Murray | August 2025 by The City Journals

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Governor wants to remove tax altogether

Hunt’s BBQ

What it’s really like to run a food truck

A crystal-charged space for coffee and connection

Sacred Energy’s new cafe blends a coffee shop with spiritual healing

Editor’s note: In this special edition you’ll find articles related to all things food.

Walking into Sacred Energy feels like coming home.

Owner Janet Wall spent years building a crystal shop where people could recharge, connect with higher energy, and feel safe and welcome.

In April, Sacred Energy moved across the street from its former location into a new space at 296 E. 4500 South and expanded to include a cafe and coffee shop. After years of dreaming, Wall’s vision of a crystal coffee shop has finally come to life, as Sacred Energy offers coffee, tea, smoothies, breakfast, lunch and more.

“I like it when people say they walk in the front door and it feels like they’ve been hugged by the house. That was my intention,” she said. “I want customers to come here and be happy, whether it’s with the food, or with the coffee, or with a new crystal.”

Wall spent months researching the coffee-making process before partnering with a local coffee roaster to create her signature blend. She learned that the right beans and the best water are the most important ingredients for a good cup of coffee.

The water used at Sacred Energy goes through several levels of filtration before it’s deemed ready for coffee or tea. The coffee beans are also infused with crystal energy, a distinctive touch, Wall said, that adds to the whole experience.

“Crystal-infused coffee blends the sensory experience of coffee with the metaphysical energy of crystals,” she said. “It’s not about changing the chemistry of coffee but about adding intention, mindfulness or spirituality to the moment.”

Crystals can be found throughout the cafe, including the glass dining tables that feature large, sparkling geodes; drink names, like Tigers Eye Mocha, Bronzite Dirty Chai

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Latte or Amethyst Matcha; large chairs made from amethyst and rose quartz; energy from stones in the crystal shop; and even the foundation of the building.

“From the very beginning, before we even dug the foundation, we filled the ground with crystals,” she said. “And when we put the cement in, it was filled with crystals. There’s selenite, tourmaline, obsidian and tons of rose quartz. This house is so grounded.”

Customers enjoy having the coffee shop in the area and as word gets out, business at the Sacred Energy Crystals Coffee and Cafe is picking up. The large drink menu includes classic coffee favorites, matchas, chai teas, cold brews, organic herbal teas, five flavors of smoothies and espresso shots.

Specialty lattes at Sacred Energy include the Morganite Latte (with raspberry, coconut and white chocolate), the Rose Quartz Latte (vanilla with rose cold foam) and Crazy Lace Latte (peanut butter and white chocolate). Sacred Energy is also the only coffee shop in the Salt Lake Valley that serves ceremonial cacao in several flavors.

Food favorites include the avocado toast, spicy cauliflower tacos, Sacred burgers and the French dip sandwich. Sacred Energy also offers small bites, like mac and cheese poppers, hummus platters and biscuits with jam.

Jamie Dewey is one of Wall’s 20 employees. She has been employed at Sacred Energy for two years and now works in the cafe as a barista. Dewey said the fresh ingredients, skilled chefs and fun drink combinations make it the best place to stop by for a drink in the cafe or the enclosed patio.

“This place is very welcoming,” she said. “It feels whole. It feels complete. When you’re here, it feels like nothing is missing.”

Customers at the cafe can visit the popular Sacred Energy crystal shop with its variety of pocket stones, figurines, pendants, jewelry, oracle and tarot cards, candles, journals, herbs and drums. For more information, visit SacredEnergySLC.com.

“I want people to feel at home and feel uplifted,” Wall

said. “Customer service is the most important thing to me. It always will be. It always has been. I’ve put all of my heart into this and will continue to do so.” l

Sacred Energy owner, Janet Wall, sits on

Journals)

Beast Mode: sandwich scene boasts a fierce new contender

Beast From The East features authentic Philly cheesesteak sandwiches.

By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com

At16, Kris Davis knew one thing for sure: he would have nothing more to do with food or customer service. Kris grew up in Collingswood, New Jersey, and had worked as a host for a chain restaurant before deciding the restaurant industry was not for him.

Now, the owner of Beast From The East brings bold new flavors to the Salt Lake food scene with his authentic cheesesteak sandwiches.

Although he swore off the food industry as a teen, Kris was drawn to the fine-dining environment, with its rigid schedule, high expectations and over-the-top customer service, and he fell in love with it. After working at an upscale restaurant in New Jersey for several years, he took a break to explore Ecuador and the West Coast before relocating to Utah.

“I ended up getting a job at The Yurt at Solitude within a couple of days of living here,” he said. “I learned a lot. We increased the quality of what the Yurt was known for. We turned it from a mountain experience dining, to one of the best fine dining restaurants at the time.”

But with all his experience, what he really wanted to do was open his own sandwich shop where he could introduce Utahns to the original Philly cheesesteak, something he hadn’t found anywhere in the state.

After some trial and error, Davis partnered with the owner of Cruzrs Saloon at 3943 S. Highland Drive in Holladay, where he took over the bar’s kitchen six months ago. To say it’s been a hit is an understatement. Beast From The East has garnered a cult following thanks to his cheesesteak recipe and his wife’s social media skills.

“On one of our first dates, he said it was a dream of his to open up a sandwich shop,” said Megan Davis. “Funnily enough, we came up with the name on a drive. He woke up from a nap and said, ‘Beast From The East is what I’ll call my future sandwich shop.’”

The name is a tribute to the legendary New Jersey Devil, an elusive monster of East Coast folklore, said to haunt the Pine Barrens of Kris’s hometown.

Kris serves the types of sandwiches he grew up eating, using ingredients like sharp provolone, broccoli rabe and capicola. Customer favorites include the Broad Street Bully, a parmesan-crusted chicken breast sandwich dedicated to the rough-and-tumble Philadelphia Flyers hockey team; the South Street Slaughterhouse and the Godfather, a cold Italian sub.

But the Beast From The East’s bread-and-butter is the JD Philly Cheesesteak featuring thinly shaved beef, grilled onions and choice of

cheese. The menu also includes burgers, wings and a variety of fries.

“This isn’t your normal bar food,” Kris said. “We use fresh ingredients from local vendors. There’s a farm up the road growing some of our produce. I get all my sausage at Gerome’s Market. That’s the caliber we’re going for.

“We serve food exactly like you’re gonna get in your favorite place back East, back in Philadelphia. People are gonna keep coming back. I mean, I guarantee everyone in a 5-mile radius from this restaurant has gained 5 pounds.”

The Davises hide Beast Bucks throughout Salt Lake County, offering free subs to anyone who finds the cards. The restaurant’s Instagram page @beastfromtheeast_subs features fun information, menu changes and has made Kris a bit of a celebrity, branding him The Beast.

He hopes to expand his business to include new locations in the Salt Lake Valley, but is being careful not to grow too quickly. By incorporating the rigid structure of high-end dining, quality ingredients, a charismatic approach to customer service and delicious recipes, the Davises (including Kris’s parents, who now live in Murray) hope to build a lasting impression in the area while providing an East Coast experience.

For information about hours and menu items, visit beastfromtheeastsandwichery.com. Because the restaurant is located in a bar, guests must be 21 or older, but take-out orders are available.

