Holladay Journal | September 2023

By Collette Hayes |

Music is a powerful asset for building communities and for enhancing quality of life. The Summer Concert Series presented by the Holladay Arts Council and Holladay Bank & Trust brought the community together for two months of summer evening entertainment and fun for the entire family.

Jeff Whiteley, founder and managing director of the nonprofit organization Excellence in the Community, has partnered with Holladay City for the last seven years to produce nine Saturday evening concerts held at Holladay City Hall Park.

“The purpose of Excellence in the Community is to create more and better performance opportunities for Utah’s best musicians,” Whiteley said. “All of our concerts are offered to the public at no charge. We are in contact with some of the top performers in Utah including members of the Utah Symphony. All praise to the mayor of Holladay, the Holladay Arts Council and the Holladay City

Continued page 5

Saturday evening music filled the air with over 700 concert participants spread out across the Holladay Park lawn each night for the Summer Concert Series. A diverse genre of music was presented during the two-month event. (Collette Hayes/City Journals)

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Holladay artist Nancy Vorm finds passion in the encaustic art process

Thebeauty in imperfection found in nature is the underlying theme in Nancy Vorm’s encaustic paintings. Vorm utilizes natural materials and elements such as beeswax, Asian papers, inks and rusts to create depth in texture, luminosity and translucency in her non-objective art.

An accomplished artist, represented by Phillips Gallery in downtown Salt Lake City, Vorm has been selected by the Holladay Arts Council as Holladay Artist of the Month. Vorm’s encaustic paintings have appeared in over 30 exhibitions around the world. Her works are highlighted in a number of publications as well as displayed in several public buildings. Vorm has taught workshops locally and in Park City. Currently, she teaches private workshops on the encaustic art process at her studio in the Bogue Foundry in Salt Lake City.

Vorm received her Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene from Indiana University and worked as a dental hygienist for many years. After relocating to Salt Lake City with her husband, who is in the automobile racing industry and travels extensively, she found herself with a significant amount of free time. Vorm made the decision to go back to school and study art history. After being accepted in to the University of Utah’s art department, she was encouraged to work toward a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in painting and drawing. While working toward her degree, Vorm discovered the encaustic medium art form.

“I’m a very process-oriented artist,” Vorm said. “When I was introduced to the encaustic process at the university, I absolutely fell in love with it. Amazingly, when old ships were pulled up that had sunk at sea, paintings on board were still intact. Because of the many layers of beeswax used in the encaustic process, the paintings were protected. The encaustic art form died out for many years, then there was a resurgence of it in the 1950s.”

Encaustic painting is one of the oldest art forms dating back to ancient Greece. It is a lengthy process. To begin, photographs or underpainting can be applied to a substrate surface, usually a wood panel. Pigment is added to hot liquid beeswax. The wax is then applied to the wood panels in layers. After a layer of liquid wax has been brushed on, heat is applied using an encaustic fusing tool. This allows each layer to soften and melt into the previous layers. Tools then can be used to scrape, groove or gauge the wax.

Vorm makes her own inks used in her encaustic paint-

r nals

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By Collette Hayes | c.hayes@mycityjournals.com

ings from various materials taken from nature. She has several sketchbooks filled with detailed notes of the materials and the processes used to make natural ink. Detailed steps can be found for the process of making prickly pear cactus fruit ink. There are a number of color samples of English walnut and hickory tree ink. Throughout the sketchbooks observations are documented—for example, the inconsistencies in color of hibiscus ink and the beautiful color obtained from avocado pits.

“I really don’t want to exhibit my art in shows for a while,” Vorm said. “I want to focus on my inks. Recently, I’ve been collecting rocks to make ink out of minerals. I want to spend more time playing with the inks and figuring out ways to incorporate it into my art.”

Utah’s diverse and varied landscape provides inspiration for Vorm’s encaustic paintings.

“I love the Great Salt Lake,” Vorm said. “The inspiration for my art comes from observing the imperfections in nature. Embracing this beauty of imperfection is the underlying theme in all of my work.”

Vorm’s artwork will be on display at Holladay City Hall through September.

If you would like to nominate an artist for Holladay Artist of the Month visit the Holladay Arts Council website at holladayarts.org. For more information about Vorm’s art, she can be contacted at njvorm@gmail.com.l

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An accomplished artist, represented by Phillips Gallery in downtown Salt Lake City, Nancy Vorm has been selected by the Holladay Arts Council as Holladay Artist of the Month. (Photo credit Nancy Vorm)

“I love the Great Salt Lake,” artist Nancy Vorm said. “The inspiration for my art comes from observing the imperfections in nature.” (Photo credit Nancy Vorm)

Continued

Council. They are all a delight to work with.”

Holladay Arts Council member Kathy Murphy was responsible for taking the lead and detailed organization of the Summer Concert Series event. Murphy remarked, “We have a priceless support group of volunteers who spend infinite hours doing design, advertising, setting up, and taking down the equipment for each concert. Our partnership with Excellence in the Community has allowed us to provide professional quality entertainment to our community and to others who live in the valley. We are grateful for this opportunity to build a stronger, more diverse community for everyone.”

Saturday evening music filled the air with over 700 concert participants spread out across the Holladay Park lawn each night during the Summer Concert Series. A diverse genre of music was presented during the twomonth event. Country singer Charley Jenkins kicked off the concert series during the annual Holladay Fourth of July celebration. The Rumba Libre Band, an all-star salsa band, took the stage in July with Latin jazz, cumbia, bachata, and merengue music. The evening of the Blue Moon Festival in August, The Strawberry Fields Band played John Lennon and Paul McCartney classics bringing many to their feet.

“We love planning our concert series each year because we get excited about all the different kinds of music, we could offer our community,” Holladay Arts Council Executive Director Sheryl Gillilan said. “The goal in our mind is to expose people to as many genres as possible. You don’t have to like it, but if you can appreciate the work that went into writing the music and the passion the musicians have for playing it, that’s a success. And, of course, if you really like it and discover a new genre, that’s even better.” l

The Summer Concert Series presented by the Holladay Arts Council and Holladay Bank & Trust brought the community together for two months of summer evening entertainment and fun. (Collette Hayes/City Journals)

Kathleen Riebe thinks Utahns are ‘ready to reset the tone’

By Zak Sonntag | z.sonntag@mycityjournals.com

BeforeKathleen Riebe had become a public school teacher and school board member, and long before she secured a seat in the Utah Senate, she was a police dispatcher and red-card-carrying wildland firefighter—a daringly adventurous role that seems to capture something essential about the woman now running in the special election to represent Utah’s 2nd Congressional District in Washington.

