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Where to grab a bite after your hike Page 8
Where do city leaders enjoy a good meal?
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
The Holladay City Council offers its foodie favorites.
EveryFriday morning, Holladay Mayor
Paul Fotheringham can be found at Sharon’s Cafe enjoying the spinach and feta egg scramble, with a side of fruit and a fresh biscuit with jam.
“The rest of the week can be anything and everything,” he said. “I’m not picky. But I know what I’m having at Sharon’s on Friday morning.”
Fotheringham also enjoys a variety of “homey” foods, whether that’s cafe items, burgers or meals based on Thai, Lebanese, Japanese or Spanish cuisine.
Holladay’s food scene boasts a surprisingly diverse array of eateries. From upscale and elegant to casual and local, residents can find a restaurant to fit nearly every craving imaginable. As restaurant owners discover the unique vibe of Holladay, they are bringing more options from a wide range of cultural backgrounds, including Mexican, Italian and Middle Eastern.
“The food scene in Holladay has really taken off, and I love it,” said Councilmember Natalie Bradley. “We can now find flavors and cuisines from all over the world right here in our community. From longtime favorites like Crown Burger and Real Taqueria to newer spots like French Bakehouse and Monti’s, there’s truly something for everyone.”
Greek City Grill is another Holladay favorite for Bradley. Some of her best memories involve going to her Greek grandmother’s home and sharing kourabiedes, a shortbread-style almond cookie, with her cousins.
“I have a deep appreciation for baking and can rarely turn down a freshly baked treat or pastry,” she said. “As someone who loves to bake, I know the time, patience and care that go into creating the treats we enjoy.”
Councilmember Emily Gray loves Mexican food and baked goods, so Real Taqueria, Taqueria 27 and French Bakehouse are some of her favorite eateries. Layla Mediterranean Grill and Summerhays Halibut and Chips hit the spot for Councilmember Drew Quinn.
Councilmember Matt Durham also enjoys Real Taqueria and tends to gravitate toward food from other cultures. “It is interesting to try different flavors and preparations,” he said.
For Councilmember Dave Sundwall, being an “equal opportunity lover of food” means he can enjoy Spanish tapas at Café Madrid, street tacos or enchiladas at Real Taqueria or a classic American meal at Crown Burger.
“Holladay’s food scene punches well above its weight for a city its size,” Sundwall said, “offering a great selection of local and nonchain options.”
Residents from across Salt Lake County and beyond travel to Holladay to find favorite dining spots. For decades, The Cotton Bottom has served its garlic burgers and chili cheese
fries. Caputo’s Deli offers fresh sandwiches, pastas and salads, and Franck’s provides an intimate setting for fine dining. Now, new places like Magnolia Bakery and Bobby’s Burgers by Bobby Flay are adding to the mix.
“I love seeing new restaurants open, and I always get excited to try what they’re bringing to the table,” Bradley said. “It’s been fun watching Holladay’s dining scene grow and evolve, and I can’t wait to see what comes next.” l
A young guest peruses the options at Magnolia Bakery (1895 E. Rodeo Walk Drive), one of the newest food options in the city. (Peri Kinder/City Journals)
DUST MITES POLLEN PET DANDER BACTERIA
COMMON GROUND
Utah’s future belongs to the brave
Common Ground will be a column of rotating viewpoints that highlight specific feelings across the political spectrum, and it will always end with possible ways to come together.
Bravery is a Utah value. It’s right up there with toxic positivity and passive aggression. Many of us have brave ancestors who left their homes and walked hundreds of miles to the Salt Lake Valley, pulling a handcart full of kids who kept asking, “Are we there yet?” That takes courage.
In the face of religious persecution, the pioneers built communities, orchards, temples, schools and arts programs because they were not afraid to do hard things.
It’s time for that type of bravery again. We need to speak our hearts and our truths, and not be led by political partisanship. We need to vote for the people who stand for us, not profit from us.
It’s not just Democrats who believe federal leadership has been catastrophic. It’s not just Democrats who are disappointed in our state’s leadership. Look at the primary election where Republicans voted out three prominent legislators: that took courage. It took people voting their conscience, not just swallowing the party line.
HOLLADAY TEAM
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Peri Kinder Common Ground
Bravery means standing for what’s right, even in the face of opposition. It means we choose communities over conflicts and the future over fear. Courage puts people first. It shows we care about people who want healthcare, food, housing, education and inclusion. Those aren’t elite desires. Those are human needs.
The people of Utah want to take back their power. We’re tired of seeing state leaders making shady deals, getting backroom payoffs and pushing legislation that benefits their personal bottom line. How many property developers do we need on Capitol Hill? Good grief!
Bravery means leading differently. Instead of voting along straight party lines (even if your family has been a one-party family for decades), what if we voted for the people we believe have the power to change the status quo?
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Real leaders are courageous; they lead with compassion and understand that empathy isn’t a dirty word. They don’t represent one party; they represent their constituents.
The people who showed up to protest ICE detention facilities or resource-draining data centers weren’t just Democrats. They were Republicans and independent voters who don’t want what these politicians are selling. We have Topaz in our backyard. What bigger reminder do we need that history cannot repeat itself here?
Bravery means we believe in each other. We’re not Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians, Reformists or Constitutionalists. We are Utahns. Our brand is kindness and optimism. We build communities, we serve the disadvantaged, we teach the uneducated and we offer open hearts to the stranger.
That’s who we are. That’s who we’ve always been.
Common Ground: No matter our political affiliation, we
CIRCULATION COORDINATOR
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need to become bridge builders. We need to reach out to neighbors and family members, even those who don’t agree with our political views.
Lawmakers need to build, not destroy. Create laws and messaging that resonate with people from every political background. This is a red state economically, but a blue state at heart. Just look at our programs built to help people, to assist someone’s journey as they get back on their feet. Utah has a worldwide reputation for service and volunteerism.
We should promote conversations that bring people together with respect and understanding. We should ensure people have the opportunity to express their views without censure or disdain. If our current leaders can’t do that, it’s time to make an abrupt change.
If the primary election taught us anything, it’s that Utahns want a voice. It takes courage to change course. It takes all of us to lead the way.
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Back to School Tips
Back-to-School Health Boost: A Parent’s Guide to a Thriving School Year
AS SUMMER ENDS, the return of backpacks, homework, and early mornings signals a critical time for parents. Prioritizing health now can lay a strong foundation for a child’s successful, healthy, and happy school year.
“The back-to-school transition can be a shock to a child’s system,” explains Dr. Jared Lambert, a CommonSpirit family medicine physician in West Jordan. “They face new schedules, germs, and academic pressures. Proactive health measures are crucial to ease this adjustment and prevent illness or burnout.”
Here are key areas parents should focus on:
1. Reclaim Sleep Schedules, One Bedtime at a Time
Summer often brings later bedtimes. However, adequate sleep is vital for a child’s health and academic performance. “Lack of sleep affects concentration, mood, and immunity,” warns Dr. Natividad Rodriguez, a CommonSpirit family physician in Layton. “Start gradually adjusting bedtimes now, even by 15 minutes each night.” Aim for 9-12 hours of sleep for elementary students, fostering a calming routine with baths or reading.
2. Power Up with Nutritious Fuel
A well-balanced diet fuels both body and mind. “Focus on lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables,” advises Dr. Trystan Blake, a CommonSpirit family physician in Salt Lake City. “A protein- and fiber-rich breakfast sustains them through morning lessons.” Involve children in packing healthy lunches and encourage consistent hydration with a reusable water bottle.
3. Build a Strong Immune Shield
Schools are germ hotbeds. Beyond regular handwashing, ensure your child’s vaccinations are current. “A pre-school physical is ideal for reviewing vaccination schedules and addressing health concerns,” notes Dr. Lambert. “Also, remind them about covering coughs and sneezes, and not sharing water bottles or food.” Sleep and nutrition also boost immunity.
4. Tend to Their Emotional Well-being
The start of school can bring excitement and anxiety. New teachers, classmates, and routines can be overwhelming. “It’s vi-
ố 1-303-643-1000 (TTY: 711).
tal to check in about how they’re feeling,” emphasizes Dr. Rodriguez. “Create a safe space to discuss worries about friends or schoolwork. Reassure them that these feelings are normal and you’re there to support them.” Encourage open communication, validate emotions, and teach coping strategies like deep breathing.
5. Move Their Bodies, Boost Their Minds
Ensure children get at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily. “Physical activity impacts cognitive function and stress reduction,” Dr. Blake observes. “Active children are often more focused and resilient.” The back-to-school season doesn’t have to be a scramble. By addressing these health aspects proactively, you can equip your child for a year of learning, growth, and vibrant health. A little planning now leads to great success.
For more information or to find a provider visit mountain.commonspirit.org
Learn more about the services, care providers and mission-driven work of the Holy Cross hospitals and CommonSpirit Health at www. holycrossutah.org.
At CommonSpirit Health, we make the healing presence of God known in our world by improving the health of the people we serve, especially those who are vulnerable, while we advance social justice for all.
minutes count, count on our
care. Get to know us before you need us.
