Summers before taking down Jensen in the final.

“We are just proud of Star,” said her dad, Vince Vargas. “She knew she was going to walk away from the sport after this season, and she made sure she ended her career with a win.”

JDCHS junior Skyley Hanna, wrestling at 115 pounds, came in third place at state. She won her first two matches over Duchesne’s Daniella Spencer and Juab’s Andelynn Stephensen and then lost to Providence

By Catherine Garrett | c.garrett@mycityjournals.com

Hall’s Alyssa Lujan. She then beat North Sevier’s Kinsee Salling and then Grantsville’s Bailey Rainer to win the consolation bracket.

Star, the daughter of Vince and Christie Vargas of South Jordan, began wrestling 11 years ago and loved the real sense of community that she has found within the sport and “the unreal feeling of winning” she has also experienced. She said her journey is wrestling has also given her plenty of invaluable life lessons. “Wrestling has taught me that I have grit,” she said. “I know what it’s like to lose and what I have to do to bounce back and learn from my mistakes to be better. It’s also taught me that life gets hard, but without those hard times you as a person wouldn’t be getting stronger.”

“She faced some adversities with some minor injuries, but she stuck with it and ended on top,” said Vince Vargas.

Five members of Juan Diego’s boys wrestling squad participated at the 3A boys state wrestling championships Feb. 15-16 at the Sevier Valley Center but didn’t place.

Sophomore Mario Perez competed at 120 pounds, sophomore Corbin Buckley at 144 pounds, sophomore Antonio Archuleta at 157 pounds, sophomore Toby Hardin at 165 pounds and freshman Giovanni Hernandez at 190 pounds.

At the 3A/2A/1A Divisionals that were held in early February at Morgan High School, Star Vargas and Hanna won their weight categories to lead the girls team to a sixth-place showing. Also placing at Divisionals was Ximena Torales-Quintana (fourth, 125 pounds), Jade Alcala (fourth, 130 pounds) and Tiffany Nguyen (seventh, 110 pounds).

The boys squad, who placed eighth at Divisionals at Ben Lomond High School in early February, were led by Hardin in fourth place at 165 pounds.

Other top-eight placers were Perez (sixth, 120 pounds), Buckley (eighth, 144 pounds), Archuleta (eighth, 157 pounds), Sebastian Ramirez (sixth, 190 pounds) and Hernandez (seventh, 190 pounds). l

Juan Diego’s Star Vargas became a three-time state champion Feb. 16 with a win in her final match on the mat Feb. 16 at the 1A/2A/3A girls state championships Sevier Valley Center in the 110-pound division. (Photo courtesy Salmen Sayyed/JDCHS)

Juan Diego’s Star Vargas celebrates her third state championship with JDCHS coach Zac Petereit Feb. 16 at the 1A/2A/3A girls state championships at the Sevier Valley Center. (Photo courtesy Zac Petereit)

JDCHS basketball seasons both end in second round of playoffs

By Catherine Garrett | c.garrett@mycityjournals.com

Boys

In its first year playing in the 5A classification for boys basketball, the Juan Diego Catholic High School boys basketball team won a first round state playoff game 50-49 against Bountiful before losing to the eventual state champion Alta Hawks 68-43 Feb. 24.

“It was a pretty solid season overall, so I’m pretty pleased,” said head coach Drew Trost.

The Soaring Eagle squad went through some transition in going up against bigger schools in nearly every game this season which led to some growing pains. “It was certainly more of a challenge playing that level night in and night out,” Trost said. So, Trost was particularly pleased with his team’s effort on senior night against Skyline Feb. 17 where they pulled out a 77-76 overtime win. Juan Diego had been on a four-game slide and the gutty performance of his varsity squad included a buzzer-beater by sophomore Bryton Valdes which sent the game to overtime and eventually into the state playoffs five days later.

“I was really proud of the grit and determination our guys showed when things weren’t going great,” Trost said. “But, they played tough and just battled.”

Sophomore Noah Bendinger led the team offensively this season with 19 points a game while junior Derelle Desire averaged 11 points. Trost credited the leadership and defense of leading rebounder Malik Harris—who will be playing Division 1 baseball next season at Memphis—and fellow seniors Camilo Ramirez and Colby Bryant.

“Our seniors were just terrific all year and their presence on the floor always made such a difference for us,” Trost said. “They were excellent and certainly led us in our inaugural 5A season.”