“Why wouldn't you want to provide a public service that’s that cool. We got to fly in a helicopter and be in this beautiful national park. It just kind of resonated with my lifestyle,” she told the City Journals.

“Being the only female and meeting people from another state was definitely character building. It makes serving in the Senate not so daunting when you think you could’ve been sent into a forest fire,” she said.

Riebe, a Cottonwood Heights resident, moved to Utah 33 years ago from her native New York, and has made a reputation in the Beehive State as an effective minority party legislator, shepherding efforts to bring emergency services and broadband internet access to rural communities and expand education across the state while empowering local school boards.

As a result she’s earned an impressive base of supporters, seen in June when Riebe

swept up her party’s primary nomination with 86% of the vote.

Even still, the district leans red, putting Riebe, a Democrat, on an uphill slope. Nonetheless, her campaign sees the current political atmosphere as highly unpredictable, and therefore an opportunity to gain ground. Riebe believes she will appeal to the growing number of voters interested in a moderate way forward at a moment when many communities are mired in polarization.

“I think about what people across the state have been asking me, and they've been asking for more moderation. They've been asking for people to step away from wedge issues,” she said.

Riebe says the district’s residents are frustrated with the state’s direction and vexed by the current leadership’s actions on issues like gerrymandering; she believes the strength of her policy can prevail over the affiliation of her party, and that Utahns are reevaluating what they want from representatives.

“I think people are really ready to reset the tone, and maybe hit the pause button on some of the things that we've been doing here in the state,” she said, adding that her approach to legislating privileges local control and flexibility. “When you try to come up with solutions, you need to build elasticity into them, so they are not so rigid that you can't carve out room for everyone’s needs.”

Also in her favor, the special election happens during an off-year due to the unanticipated resignation of current Rep. Chris Stewart, who cited his wife’s health concerns: some political strategists think the off-year dynamic will play well for a minority party contender like Riebe.

Nonetheless, they have not forgotten that District 2 Rep. Stewart beat the last Demo-

cratic challenger by 25 points in 2022.

Beyond running blue in a red district, Riebe must also navigate the challenges of a deeply gerrymandered map, which lumps together an urban/rural demographic from Salt Lake to St. George.

Riebe, however, has made a name as an ally to both urban and rural Utahns with legislative efforts to expand broadband access with the aim of educational equity as communities have transitioned to remote learning, while simultaneously helping expand telehealth.

“When I think about all these communities, they're all looking for affordable housing. They're all looking for health care. They're all looking for education. We think we're so different, but we're really the same. We're all trying to put food on the table. We're all trying to pay our bills, and raise our kids,” she said.

In these ways, perhaps, her campaign has a leg up, but when it comes to money she’s distinctly behind.

“I’m a very different candidate from my peers because I can’t loan my campaign hundreds of thousands of dollars,” she said, referring to her opponents' more cushioned coffers.

Yet she feels that what she lacks in money she can make up in the sweat equity of good ole fashion retail politicking—mingling from behind a booth at the farmers market, say, or shaking hands with voters at the Labor Day Festival in Parowan.

She also feels confident about her ability to make her case in the upcoming October debate.

“I love a good debate,” she said. “As a sixth-grade school teacher I was debating all the time.” l

Kathleen Riebe, a Cottonwood Heights resident, moved to Utah

33 years ago from her native New York. (Photo courtesy Kathleen Riebe)

Carmelite Fair returns with events for the entire family

TheCarmel of the Immaculate Heart of Mary monastery in Holladay prepares to welcome a crowd of thousands to its annual Carmelite Fair.

Twelve cloistered nuns live, work and pray at the monastery. The nuns are independent of the diocese and live solely on alms. Donations received from the Carmelite Fair provide 80% of the monastery’s yearly income.

There are more than 150 volunteers serving on fair committees to support the daylong event. Engineers, attorneys, business owners and many others donate time to chair committees. Chris Bertram, chairperson for the fair, was the former Chief of Police in Holladay until he retired in 2015. After retiring, he began to take more of an active role as chairperson for the Carmelite Fair.

“I became involved in the fair with my dad,” Bertram said. “My dad, a retired FBI agent, was the chairperson for the fair for over 25 years. Fair preparation begins soon after the fair ends. We meet as a committee and talk about what went well and what needed to be improved. Starting in January our volunteer committees begin to meet monthly. Everything provided at the fair is donated from individuals or businesses. Most businesses have been donating for decades. The nuns pray for peace in the community. They pray for peace in the world. That is their vocation. They live a life of prayer every day. Our job as volunteers is to help provide funds so they can continue.”

Silent auction chairperson, Mary Solak, has a committee of five volunteers who work up to six hours a day four days a week beginning in February to prepare gift baskets for the silent auction. After gift basket donations are received, the committee creates over 250 gift baskets to be auctioned off at the fair.

“The silent auction committee has a certain quality level for the gift baskets,” Solak said. “Each year we want to be sure to retain a high bar for everything auctioned. We have support and donations for the baskets coming in from all over Utah as well as other states in the United States.”

According to Bertram, it takes a lot of effort to prepare the monastery for the day-

By Collette Hayes | c.hayes@mycityjournals.com

long event. Juan Diego High School students will arrive early the morning before the fair to prepare the monastery grounds. The Judge Memorial High school football team will gather at the monastery after the event to take down event booths and provide general cleanup of the monastery.

“Our volunteers have become so dear to us,” Mother Therese said. “They come from all different parts of the Salt Lake Valley, all for the love of the nuns. We are here to serve the Lord by praying for the community as well as the entire world. The Lord takes care, and the Lord will provide.”

This year, an original oil on canvas painting donated by renowned Canadian contemporary visual artist Peter Winnett will be auctioned. Handmade goods, including embroidered items made by the nuns, a food court, dancers from around the world, giveaways such as a 2023 Kia and many prizes and games including a new duck derby in the children’s area will all be part of this year’s fair.

