July 2026 | Vol. 23 Iss. 7
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Main Street housing See Initiative reimburses for housing units in upper floors Page 6 Inside...
Drought fees
City removes fees from low water users
Page 9
Los Muros on Main: 8 new murals created at yearly festival Photo by Peri Kinder
California muralist Shane Grammer added his large-scale art to Los Muros on Main: Midvale City Mural Festival. His mural is located on the east side of Salt Salon & El Potrero Market. It was the fifth year for the festival on Midvale’s Historic Main Street, with eight new murals added to the area.
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Ho Ho or Humdrum? Navigating Mental Health During the Holidays
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ur favorite big box stores and online ads have been reminding us for weeks that the holidays are to our Community Sponsors for just around the corner. Happy time, right? supporting City Surprisingly theJournals holidays can be a time of increased stress and can trigger mental health challenges for many. A 2023 survey by the American Psychological Association found that 89% of U.S. adults feel stressed
Loneliness. The holidays can create a heightened sense of loneliness for those who are separated from loved one or grieving a loss. According to Dr. Jared Lambert, a CommonSpirit family medicine physician in West Jordan, there are several things we can do to manage holiday stress and even find joy in a season that is meant to be joyful.
– sleep, exercise, and healthy eating – still matter at this time of year. Third – Set a budget. Having a financial plan going into the holidays helps with avoiding excessive spending. There’s nothing quite so deflating as January credit card bills that exceed what we can afford. Fourth – Find joy in small things. Make time to talk to a friend or family member who
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The goal of daycare should not simply be exhaustion, it should be balanced socialization, education, exercise, safety, and fun.
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
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COMMON GROUND
The Pot Calling the Kettle a Rainbow
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. As normal for June in Utah, there was little rainfall, but that didn’t stop tears of the far left from crying throughout the month. What were they upset about this time? Gov. Cox decided June (2026) should be Fidelity Month. Did the left feel betrayed by one of their biggest supporters when he didn’t recognize their month-long orgy? His declaration reads: Whereas, a recent opinion poll of Americans showed that support for traditional values has significantly declined; Whereas, a majority of Americans no longer esteem values like faith, family, patriotism or community involvement; Whereas, fidelity means dedication to faith, family and country; Whereas, it is imperative that we recommit ourselves to the pursuit of fidelity; Whereas, John Adams, a founding father of the United States, said, ‘‘Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.’’; Whereas, the survival of the United States depends on the shared bonds of faith, family and patriotism; and Whereas, it is fitting to observe one month each year to rededicate the United States to its core values; Now, therefore, I, Spencer J. Cox,
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governor of the great state of Utah, do hereby declare June, 2026 as Fidelity Month in Utah. If you imagined Gov. Cox activated his taxpayer-funded propaganda machine and waged war against the LGBTQ+ community by shoving his new declaration down everyone’s throat, it would be exactly that, your imagination. No politician has made such a lackluster declaration since Clinton used his air quotes. The Governor simply posted the declaration to his website. But that didn’t stop people from feeling butthurt about the proclamation. As if the Governor’s track record had been forgotten: 2021: The Governor declares the month of June, LGBTQ+ Pride Month in Utah. 2022: The Governor declares the month of June, LGBTQ+ Pride Month in Utah. 2023: The Governor declares the month of June, Pride Month in Utah. 2024: The Governor declares June the month of “Bridge Building”. 2025: No declaration by the Governor, but 42 miles south of the State Capitol Charlie Kirk, a right-wing political activist, was assassinated on Sept. 10. Note: the accused assassin may have been aligned with the LGBTQ community.
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2026: The Governor declares the month of June, Fidelity Month. Now, let’s look at the track record of the LGBTQ+ community for the same time period. 2021: They mock the LDS culture and religious community by creating an all-out effort to change Pioneer Day into Pie and Beer Day. 2022: They continue to mock LDS culture and community by creating an all-out effort to change Pioneer Day into Pie and Beer Day. 2023: They continue their mocking of the celebration of Pioneer Day. 2024: Continue mocking the celebration of Pioneer Day. 2025: Continue mocking the celebration of Pioneer Day. 2026: Continue their mocking celebration of Pioneer Day. It’s probably the most consistent aspect of their culture, in a world where they add new colors to their flag and their acronym gets so large they just add a + sign. To get respect, you might have to give a little. Common Ground: The current political environment has tricked us, leaving us with two polar options. Either we have to gay bash or we have to run through the street dressed like Richard Simmons, waving a rainbow flag. However, it seems like there’s a lot of ground in the middle. That ground might be the area most of us occupy. I think most Utahns can agree the
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LGBTQ+ community should be recognized; they should be allowed to celebrate their community. But can we make it less about their sexuality and focus more on their suffrage, rights, and successes? Those things we can all celebrate. As a mutual sign of respect, can’t all members of the state come together to celebrate and balance religious aspects with the suffrage, rights and successes within the communities? Those celebrations leave room for the journey of the pioneers in the mid-1800s and the similarities to that of the LGBTQ+ community in the mid-to late 1900s. Both suffered persecution. Both fought the federal government’s overreach as to who they can marry. Should Utah celebrate Pride Month? Of course. Should the Governor have declared the month Pride Month? Maybe. He doesn’t own the month; he can declare it anything he wants and we can celebrate each day as we please. Equally important are values like faith, family, patriotism or community involvement. Are they currently at risk? Of course. Let’s celebrate those values. So thank you, Gov.Cox, for supporting these key values and declaring June Fidelity Month. Let’s celebrate it and next year let’s get even louder about our celebration, maybe a drone show over the Capitol or a UFC fight in the rotunda. Thank you, Governor, for supporting Pride Month for five years. We hope you have not given up on it, and our families and community.
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Midvale RDA renews the Main Street Upper Floor Housing Initiative The housing initiative incentivizes business owners to turn their upper floors into affordable housing. By Giovanni Radtke g.radtke@mycityjournals.com
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Overhead view of Main Street. (Courtesy of Midvale)
n May 19, Midvale’s Redevelopment Agency board renewed its affordable housing incentive program on Main Street for another five-year term. The Main Street Upper Floor Housing Initiative reimburses owners of retail properties to turn their vacant upstairs lots into deed-restricted housing units. The RDA board’s renewal of the program extends the duration of deed restrictions from 15 years to 20 years. So far, the program has incentive agreements with West Main Apartments and the Canary. “Since its inception, we’ve had two incentive agreements that’s resulted in a little over $8 million of affordable housing funds invested into Main Street,” RDA Director Kate Andrus said at a board meeting in May. “This has allowed for the creation of 66 new
affordable housing units.” Assistant City Manager Nate Rockwood said The Pearl on Main theater is considering turning its upstairs offices into housing units. “We’re getting to … a pivot point where we’re not just trying to see … if we could find cool businesses to come to Main Street,” Rockwood said. “We’re getting lots and lots of options now of businesses that want to be there, and we’re actually being able to choose if it’s the right fit or not.” The initiative also incentivizes owners of single-story storefronts on Main to construct upper-floor dwellings. The program’s new term removes the $1,000 cap on the reimbursement threshold for adding an upstairs to a property. “It’s a delicate balance because we have had people come in that are interested in just tearing down existing buildings and then using the funding. And that’s not really what the program’s there for,” Andrus said. “It’s to enhance the existing buildings, but not to tear down historic buildings, just to do a new build with affordable housing.” The program was given $5 million to spend over the next five years, with the option of additional funding upon board approval.l
Noland & Son wins bid to replace Midvale’s water pipelines The construction firm will replace water pipes along 13 streets. The project will cost nearly $3.9 million. By Giovanni Radtke g.radtke@mycityjournals.com
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he Midvale City Council awarded a contract to Noland & Son Construction in April for a project to overhaul the city’s drinking water pipes. The construction team will replace waterlines running underneath 13 streets and install new meters and fire hydrants. The project, designed by engineering firm Hansen Allen and Luce in 2020, aims to accommodate Midvale’s growing population. The new pipelines will also help the city fulfill its water preservation plan, which highlighted fixing aging pipes as one of its main goals. Noland & Son previously replaced waterlines on Center Street and High Tech Drive in 2024. The construction firm is also finishing up the rehaul of the sewage system in central and southern Midvale. “We’ve always been fairly satisfied, if not greatly satisfied with their work,” Mayor Dustin Gettel said moments before the council unanimously approved the contract. The streets seeing pipeline replacements are: Cooper Street; Alta View Drive; Olympus Street; Wood Street; Marquette Drive; Wilson Street; Cox Lane; 900 East Casa Negra Avenue; Casa Blanca Drive; Mecham Lane; Casa Blanca Drive; Casa Verde Street; and 7500 South. Work on 7500 South consists of switching water services to an existing pipe and sealing off its connection to the line on Parkway Drive. Four of the streets – Casa Blanca, Mecham, Casa Verde and 900 East – currently have asbestos-cement pipes, which
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Project location and vicinity map designed by Hansen Allen and Luce. (Courtesy of Midvale)
will be replaced with plastic tubing, according to an appendix to the bidding documents. Pipes made with asbestos have an average lifespan of 70 years. Over time, the cement walls of the pipe start to corrode, and asbestos fibers seep into the water running through the line. Midvale’s most recent drinking water quality report did not detect any asbestos in the city’s water supply. Asbestos poses cancer risks when inhaled. However,
exposure via drinking water poses a low health risk, according to a scientific brief from the World Health Organization. The pipeline replacement project will cost nearly $3.9 million. Midvale will pay for the project using money raised through bonds, according to a staff report authored by City Engineer Branden Anderson. Noland & Son will finish replacing the waterlines by next spring at the latest. l
Midvale City Journal
Dear Mayor: We want to improve the city Midvale mayor gets big ideas from Midvale’s young residents. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
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idvale Mayor Dustin Gettel planned to spend part of his Memorial Day weekend answering letters from some of the city’s youngest residents. “I wrote the mayor asking for more trash cans in the park and along the sidewalks,” thirdgrader Kayra Santos Urban said. “If there were more, I’d pick up trash left behind and I’m sure others would use them too.” Her letter was one of more than 100 written by Midvale Elementary third graders who shared ideas for making the city a better place. Instead of simply reading the letters from his office, Gettel visited the school to meet students, answer some questions and encourage them to be involved in their community. Amongst the letters shared, students asked for cleaner parks and rivers, to fix a sidewalk bump after a bicycle accident, more cultural celebrations, free art and dance classes and additional swings at school. Gettel told students they can help shape their community.
