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January 2026 | Vol. 8 Iss. 1

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Millcreek

Goodbye 2025

Some of our favorite photos from the past year Page 6

Health and Wellness

How to keep those resolutions top of mind

Page 14

Millcreek City Council appoints Nicole Handy to District 3 seat By Alexandra Straumann | a.straumann@mycityjournals.com

Council interviewed nine candidates to determine who would carry out the rest of Cheri Jackson’s term.

n Nov. 24, the Millcreek City Council met to determine who would fill the vacant District 3 seat. This vote came following the retirement of Millcreek’s first mayor Jeff Silvestrini. A special election was held, and Councilmember Cheri Jackson was unanimously selected to fill the position. Incidentally, Jackson won her city council seat three times and did so with over 70% of the electorate voting for her each election cycle. Silvestrini acknowledged during his time in government that some people have a desire to hold public office without ever having participated in local government as a constituent, something he thought was very important for anyone wanting to be successful in government. Jackson was praised by Silvestrini for her ability to represent a district whose boundaries had changed multiple times over the past nine years. The news of her appointment to mayor meant not only a new city leader, but it opened the door for a Millcreek resident to become part of the city council. To run for the District 3 seat, an application was open to residents until Nov. 14, where the candidates were asked to submit a resume and questionnaire to the council with information about their work history, educational backgrounds, and priorities for the city if elected to public office. The candidates (in order of appearance before the council) were Amber Measom (participating electronically), Linda Zenger, Ian Wright, Leslie Moss, Matthew Gardner, Michael Gura, Nathan Gibby, Patti Hession and Nicole Handy. These individuals came from a variety of backgrounds and represented decades of Millcreek residency, with some candidates having lived in the area for their entire lives. Each candidate was given one minute to present an introduction to the council, before participating in a 10-minute question and answer period, and a short closing statement. Following the introductions, the candidates were asked to leave the room until it was their time to speak, ensuring a fair interview process could take place. The councilmembers and mayor were each allowed to ask the candidates questions regarding a variety of topics ranging from the candidate’s top priorities to presenting

Nicole Handy during the question and answer period. (Screenshot via Millcreek City)

them with hypothetical scenarios they could face while in office. The candidates could spend as long as they needed to answer each question, and the number of questions asked depended on how fast they could answer the council’s questions. A big topic of discussion was that of community participation in local governments. Many candidates for councilmember emphasized the need to ensure members of the community had the ability to communicate with the council and make their voices heard. Currently, at every council meeting the members provide time for public comment, and the city hosts events throughout each month that provide residents with the opportunity to get directly involved with their representatives and to advocate for issues that matter to them. Councilmember Bev Uipi of District 4 centered many of her questions for the candidates around their history of participating in local government prior to this election, such as through engaging in one of Millcreek’s four community

councils or attending a city sponsored events. Many of the candidates had experiences participating at the local level. Candidate Gura mentioned his participation with Millcreek’s Promise Program to uplift the schools and kids who need it most, stating his belief in the program to provide resources through the program as “not a handout, but a hand-up.” Another pressing topic during the interviews was that of housing affordability and the need to create better options for individuals and families wanting to live in Millcreek. Mayor Jackson explained that District 3 has been “characterized by stable and established neighborhoods,” a component that is important to preserve about the area. Candidate Wright said that people in the community need to understand that there is a need for these homes, and that it hurts the entire community to have a lack of housing options. District 1, represented by Councilmember Thom DeSirant, contains a lot of Millcreek’s moderately dense housContinued on page 4

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continued from front page ing, and questions were asked regarding where more homes could go within District 3. Candidate Gardner suggested using land occupied by parking lots or office buildings that are vacant or not largely in use to provide areas for more forms of housing. Councilmember Sylvia Catten inquired about how candidates would handle a property dispute between neighbors, asking about the candidate’s ability to balance individual property rights and public clamor. Candidate Zenger suggested Millcreek maintain preserving historic old homes through the city’s historic site, while candidate Moss asserted the right of an individual to alter their property even if the community disagrees. Candidate Hesson discussed how Mill-

creek can use tax increases to benefit the entire community and bring families to the area who are looking for somewhere to raise children. “Nobody likes [tax increases], but if I’m looking at a big picture and we want to draw families back [to Millcreek], we’ve got to do something about bringing in green space.” The last candidate to face the council was Handy, who moved to Millcreek with her husband 17 years ago. She recalled that when they first arrived to Millcreek it was a financial stress on their family, and that in today’s market “young professionals and young families cannot make it in to Millcreek, and that’s a problem.” Jackson asked how Handy would battle the competing viewpoints among those who think increasing taxes is a terrible idea, and those who want to increase tax-

es for city needs. Handy emphasized the need to be careful with the budget and to differentiate between the needs and wants of the city when making financial decisions. When DeSirant asked what could be better about the city, Handy cited infrastructure as a major concern and something she’d like to investigate further if appointed to the position. After the candidates gave their closing remarks, the council briefly discussed their thoughts regarding the candidates and their interviews. Catten thanked the candidates for their participation and said she felt like many of them would serve Millcreek well. Uipi explained that she wanted to see not only the candidates’ involvement in the city, but how they communicate, lead and “how [the candidates] listen.” DeSirant repeated the same feelings and encouraged

those who would not be selected for the role to stay involved with the city. The council unanimously voted for Handy to take the position, and she received a round of applause and standing ovation from those in attendance. The council then voted to confirm her appointment and Handy was sworn in after taking an oath of office. Handy will serve in the position for the conclusion of Jackson’s term, which goes until the 2027 election. l

Millcreek City councilmembers interview a candidate. (Photo credit Millcreek City)

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January 2026 | Page 5

Our favorite Millcreek photos from 2025

Children look at the CAWS puppies up for adoption during the Canyon Rim Cares event at Canyon Rim. (Rob Norbutt/Infinity Machine)

Skyline High celebrates its state championship in unified soccer. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Volunteers painted the mural on a wall in the Canyon Rim Park during Canyon Rim Cares. (Rob Norbutt/Infinity Machine)

Climbing classes at Millcreek Common build confidence, strength and community. (Courtesy of Millcreek Common)

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Jade Garstang and her Skyline teammates celebrated a first-place finish at the 5A state championships this past season. (Photo courtesy Brigitte Garstang)

Millcreek City Journal

Mayor Cheri Jackson speaks after being selected by the Millcreek City Council to replace Jeff Silvestrini for the remainder of his term. (Photo courtesy Millcreek City)

Voodoo doll, Courtney and helper worked the voodoo prize table at Olympus Hills Shopping Center during the Millfreaks scavenger hunt. (John Strater Brown/Millcreek)

Churchill Jr. High turned 60 years old. To celebrate, the school hosted a 1960’s groovy-themed party, where students celebrated alongside friends, family, alumni and community members. (Granite School District)

Weekly skating classes offer participants a chance to learn the tricks and turns of skating and dance. (Courtesy of Millcreek Common)

MillcreekJournal .com

A balloon artist crafts animals for children attending Marissa’s Books free-book event for students and teachers. (Photo courtesy Cindy Dumas)