When you need emergency care fast, the closest emergency room is a smart thing to know. You never know the level of care you’ll need when an emergency happens and choosing the right ER can make all the difference. And a hospital ER comes with the confidence of additional services right on-site.
CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – Salt Lake has been awarded Chest Pain Center Accreditation from the American College of Cardiology (ACC). Facilities that achieve accreditation meet or exceed an array of stringent criteria for evaluating, diagnosing and treating patients who may be experiencing a heart attack.
Find emergency care close to you at mountain.commonspirit.org.
The road to Utah’s best tamales apparently leads to a parking lot
While saving for a full-sized food truck, Itzel Erandi has built a devoted fan base from a crimson van parked beside a gas station, one tamale at a time.
By Shaun Delliskave s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com
It’snot every day that a parking lot becomes a culinary destination. Yet on Sundays, while some Utahns are searching for brunch reservations, others are searching for a crimson van near a grocery store. Why? Because House Tamales is rumored to serve the best tamales in Utah. Whether that’s officially recognized by any governing body of tamale experts remains unclear, but the growing crowds around owner Itzel Erandi’s van suggest the public has already reached a verdict.
On most Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays, customers begin lining up near the Smith’s Marketplace at 845 E. 4500 South, drawn by the aroma of fresh tamales and the promise of a meal worth planning a weekend around. What started as a simple idea has grown into one of the valley’s most beloved mobile food businesses.
Behind House Tamales is Itzel Erandi, a native of Michoacán, Mexico, who has lived in the United States for the past seven years with her husband and three children.
The story behind the tamales begins long before the crimson van.
“I learned how to make tamales from my mother back in Michoacán,” Erandi
Fortunately for Utah tamale lovers, she acted on that impulse.
What customers may not realize is the amount of work hidden inside every tamale. While many people are sleeping, Erandi is already hard at work preparing the next day’s batch.
“My work begins early and requires many hours of preparation,” she explained.
Her day starts at 6 a.m. by boiling meats before preparing both red and green sauces and shredding the meat. Around 7 p.m., she begins assembling tamales and works until approximately 9:30 p.m.
If that sounds like a long day, she’s not finished.
The next morning starts at 4 a.m., when she begins cooking the tamales. While they steam, she prepares what she describes as her special “magical” green sauce before packing everything and heading out to serve customers.
That’s right. While many of us are debating whether we have enough energy to hit the snooze button one more time, Erandi has already started cooking hundreds of tamales.
The effort appears to be paying off.
said. “To this day, I believe that her seasoning is what makes these tamales so special. There is something magical about a mother’s cooking.”
That family tradition remains at the heart of every tamale she sells.
Unlike many food businesses that begin with elaborate business plans and
spreadsheets, House Tamales was born from something much simpler.
“The idea of selling tamales from my truck came naturally,” she said. “It wasn’t something I planned, it simply came to me one day. I just knew that I wanted people to experience and enjoy the tamales that mean so much to my family and me.”
“Knowing that so many people love my tamales brings me great satisfaction and happiness,” she said. “I am deeply grateful to every customer who supports my business.”
The business currently operates three days each week, with Sundays proving especially popular.
“Thanks to God, the three days each week that we sell are successful for us, and Sundays are especially busy,” she said.
Ask Erandi about her favorite item on the menu and she doesn’t hesitate.
“Personally, my favorite tamales are the chicken tamales with green sauce,” she said, “and it seems that many of my customers agree.”
Given the growing crowds surrounding the crimson van, those customers appear to know exactly what they’re talking about.
For now, House Tamales continues serving customers from its mobile setup, but Erandi has bigger ambitions.
“Looking toward the future, my dream is to own and operate a larger food truck, one that will allow me to serve more customers while providing a safer and more comfortable experience for everyone,” she said.
Until then, customers can continue finding House Tamales in the parking lot, where a family recipe, a lot of hard work, and a little bit of “magical” green sauce have created one of Utah’s tastiest success stories.
And if you happen to see a line forming beside a crimson van on a Sunday morning, don’t worry—you haven’t stumbled upon a secret society.
You’ve just found the tamales.
For the most up-to-date schedule and locations, customers are encouraged to visit House Tamales’ Facebook page. l
Itzel Erandi is building her dream one tamale at a time. Fans of House Tamales say the journey starts with some of the best tamales in Utah. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)
A food tour of Utah’s dedicated gluten-free establishments
In the Salt Lake Valley alone, over a dozen gf businesses can be found.
By Anna Nielsen a.nielsen@mycityjournals.com
There’s no need to make a pilgrimage to Denver, Portland or Europe to find gluten-free (gf) eateries these days. Utah’s gf scene is growing. Whether you have celiac disease, gluten sensitivity or are just interested in trying some good food that happens to be gf, options abound.
Omar’s, formerly Rawtopia, sits near the mouth of Millcreek Canyon at 3961 Wasatch Blvd. The establishment boasts a unique drink selection, including spicy hemp-milk chai, and incredibly creamy dishes (despite being dairyfree), like a sunflower and almond hummus. The made-from-scratch menu caught the attention of Martha Stewart a few years back.
Everything offered is fully gf, dairy-free (df), seed-oil-free, organic and locally sourced where possible, with plenty of raw and vegan options, but the variety goes far beyond the typical salads and bowls. An extensive menu features flavor-packed chili cheese fries; coconut curry rice; berry cheesecake (coconut cashew cheese, that is); mango key lime pie and more. Portions of the high-fiber foods are filling and you’ll leave satiated, but not overstuffed.
If you seek out the sugary stuff, though, the bakeries on the list are your best bet.
Mrs. Hewitt’s Bakery often sells out of their more popular items (especially eclairs). Go early to get your hands on some! Founded by husband-and-wife duo Kimberly and Doug Hewitt in 2016 after his celiac diagnosis, the gf baking company has products (of which many are also vegan) in over 500 stores in Utah and ships to the East Coast, too.
Inside the Paris-inspired café, musettedriven melodies play, transporting you out of industrial surroundings in West Valley (3703 Parkway Blvd.). A fantastically French menu ranges from various crepes to tarts, eclairs and artisan breads. American indulgences aplenty appear on the menu, as well: giant cookies; hoagies, French dip, and grilled cheese sandwiches; cupcakes; brownies; and dinner rolls.
Good Food Gluten Free Bakery also sells out early and is tucked away in an
Peanut butter cookie, brownie and cupcake from Mrs. Hewitt’s in WVC. (Anna Nielsen/ City Journals)
this trendy spot is usually bustling.
industrial area, the Granary District, at 423 W. 800 South, Suite A113. Entering, you are faced with impossible decisions filling the displays. A revolving selection always includes yummy loaves of sweet bread in flavors like lemon, zucchini, poppyseed and pumpkin; and various scones; sometimes featuring doughnuts, frosted animal cookies or cinnamon rolls. There is no seating, so perhaps plan to enjoy your purchases on a walk around town or a picnic.
Across Salt Lake, Avenue Bakery on Fourth (376 E. 4th Ave.) has a range of gf breads, muffin tops, gourmet cupcakes and cinnamon rolls, along with rotating daily fresh pastries, hoagies, grab and go meals and local kombucha. There’s a satellite location of the original Avenue Bakery in American Fork (which is not a dedicated gf facility, but offers some gf items), and their goods are all prepared at the original American Fork bakery, “in a separate kitchen using separate tools and equipment to prevent cross-contamination,” says staff. The SLC shop opened in 2024, combining the gf versions of sweets that the first Avenue Bakery became known for with an existing gift shop called Avenues on Fourth.
At 432 S. 900 East, Raw Eddy’s headquarters, a.k.a. the Dopamine Space, has a vibrantly pink and orange interior and smells like fresh cookies. In addition to being vegan, gf, plant-based and soy-free (and supposedly made by the light of a disco ball), these snack cookies are distinguished by their atypical shape, like big gumdrops, and by being stuffed with superfood ingredients like ashwagandha. Raw Eddy’s high-protein snacks are available at their storefront, markets, online, and in 40-plus stores around Utah.
Contento Café on 2280 S. West Temple has been hard to get a seat at this year, so make a reservation before you build any weekend brunch plans around it. A modern gf, seed-oil free Mexican restaurant with authentic classics like chilaquiles, tacos, nachos, tostadas, mole, churros, flan and large gf breakfast burritos served all day,
Ten minutes down the street on 47 W. Fireclay Ave. in Murray, Fueled Coffee is an unexpected, newly-opened find. The specialty coffee roasters started as a coffee cart and grew over the last decade until finding its brick-andmortar home this year. Now with a second location coming to Syracuse, husband-and-wife co-owners Moriah and Austin Best share their journey online, including Moriah’s diagnoses of celiac and lupus, which inspired her to “create a space dedicated to those with allergies.” The rotating variety of baked goods might include lemon cake, banana chip muffins, mini-doughnuts, ultra-chocolatey brownies and sweet and savory toasts on any given day.