The lineup for Carmelite events:

Sunday, Sept. 17: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Carmelite Fair, Carmelite Monastery (5714 Holladay Blvd.). There will be limited parking near the monastery. Shuttle service will be available in the community at four different locations. For shuttle information visit: www.carmelslc.org/carmelite-fair/.

Saturday, Sept 9: 8 a.m. 12th annual Golf for the Nuns Tournament, Old Mill Golf Course, shotgun scramble format. For tournament information contact dvgarcia8@ gmail.com.

Sunday, Sept. 17: 8-9 a.m. 12th annual 5K “Run for the Nuns” walk/run. The start and finish lines will be at the Carmelite Monastery. $25 registration fee. The race is open to all age levels and fitness abilities. For race information contact runforthenuns@gmail. com.

For more information about the Carmelite Fair visit: www.carmelslc.org/carmelite-fair.

For questions about how to become a volunteer or make a donation to the Carmelite Monastery of Salt Lake visit their website at: carmelslc.org. l

Handmade goods, including embroidered items made by the nuns, a food court, dancers from around the world, a 2023 Kia giveaway and many prizes and games, including a new duck derby in the children’s area, will all be part of this year’s Carmelite Fair.

After gift basket donations are received, the silent auction committee creates over 250 gift baskets to be auctioned off at the Carmelite Fair. (Photo credit Erika Solak)

On Sunday, Sept. 17, the 12th annual 5K “Run for the Nuns” walk/run will be held. Start and finish lines will be at the Carmelite Monastery in Holladay. The race is open to all age levels and fitness abilities.

(Photo credit Erika Solak)

(Photo credit Erika Solak)

Bonneville Jr. High welcomes new students on

By Heather Lawrence | h.lawrence@mycityjournals.com

Bonneville Jr. High in Holladay started back to school on Aug. 16. They began the day with just the sixth graders at 7:45 a.m., then the rest of the students joined them at 9:45. The administration wanted to create an immediate sense of identity and school pride with carefully planned first day activities.

“We have 221 new sixth graders starting at Bonneville this year. We want to get them used to the junior high school experience, and help them all feel like they belong,” said principal Jen Johnson.

Faculty members manned check-in tables outside the main entrance to the school. Many students came with their parents for the first day, and parents could take pictures of their kids in front of a photo background with the Bonneville Jr. High Vikings logo.

Johnson and the rest of the faculty were easy to spot in their matching school T-shirts. The sixth graders also got free school shirts, something the school does every year for new students “so they can feel that Viking pride,” Johnson said.

But they were trying some new things, as well.

“This morning we decided to have just

the sixth graders come at the regular start time of 7:45. We’re giving them two hours to explore the school in groups of 25. They rotate through different stations, and we show them where the cafeteria and gym are. They can also practice their lockers.

“We tell them about different activities and sports teams they can be on. And with a teacher’s supervision, each group is being led by two of our older student officers,” Johnson said.

Student body officer and eighth-grader Charlie Woodward was in charge of “Team Charlie,” along with his friend Gray from Peer Leadership.

“I like being a student officer a lot. Last year, I did student government, and over the summer we had a meeting so we’d be ready to help out today,” Charlie said.

Charlie was happy to be leading his group with Gray, who he said is a “cool guy,” and was excited to make the younger students feel like they had a friend at school.

“Most of the kids coming in I know or have at least seen around. So far today we’ve shown them the counseling center and the library, and we’ve got some other places to go,” Charlie said.

The peer leaders are all part of Johnson’s plan to help the sixth graders feel like a part of the school. For his part, Charlie is planning to make sure the new students feel welcome not just on the first day, but for the rest of the year.

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“When I see them in the halls, dude, I’m just going to high-five them and say hi and make them feel like they have a friend here.”l

Eighth-grade student officers Charlie Woodward (left) and his friend Gray lead a group of sixth graders through the halls of Bonneville Jr. High on the first day of school Aug. 16. (Heather Lawrence/City Journals)

Olympus girls soccer sets out to defend region title

By Josh McFadden | j.mcfadden@mycityjournals.com

Witha new cast, the Olympus girls soccer team is finding region play to be a little more challenging than it was a year ago. But the Titans are still a tough team to deal with.

Last season, Olympus shared the Region 6 crown with East, as both teams went 10-2. Overall, the Titans were 13-4 and advanced to the Class 5A state quarterfinals before losing to Cedar Valley 1-0. Many key players from that team graduated, leaving head coach Jamie Evans with a youthful, inexperienced group—but a group not lacking talent or drive. Evans also said this team is athletic and boasts some fast players.

“We are a very young group,” Evans said. “Some of the challenges are just giving these girls experience to play at the fast pace that we are trying to consistently play at. As with any newly put-together team, we are learning to trust one another and getting to know how each other plays. This year’s team has a lot of speed. We are a young group, but the athleticism of this group is among the best I have ever coached.”

That athleticism helped Olympus to a 4-3 start. Olympus showed some early promise, though the 2023 campaign has had some rough spots too. The Titans had an impressive 6-3 win over Bingham on Aug. 10 as

well as 2-0 win over Corner Canyon to start the season July 31. Olympus also defeated Wasatch 5-2 on Aug. 8 and got past Alta 4-2 on Aug. 21 for its first Region 6 win against two losses. The Titans also struggled on Aug. 4 against a talented Lone Peak squad, falling 5-0. In two region losses, Olympus lost a pair of 2-1 games, first to East on Aug. 14 and then to Skyline on Aug. 17.

“We are trying to play in a way that everyone understands their role on the field, no matter what position they are playing in,” Evans said. “One of our goals is to improve as a group every time we step on the field, which so far, I feel like the girls have really been successful at. We are trying to get them to understand the game of soccer so they can make decisions on the field based off of their own understanding—not coaches always telling them what to do. One objective that we are focusing on is helping each girl to increase their awareness on the field.”

So far, Evans has been impressed with several players and their leadership and performance. Junior Hope Munson is a “big contributor on the field,” she said. “She is a great leader on and off of the field. She can play everywhere on the field, and we will use her in almost every position.” Munson had four goals and two assists through the

first seven games. She has also committed to play college ball at the University of North Carolina, one of the country’s top programs.

