Riverton Journal | September 2026 by The City Journals

September 2026 | Vol. 35 Iss. 9

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Riverton’s Friday Fun Night on Aug. 7 featured a live band, food, local vendors, and more.

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or the month of August, Riverton puts on its Friday Fun Nights for the community. At Riverton City Park, locals gather to enjoy vendors, food trucks, yard games and warm weather. On Aug. 7, Friday Fun Nights featured live music. This event proved to be an important thing for the locals to look forward to. The band Sean’s Garage was featured, which added to the carefree, summertime atmosphere. The band played a variety of covers while people set up lawn chairs and watched. It was a fitting centerpiece to the night as people bought treats and played yard games. Festivities like this are big for the band, too. “These types of events are where live music thrives the most,” David Martin said, a member of Sean’s Garage. Sean’s Garage also showed a lot of care for the community. They have worked with Riverton in other events as well, including one called Live in Real Life which was meant to raise mental health awareness. “We would do a number and then have an inspirational speaker,” Martin said. The band demonstrated this same level of care for their performances on Aug. 7. The music was generally covers of classic songs. “The Beatles are a big inspiration… but we have branched out to a lot of top 40 stuff,” Martin said. The community could enjoy these familiar songs while they went

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The booths where vendors sold their items. (Tyler McFadden/City Journals)

from activity to activity. Friday Fun Nights attracted local artists and businesses. Out on the lawn, people set up a variety of booths selling knickknacks, cotton candy and more. The public had a chance to wander through these little shops while they listened to music. It also gave a chance for local businesses to thrive, similar to a farmer’s market. Food trucks were parked in the parking lot for those looking for something to munch on. Burgers, ice cream and tacos were among the food out in the parking lot. It was a way

for locals to get a meal or a cold treat after doing some shopping in the heat. Kids who were sick of the intense heat had a chance to cool off in the splash pad. Parents could sit on nearby benches and listen to the music while their kids cooled off. There were also nearby playgrounds, which made it even more accessible for kids. In the shady areas of the park, there were summer yard games set up, like spike ball or axe throwing. Or, in the more open areas, some people brought soccer balls to kick around. People of all ages had something to

do at Friday Fun Nights. The event had an impressive turnout; the locals were clearly excited to have something to look forward to after a long work week. Each of the available activities were occupied by the public. Even those who just wanted to relax picked a place in the shade to simply enjoy the summer evening. Other Friday Fun Nights in August had movies in the park, chalk art, a barn dance and more bands. With a variety of things to expect from these nights, locals could come every Friday and enjoy something different. l

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Riverton City Journal

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GET TO THE RIVER! ALL SEPTEMBER! Enjoy experiences and make wonderful memories at Utah’s Jordan River Parkway throughout the month of September.

The Get to the River Festival is a month of recreational, cultural, social, educational, and stewardship activities and events. Join us for something familiar, or explore and discover something new. Check the Festival schedule and learn more at:

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Dozens of Free Community Events & Activities Throughout the Month Recreation Arts Community Education Stewardship

your watershed

LOVE YOUR WATERSHED Litter, chemicals, and organic material like leaves and pet waste, on our streets, sidewalks, and parking areas, wash into storm drains and then into lakes, streams, and the Jordan River each time it rains and snows, polluting these waterways. Organize a group clean up of the litter and leaves around the streets and storm drains in your neighborhood for the 9/11 National Day of Service & Remembrance. Each month, make a habit to clean up the gutter and storm drains in front of your own home or business.

L o veYo u r Wa t e r s h e d . o r g September 2026 | Page 3

COMMON GROUND

Property Rights Confuse Me

Common Ground will be a column of rotating viewpoints that highlight specific feelings across the political spectrum, and it will always end with possible ways to come together. Where do I stand on property rights? Simple: if I own it, then I should have absolute control over it. And If I bought it and it is next to your property, I should also have some control over yours. For those who have followed Common Ground, I have left no doubt I lean fairly strong to the right end of the political spectrum. So when writing an opinion piece representing that end of the spectrum with the topic of property rights, I was certain what I’d say. Then last night as I prepared to write this I got confused. I stopped and prayed: Dear God, am I becoming a Democrat? A quick trip to my gun safe confirmed that I am good. But I am still conflicted. I know where I stand on my property rights, not sure where I stand on your property rights. Well, let me be clear, unless your property is near mine, I actually just don’t care about yours. To not look evil I will pretend that I care and that you should have the same property rights as me. To unconfuse myself, I broke down property rights into three categories: the ability to own property, the ability to control property, and property taxes. I see each category, but am conflicted where these fall on the typical right-left spectrum. Is everyone a Republican when it comes to property rights? Or maybe

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John J Walker Common Ground

everyone is a Democrat? I don’t know but I can’t imagine a world where we agree on something. I agree with my dear friends from the left (yes I have a couple) that everyone should have the opportunity to buy and own their home. Home ownership is an important part of the American economy and society. I think we can all agree people should be able to own property (our own homes) and enjoy all the benefits from it, and we can all recognize that property rights are protected by the Constitution. So once you own it, what control do you have? Enter Jekyll or Hyde, I am not sure. On one hand, I want full control of my property. On the other hand, I want control of my neighbor’s property. Not full control but enough control to protect my property, property value and property rights. If I want to build a second story to my house and add a man cave garage in the backyard, hand me a hammer and shut your mouth; it’s my property. But if my neighbor wants to build an apartment on his lot, whoa whoa whoa. If my neighbor wants to

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Bryan Scott | bryan.s@thecityjournals.com

EDITOR

Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com

have 14 people live in his 3-bedroom house and each of them park a car on the front lawn, no way, not in my backyard and not in your front yard. Enter local zoning. WWII veterans should be the most respected people in America. Just behind them should be planning and zoning staff and volunteers. For now, my stance is that I should control my property and I should be able to do whatever I want to do with it. And I should also control your property so that it does not impact me and my property. Until you come up with a better plan, this is my plan. My first consideration concerning property taxes is back to property ownership. I question – do we really own property if we are required to pay forever to retain that ownership? When I go to the grocery store and buy a peach, I don’t have to pay for that peach the rest of my life. But when I buy a home, all of a sudden I have to pay property taxes for the rest of my life. Technically, I “own” my home in Bountiful, but I often say I “lease” it from Davis School District and Davis County. Our governor and state legislators in recent years have stated they want homes more affordable, but they have sat mostly idle while school districts, counties, and special districts have increased property taxes – making homes even more unaffordable.

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Our Republican-led legislature and governor have provided taxpayer money to help subsidize the purchase of homes. I am sure this feels good for them. I guess on some baseline it should feel good; they are helping people live the American dream. But they are taking money from all taxpayers to give to a select few. It is clear to me that we must allow the housing market to operate in a fair and open market. As per taxes – property taxes make sense; there is a need for the government to provide amenities (roads, sidewalks, water, utilities, etc.) to homeowners that are associated with homeownership. These are expenses that I require and the value of my property is dependent on. A home that doesn’t have water or access is ultimately worthless. But remind me why we cover schools with property taxes. Don’t get me wrong, we should fund schools so our children get the best education possible. In Utah, that should come from income tax. Our legislation has lowered income tax every year but they did not change the spending with school districts so where does that “savings” come from? It comes from property taxes – your income tax goes down and your property taxes go up. A game of political whack-a-mole: slash-a-tax.