Zest Kitchen & Bar, both vegan and gf, is a true downtown option at 275 S. 200 West. Breakfast choices like fluffy French toast and pancakes stand out here. The organic menu spans global cultural cuisines with smash burgers, grilled “cheeses,” Philly “cheese” tofu, breakfast pizza, shakshuka, Reuben sandwiches and pastas.
Also downtown, coffee shop and café Hallowed Grounds, 370 S. 300 East, has a more limited menu for dining. Still, their sandwiches shine. Stop in for a “brekky sandy,” which is toast topped with avocado, feta, fried egg, balsamic drizzle and red onion; or one covered in Norwegian smoked salmon, capers and cream cheese. Enjoy a dog-friendly third space with light streaming through the revamped interior of Church and State, stained glass windows towering above while you wait. Other toasts, desserts like alfajores (South American sandwich cookies), and sometimes a gooey cosmic brownie are available, too.
Topping off the list are shops like Good Grains Gluten Free Bakery, which may be located in Heber, but graces the Downtown Farmers Market as a booth sometimes. Fellow vendor, Sauced Up Salsa, is also fully gf. At different markets/events around the state, Sweet Crumbs and other cottage bakeries can be found, many fulfilling weekly orders and finding customers through the Gluten Free Utah Facebook group.
Outside of the Salt Lake Valley, dedicated gf places appear everywhere: Sweet Cake in Ogden; The Breakfast Truck in Logan; cottage bakery The Vanilla Bird in Brigham City; Mountain Wellness Kitchen in Heber; Luna’s Kitchen in Park City; The Happy Chick (food truck) in Northern Utah: Hearty Beet café, HB Beverage Co., Go Go GF Farm Stand, and Find Your Fit Bakery in St. George; Locals, Chicken Boy, Ambrosial Bakery and Konala in Provo; and Bismarck Donut in Orem. Events like Gluten Free Food Truck Nights and gf markets also serve the gf community. You can order online directly from further fully gf local bakeries like Good Hope in Springville, or pick up their cookies and df brownies at Quench It! locations throughout Utah. Mom’s Place, based in Spanish Fork, carries gluten-free mixes for breads, desserts, and meals online, and distributes to stores in-state and across the country. There are plenty more local gf companies to uncover each year at the Gluten Free World Expo in Sandy, like Grandpa’s Kitchen, Hugz Snacks, Lakanto, Clean Monday Meals, Nasty Snax, Keto Chow, Gusto Brazil and others.
Honorable mentions (restaurants that are not entirely dedicated, but have a majority gf menu): Arempas, SpudToddos and Dairy Keen. To find even more gf spots worldwide, apps like Find Me GF, Atly and Gluten Advisor come in handy. l
Raw Eddy’s gumdrop-shaped fudge brownie bites are sold at the Wheeler Farm Farmers Market, Downtown Farmers Market, and their downtown headquarters. (Photo Raw Eddy’s)
A plate of Contento’s chilaquiles in SSL. (Anna Nielsen/City Journals)
A thick stack of French toast topped with berries at Zest downtown. (Anna Nielsen/City Journals)
Berry coconut cashew cheesecake and key lime mango pie at Omar’s in Millcreek. (Anna Nielsen/City Journals)
Best post-hike food spots in Salt Lake and Davis County
Enjoy a great hike, then stop by one of these places for fantastic bites.
By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com
What pairs with mountain views and waterfalls? A hearty breakfast or scrumptious lunch. There’s nothing like a good meal after hiking trails in the Wasatch Range or Oquirrh Mountains and local restaurants offer everything from juicy ribs to savory crepes. Here are a few options to try after your next hiking adventure.
Eggs In the City, 2795 S. 2300 East, Millcreek
With its outdoor seating and diverse menu, Eggs in the City is the perfect spot to enjoy brunch after exploring Millcreek Canyon. The restaurant offers several versions of eggs Benedict and breakfast burritos, and a fried
chicken-n-waffle dish topped with a hot honey sauce. See the full menu at eggsinthecityslc.square.site.
Porcupine Pub & Grille, 3698 Fort Union Blvd., Cottonwood Heights
For nearly 30 years, Porcupine Pub & Grille has been a favorite place to eat for hikers visiting the Cottonwood Canyons. This local eatery has an extensive breakfast, brunch and lunch menu that includes huge portions of everything from pancakes to pizza. Visit porcupinepub.com for more info.
Smokin’ Bones BBQ, 364 S. 200 West, Bountiful
A morning spent on the Mueller Park Trail in Bountiful can leave you with a big appetite. Luckily, Smokin’ Bones BBQ will whet your whistle with some of the best slowsmoked meats in the county. Brisket burgers, meat platters or the BBQ Navajo taco are local favorites at this family-owned restaurant. Learn more at smokinbonesbbqut.com.
The Cotton Bottom, 2820 E. 6200 South, Holladay
Come hungry to this post-hiking staple, located near Big Cottonwood Canyon. With its dive-bar vibes and hearty servings, The Cotton Bottom is a local’s choice for garlic burgers, fresh-cut fries, Greek salads and loaded hot dogs. Go to thecottonbottom.com to see the menu.
Garage Grill, 12547 Herriman Autorow, Herriman and 1122 Draper Parkway, Draper
Whether you’re hiking Ghost Falls in Draper or exploring Butterfield Canyon in the Oquirrhs, Garage Grill’s two locations have you covered. Along with its
Welcome to our realm of casual dining splendor at Verona Cafe, where Lebanese traditions unfold with Chef Lina’s touch and flair.
We invite you to embark on a culinary journey, where each offering is a meticulously crafted tribute to the art of casual Lebanese hospitality. We have strived for perfection, and now we are honored to share with you the finest flavors that pay tribute to the renowned culinary traditions of Lebanon. Come on in and immerse yourself in our uniquely crafted and unforgettable casual dining experience. We promise that every bite is a celebration of gastronomic excellence.
famous Sunday brunch and delicious lunch specials, the auto-themed restaurant features a rotating display of fast cars and a full selection of Salt Flats beer and spirits. Check out thegaragegrill.com.
Weller’s Bistro, 197 N. Main Street, Layton
Hike the Adams Canyon Trail, then find this Layton favorite where homemade German cuisine and beer top the menu. Its bratwurst plate, warm German potato salad, goulash and schnitzel are delicious tributes to the restaurant’s heritage. It’s also the place to go for German pilsner, Hefeweizen and the German-imported beer of the month. Learn more at wellersbistro.com.
Lone Star Taqueria, 2265 Fort Union Blvd., Cottonwood Heights
A hike to Donut Falls isn’t complete until you’ve stopped by Lone Star Taqueria for fresh fish tacos. Open for lunch and dinner, the Mexican food hotspot uses homemade tortillas and chips, hosts a spicy salsa bar and offers fresh guacamole. Parking can be a bit tight, but the wait is worth it.
Annie’s Cafe, 74 W. 500 South, Bountiful
The Bonneville Shoreline Trail offers iconic views of Davis County and Annie’s Cafe provides meals that feel iconic in their own way. With a variety of crepes, from Philly cheese steak to peaches and cream, every member of your hiking party will find a favorite. It also provides gluten-free options. If burgers or sandwiches are more your thing, Annie’s has those, too. View the menu at anniescafeut.com. l
Finish off your hike to Lake Blanche with breakfast, brunch or lunch at local eateries along the Wasatch Range. (Adobe Stock)
Kristi and Quinn Kimball join their daughters and their son’s former teammates, the Wolfpack, to unveil the sign dedicating the Eddie Kimball Baseball Field. (Peri Kinder/City Journals)
Holladay ballfield dedicated to Eddie Kimball
The young ballplayer’s memory will live on for future generations.
By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com
On July 10, the Eddie Kimball Baseball Field, located at Holladay City Park (4580 S. 2300 East), was dedicated to the memory of a young Holladay resident killed in a car accident in September 2022. Eddie’s parents, Kristi and Quinn Kimball, joined with family and community members, city leaders and Eddie’s former teammates (the Wolfpack) to unveil the sign naming the ballpark.
“For those who have played baseball, you know the game is about more than hits and throws and catches and home runs. It teaches teamwork, builds friendships, fosters mentorship and encourages personal growth,” said Holladay Mayor Paul Fotheringham. “It’s also on the field that young players learn how to work together toward a common goal, and how to support one another through both
victory and disappointment, and how to keep showing up and giving their best effort.”
Judd and Becca Tolman, friends of the Kimball family, made a $25,000 donation to the city to ensure naming rights for the ballfield and to cover maintenance costs and upkeep. During the naming ceremony, Eddie’s parents, sisters and teammates spoke about his life and influence.
“To say that we are grateful to each one of you is a complete understatement,” said Quinn Kimball. “At times, the weight is so overwhelming. You feel like it’s going to crush you, and yet each one of you has shown up in different ways and at different times to support our family, our girls.
“We have felt your thoughts and your prayers, your acts of service towards us, but also the love that you’ve demonstrated towards each other, and I’ve witnessed how unbelievable human nature can be, that we, in the face of tragedy, can come together to celebrate. And I know if [Eddie] were here right now, he would say thank you.” l
Please help us collect the following items for refugee students at Cottonwood High:
• Mechanical pencils (as many as possible!)