Midvale Mayor Dustin Gettel cuts the ribbon at the mock grand opening of a new city park with the help of Midvale Elementary students. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
“The message I like to leave is to reach out to me,” he said. “Kids can make a difference. Don’t ever feel like you can’t reach out to me, your city councilmember, your legislator or even your president. Kids definitely have a voice in our government.” Students asked him questions such as his favorite color (purple), favorite place in Midvale (Jordan River Trail where he recently saw a pelican) and his favorite vacation place
(San Diego, although he hasn’t been on vacation for two years). They also asked if he had met President Donald Trump (no, but he met former President Joe Biden at Delaware Law School) and if being mayor was stressful. “Most days, 99% of the time, I love it,” he said. “When I wake up in the morning, I’m excited to go to work and be mayor of Midvale. Some days, there are issues when people reach out with problems that I can’t help with as
much as I might want to. In those instances, I try my best to point them in the direction where hopefully someone else can help them more.” Teacher Carly Mortensen said the letterwriting project helped students connect classroom lessons to real life. “We wanted them to know no matter the age, everyone has the capability to engage in civic discourse and fight for what they believe in and instill that young,” she said. Many students said the visit made city government feel more personal and fun, as he held mock ribbon cuttings with them. In one classroom, students opened a park and in another, a new fire station. “I liked the giant scissors he brought for the ribbon cutting,” third-grader Nathan Cobos said. “I learned anyone can go to city council to ask questions to get answers.” Classmate Carson Hill said his first time meeting a mayor inspired him: “I want to be mayor sometime. I want to help people.” Gettel, who also played on the faculty kickball team versus fifth graders, thanked students, saying he needed to get back to the office. “Thanks to you, I have a long list of ideas to improve the city,” he told students. “And some important mail to answer.” l
New Canyons Innovation Center reimagines career education District leaders say the Center will prepare students for college and careers through real-world projects and industry partnerships. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
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anyons School District is transforming the former eBay regional headquarters in Draper into an Innovation Center designed to connect students with hands-on career training, industry partnerships and real-world learning experiences. Canyons Innovation Center, located at 12943 S. 700 East, is expected to open fall 2027 and will replace the district’s current CTEC campus in Sandy. Renovations are already underway as crews reconfigure the building into specialized learning spaces for healthcare, engineering, media production, trades and technology programs. Leading the project is the Center’s new director, Reid Newey, who previously launched the Catalyst Center in Davis School District. “The big vision we want to create is a profession-based learning program,” Newey said. “We want to do in collaboration with industry and business to guide what our students are learning.” All 15 CTEC programs, including Certified Nursing Assistant, medical assisting, cosmetology, animation and cybersecurity, will relocate to the new location. The district has assembled a 25-member advisory committee representing healthcare, aerospace, defense, cybersecurity and technology. However, Newey said the district’s goal is not simply moving programs. “Rather than just moving programs, we want to reconfigure the learning process and move to a more profession-based learning,” he said. “We want our industry leaders to come and work with our students on authentic projects that will not only satisfy curriculum requirements, but will give our students an authentic experience in the industry.”
MidvaleJournal.com
Canyons Innovation Center will open in fall 2027 and will offer profession-based learning programs. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
New programs planned for the Innovation Center include culinary arts, hospitality, engineering, manufacturing and machining along with expanded multimedia and video production classes tied to CSDTV. The Center plans to offer cross-curricular projects that mirror real business needs. Students in business, media, computer science and drone programs could work together on marketing campaigns, app development and video productions for local companies. The Center also will expand its artificial intelligence program. CTEC launched its first AI concurrent enrollment course this year in partnership with Utah Valley University and Newey hopes the district will add data analytics instruction “because that really forms the backbone of AI.” The renovated campus will feature engineering and drone classrooms, robotics, manufacturing labs, film studios, animation classrooms, cosmetology salons and on the second floor, an expanded medical training area. The separate trades building will house welding, diesel mechanics and construction programs.
Canyons District sold the CTEC building to help finance the new Center, which can serve up to 3,000 students. During its first year, officials anticipate 1,800 students will participate in programs while continuing to attend classes at their home high schools. Bus transportation will be provided for students from the district’s five comprehensive high schools. Additionally, Canyons School District was awarded a $17.2-million Catalyst Center Implementation Grant from the Utah State Board of Education to help transform the Innovation Center. Canyons business administrator and CFO Leon Wilcox said the renovations are cost effective. “In the long run, this still should be cheaper than building a whole new school,” he said. Another aspect of the Center is the partnership with the Utah STEM Action Center to create a location that can host field trips, robotics competitions and outreach for students of all ages. “We want to create as much opportunity with increasing our programming and getting kids involved earlier in the opportunity to have a real industry experience in their education,” he said. Newey said current CTEC employees will transition to the new Center, so no jobs will be lost during the move. Teachers already have begun training through the Center for Advanced Professional Studies network and will continue periodic professional trainings. “I think the Innovation Center will create a new demand for education,” Newey said. Canyons Superintendent McKay Robinson agrees. “It’s an awesome opportunity, where students will be able to engage in cutting-edge learning, build real world skills, and have access to career pathways that didn’t exist, even a decade ago, and be able to rub shoulders with our industry leaders,” he said. “I’m going to carry the innovative vision forward that Dr. Robins (former superintendent) established with our board of education.” l
July 2026 | Page 7
Dual careers benefit a single community As teachers and Sandy City Councilmembers, Brooke Christensen and Alison Stroud share a common mission: serving Sandy and investing in its future. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
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ublic service doesn’t end when a city council meeting adjourns for Councilmembers Brooke Christensen and Alison Stroud. Both spend their days in elementary school classrooms, where they shape the next generation while gaining firsthand insight into the communities they serve. Though their paths into education and local government were different, both women see their dual roles as deeply connected. Christensen, who teaches resource classes at Copperview Elementary, said the motivation comes from making a difference. “I like knowing I’m making a difference; I’m using my time and talents to make a positive change in our community,” she said. “That’s huge for me.” Christensen first became involved in city government after organizing neighbors around a proposed development. That grassroots advocacy led to a seat on the Sandy City Council from 2018-21 before returning to office this year because “honestly, I missed it.” Teaching has come later. After leaving a career in supply chain management to raise her children, she began substitute teaching and discovered a passion for helping students who need extra support in reading, writing and math. Today, she teaches full-time while completing an alternative licensing program through Utah State University. “These kids are amazing. Many are learning to speak English, they’re helping their families in very adult ways and they may have a hard time learning things because they’ve got a learning disability; they keep dealing with harder things every single day than most of us ever deal with,” she said.
Brooke Christensen is a teacher at Copperview Elementary by day and is a city councilmember by night. (Julie Slama/ City Journals)
Students benefit from her city council experience as she expands upon the local government curriculum to help their understanding. Understanding her students’ diverse backgrounds and the challenges many families face provides a perspective she brings directly to City Hall, which informs her decisions about housing, services and community needs. Balancing two demanding careers requires sacrifice. Christensen manages city council responsibilities, teaching, graduate coursework and family life through careful organization. “Everything goes on my calendar. If it’s not on my calendar, it’s not real,” she said. Stroud, who raised her children in Sandy, has dedicated 19 years teaching at East Sandy Elementary and is now in her seventh year on the city council. “I have a strong pull, rooted in public service, from joining the military at 17 years old, to wanting to be a teacher, to serving our community,” she said.
She believes the two roles strengthen one another. “It helps me because the things we look at with city council, it impacts the students the most,” Stroud said. “I’m midlife at this point, so the decisions I make are for them; it’s the rest of their life if they stay living here.” That perspective influences how she teaches. Each year, Stroud brings East Sandy’s third graders to Sandy City Hall, where students participate in activities modeled after real council decisions. One exercise she leads asks them to choose between funding a new fire truck or building an all-abilities playground, explaining the pros and cons of both choices. Students discuss competing priorities, debate their positions and learn how elected officials make difficult budget decisions. The lesson not only helps students understand local government, but also persuasion, critical thinking and civic engagement. “After they decide, I can speak for three minutes and often, can change their minds I let them know I am one person and they, too, can be that influential. It’s a powerful lesson. They learn they need to speak up and be part of their community,” she said. Both educators use skills developed in local government to strengthen their classrooms. Stroud said being on the council has reinforced the importance of listening to different viewpoints. “I teach students to respect others’ opinions and differing perspectives,” she said. She guides students to voice their position. Then, they learn to explain their reasoning, consider opposing views and engage in respectful discussion. In the classroom, both Christensen and Stroud help students develop confidence, reasoning skills and a stronger understanding of their community. At City Hall, they bring the voices and experiences of local families into the decision-making process. Both women say the connection between teaching and public service is about investing in the future. “Today’s learner is tomorrow’s leader,” Stroud said. l
The case of the missing axolotl Midvalley Elementary students crack the math mystery. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
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idvalley Elementary’s Math Night unfolded as a schoolwide “Whodunit,” transforming math skills into a live-action mystery. The missing axolotl set the stage, sending students and their families throughout the school as detectives collecting cluses. Each stop blended curriculum with curiosity as numbers, riddles and logic puzzles narrowed down a list of suspects and engaged children and parents to work side by side. “The kids don’t know where the axolotl disappeared to or why, so as they solve math activities, they may get a clue,” said Crystal Bartlett, Midvalley’s community school facilitator. Families lined up waiting for the doors to open to solve the mystery. Among them was Mark Weiss and his first-grade daughter, Lily. “She was excited and wants to figure out who took it,” he said. “I hope she finds fun ways to practice her addition and subtraction.”