Also on the JDCHS squad this season were senior Alijah Bendinger; juniors JJ Aguirre, Caden Fenger and Maui Richmond; sophomores Dawson Bengtzen, Hans Carlson, Hunter Chamberlin, Devan James, Dylan Magleby, Luke Meyer, Darion Otto, Marcus Pino, Tony Rosas and Jake Wyatt; and freshmen Javier Aguirre, Bandon Backman, Ben Bayer, Deng Deng, Gargang Deng, Braylen Fail, Aidan Janiga, Chris Jimerson, Nico Mayorga, Trey Nicolodemos, Noah Schuyler and Rahiti Tinirauarii.

Trost was assisted by Joe Colosimo, James MacIntyre, JD Ahlstrom and Matt Kitzman on the coaching staff this season.

“We’ve got a lot of young talent who got to play a lot, so we feel pretty good about that,” Trost said. “We need to continue to build depth with strong and mature players as we set up for the future.”

Girls

The Juan Diego girls squad reached the second round of the 3A state playoffs with a win over South Summit 65-52 Feb. 15. Senior Alynn Crooms, the team’s leading scorer, had 25 points in the win while freshman Quincy Kegel added 16.

Their season ended three days later with a 55-42 loss to second-seeded Richfield behind 11 points from Crooms.

“It was a great first-round home win against South Summit,” said head coach Ashlee McKray. “Then, we fell short against a very strong team in Richfield.”

The Soaring Eagle squad finished the year with a 12-12 record, led by Crooms with 12 points a game and Kegel with nine. “Both of these players had a phenomenal year for us,” McKray said.

Senior Melissa Osmundson was credited by McKray as the team’s “anchor” defensively. “She battled some injuries late in the season, but she made a huge difference for us when she was on the court.”

McKray also noted the play of senior Jenna Butkovich this season. “Jenna was an amazing utility player for us,” she said. “We asked her to play every position at some point and she was solid at each one of them.”

Also on the JDCHS team this year were seniors Brianna Aquilla, Nyrvanah Crockett and Annette Rodriguez; junior Zoe Pappas; sophomores Gigi Garcia, Tea Gostevcic, Avie Hernandez, Ariela Martinez,

Clarissa Sanchez, Sanjula Sunil and Denver Whaley; and freshmen Elly Clark, Hannah Haney, Kaitlin Hulverson, Ayen Kuath, Maile Mataele, Malena Modtland, Ellie Palmer, Madison Pickers, Ella Sebit, Niella Sebit, Leini Tui and Sienna Vonderohe.

McKray was assisted on the coaching staff by Leia Stechschulte, Shannon Beck and Grace Dullanty.l

Juan Diego Catholic High School senior Colby Bryant was a key leader for the Soaring Eagle team in its first year playing in the 5A classification. (Photo courtesy Mikelle Marston)

Juan Diego Catholic High School senior Malik Harris was a key leader for the Soaring Eagle team in its first year playing in the 5A classification. (Photo courtesy Mikelle Marston)

Council reappoints three volunteers to Traverse Ridge board

By Mimi Darley Dutton | m.dutton@mycityjournals.com

Seven individuals interviewed for three volunteer positions on the Traverse Ridge Special Service District Administrative Control Board (TRSSDACB). The Draper City Council appointed Daryl Acumen, Ben Frederick and Drew Joosten to four-year terms. Acumen and Frederick have already been serving on the board and Joosten has been volunteering as treasurer.

“We were very pleased to have so many who wanted to do that hard job. We had the best group of applicants we’ve seen,” Mayor Troy Walker said.

Councilmember Mike Green commented on choosing the same people who’ve recently been volunteering. “We’ve come a long way. There was a time when this entity was adverse to this council, so I don’t want to interrupt that (current good relationship),” Green said.

Established in 1999, TRSSD residents pay a special tax in addition to regular city taxes to cover expenses unique to their mountain community. Those extra expenses include special streetlights, extra snow equipment and plowing, and road maintenance and repair.

In 2014, Draper City established an advisory board made up of TRSSD residents and tasked the board with determining a budget and establishing a tax rate for those special services. Previously, the city had encouraged the TRSSD to build up a fund balance for maintenance of Deer Ridge Drive. But an adversarial relationship developed between the city and the board (and some TRSSD residents), largely because that group opposed paying for the reconstruction of Deer Ridge Drive. The group entered into litigation with the city and successfully passed a referendum to not increase taxes.