• 3x5 lined cards
• 1” 3-ring binders (at least 300)
• Loose leaf paper, both college- and wide-ruled
• 1-subject spiral notebooks (at least 400)
• Composition notebooks (about 200)
• #2 pencils
• Colored pencils
• Big pink erasers
• Black and blue pens
• 3-prong pocket folders
• Plain pocket folder (without prongs)
• Glue sticks
Drop off donations
https://secure.qgiv.com/for/cottonwoodhighschoolfoodpantry/
Holladay rezone applicant hopes to improve traffic on the Highland Drive bypass road
The project includes restructuring the intersection.
By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Fourproperties along Highland Drive have been approved for a rezone. The land at 6037, 6049 and 6051 Highland Drive, and 1995 E. 6060 South will be changed from two-family and single-family, to Residential Multifamily, and the existing homes will be torn down.
The applicant, Kasey Kershaw, came before the Holladay City Council for the zone change that will affect 54,014 square feet. His proposal, which includes up to 20 housing units, was approved by the council with a 6-0 vote.
“I think that there’s an opportunity here for a higher-quality townhome project in Holladay,” Kershaw said. “I’m looking to do 18 units, because I believe that you can have some main-level living on these units, and you can then have some private yards, which most of the three-story townhome units do not have.”
Part of his application includes relocating the access to 6060 South and vacating the access on Highland Drive. He said this would create the opportunity to restructure that intersection,
an idea supported by many residents who addressed the council during a public hearing.
That change would need an investment from the city, but Kershaw’s plan would include a green, walkable, bike-friendly area that would retain the large trees on the west side of the property.
“I think there’s public and private sentiment for people to do something better there with the traffic,” he said. “If we can eliminate that one-lane loose run of road there, and then redo something with that small island, and make it more of a park…then I think it can create a more dramatic entrance to the city.”
Before voting on the proposal, Councilmember Erin Gray, who represents the district where the rezone will take place, asked Kershaw to address some concerns from neighbors, including increased traffic along Highland Drive, high-density buildings and light pollution.
Holladay Building Planner Carrie Marsh addressed those concerns and said the rezone would need to adhere to current height and lighting standards.
“They do have the same height allowances at 35 feet, so there’s not a difference in height between those two zones,” she said. “Reducing conflict points is a big part of increasing traffic
safety, so having fewer intersections where vehicles have to navigate entering traffic is an improvement.”
Holladay resident Dan Lawler’s remarks reflected the overall tone of the public comments for the rezone. He felt the project would be an overall benefit to the city and an improvement to the area.
“Obviously, the area needs something. The current owners are never going to do anything with those properties to fix them up,” Lawler
After a recent rezone, four properties will become a residential multifamily development, eliminating three driveway access points on the existing one-way Highland Drive bypass road. (Photo courtesy Holladay)
said. “I know some of my neighbors are upset about this change for a number of reasons, but I just think it’s going to be an improvement for the city of Holladay.”
Resident Paul Knott asked about a traffic study and voiced concerns about cars speeding down Highland Drive. He also wanted the city to approve funds to make the intersection safer, since the design includes traffic-calming elements.
“I believe [Kershaw] is going to accomplish what he says he’s going to do. I think he can beautify the area. I think he can do a number of great things for that area for us,” Knott said. “My fear is that the development will be done, and Holladay City won’t put enough funds into making the traffic correct, because that’s going to take an investment from Holladay City.” l
Après redefines mountain living with a collection of boutique luxury residences designed for the rhythm of modern life. Expansive rooftop amenities, wellnessfocused spaces, refined interiors, and immediate access to the Wasatch mountains creates a living experience unlike anything else on the east bench.
In 2025, The Central Wasatch Commission invited Holladay City to join other communities that border the Wasatch Mountains in this regional partnership. Whether you hike, bike, ski in these mountains or simply enjoy the view of Mt. Olympus from City Park, Holladay residents care deeply about the mountains and want to protect them for future generations to enjoy. Since that time, it has been my privilege to represent Holladay alongside Cottonwood Heights, Millcreek, Sandy City and others to address four issues critical to the future of the Wasatch: transportation, environmental sustainability, recreational stewardship and economic viability.
2026 Shop Holladay Bag Design Competition
The Holladay Business Advisory Board and Arts Council are excited to launch the inaugural #ShopHolladay Bag Design Competition.
We are seeking one (1) original artwork piece to become the official 2026 #ShopHolladay reusable shopping bag. The winning design will celebrate the unique character of Holladay while encouraging residents to support local businesses through the #ShopHolladay campaign.
The Commission was created to implement the vision of the Mountain Accord, bringing together governments and stakeholders to find collaborative solutions for the future of Central Wasatch. The Commission recognizes that these issues cannot be addressed by one community or group alone. They coordinate among the many stakeholders with interests in the mountains including property owners, ski resorts, environmental and recreation communities, elected leaders at the federal, state, and local levels, and the thousands of Utahn who enjoy these outdoor spaces. By working collaboratively across jurisdictional boundaries, we can better protect these mountains while ensuring they remain accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Holladay ‘s voice on the commission has helped secure resources for canyon projects, including graffiti abatement, trailhead bathroom maintenance, and trail repair of some of the most popular trails in the canyons. Over the past six years over $200,000 has been invested by the commission to improve recreational experiences for all who enjoy these mountains.
As part of my representation of Holladay residents, I sit on the Transportation Committee. My efforts do not support the proposed gondola. Instead, they focus on working to procure state funding for improved canyon transportation, expanding the ski bus priority access program into Holladay, and working with UDOT to make sure resident’s needs are represented as plans move forward for the future transportation hub at the gravel pit near the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon. These and other efforts are intended to reduce traffic congestion and improve access to the canyons, helping residents reach the slopes more efficiently while reducing neighborhood impacts from traffic congestion and overflow parking near the southern end of the city.
One of the most rewarding aspects of serving on this commission has been seeing the respect shown for differing perspectives and the willingness to work through competing interests. At a time when public discourse often feels increasingly divided, this spirit of collaboration has been especially encouraging. The Wasatch Mountains belong to all of us, and we all benefit from their beauty, recreational opportunities, wildlife habitat, and economic vitality.
By ensuring the City of Holladay has a seat at the table, we can help preserve these mountains for future generations.
—Emily Gray, Council Member District 5
The reusable bags will be distributed at various city events this fall and used as a lasting symbol of shopping local and supporting Holladay businesses.
The deadline to submit is August 26, 2026, by 11:59pm. There will be one (1) winning design with a $300 prize. The winning design will be announced in September 2026. Visit our city’s website, www.holladayut.gov for more information on eligibility and criteria. or contact Megan Atterman at matterman@holladayut.gov, if you have additional questions.
Back to School Means Back to Safety in School Zones!
With the start of the school year, it’s time for all of us to refocus on keeping our kids safe as they head to and from school. It’s been a few months since those familiar flashing yellow lights in school zones were active—but now they’re back.
Reminder: The speed limit in a school zone is 20 mph.
That limit is there for a reason—children can be unpredictable near roads, and the slower you are going, the more time you have to react.
Crossing Guards Are Heroes in Bright Vests
Please pay attention to our crossing guards. When they step into the
street with a stop sign, stop—don’t go around them. They’re making sure kids get across safely, and driving past them puts lives at risk. They only stop traffic when absolutely necessary, so please be patient.
School Buses: What Those Flashing Lights Mean
• Yellow flashing lights? You may pass—slowly, at 20 mph.
• Red flashing lights? Stop. That means children are getting on or off the bus, and they could cross in front of you at any moment.
Safety First, Enforcement Always
Officers will be actively enforcing school zone laws. Our goal is to keep kids safe so they can focus on learning, not traffic dangers.
Let’s all do our part to keep Holladay a safe, welcoming place for families. Whether you’re commuting, walking, biking, or busing—it takes all of us to make school days safe ones.
CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS:
Paul Fotheringham, Mayor pfotheringham@holladayut.gov 801-424-3058
David Sundwall, District 1 dsundwall@holladayut.gov 801-633-5753
Matt Durham, District 2 mdurham@holladayut.gov 801-999-0781
Natalie Bradley, District 3 nbradley@holladayut.gov 801-243-1139
Drew Quinn, District 4 dquinn@holladayut.gov 801-860-6130
Emily Gray, District 5 egray@holladayut.gov 801-755-3477
Gina Chamness, City Manager gchamness@holladayut.gov
2026-27 Budget Message
On June 11, the Holladay City Council adopted the City’s budget for the fiscal year which began on July 1. During May and June each year, the City Manager and City Council review projected revenues and anticipated service needs for the upcoming fiscal year. While the City has a number of funds, including a stormwater enterprise fund with revenue generated exclusively from fees, the General Fund is the primary fund that pays for City operations.
This year, Holladay expects to receive approximately $25 million in revenue into the General Fund from a variety of sources.
Property tax is the City’s largest single source of revenue and will fund approximately 35% of General Fund operations. While property taxes for individual property owners may change from year to year depending on a variety of factors, state law is designed to keep the funding that Holladay receives at roughly the same level over time.