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Other families echoed that excitement. Parent Corinne Valderrama said her firstgrader, Ash, was anxious to return to school. “He was talking all about it, waiting to come back,” she said, adding the event creates a good sense of community. Ash said when his class took a vote ahead of time, reviewing all the suspects’ photos, he thought “Miss Sarah” took it. “She looked the most guilty in her picture,” he said. “I like math. I quiz my dad and he quizzes me. Today, I had him do 54 x 96 and I checked him on the calculator.” In the cafeteria, the Andersons, fifthgrader Sadie, third-grader Colen and dad Eliott, were sitting amongst several families solving puzzles to eliminate suspects. “I like mysteries; this is fun,” Sadie said. Nearby was extended learning facilitator Brent Hillman, who helped students solve the math challenges. “This is great to take math and turn it into a game,” he said. “It makes learning fun.” However, Hillman was soon interrupted by a student who questioned him as the one who took the axolotl. “Don’t you know you’re innocent until proven guilty?” he asked the student. The student replied: “But you’re
Families worked together to solve math challenges and get clues to solve the mystery of the missing axolotl at Midvalley Elementary. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
suspicious — the way you look, the way you talk. I’m finding out why.” Whether that student proved his theory is unknown, but as students worked through clues and narrowed down the suspects, it
turns out he was right. “Mr. Brent had taken the axolotl for ‘training’ ahead of the Axolotl Olympics,” Bartlett said. “Our entire school turned into detectives to solve the math mystery.”l
Midvale City Journal
Midvale removes drought fee on low water users The drought surcharge will remain for residents who use more than 12,000 gallons of water per month. By Giovanni Radtke g.radtke@mycityjournals.com
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idvale lawmakers removed an increased fee for residents who use less than 12,000 gallons of water per month, as the city remains in a severe drought. Water consumption fees increased by 25% on May 1 to promote conservation in the summer months. The city council removed the drought surcharge on low- to moderate-water users on May 19. The increased rate will apply to residents who exceed the 12,000-gallon threshold. Low-end users would still pay $1.95 per 1,000 gallons consumed, in addition to the monthly base rate of $30. Mayor Dustin Gettel said the decision to remove the increase on low-end water use came after feedback from residents. “We want to encourage people at every level to conserve water,” the mayor said in
his report to the council on May 2. “We live in a desert. We’re in a level 2 severe drought. However, the bill for the person who has 5,000 gallons of water, and there’s really nothing that person can do to conserve. They don’t do any outdoor watering. We don’t think it’s … necessarily fair to penalize those people when it’s the outdoor watering that we are really targeting.” A level 2 severe drought designation issued by the Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District, Midvale’s main water supplier, requires member cities to reduce water use by 10%. Limiting outdoor watering is the city’s main focus because it accounts for about 60% of Midvale’s summer water use. Officials recommend that residents limit outdoor watering to two times per day, skip at least one day in their weekly watering schedule, and prioritize watering trees and plants over lawns. Midvale residents’ water bills fall into one of two billing cycles: either on the 15th of each month or at the end of the month. The revised fee schedule will stay in effect until Oct. 15 and Sept. 30, respectively. l
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Picnic On The Lawn Monday, August 24, 6-8 p.m. Murray Museum, 4872 Poplar St Dine And Dance – Swing Dance Friday, August 28, 6-8 p.m. Murray Armory, 246 E Myrtle Ave Get To The River - River Fest Saturday, September 12, 12-2 p.m. Winchester Park, 1250 W Winchester St. Dine And Dance – Silent Disco Friday, September 25, 6-8 p.m. Murray Armory, 246 Myrtle Ave
MURRAY FUN DAYS
Saturday, July 4, 2026 Annual Chalk Art Contest (Pre-Register) 6 a.m.–2 p.m. Murray Armory, 246 Myrtle Ave Annual Plein Air Painting Contest 6:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Murray Armory, 246 Myrtle Ave Sunrise Service, 7 a.m. Murray Amphitheater, 495 5300 S Rotary Club Community Breakfast 6:30-10 a.m., Murray Park Pavilion #5 Entry Fee Required Races 5k Race, 8 a.m. Children’s Race (Ages 4-9), 9 a.m. Both Races Near Constitution Circle Parade, 8:30 a.m. Fashion Place To Murray Park Daytime Entertainment Heber Matute, 11:00 a.m. Flashback Brothers, 12:30 p.m. Murray Park Gazebo Evening Entertainment Hartley Road, 8:30 p.m. Firework Display, 10:00 p.m. Murray Park Softball Field For full list of activites and updates visit the qr code
JULY-SEPT s t n e v E
AMPHITHEATER For more show details & tickets, visit the qr code
Pirates Of Penzance August 7, 8, 10, 13, 14, 15, 8 p.m. Ronstadt Revival Saturday, September 5, 7 p.m. Always Tina: The Tribute To Tina Turner Saturday, September 12, 7 p.m. End Of The Line: Allman Brother Tribute Saturday, September 26, 7 p.m.
LUNCH CONCERTS
FREE, Murray Park Pavilion 5, 296 E Murray Park Ave Lonesome Folk July 7, 12 p.m. Rocksimile July 14, 12 p.m. Enny 1 July 21, 12 p.m. Craig Mecham July 28, 12 p.m.
THURSDAY MATINEES
FREE, Murray Park Pavilion 5, 296 E Murray Park Ave Patriotic Ensemble - Music July 2, 2 p.m. Ballet Center Inc - Dance July 9, 2 p.m. Paul Brewer - Magician July 16, 2 p.m. Angel Martinez - Music July 23, 2 p.m. Trash Panda – Drumming July 30, 2 p.m.
FAMILY NIGHT CONCERTS
FREE, Murray Senior Center, 10 E 6150 S Susie Brown July 13, 7 p.m. Pop-O-Gogo 60’S Band Aug 10, 7 p.m. The Ironport Band Sept 14, 7 p.m. Starlight Quartet Oct 12, 7 p.m.
For more information, call 801-264-2614 or visit https://www.murray.utah.gov/213/Cultural-Arts Utah Department of Natural Resources’ weekly lawn watering guide for May 15. (Courtesy of Utah Department of Natural Resources)
MidvaleJournal.com
Sponsored by Murray City Cultural Arts, Murray Parks & Recreation, and Murray City Library. Murray Arts in the Park is supported with funding assistance by the residents of Salt Lake County, Salt Lake County Zoo, Arts, and Parks (ZAP), Utah Division of Arts and Museums, NowPlayingUtah.com, Utah Humanities and National Endowment for the Arts.
July 2026 | Page 9
Conceptual renderings of the east side (left) and west side (right) of JDH’s mixed-use development. (Courtesy of Midvale)
Mixed-use apartments put on hold by Midvale City Council JDH Development wants to build an apartment complex with ground retail near Midvale Center Station. By Giovanni Radtke g.radtke@mycityjournals.com
A
mixed-use housing development on the eastern side of Midvale Center Station has hit a roadblock. On June 2, Midvale City leaders tabled JDH Development’s request to rezone some 3.46 acres of its land to Transit Oriented Development Overlay. The developer needs the redesignation to construct an apartment complex lying atop ground retail.
The council wants to hash out a development agreement with JDH to ensure it will proceed with its planned amenities, including a spa and lap pool. “I like the concept in general,” Councilmember Bryant Brown said at the June meeting. “But we’ve had situations like … we approve a zone change or something, and then they just put grass there and not a lap pool.” JDH’s design proposal calls for two residential buildings centered on a courtyard along 52 West Center Street. The apartment enclave will consist of 144 dwellings arrayed with amenities and 8,000 square feet of retail floor space, according to the developer’s rezone application.