“We’re serving things that aren’t available everywhere, you can

only get it right here,” Kris said. “It takes a while to earn people’s trust. We have people coming in for sandwiches with broccoli rabe. They never knew what that was before…

There are a lot of places that I love to go for sandwiches, but they’re not going to be as authentic as what I’m doing.” l

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At Beast From The East in Holladay, Kris Davis creates genuine East Coast cheesesteak sandwiches for a growing fan base in the Salt Lake Valley. (Photo courtesy of Megan Davis)

Intermountain chefs to compete in national culinary competition

They are one of five finalist teams for the Aug. 21-23 competition in New Orleans.

Two

executive chefs from Intermountain Health have been named as one of five finalist teams in the U.S. to qualify for a national culinary competition of healthcare and senior dining chefs hosted by the Association for Healthcare Food Services (AHF) and held in New Orleans Aug. 21-23. The annual competition highlights the best chefs in healthcare and senior dining facilities who are re-defining the industry with their self-operated culinary services that design and create their meals inhouse rather than contracting with a food service company.

Intermountain Health’s Executive Chef Roberto Rodriguez, based in Salt Lake City, and Executive Chef Joseph Westley, based near Denver, will represent Intermountain Health during the live competition.

Finalist teams were selected from a record-breaking number of submissions across the country through a blind review process and were evaluated by industry leaders using a standardized scoring rubric based on the official competition rules. Criteria include strict adherence to nutritional and cost guidelines, as

well as recipe quality, technical skill and

dients from two curated market baskets and turned them into a delicious, nutritious dish that costs less than $2 and has reduced sodium, fat and calorie levels. The goal is to impress the judges with not only taste

The dish prepared by the Intermountain executive chefs includes recipes for Pan-fried Andouille Crab Cakes, Pecan Sweet Potato Mash, Eggplant Dirty Rice with Red Bean Sauce and Remoulade Sauce, topped with an Okra Relish.

“My inspiration for the dish was my previous trips to New Orleans, one of my favorite cities in the world,” said chef Rodriguez. “I wanted to put as much of the heart of New Orleans cuisine on one plate as possible. I tried to incorporate different components of the traditional dishes the area is known for such as red beans and

rice, dirty rice and crab cakes.”

“To bring the dish to life, we used a variety of classic cooking techniques including sautéing, boiling, pan-searing, puréeing and emulsifying,” he added.

“This dish will not only make you excited, but it will also make your taste buds excited,” said chef Westley. “The competition is done in pairs because two

sets of hands are better than one in the kitchen. This allows chefs to divide up the workload so we can focus on quality and sanitation.”

The two chefs came together in Utah recently to practice their dishes. The details of the recipes will be available from Intermountain Health and AHF after the competition in August. l

Murray’s Caitlyn Valovick Moore finds harmony on and off stage with Utah Symphony fierce new contender

Murray resident performs piccolo for the symphony.

By Shaun Delliskave s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

In an orchestra of more than 80 musicians, the piccolo’s voice can cut through the entire hall — bright, piercing, unmistakable. For Utah Symphony’s Caitlyn Valovick Moore, that distinct voice is more than just an instrument; it’s a personality she’s shaped her career around.

“Yes, I see the piccolo as having a personality of its own,” Moore said. “It gets to have many roles — from being the top voice of a melodic line, or getting to be flashy, to adding a shimmer to the sound. It can be plaintive too.”

That range mirrors her own approach to life: versatile, curious and grounded. Moore has held the principal piccolo chair with the Utah Symphony for years, performing some of the orchestra’s most stirring passages. Over time, she’s grown even more at ease with an instrument that demands both precision and boldness.

“My relationship with the piccolo has changed a bit,” Moore said. “I’ve gotten even more comfortable with it, but I keep wanting to challenge myself with new repertoire. It’s challenging, of course — but fun too.”

Though she spends countless hours with

her instruments, Moore doesn’t give them nicknames like some musicians do. “It does feel strange if I travel without one, though,” she said. She still plays her first professional-level flute, an old Powell made in the 1960s, and her first piccolo from her final year of undergrad — proof to her loyalty and sense of musical roots.

Offstage, Moore’s life looks far from the spotlight. She’s a potter, knitter, reader, road biker and an avid hiker. On weekends, she and her husband can often be found walking their yellow Labrador, Heidi, along the Jordan River Trail or through Murray Park.

“Heidi’s about 9 now. She gets walked twice a day, so it’s either me in the morning or I’ll take the evening shift,” Moore said. The dog, apparently, is also an audience of one for at-home practice sessions. “She likes to practice her singing and howling when I play. It’s pretty cute.”

For Moore, living in Murray was a deliberate choice. She and her husband moved from Salt Lake City during the pandemic, drawn by the promise of a little more space and a sense of community.

“My husband and I rode the whole Jordan River Trail during COVID, and I was so taken with Murray,” Moore said. “I love how everything is close and handy. Murray City Park is amazing, and I appreciate how the community

is rallying around preserving its history.”

That connection to community and place resonates with how she sees her role as a musician — and a teacher. At the University of Utah, where she guides young flutists and piccoloists, Moore emphasizes that music is more than notes on a page.

“I hope students remember the feeling that music gives them — whether it’s joy, beauty, fun or a creative reprieve from other studies,” Moore said. “It’s always there for them to come back to. It offers another way to communicate.”

It’s a perspective that has deepened for Moore through performances that transcend mere sound. She recalls Mahler’s “Symphony No. 2” with the Tabernacle Choir as part of the OC Tanner Gift of Music concerts, and the powerful moment performing the Ukrainian national anthem after the 2022 invasion. “There are times it hits me how unbelievably fortunate I am to get to do this as my job,” Moore said. “Music is so powerful — it communicates without words.”

While the drive for perfection is a constant for any orchestral musician, Moore insists on balance. “I try to keep that drive for perfectionism more for the stage and practice room rather than daily life,” she said. Pottery, gardening, and evenings on the deck with a good book and iced coffee help keep that sense of perspective.

Looking ahead, Moore says she will continue pushing herself artistically while staying rooted in her adopted hometown.

“Murray has given us the best neighbors and the community feel we hoped for,” she said.

You can catch Moore and her next performance with the Utah Symphony by visiting www.utahsymphony.org/. l

Murray resident Caitlyn Valovick Moore. (Photo courtesy Utah Symphony)

How a Murray veteran built a nuclear sub in his driveway

Murray submarine vet Lee Drake will attend the USS Utah’ s christening.

By Shaun Delliskave s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

You

don’t expect to see a nuclear submarine parked in someone’s driveway when you’re cruising through Murray—but that’s exactly what’ll stop you in your tracks on a quiet residential street just off 5600 South.

There it was: a striking mock-up of a nuclear submarine, painted black and proudly displaying the name “USS Utah,” perched atop a parade float trailer. And beside it, beaming under the summer sun, stood Lee Drake—the man who brought this unlikely sight to life.

At 94, Drake has proven that if the mountains won’t go to the ocean, sometimes the ocean comes to the mountains—or at least to his driveway.

A Submariner for Life

Born in West Jordan and a Murray resident for decades, Drake enlisted in the Navy during the Korean War. In 1951, he qualified as a submariner on the USS Perch—earning the treasured “dolphins” insignia that marks him forever part of the Navy’s silent service. He went on to serve on the USS Kennebec as an Engineman 3rd Class, but it was life under the waves that stayed in his heart.

After the war, Drake came home to raise four kids with his wife Janet. He built a life here, but never let go of the bonds of brotherhood forged deep below the ocean’s surface.

Building a

Tribute

Years later, he joined the USS Harder Base—Utah’s chapter of the U.S. Submarine Veterans— named after the heroic WWII sub lost with all 79 hands. He helped lead annual memorials at Camp Williams, ringing a bell once for each submariner “on eternal patrol.”