Other standouts on the Titans’ team include junior goalkeeper Joss Baker, sophomore Anna Neff and senior Dani Lunceford, whom Evans said is the “anchor on the back line.” Lunceford is also overcoming a serious knee injury that she suffered last year. Evans said Lunceford’s “leadership and strength is a great example to this young group.”

To once again compete for a region championship, Olympus will need to continue to come together as a team and overcome some formidable opponents. But Evans said effort, not necessarily wins and losses, will determine how much of a success this season will be.

“We will be successful if we continue to work hard and continue to trust one another,” she said. “We will be successful if the girls take accountability for their roles on and off of the field. We will be successful if we can do the simple things consistently well. Lastly, we will be successful if we can walk off the field at the end of games feeling like we gave it our all.”

The Titans finish the regular season Sept. 25 at home against Brighton. The 5A playoffs follow. l

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Dazzling the skies: Drone light shows take flight

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

During the Cottonwood Heights Butlerville Days celebration, a merging of lights and technology took center stage in the night sky. Residents gathered to watch a mesmerizing drone show, where art and innovation collide.

Cottonwood Heights Culture Manager Ann Eatchel added the drone show to this year’s celebration after meeting with Open Sky, a drone light show company. She wanted to bring a new element to the annual celebration and offer an alternative to fireworks.

Not quite breaking with tradition, Eatchel scheduled the drone show for Friday night and the regular fireworks show for Saturday. There was mixed reaction from residents for both shows.

“Some people left the drone show saying that was the coolest thing ever…It didn’t have the loud noises that can scare pets and it doesn’t leave the smoke and pollution a fireworks show does,” Eatchel said. “And then I had people say no, I’m a fireworks person. I gotta have the booms, gotta have the sparkles. So it totally went both ways.”

Cities across Salt Lake County are choosing drone shows over fireworks for celebrations. Salt Lake City held a drone show for its Fourth of July event and the city of South Jordan teamed with LiveDAYBREAK to bring a drone show to city residents.

Nate Mortensen, Open Sky CEO, said demand for drone shows has increased significantly. Last year, the company did about 30 shows, but now they’re doing that many each month. He says comparing drone shows to fireworks is an apples to oranges situation. While drones can’t replicate the pop and sizzle of fireworks, the show provides cities with the ability to person-

alize the production and tell a story.

“We customize and change the show to match the theme of each event that we fly and use this as a storytelling opportunity as opposed to just entertainment,” Mortensen said. “If you can imagine staring at the sky and seeing shooting stars or meteors crossing the sky, it happens so quick, but you really remember that experience. A drone show is 10 to 13 minutes of choreographed shooting stars that you're watching in the sky.”

A customized drone show’s cost can be equivalent to a fireworks show, usually starting around $15,000, based on the

number of drones used. Most city shows average 150 drones but Open Sky has created shows using hundreds of drones at a six-figure cost.

Proponents of drone shows say drones are better for the environment and safer for residents than traditional fireworks. But while a fireworks show can last up to 30 minutes, a drone show lasts about half that time.

Each drone costs thousands of dollars and battery life lasts about 14 minutes. Mortensen has found that’s a great length of time to keep the audience engaged without losing their attention.

The Cottonwood Heights event featured 150 drones with music and was customized to include the city’s logo and the logo of two event sponsors. If she has her way, Eatchel would love to offer both a drone and fireworks show at next year’s Butlerville Days.

“I have a whole plan if the council wants to move forward,” she said. “But I’m here to do what the council wants, what the Butlerville Days committee wants and what the public wants.”

As drone technology evolves, Mortensen expects the Open Sky shows to bring more creativity, choreography and customization to his clients. He’s excited to see what comes next and he challenges everyone to get out to see a drone show in person.

“Watching [a drone show] online is a great way to see it. But it’s much different in person when you see the size and the scale of these formations that are hundreds of feet wide and hundreds of feet tall. It’s really something to behold,” he said. “The most common takeaway we hear from people after a show is they didn't know what to expect….It just exceeds their expectations when they finally see one in person.” l

Cottonwood Heights residents enjoyed the city’s first drone show during Butlerville Days, as more cities explore drone show options. (Photo courtesy of Cottonwood Heights)

each member of the Council to relate how he or she became involved in city government. To our surprise, each of us said that they were first invited and encouraged to run by someone already serving in local government.

In my case, the invitation came on June 5, 1999. On that day Liane Stillman, then a leader in Holladay’s successful incorporation drive, knocked on our front door to discuss plans for the new city. My wife, Julie, and I invited her in for a conversation. After a half hour visit in our living room, Liane paused, and to my surprise suggested that I ought to run for city council. I immediately thought, “I could do that,” and decided to give it a try. I was elected later that year, which began a quarter of a century of association at city hall. I’ll be forever grateful to Liane for giving a then-much-younger man the courage to put myself out there and toss my hat in the political ring.

Amazingly, this pattern of receiving an invitation to serve was repeated twenty years later, to the day. On June 5, 2019 I was having a casual conversation with former Council Member Mark Stewart. He mentioned that he was not running for reelection, and said, “You ought to run, Dan.” I once more thought, “I could do that!” and gave it a try. I am grateful for this little boost of encouragement from Mark.

Now, as I conclude what will be my final term on the Council, I’m hoping that there are some who read this who might also think to themselves, “I could do that!”

I encourage anyone who has ever thought about giving their time and heart in public service to give it a try. Besides running for a seat on the City Council, there are many other opportunities to serve in Holladay City, including service on the Planning Commission, Arts Council, Tree Committee, Historical Commission and in many other ways.

Holladay has great need for rising generations of leaders who are willing to prepare themselves for service and who have the courage to step up and say, “I could do that!” I promise you that if you do, however and wherever you serve, that it will enrich your lives, as it has mine.

—Council Member Dan Gibbons -District 5

Rooted in Community!

The City of Holladay has kicked off a grassroots fundraising effort called Friends of Holladay to engage residents in supporting and investing in the community that we all love. These efforts will be focused on things that are not necessarily “essential services” for the City, but enhancements that will improve the quality of life for all residents. Join us in bringing these great projects to Holladay! Learn more and donate at cityofholladay.com/community/friends.

