Riverton Journal | May 2023

ORSON COLBY WINS NATIONAL LUGE CHAMPIONSHIP

At just 11 years old, Orson Colby needed to earn his physical fitness merit badge in order to earn his Eagle Scout award. In doing so, he discovered his natural talent and passion for the luge.

“From the moment I went down the sled I decided I wanted to do it, and I’ve been racing ever since,” Colby said.

Now 17 years old, he has competed in more than 20 races, medaled in every single one, and won a national championship in March 2023.

“This most recent race was my favorite one so far because I won, and that was a huge accomplishment,” Colby said. “What made it extra memorable for me is that it was on a track that I’m not all the way familiar with, so winning was extra cool.”

This race held extra significance as it plays a large role in deciding which athletes will be chosen to compete in the upcoming 2024 Youth Olympic Games.

“Specifically, for this coming season, the results of this race played a big part in who’s getting chosen for the 2024 Youth Olympic Games and, compared to my other teammates, it’s not a very familiar track for me,” Colby said. “I’ve been injured on that track in the past and couldn’t continue training while recov-

(Photo courtesy Kelly Colby)

Continued from front page

One of Colby’s goals is to qualify for the 2024 Youth Olympic Games and, eventually, the 2030 Olympic Games.

“I’m trying to qualify for the 2024 Youth Olympic Games right now,” he said. “My preparation for that consists of focusing on weight training to help me be at my best and, once the season comes, I’ll continue practicing on the track.”

Colby is currently on the right track to make those goals of Olympic qualification a possibility.

“I’m currently ranked No. 1 in the Youth A Men Team USA,” Colby said. “This past season is considered the pre-qualifying season for the 2024 Youth Olympics, and this coming season is considered the qualifying season. During this last season they chose three youth A men and 3 youth A women to go to PyeongChang, South Korea, and if you got to go to that, your chances to qualify for the 2024 Youth Olympic Games are really high. I went to that, so I like my chances.”

Colby’s races have taken him all over the United States and to different countries around the world.

“This year I got to go to Austria, Canada, and all over the United States,” he said. “In the past I’ve been able to go to Germany and South Korea, too.”

Colby has a great support system as his parents are supportive of his passion for luge and enjoy watching him race.

“I love to see the joy he gets when he races,” said Orson’s mother, Kelly Colby. “He never complains about going to his races. His attitude is always good about going to practice and it just makes him happy, which makes me happy.”

Since travel opportunities have become available to Orson in the past year, his parents

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Orson Colby won first place in the national luge championship ra ce in March 2023. (Photo courtesy Kelly Colby)

have not had the privilege of attending every single race in-person, which has been challenging for them.

“This was the first season that we didn’t

see every race,” Kelly said. “It was terrible. We were able to get feeds from some of the races to watch on a live stream, but we really just love being there to support him. The hardest thing is

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to not see him race in person every time.”

Kelly has been impressed with how quickly Orson has found his stride in the luge.

“It’s crazy and it’s fast and I can honestly say when we started I didn’t know where it would go,” Kelly said. “It’s like any sport— they don’t draw you in 100 percent at first. When he first started it was one day a week, then up to a couple days a week. Recently, he has been going five days a week. He was gone 12 weeks out of the year for competitions this past year, so that was interesting to get used to.”

In order to keep in shape during the offseason, Orson focuses on weight-lifting and keeping himself healthy.

“It is a very physically demanding sport,” Kelly said. “He’ll get like 5G’s going against his body. It’s a balance for him.”

While the physical aspect of the sport is fairly demanding, the mental aspect of luge can be just as taxing. If a luger is not relaxed during a race, the ice can cut and slow down their time. Orson uses ‘mind runs’ to help keep himself mentally engaged and his body relaxed before a race.

“Something that really helps me stay focused is a mind run,” Orson said. “Mostly everyone in the sport does this. We do a run in our heads with our eyes clothes on the track we’re at to help keep our minds calm. We envision what we want to see on the run.”

According to Orson, luge is a mental sport more than it is a physical sport. When he keeps himself healthy mentally, he finds more success in his races.

“For me, since luge is a very mental sport, and I’m going down the track at more than 80 miles per hour, it’s all about keeping a healthy mental state and staying positive,” Orson said. “One of my coaches always told me ‘if you’re having a bad time, just remember to have fun.’ That’s what I do at my races. I just remind myself to have fun and that’s the most important part.” l

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ering from injuries. The track was in Lake Placid, New York, and most kids I was competing with were from the East Coast. I’m on the West Coast so it wasn’t my home track, making my win something I’m extra proud of.”

Riverton High grad overcomes challenges to represent Utah at the Miss Volunteer America pageant

Gentry Rose is no stranger to hard times. So when a friend convinced her to participate in the Miss Utah Volunteer pageant, she had her platform already decided: assist children living in poverty. Her platform helped win her the crown.

“When I was in middle school, my brother was diagnosed with cancer and my dad lost his job,” she said. “We had no way to pay for his treatments. It was either make house payments or make payments toward treatment. Of course, we chose treatment. We lost our house and I was homeless for a couple of years.”

During that time, Rose changed schools often and the family never had much money. “I know what it feels like to go to school in the same clothes you’ve worn for three days. I know what it’s like to be eating the cheapest meal you can get to feed your family.”

The Riverton High grad has competed in several pageants over the last few years, including serving as second attendant to Miss Riverton, but winning the Miss Utah Volunteer fits in with her service mindset.

The 22-year-old is the founder of Clean Bee, an organization that raises funds for schools across the state, providing soap, shampoo, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, toothpaste and toothbrushes. Rose also collected more than 2,000 pairs of shoes to distribute to children in need along the Wasatch Front.

She never expected to attend college but when she was offered a full-ride dance scholarship, she was excited to enroll. However, during COVID, she was diagnosed with pectus excavatum, a condition that causes the ribcage to concave. It collapsed both of her lungs and displaced her heart. A titanium bar was inserted into her chest to hold her ribcage strong, but she lost her scholarship because she could no longer dance.

“I was in the hospital for a couple of weeks,” she said. “I couldn’t lift my arms. I was on heavy oxygen. It was such an isolating moment and such a hard moment. It was like something I’d know my entire life had all been taken away from me.”

Now, she said she’s so glad it happened because she never would have gone into nursing school. Influenced by someone during a dark point in her life, she is now a full-time nursing student and works in the University of Utah Hospital’s cardiovascular medical unit.

Rose will compete at the Miss Volunteer America pageant in Tennessee on June 17-24. She’s going into the competition with an open mind, an open heart and letting go of any expectations. She learns something new every time she participates

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

EVENING SERIES

Season Tickets: $49 Adult, $45 Senior, $29 Child Amphitheater Parking: 495 East 5300 South Ticket Info: 801-264-2614 or www.murray.utah.gov

Amphitheater Parking: 495 East 5300 South Ticket Information: 801-264-2614 or www.murray.utah.gov/1959/Tickets

MAY

May 26 The Alapa Family and the Kulturang Pilipino Ensemble of Utah

May 27 Aladdin, Movie Sing-Along

JUNE

June 3 Murray Concert Band

June 9-10, Disney’s High School Musical 12, 15-17

June 24 Murray Symphony Pops

JULY

July 7-8, Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella 10, 13-15

July 21 Peter Breinholt

July 28-29, Seussical the Musical 31, Aug 3-5

AUGUST

Aug 12 Thurl Bailey with Marvin Goldstein

Aug 18-19 A Celtic Summer’s Night

in a pageant and believes everything happens for a reason.

“During times of adversity, you might not understand why that situation is occurring to you, or maybe you feel like you did something wrong. But as experiences come to you, you’ll look back and be grateful.”

The Miss Utah Volunteer organization provides $20,000 in educational scholarships and crowns three titleholders who spend their year leveraging volunteerism in Utah by promoting their S.E.R.V.E. initiatives and integrating service throughout the state.