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Prostate/ Breast Cancer

Fall Into Action: Tackle Cancer Screenings This Season

FALL IS MORE THAN football and pump-

kin spice – it’s time for men and women to prioritize their health. As September spotlights Prostate Cancer Awareness and October approaches with Breast Cancer Awareness, our local medical experts are issuing a direct call to our community. This is your cue: men, actively engage with your prostate health; women, prioritize your breast health. Early detection is the most powerful tool you have to protect your life and your loved ones. The statistics are sobering. For men, prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer, and tragically, it stands as the second leading cause of cancer death, surpassed only by lung cancer. Similarly, for women, breast cancer is a significant threat, also ranking as the second leading cause of cancer death, second only to lung cancer. These aren’t just abstract figures; they represent real individuals whose lives can be profoundly impacted by timely action. “Too often, men delay necessary screenings,” explains Dr. Pursifull, a urologist at Holy Cross Hospital – Mountain Point in Lehi. “But waiting for symptoms to appear

significantly reduces treatment options. Regular PSA blood tests and digital rectal exams are straightforward procedures that detect cancer early. Talk to your primary care physician about your risk factors, especially if you have a family history or are of African American descent. CommonSpirit hospitals offer comprehensive prostate cancer screenings and advanced treatment options.” For women, prioritizing breast health is equally critical. “Early detection is truly a game-changer when it comes to breast cancer,” states Dr. Raylene Natwick, a breast surgeon practicing at a Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley. “When breast cancer is identified early, the chances of successful treatment and a full recovery are remarkably higher. This is precisely why regular mammograms are so vital. They can detect subtle changes years before they would ever be palpable.” Dr. Natwick advises women to discuss screening guidelines starting around age 40, or earlier if risk factors warrant it. Monthly self-examinations and annual clinical breast exams are also crucial. “CommonSpirit hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art mam-

mography technology and a dedicated team ready to support women.” “As primary care providers, we are frequently the entry portal to the health care system.” said Dr. Grant Hawkins, an internal medicine physician with CommonSpirit in West Jordan. We encourage our patients to have their yearly wellness checkups. At that time we have the opportunity to review medical issues, make medication adjustments, discuss new concerns and arrange for screening tests that are so important in preventing serious problems in the future.” This Fall, make the decision to prioritize your health. Both prostate and breast cancer often have excellent prognoses when caught early. CommonSpirit hospitals are committed to providing accessible screenings, expert diagnostics, and leading-edge treatments. Schedule your screenings and engage in crucial conversations with your doctor. Your life, your future, and your well-being depend on it. For more information or to find a provider visit mountain.commonspirit.org SPONSORED CONTENT

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September 2026 | Page 5

A simple compound with a big impact: A walk to raise awareness for creatine deficiencies

Members of the community participated in the Walk for Strength to raise awareness for creatine disorders. While creatine seems simple, the Walk for Strength hopes to highlight just how important creatine deficiency research is. By Tyler McFadden t.mcfadden@mycityjournals.com

n late July members of the Bluffdale community gathered to join the Walk for Strength, an event that raises awareness for rare creatine deficiencies such as GAMT. The walk was organized by the Association for Creatine Deficiencies. “The event raised close to $11,000,” said Heidi Wallis, ACD’s executive director. The ACD and the Walk for Strength hope to educate people about creatine deficiencies, like how these disorders can be mistaken for many others. “The majority of people get an autism diagnosis,” Wallis said. The Walk for Strength hopes to spread the word about a disorder that not a lot of people know of. Wallis’s commitment to this project started with personal experience in her own family. “I

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The big group that participated in the Walk for Strength. (Photo courtesy Heidi Wallis)

have two kids with GAMT…once [my daughter] started getting creatine, she started speaking in full sentences,” Wallis said. Many other families experienced the same thing that Wallis did, even within the local community. Three families who attended the walk have children with creatine deficiencies. People gathered with matching T-shirts, all sharing similar experiences and goals. “It’s empowering, it makes you feel like you’re not alone… other people know what you have gone through,” Wallis said. Participants gathered under the hot sun to support the cause. “It was a small walk, but we have family and friends who donated,” Wallis said. Even if the walk was small, the importance of the work spreads far and wide. The ACD has done a lot of important work

when it comes to raising awareness. “We went to the federal government and said [screening newborns for creatine deficiencies] should be part of the screenings…Now, it is on the list for recommended screenings,” Wallis said. Work that started as a little thing in the community has had a tremendous impact on lives nationwide. The Walk for Strength aims to show people how important treatment is. “It’s crazy to think that this compound is taken for granted… we want to raise awareness for the power of creatine,” Wallis said. While creatine seems simple, the ACD and the Walk for Strength highlight just how vital it truly is. The ACD has big plans for the future as well; creatine deficiencies impact people everywhere, and this organization wants to help with that. “We’ve been working on translations and

getting materials to other countries,” Wallis said. This walk, while local, reaches much further than just Bluffdale; the whole world benefits from creatine research. The ACD is also putting in a lot of work for marginalized communities in different parts of the world. “We’ve got families in war zones…something to work on is getting creatine to those communities,” Wallis said. This organization recognizes the importance of creatine right here in Utah and also spreads awareness for the need for it worldwide. “If someone is getting creatine from birth, they can live a totally normal life,” Wallis said. The Association for Creatine Deficiencies puts on the Walk of Strength annually; it will continue to spread the word about a compound that is so often taken for granted. l

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Riverton City Journal

“My friends and family have been amazing over the years for encouragement and support,” Wilkinson said. (Glen Beeby/Intermountain Health)

RNS uses electrodes placed on the brain surface or in deeper brain areas to monitor brain waves. (Glen Beeby/Intermountain Health)

Smartchips monitoring human brain activity is no longer technology of the future

As a groundbreaking technology to treat epilepsy, 100 responsive neurostimulation devices have been implanted by Intermountain Health doctors. By Cassie Goff c.goff@mycityjournals.com

ne hundred brains now have electrodes monitoring their wave patterns and activity 24/7. These electrodes attached to a titanium battery and software chip are the main components of a new responsive neurostimulation (RNS) device, designed to treat focal epilepsy. “There are a lot of misconceptions about what seizures look like,” said Whitney Wilkinson, Sandy resident and RNS patient. “People who live with epilepsy every day… don’t let epilepsy stop them from doing things that they love.” Her doctor, Tawnya Constantino, MD,

Long-term studies show 3 out of 4 patients implanted with the RNS device experience a 50 percent or greater reduction in seizures. (Glen Beeby/Intermountain Health)