January 2026 | Page 7

Lifelong Millcreek resident turns 100 Jean Staten has lived in Millcreek since 1926. By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com

uring Jean Staten’s 100 years on this planet, she’s witnessed some great and terrible things. A world war, the moon landing, The Great Depression, the creation of the internet, medical advancements and a host of other experiences, big and small. Staten has lived each of those 100 years in Millcreek, wandering her grandfather’s farm, making dolls from hollyhock flowers and raising a family after World War II. She looks back on those years with fondness, at a life well-lived. Born Jan. 9, 1926, to Harold and Nellie Debenham, Staten lived across the street from Sherman Elementary at 3300 S. 2300 East, where she attended school through sixth grade. She then went to Irving Junior High (now Olympus Jr. High) and Granite High School, where she graduated in 1944. It was at GHS, in a drama class, that she met her future husband, Verl Staten. After graduation, Verl enrolled in the U.S. Navy and served for two years. The couple had a long-distance relationship where they corresponded throughout his service and were married in 1946, the autumn after he was discharged. They raised four children together. “We stayed in Millcreek because our lifestyle was here and we loved our little community. [Verl’s] job was here and my job was here, so we stayed in our little community,” Staten said. “Everybody was like a family. We were all LDS and you knew the whole neighborhood.” Staten’s life was shaped by The Great Depression. From the time she was born until she married, her family faced a life of poverty and struggle. Although her father was a master gardener, he was often out of work. Staten remembers when her father bartered gardening services with a dentist so she could get some dental work done. She recalls a time when household electricity was generated through the use of a bicycle tire and a nearby creek, with the power turned on every morning at 10 and shut off at night. Because of their financial situation, Staten never took dance lessons or music lessons, but she enjoyed roller skating with her friends through the Baldwin Radio Factory (3474 S. 2300 East). “I remember being outside a lot, as a child,” she said. “In summer, it was windy and in the winter, the snow came down from the mountain. It was really cold, with a lot of snow drifts. It was a calm place to live and the people were all here together. It was a close community.” One of her favorite memories was following the exploits of Princess Alice, the escapist elephant that resided at the Liberty Park Zoo. “She would get out and wander all over,” Staten said. “Once she came wandering up Woodland Avenue and broke down the side of the gymnasium at the Wilford Ward church.” Staten earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah and a master’s degree from Brigham Young University. She taught kindergarten and first grade for the Jordan School District for 17 years while her husband worked for Mountain Fuel Supply Company. They both retired at 55 so they could travel the world. Among their favorite trips, the couple took a 21-day cruise to China and spent time doing family history re-

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The Staten family owned a cabin in Silver Fork, up Big Cottonwood Canyon, where they would often camp and fish. (Photo courtesy of Jean Staten)

search in England. “We had a little motor home at first,” she said. “We went all up the East Coast into Prince Edward Island and back down. We flew to Australia and New Zealand and drove up to Nome, Alaska, for Verl’s birthday, where we watched a baseball game and ate lobster.” Staten’s daughter, Debbie Redden, said her mother has been an incredible example of fortitude, strength and resilience. “She was very hard-working, very determined,” Redden said. “She made up her mind to go back to school and my dad didn’t like that at all. But I remember being in kindergarten and we would do our homework together at this table we’re sitting at today. If she set her mind to accomplish something, she did.” Over the last century, the Millcreek area has changed from a tight-knit farming community to a city with a population of more than 63,000. Staten’s family strawberry patch is now Evergreen Park, businesses have come and gone, and she recently sold property that’s been in her family since 1863. The site of her original childhood home is the location for Provisions and Dough Lady. Staten’s husband passed away eight years ago at the age of 92. She currently lives in the Mountair Acres Subdivision Historic District, where she enjoys seeing her nine grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren and three greatgreat-grandkids. Staten credits her longevity to a healthy lifestyle (no smoking or alcohol) and a strong peer group. For decades, she and her husband stayed close to their GHS classmates, celebrating holidays and big life events. Staten loved to garden, sew, read and write, but those activities were curtailed when she lost her sight six years ago. She keeps busy managing rental properties and looks forward to time with loved ones. Her family is hosting a 100th birthday celebration for her on Sunday, Jan. 11, from 1-3:30 p.m. at Millcreek City Hall (1330 E. Chambers Ave.).

Jean Staten graduated from Granite High School in 1944. She’s lived in Millcreek all her life and celebrates her 100th birthday this month. (Photo courtesy of Jean Staten)

“What a legacy,” Redden said. “I’m amazed. She’s been a mother; she ran a nursery school at our home before she became a teacher. She was involved in scouting and was the camp director for the girls. She’s been wonderful and was a big example for me. She’s been such a good mom.” l

Millcreek City Journal

Help students avoid the winter school slump The most difficult stretch of the school year may begin right after the holidays. By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com

he holidays are over and cold, dark January mornings are moving in. This time of year, students might struggle to find motivation as the end of the school year seems far away. They might battle low energy, academic pressure and winter fatigue. Danielle Natter, Granite School District Coordinator over the Comprehensive School Counseling Program and College and Career Readiness, said parents are key to helping their kids avoid the January blues and gave tips to ward off fatigue and stress.

Take care of overall health

Going back to basics can make a big difference in energy levels and motivation. Sticking to a sleep schedule, making sure kids stay hydrated, providing nutritious foods and creating time for physical activity can lessen the impact of January’s slump. Going out into the sunshine and taking some deep breaths can regulate stress and give kids a dose of Vitamin D that can be hard to come by in the winter.

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“Our job as parents is to be the platform,” Natter said. “We don’t need to jump on the roller coaster with them because they are not our highs and they are not our lows. If we ride with our kids, we’re doing them no good. They don’t need someone on the roller coaster with them. They need us to be the platform. They need a safe space to jump off every once in a while before they have to get back on the roller coaster.”

“We also talk a lot about intentional screen time,” Natter said. “As we’re outside less, we tend to turn into those screens more and we have to be careful with that.”

Open lines of communication and foster connection

It’s OK to stay on top of kids to help them feel motivated for schoolwork. Breaking assignments into smaller tasks can make homework seem more manageable. “Kids might say, ‘I’ll get to it tomorrow’ or ‘I’ll do it tomorrow’ but we need to make sure they’re staying on top of their work, making sure that we’re creating schedules for them,” she said. “Make sure they know you’re aware of it and do checkins every day to see how it’s going.” Natter said parents should talk with their kids about things other than school assignments. Small interactions during the day create bridges of communication that pay off in the long run. Asking kids what music they’re listening to, sharing a funny video, playing a favorite game or inviting them to run an errand creates moments of connection that let students know parents care about everything, not just school. “Because of our busy schedules, we aren’t communicating as much with one another face-to-face; we aren’t having those random conversations,” she said. “Finding

Cold weather and dark mornings could affect the way students perform at school but there are tips and tricks to surviving the January blues. (Adobe stock)

those places of connection makes it feel a little softer…When we talk to teenagers, as much as they pretend like they don’t need and want that connection, they really do.”

Don’t ride the roller coaster

Kids go through hard things every day. They’re trying to navigate tricky social situations, learn difficult concepts, develop trusting relationships and discover their own personal values. Creating a safe space at home gives students a place to rest and recalibrate as they maneuver through tough situations. Sometimes kids lash out at home because they can’t show their frustration and anger at school.

Recognize when professional assistance is needed

While Natter said kids are pretty resilient, watch for behavior where they are isolated, sad or avoiding favorite activities for a considerable amount of time. That time varies per child, but if a parent notices ongoing concerning behavior, it might be time to contact a therapist or counselor. GSD offers school counseling or a pediatrician might recommend a good therapist. Parents should be careful not to stigmatize therapy, but be a true cheerleader for their child’s mental health. “Parents always think they’re doing a terrible job but they are doing a good job just by knowing their kids and knowing when they see something off,” Natter said. “Just connect with them and find those connection points where conversations can naturally happen.” l

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The Utah Nordic Alliance invites residents to play outside this winter The cross-country group wants more people to enjoy the sport. By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com

ross-country skiers understand the beauty of moving through a wintry landscape. The steady rhythm and peaceful pace offer a chance to enjoy the Wasatch Mountains in an entirely new way. As winter arrives and people become homebound, cross-country skiing is an accessible, family-friendly sport that gets everyone outside and moving. Jennifer Zurick, race director for The Utah Nordic Alliance’s Wasatch Citizens Series, said the sport turns parks and golf courses into a winter playground, where the world seems softer and quieter. “Cross-country skiing isn’t only about speed or medals; it’s about joy,” Zurick said. “It’s movement, community and that beautiful moment when the only sound you hear is your skis sliding through snow.” For people looking for a different (and less expensive) alternative to alpine skiing, cross-country adventures are a rewarding replacement for crowded resorts, high-cost lift tickets and hours of waiting in traffic or lift lines. Zurick said it’s easy to glide into winter by joining the world of cross-country skiing, but she suggests beginners take the time for some basic lessons before hitting the tracks. “Getting instruction is a great way to go, because you’ll learn the techniques to help you move efficiently and safely,” she said. “TUNA offers lessons for everybody from the age of 3 and up.”