“We are excited to have these young ladies work and volunteer in their com-

munities and be examples to those around them of what can be accomplished when one takes the initiative to stand up and serve,” Kellie Buckale said, who serves on the executive board of the Miss Utah Volunteer Organization. “When someone speaks and acts in a way that inspires others, we celebrate them for finding their voice and using it for good. Miss Utah Volunteer strives to be that person. The one who inspires women around the state to stand in their truth without apology and follow their dreams to the end.”

Follow Rose’s pageant journey on Instagram @MissVolunteerAmericaPag. l

Aug 25 Ryan Shupe & the Rubberband

Aug 26 Jenny Oaks Baker & Family Four

SEPTEMBER

Sept 1 4 HIMS

Sept 9 Trio Los Charros

This program has received funding support from residents of Salt Lake County, SL County Zoo, Arts & Parks (ZAP), Utah Division of Arts & Museums, Utah Department of Cultural & Community Engagement, Utah Humanities, and National Endowment for the Arts.

Riverton High grad Gentry Rose was crowned Miss Utah Volunteer and will go on to compete at the Miss Volunteer America pageant in June. (Photo courtesy of Miss Utah Volunteer)

Jordan Education Foundation awards two Riverton teachers as Outstanding Educator of the Year

By Morgan Olsen | m.olsen@mycityjournals.com

Eachyear, the Jordan Education Foundation selects several teachers they feel have shown qualities of what it means to be an exceptional educator. This year, there were 15 teachers selected from the district, and two of those were Riverton-based teachers Arnica Christensen of Riverton Elementary, and Joanna Larson of Kauri Sue Hamilton School.

“Every year the foundation asks every principal to open up nominations for an Outstanding Educator of the Year for their school,” Executive Director of the Jordan Education Foundation, Mike Haynes, said. “One recipient is selected from each school to be the school’s Outstanding Educator of the Year and that recipient gets $500 and a crystal award. We then have a committee that reads through every single nomination and scores them against a rubric. Those teachers with the highest scores are selected to be the district-level award recipients. This year we had 15 district-level winners, and they each got a check for $1,000 and a nice crystal award.”

Once recipients have been selected, members of the board go around to the schools and surprise the educators with the news.

“Once those winners are decided we work with the Superintendent and our board notifies the principal of the dates we’ll be coming to their school,” Haynes said. “The principal creates a secret party by reaching out to coworkers, families and students, and we all barge into their classroom with balloons, cheers and clapping. Every teacher this year was surprised. It was a great experience.”

One Riverton recipient, Arnica Christensen, teaches special education at Riverton Elementary.

“She is solution-oriented and works with parents and her team to find solutions so kids can be successful,” Christensen’s principal Joel Pullan said. “She thinks outside the box of what most teachers would think. In doing that she’s able to meet the needs of all stakeholders—the parents, the team, and most importantly, the kids.”

Christensen has been teaching at Riverton Elementary for six years, and Pullan said she has done many things through the years that warrant her receiving this award.

“Laura Smith came to me over a year ago and said ‘we need to recognize Arnica for the great things that she’s doing,’” Pullan said. “That process was a year in the making. We included data relative in the classroom, and we included anecdotal information from colleagues on her team and input from parents who have had their kids work with her over the years. It literally was

a year-long process of gathering information to accurately and effectively portray what a phenomenal teacher she is. It was a collaborative effort led by Laura Smith.”

Laura Smith is a colleague of Christensen’s and enjoys working with her in the special education department.

“I like that Arnica doesn’t take no for an answer in the best way possible,” Smith said. “She’s an advocate on our team for what needs to be done for students, teachers and assistants. She is everyone’s advocate in the special ed department. She thinks about everyone else and is extremely selfless when a problem arises.”

Christensen is passionate about teaching and her passion shows in the love she has for her students.

“Arnica is 100 percent committed to children and their success,” Pullan said. “That’s why she won the award.”

Christensen is committed to doing all she can to help her students succeed.

“My favorite part of teaching is definitely the kids,” Christensen said. “I love being around my students and I love watching them progress. In my class, the progression can be very slow. We’ll spend an entire year working on writing their first name and be thrilled if they can end up writing one letter.

It’s so rewarding to see their progress, even if it’s just a little bit at times.”

Christensen is honored to receive this award and was surprised to hear that she was a chosen recipient.

“I honestly was shocked to get this award. It’s never really been on my radar, and it’s obviously not why I do what I do, but it is nice to be acknowledged. It’s flattering and definitely surprising. There are so many amazing teachers I’m surrounded with every day, so I feel honored to be chosen.”

The second Riverton recipient, Joanna Larson, is a teacher at Kauri Sue Hamilton School in Riverton and is well-loved by her colleagues, students and students’ parents alike.

“Joanna has an inner drive to learn more and teach better,” Principal Courtney Titus said. “She has a love for each and every student.”

Larson faces challenges each day in her position and is adaptable to accommodate those challenges. She is passionate and motivated to help the students in each of their unique situations.

“Joanna knows all about flexibility,” Titus said. “She can come into the school with the best plan, but knows she has to meet the students where they are each day they come off the bus. She accepts and works around whatever interruptions occur throughout the day. At Kauri Sue there are days that can feel chaotic, but adapting to that and changing schedules or activities when needed has to happen. Joanna does this well. Classrooms can be unpredictable. Joanna spends her days creating schedules around the individual student’s needs, not on what is easiest for her.”

Larson’s ability to face challenges with patience and grace is something that sets her apart.

“Every day is different and every day Joanna is presented with new challenges,” Titus said. “She is always down for a change of plans and is a very patient person. Working with students who have diverse physical, emotional, academic, behavioral and mental challenges requires her to have patience for each child’s abilities. Joanna has a calm and encouraging nature which helps diffuse the frequent frustrations that come with mastering ordinary simple tasks.”

Larson’s passion for teaching keeps her going when things may feel chaotic or overwhelming.

“I was very surprised to receive this award,” Larson said. “It shows that people see the hard work that we put in in the classroom and that we do make a difference even though sometimes the days are hard. It’s awesome to have support.” l

Joanna Larson of Kauri Sue Hamilton School receives the title of Outstanding Educator of the Year from the Jordan Education Foundation. (Doug Flagler/Jordan School District)

Arnica Christensen of Riverton Elementary is surprised with the news that she has been named an Outstanding Educator of the Year by the Jordan Education Foundation. (Doug Flagler/Jordan School District)

TheOquirrh Hills Middle School robotics teams have been working hard this school year building robots and competing in qualifying rounds in order to compete in the state robotics competition. During a qualifying competition in March, both teams officially qualified to compete in the state competition that took place at Southern Utah University.

“Competing in the qualifiers and making it to the state competition was a huge accomplishment,” said one student, Jonathan. “Especially since we are a middle school team and the only team in the district.”

The teams are coached by Pinyi Yao, who is currently in his second year as their head coach. The teams, named the OHMS Baconators and the OHMS Velocity Raptors, respectively, have been preparing for the competitions since this year’s theme was announced in September 2022.

“Typically the competition is announced at the end of September for the new school year,” Yao said. “The qualifiers happen in December, February and March. We qualified at the March competition, which was one week before the state championship.”

Preparing for the qualifying rounds and state competitions is time-consuming and requires students to work together to reach the goal outlined in competition rules.

“This year’s competition was called Power Play Energize,” said ninth grader and team captain Liam. “The goal was to place a cone on poles of varying heights using different methods. We all come up with different ways to do that and are judged on how well our robots perform that task at competition. For example, one of our teams used the claw method to complete the task.”

The two OHMS robotics teams finished ninth and 22nd out of 36 teams in the state competition, respectively. Their success at the competition came with challenges that taught the students lessons they say they will use to improve their robots for future competitions.

“Our team had a lot of challenges,” said ninth grader and team captain Ryder. “This is our first time we’ve tried object recognition and going that deep was hard. AI is not as easy as it sounds, but it has been our biggest accomplishment this year. In past years we never focused on self-driving or anything like that. This year we decided that, since the competition revolves around self-driving, we would implement that. Deciding to implement that in the competition was a huge milestone. I think next year we’ll use that experience to make even better robots.”