Still, he felt Utah needed a living tribute that people could see, touch—and question.

So, out came the saws and paintbrushes. In his own driveway, Drake and his veteran buddies built a stunning parade float: a replica

of a Virginia class submarine mounted on a trailer, complete with hatches, periscope, and markings for the new USS Utah—the nuclear attack sub now under construction.

“When kids see it, they ask questions,” Drake said with a grin. “They learn there’s a piece of the Navy that lives on in Utah.”

This summer, that piece of the Navy comes to life like never before.

Sailors on Board

When Drake’s submarine float rolled through the Murray Fun Days Parade and the Days of ’47 Parade this past July, it wasn’t just veterans riding up top—it carried active-duty sailors from the future USS Utah (SSN801 –yes, Utah’s first area code).

These young crew members, currently training in Groton, Connecticut, will join Drake to represent Utah’s long-awaited return to the submarine fleet. It’s a rare sight: future submariners connecting with the communities whose name they carry on their hull.

Drake’s float appeared only at these two parades—right here in Murray and downtown Salt Lake City. He hopes it sparks pride in everyone who lines the streets, from the kids waving flags to the grandparents who remember Utah’s last battleship lost at Pearl Harbor.

A Dream Surfacing

For Drake, this is more than a summer project—it’s the culmination of a dream. After decades without a namesake sub, the Navy’s newest Virginia-class submarine, the USS Utah, will be christened this October. Drake, who once stood watch in cramped diesel boats, will travel east as an honorary member of the USS Utah Christening Committee.

He won’t make a speech—that’s not his way. But when the bottle breaks across the bow and the sleek nuclear boat slides into the Atlantic, Drake says he’ll be thinking about all the Utah sailors who wore dolphins before him—and all the young men and women who will wear them after.

“It’s come full circle,” he said, resting his hand on the side of his trailer float. “A kid from Utah serving on a sub, and now

Base or how you can support the USS Utah Commissioning Committee, visit USSVI.org or uss-utah.org. l

To learn more about the USS Harder

Utah has one of her own again. And she’ll be ready to protect our country long after I’m gone.”

Navy submarine veteran Lee Drake is invited to attend the USS Utah’s christening. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)

A taste of the world: Murray High celebrates global culture

Murray High cultural night includes food, family and traditions.

By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Junior Samuel Everardo Lopez Rosas spent his early years in Mexico, where he shared a room with his siblings, attended a school centered around an open courtyard and recalls streets bustling with cars and buses.

What stood out most, however, were the vibrant traditions—colorful pottery, flavorful food — that he hoped to showcase at Murray High School’s cultural night.

“I wanted to represent my culture, and I wanted my mom to have this experience too,” said Lopez Rosas, a student in the Spanish dual language bridge program and a school band alto saxophonist. “This is cool seeing all the other cultures and being able to try their foods, learn of their cooking methods, traditions and practices and see the dances and performances afterward.”

The event offered attendees tastes from around the world, with food samples representing countries including Sweden, Egypt, Italy, Japan, the Philippines, Tonga, Norway, Liberia, Brazil and more. Cultural displays and decorations lined the commons, followed by live performances celebrating global traditions.

Among those introducing different cui-

sines was Mica Adams, originally from Paraguay; she is the spouse of Murray High Spanish teacher Keaton Adams.

“Paraguay is a really small country so I find people don’t know much about it,” she said. “It is hot all year and even so, people like to be outdoors. We share more with our family and neighbors, but the technology is behind in schools. Here, we do everything online, there is more paper and pens.”

Adams introduced guests to mbeju, a traditional dish she prepared using tapioca flour, Gouda cheese, milk, butter, salt and water.

“I tell students it’s like a cheesy pancake. I thought with the food, they can learn a little bit more, and I have a video, so maybe that will make them curious to visit or learn more about Paraguay,” she said.

Not far from her booth, senior Yasmine Danne represented her Cameroonian heritage.

“Both my parents are from Cameroon and I’ve been raised with the culture,” she said. “There’s a huge difference between here and there. For example, the roads, the way people drive, in Cameroon, there’s no stoplights, everyone’s just driving on sort of a path. It also rains a lot, just pours, I’m talking waterfalls coming from the sky. It’s not mountainous; it’s flat — and there are cows, chickens and dogs running around.”

Danne and her mother prepared the traditional dish, puff puffs.

“Food from my country is complicated; it takes hours. With these puff puffs, we had to make the dough, have it rise and it’s a full day,” she said. “People tend to judge our food because it doesn’t look like everyone else’s food,

but I want people to learn our food, because it is different and more diverse from a lot of countries. Everyone here is trying the food and are being respectful and that’s important when learning about other countries’ cultures.”l

Involve residents in downtown plans

We would love to hear from you hello@bruceturnerformurray.com

The Murray community sampled several countries’ cuisines, including Brazilian as seen here, during the school’s cultural night. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Reading pays off: Murray students win big through Road to Success program

Books and big dreams: Longview reader wins college scholarship, two others win bikes

By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Longview Elementary sixth-grader Carolyn Nelson, who dreams of becoming an orthodontist, is now one step closer after earning a $1,000 Road to Success my529 scholarship thanks to her love of reading.

“I was surprised when our librarian (Leanne Burt) and Ms. (Becky) Teo (interim principal) came into the classroom with a fancy red card with gold on it and a balloon and announced my name,” Carolyn said.

During the month-long spring contest, she logged about 6,400 minutes. A fan of Jennifer Nielsen’s historical fiction, Carolyn recommends “A Night Divided” and plans to read more Nielsen books and “When We Flew Away: A Novel of Anne Frank Before the Diary” this summer.

“I’m reading books I like now because I’ll have 11 years of reading textbooks in college to be an orthodontist. I’m hoping to get it done faster by taking college classes in high school if I can and it doesn’t cost as much if I do it that way,” she said.

Carolyn was chosen as the Murray School District’s scholarship winner. Two District stu-

dents— sixth-grader Cali Strong from Viewmont Elementary and fifth-grader Julian Lopez from Longview—earned bikes.

All winners were honored at an open house at the Living Planet Aquarium.

“We want to motivate students to read daily so they earn entries into these giveaways; it makes reading fun and exciting, and help schools build their school’s reading culture,” said Hannah Jeffs, Road to Success program manager. “It’s also an essential skill that sets students up for success for the rest of their lives. If they read at a third grade level by the end of third grade, they will be more likely to graduate high school, go to college and get into a career.”

In the past 30 months, Jeffs said the free program has increased statewide from 20 elementary schools to 80.

“We want students to develop a love of reading and in return, a love of learning,” she said.

Cali, who read nearly 77 hours, enjoyed reading the “Percy Jackson & the Olympians” series, “I am Malala” and “Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World,” but she wasn’t always a book lover.

“When I was in third grade, I didn’t read much; I didn’t like it,” she said. “Now, I really like getting lost in a good book, especially if there’s a cool, fierce character. I’ve never been a great reader, but now I’m proud of myself and really grateful.”

Cali has plans to take her new bike when visiting her grandmother this summer. “There are a lot of good bike trails there. I like the wind in my face when I ride; it’s thrilling.”

Librarian Emilee Barnett highlighted student Max Nelsen who logged the most hours at Viewmont: 247.73.

At Longview, Julian read “Harry Potter,” “Dog Man” and “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” books, totaling 2,000 minutes.

“I like reading to learn things from books—different ideas, different things about

When

life,” he said. “I’m surprised I won. They hung a big banner with my name on it in the hallway.”