RivertonJournal .com

Clinical Neurophysician, and Epileptologist at Intermountain Medical Center, cites 1 to 2 percent of the population lives with epilepsy. “Way more people have it than before. Judges, teachers, nurses, police officers, any walk of life - we’ve seen it,” she said. She described most seizures as brief confusion episodes. Someone may stop what they’re doing, get a blank glassy stare, and not know what’s going on around them. Common symptoms also include the sensation of deja vu, terrible taste, and not being able to respond to people. “For many patients the fear of now knowing when or how bad a seizure can be gives them a constant anxiety in life and we want to change that,” said Jeff Bigelow, MD, Neurologist, and Medical Director of EEG Systems at Intermountain Health. RNS takes time to learn the individual brain it becomes attached to. It learns what individual abnormal brain activity is, detects what might be indicative of a seizure, and stops that seizure by sending an impulse milliseconds before it happens. “What’s really cool about this device is… a smart chip watching for abnormal brain activity to start and responding to that activity,” Constantino said. “I download the data from my brain about once per week. It provides information to the doctor about seizure activity so they can make small tweaks to optimize,” said Wilkinson. “It operates in the background and is completely undetectable.” “This is making an incredible difference in the lives of people who have suffered with seizures for years when other treatments haven’t worked,” Bigelow said. “The really sad statistic is the average

person with medication-resistant epileptic seizures are not referred to a specialist for many years, or up to decades,” Constantino said. Wilkinson decided it was time to try RNS after a lifetime of attempting to manage her epileptic symptoms. “I’ve tried multiple medications and have had two previous brain surgeries. Those were successful for about a year each time.” Wilkinson said. “(RNS) sounded relatively straightforward, as far as brian surgery goes.” Constantino described the implant process as a neurosurgeon cutting the window of the skull so the RNS device sits flat. Two electrode leads are put down in a specific part of the brain, where the focal point of the seizures has been previously identified. “I trust her with taking care of me as an epilepsy patient. I rely on her expertise,” Wilkinson said. “Some people will see impact in 6 months (to two years) of this device being implanted,” Constantino said. “People who have this device say it’s impacting their quality of life and confidence. It makes me continue to be really happy to be doing what I’m doing.” “RNS is a treatment rather than a cure,” Wilkinson said. “It can reduce the number or frequency of seizures rather than stop them altogether.” With an average 10-year lifespan, RNS was Neuropace and FDA-approved in 2013. After 5 years with her RNS, Wilkinson feels more confident navigating her everyday life. “I feel comfortable standing in front of my students as a professor in the classroom,” Wilkinson said. “RNS has made a big difference in improving the quality of life. It’s given me a positive outlook.” Both Wilkinson and Constantino hope

“There are many people around you who probably have epilepsy and you don’t know about it,” Wilkinson said. (Glen Beeby/Intermountain Health)

for a future with less stigma are epilepsy. “I’ve talked to so many patients who have been fired illegally,” Constantino said. Without accommodation, seizures may impact an employee’s work performance and ability to learn new things. Blue collar employers especially become frustrated by missing work days. “There are an increasing number of specialists in Utah. Most are clustered at the (University of Utah) or (Intermountain Medical Center’s Epilepsy Clinic in Murray,” Constantino said. “We hired new epilepsy specialists so we have extra bandwidth.” l

September 2026 | Page 7

Riverton celebrates America 250 with an accessible, educational exhibit, The Road to Liberty The Road to Liberty exhibit in Riverton offers a free experience for young and old to come and learn about colonial era America. By TylerMcFadden t.mcfadden@mycityjournals.com

Some replicas of colonial era clothing. (Tyler McFadden/City Journals)

n Riverton’s Old Dome Meeting Hall, the city has set up a free exhibit about the men and women involved in building our country. “I am amazed about how much they put their lives on the line…it’s not much different from today,” Vicki Wartman said, the arts administrator for Riverton City. This Road to Liberty exhibit packed a lot of information on the second floor of the building. The exhibit shows the many flags that the country has had throughout history. Guests can go around the room to see a timeline of the flag, seeing how the stars and stripes evolved throughout history. It gives people a chance to learn about versions of the flag they may not have known about. The exhibit features pictures of many founding fathers and a little biography about them. George Washington and John Adams were just two of the several who were given the spotlight here. The biographies gave a great deal of thoughtful insight into these names that we know well. There is special emphasis on the women from the colonial period. Around the room were portraits of the founding fathers’ wives, such as Martha Washington. Each portrait came with an informational biography that detailed the struggles and efforts of the women. An African-American poet, Phillis Wheatley, was honored with her own portrait and biography.

The public has had a very positive reaction to the exhibit. “This exhibit, more than any other, people stay for over an hour,” Wartman said. The locals were clearly very drawn to what this exhibit had to offer. In fact, the exhibit proved to be very popular with children. “Kids come through and teach me things because they’ve been learning them in school,” Wartman said. This exhibit gave kids the chance to show off what they’ve been learning. On the other hand of the spectrum, the exhibit resonated with older people as well. “We’ve had a lot of veterans, as well as kids,” Wartman said. Both young and old found things to enjoy and learn at the exhibit. Replicas of clothing and paintings were found throughout the exhibit as well. Visitors can get a glimpse into what the fashion was like at the time. The paintings depicted events from the Revolutionary War, such as the Boston Massacre. There was also a small section that shows what Utah was like at the time. It included a map of Utah, and some information about the native tribes that lived there. Also included was some information about the Spanish colonists that were in the area. The Utah part of the exhibit gives visitors a broader perspective about what life was like in 1776. When people think of that time period, it is usually just about the original colonies; the rest of the country isn’t really considered. It also lets locals learn more about the state and what it was like before it became part of the United States. The exhibit is staying up until 9/11 as part of the city’s America 250 celebration. Until then, the Road to Liberty exhibit will remain open to the public.l

Art at The Park helps Utah artists flourish Interact with local artists on Sept. 18-19.

Bryce Samuleson is a landscape artist whose work was displayed at a previous Art at The Park Show. (Photo courtesy of Rob Chipman)

Page 8 | September 2026

UTAH ARTISTS RETURN to The Garden Place at This Is The Place Heritage Park (2601 Sunnyside Ave.) as part of the fifth annual Art at The Park event. The community is invited to attend the free art show Sept. 18-19, where they can meet the artists behind the works, watch live art demonstrations and explore a diverse selection of original pieces priced from $100 to $10,000. “We are so excited to be back for our fifth year at beautiful This Is The Place Heritage Park, where art lovers can see the amazing work of over 75 of Utah’s top fine artists,” said Rob Chipman, founder of Art at The Park and ArtThrive. “It is so satisfying to have enabled our artists to have sold well over $1 million worth of art since our founding. Now, as part of a new nonprofit organization, all of the net proceeds of the event will go towards helping local artists to flourish to an even greater degree.” The show is presented as part of ArtThrive, a new nonprofit organization that assists Utah artists and promotes art appreciation in the

state. More than 75 local artists will showcase their work at Art at The Park on Friday, Sept. 18, from noon to 9 p.m., and Saturday, Sept. 19, from 11:00 am until 7 p.m. Artists are expected from Cottonwood Heights, Bountiful, Kaysville, Draper, Holladay, Midvale, Millcreek, Murray, Riverton, Sandy, South Salt Lake, South Jordan, Taylorsville and West Jordan. In addition to artwork, attendees can experience a variety of food trucks and the beautiful setting of The Garden Place, making Art at The Park a unique destination for collectors, families and anyone looking to discover local talent. Whether purchasing a first piece of original art or expanding an established collection, visitors can enjoy a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where collecting art is made accessible and easy. “We are thrilled to host an event that highlights such exceptional local talent,” said Missy Larsen, CEO of This Is The Place Heritage Park. “For us, ‘Awaken the Pioneer Within’ isn’t just a theme, it’s a call to celebrate creativity, resilience and community connection.” Art at The Park reflects ArtThrive’s mission to create meaningful opportunities for Utah artists to flourish while fostering a vibrant and engaged

arts community throughout the state. Members of the public are encouraged to attend this free event, discover remarkable original artwork, and support Utah’s thriving creative community. Artists at the event include Esther Candari, a multidisciplinary artist who studies the connections between ecology and culture; Robert Fuerer, an artist known for his plein air landscapes and award-winning button mosaics; and Melissa Tshikamba, whose primary mediums are 22-karat gold and oils. Art at The Park is also committed to paving the way for emerging artists with its Student Art Showcase during the event. “Over the past five years, Art at The Park has set a standard of excellence that we are proud to foster,” Larsen said. “We invite everyone to join us, enjoy free entry to the grounds, and experience the work of some of Utah’s finest artists.” For more information and a complete list of participating artists, visit artattheparkutah.com.