“We ultimately settled litigation. The city would reconstruct Deer Ridge Drive and it wouldn’t come out of their funds. It was poorly built and that persuaded me. It makes sense for the city to fix the road and we are doing it,” Walker said in an August 2022 interview.

Acumen, who works as an analyst, was first appointed to the board in 2020. He became chair in 2021 and served in that position for all of 2022. He and others serving on the board realized the TRSSD was in financial straits. According to Acumen, following the referendum, the previous board cut the assessment by 75% and used the fund balance the city had encouraged them to have to pay for snow plowing, attorney fees, etc. He said there was one year that residents of the TRSSD paid nothing. “The TRSSD spends more in snow removal alone than we take in from the tax assessment,” Acumen said in an August 2022 in-

terview.

Because Acumen and his fellow board members found the TRSSD “insolvent” and the city knew the TRSSD was unable to pay its bills, a truth in taxation hearing was held in August 2022 and an increased tax rate was approved. Acumen estimates the new rate is $359 per household per year on average. The new tax rate took effect almost immediately after it was passed and the board got the funds upfront. “That’s why we have the cash to fix the budget…to pay for snow removal,” he said.

Acumen said the new tax rate was “positively received” once people understood where the TRSSD stood financially. “Since then, the most common comment is that we should have raised it higher. Residents up here have an expectation of a level of service for snow removal and we have to be willing to pay for it,” he said.

Acumen and his fellow board members are strongly considering a special assessment to once again build up a cash reserve for heavy snow years like this one. “We all want the snow, we’re in a drought, but if we have one more year like this, we’re going to go bankrupt. I think this summer we’re going to push for a special assessment,” he said.

Acumen appreciates that the city took over road maintenance and reconstructed Deer Ridge Drive. “That goodwill gesture sort of fixed everything. The working relationship with the city is a big deal. We’ve worked really hard to change the tone… from antagonistic…to a more constructive tone,” he said. “I think everyone is on the same page and the respect has returned.” l

Daryl Acumen will continue to serve as chair of the Traverse Ridge Special Service District Administrative Control Board. (Courtesy Daryl Acumen)

Cremation Services

LOCAL FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

‘Cohesive and supportive’ JDCHS hockey team finishes third in state

By Catherine Garrett | c.garrett@mycityjournals.com

The Juan Diego Catholic High School hockey team ended a 15-3 season with a 13-0 loss to Park City in the Division I semifinals of the Utah High School Hockey Feb. 22.

“It was great to finish in third place, especially for having the smallest team in the state,” said head coach Moe Van der Sluys. “We couldn’t be more proud of what these players accomplished. Not only did the team succeed, but we had some amazing individual achievements.”

JDCHS sophomore Wyatt Hanna, who was honored as the Most Valuable Player in the state, was the top goal scorer this season in Utah with 46 goals. He also finished first in game-winning goals with eight and third in points which combines goals and assists.

Freshman goalie Aidan Janiga was tops in the state with 14 wins and second overall in shutouts with five.

Soaring Eagle players who were named State All-Stars were Hanna, Janiga, Tommy Filidore and Jake Odell along with alternates

Matthew Odell and William Conley.

Van der Sluys also noted the “strong performances” this season of captains Filidore, Matthew Odell and Tommy Rock and the contributions of Filidore and the team’s other senior Jackson Tenzer.

“Overall, this was the most cohesive and supportive team I’ve coached in high school over the last 13 years,” he said.

Also on the JDCHS squad were Jack Cunningham, Weston Eder, Ethan Maxedon, Zachary Meehan, Bryson Newport and Miles Sears.

Van der Sluys was assisted by Matt Alter and Mike Sears on the coaching staff this year.

“I look forward to the future and we hope to get even more players coming to Juan Diego so the program can grow to what I know it could be,” Van der Sluys said.

The Juan Diego hockey team will begin summer league play in May. Anyone interested in playing for the program can contact coach Van der Sluys at Maurice.vandersluys@gmail. com. l

You may choose a burial plot, urn garden, scattering gardens, columbarium niche, or memory wall at our on-site crematory. Whether your family would like a direct cremation without a ceremony or would like to enlist the help of our funeral planners for a memorial ceremony, we are here to help. Choose traditional funeral services or life celebrations to honor the life of your loved one.

As you plan the end-of-life services, there are dozens of decisions to make during an emotional time. LET OUR TEAM HELP YOU choose urns, vaults, and memorials. We can also help with flower arrangements, catering, and grief resources.