• Skatepark Sports Lighting: Bring new sports lighting to Holladay Skatepark. The new lights will allow users to ride in the cooler summer evenings, as well as during the fall and winter evenings when daylight savings ends. They also support safer skateboarding conditions and enhance security for the park. Once our funding goal is secured, the new lighting could be in place in a few short weeks.

• Concert Stage: Support Holladay Arts! Enhance the Holladay City Park Gazebo with the addition of a portable stage that will be used for summer concerts and festivals. The stage addition will improve the experience of audience members and create a larger performance space for artists. Our aim is to have the stage in place for the 2024 Holladay Arts Council summer concert season.

• Historic Exhibit Experiences: Help share our community’s history with new historic exhibit experiences that will highlight the people, places, and stories that make our community unique. The project includes exhibits in Holladay City Park, displays in Holladay City Hall, and engaging kiosks in community centers. The project will kick-off this fall with a public opening targeted for 2025.

FREE Ham Radio Technician Class

Saturday, September 16, 2023

10:00 am – NOON

Laser Financial Offices - 6330 S 3000 E, STE 600

This class is intended to get you ready to take the FCC test. Classes will be taught in the corporate offices of Laser Financial. There will be Audio/Visual screens and even the ability to broadcast the class! Invite family, friends, neighbors, school teachers, CERT-Trained, First Responders, City Officials--anyone with interest in disaster preparedness communication.

Many thanks to Emron Andrew for offering his business location training center for our Ham Radio Class. Questions about materials and text for class? Email: Dave McPhie k7sx73@gmail.com

To register for this class, email bikerdansker@hotmail.com,

Apply for the New Business Advisory Board

Holladay is looking for individuals who want to share their knowledge about business growth along with ways to build and maintain strong partnerships within the Holladay business community. We invite Holladay City business owners, partners, and those in the business community to apply for and join the City of Holladay’s Business Advisory Board. You have the opportunity to make your voice heard, to make a difference by improving communication, and create more collaborations within the community.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Ann Frances Garcia , Economic Development & Housing Manager at 801-527-3890

Apply Now by scanning the QR code. Return the completed application to Ann Frances Garcia at annfgarcia@cityofholladay.com

THANK YOU!

Thank you to our UPD precinct and officers for our Night Out event. We appreciate all their time and hard work putting on this event. It was a great evening and a fun opportunity to visit with so many members of the community. Thank you also to all of our partners who came out to show their equipment, hand out literature, and cook hotdogs. We look forward to seeing you again at next year’s Night Out on August 6, 2024!

SEPTEMBER 2023

CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS:

Rob Dahle, Mayor rdahle@cityofholladay.com

801-580-3056

Ty Brewer, District 1 tbrewer@cityofholladay.com

801-550-8747

Matt Durham, District 2 mdurham@cityofholladay.com

801-999-0781

Paul Fotheringham, District 3 pfotheringham@cityofholladay.com

801-424-3058

Drew Quinn, District 4 dquinn@cityofholladay.com

801-272-6526

Dan Gibbons, District 5 dgibbons@cityofholladay.com

385-215-0622

Gina Chamness, City Manager gchamness@cityofholladay.com

PUBLIC MEETINGS:

City Council

– rst and third Thursday of the month at 6 p.m.

Planning Commission – rst and third Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.

CITY OFFICES:

Mon-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. • 801-272-9450 4580 South 2300 East • Holladay, UT 84117

Community Development 801-527-3890

Finance 801-527-2455

Justice Court 801-273-9731

Code Enforcement 801-527-3890

NUMBERS TO KNOW:

Emergency 911

UPD Dispatch (Police) 801-840-4000

UFA Dispatch (Fire) 801-840-4000

Animal Control 385-468-7387

Garbage/Sanitation 385-468-6325

Holladay Library 801-944-7627

Holladay Lions Club 385-468-1700

Mt. Olympus Sr. Center 385-468-3130

Holladay Post O ce 801-278-9942

Cottonwood Post O ce 801-453-1991

Holliday Water 801-277-2893

Strengthening Community Resilience: Lessons from Hawaii Upgrades Coming to City Hall

By Brad Jewett, Emergency Planner

As the vibrant city of Holladay, Utah, transitions from the heat of summer to the beauty of autumn, it’s important for us to reflect on the recent events in Hawaii and how they can offer valuable insights for our own community. While the geographical differences between our two locales are evident, the lessons of preparedness, unity, and resilience that emerged from Hawaii’s experiences can serve as a source of inspiration and guidance for us all.

Hawaii’s recent encounters with natural events like wildfires and volcanic eruptions underscore the vital importance of preparedness. In Holladay, where the threat of earthquakes and extreme weather conditions exists, these lessons hold true. As we head into the fall season, it’s a timely reminder for residents to review their emergency plans, update contact information, and ensure that emergency supplies are well-stocked. By taking proactive steps now, we can face whatever challenges may come our way with greater confidence.

Hawaii’s response to adversity showcased the power of community unity. In the face of natural disasters, neighbors came together to support one another, offering assistance, shelter, and emotional comfort. This spirit of solidarity serves as a model for Holladay’s tight-knit community. By fostering strong relationships with our neighbors, we can create a network of support that strengthens our collective resilience. Simple acts of kindness, like checking in on elderly neighbors or sharing emergency resources, can make a significant difference when it matters most.

The City of Holladay will be reconstructing its front entryway stairs, ADA ramp and landscaping. A snowmelt system will also be added to increase winter access safety. This will bring the City Hall entrance up to current ADA standards and provide a modern, efficient, and safe upgrade to City Hall.

Construction will start on or around September 6th. During this construction period, entry to City Hall will be through the West door across from the City Park gazebo. ADA access will be at the south door of the building by the dumpster. Parking will be maintained in the northwest lot behind the police station and the southwest lot by the playground.

Historical Commission

Historical Commission

In the age of technology, staying informed is easier than ever. Hawaii’s experience highlighted the significance of clear and reliable communication channels during emergencies. Holladay residents can benefit from establishing a comprehensive family communication plan, similar to those employed in Hawaii, which includes multiple modes of contact and designated meeting points. Additionally, staying informed about local emergency services and resources is crucial. Familiarity with Holladay’s emergency response systems can help us navigate challenging situations more effectively.