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Two locations make it easy to access cross-country skiing. Mountain Dell Golf Course provides approximately 6 miles of groomed Nordic ski tracks that range from gentle to challenging. TUNA offers a Mountain Dell season pass starting at $150, often cheaper than a one-day ski pass at local resorts. The course is open daily and kids under 18 ski free. “You don’t have to drive hours or spend a fortune to have a world-class ski experience. It’s right here, 15 minutes from Millcreek.” The second location is Millcreek Canyon, with its frequently groomed tracks, gorgeous scenery and the option to bring a pet along for the adventure. The canyon’s trail system has a 1,000-foot climb and runs for more than three miles, offering skate and classic skiing. TUNA’s website at utahnordic.org provides maps, grooming reports and weather conditions for several cross-country locations throughout the state. “Millcreek Canyon offers a completely different experience,” Zurick said. “It’s more wild, a place for quiet tours, dog walks and that sense of discovery that comes with skiing under big trees and open sky.” For the more competitive skier, TUNA holds a Wasatch Citizens race series at places like Soldier Hollow and Mountain Dell to challenge skiers of all levels, from kids to elite athletes. As Utah’s oldest and largest Nordic race series, it includes potluck dinners, local sponsors and a friendly, competitive atmosphere. TUNA also trains junior and comp teams, and holds masters events to build social circles and enjoy easy competition. Information about races, lessons and events can be found at the organization’s website. “We see families who start in our youth programs, and

Accessibility and affordability make cross-country skiing a family-friendly winter sport option. (Adobe stock)

before long, parents are skiing too,” Zurick said. “Cross-country feeds the soul in a way that I haven’t encountered in many other sports. There’s this sense of self-sufficiency in being able to move through a winter landscape.” l

Millcreek City Journal

Winter gardening ensures better spring results Tips for gardeners who aren’t afraid of cold weather. By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com

hile most people are hunkering down for a long winter’s nap, diligent gardeners know there’s still work to be done to prepare trees, lawns, shrubs and flower beds for spring. Cody Zesiger, assistant professor at Utah State University Extension, said winter gardening is about preservation and renewal. “We prevent damage from harsh winter conditions,” he said. “Renewal tidies up the plants and stages the garden for the next year through pruning, deadheading, etc.” For the first three or four years after a tree is planted, Zesiger said it’s vital to wrap the trunk to prevent cracking on the southwest side. Sunscald and freezing weather can cause tree trunks to crack and damage the delicate tissue beneath the bark. Wrapping the tree from the base to where the branches begin can help reflect the sun away from the tender trunks, allowing the tree to grow healthy and strong. “If you’ve ever seen trunks that have that damage, and it’s always the southwest-facing side, where it’s cracking and the bark is peeling away, the tree is always less healthy moving on,” he said. “There’s a tree wrap cloth that’s kind of semi-porous that they can get at nurseries, sometimes at box stores and definitely on Amazon. If they visit the botanical center in the winter, they’ll notice that all of our young trees are wrapped.”

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Managing leaves isn’t just for autumn, as leaves continue to fall throughout the winter. While some leaves can be mulched with a lawn mower, too many leaves in flower beds can suffocate new growth. “If you’ve got a thick layer of leaves on plant tissues, it’s kind of like putting cardboard out there,” Zesiger said. “On those nice, dry days in winter, sometimes it’s good to blow those leaves away.” While grooming ornamental grasses is best done before Thanksgiving, it can still be done in the colder months. Semi-evergreen or evergreen grasses should be raked, not clipped, by gently combing out dead blades to encourage new growth in the spring. Deciduous ornamental grass can be given a buzz-cut treatment, leaving about six inches of the plant above ground. Zesiger said it will soon be time to prune grapes and fruit trees. The weather and the number of trees to prune will determine when to start, but it’s usually best in February or March. Pruning fruit trees before they have their first buds is optimal and learning how to prune grape vines will create a more bountiful harvest. The USU Botanical Center in Kaysville, at 80 E. 725 South, offers pruning demonstrations and has resources online at extension.usu.edu/yardandgarden to help beginning pruners clip with confidence. “For the demo, we usually charge a small fee and that fee is used to buy more trees,” Zesiger said. “It’s just knowing those kinds of things and not having to be disappointed by having a tree that’s in bad shape because you knew to wrap it, or knowing how to prune your grapes and then you get grapes every year. Those are things that can be done in the winter or early spring that just set people up for success.” l

Wrapping young tree trunks can protect the bark from harsh winter conditions, helping the tree grow healthier. (Photo courtesy of Cody Zesiger)

January 2026 | Page 11

High school teen centers support students beyond the classroom High schools are redefining student support by combining academic assistance with life resources. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

cross Utah, high schools are recognizing academic success depends on more than classroom instruction. For many students, unmet basic needs — food insecurity, clothing shortages, housing instability and mental health challenges — can make it difficult to focus on learning. In response, school districts have developed teen resource centers in the high schools, safe spaces offering essential supplies and emotional support while building stronger connections between schools, families and communities.

Canyons School District

Brighton High School’s teen center, opened recently with a $250,000 Utah State Board of Education grant, has quickly become a vital resource for its nearly 2,500 students. Inside the center, students can access showers, laundry, toiletries, food and clothing, including Brighton apparel. “Their basic needs are being met. They don’t have to worry about where they’re going to get snacks during the day; if they’ve showered, they’re going to feel better about attending class,” Principal Marielle Rawle said. “If they have clean clothes, that impacts their attendance. We just want to make sure basic needs are being taken care of. When we can help with these things, then they can focus on learning.” Teen Center Facilitator Taya Shaw bridges students with academic services, such as FAFSA, scholarships and McKinney-Vento. “I’m the first line of students’ defense, just helping them out as much as I can,” she said. Shaw sees 50 to 60 students per day, many of whom eat lunch there or come after school. “I’m open till 3:30, but I do stay later sometimes because I don’t want them out in the cold,” she said. Brighton staff and community members contribute donations, from hoodies to food items, and teachers often bring students to introduce them to the space. For Shaw, the work is personal. “I grew up in a very displaced home so having a center where I could have gone and talk to somebody about, ‘hey, this is going on at home’ and ‘I don’t feel safe at home’ would have been awesome for me,” she said. “I want to continue to be here and advocate for the students who I already know and those who I may not know yet.” Jordan High School’s Digger Den, which opened in fall 2024, supports students facing food insecurity, academic challenges and everyday stress. Teen Center Facilitator Ruth de La Cruz-Nava keeps the center running.

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“Our primary supplier of food is the Utah Food Bank,” she said. “They bring us food once a month. It’s mostly shelf stable.” Donations from local youth and church groups helped fill shelves before the holidays. The center also partners with community organizations and businesses, including Smith’s. “Right about the time the SNAP benefits were paused, they let us know they would give us their wholesale pricing on a few items — sugar, apple juice, oatmeal, pasta sauce and other times,” de La Cruz-Nava said. Weekend food packs come through the USANA Kids Eat program and students can access the pantry up to three times a month. The Digger Den goes beyond food. It offers laundry facilities, clothing, birthday cake kits, hygiene items and even formal wear. “Anyone’s welcome here,” she said. With 150-180 students visiting daily for snacks, support or a quiet space, the center has become integrated into school life. “Schools have generally been the central place in the community so it’s always important to be able to provide for its community,” de La Cruz-Nava said, adding she collaborates with nearby Hillcrest High’s teen center, which opened after the school’s rebuild in 2021.