Another challenge the team faced is the lack of funding. Many other teams in the state have a bigger budget to supply materials and entry fees, but the OHMS team has struggled to receive the funding needed to have those supplies paid for, making their success at the

By Morgan Olsen | m.olsen@mycityjournals.com

state competition even more impressive.

“We don’t have funding,” said team member Kendrick. “Other teams buy their own parts, but we made our own parts for half the cost and still had the same performance. We had challenges figuring out how to do that, but we learned a lot in the process.”

The team also received help from parents and community members who were willing to donate their time to help students learn the skills they needed to do well in the competition.

“Mr. Whiteley, one of our student’s parents, is a software engineer and knows a lot about coding,” Yao said. “He has helped us learn lots of skills relating to robotics.”

The process of designing, crafting and competing has taught the robotics students lessons they can apply outside robotics, as well.

“This is my first year on the team and so what I learned was that participation and communication is key to getting things done,” team member Ethan said. “If you just sit in the back and not do anything it doesn’t work out too well.”

Other students said they learned the importance of time management and executing a plan effectively.

“With limited time we have to manage our expectations and use our time effectively,” team captain Liam said. “Having different parts, we have to use our time wisely. Using our time effectively is something important to learn.”

Participating in robotics has taught other students the importance of being involved and doing their part to get the most out of the experience.

“I learned about participating on a team more,” team member Justin said. “I didn’t really participate much when I was in seventh grade, but once I started participating it was really fun working together.”

Working as a team was another benefit students on the robotics team have been grateful for this year.

“We really had to learn how to work as a team,” team member Kendrick said. “If our team was divided, our robot would not work very well - we wouldn’t know what to do. But once you work together and have experiences together, you are much more successful.”

Yao has enjoyed watching his team flourish this school year and loves to see them become even better students, team members and leaders through robotics.

“My favorite part of coaching these kids is seeing them learn,” Yao said. “I have some students that are growing to be leaders and it’s especially awesome to see how they grow in this middle school age. It’s fun to see them grow in life as well as in robotics. I’m really proud of them for all the hard work they’ve put in this year.” l

Oquirrh Hills Middle School robotics teams represent district, school by placing top 10 in the state

Members of the OHMS Baconators robotics team work on their robot at competition. (Pinyi Yao/Oquirrh Hills Middle School)

Left: Members of the OHMS Velocity Raptors robotics team make finishing touches on their robot during the competition at SUU in March (Pinyi Yao/Oquirrh Hills Middle School)

Below: Members of the OHMS Baconators robotics team work on their robot at competition. (Pinyi Yao/ Oquirrh Hills Middle School)

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

With20 years of administrative experience plus serving on the Utah State Board of Education, Molly Hart knows a thing or two about education.

When the current Albion Middle School principal learned about the opportunities at Summit Academy, she wanted to embrace it as the charter schools’ new executive director.

“Once I learned about the opportunity and met the people and learned what they want to do and how they want to grow Summit, I wanted to be part of it,” she said. “I have a lot of ideas about education, with different innovations and ways of doing things and I want to try them out. The charter environment is a little bit more agile and, in a lot of ways, that’s why we have charters, is to try things out on a smaller scale. When you’re building something, it takes the community in the truest sense of the word—the teachers, the parents, the students, the administrators to create the vision. I’m not taking a plan over there and plopping it down. I’m going there to build a smaller community where learners can thrive, and parents feel good about the experiences their kids have.”

Hart likes the small learning environment.

“Summit does some things that are unique with the K-8 school, so you don’t have to make a transition in between fifth

and sixth grade,” she said about the Draper and Bluffdale schools that serve ages 5 through 14. “The smaller environment in the high school gives students opportunity. They are really wanting to make sure that students’ individual needs are met with personalized learning, and they’re doing some pretty cool stuff with eSports and tech. We want to empower students to be curious about their world, to empower them to learn how to find information and critically separate fact from fiction and learn how to construct a strong argument based on evidence in multiple areas, but also to have experiences from trial-and-error experiments.”

Her appointment begins July 1. She will continue as Albion’s principal in Sandy until then and will continue serving on the Utah State Board of Education.

“Being on the Board, I’m more aware of policies than the average person. I can keep a pulse on where things are going,” she said.

Through her years in education—starting with being a teacher and administrator in Georgia before being a principal 11 years in Canyons School District, she realizes that she is good at seeing the overall picture and helping create that by working with groups of people, keeping the school children’s best interest at heart—especially now, post pandemic.

Molly Hart, who is principal at Albion Middle School in Sandy and serves on the state school board, will become Summit Academy’s new executive director. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

“We learned a lot and education is in a different space,” Hart said. “Kids are different, and teachers are different, and parents are different—and it requires a different kind of educational experience for kids. I think we can either dream about five and 10 years ago and those glory days or we can look forward to the next great educational experience. Sometimes you got to break with the past to build something beautiful—and kids deserve that. I love creating teams and meeting the needs of kids. I just love it when it’s a great environment for kids.”

Her first step at Summit will be listening and soaking it in.

“I am going to listen; I am going to be Summit’s No. 1 learner. I am going to just soak up everything I can from the community meetings from the classrooms, from the extracurriculars from the different campuses, from the students,” Hart said.

She hopes to identify the school community’s strengths and challenges.

“I’m going to work using their strengths to overcome their challenges. I want to make it so the administration and the running of the schools is in the background. That way, the teachers can concentrate on the students in front of them and students can concentrate on learning and experiencing the things the teachers have for them,” Hart said. “I’m not going to impose a vision other than my vision is

to help the community develop the best school possible for that community for those students.”

Hart will take her books that currently fill a wall in her office as well as a bright colorful quilt she sewed, which is displayed on another wall. On one square, there is a tiny imperfection, a pucker which doesn’t allow the fabric to lie flat.

“I use it to teach kids telling them because you have a flaw, it doesn’t mean you’re not valuable,” she said. “It actually means that block is different, and we all are as well. There are lessons in humanity there so sometimes when kids are stressed or worried, I try to calm them down and give them something to think about. They, like the quilt, are still beautiful.”

She said that parents universally all want a safe school, a quality education where students come away better than when they arrived.

“It’s important for students to be productive and contributing citizens in ways that are meaningful to them and their family. The minute I met the people, the administrative team, the Board and saw the commitment to meaningful learning and experiences in a safe environment where there’s a healthy community of support for each other, I knew I wanted to be part of it,” Hart said. “Summit puts students first. They’re open to innovation and they have a vision for the future.” l

New Riverton Police Chief, Blair Barfuss, accepts law enforcement appointment

Riverton City Mayor Trent Staggs announced the appointment of Blair Barfuss to be the city’s new police chief. Barfuss assumed the role on Feb. 21 after unanimous approval by the Riverton City Council.

“Chief Barfuss has brought with him a wealth of law enforcement experience. I am confident his servant leadership style and commitment to community-oriented policing will make him very effective as he leads the Riverton Police Department,” Staggs said.

Barfuss will lead the Riverton police force having previously served as chief of police at Utah State University since July 2022. According to Mike Kuehn, executive director of Utah State University’s public safety department, Barfuss’s “extensive experience and expertise have benefited all members of the Utah State University community. He set us up for success.”

Prior to his time at Utah State University, Barfuss was chief of police and director of public safety at Utah Tech University in St. George. He was appointed to that position in May 2018 by Utah Tech University President Richard Williams, who said Barfuss “has an impressive background of dedicating himself to protecting the residents of Utah.”

The majority of Barfuss’ law enforcement career was spent with the West Valley Police

Utah. Financed by Altabank.

By Dylan Wilcox | d.wilcox@mycityjournals.com

Department where he held a variety of leadership roles since 2005, including training unit commander, patrol watch commander, detective sergeant, administrative sergeant, patrol sergeant and SWAT team leader.

In 2016, Barfuss served as a special agent or task force officer in the Child Exploitation Task Force of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. In this position, Barfuss investigated federal crimes involving the distribution of child pornography and worked undercover online to investigate cases.

Barfuss holds a master’s degree in human resources from the Huntsman School of Business at Utah State University. He is also an FBI National Academy graduate, received his bachelor’s in criminal justice administration from Columbia College and an associate’s degree from Brigham Young University – Idaho.