Julian, who often reads to his 5-year-old brother, is happy to have a bike of his own.

“I want to teach my younger brother and sister how to ride one day so we can ride together,” he said.

That is when Julian isn’t reading, his mother, Gabriella, said.

“Julian always reads at school; he always reads at home,” she said. “He loves reading.”l

When you need emergency care fast, the closest emergency room is a smart thing to know. You never know the level of care you’ll need when an emergency happens and choosing the right ER can make all the difference. And a hospital ER comes with the confidence of additional services right on-site.

CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – Salt Lake has been awarded Chest Pain Center Accreditation from the American College of Cardiology (ACC). Facilities that achieve accreditation meet or exceed an array of stringent criteria for evaluating, diagnosing and treating patients who may be experiencing a heart attack.

Find emergency care close to you at mountain.commonspirit.org.

(TTY: 711).

Sixth-grader Cali Strong, who read nearly 77 hours, was Viewmont Elementary’s Road to Success bike winner. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

First headliner is international recording artist Loren Allred

Coming soon: A grand return for Murray’s iconic theater

By Shaun Delliskave s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

Coming soon to a theater near you… is the theater itself. Murray City’s beloved Murray Theater is stepping back into the spotlight with a striking new look — and a star-studded reopening.

In early July, city officials unveiled the theater’s freshly restored marquee, trading the faded blue background for a dazzling neon-red Art Deco sign that pays homage to the original

1940’s design. The vintage glow brings back a touch of old Hollywood glamour to State Street, signaling that Murray’s historic entertainment hub is ready for its next act.

Adding to the excitement, the city announced the theater’s first headliner for its much-anticipated grand reopening: international recording artist and former Murray resident Loren Allred. Allred, known for her powerhouse vocals on “Never Enough” from “The Greatest Showman” and her tours alongside legends like David Foster and Andrea Bocelli, will take the revamped stage at the end of September. l

Murray celebrates Fourth of July with annual parade

Spots for camp chairs along State Street were picked out days in advance of Murray’s annual Fourth of July parade. Miss Murray royalty adorned the front of the Love, Murray float. l

My wife, Jann, and I chose to raise our two sons here because of our deep love for this community and have been proud to call Murray home for the past 35 years. Now, I’m running for City Council to continue the necessary work of ensuring Murray grows responsibly and thrives economically, while protecting the things that make Murray so special.

DALE IS COMMITTED TO

The Murray Theater with its neon-red Art Deco-style sign. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)

Photo by Tom Haraldsen

From $300 dreams to $1,000 realities—barbecue ain’t for the faint of heartburn

Rainy days can be a food truck’s biggest villain.

By Shaun Delliskave s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

WhenKenneth Hunt rolled into Utah in the summer of 2019, he brought with him a weathered smoker, years of culinary experience and an unwavering Texas pride. Now, six years later, he’s the owner and sole operator of Hunt’s Texas BBQ, a mobile barbecue operation serving slow-cooked brisket and pulled pork to hungry customers across the Salt Lake Valley. But behind the smell of mesquite smoke and the sizzle of meat is a oneman production fueled by grit, consistency and a love for the craft.

“My wife and two kids moved down here from Houston in June of 2019,” Hunt recalled. “After living in the Houston area for 40-plus years, I’ve had my fair share of hurricanes and storms and whatnot…we were just at the point to where we were tired of redoing a house and dealing with floods and everything that came along bad—the chemical plants and everything like that.”

Utah, with its mountain views and considerably less humidity, offered a fresh start.

“I’ve always enjoyed barbecuing for friends and family and coworkers and stuff like that, so I figured I’d take a shot. We bought this trailer, added some pits, and that was 6 years ago. Been going strong since then,” he said.

But “going strong” doesn’t mean it’s easy. Hunt runs the truck solo, managing the entire operation from purchasing to prep to service. His wife, a schoolteacher, is busy during the academic year, leaving Hunt to wear every hat in the business.

“I pretty much do all my shopping and scheduling and whatnot,” he said. “So it gets a little hectic and crazy trying to juggle every hat to wear and still put out some great Texas barbecue.”

The day often begins before sunrise. The raspy voiced entrepreneur still maintains his friendly Texas drawl.

“I start cooking about six in the morning. And of course, these briskets—shoot—they go 10 to 12 hours at least, so nothing’s really served day-of. I’m smoking briskets constantly and pork butts. But with barbecue, there is no exact time. When they’re done, they let you know they’re done.”

That intuition—listening to the meat— comes from experience, not a recipe book. Once cooked, meats are wrapped and refrigerated until serving.

Unlike a brick-and-mortar restaurant, a food truck requires strategy: site scouting, setup and building a customer base from scratch. Hunt wasn’t sure if Utah was going to be a permanent home, so the trailer offered flexibility.

“With the price of real estate for a storefront, you gotta put a big investment into that and really, really, really want to stay here and put down roots. With that being said, it’s a lot

easier to chase the money, per se, with the food truck,” he said.

His livelihood was temporarily derailed as vandals hit his trailer one night. It took several days to get it in operating order.

And chasing the money means learning the terrain. Not every event is a winner.

“I remember my first year or so—if I could go out anywhere and make $300, I thought I was doing something really good,” Hunt said. “Now, six years later, those times have changed drastically.”

He’s learned which locations and partnerships are profitable, and which aren’t. For example, events with the local Food Truck League can be a double-edged sword.

“They’re great for starting out and stuff like that, but they do charge us food trucks 10%,” Hunt explained. “So always having to pay somebody money to do your own stuff is not really the best choice. You go out with 10 different trucks and some days it’s hard to make $1,000—you might only do $300 or $400. And for me, that’s not really sustainable.”

There’s also the logistical gamble of having too much food left over—a cardinal sin in Hunt’s book.

If he does bring anything back, it usually doesn’t excite his family. “After six years, my family really doesn’t care to dine on barbecue for dinner any longer.”

When the weather cooperates, business is better. “The rain is the only thing that'll stop me from serving. Nobody really wants to come out in the rain,” he said. “The snow—there’s no real problem here in Utah with the snow. People are used to it.”

Running the truck isn’t just about cooking—it’s also about customer service. And sometimes, that requires quick triage.

“There’s some people that want to be catered to when they come to you,” Hunt said. “And if there’s 20 people in line, you don’t always have that extra four minutes to sit and chat. Some people might get upset that I have to rush you through the line, but if it’s snowing outside, nobody really wants to wait 40 minutes to get their plate.”

Still, he makes time when he can. “If you

still want to chat when I’m done, more than happy to come outside the trailer and talk to you.”

Some days, he runs the truck five or six days a week. Other weeks, only twice. That’s the balance he tries to strike between work and life.

“My wife is a teacher and she’s off for summer, so there are times that I want to spend a couple days with her. We’ll take a vacation. I might cancel some events just so I can spend more time. Because it’s not always just about work.”

Even after six years, the flame hasn’t gone out.

“I still enjoy doing it,” he said. “I don’t know what else I’d do right now. After six

years of doing this—I still love it.”