Any increase in the property tax rate requires a Truth in Taxation notice and public hearing. For FY 2026-27, a property tax increase was not needed.
The City’s share of sales tax generated by brick-and-mortar businesses, as well as merchandise delivered within the City funds 31% of City operations. Sales tax funding, as well as revenue from licenses and permits, varies as overall economic conditions in the area and in the state change.
Nearly half of the City’s General Fund budget is spent on critical public safety services. Holladay currently contracts with the Unified Police District (UPD) and United Fire Authority (UFA) to provide these services for Holladay residents. While the FY2027 UPD budget reflects a 2.3% increase over the adopted FY2026 budget, the FY2026 budget included a one-time $100,000 use of fund balance. Excluding that one-time funding, the effective increase for FY2027 is approximately 3.6%.
Bonding Activities
In June 2022, the City issued a bond to fund road and stormwater improvements. By March 2026, approximately $19.9 million of the bond proceeds had been invested in upgrades to local neighborhood streets, key connector roads, and stormwater infrastructure. With these bond funded projects now complete the City plans for continued maintenance of critical road and stormwater projects.
In December 2025, the City issued $10 million in lease revenue bonds. These
by Christian Larsen, Finance Directory
bond proceeds, along with a capital investment from the City, will fund the renovation and seismic retrofit of City Hall as well as the adaptive reuse of the Spring Lane site as a public park. The general fund must transfer annual lease payments to the LBA (a legally separate entity chaired by the City Council) for the annual debt service associated with the 2025 LBA bond. In FY2027, the total debt service transfer to the LBA is $492,613.
Property Tax Changes
In late July, property owners in Holladay begin receiving Notices of Property Tax Valuation and Tax Changes from Salt Lake County. Those notices usually generate some questions we’ll try to address. The notice highlights two potential types of changes that can affect the property tax residents pay – how your individual property is valued, and the tax rate that you pay to various entities, including the Granite School District, Salt Lake County, and the City of Holladay.
State law prohibits local governments from receiving a windfall from an increase in property values, so as property values increase, the “certified rate” or the rate that a tax entity can impose without a hearing, decreases, guaranteeing each entity only the same amount of revenue from property tax received the previous year, plus an allowance for any new growth that may have occurred in the community. State law also guarantees that the amount local taxing entities receive remains the same when property values are falling by increasing the rate to generate the same revenue as the year before. In total, average property valuations in Holladay increased by 5.5% this year.
How much your property tax changes depends on a number of factors, including the valuation of your individual property as compared to that overall percentage for our area, and whether any other taxing entities that receive property tax are increasing their tax rates this year. Generally, any change in the tax rate beyond the certified rate requires a Truth in Taxation hearing. The dates of these hearings are shown on the notices received from the County, and are staggered so that a property owner can attend each hearing that affects their property.
If you have questions about the City of Holladay’s budget, property tax, etc. please visit the City website or contact Christian Larsen, Holladay’s Finance Director, at (801) 272-9450 or clarsen@holladayut.gov.
In Memoriam: Mayor Dennis Webb
By Lynn Pace, former City Council Member
Last month the City of Holladay lost a true champion, former Mayor Dennis Webb, who passed away on June 21, 2026. Dennis served as the Mayor of Holladay for 10 years. I had the honor of serving on the with him on the City Council during that time. Dennis and I were first elected in 2004, immediately after citizens had voted to change the form of government. Dennis was my mentor, my confidante and my friend. He did not have political ambitions. But after four years of contention and conflict at City Hall, his neighbors asked him to run for Mayor, hoping that he could be the white knight we needed to bring peace and progress to the City. Dennis was all that and more. Perpetually cheerful, optimistic and patient, Dennis was a peacemaker, and a consensus builder. He was just the right person our community needed, and at just the right time, to heal old wounds and plan for our future. On the night of his inauguration, he told us that when he was a boy he loved to wear a white cowboy hat, because the good guys
It is time for Movies in the Park in Holladay City. Movies will include a FREE Treat and Water!
Holladay City and Happy Healthy Holladay will also be showing Screenagers on September 5th and that showing will include The Chat Couch, Swag, and FREE treats.
always wear white hats. Tonight, he said, regardless of our past disagreements, everyone is wearing a white hat. Everyone here is trying to build a better Holladay. Dennis was also a visionary and was always looking ahead. He was not content with what Holladay was, and worked to toward what he believed it could become. So much of what we enjoy today in Holladay is the result of his vision - City Hall, the City park, the Holladay Village Center and plaza, the tree lined streets, hanging flower baskets, Harmons grocery store, the City fire station with its tall tower, and Knudsen Park. For Dennis, good enough was never good enough for Holladay. He labored unceasingly to create a community that was off the beaten path, a place that was special, and a place that everyone would be proud to call home. Mayor Webb changed Holladay in a wonderful way. So here’s to Mayor Dennis Webb, the man with the white hat. Holladay is a better place because he was here. On behalf of a grateful community, I express our collective thanks to him, and to his family, for the gifts they have given to all of us. God bless you.
LIBRARY HAPPENINGS
Summer Wellness - Ceramic Painting
Thursday, August 13 - 6 to 7pm
Join us for a unique experience this summer! Better yourself with a new method of creative expression.
The Emperor’s New Clothes - Puppet Show by The Puppet Players
Monday, August 31st - 10:15am
A trickster tailer finds a way to teach the emperor that clothes are never as important as the folks around us. These puppets are made from household objects. Lots of fun!
Impressionistic contemporary painter captures memories on canvas
Holladay Artist of the Month Jen Gilson is known for her smooth, expressive brushwork and Impressionistic techniques consistently capturing attention and attracting collectors.
By Collette Hayes c.hayes@mycityjournals.com
Holladay artist Jen Gilson creates contemporary Impressionistic works that capture fleeting light and spontaneity through expressive brushwork and a strong emotional tone. Her art highlights “happy places” and evokes nostalgia with vibrant, light-filled scenes of nature, ski slopes and coastal settings.
The Holladay Arts Council named Gilson as Holladay Artist of the Month, recognizing her talent and skill as an oil painter. Her soft, impressionistic brushwork invites viewers into a world where mood and emotion eclipse the need for precision in detail. Gilson draws her artistic inspiration and influence from Salt Lake City artist Claire Tollstrup and American Impressionist painter and printmaker Mary Cassatt, whose Impressionistic techniques and tender portrayals of mothers and children resonate in Gilson’s own work.
Gilson leans toward oil as her medium of choice, drawn to its versatility. Each brush stroke is infused with realistic color and is inspired by life’s memorable moments: the laughter of her twin girls as they blow out birthday candles, a father’s strong hands clasping his children’s as they shriek with joy in the icy surf at the beach, or the hushed exhilaration of etching the last ski tracks beneath the long shadows of dusk.
“With oil you can mix colors so freely,” she said. “The oil stays wet on your palette, so coming back to add final highlights of maybe a touch of glistening sun on the chilly surf of an ocean wave or the final rays of light on a mountainside is easily done.”
After completing a degree in secondary art education and graphic design from Utah State University, Gilson landed a position in the graphic design field and thrived there until she welcomed her first two children, after which nap time became her time to immerse herself in art. Twin girls soon followed, which brought a loving, happy chaos to her young family. She turned her art toward commissioned paintings and eventually toward showing her artwork in art galleries such as Four Lemons and the Fox Market.
“I paint about 50 to 60 paintings every year,” Gilson said. “I usually bring around 25 to the 1, 3, 5 art show at the Cottonwood
Country Club, and I sell several to collectors there. Creating, enjoying and viewing art all have so many benefits. I feel so privileged to do what I love and to have people who want to collect my art.”
Each year, Gilson participates in the Plein Air Holladay art event, where artists complete a plein-air painting within the city limits in one week. She has painted at locations such as Cottonwood Lane, depicting expansive fields with barns and grazing cows, each wearing its own earring name tag. She tries to capture on canvas the emotions that make Holladay a beautiful and welcoming place.
How does Gilson define success as an artist? “My greatest hope is that my artwork stirs emotion in those who see it. The real reward comes when someone is so moved that they want a piece of my art in their home, so they can relive that feeling each day. There is something truly powerful about being the conduit through which people connect with their emotions,” she said.
The community is invited to an artist pop-up event Friday, Aug. 7, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Four Lemons – Art within Reach. A collection of Gilson’s paintings will be displayed and available for purchase. Light refreshments will be served. Four Lemons is at 4850 S. Highland Drive. l
Contemporary Impressionistic painter Jen Gilson leans toward oil as her medium of choice, drawn to its versatility. (Photo courtesy Jen Gilson)
Businesses that support a mental health culture more likely to attract and retain top talent
The Holladay Business Advisory Board and Happy Healthy Holladay Coalition welcomed business owners to Kiln Holladay for their annual Mental Health Symposium.