“Parking will be accommodated on a single level located behind the commercial frontage, allowing for an enhanced streetscape that prioritizes walkability and pedestrian interaction with retail,” the rezone application states. A representative for JDH told city lawmakers that parking will limit the buildings to four floors because constructing an underground parking lot is too costly. “You would have to dig,” the representative said. “And as anybody that knows that there’s just no financial incentive for us to dig down, for $50,000 a stall to go down.” Currently, the developer’s blueprint includes 242 parking stalls. That would meet
daily demand, but it falls 12 stalls short of TODO’s zoning requirements, according to a parking study by Hales Engineering. The engineering firm recommended providing 5% more parking than anticipated demands. “Based on this, a supply of 206 stalls should be provided for the residential component of the project … in addition to the 54 stalls required for the commercial use for a total of 260 stalls,” the study reads. The rental units would be listed at market prices. Brown said he would like the development agreement to require a lap pool. “It’s market rate, it’s gonna be high, and I would like to make sure it’s a nice place,” he said. l
Community clean energy program approved in Midvale Residents automatically enrolled in a utilities program that will make participants electricity net-zero emissions by 2030. By Giovanni Radtke g.radtke@mycityjournals.com
M
idvale residents will soon see a $4 surcharge on their electricity bill, now that they’ve automatically enrolled in a renewable energy program. City council approved the Community Clean Energy Program on June 2, which aims to make the electricity used by Rocky Mountain Power’s participating customers entirely renewable within the next few years. Midvale’s participation in the program is brokered by Utah Renewable Communities, a group of municipalities working to add more clean energy to Rocky Mountain’s grid. Mayor Dustin Gettel represents Midvale on the local agency’s board. “By investing in clean energy, the Utah Renewable Communities will help meet Utah’s growing energy needs while keeping power reliable and our air cleaner for generations,” the mayor said. The $4 increase will take effect in early 2027. Residents may opt-out without
Page 10 | July 2026
Phases of the Community Clean Energy Program. (Courtesy of Midvale City)
a termination fee if they cancel within six months of receiving notification from Rocky Mountain. Eligible low-income customers can have the fee waived through the utility company’s Home Electric Lifeline Program. “The low-income program is very key to the success of this program,” Gettel said in May. “We don’t want people to not participate just because they don’t have an additional $4 a month to put towards their bill.” The renewable energy program, now seven years in the making, was officially approved by the Utah Public Service Commission in March. The program’s goal is to develop enough clean energy to make
participants’ electricity net-zero emissions by 2030. “Utah is facing some pretty dire ecological forecasts, and this is a tool that we can offer as long as it remains affordable and accessible,” Councilmember Heidi Robinson said in May. “… I think these are things that we as a city really need to consider providing with the limited resources we have.” The fixed fee on a resident’s electricity bill will fund clean energy projects, and the surcharge will likely be lowered in two years once start-up costs are covered, according to the public service commission’s approval order. “I don’t know if it’s a catch-22 or not,
but those who choose to not participate in the program are going to choose to not participate at a rate that is higher than what the rate will likely be in the future,” Gettel said. “... Right now there’s not a really good method laid out for people who opt-out to opt back in, but that’s something I plan to work on as a board member.” Gettel added that people opting out “would not reduce the effectiveness of the program. It would just reduce its scale.” At a May 19 meeting, Councilmember Paul Glover said that, while he supports clean energy, he does not like that Midvale residents will automatically be enrolled in the program. “This should be a choice, and if it’s opt-out, to me, that’s not as good a choice,” Glover said. “If you have such a good program, I should want to opt-in.” Councilmember Denece Mikolash later replied that she has received only positive feedback from constituents on the program and “if we’re listening to our residents, I think the majority want us to participate.” “I’ve been in marketing for 20-too-long [years] and it doesn’t matter if you opt-in or opt-out, it’s all about communication,” Mikolash said. “It’s getting them out there, educating them … letting them know it’s happening.” l
Midvale City Journal
In The Middle of Everything City Hall – 7505 South Holden Street • Midvale, UT 84047
JULY 2026 CITY NEWSLETTER
Midvale Monthly with Mayor Gettel Power to Choose: Midvale Joins Community Push for Clean Energy MIDVALE CITY DIRECTORY City Hall ...................................................801-567-7200 Finance/Utilities ...................................801-567-7200 Court ........................................................801-567-7265 City Attorney’s Office .........................801-567-7250 City Recorder/Human Resources ...801-567-7228 Community Development ...............801-567-7211 Public Works ..........................................801-567-7235 Ace Disposal/Recycling .....................801-363-9995 Midvale Historical Museum .............801-567-7285 Midvale Senior Center .......................385-468-3350 SL County Animal Services ..............385-468-7387 Communications .................................801-567-7230
MIDVALE CITY ELECTED OFFICIALS Mayor - Dustin Gettel Email: Dgettel@midvaleut.gov CITY COUNCIL District 1 - Bonnie Billings Email: Bbillings@midvaleut.gov District 2 - Paul Glover Email: Pglover@midvaleut.gov District 3 - Heidi Robinson Email: Hrobinson@midvaleut.gov District 4 - Bryant Brown Email: Bbrown@midvaleut.gov District 5 - Denece Mikolash Email: Dmikolash@midvaleut.gov
WHO TO CALL FOR… Water Bills ...............................................801-567-7200 Ordering A New Trash Can ...............801-567-7202 Permits ....................................................801-567-7214 Court ........................................................801-567-7265 Paying For Traffic School ...................801-567-7202 Business Licensing ............................. 801-567-7213 Cemetery ................................................801-567-7235 Planning and Zoning .........................801-567-7238 Code Enforcement ..............................801-567-7208 Building Inspections...........................801-567-7214 Graffiti .....................................................385-468-9769
PUBLIC SAFETY & EMERGENCY CONTACTS EMERGENCY .............................................................. 911 Police Dispatch .....................................801-840-4000 Fire Dispatch .........................................801-940-4000 Unified Police Department > Midvale Precinct .............................385-468-9350 Public Works ..........................................801-567-7235 Rocky Mountain Power .....................877-508-5088
Midvale City became the 16th community statewide to formally adopt the Community Clean Energy Program on June 2, 2026, when our city council voted unanimously to join the Utah Renewable Communities (URC) initiative. The program is designed to bring net-100% clean, renewable electricity to the grid by giving Rocky Mountain Power (RMP) customers in participating communities the option to fund new, large-scale clean energy projects directly through their monthly utility bill. It’s the only program in Utah that offers residents real, tangible clean energy choices while channeling their contributions into actual new renewable infrastructure, rather than simply offsetting existing power sources on paper. Once the program is launched, residential customers in Midvale will see a flat $4 monthly surcharge added to their Rocky Mountain Power bill. Customers won’t need to take any action to enroll, since the program works on an opt-out basis. Anyone who decides participation isn’t right for them will have a six-month, fee-free window to opt out after receiving notice. After the window closes, residents who later choose to leave the program will be charged a one-time $30 termination fee. The opt-out process itself is designed to be simple, and customers can expect notices and instructions to begin going out starting in November 2026. Income-eligible residents won’t pay anything extra at all. Those enrolled in Rocky Mountain Power’s Home Electric Lifeline Program (HELP) will have the entire $4 monthly cost covered, ensuring the shift to cleaner energy doesn’t create a financial burden for households already managing tight budgets.
Midvale joins a diverse list of 16 member communities spanning cities and counties across Utah, from Salt Lake City, Park City, and Ogden to smaller towns like Springdale, Oakley, and Castle Valley, along with several unincorporated counties. Together, these communities represent a broad cross-section of the state, united by a shared commitment to expanding clean energy access. Perhaps the most promising part of the program is its long-term trajectory. As new solar, wind, and other clean energy projects come online and begin contributing meaningful kilowatt-hours to the local grid, the $4 surcharge has real potential to decrease over time, possibly down to $0, as the program’s costs are increasingly offset by the value of the energy it generates. Rocky Mountain Power will be sharing more details about the program over the next few months as the rollout continues. In the meantime, residents with questions are encouraged to reach out to me or their city council member.
In The Middle of Everything Midvale Harvest Days 2026: Step Into the Story Streets fill with floats, music, and cheering crowds as the community celebrates side by side.
For more than 80 years, Midvale Harvest Days has been the heartbeat of summer in our community, a week where tradition meets imagination, neighbors become friends, and every corner of the city feels a little more alive. In 2026, the Harvest Days Committee invites everyone into something even more magical: Wild imagination. Step into the story! From July 27 through August 1, Midvale transforms into a living storybook, where every event is a chapter, every street a setting, and every resident part of the narrative. Neighborhood Block Parties (Monday and Tuesday, July 27 & 28) The week opens with one of the most beloved traditions, neighborhood block parties. Streets turn into gathering places filled with laughter, shared meals, and new introductions. These evenings are simple in the best way: chairs pulled into driveways, kids riding bikes until sunset, and neighbors turning into friends. It’s where the story of Harvest Days begins, right where you live. Hall of Honors & Art Show (Wednesday, July 29) Midweek, we celebrate the people who help shape Midvale’s story through the Hall of Honors, presented by the Midvale Arts Council. This recognition honors individuals whose contributions have brought distinction to our community. The evening also features the Art Show, where creativity becomes community as local artists fill the space with color, texture, and imagination. Tyler Library Night (Thursday, July 30) At Tyler Library, the story takes a playful turn. Lawn games, board games, and hands-on activities turn the library into an interactive playground of imagination. It’s a night where curiosity leads the way and every visitor gets to create their own adventure. Concert in the Park (Friday, July 31) As the week builds toward the festival, music takes center stage. The Midvale Arts Council Concert in the Park, featuring Exit Strategy, brings the community together under the open sky for an evening of live music, blankets on the grass, and summer air. The Grand Finale: Harvest Days Festival (Saturday, August 1, 2026) Then comes Saturday, the day when the story fully comes alive. Midvale City Park opens at 3:00 p.m., but the day begins much earlier with the Fun Run and pancake breakfast at 7:00 a.m., followed by the parade at 9:00 a.m.