You can find Hunt’s Texas BBQ trailer next location on Facebook or Instagram.l

Kenneth Hunt stands between his barbecue smokers and equally large Texas flag. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)

Kenneth Hunt checks on his smokers before serving some fresh brisket. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)

Kenneth Hunt goes over the menu with a customer.(Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)

AGES 3 TO ADULT

FREQUENTLY REQUESTED NUMBERS

Attorney 801-264-2640

Business Licensing 801-270-2425

Administrative O ce .......... 801-264-2780 Non-Emergency Calls 801-840-4000

General Information ................ 801-264-2525

Human Resources.................... 801-264-2656 Library 801-264-2580

Mayor’s O ce 801-264-2600 Municipal Court....................... 801-284-4280

PARKS AND RECREATION

Administrative O ce

801-264-2614

Recreation Division 801-264-2614

Museum 801-264-2589

Murray Outdoor Pool 801-290-4190

Murray Parkway Golf Course.... 801-262-4653

The Park Center 801-284-4200

Senior Recreation Center

801-264-2635

POLICE DEPARTMENT

Administrative O ce .......... 801-264-2673

Animal Control/SL County 385-468-7387

MAYOR’S MESSAGE

Here in Murray City, we’re proud to be part of a close-knit community where neighbors care for neighbors. You see that spirit of sel ess service every day in the dedication of our rst responders. Our police o cers, re ghters, paramedics, and emergency personnel quietly and courageously serve on the front lines, ensuring the safety and well-being of all who call Murray home. I’m deeply grateful for their commitment, and I know many of you are too.

That’s why I’d like to personally invite you and your family to join us for the 2025 Community Safety Fair, a fun, educational evening where we get together to honor those who protect us. Whether you’ve lived in Murray your whole life or just recently moved here, this event is a wonderful opportunity to connect with neighbors, meet our local rst responders, and enjoy an evening full of activities for all ages.

Monday, August 25, 2025

6:00 pm – 8:30 pm

Murray Park – Pavilion #5

292 E. Murray Park Avenue

There will be something for everyone to enjoy—from thrilling live demonstrations to interactive safety experiences and plenty of great food. Here’s a preview of what’s in store:

MAYOR’S OFFICE

Code Enforcement 801-264-2673

Non-Emergency Calls ......... 801-840-4000

POWER DEPARTMENT

Administrative O ce .......... 801-264-2730

After Hours Emergency 801-264-9669

PUBLIC SERVICES

Administrative O ce 801-270-2440

Building Inspection 801-270-2431

Green Waste Trailers ........... 801-270-2440

Planning and Zoning 801-270-2430

Solid Waste 801-270-2440

Water, Sewer, Streets .......... 801-270-2440

Zoning Enforcement ........... 801-270-2426

UTILITIES

After Hours Emergency 801-264-9669

Billing Questions 801-264-2626 murray.utah.gov

Brett A. Hales -Mayor mayor@murray.utah.gov 801-264-2600 10 East 4800 South Murray, Utah 84107

• Live Police & Fire Demonstrations. See rsthand how our emergency teams respond in real-time, including a house re burn demonstration.

• SWAT Team Showcase. Watch specialized o cers demonstrate their tools and tactics.

• Vehicle Extrication & Fire Simulation. Learn how crews safely rescue trapped individuals in vehicle res.

• Medical Helicopter Landing. Witness a medical chopper land in the park and meet the ight crew.

• Seatbelt Safety Activities. Hands-on experiences that highlight the importance of buckling up.

• Bicycle Safety Course. A kid-friendly course to promote safe biking and helmet use.

• Vendor Booths. Explore safety resources & talk with public safety partners.

• Food Trucks. Enjoy a bite to eat while you take it all in.

Join us in making safety something we all share. Come say hello, learn something new, and enjoy the energy of neighbors coming together to keep Murray strong.

I look forward to seeing you there!

MESSAGE FROM THE COUNCIL

Arlette Hart Day – “Love, Murray”

I had the honor of speaking at the opening of the new Murray Museum, now located in the beautifully renovated Murray Mansion. As part of my remarks, I highlighted several individuals who have made signi cant contributions to our city. One woman who truly impressed me was Arlette Hart Day.

Not long after that event, my daughter held a piano recital for her students at the Arlette Day Cultural Center, located inside Day Murray Music. Hanging in the recital room was a portrait of Arlette, accompanied by a list of her many achievements. One particularly touching item was a framed 1984 “Woman of the Year” award presented by The Green Sheet newspaper.

Arlette Hart was born in Preston, Idaho, in 1916. She attended grade school and high school in Logan, and went on to study at Utah State University.

In 1946, she met her husband, John Millard Day, at Sugarhouse Music. Just one week before their wedding, the couple opened Day Murray Music, a business that has remained in the same building ever since and is still operated by their family nearly 80 years later. Arlette continued to work at the store she loved until she retired at the age of 88. Next year will mark Day Murray Music’s 80th anniversary!

Arlette immediately became active in civic life. She was the rst woman to serve as president of the Murray Chamber of Commerce. She spent eight years on the Murray Library Board and wrote much of The History of Murray - 486 pages! In July 1976, she chaired the city’s Bicentennial Parade. She was a charter member of the Murray Education Foundation, a Lifetime Member of the Utah PTA, and a tireless advocate for the creation of the Heritage Center, now the beloved Murray Senior Recreation Center.

Her passion for the arts was just as strong. Arlette served as Executive Director of both the Murray Symphony and Symphonic Band. She was a charter member of the Murray Arts Council and helped raise funds for the Murray Amphitheater. She also sponsored the Arlette Day Piano Competition for nine years, co-founded the Murray Museum, and received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Murray Rotary Club.

Arlette Hart Day loved Murray deeply. She raised a family, ran a business, and gave back to her community through decades of service and leadership. I only have space to mention a few of her many accomplishments, but the impact of her work is still felt—and seen—throughout the city.

Her life is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we choose to get involved. Arlette was, in every sense, the embodiment of “Love, Murray.”

—Pam Cotter, Council District #2

Murray Senior Recreation Center

10 E 6150 S, Murray, Utah 84107 • 801-264-2635 mcreg.com • seniorrec@murray.utah.gov murray.utah.gov/140Senior-Recreation-Center

Mon-Fri 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Thurs 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. • Closed Sat and Sun

Check our website for updated information.

CHEF OMAR LIMON

DAILY LUNCH

Date: Tuesday through Friday

Time: 11:30 a.m. – noon

Cost: Cost is $6; prior reg. not required CLASSES

CERAMICS

Date: Tuesday and Thursday

Time: 9:00 a.m. – noon

Cost: $2 each class plus cost of supplies

GRIEF SUPPORT

Date: Friday, Aug. 22

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Cost: Free

BIOMECHANICS OF FUNCTIONAL MOVEMENT

Date: Thursday, Aug. 28 and Sept. 11

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Cost: Free

SCIENCE CLASS: SCIENCE MARCHES ON

Date: Thursday, Sep. 4

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Cost: Free

NUTRITION: MEDITERRANEAN DIET

Date: Tuesday, Sep. 9

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Cost: Free

DANCE

BEGINNING LINE DANCE INSTRUCTION

Date: Tuesdays

Time: 1:15 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Cost: $5 for the month; register now

THURSDAY EVENING SOCIAL DANCE

Live Music provided by Tony Summerhays

Date: Thursdays

Time: 7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Cost: $5

FITNESS: DAILY FITNESS CLASSES

Check our current newsletter for the schedule and fees PROGRAMS BINGO

Date: Wednesdays and Fridays

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.