You can count on a variety of options for cremation services when you choose Larkin Mortuary.

The JDCHS hockey team finished third in the state with a 15-3 overall record. (Photo courtesy Moe Van der Sluys)

Corner Canyon swimmer completes three-peat

Corner Canyon High’s Karson Spencer stood atop the podium for the 100 butterfly for the third season in a row at the 6A state swimming championships. This year, he set a new school record in the event with a time of 51.15 Feb. 18 at Brigham Young University. The senior also finished second in the 200 Individual Medley setting another school mark in 1:58.13 to help the boys place third as a team, marking the third consecutive year that the boys have been in the top three at state. The girls came in 10th place.

“State was good,” Spencer said. “I’m glad I was able to hold onto my 100 fly all three years.”

Also earning state titles for the Chargers were sophomore Jordan Barlow in the Unified Swimming Division 2 50 and 100 freestyle events along with freshman Bryce Armendariz in the Unified Swimming Division 1 50 free.

Other Corner Canyon swimmers earning All-State recognition at the state meet were junior Konnor Spencer with a fourth-place showing in the 100 breaststroke in a school-record time of 1:00.91; senior Lily Afualo finishing fifth in the 500 free and seventh in the 200 free; senior Ruby Winget taking seventh in the 100 back and eighth in the 200 free; senior Ryan McNeill coming in eighth in the 50 free; and junior James Lillian with an eighth-place finish in the 100 back. The 200 medley relay lineup

By Catherine Garrett | c.garrett@mycityjournals.com

of Karson Spencer, Konnor Spencer, McNeill and sophomore Sam Lloyd also took second in the event, just four-tenths of a second behind Skyridge’s team.

“The kids swam great with almost every swimmer having lifetime bests,” said CCHS head coach Pat Thurman. “There was a lot of emotion throughout the meet, more so than what I remember from other years. I'm not really sure where it was coming from, but I do know this has been an incredible group to work with. This was the largest group of ninth graders to start and it is the largest group of graduating seniors that Corner Canyon has ever had. They have been through a lot over the past four years, they care for each other, and they absolutely understand the concept of hard work.”

The three-time state champion Karson Spencer began swimming eight years ago and quickly switched soccer for swimming. “I was better at swimming than soccer, and I like being good at what I do,” he said.

His first state title in 2021 as a sophomore was particularly special to Karson Spencer as he was coming off of knee surgery from the previous year. “Being able to win was just a fulfilling moment for me,” he said.

The senior has learned dedication and persistence from his hours each day in the water. “Those two-hour practices, which are sometimes twice a day, doesn’t come easi-

Annual Check-up?

ly, but I’m super grateful to everyone who’s shown me what a great sport swimming is,” Karson Spencer said, noting that he has also been coached by “Big Mike” on his club team, Team Aquatics.

Although he has some collegiate offers for swimming currently, the school recordholder in five events—the 100 fly, 100 free, 100 backstroke, 200 IM and 200 medley relay—said he will most likely just move on from the sport and simply focus on school.

Also swimming for the Chargers at state were junior Rosemary Akins, senior Caleb Bevan, senior Ferne Chirachanakul, senior Annika Gilson, senior Macie Granger, freshman Jacob Hamblin, senior Hugh Hammons, junior

Alyssa Meadows, senior Sam Morrell, junior Abbi Pelegrin, senior Brandon Smith, senior Rocky Smith, junior Brayden Towns, sophomore Halle Walker and senior Aden Wright.

“I think the best word I have is bittersweet for this season, but I can't tell you how much is bitter and how much is sweet,” Thurman said. “But, this group is special and has made me a better person and coach.”

Thurman was assisted on the coaching staff by Sheridyn Cook and former CCHS swimmers Victoria Blow and McKay Larsen. “I have to thank them for all they have brought this season,” Thurman said. “They are amazing coaches and fill a vital niche within the team.” l

The Corner Canyon High boys swimming team placed third at the 6A state swimming championships at Brigham Young University Feb. 18. The girls squad finished 10th. (Photo courtesy Pat Thurman)

Corner Canyon High’s Karson Spencer won the 100 butterfly for the third year in a row at the 6A state swimming championships, this time Feb. 18 at BYU. The senior holds the school record in the 100 fly along with four other events. (Photo courtesy Karson Spencer)

Corner Canyon boys basketball cap off dominating year with state title

By Catherine Garrett | c.garrett@mycityjournals.com

When the Corner Canyon High boys basketball team left the Dee Events Center court at Weber State University following a 43-39 loss to American Fork a year ago in the 6A state championship game, they resolved to turn the devastation they felt into a drive. On March 4, they again matched up with the Cavemen on the same court for the 6A title and this time they hoisted the trophy after a 66-51 victory.