As September arrives in Holladay, let’s draw inspiration from the resilience demonstrated by the people of Hawaii. By prioritizing preparedness, cultivating community unity, maintaining effective communication, and respecting our environment, we can create a safer and stronger city. Whether it’s reaching out to a neighbor, updating our emergency plans, or simply being more aware of our surroundings, every small action contributes to our collective well-being. Just as Hawaii emerged from its challenges with renewed strength, so too can our community thrive in the face of adversity.

SPEAKER SERIES SEPT 12 @ 7 PM AT HOLLADAY CITY HALL

The History of Homes with Adrienne White

The History of Homes with Adrienne White

Adrienne White, founder of House Genealogy, is a professional house historian, researcher, and preservationist. She will be presenting interesting stories she’s uncovered while digging into the history of homes throughout Utah. You will learn that there's always more to discover about the place you call home

Adrienne White founder of House Genealogy is a professional house historian researcher and preservationist She will be presenting interesting stories she’s uncovered while digging into the history of homes throughout Utah You will learn that there's always more to discover about the place you call home

SAVE THE DATE

History

History Library Now Available

History Library Now Available

Mon, Oct 9 from 7 to 9 pm

History

Holladay City Hall

Mon, Oct 9 from 7 to 9 pm

Holladay City Hall

Check out the new collection of local history now available at the Holladay Library. @holladayhistoricalcommission

Check out the new collection of local history now available at the Holladay Library.

Holladay Library Happenings

Eclipse Solarbration

Saturday, September 30

10:30am - 1:30pm

Presentation by JoAnn Brown. JoAnn is a Solar Eclipse Partner for the National Science Teaching Association/Solar Science Institute. She will tell us all about what causes eclipses, where to go to see them, why we wear eclipse glasses and more! After her presentation, there will be solar eclipse crafts, solar eclipse glasses and fun at the library.

Teen Gaming Tournament

Late Night Activity! Library after-hours event!

Friday, September 08

6:30pm - 8:30pm

Compete in a Guilty Gear Strive (rated teen) gaming tournament! Winners win prizes! Join us for food, fun and new friendships. 6:30 pm8:30 pm. Register online if you would like to compete in the tournament. Please still join us if you are not planning on playing games!

Petapalooza, an Adoption Extravaganza!

Salt Lake County Animal Services

Join Salt Lake County Animal Services for Petapalooza, a pet adoption event on Saturday, September 23 from 9 AM – 4 PM! This is a Pet Adoption Extravaganza you won’t want to miss. This is a FREE, family and dog-friendly event at Wheeler Historic Farm which is located at 6351 S 900 E in Murray. Celebrate your pets with us!

There will be adoptable dogs, cats, and other small mammals from more than 15 pet rescues across Utah! There will also be local pet product vendors, a pet psychic, “tattoos” for pets, food trucks, and a chance for your pup to run through our new Agility Run.

Petapalooza is an incredible opportunity to adopt a new forever friend, spoil your pet while supporting local businesses, and get connected with the animal welfare community. Animal Control Officers will be on hand to microchip, and license pets in our jurisdiction as well. Remember all pets in Salt Lake County with a pet license can get a FREE microchip.

For more information visit AdoptUtahPets.org or email events@slco.org.

USA Rugby to host International Friendly in Utah

By Daniel Olsen | d.olsen@mycityjournals.com

Rugby is a popular sport in Utah and teams and players here have helped build up the sport in the United States. One player who has thrived in this environment is Paul Mullen.

“I’m from Ireland,” Mullen said. “It’s on a small island off the coast. When I went to high school on the mainland, the only sport they played was rugby. It was sink or swim. Fortunately, I was able to excel.”

Utah’s Major League Rugby team, the Utah Warriors, is hosting an attempt at the Guinness World Record for the largest rugby scrum, and proceeds from the event will benefit 5 for the Fight and Make-A-Wish Utah. With fan and player participation, the challenge will take place immediately following the upcoming international rugby spectacle featuring the USA Eagles and France’s Stade Toulousain on Sept. 16.

“We have a partnership with Stade Toulousain,” Utah Warriors CEO Kimball Kjar said. “They are arguably the Real Madrid of rugby. They won the most recent French championship. They are the most successful rugby club in the world. One goal of the partnership is to grow the sport of rugby but specifically within North America to help their brand grow. We also want the Utah Warriors brand to grow internationally and throughout Europe. We want to create events that showcase the sport of rugby.”

The thrilling matchup will be held at America First Field in Sandy with gates opening at 3 p.m. and game kickoff at 4 p.m. The pursuit for the world record begins at 6:30 p.m. Tickets to participate in the scrum, along with a commemorative T-shirt, cost $10 and can be purchased as an add-on at checkout when purchasing match tickets here.

“American football fans like big hits,” Mullen said. “Rugby is the same but doesn’t go on for four hours. It’s only 80 minutes.”

While Mullen didn’t grow up in the United States, he still is happy to be a part of the national rugby team.

“My grandfather grew up in the U.S.,” he said. “For me to represent America is a great honor.”

This momentous endeavor in rugby history serves to engage the community and rugby fans from around the world and raise funds for the Utah Warriors’ local nonprofit partners. Fans who have upgraded

their match ticket at the cost of $10 are invited to come down onto America First Field after the game, where over 3,000 people will lock arms to break the record of 2,586 participants set in 2018 in Aichi, Japan.

“This will be the biggest scrum in the world,” Mullen said. “It should be a friendly scrum. It is like a huge huddle. That would be cool if it was broken.”

“The long-term goal is to make Utah the epicenter of rugby for North America,” Kjar said. “We also want to be growing on a global scale. Utah has a love affair with the sport of rugby. Rugby playing countries led to the University of Utah playing rugby on their campus and eventually American football. Rugby was being played in the mid-20th century. BYU has won five national championships. Utah won a national championship too, in about 2010. Highland High School was successful and won over 20 national championships. We have one of the largest Polynesian communities outside of Polynesia. The guys that are in the NFL out of Utah all played rugby. Rugby is a part of Utah’s DNA. We are trying with the Warriors to help people understand the energy that is played in this sport. We can help re-awaken the energy of the sport.”

This event should be an educational opportunity for those involved.

“Anyone who hasn’t come to a game of rugby should come. It’s a perfect opportunity to watch the best players in our backyard. We make it very easy for people to come out and enjoy the sport and game. Educational things. Gives people a view of what the sport looks like. People love it carries the day,” Kjar said.