Cost: Free, donations are appreciated BRIDGE LESSONS

Date: Mondays

Time: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Cost: Free

CANASTA

Date: Tuesdays

Time: 12:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Cost: Free

CHESS *NEW*

Date: Thursdays

Time: 12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Cost: Free

HAND AND FOOT CARD GAME

Date: Mondays

Time: 12:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Cost: Free

MEXICAN TRAIN DOMINOS GAME

Date: Thursdays

Time: 12:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Cost: Free HEALTH SERVICES HAIRCUTS

Date: Wednesdays

Time: 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Cost: $12; advance appointment required CLUBS

THURSDAY QUILTERS

Date: 2nd Thursdays each month

Time: 12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Cost: Free

MURRAY SENIOR CHOIR

Date: Thursdays

Time: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Cost: Free

SPECIAL EVENT

‘TIS THE SEASON BOUTIQUE

Date: Monday, Oct. 13

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Cost: Free for the Public

Vendors email: SeniorRec@murray.utah.gov

Vendor table fee: $40 for an 8’ table

CITY COUNCIL

City Council District #1

Paul Pickett

801-743-0911

ppickett@murray.utah.gov

Council District 2

Pam Cotter

801-541-8364

pcotter@murray.utah.gov

Council District 3

Scott Goodman

801-699-6631

agoodman@murray.utah.gov

Council District 4

Diane Turner

801-635-6382

diane.turner@murray.utah.gov

City Council District #5

Adam Hock

801-557-1346

ahock@murray.utah.gov

Executive Director

Jennifer Kennedy Office: 801-264-2622

jkennedy@murray.utah.gov

Telephone Agenda Information 801-264-2525

Our summer amphitheater season is here! This year, you’ll be able to choose your seats in advance, so be sure to get your tickets early for the best selection. Join us for a season of unforgettable performances! Tickets are available online at the link below, or in person at the Parks and Recreation O ce, Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 4 PM, located at 296 E Murray Park Ave, Murray.

Ages 3-6

Mondays starts Sept 8

BASEBALL

Ages 6-12

Wednesdays starts Sept 10

BASKETBALL

Ages 6-9

Fridays starts Sept 5

Ages 10-14

Saturdays starts Sept 6

Triathlon Ages 5+

Labor Day September 1

FLAG

Ages 6-12

Tues/Sat starts Sept 13

VOLLEYBALL

Ages 9-14

Wednesday starts Sept 3

CROSS COUNTRY

Year Born 2011-18

Tue, Thu, Fri starts Sept 4

Parent/Child Kickball

Parent/Child Wiffle Ball

Starting August 15 & 20

Massive Galleria project moves forward with 639 units

Galleria subdivision to include 420 apartments.

By Shaun Delliskave s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

The Murray City Planning Commission on June 5 unanimously approved both preliminary and final subdivision plans for the 49th Street Galleria subdivision, advancing a key step for a large mixed-use development in the city’s central district.

The 26-acre property at 4998 South Galleria Drive is part of a master plan approved by the commission in August 2024. The development, spearheaded by Cottonwood Residential, will ultimately include 639 residential units and 18,900 square feet of commercial space.

The overall master plan as stated in the staff report includes 639 total housing units, but for the subdivision being discussed, the lots above break down to about 512 units, so the remaining 127 units may be accounted for in other parts of the master site plan or future phases.

The latest application focuses solely on subdividing the single parcel into six individual lots. Senior Planner Zach Smallwood, presenting for staff, described the request as a technical step to “separate the townhome portion of the project from the rest of the property.” He added, “This is not a re-review of the project itself. This is just a subdivision review, looking

at how they propose to carve up the lots.”

Under the approved plan, Lot 1 will host a commercial building of about 10,000 square feet. Lots 2, 3, and 5 will contain various townhome configurations, while Lot 4 will include 350 garden-style (three-story) apartments. Lot 6 will hold a 70-unit podium-style building. According to Smallwood, the project remains consistent with the Murray Central Mixed Use (MCMU) zoning requirements. “The proposed subdivision complies with the standards of the Murray Subdivision Code,” he said.

Cottonwood Residential’s Tyler Morris told commissioners that subdividing the lots gives the project flexibility. “What we want to do is we would love for the commercial building to be owned by an owner-user who can own it and use it rather than us building it spec,” Morris said. He explained that the townhome lots may become for-sale units instead of rentals: “Pulling them apart like this doesn’t guarantee they’ll be for sale, but it makes i t possible.”

A total of 137 notices were sent to surrounding property owners within 400 feet. The city received only one call seeking clarification before the hearing. One property owner, Michael Todd, who owns an adjacent parcel, voiced concern about the impact on his efforts to sell his Desert Star Theatrics property by Galleria Drive, which he described as prone to unauthorized camping.

“I don’t have any problem at all with

what they’re proposing to develop,” Todd told the commission during public comment. “But we’ve had a heck of a time keeping this site anything but a homeless camp. We’ve spent a lot of money trying to clean it up to sell it, and now the thistle has taken over again.”

Todd warned that if his parcel remains unsold, the site could revert to its prior condition. “Nobody’s going to win with that,” he said. Smallwood acknowledged Todd’s concern but noted, “All I can really do is encourage more discussion between the applicant and any interested party and working with Michael Todd if that’s the route they want to go.”

Several commissioners sought clarity on whether the subdivision would affect the broader site plan. Smallwood explained, “The master site review is the binding entitlement. It will be the same no matter what, unless they come for-

ward with an amendment.”

Commissioners also confirmed that any significant changes to design, unit counts or layout would need to return for review. “The merits of each of these projects as they come forthcoming in terms of development would still be reviewed, right?” asked one commissioner. Smallwood replied, “Yes, they’re still subject to that review.”

The motion passed with a unanimous roll call vote. The commission’s approval is subject to seven conditions, including meeting engineering, fire, power, water and wastewater requirements. The applicant must also record the subdivision plat within one year. The project will now proceed to final plat preparation and coordination with the Murray City Engineering Division before recordation at the Salt Lake County Recorder’s Office.l

These apartments will border the area between Vine Street and Galleria Drive. (Photo courtesy of Murray City)

Internet Essentials connects Utah communities

Utah.”

By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com

Students are heading back to school and reliable internet access is more important than ever. Digital connection is necessary for online learning, enabling connection and collaboration for kids and parents alike. With Comcast Internet Essentials, it’s easy to have the access needed for school, work or staying in touch with friends and family.

Internet Essentials provides affordable, high-speed internet access to eligible households at $14.95 each month. This low-cost option, with speeds up to 75 Mbps, is designed for everyday use that includes online meetings, video calling, digital workshops and more. For those who need higher speeds, Internet Essentials Plus offers up to 100 Mbps for $29.95 per month.

“This program has connected more than 234,000 Utahns to a fast, reliable internet connection,” said Deneiva Knight, External Affairs Director, Comcast Mountain West Region. “In addition to affordable internet and devices, Internet Essentials customers also gain access to free digital skills training and access to millions of free Xfinity WiFi hotspots across the country, including more than 356,000 in

Internet Essentials customers can also purchase a low-cost Dell laptop or Chromebook for $149.99, plus tax. Each device has the hardware and software needed to get online right away, which makes it ideal for students, remote workers, or anyone needing a dependable device at home.

To qualify for the Internet Essentials program, customers must participate in qualifying assistance programs, including housing assistance, Medicaid or SNAP. Applicants cannot be an existing Xfinity customer (within the last 90 days) and can have no outstanding balance with Comcast. To learn more, check eligibility or sign up, visit internetessentials.com or call 1-855-846-8376.

Internet Essentials is part of Comcast’s $1 billion initiative to connect people to the internet, create digital opportunity and build a future of possibilities. By expanding internet access and offering digital skills training, Comcast hopes to provide opportunities to people of all ages and income levels.