“These kids set a goal that they would be back and that they were going to win it,” said head coach Dan Lunt. “This championship is a direct result of the work, the blood, the sweat and the tears that these kids put in ever since.”

Senior Jaxson Roberts scored 24 points to lead the Chargers while senior Max Toombs added 21 and junior Brody Kozlowski recorded a double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds.

The trio were recognized on the 6A All-Tournament team with Roberts earning Most Valuable Player honors, shooting 63% from the field through three state playoff games while averaging nearly 21 points, four rebounds, five assists and more than three steals.

Corner Canyon entered state as the No. 1 overall seed, and after a first-round

bye, defeated Herriman 71-55 in the second round, Westlake 83-53 in the quarterfinals and Lone Peak 72-54 in the semis to reach the final game.

Kozlowski was named the MaxPreps Utah High School Player of the Year as the junior averaged nearly 18 points a game, eighth in 6A, shooting 50% from the field— including nearly 40% from three-point range—on the season and 82% at the free throw line. He also led 6A in rebounds with close to 12 a game while also ranking in the top 20 in blocks and steals.

Toombs was third in 6A with 21 points a game while Roberts’ 15 points per game was among the top-20 in the classification.

The Chargers went 18-0 against Utah teams this season, beating opponents by an average of 18 points. They rolled through Region 4 with an undefeated showing through 10 games with the closest matchup being a six-point win over Westlake a few weeks before state. Two of those wins were over American Fork by 10 and 19 points, respectively.

The Corner Canyon High boys basketball team won the 6A championship by defeating American Fork 66-51 March 4 at Weber State University. (Photo courtesy Jon Clifford, All-Star Photography)

Corner Canyon High senior Jaxson Roberts was named the 6A Tournament MVP in leading the Chargers to the 6A state title. (Photo courtesy Jon Clifford, All-Star Photography)

Also on the CCHS team that finished 25-2 overall were seniors Owen Borg and Carsen Tebbs; juniors Tate Bowman, Sam Chandler, Taylor Feroah, Kallen Lewis, Isaac Neibaur and Wells Robertson; sophomores Hudson Brown, Brigg Jensen, Tag Jensen, Peterson Lunt, Enoch Mitchell, Paxton Naegle, McKay Wells and Stockton Young; and freshman Tyler Mortensen.

Lunt was assisted on the coaching staff by Evric Gray, Taylor Anderson, Perrin Anderl, Jonas Jones and Tom Morris with Rob Geertsen, Jon Clifford, Ric Petersen and Kasch Hart also providing support services for the team this year.

On March 7, Corner Canyon was invited to participate in the State Champions Invitational in Washington, D.C., April 6-8 with an all-expenses paid trip to the tournament.

The games will be televised on ESPN,

marking the ninth time this year the Chargers can showcase its talent against teams from other states as they previously faced squads from Maryland, Nevada, Idaho, Missouri, Texas, Arizona and Colorado.

They will also compete in the prestigious Section 7 tournament June 23-25 in Arizona.

Girls

Corner Canyon finished the regular season with an 11-point loss to Pleasant Grove Feb. 17. Four days later, the 17-seeded Chargers defeated No. 16 Vikings 63-49 in the first round of the 6A state tournament.

Junior Elina Mortensen scored 10 first-quarter points to help Corner Canyon lead 17-13 after the first eight minutes. Senior Summer Larson led the team with 20 points, 16 of which were in the pivotal fourth quarter when the Chargers went on a 13-0 run to start the final eight minutes and break

open a four-point game. Their defense held the Vikings scoreless in the fourth until just under four minutes left in the game.

“I thought we played a really great second half against Pleasant Grove,” said head coach Craig Morris. “Our defense carried us down the stretch.”

From there, Corner Canyon faced the 6A state champs in Lone Peak, a top-10 team in the country, for the third time this season. On Feb. 23, in the second round of the playoffs, the Chargers lost to the Knights 88-43.

“We ran into Lone Peak again,” Morris said. “Tough to beat the eighth-ranked team in the nation.”