“It is an honor to be selected to lead the Riverton Police Department. I look forward to serving the residents of Riverton and ensuring the Riverton Police Department’s commitment to service and community continues,” Barfuss said of his new position in Riverton.

Staggs added that the enhancements being made to improve law enforcement service continues to deliver on its return on investment through cost savings.

“Residents continue to see savings and

improved service since the city left the Salt Lake Valley Law Enforcement Service Area back in 2018 and left Unified Police Department to create the Riverton Police Department back in 2019,” Staggs said. “In fact, since forming our own taxing district to fund police services in Riverton, our residents have saved

over $10 million in property tax that would have otherwise been paid to the county taxing district, with over $4 million in savings just last year.”

Barfuss will lead the Riverton law enforcement team of 36 sworn officers and four civilian staff. l

Mayor Trent Staggs (right) poses with new Riverton Police Chief Blair Barfuss. (Riverton City)

Inaugural Mayor’s Freedom Award presented to Enes Kanter Freedom

Enes Kanter Freedom was in Europe when he learned the Turkish government had placed a bounty on his head, offering $500,000 for his capture. The former Utah Jazz player said his platform of speaking out against human rights violations and the lack of civic freedoms in Turkey and other countries placed him on Turkey’s most-wanted terrorists list

To honor his commitment to free speech, Riverton Mayor Trent Staggs invited Freedom to Riverton to receive the inaugural Mayor’s Freedom Award, where Staggs proclaimed April 12 as Enes Freedom Day in the city.

“I think it’s important for us, here in America and as residents of Riverton, to appreciate the freedom we have and how fragile it can be,” Staggs said. “Enes has chosen his God-given platform to raise awareness for these issues, not just here but also across the world.”

In a ceremony at the Old Dome Meeting Hall in Riverton Park, Staggs spoke about the courage it takes to stand up to tyrannical governments, especially when it could bring danger to yourself or your family.

“Enes has taken on some big opponents,” Staggs said. “It may be unusual to use a David and Goliath comparison given his size, but he has truly taken on some goliaths in the shape of the country of Turkey, China, as well as the NBA.”

Freedom became a U.S. citizen in November 2021, changing his last name to Freedom to bring awareness to human rights abuses around the globe. He often condemns Turkey and Venezuela and is convinced he’s been blackballed by the NBA for speaking

Plan Ahead

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

out against China’s actions against people in Tibet, Taiwan and Hong Kong.

As the number three overall draft pick in 2011, Freedom started his career with the Utah Jazz and played here for four years before being traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder. He’s also played with the New York Nicks and Portland Trail Blazers, and last played for the Boston Celtics. After he was traded to the Houston Rockets in 2022, the Rockets waived Freedom and he’s had no offers from any other NBA team.

“We should feel very blessed and very lucky to be in a country, be in a state, be in a city like this because on the other side of the world, just because people don’t have freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of expression, freedom of protest, they are jailed for life,” Freedom said. “With this award, it just gives me so much hope because it shows me that I’m not alone.”

Staggs said Freedom will always have a home in Riverton, crediting him for being an advocate for free speech and not turning a blind eye to human rights violations, despite the challenges that have come with speaking out.

Freedom has voiced the idea of running for public office where his ideas can be amplified. He’s not backing down and invites people to stand with him.

“Until one of those crazy billionaires finds another planet to live on, this world is all we have,” he said. “So we have to make this world better together.” l

Funeral arrangements are a deeply personal choice. Preplanning provides you with the time needed to make practical, detailed decisions that reflect your standards, lifestyle, taste and budget. And we assure you and your family that the choices you make will be carried out as planned.

Enes Kanter Freedom (center) was presented with the Mayor’s Freedom Award by Riverton Mayor Trent Staggs (left). U.S. Rep. Burgess Owens (right) also attended the inaugural award ceremony that recognized Freedom for standing up for human rights around the globe. (City Journals)

RIVERTON REVIEW

Official Newsletter of the Riverton, Utah City Government

Our Right to Freedom of Speech

By Mayor Trent Staggs

On April 12, we had the opportunity to welcome former Utah Jazz star Enes Kanter Freedom to Riverton and present him with the inaugural Mayor’s Freedom Award for his courageous commitment to human rights and free speech.

Over the last five years, Freedom has become a prominent advocate for freedom of speech and human rights. He has used his platform as a professional athlete to defend and advance the cause of freedom against the challenges of today, both here at home and across the globe. Enes relentlessly addresses the lack of civic freedoms experienced in Turkey and Venezuela and condemns China’s atrocities against the people of the Uyghur, Tibet, Taiwan and Hong Kong.

His bravery and unwavering commitment to speak up on behalf of others who cannot speak for themselves has not come without a cost. Enes’s native country of

Turkey has issued nearly a dozen warrants for his arrest, placed a $500,000 bounty on his head, revoked his Turkish citizenship and has resulted in numerous threats on his life. Government leaders even forced his parents to publicly disown him. Despite all of this, Enes has refused to be silent and continues to fight for what he believes.

Many in this world don’t have the same basic rights Americans have inherited. Enes knows how important this is, because he grew up in a country that doesn’t protect free speech. Everyone should have the freedom to express their opinions without the fear of retribution.

As mayor, I feel it is my responsibility to promote an environment where each Riverton resident feels empowered to share their own thoughts and beliefs. I am committed to helping residents better understand this fundamental right that comes from our Creator.

Our Founding Fathers recognized the importance of free speech when they drafted the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. This amendment protects our right to express

ourselves freely, without fear of censorship or reprisal. It has become a cornerstone of our representative democracy and a vital component of our free nation, though it is under attack today. Increasingly in the U.S., the false religion of wokeness wants to label “freedom of speech” as blasphemy. You can be granted your freedom for the “right agenda,” but not on protected topics or against moneyed interests. Americans should be the biggest ambassadors on calling out injustice, hypocrisy and propaganda. People need to think for themselves. Money shouldn’t buy silence. People should be able to say obvious truths.

It is critical for each of us who are blessed to live in this country that protects our God-given freedom to

speak for those who can’t speak for themselves—no matter the sacrifice. Allowing citizens to speak their minds and share their opinions is crucial for promoting innovation, creativity and progress. Without the freedom to express ourselves, we cannot engage in meaningful debate, make informed decisions or hold those in power accountable. In the words of Benjamin Franklin, “Without freedom of thought, there can be no such thing as wisdom; and no such thing as public liberty, without freedom of speech.”

As many groups look to censor opinions and quiet those whose beliefs differ, I hope we can look to the example of Enes Kanter Freedom and defend and uphold our right to free speech. It is our duty as citizens to remember and preserve this freedom.

“Without freedom of thought, there can be no such thing as wisdom; and no such thing as public liberty, without freedom of speech.”

Benjamin Franklin

U.S. Congressman Burgess Owens with Enes Freedom and Mayor Trent Staggs at the presentation of the Mayor’s Freedom Award at the Old Dome Meeting Hall.

The Inspiring Story of the Isaacs COUNCIL MESSAGE

By Councilmember Troy McDougal

ELECTED OFFICIALS

Trent Staggs - Mayor

Andy Pierucci - District 1

Troy McDougal - District 2

Tawnee McCay - District 3

Tish Buroker - District 4

Claude Wells - District 5

CITY COUNCIL

MAY 2 & 16, 7 p.m.

MAY 11 & 25, 6:30 p.m.

In today’s world, we see constant negativity with a focus on problems in our society. I prefer to see the good and wanted to share a great example of the good things good people are doing right here in Riverton.

On January 9 of this year, Riverton residents Mr. And Mrs. Isaac came to Riverton City Hall to pay a utility bill. When Mr. Isaac returned to his car, he found his wife unconscious in the passenger seat. He rushed back into the building calling for help. Two of our wonderful staff

members, Deb Rekoutis and Jen Cannon, responded. Deb called 911 while Jen went to the parking lot to help Mrs. Isaac. The 911 dispatchers instructed them to take Mrs. Isaac out of the car and begin CPR.