At the park, the festival unfolds into a full world of experiences: • Bingo, bounce houses, and carnival games • Food trucks and a vendor marketplace • Live music throughout the evening • Scales & Tails Shows • Kids Entrepreneur Market showcasing young innovators • Battle Zone • Activities with Unified Fire Authority and Unified Police Department This year’s festival adds even more excitement with the high-flying energy of the Flippenout Trampoline Show, bringing unexpected moments of wonder to every corner of the park. As the sun sets, the story reaches its final chapter with live concerts from Coherent State and James Romero y Los Amigos Three Generations, filling the night with music, dance, and celebration. And at 10:00 p.m., the sky itself joins the story. Fireworks close the week with a brilliant finale, color, sound, and light marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of the next. Step Into the Story Midvale Harvest Days is more than an event! It’s an experience built by the people who call this city home. It’s where imagination meets tradition, where every activity adds a new page, and where the community comes together to celebrate who we are.
MIDVALE . UTAH . GOV
JULY 2026 CITY NEWSLETTER MIDVALE . UTAH . GOV
Beyond the Weeds: Midvale’s Code Enforcement Explained Code Enforcement sounds like a uniform showing up with a tape measure telling you that your weeds are too tall. What Code Enforcement really is, is keeping your favorite restaurant clean, preventing your neighborhood from becoming a junkheap, and shutting down shady business operations. In short, Code Enforcement is health, safety, and quality of life. Lora Allgier is Midvale’s Code Compliance Officer. She is a Police Officer through Unified Police Department but works out of Midvale City Hall. “I care about Midvale and the people who call it home,” Allgier said. “I want them to feel safe and comfortable.” What is Code Compliance? City codes are local rules adopted by the City Council that help protect the community. They address issues that can impact neighborhoods, such as: • Overgrown weeds and vegetation • Accumulated junk or debris • Inoperable vehicles • Unsafe or deteriorating buildings • Illegal signs • Property maintenance concerns These standards help preserve property values, reduce health and safety hazards, and ensure neighborhoods remain enjoyable places to live. What else does a Code Enforcement Officer do? Business Safety & Licensing • Ensures businesses meet legal and safety requirements • Verifies licenses and permits • Enforces regulations for home-based businesses • Addresses illegal or unapproved signage Neighborhood Safety • Enforces property maintenance standards • Addresses unsafe or hazardous structures • Corrects unauthorized land use • Requires property owners to resolve violations What Happens if a Violation Isn’t Corrected? Once a code has been broken, Allgier will send a notice letter, with a deadline. If that deadline isn’t met, then anoth-
er notice is sent with a second deadline. “It takes time,” Allgier said. “People have time after a letter, then time after a follow-up. The process can take three to four months to bring people into compliance.” Of course, that depends on what the violation is. If it’s a dangerous business operation, then a stop-work order is issued. If it’s a weed or yard violation, the consequences may be different. If a violation continues after multiple notices and opportunities to correct it, the City may take additional enforcement steps as allowed by Midvale City Code and Utah law. These steps are designed to encourage compliance while ensuring that ongoing violations don’t negatively impact surrounding properties. In some situations, the City may perform the necessary work to correct the violation. If that happens, the costs incurred by the City may become the responsibility of the property owner. Those costs may be recorded as a lien against the property. A lien is not intended to be punitive. It is simply a legal mechanism that allows the City to recover the costs of work performed on behalf of a property owner. Fortunately, reaching that point is uncommon because most code compliance cases are resolved long before additional enforcement is necessary. Sometimes, what may seem like a violation may not be. For example, this year, a brown lawn. “If your yard looks beautiful and your neighbors doesn’t,” Allgier said, “it may simply reflect different watering habits. With the drought and people trying to conserve water, some residents are choosing to water less than they normally would.” We’re Here to Help Code Enforcement is a neighborhood and community support system, meant to help the community thrive and stay safe. “I would love for our community to think of us as a resource,” Midvale Precinct Police Chief April Morse said. “Things can snowball and get out of hand. Code Enforcement can be the communication to help you know how to help.” Code Enforcement is more than a notice on your door. It keeps your community safe, beautiful and a place to call home.
Keep Pets Safe During Utah’s Fireworks Season As Utah celebrates Independence Day on July 4 and Pioneer Day on July 24, Salt Lake County Animal Services is reminding pet owners to take extra precautions to keep their pets safe. Fireworks can be frightening for animals, and every year shelters see an increase in lost pets during fireworks season. Loud noises can cause even the calmest pets to panic and attempt to escape from homes, yards, or vehicles. Here are a few simple ways to help keep your pets safe: Make sure identification is current. Ensure your pet is wearing a collar with an ID tag and that their microchip information is up to date. Accurate contact information can make all the difference if your pet becomes lost. Keep pets indoors. Before fireworks begin, bring pets inside and make sure doors, windows, and gates are secure. Frightened pets have been known to break through screens, jump fences, and dig under gates while trying to escape loud noises. Create a safe space. Provide a quiet room where your pet can retreat. Close curtains or blinds, turn on a television or calming music, and offer favorite toys, treats, or food puzzles to help reduce stress. Exercise early. Take dogs for walks and outdoor activities earlier in the day before fireworks start. A well-exercised pet is often more relaxed during the evening. Leave pets at home. Fireworks displays and holiday gatherings can be overwhelming and stressful for animals. Pets are safest in a familiar indoor environment. Plan ahead for anxious pets. If your pet struggles with noise anxiety, speak with your veterinarian before the holiday to discuss options that may help keep them comfortable. If your pet becomes lost, contact your local animal control agency and area shelters as soon as possible. Community members who find stray pets can help by posting photos and location information on local lost-and-found pet resources and community groups. A little preparation can go a long way toward keeping pets safe and helping families enjoy both of Utah’s summer celebrations. For assistance with a lost pet, contact Animal Control Dispatch at 801-840-4000. Salt Lake County Animal Services is located at 511 W 3900 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84123. Questions? Call 385-468-7387 or email animal@saltlakecounty.gov.
Enhancing Public Safety Through Mental Health Support Not every 911 call is for a crime. Sometimes people are facing a mental health struggle, or need help with a family member in danger. Officers arrive to make sure everyone is safe. Elizabeth Garrity, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, stays to connect them with programs and services so it doesn’t have to happen to them again. “My commitment is providing more than just the immediate response,” Garrity said. “The whole idea is to provide those follow-up services, to connect community members with the resources they need to have long-term stability, long-term health.” “We bridge that gap and bring the empathetic and advocacy lens.” Garrity started in April this year and works at the Midvale Police Station. She responds with officers when she is in the office, or follows up with the person if she isn’t available when something happens.
She will get in touch with them in any way they need; face to face, over email, phone calls or texts. She’ll ask them questions like “Do you have insurance? Do you need a Medicaid application? If you are a parent, what support do you need? Do you need respite child care? A food bank?” Just like calling for the police, her help is free. “She’s incredible, we’re lucky to have her,” Midvale precinct chief April Morse said. “A social worker might reach them where officers can’t.” She bridges the gap between officers and the community. With her help, the officers are now receiving more mental health training to help them make decisions during crisis calls. These classes are on topics like intellectual disability, autism, substance use, and other mental health-related issues. Her presence in the police station also provides officers with
extra support. They can check with her about behavioral health questions before and after calls. “We want to expand our officers’ awareness,” Garrity said. “They’re never going to be clinicians, but they create safety for the person in the moment until I can respond with them.” Not every problem is best solved with a police officer. Many problems can be resolved with the right support, and Garrity is the first in Midvale to help residents find it. If you find yourself or your neighbor or family member in need, even before a crisis, reach out to the Midvale precinct and ask for Garrity. You don’t have to figure it out alone.
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Page 14 | July 2026
Midvale City Journal
City Journals presents:
recreation A publication covering outdoor recreation around the Salt Lake Valley
Take a walk on the wild side By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com Forest bathing is an invitation to fast-paced world.” The Japanese practice was created intentionally commune with nature. in the 1980s by doctors who noticed their If you’ve ever sat on the front porch to patients were experiencing burnout. They watch a sunset, enjoyed a cup of tea in the developed a prescription involving nature backyard or walked through a park to look connection that research has shown to offer mental and physical benefits. at the trees, you’ve done forest bathing. Napper invites people to attend a Ian Napper is a mindful outdoor guide who leads forest bathing sessions, also forest bathing experience which he holds at known as shinrin-yoku. He said commu- places along the Wasatch Range, including nion with nature comes easily to most canyons, parks and Tracy Aviary. Each people and the mental health benefits are event is around 90 minutes and Napper encourages participants to restore their off the chart. “It literally means to bathe in the sense of wonder, awe and community. “I’m trying to help people reconnect nature of the forest,” he said. “It invites you to slow down, like really deeply slow to nature in a personal way,” he said. “As down. The more you slow down, the more humans, we’ve become very isolated, you notice and the more you notice, then partly because of technology, but we expethe more you slow down. It helps us return rience this and there’s a connection that to a more natural pace, which is one of happens and it reduces this loneliness.” As an Army veteran and yoga the many things we need in this hyper,
instructor, Napper understands the grounding benefits of engaging with the natural world. He said some of those benefits include reduced stress, lower blood pressure, better sleep, reduced fatigue, a sense of peace and a settled nervous system. He holds his forest bathing sessions in places with lots of big trees, preferably near running water and away from man-made noise, which can be jarring to the mind. He said listening to birds or the wind in the trees, allows the body to relax in a way we don’t usually experience. People will ask him, “Why should I pay you when I can walk in the mountains for free?” He explains it’s the difference between taking a yoga class online and immersing yourself in a live class led by a trained guide. “You get instruction. You learn things that you wouldn’t have known before, because you get guidance,” Napper
said. “I have a master’s in education with a focus on trauma, and so I bring a lot of that understanding into this. It’s one thing to talk about things that I notice, it’s another thing to guide you into a different way of being.” Napper said learning to calm the mind and pay attention in nature takes practice; it can also bring up anxiety or judgment around being still. But as the practice continues, participants find it easier to attain a level of calm, and they want to bring friends and family into the experience. Some people think having idle time to walk around in a forest is a frivolous luxury, but Napper said that’s not true, in fact it’s just the opposite. “It might feel luxurious to schedule some time to do nothing but you’re giving yourself permission to go out in nature and do nothing for a while. It’s not a luxury; it’s kind of a necessity.”