“The Rugby World Cup is the biggest event,” Mullen said. “But we are playing against incredible world class athletes. They are one of the best clubs in the world.”

While this event will take place during the middle of the Rugby World Cup, there will still be plenty of talented athletes who will line up against each other. The Rugby World Cup will take place from Sept. 8-Oct. 28.

The tickets are much cheaper than basketball, football, and soccer,” Mullen said. “It will be hard hitting with lots of scores and tackles. It should be an exciting time.”

While not every player from these teams will be in attendance, it will still be a world class matchup.

“We will have six to seven Utah Warriors playing as well as many of the best players from Toulouse,” Kjar said. “These are some of the best players in the world.” l

Eagles USA Rugby player Christian Dyer. (Kayla McFarland of Utah Warriors)

Supporting Our Police Force for a Safer Community

In a recent national study, a concerning trend has come to light within our police departments. Law Enforcement agencies across the country are facing challenges in recruiting new officers, and what's more, a growing number of officers are opting to leave their positions or retire earlier than expected (Source: Police Executive Research Forum).

We know that when a police force is stretched thin, struggling to respond promptly to emergencies and investigate crimes, it impacts our community’s safety. The heart of effective policing lies in the experience and expertise of our officers. If we find ourselves with a shortage of seasoned officers, it could affect the quality of training, decision-making, and overall effectiveness of law enforcement agencies.

The life of a police officer is anything but easy. They face a multitude of demands, carrying the weight of public expectations on their shoulders. Every day, they confront challenging, and sometimes heart-wrenching, situations. It's important to recognize that amidst the stress, many officers are driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact in their communities. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that prolonged exposure to stressors can take a toll on their mental well-being, leading to burnout and other health issues. We must stand together to support their journey toward mental wellness.

Aimee Winder Newton Salt Lake County Councilwoman| District 3

As a society, it is our responsibility to treat our police officers with empathy and respect. While constructive feedback is valuable, it's equally important to remember that the weight of their responsibilities can impact their mental health. Demonstrating appreciation and understanding will go a long way in boosting their morale and overall well-being.

Police officers are not just symbols in uniform – they are individuals with families, emotions, and aspirations. The pressures they face on the job can ripple into their personal lives, affecting their relationships and overall happiness. Recognizing their humanity and the toll their profession takes on their mental health enables us to build a community that truly values those who safeguard us.

Challenges police officers endure are immense, often exposing them to traumatic events and high-stress situations. Research indicates that police officers are more suscepti-

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Please join us for a FREE Community Grief Support Presentation

Understanding Grief: Caring for Yourself, Caring for Others

Thursday, September 14, 2023

6:45–8pm

Larkin Sunset Gardens Mortuary 1950 East Dimple Dell Road, Sandy, Utah

SPEAKER

William G. (Bill) Hoy, PH.D., FT

Author

Educator

Grief Counselor

Chaplain

Bereavement is not about “recovery,” but rather, about finding renewed life. The basic task for a bereaved person is to learn to live in a radically–changed world that no longer includes the physical relationship with our loved one. In this practical, community workshop, Dr. Bill Hoy will help bereaved people and those who care for them understand the practical steps to take charge of their grief and live again, even in the aftermath of incredible sorrow. For those in attendance who are curious about how to help, there will be ample ideas for the practical things to say and do (as well as to not say and do!).

During the workshop, we’ll find answers together to questions like:

• What simple actions can I take now to get my life back on track?

• Is what I’m feeling and seeing normal?

• How do I deal with well–meaning friends and their unwanted advice?

• The holidays are coming; what in the world are we going to do without them?

This event is complimentary of Larkin Mortuary and registration is not required. For more information, call (801) 571-2771

We are located in the heart of Murray and are excited to improve the lives of our residents and their families by offering Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care.

Local skaters’ revolutionary skateboard brake changes the game

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

The world of skateboarding is about to change – big time. Thanks to some innovative engineering and smart marketing, VibeRide has introduced the world’s first braking system for skateboards.

The brake adds an element of control and safety to the skateboard, never before seen in the sport. Founded by young, local skaters, VibeRide is taking the industry by storm.

Charlie Cannon (23), Carson Macdonald (22) and Chris Goodhue (27), were students at the University of Utah who came up with the idea to create a longboard brake and spent several years doing research and development before acquiring the design and patent of Brakeboard, an earlier braking system.

Once the patent was acquired, the team began the process of changing, updating and perfecting the design and VibeRide recently launched the finished product.

“It’s like a mini disc brake system. In fact, the only place we could get the ceramic

discs was an actual car factory,” Cannon said. “You put pressure down [on the brake] and the pressure gets equally distributed across these two disc brakes. The disc brakes close and then wears down that actual ceramic disc rather than wearing down your wheel.”

Before brakes, Cannon said he was always wearing the soles off his shoes, trying to stop his board on the steep hills near the university. But the skate brake is a life-changing (and shoe saving) device that can be installed on any board, or skaters can buy a board with the system already included.

Cannon, a former Sandy resident, is no stranger to success. During COVID, he founded EXO Drones, making millions of dollars before selling the company. Using the proceeds from the sale, he co-founded VibeRide with Macdonald, Goodhue and Australian partner Alex Beveridge, and they’re all riding a mega ramp of success.

The braking system was a hit at this year’s Outdoor Retail Expo and the company made more than $50,000 in sales in the first

VibeRide’s new skateboard braking system allows skaters to ride hills with more control and safety. The device was created by three University of Utah students. (Photos courtesy of VibeRide)

couple of months.

On the VibeRide TikTok channel @ viberide.co, videos demonstrate the efficiency and ease of the brake, and the brand is quickly gaining fans. Cannon was recently invited to make a YouTube video with Braille Skateboarding, a platform with nearly 6 million followers.

“We all love making videos and we make pretty fun videos,” Cannon said. “We have these crazy video ideas. We can put the brakes on anything. We’re gonna turn some wild objects into skateboards, like an old flat screen television, and two-by-fours.”

They consider this product a great fit for Utah, with all the hills and canyon roads.

Cannon believes the skateboard brake is perfect for the unique landscape in the state and will give skaters access to new rides and adventures. For more information, visit VibeRide.com.