Sergeant Anthony Brereton of the Riverton Police Department quickly responded and administered CPR that he had recently learned from City Risk Manager Aubrey Polino. Sergeant Brereton continued to perform CPR until Unified Fire Authority personnel arrived on scene. At that point, Captain Dave Lee, Heber Anderson, Tyler Cox, Dave Picke, Dawson Givens and Kevin Burningham tended to her until they arrived at Riverton Hospital where she would go on to receive the proper care that she needed.

Three months later, I had the wonderful opportunity to meet Mr. and Mrs. Isaac at an April City Council Meeting. We thought it would be appropriate to highlight the ordinary, everyday people who jumped in to help a stranger in need. It was a special moment to see Mrs. Isaac meet and thank the individuals who helped save her life.

Everyone involved used the skills and talents they each possess to work as a united group for a positive outcome. They were not worried about who got the credit, media attention or compensation. They saw a need and acted.

I am proud to say that Riverton is full of people like that. Every day, good people are helping each other. This is just another reason why I love where I live.

Report a problem at rivertonutah.gov/report

Riverton Police Department Accreditation Process, and Why it Matters

By Chief Blair Barfuss

Transparency, increased community engagement, department uniformity, enhanced professionalism and improved training standards are a few of the many topics I have discussed with community members, city elected officials and city staff members, since joining Riverton City Police Department last month.

Police department accreditation through a certified independent accrediting body is one of many ways your Riverton City Police Department will systematically review, implement and validate that we meet or exceed industry standards and best practices for public safety. Doing so ensures transparency, accountability and fiscal responsibility to you, our Riverton City community members. We are proud to announce that Riverton City Police Department has been accepted into the Utah Chiefs of Police Association’s Agency Accreditation Program, and we now moving forward in the process.

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) & COPS Office support agency accreditation and recognize the importance of adhering to the highest standards of police policies and operations. Our community benefits when your law enforcement personnel are following standardized policies and procedures that provide efficient, effective and fair policing.

Participation and accreditation through the Utah Chiefs of Police Accreditation Alliance:

• Provides a norm for an agency to judge its performance.

• Provides a basis to correct deficiencies before they become a public problem.

• Requires agencies to commit their policies and procedures to writing.

• Promotes accountability among agency personnel.

• Provides a mean of independent evaluation of agency operations for quality assurance.

• Enhances the reputation of the agency and promotes the public confidence in the agency.

Using the Utah Chiefs of Police Accreditation Alliance to validate over 175 specific department policies, standards and operational procedures, we begin our continued efforts to provide the best public safety possible to our community members. Agency accreditation is only one of many ways we seek to best serve you. Agency accreditation and public safety is a team effort, requiring all of us to work together. If you want to make a recommendation or know of specific ways the police department can better serve our community, please reach out directly to Chief Blair at bbarfuss@rivertonpd.org.

For more information, please visit: Utah Chiefs of Police Association at utahchiefs.org/accreditation.

RIGHT DAY

* *

Visit rivertonutah.gov/beautiful for details on electronics recycling. RECYCLE

• Riverton residents only - must provide proof of residency.

• No business recycling.

• No hazardous materials.

• Residents are responsible for emptying their own vehicles.

Thursday, May 18 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Riverton City Park 1452 W 12600 S

UPCOMING EVENTS

Become a Member of the Youth Council

Riverton City is accepting applications from youth age 14-18 years old or in grades 9-12 to serve on the Riverton Youth Council and in executive board positions. • To learn more, or apply, visit rivertonutah.gov/youthcouncil.

Register: Fall Baseball & Flag Football

Register: Flexible Tennis League

Register: Pickleball League

Register: Town Days Country Races Town Days Parade Entry Applications

Registration is now open for Riverton City’s youth Fall Baseball league. Flag Football league registration opens on May 15. Ages vary by sport. Register online.

• Fall Baseball Begins August 1, Flag Football Begins September 5

Riverton City’s flexible tennis league is for all abilities, with one match played per week on your own schedule.

• Register at rivertonutah.gov/tennis. Offered monthly, May-August

Join Riverton City’s pickleball league to play in a fun, social and competitive environment. Partners rotate weekly.

• Register at rivertonutah.gov/pickleball. Sessions run from May - Sept.

Come join us for a Town Days family tradition. General registration is now open for the 10K, 5K and 1-Mile Town Days Races. Register at rivertonutah.gov/towndays

• Race Tuesday, July 4, 7 a.m. (10K), 7:15 a.m. (5K), 8:30 a.m. (1-Mile)

Get your business or organization signed up for an entry in the Riverton Town Days Parade. Apply online at rivertonutah.gov/parade

• Application Deadline: Monday, June 12, Parade: Monday, July 3

RIVERTON REVIEW | MAY 2023

Water supply detailed in outlook report, conservation still urged

By Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com

Whether your arms are tired from shoveling, you’re excited to keep skiing or disappointed spring weather isn’t here, it’s been a winter to remember.

With the state’s drought brought into sharp focus in recent years, the past several months have brought much needed precipitation across the state. That includes a statewide snow water equivalent measured at 200% of normal as of April 1, compared to 75% at that time last year according to the Utah Water Supply Outlook Report for April released by the National Resources Conservation Service.

“Our statewide SWE has broken all previous snowpack records,” shared Snow Survey Supervisor Jordan Clayton in a press release. “This has truly been a memorable snow season.”

All of Utah’s major watersheds were above 130% of normal precipitation as of April 4, with four at record-high levels (Provo-Utah Lake-Jordan, Tooele Valley-Vernon Creek, Beaver and Lower Sevier).

The historic snowpack is a welcome sign given the last several years of equally historic drought in the state, but while reservoir storage is at 54% of capacity and small to medium-sized reservoirs will likely fill, the effect will be less dramatic for the critically low Lake Powell or the Great Salt Lake, reports the NRCS.

“Utahns will need to continue to conserve water to help make progress replenishing our storage systems,” Clayton said.

Snowmelt runoff is likely to break its own previous records this spring, with greater than 200% of median flow forecasted for 61 out of 82 stream gage locations, at greater than 400% predicted for 15 locations.

With growing flood concerns, NRCS notes streamflow forecasts from April to July snowmelt runoff volume are based on observed SWE and precipitation at Utah’s SNOTEL (snow telemetry) sites and are volumetric. This information does not provide guidance on peak discharge magnitude at stream gage locations.

It’s the deepest snowpack ever measured in Utah, according to report, with 41 of the 138 SNOTEL sites reporting an all-time record high amount of SWE and 16 more sites were second highest.

Sherrie Ohrn, a trustee on the Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District board representing Bluffdale, Herriman and Riverton, told the Riverton City Council despite the higher water levels, the drought is not over. With so many years spent in the deficit, they need another year similar to this record-breaking winter season.

“No matter how tired you are of shoveling, you got to hope it’ll happen again next year,” she said.

Jordan Valley Water will still encourage programs and education such as Slow the Flow, Utah Water Savers, Flip your Strip and toilet replacements—where those with toilets from before 1994 could be eligible for a toilet replacement rebate.

Ohrn noted there’s funding available to help promote people changing their landscaping. She also encouraged member cities to continue its messaging and even share more of its conservation story, highlighting success stories to endorse further water preservation.

“We’re about halfway there,” Ohrn said. “It’s going to be super important that we continue to have conservation efforts and conservation messaging.” l

Troy Brosten, Assistant Snow Survey Supervisor at the Atwater SNOTEL site near Alta, trying to dig his way down to the instrument shelter to check readings. Snow depth at this site hit a new historic maximum this winter, for a period of record dating back to 1984 at the Alta Central snow course. (Photo by Doug Neff)

Officials discourage electric vehicle use in city parks

City officials are considering an ordinance prohibiting the use of motorized vehicles—such as four-wheelers, golf carts or electric bikes—in the city’s 33 parks.

The concern, raised in an April council study meeting by Councilmember Troy McDougal, comes after a wet winter where officials found people using those vehicles on park grass, damaging the surface.

How to deter such behavior was the question brought before the City Council since the city currently has no code against it.