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Riverton City Journal

As Utah’s official educational savings plan for the past 30 years, we help you invest for education so you can help your children and grandchildren follow their dreams.

★

LEADING THE WAY. DELIVERING RESULTS. PUTTING PUBLIC SAFETY FIRST.

AS SHERIFF, I HAVE DELIVERED RESULTS: • Ended jail overcrowding releases and increased capacity • Rebuilt staffing after years of shortages • Increased mental health and substance use treatment in the jail • Strengthened youth gang prevention and intervention • Improved support for Search and Rescue volunteers

VOTE TO RE-ELECT

SHERIFF ROSIE RIVERA ★ ON NOVEMBER 3RD! ★

There’s more work to do. In my next term, I’ll continue addressing jail capacity, investing in prevention and treatment, expanding accountable alternatives to incarceration, and supporting the deputies and staff who keep our communities safe.

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September 2026 | Page 11

RIVERTON

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No tickets are required, but seating is limited. Page 12 | September 2026

Riverton City Journal

City Journals presents:

A publication covering local pets, their

humans and their care around the Salt Lake Valley

Give an old dog a new beginning By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com Puppies are cute but senior dogs have wisdom, manners and lots of love to share. While an older dog might not have the energy of a puppy or long years of fun and adventure left in them, for people willing to look past the slower walks and gray hairs, a senior dog can offer a life-changing experience at both ends of the leash. Guinnevere Shuster works as the Humane Society of Utah’s communication director. She said there are several misconceptions about adopting an older dog that can hold people back from a loving relationship, including the idea that the dog will pass away too soon. “When people are worried about that, I often bring up the fact that the time that you do have is really special, and you’re really making a difference for this animal,” she said. “You’re getting them out of the animal shelter into a home where they’re loved. Getting them out of the shelter and into a home is really rewarding.” Dogs are considered senior when they turn 7 and cats when they turn 10 or 11. Although aging differs between the size and breed of the animals, many pets live several more years. Shuster said one cat was 12 when she was adopted, but lived another five years. She said most senior pets offer calm

companionship and are deeply grateful for another chance to live with a loving family. While some of the animals had an established bond with their previous families, others might have led a rough life, but they usually have an easy time adjusting to a new home. “They’re really resilient, and they’re also very social creatures. So they are looking to make that connection with people,” Shuster said. “They want to be around you. They want to have their person. It might take them a little time to learn the ropes and get adjusted to everyone, but dogs and cats typically bond pretty quickly to who’s caring for them, especially to who’s feeding them.” Adopting a senior dog from the Humane Society comes with several benefits. All adoption fees are waived and they are spayed or neutered and microchipped. They receive all necessary vaccinations and are given medical and dental exams, including blood work and X-rays, if needed. If the animal has medical issues, or needs teeth pulled, those problems are taken care of before they are put up for adoption. Potential adopters receive full transparency when it comes to the animal’s physical condition. “When adopting an older dog, they know what they’re getting,” Shuster said.

BlackJack is a 10-year-old Norwegian elkhound/husky mix. He’s one of the senior dogs available for adoption at the Humane Society of Utah. (Photo courtesy of Humane Society of Utah) “They don’t have to worry about potty training or loose-leash walking or the dog chewing up any shoes. You know what you’re getting with a senior animal and that brings a great peace of mind and a lot less stress.” For those interested in adopting a senior dog or cat, the Humane Society of Utah has information about all its animals,

including photos, at utahhumane.org. “One of the benefits is that when you get them home, you get that reward of giving an animal a home, an animal that’s often overlooked in the shelter environment and maybe not favored by most people,” Shuster said. “It’s really rewarding to know that you’re giving this animal a place to rest for their golden years.” Buy a MEXICAN COKE and get a six-dollar

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September 2026 | Page 13

More than a shelter dog: The second chances waiting behind kennel doors By Holly Curby | hello@hollycurby.com Some arrive as strays, others are surrendered but animal advocates often point to understanding the journey in the first place. Every shelter dog has a story. Some arrive as strays. Others are surrendered because of financial hardship, illness, housing changes or family emergencies. Behind many kennel doors is a pet that was once deeply loved but lost its home through circumstances beyond anyone’s control. For prospective adopters, it’s easy to focus on finding the right pet. But animal advocates often point out that adoption is also about understanding the journey that brought an animal to the shelter in the first place. One local family recently experienced that reality firsthand when a routine visit to the Utah Humane Society turned into an unexpected adoption. Like many families, they weren’t actively looking to bring home a dog. They simply enjoyed visiting shelters so their son could spend time with animals, walk dogs and learn about responsible pet ownership. Adoption wasn’t part of the plan. Then they met a small terrier mix whose story would change everything. After spending time with the dog, they learned that he had only recently arrived at the shelter. His previous owner, an older gentleman, had been forced to move into assisted living and could no longer care for him. The news struck a chord. “It overloaded my empathetic heart,” the mother recalled. “I thought about my dad and his little dog he rescued from a shelter, and how devastating that must be that a man and his dog had to separate.” The dog’s situation highlights a growing challenge faced by animal shelters across the country. Life transitions such as health issues, housing restrictions, financial setbacks and moves to senior living facilities can leave loving pet owners with difficult

choices. In many cases, the animals entering shelters are not neglected or unwanted. They are cherished companions caught in circumstances beyond their owners’ control. That reality often goes unseen by visitors walking through adoption centers. Instead, people may see barking dogs, crowded kennels or animals that appear anxious and withdrawn. What they don’t see are the stories behind those behaviors: the owner who could no longer afford care, the family navigating a crisis, or the senior citizen saying goodbye to a longtime companion. For shelter staff and volunteers, helping animals find new homes means helping people see beyond the kennel. Sometimes, those connections happen in unexpected ways. During a family’s visit, a stranger approached and asked why they hadn’t adopted the dog they had just walked. After a brief conversation, the stranger made an astonishing offer. “I’m going to adopt the dog for you,” she said. The act of generosity stunned everyone involved. “My son started crying with joy, and tears honestly ran down my face,” the mother said. “I was just in utter shock at this woman’s kindness.” What began as an ordinary afternoon soon became a trial foster placement. Days turned into weeks. The family weighed the responsibilities of pet ownership, discussed finances and considered how a dog would fit into their lives. Eventually, they decided to make the adoption permanent. Their experience serves as a reminder that shelter adoption is about more than bringing home a pet. It is often the continuation of a story that began long before an animal arrived at a rescue organization. It is also a reminder that second chances don’t belong only to animals. The dog received a new home. A family discovered a companion they hadn’t expected. And a stranger’s simple act of kindness helped bring them together. For those considering adoption, shelter workers encourage potential owners to ask

Peyton rings the “Gotcha Day” bell at the Humane Society of Utah to celebrate his new dog’s adoption.