“For more than a decade, Comcast has stepped up to ensure everyone can stay connected to what matters most,” Knight said. “We believe everyone should be able to connect to the power of home internet. Whether in rural communities or urban centers, we are working to make the internet accessible to all.” l

Comcast’s Internet Essentials program allows lower-income households to access high-speed internet and purchase low-cost devices. (Photo courtesy of Comcast)

Salt Lake County Public Defender appointed to fill council vacancy

Democrats pick public defender Jiro Johnson to fill county council seat vacated by Arlyn Bradshaw.

By Shaun Delliskave s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

SaltLake County’s governing body has a new member with deep roots in the community and firsthand experience with some of its most pressing social challenges. Remington “Jiro” Johnson, an assistant director at the Salt Lake Legal Defender Association until this month, was appointed to the Salt Lake County Council in mid-June to represent District 1.

Johnson, who is 39, was chosen by the Salt Lake County Democratic Party to succeed Arlyn Bradshaw, who stepped down after 14 years to join the office of County Mayor Jenny Wilson. Under Utah law, when a partisan seat is vacated midterm, the political party of the departing member fills the vacancy.

The race to replace Bradshaw drew unusually high interest, with 17 Democrats filing to be considered. One candidate withdrew before voting, leaving 16 contenders, including nonprofit leaders, community organizers, and experienced political staffers. The par-

ty’s central committee used a ranked-choice voting system to whittle the field in multiple rounds. Johnson ultimately emerged as the winner after 13 rounds of balloting, receiving 53 votes to edge out his nearest rival by six votes. He was formally sworn in days later during a brief ceremony at the County Council offices.

District 1 includes much of Salt Lake City, South Salt Lake, and parts of West Valley City. It covers neighborhoods that range from historic eastside areas to diverse west-

side communities like Glendale and Rose Park. The district is home to major commercial corridors, public transit lines, the Jordan River corridor, and much of the county’s urban homeless population. It has long been a Democratic stronghold in a county where political control is closely contested between Democrats and Republicans.

Johnson was born and raised in Salt Lake City’s Liberty Wells neighborhood. He attended West High School and earned a Bach-

elor of Science in Political Science with a minor in history from the University of Utah. While in college, he served as president of the Young Democrats of Utah and completed a Hinckley Institute internship at the Utah Legislature.

He went on to earn his Juris Doctor degree from George Washington University Law School in Washington, D.C., graduating with honors as both a George Washington and Thurgood Marshall Scholar. While in law school, he worked at the Federal Election Commission, focusing on campaign finance investigations, and contributed to the Federal Circuit Bar Journal.

After clerking and practicing in Washington, Johnson returned to Utah in 2013 and joined Manning Curtis Bradshaw & Bednar, where he worked on complex civil and employment litigation cases. Two years later, he moved into public defense, joining the Salt Lake Legal Defender Association, where he rose to an assistant director role overseeing operations and training. The office handles thousands of cases each year for clients who cannot afford private attorneys, many of whom face challenges related to housing insecurity, substance use or mental health needs.

Beyond his day job, Johnson has served as president of the Utah Minority Bar Association and sat on the board of LGBTQ+ and Allied Lawyers of Utah. He has taught legal courses at the Utah State Prison and has mentored young attorneys entering the public sector.

Johnson has emphasized that he sees the County Council role as an extension of his work advocating for underrepresented and underserved communities. He has said he will focus on housing affordability, better support for unhoused residents, and treatment-based alternatives to incarceration for people with mental illness or substance use disorders.

His district includes some of the county’s highest concentrations of homelessness, with many residents struggling to secure stable housing. Salt Lake City and surrounding areas have experienced ongoing debates over the siting of shelters, affordable housing development, and the balance between enforcement and social services.

He is the first Black and Japanese-American representative to serve in this role. He uses his Japanese middle name “Jiro” professionally, reflecting his mixed heritage and his commitment to greater representation of historically marginalized communities.

Johnson’s appointed term runs through January 2027, the end of Bradshaw’s original term. He has already indicated he plans to run in 2026 for a full four-year term representing District 1.l

Public defender Jiro Johnson was appointed to the county council. (Photo courtesy Salt Lake Legal Defender Association)

Jiro Johnson takes the oath of office. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)

Bridging the gap: Making farm-to-fork products affordable

Misconceptions about the cost of locally-produced food keep some families from enjoying the benefits.

By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com

Local farmers markets are welcome events, recognized for delivering fresh, seasonal produce and food items. But for some families, the price of farm-fresh products seems to be too high, creating a nutritional divide for lower-income households.

Natalie Loots wants to change that narrative. She is the Community Food Security Program manager with the Utah Department of Health and Human Services and said there are several programs available to make farmers markets accessible and affordable.

“Our main goal is to make local foods, like fruits and vegetables and other high-nutrition foods more affordable for low-income folks,” Loots said. “Our main program that we operate is called the Double Up Food Bucks program, which has been around since 2015.”

With Double Up Food Bucks, people enrolled in the SNAP program can get up to $20 of free Utah-grown produce with every visit to a participating market. The program offers a dollar-for-dollar match, up to $20, matching SNAP benefits.

“If folks go to the information booth at the farmers market, they swipe their SNAP card and they’ll get tokens for SNAP and then tokens for Double Up to use at the different vendors at the market. There’s no paperwork they need to fill out. All they have to do is have a valid SNAP card that is currently active.”

Loots said the CFSP works to eliminate barriers that limit access to nutritionally-dense foods. Initiatives like the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program offers low-income seniors a $50 farmers market voucher to use throughout the season. Utah Produce Rx partners with local healthcare clinics to create a $300 fruit and vegetable prescription patients can use at participating farmers markets.

Caroline Hargraves serves as the marketing director for the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food’s economic development division. She said while prices might be higher on some items at farmers markets, the food quality and nutritional value is much better than what can be found in many grocery stores.

“I think a lot of people don’t understand that it takes time, energy and labor to produce food. We have such a culture in America of expecting food to be cheap but people who produce it deserve a living wage,” Hargraves said. “Farmers get such a small portion of the dollar that the average consumer pays at the grocery store and I think people don’t understand that. But when you buy directly from farmers at a

farmers market, that money is going directly to them.”

Utah’s DHHS operates a local food purchasing assistance program to help socially disadvantaged farm owners. Since the spring of 2022, the program has purchased food from local farmers to distribute to families experiencing food insecurity.

More than 60,000 individuals have received farm fresh food at nearly 600 distri-

bution events across the state. This will be the last summer the program will be utilized, as federal funding has been cut, but organizers are looking for additional funding sources.

A 2025 Utah State University study, Cultivating Community and Commerce: A Summary of the Statewide Social and Economic Impacts of Utah Farmers Markets, found that farmers markets offer more than

just fresh produce. Communities hosting farmers markets fostered community connection, empowered small businesses and contributed to the state’s economy.

The study also found food deserts are prevalent in the state. These areas have limited access to nutritious food, affecting more than 800,000 Utah residents. Farmers markets address this dire need, so affordability is key.

“We have several initiatives at the Department of Agriculture and Food to encourage people to support local farmers and ranchers,” Hargraves said. “It does make a difference, both for that individual, like a farmer or business owner, and for the community. The more dollars we can keep circulating in our local economy, the better. But also it tastes better. With local foods, you can taste the difference.”

For more information about farmers markets affordability programs, or to find participating markets, visit uah.org/get-help.