One option was to place signage. Another was to formalize it in code “to give law enforcement some actual teeth,” McDougal said, adding sending officers out for an infraction with no legal code “is wasteful.”

While major parks like Riverton City Park, Western Springs Park and Centennial Park are primary areas for this sort of use, McDougal highlighted two parks in his area that are damaged every year by four-wheelers and snowmobiles: Canyonview Park and Swensen Farms Park.

City officials said this is new territory for law enforcement on a municipal level, with more intense discussions taking place at universities dealing with electronic

By Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com

bikes that can reach 30 mph or higher on walking pathways.

Because of that aspect, Councilmember Andy Pierucci said he is open to a possible ordinance for public safety, but generally supported using signage first.

Both Pierucci and Councilmember Tawnee McCay wanted more information and data to understand the scale of the impact, like how much damage this costs the city, if the problem is increasing or if it’s simply more noticeable due to this year’s snowy conditions.

McCay was reluctant to add more regulation based on a uniquely weather-altered year and a few complaints.

Councilmember Claude Wells agreed, supporting the need for signs over legislation.

“I don’t know if we want to craft ordinances on something with a couple complaints,” he said.

City staff said they would begin working on those signs and bring ordinance drafts back for council consideration.

“We’ll get those signs up so people are aware of how much damage, cause of the weather, can occur with the wet ground,” City Manager David Brickey said. l

Jon graduated from the University of Utah with a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies in 2012, then a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2015. Looking to expand his skill set, and broaden his ability to care for his patients, he went back to further his education once more and graduated with a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Utah in 2020. Prior to nursing school, Jon worked as a therapeutic preschool specialist at The Children’s Center in Salt Lake City which was ultimately the defining point that inspired him to seek a long-term career working with, and advocating for, children. He worked as a registered nurse at Primary Children’s Medical Center for over five years while working on his doctorate degree. Following graduation, he practiced family medicine for almost a year when he realized that pediatric and adolescent patients were the most fun and decided to switch to a pediatric care-focused clinic. Now he is excited to join Granger Pediatrics – Riverton and provide superior care for the children and adolescents of this rapidly growing community.

City officials will put up signs discouraging the use of motorized vehicles, such as electric bikes, in city parks. (Stock photo)

Riverton adopts ‘sliding scale’ model allowing chickens at homes based on property size

By Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com

ForRiverton, the chickens have come home to roost. Almost quite literally.

The City Council unanimously approved to change its ordinance now allowing chickens on homes less than 10,000 square feet (approximately ¼ acre).

Previously the city’s ordinance only allowed chickens—up to a maximum of six with no roosters allowed—on single-family lots of 10,000 square feet or more. Now the city ordinance will operate on a sliding scale, similar to what is done in Herriman, by allowing four chickens on lots from 5,000 to 8,000 square feet and six on lots larger than 8,000 square feet or .18 acres.

Lots under 5,000 square feet (.11 acres) are not allowed chickens.

Also included in the amendment is a stipulation that the distance of any structure keeping residential chickens cannot be within 25 feet of a neighbor’s house as a way to protect surrounding properties.

Jon Thorup, a Riverton resident of seven years, initially brought the issue forward to the council as his family weighed the benefit of raising chickens “with the last few years being a little bit chaotic.”

As the price of eggs increased, and with a desire to teach his four boys self-reliance, Thorup looked to bring chickens to his home

only to find his 9,000-square foot home was ineligible.

Thorup did research on the city and found that most homes within his District 1 are “backyard heavy” with 250 homes similar in size.

“I have more space in my backyard than some 10,000-square foot lots,” he told the council.

Daryl Laments, representing the Salt

Lake County Farm Bureau—a nonprofit organization interested in protecting agriculture in an urban environment—spoke prior to the vote in favor of the change supporting residents “being as self-sufficient as possible.”

“We applaud the City Council for giving this some thoughtful consideration and perhaps a chance for more of Riverton’s residents to experience the miracle of agricul-

ture,” he said.

The council initially looked at an ordinance change in March which included a planning commission recommendation that would’ve allowed six chickens at lots under ¼ acre only if chickens can be kept 25 feet from a dwelling and within a three-square foot enclosure. However, city staff held reservations about the potential enforcement challenges and the council preferred the sliding scale model, postponing the vote until April.

Several elected officials favor erring on the side of property rights, with Councilmember Andy Pierucci adding this can “reduce the burden on families.”

“It’s not going to be a game changer, but it’ll help in some small way to make food a little more affordable for families.”

Pierucci also expressed appreciation at the process with residents coming forward with an idea, it going through city staff, planning commission and elected officials.

“There has been a really thoughtful discussion on an issue that may seem to be inconsequential or insignificant to some, but to those that care about it, it’s important,” he said. “It gives people confidence in our city government.” l

Robert Bowen Presitdent, Chief Executive O cer

Over the past 44 years the focus and mission of Brighton Bank has remained unchanged, to provide the communities in which we reside an exceptional banking experience. This comes by o ering sound financial products coupled with the wisdom of friendly, seasoned bankers. As a locally-owned community bank our goal is to help small businesses, families and individuals attain their financial goals with the peace of mind knowing their resources are safe and secure. From the very beginning our success has been dependent upon the success of our customers. Together we grow and prosper.

With egg prices increasing and a general public sentiment in favor, Riverton City Council changed its code to allow chickens on residential properties down to .11 acre-lots. (Wikimedia Commons)

‘Eternally grateful’ couple thanks those who saved woman’s life

By Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com

Stewart and Carrie Isaac are high school sweethearts and will celebrate their 41st anniversary in May. But they almost didn’t make it that far.

Thanks to the life-saving efforts of emergency personnel and Riverton city staff on Jan. 9 in the parking lot of Riverton City Hall, Carrie Isaac received the care she needed to recover.

All parties involved were recognized by Riverton City in an April council meeting with medallions and certificates, but perhaps most importantly, were treated to tear-filled thank-yous from the Isaacs.

“How do you thank somebody for a life that you love,” Carrie said. “I don’t know how to tell these people thank you so very much. What you did that day was worthwhile because it means a lot to me. I would’ve never expected that.”

It all started when the Isaacs, an elderly couple, stopped at City Hall for Stewart to pay their utility bill. Carrie stayed in the car while Stewart went inside. But when he reached the car, he found his wife unconscious and rushed back inside, asking for help. Two city staff members ran outside to assist, calling 911 and being instructed to take her out of the car.

A Riverton Police sergeant arrived

shortly after and administered CPR, having recently received training a few months prior by the city’s risk manager, Aubrey Pollino. CPR continued until Unified Fire arrived where the crew continued life-saving measures transporting her to Riverton Hospital.

“The thing that impressed me most was the multiple people that were involved,” Councilmember Troy McDougal said, later adding “it’s just wonderful to see a community, people with professional training, regular citizens coming together and that really

stood out to me as a strength that Riverton has.”

With Carrie making a full recovery, she and Stewart were on hand at the council meeting to thank all those involved.

“I am eternally grateful to each and every single one of you who responded, who didn’t give up, who did your job and for the training you received,” Stewart said.

The staffers, UFA crew and representatives and the 911 dispatchers were all on hand to celebrate the experience.

“It takes a village to do something like this, everybody had a key role,” UFA Chief Chris Watkins said.

McDougal highlighted the many hours of training that prepares personnel for a situation that requires acting quickly in a high stress environment.

“This is one of those presentations that embodies why we love living in Riverton and what community is all about,” he said. “It’s helping each other, using our skills, talents, abilities to do that.” l

Stewart and Carrie Isaac stand center holding hands surrounded by Riverton officials at a recent City Council meeting where those who helped save Carrie’s life were recognized with medallions, certificates and gratitude from the Isaacs. (Riverton City)

Thousands of teen girls’ interests sparked at SheTech Explorer Day

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

More than 3,000 girls attending the ninth annual SheTech Explorer Day profited from the 1,000 mentors, tech companies and educational institutions who offered classes, tech zone experiences and advice to them.