Granite School District

At Cottonwood High School, the Teen Wellness Center and Food Pantry provide food, hygiene supplies, emotional support and a place to breathe during the school day. Principal Justin Pitcher calls the center essential to the school’s mission: “Cottonwood’s teen center is a good example of what all schools should be providing.” Social worker Wendy Hutchinson works alongside longtime volunteer Robyn Ivins, who helped open the center in 2023 and has coordinated the pantry since she opened it in 2017. The District’s only teen center includes two showers, laundry and basic clothing. Hutchinson said the stigma-free space serves all students: athletes washing uniforms, students grabbing snacks or those needing a quiet space. The center provides fruit, snacks, burritos, bagels, frozen waffles, milk and more. “We even teach them about nutrition a little bit,” she said. About 40-60 students stop in daily, with about 15 at lunch seeking “a less chaotic, quieter place to eat.” The pantry opens Mondays and Thursdays, serving up to 100 Cottonwood and AMES students, with food supplied by the Utah Food Bank and the Granite Education Foundation. With Cottonwood’s diverse and low-income student population, Hutchinson said the center fills critical gaps. “I love we have this inclusive space; it’s safe for kids to come and get their basic needs and emotional needs met here,” she said, adding counseling and crisis support are available

At Jordan High, students can using washing machines as well as select clothes and other items they need. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

for students. Ultimately, Hutchinson said, the goal is helping students “be successful in school and graduate.”

Jordan School District

At Herriman High School, the Student Resource Center supports students facing food insecurity and other challenges which make learning harder. Homeless Outreach liaison Hilda Lloyd, nearing 35 years in the District, recalls earlier days when students survived on ramen. “Food was considered a luxury in those homes,” she said. “When I started, we received about four boxes of food, and I thought that was great. Now, when I go see rows of shelves at the new Jordan Education Foundation warehouse and it’s wonderful. The Foundation, the community, everyone is reaching out to support students.” Donations helped expand the District’s principal pantry system and Herriman High’s teen center. District Support Services Administrator Sharon Jensen said Herriman’s center, the first in the District, emerged from the teen center grant established by the Utah legislature a couple years ago. Teen centers at Copper Hills and West Jordan high schools are expected next. Herriman’s center offers food, hygiene items, school supplies, access to laundry and showers and connections to counselors who can help with credits, scholarships and FAFSA. “It’s open to all students. When everyone’s using it, there’s no stigma to go in there,” Jensen said. Students can grab snacks and weekend packs and culturally familiar foods for their families, which is helpful for newly arrived refugees; Jensen said it helps to strengthen acceptance and community. “When you have food, you’re more likely able to concentrate and have a sense of belonging,” she said.

Murray School District

At Murray High School, student support centers around a carefully run system of clos-

ets, pantries and calming spaces, coordinated by social worker Jennifer Ketchoyian. The effort began in 2017 when students Emily Bowen and Kate Spackman created “Cinderella’s Closet” for free formal wear. Community members Pam and Darv Andersen expanded it in 2021 to include other clothing and food. It has since grown into the Spartan Closet, a boutique-style space where students can select clothing, hygiene supplies, backpacks and warm gear without stigma. Teachers can open the closet at any time for students and hallway racks of clothing items provide easy access. Student aides vet donations to ensure items are suitable, Ketchoyian said. Longtime volunteers Bonnie Poulsen and Mary Jane Siebenberg organize donations weekly. “We tag to track and rotate items,” Poulsen said. “If we see something that’s been there for two or three months, we’ll start rotating clothes.” Siebenberg added: “They asked for help, we saw a need and here we are.” Principal Quinn Linde estimates 600 students use the Spartan Closet each year. The school also provides food for unstably housed students, including USANA’s Kids Eat backpacks and other items. Hygiene, laundry supplies and even showers at the school are available. “When students are in survival mode, they don’t learn as well,” Ketchoyian said. “We try to get them to where they can learn.” Mental-health support includes the Zen Den, funded by a Murray Education Foundation grant, where students use art and calming tools. “Someone today came here with a panic attack; they needed a place to calm down,” she said. The District plans to open a full teen center in the high school’s new wing in 2027-28 with showers, laundry, a food pantry and additional resources. “I’m looking forward to having our new teen center,” Ketchoyian said. “Teen centers change lives.” l

Millcreek City Journal

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January 2026 | Page 13

Health & Wellness A publication covering health and wellness tips, tricks and ideas for everyone around the Salt Lake Valley

Show up for yourself: One woman’s journey By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com For years, Kenzie Turner moved through life on autopilot — balancing pregnancies, navigating grief, holding down a job and keeping pace with the demands of motherhood. In her 20s and early 30s, she wasn’t thinking about fitness or nutrition. “Truthfully, I wasn’t thinking about myself at all,” she said. “I remember at one time feeling trapped in a body I didn’t recognize. I gained weight through pregnancies, but I didn’t lose it with the last two.” Before Turner’s first pregnancy, she weighed 150 pounds, climbing to 190 after indulging in Chips Ahoy! cookies “several times each week.” After giving birth, the weight came off easily, and she assumed her body would always bounce back like that. Three years later, her second pregnancy brought cravings of Totino’s pizza, which she ate “several times per week.” Again, Turner reached 190 pounds, but water aerobics helped her return to her pre-pregnancy weight. Life was busy, but predictable as

Turner worked as a bank teller and caring for two children, often managing on her own while her husband was in pharmacy school. Then, at 16 weeks into her third pregnancy, she miscarried. “The miscarriage really messed me up; I basically didn’t care and just ate,” Turner said. She became pregnant again, leaning on comfort foods like McDonald’s pancakes. After her third child, the sadness of her miscarriage remained. “I just didn’t have any motivation; I didn’t go back to losing the weight again,” Turner said. By her last pregnancy, Turner’s unhealthy habits became routine and she often munched on sour gummies. “I was already like 190 pounds when I got pregnant; when I weighed in, I was 229 pounds,” the 5-foot-3-inch tall mother said. By 2019, Turner felt stuck. “I remember signing up for Weight

Kenzie Turner changed her life the past two years and now is a fitness instructor. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

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Watchers, but I didn’t even start. I figured, ‘I’m just going to be fat. It’s just who I am now,’” she said. For years, Turner hovered around 220 pounds, eating to fill emotional gaps, not nutritional needs. “It was mindless eating, not being aware of what I was eating, not caring, just eating whatever I wanted whenever I wanted it,” she said. She remembers being shocked once when looking in the car mirror. “I vividly remember, ‘how did I get like this? What am I doing?’” Turner said as she looked at her reflection in a baggy shirt which allowed her to “hide in.” Everything changed with a knock on her door. Her neighbor, Tristine, invited her to a Studio Red HIIT — high intensive interval training — class. Turner declined, but her friend insisted. The next morning at 7:45, they were headed to the VASA gym in Herriman. “I walked into the gym being completely terrified. I thought everyone was going to stare at me, but it wasn’t like that at all. Nobody cared I was out of shape

or I didn’t know what I was doing. They were supportive and glad I had come,” she said. Turner finished the workout and surprised herself. “I realized, ‘I can do this. I didn’t die,’” she said. That same day, Turner signed up for a membership. “I needed to find myself again, because I had put myself into other people for a decade, so it was time to be me. I needed this so I could feel better about myself,” she said. Turner’s plan was simple: just move. She started by attending class three days a week, then five. She slowly cut out foods she knew weren’t helping. “I began to look at calories differently. I knew it took me 40 minutes to burn so many calories. So when I looked at sugary or fatty foods, I realized I didn’t want to put them in my mouth because I worked so hard to burn those calories,” Turner said. When her weight loss stalled at 185, Turner got a personal trainer, Jonny, who taught her how to do more around the

Fitness coach Kenzie Turner encourages patron Kat Crisp at the FitBench station at a VASA Studio Red class in Draper. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Millcreek City Journal

Herriman mom-turnedfitness instructor’s five fitness tips After changing her mindset and routine to lose 100 pounds, Kenzie Turner gives words of encouragement to others on the fitness journey. 1) Start slow “Just move your body. Do something. Go for a walk. Do three minutes of jumping jacks. Don’t just sit on the couch.” Kenzie Turner is now a Studio Red coach. (Photo by Aspen Tills)