Mortensen led the squad, which finished with an 8-16 record, this season with 17 points and six rebounds a game while Larson averaged nearly nine a contest.

“We grew a lot,” Morris said. “Adversity isn’t fun, but it’s so good for you. We

learned a lot about ourselves and battled the best teams in the state night in and night out.”

Also on the CCHS team were seniors Clara Hazar, Caitlin Madsen, Maddie White and Brook Yeomans; juniors Boston Carlson and Maia Rhay; sophomores Liberty Henstrom, Maddi Little, Brooke Luper, Sorrelle Nielson and Kenzie Randall; and freshmen Addy Hamilton, Hailee Johnson, Kate LeRoy, Lexi LeRoy and Addi Yeomans.

“We had several sophomores and freshmen step up and provide a huge boost—the future is so bright at Corner Canyon,” Morris said. “We’ll work our butts off this summer and create bonds amongst teammates that’ll make us a great team.”l

Corner Canyon High senior Max Toombs was the Chargers’ leading scorer this season in leading the Chargers to the 6A state title. (Photo courtesy Jon Clifford, All-Star Photography)

Corner Canyon High junior Brody Kozlowski, who was named the MaxPreps Utah High School Player of the Year, averaged a double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds a game in leading the Chargers to the 6A state title. (Photo courtesy Jon Clifford, All-Star Photography)

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CCHS wrestling squads fourth best at state tournament

The Corner Canyon High wrestling teams finished fourth at the 6A state wrestling championships Feb. 15-16 at Utah Valley University behind three second-place finishes.

Sophomore Leimana Fager was runner-up in the boys 175-pound division while junior Isabella Morgan (145 pounds) and freshman Clarion Fager (170 pounds) came in second in title matches on the girls side.

“I’m really proud of the way our guys battled at the state tournament,” said CCHS boys coach Jeff Eure.

“We had our first two finalists this year which is a good step in the second year of being sanctioned. They did great and both of them could have won those matches,” said girls head coach John Fager. “All our girls wrestled awesome and fought hard, and we did better than last year placing eight girls this time.”

Leimana Fager defeated Farmington’s Cole Murray, Layton’s Elijah Hawes, Layton’s Ethan Hearne before losing to Herriman’s Carson Grundy in the title match.

Morgan beat Clearfield’s Brinlee Hamblin, Weber’s Addison Grant, Layton’s Haley Diaz to reach the championship against Westlake’s Emmy Finlinson.

Clarion Fager defeated West Jordan’s Kiowa Drave, teammate Midori Kano, Granger’s Matamoan Malohifoou before losing to Copper Hills’ Anya Hatch in the title match.

Other showings for the boys team—who placed 10 wrestlers this season, a program best—were senior Tyler Vivanco (third, 120 pounds), sophomore Payden Woolsey (third, 144 pounds), junior Collin Webb (third, 190 pounds), sophomore Kaydon Williams (third, 285

By Catherine Garrett | c.garrett@mycityjournals.com

pounds), sophomore Hudson York (fourth, 106 pounds), senior Quinn Bedell (fifth, 132 pounds), junior Caleb Robinson (sixth, 165 pounds), senior Teancum Mitchell (sixth, 215 pounds) and sophomore Naimana Filivaolelei (sixth, 285 pounds) while freshman Liam Eller (120 pounds) and sophomore Nathan Holladay (215 pounds) also qualified for the 6A state tournament.

For the girls at state, sophomore Meleana Fager and junior Makayla Talauega both placed third at 135 pounds and 140 pounds, respectively, while sophomore Kate Donaldson (115 pounds), sophomore Olivia Byington (125 pounds), junior Amaya Kano (140 pounds) and senior Kamylle Nez (155 pounds) took fifth in their divisions. Also qualifying for state were senior Kate Scheuenemann (120 pounds), senior Catalina Giraldo (125 pounds), junior Isabelle Chambers (135 pounds) and junior Midori Kano (170 pounds).

Also on the CCHS boys squad that finished with a program-best 15 wins in its 21 dual meets this season were Byron Ahlstrom, Brayden Bath, Btayden Belote, Caleb Berg, Skylar Bills, Bryton Brady, Yitzhak Contreras, Gilbert Curry, Austin Du Priest, Ace Edmunds, Jagger Gamache, Logan Garner, Tomasi Hasson, Quinn Hawker, Charles Horman, Milo Jonas, Rodney King, Deken Knowles, Trofym Krystkaliuj, Bridger Matthews, Oliver McMillan, Rudger Nichols, Kyle Nye, Gabriel Ortiz, Jayden Pearce, Connor Preece, Rylan Quintana, Roman Rowell, Bentley Smith, Kaigan Solberg, Mitchell Ward and Kolton Williams.