“For us here, it truly changes the way we get to skateboard and longboard and go down these hills and streets and sidewalks and campuses that we never could before,” Cannon said. “It’s so fun. We’re gonna make a whole video series in places like Little Cottonwood and Emigration Canyon just to show people how game-changing this really is.” l

Marina Nelson, owner/proprietor of Big Mountain Alchemy, has been selling handmade jewelry, one-of-a-kind art and stones for more than 25 years. She learned about crystal healing from her mother, who was a jewelry designer, specializing in the metaphysical aspects of stones to benefit her customers. Marina developed a love for the mineral kingdom’s abilities to be used as a universal healing tool and learned all she could about the spiritual aspects of Mother Earth’s gifts.

She has used the creative, artistic side of life as a form of therapy and has shared this with her customers through various aspects of that journey, whether it was through teaching alternative arts and crafting or by featuring a new art form. Tell us more about you, Marina.

I would say I am a jack of all trades in terms of New Age talents, artistic endeavors and how this has applied to my trade over the years. I believe my customers appreciate my honesty and vulnerability as much as they appreciate my knowledge and expertise. This is what I offer and what I share with those who come to Big Mountain Alchemy. I don’t think my shop is a predictable place to visit. Sure, we have incense and crystals, Tarot and jewelry, but there is so much more in terms of the unexpected little things that can change from day-to-day that contribute to an original experience in my store.

How long have you been in business?

Big Mountain Alchemy has been open in Trolley Square since December 2022. I have been doing festivals, markets, boutiques and private classes for 25+ years.

What products and services do you offer?

I offer a unique shopping experience for those seeking items for a

more intuitive and spiritual lifestyle. Crystals, jewelry, books, tarot, apothecary/bath items, local products, featured art, hand-picked new, second-hand and vintage clothing, and much more. Many of our items are from local artisans featured on consignment. What sets your company apart from competitors?

Big Mountain Alchemy provides an ever-changing collection of merchandise. I select stones and products from eco-friendly and ethical sources, offer sustainable options for clothing and accessories and provide products and artwork from local and regional artists. This is a large store with lots of amazing products to explore.

Big Mountain Alchemy provides personal attention to customers’ needs, not often seen in retail these days, primarily in customizing your experience and making suggestions from an intuitive, knowledgeable source.

Does your business solve a problem for customers?

We provide an original shopping experience for those seeking to support multiple local and small businesses. Locals, visitors, young to old; all demographics will find something that they love.

How do clients choose between you or a competitor?

It comes down to personal preference and a conscious decision to patronize a small business that is dedicated to spiritual living and sustainable lifestyles. I’ve been told the overall energy and experience is worth coming back for again and again.

What is your best advice for someone who is considering doing business with you?

Plan on spending a bit of time in the shop. It is a big, 1800 squarefoot space with lots to explore. Don’t be afraid to ask questions! When exploring new spiritual ideas, let your instincts be your guide and don’t overthink. Come with minimal expectations and be receptive.

Are you currently running any special or hosting any upcoming events?

We have a special running in the City Journal Value Pages and always have in-store weekly specials and Instagram specials. We will host in-person monthly readings from talented local psychics, offering specialties like tarot and crystal readings. Other events will include color, art and sound healing, art and (witchy) craft nights and more. Customers can follow us on Instagram for updates.

Last month, I watched the neighborhood kids trudge back to school. Hunched under the weight of heavy backpacks, the little Quasimodos marched into the school year carrying a 300-page summer homework packet, an associate’s degree they earned at math camp, 750 colored pencils, scissors, an emotional support stuffed animal, cleaning products, a mass spectrometer, a non-BPA bento box and some allergen-free crackers.

When I attended elementary school in the 1900s, we didn’t use backpacks. They hadn’t been invented. It was too cumbersome to drag our handcart to school, so we carried our math, history, language, science, reading and social studies books home in our arms every night.

Most kids didn’t fail because they didn’t understand the homework, they failed because they were too weak to carry 50 pounds of textbooks.

Parents and educators set the bar for us at “extremely low” and we were lucky to hit that. One of my biggest challenges came in fourth grade when I started the school year wearing homemade avocado-green culottes. And it got worse. My Bionic Woman lunchbox had an unreliable latch, so I spent lunchtime worrying my PB&J would fall onto the floor and

Getting Schooled

Peri Kinder

Life and Laughter

everyone would laugh.

Not sure if I learned anything that year.

The motto at the elementary school near my home is “Academically smart, character strong.” I don’t think my school had a motto, unless it was “Sit down and shut up.” It wasn’t that our teachers didn’t care, they just thought “quiet reading time” or “rest your heads on your desks” was the best way to spend the majority of our day.

But that first day of school was always exciting. New school supplies had to be arranged carefully in my desk, including a brand new cardboard pencil box with a built-in pencil sharpener that was never sharp enough to create a point. It just mangled the top of my pencils, leaving a broken lead I kept pushing back into place.

And, of course, there had to be space

for my colorful hoppy taw, for hopscotch, and a bag of cat’s-eyes so I could shoot marbles at recess. Not real cat’s eyes. I’m not that old.

My grandson is in sixth grade, taking classes like flight science, robotics and computer engineering. When I was in sixth grade, we wrapped eggs in styrofoam and threw them off the school roof.

#Science

Luckily for today’s hard-working students, they get vacation days all the time. They’re off for Burning Man and Mardi Gras and Oktoberfest and (ironically) International Literacy Day. In the 1970s, we had Christmas Day off and a half-day for Thanksgiving. We didn’t even miss school for being sick. We just took our pneumonia-filled lungs to class and hoped we didn’t die during recess.

I’m not saying elementary school was better in the 20th century. It wasn’t. Not at all. If we could eat with a spoon in kindergarten, we would be at the top of the class. Kids who knew the difference between a letter and a number were named class president. Our role models were Bugs Bunny and the Muppets, so we were trained early in sarcasm.

Kids are so much smarter now than we ever were. I’m amazed at what my grandkids learn. I have a 7-year-old granddaughter learning Spanish and a 6-year-old granddaughter building LEGO robots. When I was their age, my biggest challenge was learning cat’s cradle. I guess the content in those heavy backpacks is paying off.