By Collette Hayes c.hayes@mycityjournals.com
MentalHealth Awareness month in May offered a chance for business leaders to prioritize the health and wellness of their most valuable asset: their employees. To help organizations review their practices, policies and resources supporting mental wellness, the Holladay Business Advisory Board and the Happy Healthy Holladay Coalition hosted their annual Mental Health Symposium at Kiln Holladay. This free halfday event featured local experts who shared insights on workplace mental health, practical coping strategies and available community resources.
According to Derek B. Miller, President and CEO of the Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce, Utah had one of the highest rates of mental illness in 2023, about 30% of adults, and the highest percentage of serious mental illness as supported by recent available data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Miller further states, “Beyond mental illness, challenges and stressors to people’s mental health are impacting individuals at all levels of Utah businesses. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services shared that 76% of U.S. workers reported at least one symptom of a mental health condition, and 84% reported that their workplace conditions contributed to at least one mental health challenge.”
Your
The most recent available data from the Utah Department of Health and Human Services 2022-24 suggests that suicide rates are decreasing in the city of Holladay which is encouraging and reflects the ongoing efforts of Holladay’s public health coalition and community partners to support suicide prevention and mental health awareness.
grateful to be involved in this symposium because creating spaces for education, conversation and empathy helps reduce stigma and encourages healthier, more supportive environments for everyone.”
Finding and keeping the right people is essential to organizational success, making it imperative that leaders prioritize individuals’ health and wellness at all levels. One leader making a difference is Holladay Development and Housing Manager Ann Francis Garcia, who plays a key role in the Holladay Business Advisory Board’s success. Through her efforts and the Business Advisory Board’s leadership, a forum is provided for Holladay’s local businesses and community partners to enhance communication and provide opportunities for collaboration.
“Your well-being matters,” Garcia emphasizes. “The resources at the Mental Health Symposium were meant to remind everyone that support and care are available. Our goal was to show our community the importance of this message.”
The Mental Health Symposium offered mental health professionals the opportunity to share insights on managing workplace well-being. Teneal Taylor, a Human Resource expert, executive coach and leadership trainer, contributed to the wellness discussion.
Managing mental health concerns in the workplace was the focus of Taylor’s presentation as she introduced the “Goldilocks” principle. This concept suggests the best outcomes are achieved by finding a balanced, moderate approach between two extremes. She emphasized the importance of supporting employees’ well-being while maintaining boundaries and consistency.
well-being matters. The resources at the Mental Health Symposium were meant to remind everyone that support and care are available. Our goal was to show our community the importance of this message.
Ann Francis Garcia
“Mental health in the workplace directly impacts well-being, productivity and overall quality of life,” Holladay Public Health Coordinator Megan Bartley said. “I was
Caroline Patterson, a counselor with Intermountain Employee Assistance Program (EAP), led a discussion on practical strategies for managing challenging interactions using the “Reaction vs. Response” principle. The underlying premise is that reacting can escalate conflict, while responding helps regulate emotions and encourages understanding. Patterson explains, “Our automatic first reactions to something difficult can be influenced by upbringing, current mental state and our relationship with the person or habit. By contrast, a response
is intentional. Usually, conversations end better when we respond instead of react.”
Dr. Sheetal Shah holds board certifications in Lifestyle Medicine, Obesity Medicine and Nephrology. Alongside her training in Internal Medicine, she combines clinical expertise with advanced research to deliver individualized, evidence-based care. She presented the concept of the stress loop, noting that unmanaged stress keeps the body in a prolonged state of high alert. This persistent cycle can deplete energy, negatively affect mood and impair overall health. She recommends interrupting this loop with the 3M reset, a set of three science-based strategies to regulate stress and enhance mental health in the workplace: move the body, modify the brain through breathwork and manage nutritional intake.
“If you change the signal, you change the cycle,” Shah explains. “Try not to sit for more than 30 minutes at a time. Getting up and moving around can do wonders for your mental health. When you sit too long, your stress hormones rise, your energy drops and your well-being declines. Take a moment to check in with your breath. Slowing it down and keeping it steady tells your body you’re safe. Manage your fuel. Steady sources of protein, fiber and healthy fats will help keep your energy up and support your brain. Hydrate and eat well to help your focus and mood. You can’t get rid of every stressor, but you can change the signals your body sends, and that can make managing stress a lot easier.”
For companies seeking to attract and retain talent, a culture that supports mental health can be a strong draw. The American Psychological Association (APA) reports that 81% of workers seek employers who prioritize mental health.
Wellness businesses in Holladay providing resource information at the symposium:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia is offered by Amanda Kutz, Ph.D., a licensed clinical psychologist. CBT-I is a short-term, structured therapy that helps people with chronic insomnia by changing the thoughts, behaviors and habits that make sleep difficult. www.amandakutzphd.com
Sole Balance, led by Melissa Davis, offers foot zoning, iconic foot baths, sound baths and Gemi Tools to help balance your body and renew your soul. SoleBalanceFootZoneTherapy.com
Root and Restore Somatics is led by Bonnijane Monson, DPT, a doctor of physical therapy. Services include pelvic health physical therapy, hypnotherapy, body-mind integration, somatic therapy and coaching, nervous system regulation, and support for pregnancy and postpartum recovery. www. rootandrestoretherapy.com
Hidden Gem Healing offers professional care with equine partners. The team
Dr. Sheetal Shah demonstrates a grip hand exerciser. She recommends interrupting the “stress loop” using the 3M reset, a set of three science-based strategies to regulate stress and enhance mental health in the workplace: move the body, modify the brain through breath work and manage nutritional intake. (Collette Hayes/City Journals)
includes Sara Jones, a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, Abbey Lind, a certified family nurse practitioner, and Elena Bradway, practice manager. They provide integrative psychiatry, equine-assisted psychotherapy and functional medicine primary care. www.hiddengemhealingutah.com
The Sound Mind & Body Studio, run by Brian and Vannessa Block, offers noninvasive, relaxing and restorative services. Many clients say the sessions feel like a mix of meditation, recovery therapy and a nervous system reset. www.thesoundmindandbodystudio.com
Arches Healing and Mental Health Services is dedicated to providing personalized, holistic healing for neurodivergent individuals, LGBTQ+ people, BIPOC communities and other marginalized groups. www.archeshealing.com
Dr. Sheetal Shah, offers lifestyle medicine using an integrative, evidence-based approach to optimize health, prevent disease and promote lifelong well-being. www. drsheetalshah.com
Golden Healers, led by CEO Mike Carlson, provides highly trained service dogs for individuals and offers therapy dog support in various community settings. www. goldenhealers.org l
Salt Lake City Walk
The goal of daycare should not simply be exhaustion, it should be balanced socialization, education, exercise, safety, and fun.
What Should You Look for in a Dog Daycare? EDUCATION MATTERS
When choosing a dog daycare, it’s important to look for more than just a place for your pup to play. You want an environment that prioritizes education, safety, socialization, and exercise.
When many people think about dog daycare, they picture dogs simply running around and playing all day. While play is certainly part of the experience, quality daycare environments should also provide opportunities for dogs to learn healthy social skills and positive play behaviors
Just like people, dogs communicate through body language. In a structured daycare environment, dogs should be encouraged when displaying polite, healthy play behaviors and gently redirected when interactions become too rough, overstimulating, or impolite. Over time, this helps dogs build better social confidence and safer play habits with other dogs.
A good daycare environment also allows dogs the freedom to simply “be dogs.” Barking, playing, wrestling appropriately, exploring, and interacting with their BFFFs (Best Furry Friends Forever) are all natural and important parts of healthy socialization. Dogs thrive when they have safe opportunities to interact, burn energy, and engage their minds in positive ways.
In addition to social play, many daycare environments incorporate enrichment activities throughout the day. These may include
scent-based activities, simple problem-solving exercises, bubbles, splash pads, agility items, or other experiences designed to provide mental stimulation and variety. However, it is equally important that dogs are not constantly overstimulated. Dogs also benefit from time to use their own imagination, create their own games, and naturally interact with their environment and friends.
IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A STRUCTURED ENVIRONMENT where your dog can socialize, learn positive play behaviors, and make some BFFFs of their own, schedule a Meet & Greet today to see if daycare may be a good fit for your pup. Learn more at: www.dogtopia.com/location-finder
Larkin Mortuary’s dedication to the Utah community is deeply rooted in its history and family values. For over 140 years, spanning seven generations, the Larkin family has proudly served Utah families in their time of need. This commitment extends beyond providing funeral services; Larkin Mortuary actively engages with the community by hosting events and giving back through various service initiatives such as the annual Memorial
The secret ingredient behind Orson Gygi’s success
The local company is more than just a kitchen store.
By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com
If
Orson Gygi walked into his kitchen supply store today, he would be shocked by its size and scope. Gygi started his business in 1945, providing kitchen equipment to local restaurant owners. His kids went door to door, selling knives, squeeze bottles and other products to make cooking a little easier.
Located at 3500 S. 300 West, the Orson Gygi Company has grown into a trusted culinary resource. Although its store now spans 38,000 square feet and offers more than 25,000 products, including the 800,000 pounds of chocolate it sells annually to local and national customers, it has remained a community-based, family-owned business.