Eure was assisted on the coaching staff this season by Greg Lamb, Mark Thomas, Brandon Watts, Kyle Smith,

Matt Hood, Alex Montbriand, Zane Rasmussen, Derek Malan and Adam Ostrander.

Other girls on the team were Scout Askar, Gwen Curry, Ally Larson, Kalia Ochoa and Natalia Robles.

Coach Fager, was assisted by his wife Rowanna Fager, Brandon Watts, Adam Ostrander and Salote Toa Palu Filivao on the girls staff this year.

“Year in and year out our program continues to get better and the future is bright,” Eure said.

“Both of our teams return a lot of state placers next season,” said coach Fager. “The boys and girls teams both have a good chance of holding a trophy next year.” l

Corner Canyon High sophomore Leimana Fager placed second in the 175-pound division at the 6A state wrestling championships Feb. 16 at Utah Valley University. (Photos courtesy Robin Simmons)

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First, robots came for assembly line workers. Then they came for agricultural and warehouse jobs. Then a cyborg assassin time-traveled from 2029 to 1984 to kill Sarah Connor. What will artificial intelligence target next?

If you ask our publisher, journalism is on the robotic chopping block. He recently sat down with our editorial team and told us we’d better get our act together or AI will certainly replace us within five years.

It’s the plot of every sci-fi movie. “Let’s merge robotic efficiency and human connection to create a utopian workplace.” But then, the robots download a virus and turn into killing machines. It doesn’t end well for humanity.

But let’s back up a bit. When encyclopedias were created in the 1700s, people were astonished to have so much information at their fingertips. What’s an encyclopedia you ask? Thanks for asking, young whippersnapper.

Encyclopedias are books bound in fake leather that weigh the equivalent of a baby hippo. They were like printed versions of Wikipedia that became outdated as soon as they were purchased. They were used for footstools and sometimes for murder weapons.

Rage Against the Machine

Peri Kinder Life and Laughter

came chatbots, or virtual assistants, like Siri, who learned to answer our stupid questions with a bit of sass.

Now, journalists are encouraged to use AI to produce copy. ChatGPT launched in November and millions of people have tried it out, creating everything from poetry to fake news. It’s like a Google search on steroids.

In fact, it’s so good at creating fake news, that the CNET media website published stories for months before the articles were discovered to be riddled with errors, misinformation and plagiarized material. Oops.

Following my publisher’s orders, I typed a few questions into ChatGPT and immediately ran into a virtual brick wall.

“How many people are living on Earth?” I asked. ChatGPT replied 7.9 billion but added its data ended in September 2021. I guess anyone born after that date doesn’t count.

by

son?

emotionless robots like Tucker Carl -

Sometimes, the “journalism” churned out by AI is racist, offensive and inappropriate because, and here’s the issue, humans create code for these bots. Fallible, stupid humans who unintentionally create programming that mimics their own limiting beliefs.

In These Times writer Hamilton Nolan said, “Journalism is the product of a human mind. If something did not come from a human mind, it is not journalism.”

He said journalism requires accountability. The writer should be able to explain the origins and sources of any story. Can AI do that? Will robots request interviews from other robots? When questioned, will AI fall to pieces like HAL in 2001: A Space Odyssey after being given contradictory orders: lie to the crew but be completely truthful. Pretty much like anything on Twitter.

They were also used for rampant plagiarism. Teachers often received essays copied straight from Encyclopedia Britannica.

As technology advanced, plagiarism got easier with the ability to copy-andpaste from any website; more efficient and much harder to detect. Then along

I asked it to tell me a joke. ChatGPT explained it didn’t have a sense of humor or emotions and didn’t understand jokes. So it could be a Utah legislator.

So, will AI adapt to create personality, voice, humor and journalistic ethics or will future generations get used to reading pedantic and pretentious articles written

I’m mixing movie metaphors, but if Sarah Connor’s interactions with the Terminator taught us anything, it’s that we control our own destiny. Can we unite robotic efficiency and humanity? The fate of journalism could hang in the balance.

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