“Think about something that you totally love, something you totally love to do,” said Cydni Tetro, president and one of the founders of Women Tech Council who oversaw SheTech Explorer Day. “Then think for just a moment how technology might be part of the things that you love to do. You’re going to have an opportunity today to see so many different technologies and to be able to apply to things that you love. Think about if you learn technology, how you can apply that and help us change the world—and some really big problems. Your objectives today are to learn about all sorts of things you don’t know about, to intentionally meet role models— hundreds of them. Take advantage of the time to go and meet those women; they are here because of you.”

Behind the “Imagine the Possibilities” SheTech Explorer Day, was a student board of about 100 girls.

SheTech’s student board has two ambassadors from each high school who serve a one-year term. As ambassadors, they share information at their schools, attend monthly events, belong to school SheTech clubs, and have opportunities interacting with women in tech, industry leaders and the governor.

Many of them participated in the SheTech summer internship program. Several donned cap and gown as seniors and 30 were honored with SheTech scholarships to further their education. Applications for the board and internship are open now at their website, www.shetechexplorer.com.

Hillcrest High Work-Based Learning Facilitator Cher Burbank said her school’s ambassadors have promoted SheTech’s event annually.

“I like how the day is interactive; they’re showcasing their innovation and changes in the industry, and it engages students year after year,” she said.

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox supported that as he addressed the attendees.

“Technology is changing rapidly and it’s impacting every single experience that we have; it’s impacting every industry and we need more women involved in those industries,” he said. “I see some of the best leaders in technology in our state here and they are incredible women. You can look up to them. I look up to them. We’ve been working hard to remove those barriers in the past and that’s what today is all about. This will do more to remove barriers than anything else. These people here have broken down those barriers for you and are here to support you in exploration and journey in STEM.”

Tetro realizes the impact SheTech is making as former SheTech students become leaders.

“Last year, a presenter told me, ‘I’m teaching one of the workshops and the only reason I graduated in civil engineering is because I came to SheTech seven years ago. Another told me she had met a woman who was an aerospace engineer, and she decided, ‘I could become that person,’” she said.

Summit Academy senior Kaidence Johnson followed the footsteps of her older sister to serve on the student board. She also serves as vice president of her school’s SheTech Club, a group her sister founded.

“I love the message SheTech is sending

of empowering women to get into STEM,” she said. “It’s definitely a field that is growing and I’ve seen on Instagram and on the news how powerful SheTech is. The program is exploding into every school across Utah and every tech industry, so it’s exciting to be part of it.”

Hunter High senior Paris Ott also is a student board member.

“The end of my junior year, I didn’t know what direction I wanted to go and that’s when I came across the opportunity for the summer internship,” she said. “It was through that, I applied to be a board member and found my passion within STEM.”

She learned from data analysts, product managers and software engineers.

“Seeing their passion and the opportunities I had, I realized ‘this is something I can go into.’ I started my school SheTech club and I’ve been helping others see opportunities. At Hunter High School, we have a lot of ethnic kids with Latina and Asian backgrounds. I think a lot of them don’t know that they even have opportunities, especially those like me, as a woman, to have a future in STEM. I think a lot of girls are scared to enter the STEM field because it’s been a male-dominated field. When I see all these women in STEM, it inspires me. I’ve gained so much confidence through this program, and I was able to get an internship with Pixar because of SheTech.”

Johnson said the male-dominance is changing.

“My dad works in tech and says the attitude is changing and they’d love women’s viewpoints, but there’s still the idea of 20 years ago when you didn’t have a chance,” she said.

During the day, students were engaged in workshops such as programming, engineering, robotics, biomedicine, web development, ChatGPT, virtual reality, entrepreneurship and others.

Copper Hills High sophomore Sadie Smith attended their first Explorer Day.

“It is a good way to learn more about different jobs and get that in-depth understanding of technology, specific for girls,” Smith said. “Having an organization run this that encourages women empowerment is cool.”

Riverton High junior Elizabeth Westwood said she was researching engineering and learned about SheTech’s student board and scholarship program.

“Explorer Day seemed like a perfect opportunity to learn more about that and about STEM,” she said. “I love physics and math, which isn’t everyone’s love, but it’s normal here.”

The TechZone offered hands-on learning about aerospace programs, 3D printing, automotive tech, gaming, aerial photography and more. Students also used creativity and visionary skills in the annual TechChallenge, with the guidance of industry mentors.

Participants chatted with Miss Utah Lyndsey Larsen, who shared she was a SheTech ambassador and summer intern as a Skyridge High student.

“I’m hoping I’m breaking stereotypes by talking about tech with a tiara,” she said. “I was really intimidated by math growing up, but I came to SheTech and realized that STEM is all around us. My experiences inspired me to take a kinesiology class. As a dancer, it was interesting to learn about the mind and the body and how that connection

About 100 high school girls, seen here with Women Tech Council president Cydni Tetro and Gov. Spencer Cox, represent their high schools are part of the SheTech student board, which is now taking applications. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

and the science behind that. That early exposure here at SheTech helped me want to pursue kinesiology with ballet performance for my college degree.”

Hillcrest High senior Morgan Khantivong, who plans to study English and zoology at Weber State, appreciated what she said.

“It made me see how anyone, no matter what your title is or how people may perceive you, can do whatever you want with your life,” she said.

Nearby, girls crowded around the University of Utah’s entertainment arts and engineering, where they learned about game development.

“We teach everything from the history of games to how to do it, like production, design, tech art, game art, programming, all of that culminating in publishing a game,” said academic adviser Miranda Klausmeier. “We want girls to disrupt the norm and envision their future where they can develop these games, whether it’s a traditional entertainment game, or an alternative game, say for the educational or medical field. These

young women here are going to be our leaders in STEM fields.”

Through involvement with SheTech, Adobe Chief of Staff of Cloud Operations Jamie Dalton wants to engage more females into STEM by sharing more career choices.

“We have a community of women here who are wanting to give back and help these young women succeed,” she said. “A lot of times women are pitted against each other and don’t realize if you get into a good healthy environment, women can be your biggest allies. For these high school girls, they’re going to have a really big advocacy group, cheering them on to success.”

Tetro said that is one of the reasons the Women Tech Council founded SheTech— to increase students’ exposure to women in STEM and to have that network “of thousands of women in STEM.”

“We interviewed a 1,000 girls, who said, ‘We don’t know any women in tech and that’s why we don’t enter STEM fields,’” she said. “We knew we could change that.” l

High school girls at SheTech are engaged in an interactive demonstration at the University of Utah chemical engineering booth. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Sunset Ridge Middle Schooler Reagan Darnell points to part of her group’s presentation during the TechChallenge at the conclusion of SheTech Explorer Day. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Silverwolves among the elite in 6A baseball

Photos

by Travis Barton

Cooper Hansen pitches a win for the Silverwolves in a 15-2 victory over Herriman to start region play. The junior led the team in ERA with 1.15. Riverton was 11-4 (11-1 against Utah competition) at press time holding the No. 6 seed in the RPI.

Remington Robbins is UVU-bound. The left-hander is part of Riverton’s experienced starting pitchers.

Zach Edwards rounds third to score a run at Herriman. The Oregon State-commit is hitting over .400 for Riverton.

Middle school athletes compete in first state unified basketball tournament

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

About100 athletes and their peer partners packed Jordan High School’s gym for Utah’s first-ever middle school unified basketball tournament.

The middle school unified basketball tournament is modeled much like the early March high school state tournament where three athletes and two partners play together on the court. The ball is shared with everyone on the team and partners help their fellow teammates be successful, said Boston Iacobazzi, Unified Champion School’s college-growth coordinator.

“We’re wanting to involve more of our middle schools and also elementary schools in Unified Champion Schools,” Iacobazzi said, adding the progression starts with Sports Days or various games at the elementary level. “Inclusion can happen at a young age. It doesn’t need to be later in life; we want it to start as young as possible. Last spring, we started a middle school unified golf program as more of an individual-type sport that students competed in this past year. Now, we’re adding the team sport

of basketball. Our goal is to have 25 middle schools involved next year.”