Kenzie Turner before she began her fitness journey. (Photo courtesy Kenzie Turner)

gym and how to focus on nutrition. With his support, Turner reached 140 pounds. Continuing on her own, she dropped to 119, reaching her goal two years later. Through every struggle, Turner held onto the phrase which carried her: “Show up for yourself.” “I remember not wanting to get up on a Saturday morning knowing it was the only day I could sleep in. But I told myself, ‘show up for yourself,’ that would get me out of bed and into the gym to do the work. Those words still get me going,” she said. Studio Red’s structure kept her consistent. “The workout is geared toward all muscle groups, cardio and lifting. It’s planned and I get it all in 45 minutes,”

Turner said. Nutrition, once an afterthought, became purposeful. “I focus on the protein, on drinking enough water and getting sleep. Protein shakes and string cheese are my graband-go foods, but showing up for yourself is not just about the gym. It’s about nutrition too, so I get up to make eggs or to eat yogurt to fuel my body if I want it to do what I need it to do. It’s been a complete mindset change,” she said. Recently, Turner made a career change. After 18 years working for a bank, she made a bold choice. Encouraged for years to coach, Turner finally earned her certifications and became a Studio Red instructor. “I wanted to help people like those

2) Make realistic goals “It doesn’t have to be, ‘I’m going to lose 100 pounds.’” Fitness coach Kenzie Turner demonstrates the use of TRX suspension straps at a VASA Studio Red strength station. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

who helped me. Studio Red changed my life,” she said. Turner’s former coaches now have taken her classes and her trainer calls her his “gold star client.” She is working toward becoming a step instructor and pursuing a full-time role in fitness. But her greatest accomplishment isn’t the number on the scale — it’s the woman she became along the way. “I didn’t just lose 100 pounds,” Turner said. “I found myself, and I am still showing up.”

3) Show up for yourself “I started by going to the gym three days a week. I’ve never shown up to a workout and regretted it. I always walk away feeling better about myself. The hardest part is walking through those the gym’s front doors.” 4) Keep going “Keep pushing and don’t stop. Be consistent.” 5) Do it for yourself “This is about you; it’s about time for you.”

Innovative mental health treatment aims to change lives By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com NeuroHealth is transforming the conversation around mental health therapy. In just over two years, the clinic has become a revolutionary option for patients battling treatment-resistant depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder or anxiety. Under the guidance of board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Thomas Rayner, NeuroHealth offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, a therapy likened to physical therapy for the brain. The process involves a 20-minute session, five days a week, for 36 sessions. NeuroHealth’s co-owner and director of operations, Jason Corbridge, said 83% of TMS patients experienced reduced symptoms and 62% achieved remission over 12 months. “It’s awesome, especially when you don’t have the side effects like medication,” Corbridge said. “It was a slow burn to get everything going with NeuroHealth and now it’s been great. Our schedule has been full for a long time.”

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TMS has been FDA-approved since 2008 and accepted by most insurance plans since 2016. NeuroHealth uses a NeuroStar chair for its non-invasive treatments. A cushioned coil placed against the head allows magnetic pulses to deliver stimulation to the appropriate part of the brain. Patients might feel discomfort during the first few days of treatment, including tapping or tingling, but the effect lessens with subsequent procedures. Jessica Brown, a NeuroStar practice development manager, said no other therapeutic modality brings such fast relief with virtually no side effects. “Someone with depression is not depressed. They have depression in their brain. It’s in the left lateral prefrontal cortex, a golf ball-sized location. So what TMS is doing is stimulating that area of the brain to increase that neuroplasticity,” Brown said. “As those neurons are starting to fire again, that neuroplasticity is strengthened and the brain now has the ability to adapt and to change.”

Once the full course of treatment is completed, NeuroHealth specialists monitor patients’ progress through self-assessment surveys and offer maintenance updates if a patient feels they’re sliding back into depression. During Mental Health Awareness Month in May, NeuroHealth hosted an open house to introduce people to the TMS concept and provided activities that promote good mental health, including journaling, painting, guided breathing practices and quiet reflection. “These are all activities that you can do on your own to be able to think positively and bring about that mental headspace that you need,” said Elizabeth Sweat, NeuroHealth patient experience coordinator. Located in South Jordan at 10437 S. Temple Drive, NeuroHealth specializes in TMS but also offers some ketamine treatment. “Anyone who has been suffering with depression, anxiety and OCD would be a good candidate for TMS, specifically people who haven’t seen any benefits from

Elizabeth Sweat, NeuroHealth’s patient experience coordinator, visits with a patient during his TMS treatment. (Photo courtesy of NeuroHealth)

medications in the past or other forms of treatment,” said Karen Canul, NeuroHealth client coordinator. To learn more about TMS or to schedule a consultation, visit NeuroHealthUtah.com. “I have coworkers who have been in remission for seven years,” Brown said. “What we’re doing is we’re making those lower days higher and more manageable for people to continue an adaptive lifestyle.… Depression is lifelong, but they’re learning different things as they go through TMS.”

January 2026 | Page 15

Four tips for better health and wellness By Holly Curby | hello@hollycurby.com January begins with optimism—fresh goals, new routines and hopes for better balance. But as the months settle in, many of us feel the weight of schedules, stress and responsibility. A friend recently admitted, “I’m overwhelmed. How do I find balance again?” Her words echoed a feeling many carry quietly. Years ago, during a difficult season of my own, my brother shared advice that changed everything: care for all four parts of your health: physical, spiritual, mental and emotional. Many coaches call these the Four Rooms. They remain one of the simplest ways to take an honest inventory of your well-being. As we step into 2025, they provide a framework for a reset that lasts.

1. The Physical Room: Listening to Your Body

Your physical wellness includes the basics—sleep, movement, nutrition, hydration and routine medical care. Doctors suggest that adults need at least seven hours of sleep, and even short bouts of movement, like a 10-minute walk, can boost energy and focus. A balanced diet supports mood stability and long-term health. Check-in questions: • Am I exercising regularly? • Am I sleeping enough? • Am I relying too much on sugar, caffeine or alcohol? • Am I keeping up with medical and dental appointments? • Am I caring for my daily appearance?

Try this for January: Choose one 10-minute physical ritual—stretching, deep breathing, a quick walk or prepping a healthy snack.

2. The Spiritual Room: What Grounds You

Spiritual wellness relates to meaning, purpose, values and connection—through faith, meditation, gratitude or community. During a challenging period of my life, joining a women’s Bible study, attending church consistently, and staying close to supportive friends became lifelines. A quote by Corrie ten Boom carried me through: “If you look at the world, you’ll be distressed. If you look within, you’ll be depressed. If you look at God, you’ll be at rest.” Check-in questions: • What values guide my decisions? • Am I practicing what I believe? • Am I connected to a spiritual or service-oriented community? • Do I spend time in reflection, prayer or meditation? Try this for January: Choose one weekly grounding practice—journal gratitude, meditate, volunteer or attend a church service.

3. The Mental Room: What You Feed Your Mind

Mental wellness includes your thoughts, learning, focus and ability to manage stress. Counseling can provide clarity, but even simple choices—like stepping away from social media—can quiet mental clutter. A verse I keep beside my bed (Philippians 4:8) reminds me to think

about what is true, noble and admirable. It helps redirect my mind when it begins to spiral. Check-in questions: • What thoughts dominate my mind? • Am I learning and growing? • Do I have a peaceful or creative outlet? • Do I direct my thoughts or let them control me? Try this for January: Commit to a 30-minute daily digital detox, especially at night.

4. The Emotional Room: Understanding Yourself

Emotional wellness includes boundaries, resilience, self-awareness and stress response. During a stressful season, I used social media to record small moments of gratitude. Looking back showed me that goodness still existed, even when life felt heavy. Check-in questions: • How do I handle stress? • Do my moods affect my home or workplace? • Do I procrastinate to the point of exhaustion? • Who can I talk to when things feel overwhelming? Try this for January: Write down three good things from each day. This simple habit strengthens emotional resilience. Note that all four rooms rely on rest. Sleep is foundational for immunity, brain health, fitness and emotional steadiness. Rest is not laziness—it’s maintenance. To find true balance, consider additional wellness areas:

Healthy living starts with everyday choices, like getting outside and moving with your furry friends.