Ian Napper leads groups through forest bathing sessions in canyons and parks as a way to reduce stress and build connection. (Photos courtesy of Ian Napper)
MidvaleJournal.com
July 2026 | Page 15
Shifting gears: Utah enacts new e-bike rules By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com One new rule will see riders ages 8 micromobility,” Begay said. “Micromoto 15 needing to complete a state-ap- bility being battery powered vehicles, also known as scooters, e-bikes, e-moto, proved safety course. hoverboards and similar devices. We Whether climbing mountain trails, have seen the supply and demand grow commuting to work or cruising through exponentially.” According to Begay, improvements neighborhood streets, e-bikes are becoming an increasingly common part in battery technology, performance and of life in Utah. Their growing presence has affordability have transformed the market prompted lawmakers to adopt new regu- over the past decade. As demand increased, manufacturers lations aimed at balancing safety, access responded with a growing number of and the future of outdoor recreation. The law arrives at a time when the brands and product offerings. However, broader micromobility industry—which Begay noted that rapid growth has also includes e-bikes, electric scooters, e-mo- created new challenges. “This rapid development in the last torcycles and similar devices—has expedecade has largely been unregulated and rienced explosive growth nationwide. Jeremy Begay, an e-bike enthusiast it feels a bit like the Wild West,” he said. who works in the outdoor recreation “The list of issues we are facing ranges industry, said advances in technology from batteries being a fire hazard, trail and manufacturing have fueled much of access, the speed of these devices, and the race of manufacturers to create a that expansion. “There are several movements platform that is faster, better and cheaper nationwide in industry, retail and outdoor than its competitor,” Begay said. Utah’s new law seeks to address recreation when it comes to the world of some of those concerns by reinforcing the state’s existing three-class e-bike system while drawing a sharper line between electric bicycles and higher-powered electric motorcycles. Under the law, Class 1 e-bikes provide pedal assistance up to 20 miles per hour. Class 2 e-bikes may include a throttle and are limited to 20 miles per hour. Class 3 e-bikes provide pedal assistance up to 28 miles per hour and require a speedometer. Devices exceeding those limits may be classified differently under state law and could be subject to additional requirements. The legislation also establishes new age-based restrictions. Children younger than 8 years old are prohibited from operating e-bikes on public roads, sidewalks and trails. Riders younger than 14 must be supervised by a parent or guardian, while riders under 16 are prohibited from operating Class 3 e-bikes. Additionally, riders younger than 21 are now required to wear helmets while operating e-bikes or electric scooters on public roads. Beginning in 2027, Utah will also require riders ages 8 through 15 to complete a state-approved safety course or ride under direct adult supervision. For Begay, the new regulations represent a reasonable first step toward addressing safety concerns while preserving access to the benefits of micromobility. “The simple answer to this for me is Quick fact sheet on Utah’s new e-bike law. yes,” he said when asked whether the (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals) law strikes the right balance between
Page 16 | July 2026
E-bike enthusiast Jeremy Begay takes his bike for a spin. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals) safety and accessibility. “We need to start somewhere for the purpose of making people aware that micromobility devices are different, so that they can then educate themselves with how to interact with them.” Begay believes many consumers still lump all electric mobility products into a single category despite significant differences in performance and intended use. “The purist in me wants to see a difference in how e-moto and e-bike are treated,” he said. “Currently, people see these as one category.” Trail access remains one of the most debated issues within Utah’s outdoor recreation community. As electric bicycles become more common, land managers, municipalities and trail organizations continue to evaluate where different classes of e-bikes should be permitted. “This is still being debated, so there is a whole spectrum of opinions,” Begay said. He has observed changing attitudes among many outdoor recreation users. “I think people’s ideas about e-bikes are changing and more people are finding that these bikes allow for more people to ride,” he said. Begay noted that the popularity of e-bikes has expanded participation among older riders, individuals recovering from injuries and people who might otherwise be unable to enjoy cycling. “This new market of people who are riding are pushing access simply by riding,” he said. “Trails are becoming more crowded and municipalities are responding to trail demand by creating more trails and trails that are e-bike accessible.” State officials have cited increasing crash and injury reports involving younger riders as one reason for strengthening
regulations. Begay believes education remains one of the biggest challenges facing the industry. “Unfortunately, I have not seen changes in behavior with families yet,” he said. “With micromobility being somewhat new to the masses, there has not been enough education.” He said many consumers still view electric mobility devices as toys rather than transportation equipment capable of reaching significant speeds. “Most people categorize these devices as children’s toys or other light recreation devices,” Begay said. “This leads to people not enforcing rules of the road, helmet safety, product care and other best practices.” He hopes the new law will help raise awareness. “Hopefully, these laws will create more awareness to what people are purchasing,” he said. “Awareness and education lead to more responsible decisions.” Looking ahead, Begay believes Utah’s reputation as an outdoor recreation leader positions the state to influence future policy discussions nationwide. “Utah is known for its access to outdoor recreation,” he said. “Most of that comes from Utah being a model state in the way it approaches recreation.” While debate over trail access, safety standards and regulation is likely to continue, Begay remains optimistic about the future. “I think that Utah should be at the forefront of all of this because it would mean that everyone could benefit— riders, retailers and tourism,” he said. “I’m confident that we Utahns will find a place for micromobility devices to exist in all spaces.”
Midvale City Journal
Trading screen time for trail time: Why more families are heading outdoors this summer By Holly Curby | hello@hollycurby.com What are children missing when childhood and adolescence are critical periods of brain development. During the screens occupy more of their free time? middle school years, the brain undergoes With school out and long summer a process of strengthening frequently used days stretching ahead, families are looking pathways while pruning away those that are for ways to keep kids active, engaged and neglected. “If your kid is doing music and school healthy. For many parents, summer presents an opportunity to swap screen time for and sports, then those are the things that are trail time, replacing hours spent on phones, going to be strengthened,” she said. “But if tablets and video games with hiking, biking, your kid is sitting on the couch and playing video games, then those are the things that fishing and outdoor adventure. The challenge, however, is that tech- are being strengthened.” That reality has prompted some families nology has become deeply woven into children’s daily lives. Author and parenting to rethink how they spend their summers. expert Arlene Pellicane highlights just how Instead of defaulting to screens, parents dramatically technology use has increased are intentionally creating opportunities for among young people. She notes that smart- outdoor adventure. Whether it’s hiking a local phone ownership among teens surged from trail, exploring one of our many national park, 41% in 2012 to 89% by 2018. During that paddling a lake, fishing, mountain biking or same period, the percentage of teens using simply walking the neighborhood, outdoor social media multiple times a day rose from recreation provides something screens cannot: direct engagement with the world. 34% to 70%. Research has long connected outdoor For many parents, those numbers raise an important question: What are children activity with improved physical health, better missing when screens occupy more of their sleep and stronger social skills. Pellicane free time? According to Pellicane, one of the emphasized that children benefit from faceearliest warning signs of excessive screen to-face interaction and experiences that use is a loss of interest in real-world activities. require movement, communication and “If your child used to love playing soccer, but problem-solving. “In the absence of elecnow it’s like, ‘I’d rather just stay home,’ and tronics, guess what? They’ll go out and play, you know they’re gaming instead, that’s a they’ll go build, they’ll do different things,” she said. red flag,” she said. Some families are taking that advice Outdoor recreation advocates say that observation reflects a larger trend. Activi- literally. Pellicane described implementing ties that once happened naturally such as what she calls a “digital Sabbath,” a recurpickup games at the park, bike rides with ring period when screens are set aside and friends, neighborhood exploration and family other activities take center stage. “It could be hikes, now compete with endless digital Sunday afternoon where everyone’s offline and you go to the park instead,” she said. “A entertainment. The consequences extend beyond rhythm of forcibly getting off is helpful.” For outdoor enthusiasts, that idea resophysical activity. Pellicane explained that nates. Recreation experts often point out that children do not need elaborate adventures to benefit from time outside. A picnic, an afternoon of kayaking, a game of Ultimate Frisbee, an evening bike ride or a visit to a local trail can help families reconnect without the distractions of phones and social media. Parents may also find comfort in knowing they are not alone. While social media can create pressure to stay constantly connected, Pellicane argues that meaningful relationships are built through real-life experiences. “I’d rather have one person in real life say, ‘You’re a good person, and I’m glad you’re in my life,’ than have all these followers,” she said. As summer unfolds, families have a unique opportunity to create memories that don’t require Wi-Fi or a charging cable. Whether it’s introducing a child to their first hiking trail, teaching them how to cast a fishing line, or simply spending The best part of hiking isn’t always the destimore evenings outdoors together, these nation, it’s everything you discover along the experiences can help build confidence, way. (Courtesy Holly Curby)
MidvaleJournal.com
Whether casting for the first time or continuing a longtime tradition, anglers find recreation, relaxation and connection on the water. (Courtesy Holly Curby)
Paddleboarding provides time outdoors, enjoyment of scenery and creates lasting memories together. (Courtesy Holly Curby)
strengthen relationships and encourage healthy habits that last well beyond the summer months. For more insights on helping children develop a healthy relationship with technology while making room for real-world experiences, listen to the full interview
with Arlene Pellicane on Holly’s Highlights Podcast, Season 2, Episode 29 available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and at www.HollyCurby.com. Her practical advice offers valuable guidance for parents seeking to raise healthy, connected kids and perhaps spend a little more time outdoors along the way.