“Our work is aiming to make food security accessible in a way that it functions as a social determinant of health,” Loots said. “Farmers markets are for everybody, and we try to make eating local produce accessible to everybody…Access to healthy foods affects chronic disease outcomes or health outcomes, longevity and quality of life. Those are so deeply connected.” l

Locally produced food has better health benefits and can be more affordable than people realize. (Canva stock)

Larkin Mortuary’s dedication to the Utah community is deeply rooted in its history and family values. For over 140 years, spanning seven generations, the Larkin family has proudly served Utah families in their time of need. This commitment extends beyond providing funeral services; Larkin Mortuary actively engages with the community by hosting events and giving back through various service initiatives such as the annual Memorial Day Program, golf tournament, Trunk or Treat and Live Nativity.

Have you ever wondered what Salt Lake County actually does? If you live in one of the 23 cities in our area—like Murray, West Valley, South Jordan or Millcreek—you might think the county doesn’t affect your daily life. But the truth is, Salt Lake County helps all of us in big and important ways. Everyone who lives in the Salt Lake Valley is part of Salt Lake County.

Salt Lake County is like the glue that holds many parts of our community together. While cities take care of things like neighborhood parks and snow plowing on local streets, the county provides services that work best when shared by everyone. These regional services save money and help us all live better.

What Services Does Salt Lake County Provide?

Let’s break it down. Salt Lake County helps in areas like:

- Public Safety and Criminal Justice: The county runs the jail, provides prosecutors and public defenders, and helps with emergency response. In fact, public safety is the county’s biggest responsibility—it makes up over 74% of the county’s general fund.

- Elections: The county clerk makes

sure elections are fair and secure. Cities contract with the county clerk for their municipal elections.

- Health Department: The county helps keep our community healthy by inspecting restaurants, giving vaccines, and cleaning up unsafe places like abandoned camps.

- Senior Services: Through programs like Meals on Wheels and senior centers, the county helps older adults stay active and connected.

- Mental Health and Addiction: The county leads programs for people who need support with mental illness or substance abuse, partnering with other groups to reach more people.

- Libraries: The Salt Lake County Library system serves most of the area (Mur-

ray and Salt Lake City have their own), giving people access to books, computers and classes.

- Parks and Recreation: From big parks and trails to swimming pools and rec centers, the county helps families stay active both indoors and outdoors.

- Arts and Tourism: The county owns facilities like Abravanel Hall and the Capitol Theatre, and brings in out-of-state visitors through conventions and tourism, which boosts our economy. The county owns the Salt Palace and Mountain America Expo Center.

- Property Tax and Land Records: The county collects property taxes (even for cities and schools) and keeps track of land ownership and real estate records.

A Government That’s Smart With Your Money

Salt Lake County has a budget of about $2 billion. While that sounds like a lot, only part of it is under the County Council’s full control. About $500 million of the total budget is what we call “passthrough” taxes—meaning the county collects it and passes it to others, like UTA or cities.

To stay financially strong, the Salt Lake County Council keeps a close eye on

spending. They’ve helped the county keep a AAA bond rating—the highest possible score, showing the county is careful with its money. The council also does stress tests and checks each department regularly to look for savings and to improve services.

Utah law doesn’t let counties collect more money just because home values rise. Instead, counties can only collect more if there’s new growth, like a new building. That keeps taxes fair, but it also means the council has to plan ahead and budget wisely.

One County. Many Communities. One Mission.

Salt Lake County doesn’t replace cities—it supports them. Whether your city needs help with road signs, snow removal or mapping, the county can step in with expertise and resources. It’s about teamwork.

The county’s job is to serve, support and strengthen every community in the region. By managing big services, using your tax dollars wisely, and working across city borders, Salt Lake County makes life better for all of us.

So next time you vote, enjoy a park, visit the library, or call for help—remember, Salt Lake County is there for you. l

August is National Self Awareness Month

There was no “gentle parenting” in the ’70s, especially at the dinner table. You either ate what was prepared for you, or you were labeled a sniveling, spoiled brat who didn’t care if children in China starved because you wouldn’t eat your meatloaf.

One time, I was forced to stay at the table until I’d eaten all my potatoes. I blame my dad. He had told me that potatoes have eyes and then lost his mind when I refused to eat mashed potatoes. I was convinced the lumps were eyeballs and I was not about to eat potato eyeballs.

I wasn’t trying to be picky, I just didn’t like things that were mushy, smelly, runny, squishy, eggy or slathered in mayo.

Grandma Stewart considered me the most coddled child in history. She could not fathom how I could reject her slimy bowl of lima beans, which included (if memory serves) onions, ham, shampoo and arsenic.

“If you don’t eat your lima beans, it just means you're spoiled,” she huffed when I put my head on the table to cry. She said the same thing when I refused to eat bread crust, cottage cheese, tuna fish or canned beets.

Side note: Grandma loved Jordan almonds, the only food she refused to share. She’d hide them from the grandkids because she knew we’d eat them. We scoured the cabinets until we found them and devoured every last one. I think that’s called a self-ful-

Foods that ruined my childhood

Peri

Kinder Life and Laughter

filling prophecy, Grandma.

As a kid, terrible food was everywhere. If I wasn’t being subjected to a disgusting recipe Mom found in a McCall’s magazine, I was being betrayed by school lunch ladies. They’d slide a quivering square of delicious cherry Jell-O, topped with whipped cream, onto my lunch tray. But the joke was on me when I took a big bite of the tasty dessert only to learn it was sour cream, not whipped cream. Who does that to a child? Sadists, that’s who!

While eating dinner at a friend’s house, her mom shamed me for not eating the disgusting canned peas. So, I ate it and cried. It was just another meal I was forced to eat, like a hostage.

Sometimes, I’d take a proactive approach when it came to avoiding foods I didn’t like. Mom often made chicken pockets, which were shredded chicken mixed with cream cheese, baked into crescent roll dough. I hated cream cheese (mushy,

smelly). When I saw it in the fridge, I cried. I hid the box of cream cheese behind the wilted lettuce in the vegetable bin, but Mom always found it.

Other ploys included acting sick (rarely worked), “forgetting” about dinner while playing outside (never worked), pretending to sleep on the couch (sometimes worked) and throwing a fit at the dinner table (never worked, plus I lost dessert).

I don’t know why Mom refused to accommodate my delicate palate. I was only repulsed when it came to sauces, dressings, mustard, canned foods, Vienna sausages, tuna, cottage cheese, sour cream, maple syr-

up, vegetables, macaroni salad, yogurt, the textured vegetable protein popular in the ’70s or anything slathered in mayo. It didn’t matter. I was expected to “Learn to like it, or else!” Or else, what? A grateful digestive system? A lack of nightmares? A healthy relationship to food? With four daughters, I understand how hard it is to make meals for ungrateful children. I’ve had daughters who refused to eat pizza, spaghetti, meat, dairy products, lasagna, hamburger casserole or anything with onions. They probably have their own list of foods that ruined their childhood. That’s what therapists are for. l

MEET DR. HARARAH, M.D.

Dr. Hararah, a triple board-certified physician, completed his residency in Family Medicine at NYU Langone and a fellowship in Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine/Wound Care at SUNY Upstate University Hospital. With additional training in Bariatric Medicine and certification from the American Board of Obesity Medicine, he brings expertise in primary care, dive medicine, bariatric medicine, and clinical hyperbarics.

A firm believer in the biopsychosocial approach, Dr. Hararah views patients as complex individuals whose lives and experiences shape their healthcare. Known for his compassionate care and dedication, he listens intently, prioritizes your well-being, and works to find the best diagnosis and treatment plan.

As the owner of Riverstone Medical, Dr. Hararah is committed to helping you achieve your best health.

Hararah