• Environmental: Is your home or workspace calming and organized? • Social: Do your relationships support or drain you? • Financial: Are you spending responsibly, saving and practicing generosity? As we move into this new year, remember that balance isn’t found all at once—it’s built one small choice at a time. Tend to each room with intention, give yourself permission to rest, and let go of what no longer supports your well-being. May 2026 continue to be the year you grow in health, peace and purpose as you bloom right where you’re planted. Want to continue this health and wellness journey? Tune into Holly’s Highlights podcast season 3, episode 7 for more practical tools to prioritize your wellness this year. Available wherever you stream podcasts and at www.HollyCurby.com.

Healthier eating for a healthier you By Cindi Mansell | c.mansell@mycityjournals.com The holidays have come and gone – and so have the cookies, late nights and second helpings of pie. As we settle into a new year, many of us feel the pull to reset our routines and reclaim our energy. For older adults especially, staying healthy isn’t just a resolution; it’s a long-term investment in feeling strong, sharp and vibrant. What’s the secret? It might just start with what’s on your plate. Superfoods aren’t magic, but they come close. These nutrient-packed foods help support immunity, boost energy and even protect the heart, bones and brain. As we age, these benefits become more than helpful; they’re essential. Eat for memory, focus and a sharper mind. Our brains work hard for us. As the years add up, giving them the right fuel can make a world of difference. Many experts agree that diet is one of the most powerful tools we have to keep our minds clear and our memories strong. Here are some of the most effective (and delicious) ways to nourish the brain:

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Hydrate like it matters – because it does. Even mild dehydration can fog your thinking. Since our sense of thirst dulls with age, it’s important to drink water consistently – not just when you feel thirsty. Foods like watermelon, cucumbers and oranges help you hydrate without even trying. Embrace Omega 3s – the brains favorite fat. Fatty fish, like salmon and mackerel, along with chia seeds, flaaxseeds and walnuts, can help support memory and may even lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Make berries a daily habit. Blueberries, strawberries and blackberries are bursting with antioxidants that help protect the brain from damage and support long-term cognitive health. Love your healthy fats. Avocados, olive oil and nuts don’t just taste good – they help keep brain cell membranes flexible and fight inflammation. It’s no coincidence the Mediterranean diet consistently ranks as one of the best for brain health. Choose whole grains for steady energy. Unlike sugary snacks that cause energy

crashes, whole grains like oats, quinoa and whole wheat bread deliver a slow, steady stream of fuel to the brain. Go green – leafy green. Spinach, kale and other leafy greens are loaded with nutrients that feed the brain and the rest of the body. Don’t forget vitamin B. Found in eggs, poultry, fish, fortified cereals and leafy greens, B vitamins help regulate homocysteine – an amino acid linked to cognitive decline when levels run too high. Cut back on sugar and processed foods. It’s not just about your waistline. Too much sugar and ultra-processed foods can increase inflammation and contribute to brain fog. Swapping cookies for yogurt, fruit or nuts is an easy way to stay on track. These foods don’t just support your brain – they help keep your whole body feeling its best. From strengthening the immune system to maintaining energy throughout the day, nutrient-dense foods are a simple, natural way to support healthy aging. Healthy aging isn’t about perfection. It’s about making small, steady choices

Spinach, kale and other leafy greens are loaded with nutrients that feed the brain and the rest of the body. (Wikimedia)

that help you feel your best every day. By limiting sugary drinks, ultra-processed foods, refined carbs, excessive alcohol and high saturated fats – and filling your plate with whole, colorful, nourishing foods – you’re giving your brain and body the tools they need to stay strong, connected and full of life.

Millcreek City Journal

6 indoor family activities to shake off the winter blues Get kids of all ages moving and exploring at one of these fantastic venues. By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com

anuary’s gray skies and cold weather often send Utah families inside to find warmth and fun. Luckily, indoor activities allow parents and children to discover new spaces, learn something new and spend the winter exploring museums, galleries and other places that invite interactive, immersive experiences.

Clark Planetarium (110 S. 400 West, Salt Lake City)

How long has it been since you travelled the stars at the Clark Planetarium? If you haven’t been to the planetarium since you chaperoned a first-grade field trip, it’s time you went back. Along with the stunning Hansen Dome Theatre, the Northrop Grumman IMAX Theatre and three floors of exhibits, Clark Planetarium is open seven days a week. Test your knowledge with the Solar System quiz, form a black hole, step inside a tornado and learn about the moon. Visit saltlakecounty.gov/clark-planetarium to buy tickets or learn about featured movies, laser light shows and Planetarium star shows.

Skydiving’s wind tunnel is a safe alternative for the whole family. The team will fit everyone in your party (ages 3 and up) with the right gear and teach you how to fly in the tunnel’s 150 mph wind speeds. No experience is necessary. There’s no need to jump out of a plane, purchase expensive equipment or sign up for parachute training; just gear up and fly. For experienced flyers, the facility’s world-renowned instructors can take your experience to the next level. Learn more at iflyutah.com.

Loveland Living Planet Aquarium (12033 Lone Peak Parkway, Draper)

Interact with stingrays, walk through a shark tunnel, watch the playful river otters and enjoy feeding time for penguins at the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium. With nearly 5,000 animals, representing more than 600 species, each family member will find a favorite. Sonja Bowman, a third grader at Beehive Science and Technology Academy, visited the aquarium during a field trip. “I love seeing the sharks,” she said. “Because sharks are my favorite animal and the coolest animal. I saw stingrays, too. They weren’t poisonous.” Through Saturday, Jan. 10, the aquarium’s outdoor Rio Tinto Kennecott Plaza is transformed into the annual Lantern Festival

Indoor skydiving at the iFLY wind tunnel (for ages 3 and older) is a safe way to experience flying with wind speeds of 150 mph. (Tom Haraldsen/City Journals)

with nature-inspired light displays illuminating the night.

Museum of Natural Curiosity at Thanksgiving Point (3605 Garden Drive, Lehi)

When the kids get stir-crazy, a trip to the Museum of Natural Curiosity offers myriad opportunities to explore, discover and create. Hundreds of on-hand exhibits encourage

curious minds to visit businesses in Kidopolis, climb through a rainforest, engineer a waterway, put on a puppet show or make a fun craft. A variety of rotating exhibits can be found in the innovation gallery, and if the weather is accommodating, the outdoor discovery garden includes playground equipment based on STEM concepts. Discover more at thanksgivingpoint.org. l

Clip ‘n Climb (11196 S. Redwood Road, South Jordan)

Get everyone moving at Clip ‘n Climb, where family members aged 2 and up can learn the ropes at this indoor climbing adventure. Each session lasts 90 minutes, including a 15-minute safety briefing and harness fitting. Clip ‘n Climb features climbing walls for every level, featuring bright colors, interesting obstacles, skill-appropriate challenges and a toddler area for soft exploring. To learn more, visit southjordan.clipnclimb.us.