After the passing of his wife, Jim found a companion and source of comfort by adopting George from the Humane Society of Utah.

questions about an animal’s background, temperament and needs. Understanding a pet’s history can create a deeper appreciation for the resilience many shelter animals demonstrate every day. Because behind every wagging tail is a story. And sometimes, the dog waiting quietly behind a kennel door isn’t just looking for a home, he’s waiting for the next chapter of his life to begin. Animal lovers can support shelter pets and animal welfare efforts by attending the Humane Society of Utah’s upcoming 2026 Wags to Wishes Gala on Oct. 17 at 6 p.m.

at the Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City. This year’s theme, “Lights, Camera, Compassion,” invites guests to step into the golden age of Hollywood glamour for an evening dedicated to helping animals in need. Visit UtahHumane.org/gala for tickets. For more information about shelter pets, animal welfare and the adoption process, check out additional insights from the former director of the Utah Humane Society on Holly’s Highlights podcast, available wherever podcasts are streamed and at www.HollyCurby.com.

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5 unique animal rescue organizations By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com It’s not just cats and dogs that need rescue and love. When you think of animal rescues, you probably picture shelters filled with cute kittens or adorable dogs. But animal rescue is much more than that. Several organizations in Utah are dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating everything from ducks to turtles and finding homes for these unique pets. Here are a few of these groups that help nearly every type of creature.

Wasatch Exotics Rescue

Founded by Angela Pollack, Marybeth Spencer and Mitchell Christiansen, Wasatch Exotics Rescue provides a foster-based model in which every rescue is placed in an approved foster home. The fosters set up a proper habitat for the animals and give the rescues love and attention until they find their forever home. The group accepts pets such as ball pythons, iguanas, geckos, bearded dragons, turtles and more. To adopt an exotic pet, surrender an animal, become a foster or volunteer, visit wasatchexoticsrescue.org for more information.

Clementine Ranch

Although they are not currently accepting new animals, Clementine Ranch is a sanctuary for livestock. Started by Lindsey Armstrong and Rob Fenn, the ranch is intended to be a place of compassion, embracing a vegan lifestyle. The couple took over an existing animal sanctuary in Herriman that needed a lot of renovation to make it safe for humans and animals. The rescued or retired livestock include cows, sheep, goats, horses, emus and chickens who can live out their lives in peace and comfort. At clementineranch.org, information is available on how to support the organization to keep the animals fed and housed. Follow their adventures on social media @ theclementineranch.

Wasatch Wanderers Animal Rescue

This animal rescue is focused on the care of abandoned, neglected or unwanted animals. Since it was founded in 2021, the organization has rescued 1,400 animals in need. Wasatch Wanderers is dedicated to educating owners about the care of domestic fowl, which are often dumped in rivers, lakes

and streams once they outgrow their “cute” chick stage. Rescuers hope that by teaching people that domesticated ducks, geese and chickens cannot survive in the wild, it will stop the illegal dumping of these animals. Learn more about the organization, or donate to the cause at wasatchwanderers.org.

Community Animal Welfare Society (CAWS)

CAWS is Utah’s oldest animal rescue group, providing foster care, adoption and education to save cats and dogs that are often overlooked or under-appreciated. This includes sick, elderly, injured or special needs animals looking for the perfect family. Most animals at CAWS are rescued from shelters across Utah and other states. Families looking to adopt are carefully screened to ensure they get the best pet for their home. For information about adoption, fostering, volunteering or donating, visit caws.org.

Canines With a Cause

This organization offers a double bonus: it pairs rescued shelter dogs with military veterans struggling with PTSD. Animals are evaluated at shelters to find potential candidates to become psychiatric service dogs, then partnered with a vet. The duo trains together, allowing the vets

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When ducks are illegally dumped in ponds and streams, Wasatch Wanderers rescue and rehome them. It’s just one of the many organizations that help animals find loving homes. (Canva stock) to work with the dog to develop therapy skills and tasks. These can include interrupting distress, waking a vet up during nightmares, retrieving items and grounding. CWAC helps the pair develop a strong bond that supports both partners. Classes are offered to veterans at no cost. To learn more, visit canineswithacause.org.

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September 2026 | Page 15

Local vet clinic saves Piper the Viper By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com “They really did treat Piper like he was my child,” Ruben “Rusty” Lugo said of the staff at Wasatch Exotic Pet Care. Pets reside in over 66% of U.S. households, according to a Forbes report pulling research from the American Pet Products Association in 2024. Of those, the most common pets are dogs (56.3 million) and cats (43.1 million). Salt Lake County residents, however, like to keep things interesting with beekeeping and backyard chicken coop trends. Rabbits, ferrets, ducks, turkeys, goats, cows, pigs, sheep, horses, snakes and turtles are also allowed within most of the county’s cities (with varying ordinance and permitting requirements). One such nontraditional pet is a California king snake named Piper. Cottonwood Heights Planning Commissioner Ruben “Rusty” Lugo calls Piper the Viper a part of the family. “I’ve always loved exotic type pets,” Lugo said. “They are wonderful conversation starters.” Lugo adopted Piper in 2015 when he was 6 months old. At the time, he was about 3.5 inches long and, when coiled, could fit in the palm of Lugo’s hand. “People have this perception that

a few words. His favorite childhood pet was a tarantula which lived for 12 years. Lugo now passes on the tradition of nontraditional pet ownership to his son with Piper the Viper. Upon returning home from a recent summer trip, Lugo found Piper coiled up in his water dish (which is an abnormal behavior for snakes). Upon further inspection, Lugo noticed Piper’s heat lamp had gone out. He thought he might give Piper some

snakes are slimy. They’re actually soft, smooth and very clean animals,” Lugo said. Lugo’s been able to watch people’s perceptions of snakes change in real-time. It all starts by slowly bringing Piper out to introduce him with a single touch or pet. “He’s so tame,” Lugo said. “Now, my friends are coming back to hold Piper.” Lugo’s love for animals is genetic. He recalls how his mom converted one of the bedrooms in his childhood home into a space dedicated to raising animals. They had lizards, praying mantises, tree turtles, swimming turtles and frogs. She even let the large turtles roam around in the backyard. Once, his mom brought home and cared for a wounded Piper the Viper came home to an all new terrarium after a health magpie. She eventuscare. (Ruben “Rusty” Lugo/Cottonwood Heights) ally taught it to speak

time before he grew concerned. However, his girlfriend nudged him to not wait. Lugo called Wasatch Exotic Pet Care and they recommended bringing him in. “He was real lethargic and was barely alive,” Lugo said. “We got the good call around 4:30 p.m. that Piper was thriving in a heat incubator.” Lugo was prepared to pay whatever the cost to ensure a member of his family remained healthy. He was pleased when Wasatch Exotic Pet Care presented him with reasonable and fair pricing that didn’t break his bank. “They really did treat Piper like he was my child,” Lugo said. “It’s exceptional to have that service in our awesome city of Cottonwood Heights.” Piper was able to go home that day. Wasatch Exotic Pet Care even sent Lugo home with additional information about California king snakes. “It hit me I love Piper more than I thought,” Lugo said. “I’ve been holding him a lot more ever since.” Wasatch Exotic Pet Care is a drop-off only small business located at 1892 E. Fort Union Blvd. (Open from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday through Friday). To learn more, visit their website at: www.wasatchexotic.com. According to Lugo, Piper has a long life ahead of him, which may be about 25 more years as that’s how long California king snakes can live in captivity.