Heather Smith is Gygi’s great-granddaughter and vice president of the company. Her father, Brad McDonald, is Gygi’s grandson who operates under the loose title of “president and janitorial services.”
“We’ve been very fortunate to be such a name in the community. I think people think we’re a lot bigger than we are. But we’re a family-owned small business that loves the community,” Smith said. “This is our heart and soul. I hope that when people shop and walk in the doors, that’s what they feel. They feel they’ve got a friend in the kitchen and they have someone they can turn to.”
Orson Gygi Company celebrated its 80th anniversary in 2025, but it almost didn’t make it past the 90s. In 1998, a devastating fire destroyed the building, resulting in a $2.5-million loss. Gygi had passed away more than a decade before the
disaster and his children didn’t want to rebuild and start over. That’s when McDonald stepped up. He was determined to reopen the company to reaffirm its dedication to the customers and employees.
“I had just gotten involved in the business less than six months before [the fire],” McDonald said. “Of course, I’d grown up in this environment, and I had seen all the loyal customers that considered us an institution. I kind of threw a fit.”
After a family discussion, it was decided that McDonald would take over. Even though he had worked as a general contractor for 20 years, he was willing to change careers and lead the business because he had witnessed the dedication his family had put into it, along with the customers’ devotion.
After the fire, Orson Gygi Company shifted its focus. While still providing equipment for restaurants and professional chefs, it also began catering to residential cooks and bakers looking for quality products.
At the time, the Food Network was blowing up and people realized that cooking didn’t have to be a chore but could be something creative and fun. The store became a one-stop shop for specialty cookware, baking pans, cookie sheets, utensils, party supplies, pantry staples, grills, griddles, mixers and hundreds of other products.
Hiring knowledgeable employees has helped the business set itself apart from its competitors. The 30 staff members are experts in the food industry, understanding all elements of baking, cooking, candy making and grilling.
The company, now in its fourth generation of ownership, continues to evolve, offering demonstrations and hands-on cooking classes, hosting a blog with recipes and tips and finding new ways to introduce people to the love of baking. For more information, visit Gygi.com.
“The best part about this is we get all walks of life that come through here,” Smith said. “Whether it’s a sweet lady who’s been making chocolates for 60 years or someone who is 15 years old and wants to make suckers. We have professionals, we have home chefs, we have beginners, we have pros. It’s fun to see them walk the aisles together because there’s a place for everyone.” l
What do you want to know about the
Great Salt Lake?
Newsrooms across Utah, including the City Journals, will use the survey results to bolster their reporting about water in
Utah
Utah leaders have set a goal to raise the Great Salt Lake by seven feet to 4,198 feet above sea level by the time Utah hosts the 2034 Winter Olympics.
It will be a monumental task to save and dedicate the additional 800,000 acre feet of water needed
each year — that’s twice the amount of water used in homes and on yards in the Great Salt Lake Basin — especially with this year’s record-low snowpack and extreme drought.
Utah newsrooms who have banded together to cover the lake as the Great Salt Lake Collaborative will
cover all of the developments by politicians, philanthropists, residents, businesses, farmers and industries.
Take this quick eight-question survey so we can report on what matters to you. We want to know what questions you have, your hopes and fears and how the lake affects you.
Questions? Contact me at info@ greatsaltlakenews.org.
This article is published through the Great Salt Lake Collaborative with funding from Love the Lake, an initiative of the nonprofit Great Salt Lake Alliance. Editorial decisions are made independently by the Collaborative and partner newsrooms.
Story by Heather May | Great Salt Lake Collaborative
Photos courtesy The Salt Lake Tribune
Orson Gygi’s popular pizza classes teach dough basics and flavor pairing techniques, using the Gozney outdoor pizza oven. (Photo courtesy of Orson Gygi)
Shakespeare as Shakespeare once did it
Barely rehearsed and highly improvised, the Grassroot Shakespeare Company performed “Much Ado About Nothing” at Holladay City Park in June.
By Collette Hayes c.hayes@mycityjournals.com
The Grassroot Shakespeare Company presented a captivating and rollicking outdoor evening performance of “Much Ado About Nothing” at Holladay City Park. Sponsored by the Holladay Arts Council, the 60-minute show, written primarily in prose rather than verse, was presented without a director, costume designer or fourth wall— embracing unfiltered, scripted chaos. It was a performance that, perhaps, the bard himself didn’t intend, but it did reflect the spontaneity and unpredictability that he was subjected to quite regularly.
The cast opened the evening of romantic comedy, love, mischief and redemption with a perfectly polished preshow. They kicked off with Weezer’s “Opening Night,” a song that interpolates the allegro movement from Vivaldi’s “The Spring.” The lyrics, “Shakespeare makes me happy, so happy, and I’m happy to be with you,” set a mood-lifting tone for a night of amusing repartee, mistaken identity, jealousy, secret plots and a bit of intrigue all mingled under the stars. The cast reassured a captive audience that the popular Elizabethan play had all the scandal of “Real Housewives,” all the mischief of “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” and all the fine investigative police work of “Law and Order.”
“Much Ado About Nothing” is one of Shakespeare’s most popular works. It follows the romantic misadventures of two couples in the Sicilian town of Messina — the witty “merry war” between Beatrice and Benedick, who are tricked by their friends into admitting their true feelings for each other, and Claudio and Hero, a young couple, who almost break up because of lies and rumors. With clever wordplay, mistaken identities and plenty of
Quirky, playful and unexpected costumes— such as swimsuits and a life preserver — made the play visually engaging and relatable.
(Collette Hayes/ City Journals)
comedic misunderstandings, the play explores themes of love, honor, friendship, and relationships, ultimately celebrating the redemptive power of truth and reconciliation.
The actors created a sense of intimacy during the performance by addressing the audience directly. This approach allows audience members to feel engaged rather than passive onlookers as secrets are revealed and schemes unfold on stage. Notably, characters such as Benedick and Beatrice draw the audience into a web of misunderstandings and overheard conversations. Most importantly, when an actor uses this technique, the person in the audience who is asked a question must—and will—answer.
The Elizabethan theatre company in Shakespeare’s day typically consisted of nine to 18 actors. Similarly, the park performance of “Much Ado About Nothing” featured nine actors, even though there were more than 20 roles to fill. This practice reflects the traditions of Shakespeare’s era in other ways as well. For instance, at the time, women were not allowed by law to act on stage, so all female characters
The cast opened the evening with a perfectly polished preshow. They kicked off with Weezer’s “Opening Night.”
The lyrics, “Shakespeare makes me happy, so happy, and I’m happy to be with you,” set a mood-lifting tone.
(Collette Hayes/City Journals
were portrayed by men—often young boys.
“We’ve cast our show regardless of gender,” said cast member Alyx Vaughn. “Tonight, you’ll see men playing women, women playing men, and just about any other combination you can think of.”
Back in Elizabethan times, actors made their own costumes, usually by repurposing castoffs from wealthy patrons. For the city park performance, the cast dreamed up and crafted every costume and simple prop themselves. Each creation uniquely reflected the actors’ interpretation of their character. Quirky, playful and unexpected costumes— such as swimsuits and a life preserver—made the play visually engaging and relatable.
Shakespeare’s plays were performed with barely rehearsed, highly improvised scripts, resulting in a somewhat chaotic spontaneity. Friday’s cast delivered a polished performance demonstrating the actors’ camaraderie and anticipation of each other’s line deliveries, which enhanced the humor in real time.
“Shakespeare’s actors took to the stage with little or no rehearsal time, sometimes
The park performance of “Much Ado About Nothing” featured only nine actors, even though there were more than 20 roles to fill.
(Collette Hayes/City Journals)
(Collette Hayes/ City Journals)
only meeting the morning of the performance to go over the dances and fights,” Vaughn said. “For the performance tonight, we had about 11 days of rehearsal.”
While the cast rehearsed more than their Elizabethan counterparts, other elements of spontaneity remained central to the production, especially the music. Tour and musician manager Gary Argyle joined the company in 2014. Argyle, a guitarist, and the company’s marketing director Beth Moulton improvised music for the evening play by reacting to the show with sound effects. Their musical improvisation set the scene, emphasized the characters’ drama, and created the overall tone, adding to the ensuing unscripted chaos.
The Grassroots Shakespeare Company is a nonprofit theatre company and has been holding performances throughout Utah for 17 years. The company will be performing at outdoor venues through the summer months. Check out their website for more information, audience guidelines, the summer performance schedule, and audition details: grassroots-shakespeare.com. l
“The part of the production that I enjoyed most was the camaraderie that was built among the cast,” director Emily Tatum said. “Not only are they all extremely talented, but they are also so kind and creative. Everyone was quick to listen to each other and bounce creative ideas off one another, bringing the show to life. I truly looked forward to going to rehearsal every day.” (Photo courtesy of Emily Tatum)
After 50 years, ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ still balances tradition in a changing world
The outdoor stage performance at Holladay City Park, showcased some of Utah’s finest musical and acting talent.
By Collette Hayes c.hayes@mycityjournals.com
“A fiddler on the roof. Sounds crazy, no? But here, in our little village of Anatevka, you might say every one of us is a fiddler on the roof. And how do we keep our balance? That I can tell you in one word: tradition!”