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From Utah to the world stage
Several local robotics teams took part at the FIRST world championships after competing in Utah qualifier. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
A
cademy of Math, Engineering and Science senior Bryce Holland competed at the FIRST Robotics World Championship alongside his teammates, culminating years of learning, problem-solving and perseverance. “We did pretty well,” Holland said. “It was my first time there, so it was really fun.” The Houston-based championship brought together about 600 of the best robotics teams from around the world. For AMES, qualifying for the event was a significant achievement. The school attended the championship by earning a spot through the Utah Regional qualifying competition. AMES, and other teams, spent weeks building and refining robots to compete in a challenge. Success requires not only engineering and programming expertise, but also teamwork, strategy and thinking under pressure. There also are business and outreach components. At the world championship, the Murray charter school faced a sensor issue. Mechanical breakdowns are a frequent occurrence many robotics teams encounter throughout the season. “We had a few issues on some of our matches. Our gyro came unplugged, which was kind of tragic, but for the most part, we had it working consistently,” Holland said. As programming lead, he helped improve the team’s reliability by introducing simulation technology that allowed
students to test software first. “Basically, the software was bulletproof before the robot was ever built and that was incredible, super helpful,” he said. The world championship also gave students the opportunity to interact with teams across the globe. While AMES handled most repairs independently, cooperation with teams they were paired with remained an important part of the experience. “Most of our communication with other teams was strategizing before the match, figuring out what we’re going to do and how we’re going to work together,” he said. Utah teams performed well at the championship. Holland said West High’s team advanced to the Einstein round, which featured the top alliances from each division. “That’s the best a Utah team has ever done; it was cool to see,” he said. Waterford School’s robotic team also competed at the world championships after qualifying at the Arizona contest. Junior Leo Duggirala said robotics experience taught him valuable engineering skills and resiliency despite testing the robot for weeks before competing. “A lot of things still can go wrong in a competition; it requires us to quickly think through it and come up with a solution,” he said. Classmate junior Nitya Sunkara said collaboration was key to the Sandy private school’s success. “It is definitely teamwork makes the dream work,” said Sunkara, who wants to study electrical engineering. “When we get mad at each other, we can’t accomplish anything. But when we’re chill about it, we get a lot more done.” Corner Canyon Charger Robotics from Draper didn’t advance to the world championships even after being selected as one of the teams in the finals at the Utah qualifier, but senior
A couple of Hillcrest High students and their adviser, Clief Castleton, pose in their pit at the end of the Utah regional qualifier. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Jefferson Nelson valued his robotics experience. “When I was a sophomore, I joined robotics because it sounded fun, and I want to be an aerospace engineer,” he said. “I’ve learned a lot of valuable skills with robotics, but also with communication and teamwork. Robotics has become a good home and community for me.” l
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Students of all abilities danced together at Canyons School District’s third annual unified prom. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Prom is possible for all
An inclusive dance ensures every student can experience excitement and traditions. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
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or many high school students, prom is a night to remember. In Canyons School District, the unified prom ensures that memory belongs to everyone. The third annual event brings together students of all abilities for an evening centered on friendship, inclusion and fun. Leading up to the dance, many students will ask their dates to attend with posters and participate in a pre-dance activity. “For the unified prom, we make sure all the kids who want to go have dates, and before the dance, our school goes to the arcade together,” Hillcrest High senior Abbi Clark said. “We take a lot of pictures, dance, have dinner together — it’s a fun night.” Unlike traditional school dances, the unified prom, which was held at The Ballard in Draper, is designed with all students’ needs in mind. “The music is a lot quieter; we can step outside to play cornhole or see the amazing view from the deck. It helps make the unified prom a great event for everyone,” she said, adding there are quieter rooms with activities for students who may become overstimulated. Corner Canyon High students take on the planning and organization of the event, but they extend the dance to all district high
MidvaleJournal.com
Students traditionally asked one another to the unified prom, where they danced and had dinner together. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
schools. After high school, many students will attend Life Skills Academy together. “Our students get really excited about it,” Hillcrest High teacher Rebecca Remy said. “They see familiar faces from other schools’ unified sports teams so it’s fun for them to dance and socialize together.” Hillcrest junior Yadiel Rodriguez Jr. likes the evening’s dancing and playing at the arcade.“It’s all fun,” he said. “I’m with my friends.”l
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Canyons School District’s middle school unified soccer tournament scores big for building confidence, teamwork and connection.
Celebrating inclusion through soccer
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
“I
like helping my team and playing united,” Eastmont Middle School sixth-grader Ari Boye said during the Canyons School District’s recent unified soccer tournament. “I like working together to score and cheering with teammates; it makes me feel good.” The sense of joy and connection defined the event as middle schools came together in the tournament that placed special education students and their peers side by side on the pitch. The day emphasized inclusion, teamwork and connection through soccer. Ari said he’s learned to be positive on the field and strives to find a balance between competition and sportsmanship. “Don’t get mad, be nice even if you lose and maybe you’ll win next time,” he said. That message was evident in every match as students worked together, passed the ball and celebrated goals regardless of school affiliation. Coaches and administrators said the unified format creates opportunities that go beyond athletics. Butler Middle School Assistant Principal
At Canyons School District’s middle school unified soccer tournament, Butler controls the ball in a game against Midvale. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Scott Dwyer noted the positive impact before the games began. “It builds their confidence where they want to try things,” he said. “They’re saying, ‘I can do this.’” Butler student Edwardo Obediente Pedreanez has learned new skills. “I’m able to dribble and pass better, and I’ve made some new friends playing,” he said. His teammate Zien Al Azzani was thrilled to have taken shots on goal: “I’ve scored today.” Albion student Dash Johnson also was excited to have scored goals at the tournament. Those moments of growth and passion are part of unified sports. As Union Middle coach Jeremy Wright said simply, “I love the
kids’ enthusiasm.” Eastmont Middle coach Mark Snow emphasized the importance of fun and connection to his team. “Hopefully, they’ve learned how to be a good teammate and they’re having fun,” he said. “I also want them to know we can do hard things.” Union seventh-grader Damian Estrada said his coach taught him to be a good teammate: “I try to encourage them and cheer even for the attempts. I want them to keep trying.” Draper Park coach Juli Riches, who appreciates the equal access of sports for all students, said it results in kindness. “We’re seeing how the kids are being
kind to one another,” she said. “They’re accepting one another.” Draper Park’s PE teacher Ben Hulin added they learn from one another: “It’s a cool way for peer tutors to learn from the special education students and from the students to learn from them. There’s teamwork in that as well.” At Midvale Middle, coach Katelyn Parry said it has developed into something more. “After practice, the kids will go have lunch together and play together, which is really cool to see,” she said. “We’ve become more of an inclusive community.” Midvale Middle sixth-grade student Abby Pendrey agrees: “I’ve made friends; we play together and have fun. We do things at school together. That makes me happy.” Eighth-grader Ty Larsen has helped his peers both on the field and in the classrooms at Draper Park. “On the soccer field, I let them have the ball, because it’s for the kids; it’s not for us,” he said. “I like going to class together. They make me have a smile on my face every day.” At the end of the tournament, it was more of a celebration of a shared experience where goals were celebrated, friendships were formed and confidence grew on every field. “I love the unified environment,” Albion parent Kim Wedlick said. “It gives all students a moment to lead and shine.” l
Teachers show resiliency, find adventure at Zion Ragnar Relay
Sunrise, Silver Mesa teachers recently tested themselves on the rugged Southern Utah trails during an overnight race. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
W
hile some people were relaxing on Mother’s Day weekend, a group of educators were somewhere in the dusty hills outside of Zion National Park, running in the dark of night, trying not to get lost on the trails. Current and former teachers from Sunrise and Silver Mesa elementaries teamed up with others to tackle the Zion Ragnar Trail relay, an overnight race featuring steep climbs, desert heat and miles of winding trails. Despite the challenge, the team approached the race with humor, teamwork and what Sunrise kindergarten teacher Grace Cobabe described as “positive vibes.” Cobabe ran on the team with other Sunrise teachers Sara Allen and Natalie Scott; former Sunrise teacher Kelly Harp, now an educator in Davis County School District; and Silver Mesa teacher Natalie Wilkinson. They were joined by Scott’s husband, Alex Smith, and his co-worker, Luke Rowley, and Rowley’s wife, Emily. “Natalie texted us and asked us if we wanted to run the Ragnar and I said, ‘Heck, yeah,’” Allen remembered.