Meet the winners of our cutest pet social media contest First place is a three-way tie!

First place. “Peaches smashed between our mastiff/ pitbull mix and the couch.” (Photo submitted by Kelsee Tia Kinder)

Page 16 | September 2026

First place. “Rosie is a 9-week-old shih tzu who alternates between nibbling at your toes and taking naps under the couch. Her emotional support human’s name is Liz.” (Photo submitted by Liz Ang)

First place. “Charlie puppy is a 4-year-old yorkipoo who does not like going to Lowe’s but when he does, he planks on a bucket of drywall mud to strengthen his front paws. His motto is ‘why only lift a leg when you can lift your entire body?’ His support humans are Liz and Stephane.” (Photo submitted by Liz Ang)

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Special Blessing of the Animals marks church anniversary By Collette Hayes | c.hayes@mycityjournals.com

“Savannah is 4 years old and incredibly kind,” Mazie Tovach said. “She loves to play hide and seek with us.” (Collette Hayes/City Journals)

Pastor Sarah Merchant blesses beloved pets in a heartfelt event during the church’s yearlong anniversary celebration. This year, as Hilltop United Methodist Church marks its 125th anniversary, community members lined the sidewalk in front of the church—pets in arms, carriers and on leashes—to receive blessings of peace, hope, joy and life fulfillment for their companions from Pastor Sarah Merchant. In a scene reminiscent of Saint Francis of Assisi, the event honored faith, community and the special bond between people and their animal pet companions. Reflecting on the milestone, Merchant shared, “As our faith community celebrates our 125th anniversary this year, Hilltop United Methodist Church wants to remember and live into the qualities that make us who we are: community, service and honoring the dignity in all of God’s creation, human and nonhuman alike.” As the day’s events unfolded, the rumble of Sandy Mayor Monica Zoltanski’s dually truck hauling a three-slant horse trailer drew the community’s attention. She pulled into the parking lot and headed to the back field to park. Horses Tiramisu, Biscotti and Liberty Bell stepped out of the trailer ready to meet and receive

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a blessing from Merchant. The pastor opened their blessing with, “We bless animals to remember the inherent goodness in our animal companions as we seek their strength, joy and peace as we live together. We experience a mutual benefit.” Although special services for blessing animals originated in Catholic and Anglican/Episcopalian churches, other Protestant denominations have embraced the tradition as a way to integrate pets’ lives into a biblical context. Connections between saints and animals are common, drawing on biblical themes such as Daniel in the lions’ den and on stories of animals honoring the sanctity of saints. Against these religious pet blessing beginnings, the personal stories of those attending come to life. Elementary school student Mazie Tovach stood patiently in line, gently cradling her cat Savannah. She spoke softly to reassure her that the dogs yapping and jumping in front of her were nothing to be concerned about. “Savannah is 4 years old and incredibly kind,” Mazie shared while still continuing to slowly stroke the tabby’s thick, gray fur. “She loves to play hide and seek with us. One time, we found her hiding in a cupboard. She also likes to take naps in

her cat bed.” Although Australian shepherd Winter identifies her home state as West Virginia, Utah suits her well. Her striking blue merle coat, warmed by rich tan points on her cheeks, would stop most for an introduction, which would be acknowledged by a wet lick on the hand. Her crystal-blue eyes shine with sharp awareness, curiosity and a watchful focus. While in an eager stance, she assesses the possibilities for herding nearby humans and animals. For those unable to bring their pet— or wishing to honor a deceased companion—attendees were invited to bring a photo or a stuffed animal as a meaningful stand-in, ensuring every cherished companion could be included in the blessing. Guests were also encouraged to bring pet supplies, food, toys or blankets to benefit local animal resources and shelters, extending compassion beyond the church and into the broader community. This inclusive and compassionate approach reflects the church’s deeper beliefs about the sacredness of all living creatures. “As United Methodists we delight in all of God’s creation, seeing all animals as good and inherently holy,” Merchant said. “We bless them and name them good as God does. Through blessing our pets and animal companions, we experience the divine.”

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Of course they do. By Cassie Goff c.goff@mycityjournals.com

n our ongoing efforts to celebrate Salt Lake communities, we here at the City Journals would like to present you with some local (free or low-cost) alternatives for spoiling your furry family members. Athena VII offers free pup cups. Coffee house and bistro, their themed specialty drink menu includes Hades (dark mocha, ice cream, and whipped cream), Medusa (matcha latte with pistachio), and Cerberus (black tea, lemonade and peach), among others. Athena VII is located in Sandy at 111 W. 9000 South. www.athenavii.com Crown Burgers gives bacon to dogs riding through their drive-thru. Locally owned, Crown Burgers famous signature burger is their namesake. Their other menu options include salads, fish, chicken, gyros, lemon rice, and homemade onion rings. Crown Burgers is located in South Salt Lake at 3270 S. State St. www.crown-burgers.com Bjorn’s Brew welcomes dogs with real dog bones. The dog-friendly family-owned coffee shop features drinks like the Sinner’s Latte (caramel,

Does your doggo love a Pup Cup? hazelnut, vanilla, and an extra shot of espresso) and the Buzzin’ Bean (cold brew with cold foam). Bjorn’s Brew is located in South Salt Lake at 2165 S. State Street and Holladay at 4679 Highland Dr. www.bjornsbrew.com Tres Gatos Coffee provides free pup cups. Coffee shop featuring Best Non-Dairy Latte 2024, Tres Gatos’s signature menu items include the Nutcase Latte (nutty latte with nutty cold foam) and Dark Side of the Moon (dark mocha, pistachio, and coconut). Tres Gatos Coffee is located in Midvale at 7567 S. Main St. Swig has free pup cups that often include a Milk-Bone. The dirty soda chain’s menu includes mixes of classic soda with flavored syrups. They now have energy drinks, refreshers, pretzel bites, cookies, and hot chocolate as well. Swig’s locations are scatted throughout South Jordan, Sandy, Taylorsville, Midvale, Cottonwood Heights, West Jordan, and South Jordan. www.swig.com How about one more? Pro-tip from Salt Lake Metropolitan Magazine’s Executive Editor - visit Arctic Circle and order their kid cone as an alternative to a pup cup’s whipped cream. Most locations will offer kid cones for free but Adobe Stock may ask for a $1 donation. l