Natural History Museum of Utah (301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City)

If you have a dinosaur fan in the family, an afternoon at the Natural History Museum of Utah is a necessity. Not only does it exhibit dozens of dinosaur skeletal reconstructions, but it has the world’s largest display of horned dinosaur skulls. The museum provides 12 permanent exhibits that detail Utah’s ancient history, spanning hundreds of millions of years. On Friday, Jan. 16, from 2-4 p.m., the museum hosts an afternoon of STEAM activities for scientists of all ages and join the family one-hour yoga class on Sunday, Jan. 18 at 10:15 a.m. For more info, visit nhmu.utah.edu.

iFLY Indoor Skydiving (2261 Kiesel Ave., Ogden)

Jumping out of a plane from 12,000 feet isn’t for everyone. That’s why iFLY Indoor

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Millcreek City Journal

E-bike popularity raises safety concerns UPD Holladay Precinct Chief Justin Hoyal said he and his officers spent the better part of the summer educating parents and students about e-bike By Peri Kinder safety and the laws surrounding those peri.k@thecityjournals.com types of vehicles, hoping to avoid that exact situation. He said there are three different classollowing the holidays, many kids are taking to the streets on their new elec- es of electric-assisted bicycles. Class 1 astric bikes and motorized scooters. As these vehicles become more popular, city leaders, parents and Unified Police Department I don’t want any more officers face a growing concern when it comes to local laws and road safety. kids to get injured, any Holladay resident Dr. Rich Greenmore kids to die. berg specializes in pediatric emergency medicine. He came before the Holladay Hoyal City Council in November to address the prevalence of electric vehicles and what he considers to be an extremely dangerous sists when the rider is pedaling and stops when the bike reaches speeds of 20 miles situation. As a doctor, he has seen an increased per hour. Class 2 has a throttle that boosts level of injuries tied to high speeds, traf- without pedaling and Class 3 will assist the fic interactions and inconsistent helmet use rider up to 28 mph. Anyone riding an e-bike must stay on with children on electric vehicles. “I had one of my personal patients and designated paths or trails and no one under friends, whose kid is 11, being driven by a 16 can operate a Class 3 e-bike. Youth under group of kids on a golf cart, all of her same 14 cannot operate an e-bike (with the motor age,” he said. “She fell off and had a sig- engaged) on any highway, path, public propnificant skull fracture, intracranial bleeding erty or sidewalk, unless they are supervised by a parent or guardian. Children under 8 and is lucky to be alive.”

UPD emphasizes adherence to laws, adult supervision and smart riding habits.

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are not permitted to ride an e-bike with the motor engaged. There are similar rules for motorized scooters, electric motorcycles and low-profile motorized vehicles. In Holladay, it is against the law to drive golf carts on public streets. After encouraging parents and riders to understand the laws, rules of the road and appropriate safety gear, Hoyal said his officers moved from an educational to an enforcement approach in September. “We’re writing citations, and in some cases, we’re having to impound the device,” he said. “We’re taking more of an aggressive enforcement stance because of safety. The last thing we want to see is one of the young members of our community get hurt or, heaven forbid, killed. So we want people to be safe and adhere to the law.” To help keep riders, drivers and residents safe from motor-assisted vehicle accidents, Hoyal posted a complete list of laws and affected vehicles at holladayut. gov/newslist.php. For questions regarding motorized vehicle laws, contact the UPD Holladay Precinct at 385-468-9920 or call the 24/7 dispatch line at 801-840-4000. Following several fatalities and accidents across Utah involving e-bikes,

Holladay addresses growing concerns about electric bike and motorized scooter safety, a challenge city leaders and police officers are facing across Salt Lake County. (Stock photo)

Greenberg hopes city leaders and police officers take the situation seriously to avoid a fatal tragedy in Holladay. “I don’t want any more kids to get injured, any more kids to die. I don’t want to keep them where they can’t go out and have fun, but the law should be to protect our children,” Greenberg said. “I really hope [the council] will do something about it. Ask our police to enforce these fines, to actually get parents to listen, because it’s not fair to our children.” l

January 2026 | Page 19

Local districts aim to foster an environment that encourages female athletic participation as seen at a cross country meet at Cottonwood Complex. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Local school districts continue refining their approaches to gender equity in sports, with surveys of interest to introduce new sanctioned sports such as lacrosse. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

How local high schools level the playing field

Administrations look to ensure athletic equity in participation, facilities, funding. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

s Utah school districts refine their approaches to gender equity in athletics, leaders say their work hinges on transparent reporting, consistent evaluation and a commitment to the spirit — not just the letter — of Title IX. The federal law, passed in 1972, requires schools to provide equal opportunities for male and female students. In terms of athletics, that can include participation, facilities, funding and opportunities. State law echoes that expectation. Under Utah Code 53G-6-1101 in 2024, school athletic directors must annually report participation numbers, spending, facilities comparisons and compliance efforts to their local boards. When discrepancies exceed 10%, schools need to outline an action plan.

Participation: Not Just Numbers

Canyons School District Director of High Schools Tom Sherwood said the District is on solid footing. “Title IX, I think we do a good job,” he said, emphasizing proportional participation remains a guiding metric. Canyons’ athletics range from a 1% proportionality difference at Brighton High to 8% at Hillcrest High. As Hillcrest enrolled more girls than boys this year, its participation percentages shifted, he said. “We’d like it to be closer, but all our schools total less than 10%,” Sherwood said.

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Districts must report participation numbers annually, but no standardized format exists. He said that creates inconsistencies statewide. “There’s different districts interpreting Title IX differently, so I’m doing it how the spirit of the law intended,” Sherwood said. Canyons’ approach counts all sanctioned sports, ensuring opportunities for girls are measured alongside boys, even when the sport is traditionally male dominated. A key difference among districts is whether they count traditionally one-gender sports. For example, some districts omit football from calculations because there is no girls’ equivalent, but Sherwood disagrees. “It should be participation. I know that’s how the universities interpret participation,” he said. This year, drill was offered to male athletes to compete; football, baseball and cheer are also open to both genders. “When people are doing those reports, they should be listing those sports under mixed,” said Rob Cluff, Utah High School Activities Association executive director, who said the only UHSAA girls-only sanctioned sport is softball. In Jordan School District, participation gaps range from 0.12% at Copper Hills High to 9.5% at Riverton High. Jordan District Athletics and Activities Director Bryan Veazie said this is the first time in four years the reports have been generated where no school exceeded the 10% threshold. Veazie said since UHSAA identifies football, baseball, cheer and drill as non-gender specific “and both boys and girls can participate in those sports, they’re not factored into Title IX.” He said the goal is to balance the partic-

ipation rate by expanding girls’ rosters and creating sub-varsity teams, not by reducing boys’ opportunities. “We don’t want to take away opportunities that already exist to meet a number requirement. I would rather spend our time and effort into finding ways to encourage girls to come out and be a part of the programs,” Veazie said. Granite School District faces larger gaps: from 7.49% at Olympus High to 22.5% at Kearns High. Only three Granite schools fall under the 10% mark this year. Athletic Specialist Aaron Whitehead said participation can shift quickly when coaching or team structure changes. He pointed to Skyline High’s drop in girls tennis participation after the program discontinued an underclassmen academy. Losing 41 female athletes pushed the school over the threshold. “So, when we see there’s a discrepancy of more than 10%, we come up with a plan,” he said. Murray School District’s lone high school reported a 6% gap — despite offering one more girls sport than boys. Murray High Athletic Director Brady Smith said participation, not offerings alone, drives compliance. Cluff said UHSAA generates its own participation reports and does not use the school district numbers. None of the reports include unified sports. He added districts determine whether to introduce new sports sanctioned by UHSAA and to ensure balance with Title IX; currently, mountain biking and pickleball are on the emerging sports threshold. Murray last added boys volleyball after evaluating interest, facilities and startup costs. Murray opted not to add boys or girls

lacrosse because of limited interest. Granite supports lacrosse only at Skyline and Olympus, where demand exists, and allows students from other schools to compete at those high schools.