Thanks to Holladay Arts and Culture, in partnership with the Umbrella Theater Company, that opening monologue was heard each night as “Fiddler on the Roof” was presented at Holladay City Park. The play ran for five nights. Bringing together local Utah talent, the cast of 28 ranged in age from 8 to 66 and included performers with varying levels of acting experience. Leading the production was director Emily Tatum, a recent graduate of the University of Utah’s Actor Training Program.
“I’ve always loved theatre, and most of my training is in acting,” Tatum said. “I was given opportunities in college that really made me fall in love with directing and want to pursue it as well. I have always loved this play, so when I saw the job opportunity, I was quick to apply. I think the combination of nostalgia and relevant themes make this show an excellent choice.”
The idea of a fiddler on the roof was inspired by Marc Chagall’s artwork, particularly his surreal 1913 painting “The Fiddler” and his 1923 mural “Green Violinist.” In both, a violinist stands on a rooftop, trying to keep his balance. The show emphasized this image on its program to highlight its main theme: how the Jewish community members try to survive while holding on to traditions in a rapidly changing world.
Layne Willden, a well-known actor in Utah’s community theater, plays Tevye a Jewish milkman living in the fictional Russian village of Anatevka in 1905. His life changes when his daughters challenge tradition as they search for love. Tzeitel, his eldest, wants to marry Motel, a poor tailor, rather than the rich butcher Lazar Wolf. Tevye finally agrees and lets her marry for love. Hodel, his second daughter, falls in love with the revolutionary Perchik and follows him to Siberia. Chava, the third daughter, chooses someone outside her faith and is disowned. As a result Tevye struggles to balance tradition with the changes happening around him.
Eventually, the Jewish families are forced to leave their homes — an event steeped in historical fact. The fiddler, always hopeful, packs up and follows them, showing the ongoing struggle to keep tradition while facing change amid adversity.
The play’s tragic ending reflects both a difficult chapter in history and resonates with audiences today, highlighting the importance of community and shared cultural experiences. As Holladay Arts
and Culture Manager Megan Attermann remarked, “Programs like this are an investment in the social fabric of our community. “This production of ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ showed the value of that investment. The relationships built among the cast and crew and shared with audiences throughout the run fostered connection, belonging and a stronger community for everyone.”
At each performance, over 400 audience members scattered camp chairs and blankets across the lawn at Holladay City Park. As anticipation settled, the “Fiddler,” played by cast member Rachel Turnbow Harris, opened the show with a slow, mournful violin solo immediately establishing the play’s central theme. This led into Tevye’s powerful, booming bass-baritone voice thundering into the night air with the iconic song “Tradition.” He slowly danced across the stage with bent knees, high arm gestures and a domineering presence, setting the tone for the performance.
Golde, who was played by Loria Call, returned to the stage with this production. Call, known for her professional acting career and her role in the film “Napoleon Dynamite,” brought real depth to the performance. “I feel so very lucky that Loria chose to audition for this production. I can’t imagine this show without her,” Tatum said.
The portrayal of Golde was especially moving during one of the play’s most memorable scenes. Golde and Tevye’s marriage was arranged by a traditional matchmaker, with no thought of love. After Tevye sees his
daughters marry for love, he hesitantly asks Golde, “Do you love me?” Golde is taken aback and responds, “Do I what?” When he asks again, she brushes it off matter-of-factly, saying he must be upset, tired or maybe he has indigestion. Still, as Tevye keeps pressing for an answer to the question, Golde finally softens and says, “I suppose I do.”
Reflecting on the experience, Harris said, “The most enjoyable part of every production, including this one, is meeting others who care about music and performing, and being part of something bigger that you create together. You can’t find that anywhere else. Live theatre is pure energy. Coming together as a group to create is unforgettable.”
Tatum shared, “The part of the production that I enjoyed most was the camaraderie that was built among the cast. Not only are they all extremely talented, but they are also so kind and creative. Everyone was quick to listen to each other and bounce creative ideas off one another, bringing the show to life. I truly looked forward to going to rehearsal every day.”
Reflecting on the cast’s collaboration, Tatum emphasized how much creative energy contributed to the production’s success. She then added, “Overall, this has been a really memorable and rewarding experience. Also, I am so thankful to the city of Holladay for investing in the arts community. I am very touched by their belief in all of the young people, including myself, whom they trusted with leadership roles. A huge thank you to everyone who came to see the show.” l
Tevye’s life changes when his daughters challenge tradition as they search for love. Tzeitel, his eldest, wants to marry Motel, a poor tailor, rather than the rich butcher Lazar Wolf. (Photo courtesy of Emily Tatum)
The Granite School District Board of Education has Adopted a Proposed 2026/2027 Budget
Granite did NOT raise taxes last fiscal year The proposed rate increase was not approved by the State If you saw an increase in your taxes related to Granite, it was likely due to changes in your property’s value
The proposed budget for next fiscal year includes a tax increase intended to address decreases in state revenue and new unfunded mandates
In the last two years, Granite has cut over $7 million in operational costs and shifted more funding towards the classroom and school level
The intent of this tax increase is to reduce class sizes and maintain comparable levels of service due to funding cuts at the legislative level
Legislative Cuts: $12,100,903
Granite’s 2026–27 budget priorities include:
Reduced K-2 class sizes
Funding to address new state requirements for special education, preschool, and English language learners.
Instructional support for teachers
graniteschools.org/budgetdevelopment/ customerservice@graniteschools.org
Granite Board of Education:
Nicole McDermott, Kris Nguyen, Julie Jackson, Clarke Nelson, Connie Burgess, Kim Chandler, Karyn Winder
The Magic Starts When the Kids Stay Home
Every couple should take a child-free Disneyland vacation. Without kids, you can focus on what really matters: blaming each other for choosing the wrong line. You can also notice how many adults willingly wear matching T-shirts and mouse ears.
When my husband and I celebrated his birthday at the Happiest Place on Earth, it was chaotic, exhilarating and crowded, but at least it was expensive.
Our plan was to hit both Disney parks in one day. We had a detailed itinerary, a portable phone charger and high expectations that lasted until we got to the parking lot. It was our first hour-long wait, but not the last. Luckily, we didn’t have kids whining in the backseat. That was my department.
Once we got into Disneyland, we used the park’s app to jump into the first line with a less-than-45-minute wait. It was the Jungle Cruise, where the jokes are as old as Disney itself.
Tom talks to anyone, so as we snaked through the line, he’d connect with people based on their ballcaps.
“Hey, you’re a Dodgers fan!” he’d say.
“Yep.”
“That’s great. We’re Giants fans, but we love Ohtani.”
The Dodgers fan would nod and we’d wind through the maze until we met up with
Peri Kinder Life and Laughter
him again for another short, baseball-themed conversation. By the fifth pass, Tom had exhausted every baseball topic he knew and the stranger pretended he didn’t see us.
Avoiding eye contact is my starting point, so it didn’t affect me, but my extroverted husband spent an inordinate amount of time trying to understand why his new best friend was ghosting him.
“We met him 40 minutes ago,” I reminded him.
“Was it something I said?” he asked.
“Probably.”
Being without kids, we didn’t have to set foot in Fantasyland, which is basically a 10-acre stroller park filled with exhausted parents and overstimulated toddlers begging for $45 Cinderella bubble wands.
Instead, we got drenched on Tiana’s Bayou (which will always be Splash Mountain) and endured a 75-minute wait at Guardians of the Galaxy, along with 15,000 high school graduates. Apparently,
teenagers like to celebrate graduation by standing in long lines.
After paying an extra $30 for the Star Wars Experience, we headed to the Incredicoaster at California Adventure. Looking around, we realized we were the oldest people in line, right before we were shot into the sky and bounced around like a tennis shoe in the washing machine.
We couldn’t ride Space Mountain, which closed every 20 minutes (I’m assuming to hose down the seats), but we survived other high-speed rides without severe whiplash or needing EMS assistance.
We agreed there were too many kids roaming the area. Maybe Disneyland could create an adults-only park featuring Mickey’s Pub Crawl where you can pay $20 to get into a bar fight with Pluto.
Donald Duck’s Anger Management Arena or Minnie’s Marriage Counseling could hit the spot after spending the day with your significant other arguing about whether the Disneyland Railroad is worth the time. It’s not.
Disneyland is built on storytelling, which I love, but after hours in line, no one cares why the mansion is haunted, no one cares who stole the treasure. No one is paying attention to the elaborate backstory. We just want to ride, scream for 90 seconds and move on.
I suggest you never take your kids to Disneyland. For one thing, it’s cheaper. For another, you don’t have to negotiate with the child who wants a smoked turkey leg while everyone else wants pizza.
Child-free Disneyland allows you to hold hands with your partner as you zip, tumble and catapult through the air. That’s the real magic.
Peri Kinder is an award-winning columnist and journalist who has written for The City Journals since 2004. She also hosts the Life & Laughter podcast. Peri can be reached at peri.k@thecityjournals.com.
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