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Artistic talent on display at the Salt Lake County Senior Art Show More than 140 entries were judged at this year’s event. By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com

andy artist Shu Yamamoto has been “cat-terizing” famous paintings for nearly 20 years. To celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, Yamamoto did a series of patriotic works including cats signing the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, and “Washingpaw Crosses the Delaware,” which he entered in the Salt Lake County Aging & Adult Services Senior Art Show. The painting depicts General Washingpaw standing heroically in a boat, with his crew of diverse kittens, as they cross the Delaware River. It earned Yamamoto a thirdplace finish in the competition. “I’ve always admired my adopted country, the U.S.,” he said. “I became a citizen 10 years ago, and I wanted to celebrate with other Americans.” The fourth annual Senior Art Show brought together artists from across Salt Lake County, each contributing their canvas art, pottery, woodworking and fine craft entries. More than 140 pieces were entered in the competition that was held at the end of July. This year’s theme was “From the Heart: Reflections on 250 Years of America,” with

West Valley resident Alan Heaps holds one of the hexagonal trinket shelves he makes with scrap wood. He entered several pieces into the Salt Lake County Aging & Adult Services Senior Art Show. (Peri Kinder/City Journals)

the art pieces displayed at the Salt Lake County Government Center. “Art has been an integral part of our senior centers’ culture since day one,” said AAS Program Manager James Witucki. “At each of our 14 centers you’ll see people finding community through various art groups and classes, ranging from pottery

Shu Yamamato took home a third-place award for his painting, “Washingpaw Crosses the Delaware.” The Sandy resident likes to recreate famous paintings using cats. (Peri Kinder/ City Journals)

and woodcarving to painting and fiber arts. These classes help older adults connect, communicate and express themselves creatively through art. Our annual Senior Art Show celebrates not only their incredible talent, but also the amazing community they’ve built through art.” West Valley City resident Alan Heaps started woodworking two years ago, using scrap wood to make trinket shelves. “It’s a hobby, and I enjoy doing it,” he said. “It’s fun and keeps me going. My neighbor gives me all the wood. It’s the scrap wood from where he works. They throw it away. I’ve got two shelves at home that I put shot glasses on. You can put anything you want on them. They hang on the wall and I make different varieties.” Heaps’ friend Lorin Schetselaar entered his acrylic painting “Old School Drag Race.” He’s had a lifelong passion for creating art and drag racing. “I’m into old cars,” Schetselaar said. “So there are a couple old cars in the painting and they’re just getting the green light. There’s not much of a crowd, but some of them are at

the concession stand, some people are in the tower. That just speaks to me.” Salt Lake County Aging & Adult Services Division Director Paul Leggett had the opportunity to select two Director’s Choice awards. His multimedia winner was Kristy Fullmer of Draper for her lighthouse pottery mug. Leggett’s choice for canvas art went to Millcreek resident Ralph Morelli for his painting, “Pink.” “There are two things about it I love,” Leggett said. “One is the art itself and the other is the message that [Morelli] included with the art. There are cards that you can pick up with a picture of the art on it, and on the back he wrote, ‘My tribute to humanity. This is a gift given human to human. May my painting, ‘Pink,’ brighten your day. Peace and tranquility. Love, Ralph and Donna. Please pay it forward.’” Overall winners of the canvas art category were Leonard Davis (first), Dennis Greenwood (second) and Yamamato (third). The fine art category winners were Dennis Otteson (first), Terry Harris (second) and Jacqueline McCleery (third). l

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“He was the calm and steady in the chaos,” said Dillon, Moonshine’s mom. (Heather Dillon/Utah Pet Partners)

“Moonshine was so stoic and aloof,” Dillon said. (Heather Dillon/Utah Pet Partners)

“Dogs have always been such a comfort,” Dillon said. (Heather Dillon/Utah Pet Partners)

Moonshine was often decked out in his favorite bandana, hand-made by Amelia owner of Rebel Paw. (Heather Dillon/Utah Pet Partners)

Therapy animals shine bright: Moonshine’s story “They just seem to know.” By Cassie Goff c.goff@mycityjournals.com

“T

ime seems to drag on when you’re going through treatment. A furry friend is such a nice reprise,” said Heather Dillon, registered Utah Pet Partners volunteer. Utah Pet Partners (formerly Therapy Animals of Utah) focuses on linking therapy animals and human interactions to improve physical, emotional and psychological well-being. Their goal-directed intervention foundation is based in medical and veterinarian researched animal-assisted therapy (AAT). They provide support across a wide range of environments including mental health clinics, shelters, rehabilitation centers, assisted living homes, disability service centers, correctional facilities, court programs, airports, libraries, universities, schools and hospitals. Therapy animals registered with Utah Pet Partners include a wide range of dogs, cats, potbellied and miniature pigs, guinea pigs, rabbits, rats, donkeys, mini-horses, birds, llamas and alpacas. But for many patients and families visiting Intermountain Health Primary Children’s Hospital Salt Lake City and Miller Family Campus (in Lehi), their respite came as a calming and quiet presence shaped as a medium black-and-white speckled great Pyrenees/border collie/retriever mix named Moonshine. “He had a knack for knowing who needed him first — the patient or the family,” said Dillon, Moonshine’s mom. Therapy animals are required to have an even temperament, which means they’re predictable and dependable even in stressful situations. They must be neutral around other dogs and they cannot bite, bark or lick.

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“It takes the right kind of dog,” Dillon said. “A dog who has the demeanor where nothing bothers them.” Moonshine was quickly adored by all of the patients, families and nurses he visited. Sometimes, families would come in from out of state for treatment and would specifically request a therapy dog like Moonshine. “It helps the kiddo feel a little more relaxed from the anxiety,” Dillon said. “It brings them so much comfort through their pain and treatment.” Dillon was drawn to volunteer with therapy animals after she attended graduate school and worked in hospice care. She adopted Moonshine from Rescue Rovers when her own son was 3 years old. “When we rescued him, we wanted a dog to do therapy work with,” Dillon said. “He was so chill and sweet. He won me over.” After Moonshine was adopted into his new home, Heather began working with him to get certified. Therapy animals must prove they’re able to do the work through at least two to three evaluations, go to the veterinarian often to ensure they’re up-to-date with full vaccinations, and retest yearly. “Therapy animals don’t have rights like service animals,” Dillon explained how therapy animals must be invited into the environments they visit. “We can’t go where we’re not wanted.” In addition, therapy animals are required to be insured as well as clean and bathed at least 24-hours in advance before any scheduled visit. “Your heart really has to be in it. It’s a lot of time and your own money,” Dillon said. Dillon and Moonshine became a registered Pet Partners team in 2019. Moonshine began his career as a bookworm where he would visit five local county libraries as part of the “Read With Me (Read to a Dog)”

“Our son was…diagnosed with an autoimmune condition….By his second hospitalization, Moonshine and I were able to visit his boy. That is our son’s favorite memory of him. Moonshine being so excited to see him where he ‘worked’,” said Dillon. (Heather Dillon/ Utah Pet Partners)

programs. Moonshine’s favorite books were “Find Momo Everywhere” by Andrew Knapp and “The Boy, The Mole, The Fox, The Horse, and the Storm” by Charlie Mackery. “He locked in with you,” Dillon said. “He would just know to put his paw on the book or snuggle up. It always amazed me he knew what to do.” From local libraries, Moonshine transitioned to spending time with students at Midvale Elementary. “He would give them his undivided attention with so many distractions,”