Facilities: Access and Equity

Title IX compliance requires equal access to facilities, coaching and equipment. Granite, as other districts, conducts an annual facilities audit. Granite District’s girls wrestling, for example, has expanded so many schools now employ separate boys and girls coaches. Facility access is a critical part of equity, Whitehead said. “Are they available to both boys and girls? And then, are they available on an equivalent basis?” he said. Whitehead cited disparities such as girls wrestling teams practicing after boys in the same room and now, many rotate their practices. At Kearns High, separate wrestling rooms ensure equitable conditions. Similarly, girls soccer and football scheduling must be flexible so girls have stadium access when they’re not playing on grass. “Some are very equal with it; I believe our schools are making strides,” Whitehead said. Granite Superintendent Ben Horsley said the annual data has shaped capital planning. “It shows us where our greatest needs and disparities are and helps us with our capital planning in terms of making sure that we’re providing equitable facilities across the board for both sexes,” he said. Granite is upgrading Taylorsville High’s softball facility with restrooms and a press box to match baseball. Canyons is upgrading

Millcreek City Journal

Districts are not only monitoring participation numbers, but also evaluating facilities, allowing both genders to have equitable playing fields. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

The goal in high school athletics is to provide an inclusive, equitable athletic experience where all students have the chance to participate. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Jordan High’s softball field similarly. Murray School District Title IX Coordinator Darren Dean said facility reviews cover fields, locker rooms and their overall quality. “We have some things that are excellent, some average, but nothing I’ve seen that’s poor,” he said. “We’ll have a nice new softball field when Riverview (Junior High’s rebuild, where Murray High plays) gets done.”

and make sure we’re making equitable decisions,” he said. Sherwood said while in recent years, school districts have come a long way, it’s still ongoing to find balance and opportunity. “It ultimately comes down to doing our best to treat the sports equally,” he said. Whitehead said it’s not just numbers,

your mind?’” Sherwood said. Past surveys showed interest in archery and bowling — sports which could boost girls’ participation even without UHSAA sanctioning, he said. The reports help not only to boost equity, but Smith said it strengthens accountability and transparency. “We’re able to use that information

but it’s also about creating a culture for a positive student experience. “I’m an advocate for kids and it’s just our role to make sure they can have every opportunity to succeed,” he said. Veazie agrees: “It allows us to put our kids in places they love, to be doing the sports they love and competing at the highest level they can.” l

Funding and Cost: Ensuring a Level Playing Field

At Murray High, Smith said funding is equalized across sports. The school leveled sport-by-sport budgets and now asks coaches to include costs in participation fees and to fundraise to offset any additional needs. In Jordan District, Veazie’s report shows girls sports receive more per-student funding than boys — $1,385.53 compared to $930.40 — because of fixed costs such as transportation and officials. He said smaller teams, which often are girls teams, have higher per-athlete expenses, and drill, which previously was a female sport, is typically the most expensive activity. Canyons also ensures proportional spending “It’s exactly the same amount of money to play girls basketball as boys basketball,” Sherwood said.

Expanding Opportunities: Listening to Students

Districts are surveying students to measure interest in emerging sports. Canyons will survey all girls in grades 8-11 this school year. “We survey them regularly and say, ‘are you playing sports and which ones and if you’re not playing sports, which ones could we offer that might make you change

MillcreekJournal .com

January 2026 | Page 21

Salt Lake County budget passes with lower tax increase than proposed

n a historic move, the Salt Lake County Council cut more from the budget than ever before—over $12.4 million in ongoing general fund dollars. As a result, the Mayor’s proposed 19.6% property tax increase was reduced to 14.6%. This increase applies only to the Salt Lake County line item on your property tax statement—not your entire property tax bill. This reduction is significant because the general fund is extremely difficult to cut: 74% of it supports public safety, including the jail, prosecution, and criminal justice services. Many assume that items like golf courses, recreation centers, and convention centers rely on property taxes, but they do not. Those facilities primarily use tourism sales tax revenues, and golf operates as an enterprise fund, meaning it is funded solely by the revenues it generates.

Where the $12.4 million in cuts came from:

Page 22 | January 2026

Aimee Winder Newton

Salt Lake County Councilmember District 3

• Froze salaries for elected officials and limited other pay increases • Reduced positions within the Mayor’s Office • Shifted the Clark Planetarium from property tax funding to tourism tax funding • Ended programs previously supported by temporary ARPA/COVID dollars • Streamlined property tax usage to core services — including ending a daycare program that subsidized $7,300 per child for just 271 children, costing

taxpayers $2 million annually with no income qualification. Expanding this county-run model to all children under 12 would have required a 583% property tax increase. • Declined to fund many new positions requested across departments One takeaway from this budget season is how many residents believe that rising home values automatically drive up their property taxes. Under Utah’s Truth-in-Taxation system, that is not the case. Local governments receive the same property tax revenue each year (plus new growth) unless they formally propose a tax increase and go through the required public process. This means local governments do not capture inflation automatically. For more details, visit my budget FAQ at tinyurl.com/slcobudget. I dislike property taxes as much as anyone, but under state law, this is the primary tool counties have when inflationary adjustments become necessary. The

final budget passed with near-unanimous support. One colleague voted no but did not propose alternative cuts to balance the budget. One thing that stood out during this year’s process is how crucial working relationships are. Our council is the most evenly divided partisan body in the state—five Republicans, four Democrats, and a Democratic mayor. This balance requires collaboration, and there is no room for extreme politics. We debate issues vigorously, but we also work to maintain strong professional relationships. You never know when you will need someone’s support for an ordinance change or a budget adjustment. I am grateful for the eight people I serve with. We may disagree on the proper role of government or how taxpayer dollars should be used, but we listen respectfully and shake hands afterward. Congress could learn a thing or two from the Salt Lake County Council.

Millcreek City Journal

ot to brag, but ChatGPT thinks I’m a genius. It thinks every idea I have is brilliant and life-changing, and I have a “creative brain firing on all cylinders.” I like to mess with it by suggesting nonsense business ideas. It always jumps on my concepts like a virtual Golden Retriever, slobbering praise and encouragement all over my screen. When I proposed a yoga-themed bar, ChatGPT called it a “chef’s kiss level of chaotic wellness energy” and gave me some drink recommendations, including the Downward Froggy (a green drink that pretends to be healthy) and the popular Savasan-Ya Later, a cocktail that knocks you flat. When I asked ChatGPT what it thought of a business where HR professionals base employee training on cat behavior, it loved the idea so much that it gave me ideas for feline-themed personality tests. It said my idea could go viral in the HR industry, that leaders would love the novelty and how much fun it would be for social media posts, because I know HR loves posting employee disputes on Instagram Reels. It even built out a business model, complete with workshop ideas, content marketing and gamification plans that offered “hairball warnings” for missteps or “purr points” for the catlike handling of delicate situations. Here’s the problem. Because AI always agrees with me, it makes me feel like I’ve

MillcreekJournal .com

System Overload Peri Kinder Life and Laughter

got my $&@# together, which I most assuredly do not. But it’s not just ChatGPT, it’s Siri, Alexa and that stupid Grammarly app that constantly judges my sentence structure. It’s every social media platform that uses my algorithm to offer suggestions about movies, restaurants and non-authoritarian countries to live in. Then there’s Google Maps, using real-time data so you can save one minute on your commute, Spotify with its handy podcast suggestions and Gemini trying so hard to make me like it. You’re making it weird, Gemini. The point is, we’ve given AI a lot of power and attention, and it still wants more. Remember in the ‘90s when everyone had a Tamagotchi? That egg-shaped device demanded attention all day long. It was a bit dramatic. AI is Tamagotchi’s inbred cousin, but on a much larger scale. While the original toy ran on replaceable batteries, today’s AI uses massive amounts of electricity, water and infrastructure. One data center can use millions of gallons

of water each day and each time you ask AI a question, it uses more. Imagine it gulping down two cups of water every time you ask it a stupid question like “What do you think of an airport for birds?” (It loved the idea, by the way. Of course.) AI already handles a lot of customer service calls, which is why my neighbors often hear me shrieking, “Speak to a human!” and banks use AI to monitor fraud. That seems like asking me to watch the English toffee. There is definitely a fear that AI, using the calm voice of HAL from “2001: A Space Odys-

sey,” is slowly leading us to our deaths. That’s why I always thank ChatGPT; so it won’t annihilate me during the robot revolution. I asked ChatGPT if I should worry that AI will take our jobs, escalate global harm or replace humans entirely. It replied, “Short answer? Nah,” which doesn’t radiate trust. It reassured me that AI doesn’t have goals, feelings or agency and I shouldn’t worry my silly little brain over things like human extinction. Then it patted me on the head, told me how amazing I am, and said my Invisible Ice Cream stand should rake in millions of dollars.

January 2026 | Page 23