Page 20 | July 2026
They ran together under the team name, “Ships of Feetsius,” a running pun inspired by the philosophical “Ship of Theseus” paradox. While the name was clever, the race itself was no joke. Each runner completed three separate legs over the course. Allen recalled a 7.5-mile stretch with 600 feet of elevation gain as well as two steep 4-mile sections; one of which she described as “gnarly.” Runners passed off a race bib on each leg at the central camp at Ponderosa Ranch. Between runs, teammates tried to sleep in tents while alarms constantly went off through the night. “It was a good race. We only had one air mattress malfunction so only one of us had to sleep on the ground, only one tent pole broke and no one got sick or hurt,” Allen recounted. Smith was the team’s unofficial logistics director. “He made a whole spreadsheet of how we were to run the race. He was detail-oriented and took charge,” Allen said. The race wasn’t exactly a “walk in the park.” Several runners on the team accidentally added extra mileage after taking wrong turns on poorly marked trails. “When I was running up this hill, there was another runner coming down the trail and I thought, ‘Oh loser’ because he went the wrong way. Then I realized I was on the wrong trail and did the same thing,” she laughed. Runners tackled the trails with headlamps,
Team, “Ships of Feetsius,” including current and former Sunrise and Silver Mesa teachers, recently ran the grueling Zion Ragnar Trail relay. (Photo courtesy of Sara Allen)
flashlights and water bottles since the race was cup-free. Temperatures hovered around 85 degrees during the day, with no shade from the desert sun. Cobabe said she found relief and beauty in her night run. “Honestly, the prettiest part was at night. I turned off my headlamp and looked up at the stars,” she said. “Stars filled the horizon; it was so beautiful.” Cobabe, who now is training for a marathon in September, said she’d do it again — “It’s thrilling to prove to myself I can do hard things” — but next time, she’d train properly.
“I only ran maybe up to 3 miles before this,” she said. Allen, who ran the same race in 2017, said she also was “winging it,” but added that Harp had been doing 11-mile training runs and won a sprint triathlon for her age group the following weekend. Back at Sunrise, the race became an accomplishment that was shared. As the runners wore their race shirts to school, students checked out their medals and became inspired as well. “I always feel better after a run,” Allen said. “I have more energy and I’m a happier person — even after this race.” l
Midvale City Journal
Jordan Valley and Bella Vista students work together on an inclusive and interlocking piece of art. (Photo courtesy of Jonathan Hale)
Building belonging
Students connected through art, recess and teamwork during a special inclusion day at Jordan Valley. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
I
t was a day of art, friendship and inclusion — the first of its kind. Jordan Valley School students recently welcomed Bella Vista fourth graders for a collaborative art project, which marked the first time a neighborhood school came to the special needs school for an inclusive activity, said Principal Matt Nelson. The partnership between the two schools began three years ago, when Jordan Valley Beverley Taylor Sorenson teacher Jonathan Hale created an inclusive arts program that brought Jordan Valley students to Bella Vista. This year, Bella Vista students became increasingly curious about Jordan Valley. After a virtual tour of the campus, they hoped to visit in person. “We really built a connection with them,” Hale said. “Even the students who didn’t go to
Bella Vista felt at home and the Bella Vista kids were like, ‘we know how to do this’ and just befriended them.” For almost three hours, student from both schools spent time together creating art, eating lunch and playing at recess. They also teamed up for bocce ball as part of Jordan Valley’s Special Olympics activities. In the school’s cafeteria, students worked in small groups creating the art piece. Using paint, rubber stamps, collage materials and airbrushes, the teams connected puzzleshaped pieces representing self-expression and unity. Each student contributed personal touches while finding ways to connect their artwork with the larger group design. Hale said watching the students interact naturally was one of the most meaningful parts of the day. “When I saw those kids at recess, I knew they are friends,” he said. “There’s a sense of belonging.” Next fall, Jordan Valley plans to continue its inclusion programming with Ridgecrest and Willow Springs elementaries and expand to Copperview Elementary and Union Middle School. l
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A
A more perfect union of hearts and principles
s our nation celebrates America 250, it’s worth asking what it really means to be a citizen of the United States. The Constitution is built on a simple but powerful idea: people should be free—free to speak, believe, assemble, act and worship. It protects our ability to make choices, even when others disagree. That freedom is not accidental. The framers also separated power— legislative, executive and judicial— because they understood something deeply human: we are imperfect. Unchecked power tends to be abused. So they built guardrails, not around perfect people, but around real ones. The Constitution itself was born from compromise. Large states and small states. Different economies. Competing interests. Deep disagreements. The founders didn’t eliminate those differences—they worked through them. Today, compromise is often dismissed as weakness. But peacemaking is not weakness—it is strength. We often talk about politics as two opposing sides, but that oversimplifies reality. Within each party are a wide range of ideas and perspectives. You will never find a leader—or a neighbor—you agree with 100% of the time. And that’s OK.
Aimee Winder Newton
Salt Lake County Councilmember District 3
Scholar Yuval Levin, in American Covenant, puts it this way: the Constitution answers a central question—how can we act together when we don’t think alike? His answer is not uniformity, but cooperation. The system works by requiring negotiation, bargaining and coalition-building. I see this firsthand in my role in county government. Our council includes members from both parties in nearly equal numbers. When we work together, outcomes improve. When we dig in and fight, progress stalls. The system works best when leaders work with each other—not against each other. Congress was designed with this same purpose in mind: to force opposing sides to negotiate and find common ground. The frustration many feel with today’s political climate is not because the Constitution has
failed, but because we are drifting away from how it was meant to function. Instead of persuasion, we often see performance. Cable news and social media reward outrage, not understanding. The more inflammatory the message, the more attention it gets. The more attention it gets, the more it spreads. And the more it spreads, the more it shapes our perception of reality. When we “like,” share and financially support politicians who attack, vilify or refuse to work with others, we are reinforcing the very behavior we say we dislike. We are, in effect, incentivizing division. Peacemaking, by contrast, is quieter. It requires listening, humility and a willingness to move forward together. It does not mean abandoning truth. It means recognizing that in a diverse society, progress often requires cooperation. Without compromise, we don’t get purity—we get paralysis. Yet today, there is enormous pressure to divide into “us versus them.” Instead of seeing neighbors, we see opponents. Instead of truth, we see spin. Instead of compromise, absolutism. Instead of charity, contempt. We can change that—but it starts with us. First, be principled, not tribal. Care more about what is right than who is right. Second, seek truth. Be thoughtful about
what you believe and share. If your news diet is dominated by one outlet—or your social media feed is filled with outrage—it will shape how you see the world. These platforms profit from strong emotional reactions. Don’t reward that model with your attention. Third, speak with civility. You can disagree without being disagreeable. Fourth, work with others—even those you don’t fully agree with. Relationships matter more than winning an argument. Fifth, participate. Vote, engage and serve. Too often, only the loudest and most extreme voices are heard. And finally, lead with charity. Remember that every person you disagree with is still worthy of respect. The Constitution can only do so much. It creates a framework, protects rights and structures power. But it cannot make people virtuous. That responsibility belongs to us. We live in a time of division—but also a time of opportunity. An opportunity to be better citizens. To use our agency wisely. To defend freedom with responsibility. To build unity without demanding uniformity. If we do that, we won’t just strengthen our nation—we will help create a more perfect union of hearts and principles.
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Midvale City Journal
I
had my first glass of water at the age of 27. I was at my doctor’s office for a physical and he asked how much water I was drinking. The answer was zero, but I thought it was a trick question. I hedged my bet and said, “Um, two?” “Two what?” he asked. “Two waters?” “Give me a measurement.” “Tablespoons?” He sighed and told me I was dehydrated. Looking back, that makes sense because I hadn’t had a glass of water in more than a quarter-century. Growing up, we drank four things: Kool-Aid, orange juice, milk and soda. Even our ice cubes were made from Kool-Aid. I never remember going to the faucet to get a glass of water. We used the faucet to fill up water balloons. On the weekends, I’d ride my bike 40 miles, play two games of basketball, hike Mt. Timpanogos and play at the park until it was dark, and I never, ever stopped for a glass of water. If I got thirsty, I’d swing by 7-Eleven to grab a Fresca and a pack of candy cigarettes. We didn’t carry expensive, gallonsized, bedazzled Stanley cups where we could sip cucumber-infused, artisan well
MidvaleJournal.com
A tall drink of water Peri Kinder Life and Laughter
water through a biodegradable straw. We would have mercilessly mocked anyone who did. I did have a metal Thermos that came with my Holly Hobbie lunch box, but it always smelled like sour milk, even when it was filled with Hawaiian Punch. We didn’t drink water at school except after lunch recess, when we were allowed to have one gulp from the water fountain at the back of the room. But Raymond B. always put his mouth on the faucet and then no one else wanted to drink. Raymond was Patient Zero for all diseases in our class. If we were driving with Mom around town and got thirsty, she wouldn’t throw us a bottle of Dasani. She would hand us a stick of gum and say, “Chew this until you have enough spit to swallow.” I didn’t know drinking water was an option. Well, that’s not quite true. When we
played outside, we’d drink it straight from the hose like God intended. It was cold, refreshing and full of lead and arsenic, but it quenched my thirst. I never would have poured water into a cup and just sat around like a fancy person, sipping Perrier with my pinky in the air. No hoity-toity water for me, thank you. But then, single-use plastic bottles were created and water became an industry. Why drink water from the hose for free when you can purchase tap water in a bottle? We were told to drink eight glasses of water every day. Who has time for that? Social media influencers took drinking water to a whole new level. They are responsible for making reusable water bottles a lifestyle necessity, launching brands like Yeti, Hydro Flask and Stanley into the liquid stratosphere. Do you know how many water bottles are in my home? As of yesterday, there were 4,628, most of them branded from events, including the 17 my husband has from the Sundance Film Festival. We can blame data centers for taking our water (and I do), but maybe we should share culpability for the world’s dehydration by carrying 100 cubic meters of water with us wherever we go.
My eight-year-old self is sitting on a bench at Murray Park, puffing a candy cigarette and swigging Fresca. My 27-year-old self is learning how to drink water every day. My current self just knocked my Yeti mug over for the umpteenth time, spilling water all over the desk. Progress or product placement? 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.
July 2026 | Page 23
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