Dillon said. Therapy animals have a strict two-hour visitation limit per day. For Moonshine, the rest of his 22 hours were spent decompressing and enjoying his favorite treats — broccoli and blueberries. “He didn’t like to work at home. He was so amazing with others and their big feelings but if we got emotional, he was a fair-weathered friend,” Dillon laughed. “He had a good work life balance.” Dillon recalls how Moonshine sought out interactions with everyone and would always choose people over other dogs. “He loved everyone.” Moonshine said goodbye on May 7 after a lung cancer diagnosis. “He worked all the way up until he started showing symptoms. He told us he was ready to go and we listened,” Dillon said. Moonshine is remembered by his surrounding community with a memorial at South Jordan County Library (10673 Redwood Road). “It brought everyone together in their grief,” Dillon said. “It will carry on and drive his memory.” To share a memory of Moonshine virtually, visit his Companion Chronicles tribute page through www.mycompanionchronicles.com. For anyone experiencing grief after losing a pet, Dillon recommends the book “Until We Meet Again” by Melissa Lyons. To learn more about Moonshine and his brother Rico, visit their instagram page at: @moonshinegosayhi To learn more about therapy animals and/or to donate, visit Utah Pet Partners’s website at: www.therapyanimalsutah.org. “I could not believe how he would just show up and give them his all,” Dillon said. “We can’t do that for them.” l

September 2026 | Page 21

Why government needs leaders who will work together I‘ve written before in this column about compromise and why I think it’s one of the most undervalued qualities we can ask of Salt Lake County elected leaders. It doesn’t win applause at a Councilmember council meeting, and it rarely makes for a District 3 good campaign sign. But when it works, it produces better government than either side would have landed on alone. The Salt Lake County Council’s decision last fall on county-run child care is a great example of this, and I want to walk through why. For years, Salt Lake County Parks and the Millcreek and Northwest Activity CenRecreation operated childcare centers out of ters, even though childcare has never been recreation facilities in Kearns, Magna, and a statutory responsibility of county government. An independent analysis last year found the county was spending roughly $2 million a year in General Fund dollars to subsidize care for about 270 children, somewhere between $6,000 and $10,000 per child annually. A whistleblower audit also turned up fraud at one of the centers. Most troubling to me, the study found the county never verified household income at enrollment. Only 3285 W. 12600 S. 17% of the children enrolled were receiving state childcare assistance through the DepartRiverton, UT 84065 ment of Workforce Services, meaning we had no real assurance that publicly subsidized spaces were going to the families who Guaranteed Auto Body needed them most. Repairs For ANY Everyone on the council agreed affordable childcare matters. The real argument was Insurance Company whether the county should keep operating

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childcare centers directly, at that level of subsidy, when so many working families in the county couldn’t access those services at all. That disagreement showed up in an initial vote that split the council down party lines, and it came with real anxiety for the families already enrolled. What happened next is the part I think is worth sharing. Rather than treating that first vote as the final word, Republican and Democratic council members continued listening to families, reviewing options and looking for common ground. We asked a better question than fund-it-or-cut-it: could we still make these spaces available for child care without the county trying to run the program itself and county property taxpayers subsidizing it? That work led to a unanimous vote to partner with nonprofit organizations whose core mission is serving low-income families, leasing them our existing childcare spaces at reduced rates in exchange for those organizations prioritizing income-qualified families. We paired it with expanded, affordable summer programming at recreation centers countywide. This past month, we got confirmation that it’s working as intended. Salt Lake Community Action Program will run an Early Head Start program at the Magna Recreation Center. YouthCity now leases space at the Northwest Recreation Center. Centro de la Familia de Utah will provide childcare at

the Millcreek Activity Center. All three organizations already administer income-based programs and are equipped to verify eligibility and prioritize the families with the greatest need, something county government was never set up to do well. Along the way, we extended the closure timeline, connected parents with state resources, and transferred the county’s surplus childcare equipment to our new nonprofit partners so they could get up and running faster. In today’s political climate, compromise is too often mistaken for weakness, or dismissed as splitting the difference until nobody’s happy. This decision argues the opposite. The council didn’t simply eliminate a program. We built a better one, one that reaches low-income families more reliably, makes more responsible use of taxpayer dollars, and puts childcare in the hands of organizations whose entire mission is childcare. That’s what I mean when I say government needs leaders willing to compromise. Not leaders who abandon their principles, but leaders who stay at the table with people they disagree with long enough to find something better than either side started with. Compromise didn’t weaken this outcome. It strengthened it. This wasn’t government doing less. It was government doing better, and I’d like to see us keep doing it that way.

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’ve always wanted a beautiful front porch where I could drink tea, read a book and listen to the neighbor’s fight. A porch was one of the first social media platforms. It just took a while to get the gossip; you had to sit patiently and wait for it to walk by. Now, our inability to be still keeps us from the simple joy of lounging on the porch to watch the flowers bloom, see the boy down the street learn to ride a bike, notice where the stray cat hides so you can leave it a treat, or watch your neighbor back into a light pole. At my childhood home, we didn’t have a fancy porch with swings and flowers; we had a concrete slab in front of our door, with two cement steps leading to the walkway. That was our porch and we sat on it all the time. If we were seated on the stoop, our friends knew we could play. There was no texting to see if we were home. There were no parents on a group chat arranging a play date. Kids just rode by on their bikes and invited us to go to the park. We’d gather friends along the way who were sitting on various porch steps until we had an entire gang. When I had a stomachache, Mom gave me a can of Coca-Cola. Apparently the medical treatment for an upset stomach in those days was carbonated, caffeinated sugar. Because drinking Coke in Utah at the time was borderline scandalous, I took my demon

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Leave the porch light on Peri Kinder Life and Laughter

beverage to the porch and sipped it while my friends watched, concerned about the state of my soul. Porches were the center of neighborhood communication. We’d leave treats on people’s welcome mats and Valentine’s cards on doorsteps. It’s where the paperboy threw the newspaper every morning and where the neighbor stood to accuse us of doorbell ditching, which also happened on a porch. How many first kisses happen on the front porch? People came to our porch every day. When the doorbell rang, we’d run to the front door, racing to open it first. We didn’t have Ring cameras. We had curiosity. It might be the Fuller Brush Man, a neighbor returning a casserole dish or Mom’s friend stopping by to gossip. The porch was where you sat in the rain, enjoyed the sunset, ate homemade cookies and watched a moth throw itself against the porch light. It was the place where nothing

happened, but also everything happened. A porch held no expectations but promoted childhood observations like: Is that mysterious car a kidnapper and does he have candy? Maybe we got rid of our front-porch communities because a porch required us to do something we’re increasingly uncomfortable with: nothing. We humble-brag about our busy schedules, eliminate downtime and use our phones to entertain us during the three minutes it takes to microwave a frozen dinner. Ironically, there’s an app called Front Porch Forum that’s supposed to connect people to their neighbors and communities. But you don’t have to download an app to build

connection. In fact, I challenge you to disengage from tech and go outside. If you have a porch or a stoop, sit down. Wait for the world to come to you. Talk to the woman walking her dog. Visit with the teenager slouching past your house. Watch the neighbor washing his car or the kid selling lemonade. If you’re lucky, listen to the neighbor’s fight. It’s really the perfect location. Peri Kinder is an award-winning columnist and journalist who has written for The City Journals since 2004. She also hosts the Life & Laughter podcast. Peri can be reached at peri.k@thecityjournals.com.

September 2026 | Page 23

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