Seven Canyons and Jordan school districts’ middle schools’ players practiced with their peer tutors since mid-winter for the March 23 tournament. Several schools brought more than one team to the tournament. The teams were set into divisions based on the players’ ability.

“It’s all about inclusion,” Iacobazzi said. “Everyone gets to play; everyone is on the floor dribbling, passing, shooting and being out there, having fun.”

Often during the games, unified sports players will clap or high-five a player after a basket, even when the athlete is on the opposing team. Players break out in an impromptu dance with a big grin on their faces in pure joy, realizing that by being included, they’re an important part of their team and their school, he said.

“For me, middle school was not my favorite time. Middle and junior high is an awkward phase in a student’s life. So, it’s important that we add that inclusiveness,

that sense of belonging and inclusion while everyone’s still learning how to be a young adult,” Iacobazzi said.

At the tournament, the division 1 middle school teams squared off, with Mount Jordan Middle 1 taking first place. Second place went to Mountain Creek Middle 2 and third to South Jordan Middle 1.

Oquirrh Hills Middle 1 was the champion of division 2, with South Jordan Middle 2 taking second. Mountain Creek Middle 1 took third and Mt. Jordan Middle 2 took fourth.

In division 3, West Jordan Middle won. Second place was Oquirrh Hills Middle 2, followed by Draper Park Middle and Mt. Jordan Middle 3.

“It was very cool seeing just the level of play and how well the coaches, most of them being special education teachers, had really coached their teams,” he said. “And it was great seeing some of the high school coaches supporting and talking to the middle school players, asking them to be on their team when they reach their schools.”

In addition to the middle school tournament, Special Olympics Utah held a March 24 alternative high school state basketball tournament after more than 70 teams com-

peted for one of the 32 playoff spots.

“We offered this tournament to those teams who didn’t get the chance to play earlier at Weber State,” Iacobazzi said. “We wanted to offer more opportunities than just their one-day region tournament and the state tournament.”

At the March 25 college tournament, four Utah schools competed to advance to nationals. Brigham Young University won and was slated to represent the state April 13-16 in Maryland. It was also the first unified college tournament for the state.

Special Olympics had its state community basketball tournament March 25, which has been held for about 10 years. About 35 teams, with players age 8 years old and up, competed at the University of Utah.

“It’s one of our biggest events; we may have to pattern it after the high school tournament and hold a state and alternate state tournament just to make sure we have enough basketball courts,” Iacobazzi said. “It’s great that so many are wanting and getting the opportunity to play.” l

During Utah’s first middle school unified basketball tournament, Mountain Creek and Oquirrh Hills meet at the opening tip. (Photo courtesy of Jamie Hakala)

In front of a packed gym, an Oquirrh Hills student-athlete brings up the ball in the game. (Photo courtesy of Jamie Hakala)

Resilient Riverton softball reaffirms contender status, Mayfield setting records

Photos by Travis Barton

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Kyli Carrell is Riverton’s primary pitcher this year guiding the Silverwolves to an 11-1 record at press time. While last year saw the squad blow most of its opponents away, this year’s version is finding different ways to win, including a come-from-behind victory against Spanish Fork to win 11-10 after a 10-4 deficit, as well as a walk-off grand slam from Carrell against Bingham to win 6-4.

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Jolie Mayfield hits one of her now record-setting home runs. At press time, the Utah commit had knocked in 40 career homers (including a pandemic-shortened season) to surpass the previous record of 37.

ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY PROGRAM

ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY PROGRAM

to Honor Military Veterans for Their Service to Our Country.

Monday, May 30, 2022 at 10:00 am.

Monday, May 29, 2023 at 10:00 a.m.

At Larkin Sunset Gardens Cemetery

1950 East Dimple Dell Road (10600 South), Sandy

FEATURED SPEAKER:

Jennie Taylor

Gold Star Wife, Civilian Aide to the U.S. Secretary of the Army

Silverwolves flying high with playoffs in sight

PROGRAM WILL INCLUDE: Hill Air Force Base, Honor Guard, Utah Firefighters Emerald Society bagpipes, Patriotic Music by Brian Stucki and the Minuteman Brass Quintet

The featured speaker is Congressman Chris Stewart. Program will include: Hill Air Force Base Honor Guard, Utah Firefighters Emerald Society bagpipes, Patriotic Music by Brian Stucki and the Minuteman Brass Quintet and Refreshments Courtesy of Cedarwood at Sandy.

OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC

OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.

Photos by Travis Barton

Grace Degreef scores against West Jordan to kick off region play as the Silverwolves won 18-6. Degreef chipped in 21 goals and 18 assists through 11 games to help fuel Riverton’s high-octane offense.

Senior Madison Sorensen lines up against West Jordan’s free shot. The captain helped Riverton to a strong start this season winning eight of its first 11 games.

After slow start, Riverton soccer hit region with important wins

Photos by Travis Barton

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Quinn Bailey plays the ball to his center back partner Seth Glover during a rescheduled nonregion game at Jordan. After dropping its first three games of the season (including two against 6A’s top-ranked teams Farmington and Lone Peak), Riverton rebounded with a shootout victory over region favorite Mountain Ridge and two 1-0 victories over West Jordan and Jordan. The streak would reach five after wins over Copper Hills and Herriman.

Right: Junior Aiden Gatherum would score the winning goal in the second half against Jordan. After threatening with several dangerous runs in the first half, Gatherum put one away to give Riverton its third victory of the season.

Jeanne Gerber Chidester

October 8, 1930 - March 26, 2023

Our sweet mother, Helen Jeanne Gerber Chidester, made heaven on earth for all who knew her. Born into humble circumstances in 1930, Jeanne emerged as a bold bright light. So spunky and sprite, truly a pillar of indomitable strength. She was a strikingly beautiful young woman who first met the love of her life, Myron Alfonso Chidester, at Jordan Junior High. They married in April 1951 during a 3-day leave from the Navy. At the end of those 3 days, Myron just couldn't leave his new bride. Upon returning to the Navy a day late, Myron had to serve time for going AWOL. Making their home in Salt Lake City, they raised five children: Myron (Elsie), Suzie Anderson (Larry), Sharon Mayer (Ron), Linda Norby (David), Karen Lambert (Rod), which resulted in 20 grandchildren and 41 great-grandchildren. Mom and dad worked side-byside at everything. She was such a great mom. She gave of herself every minute of every day. She taught her children to be respectful, courteous, and kind above all else. Her children and her home were always "neat as a pin". We grew up healthy, happy, and knowing we were loved. She gave is an idyllic childhood.

Jeanne loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren so much. She was excited for each birth as if it were the first. She knitted and crocheted baby blankets for each of them. Even at age 92, she mailed every grandchild and great-grandchild a birthday card with $10. Every Christmas included a gift for all 87 of us. She continued the Christmas morning tradition of her grandma and mother, making the world's best

scones. All of us cherish warm memories of walking into her home Christmas morning to the scent of coffee, scones, hashbrowns and eggs. It made us feel very special and very loved.

In 1989, mom and dad fulfilled their dream of retiring to Heber House, the home they built themselves from the ground (and potato rocks) up. They loved living surrounded by the beauty of the mountains, the sound of the stream, fragrant lilacs, vibrant autumn leaves, wandering deer, and freshly fallen snow. Even on her last day of life, mom said: "I love my home." Mom never lost her ability to see the bright side of life. Through life's heartaches and trials, her first words were always: "It will be okay." Cancer and severe osteoporosis may have ravaged her body, but never her determination to keep trying, to be strong, and to make the best of any circumstance. With bright eyes she would always tell you: "I'm fine" and "I'm doing really well." When placed in hospice care for congestive heart failure in July 2022, she said "I'm going to show everyone. I'm going to stay around for a while." And she did... until early Sunday morning, March 26, 2023, while in the arms of her loving daughter, mom took her last breath. Thank you, mom. We love you. We miss you terribly. But we know, "It will be okay".

Thank you friends and family, for the love you have shown our mom and our family throughout the years. Heartfelt thanks to mom's special friend and doctor, Sandra Vanleuvan, and to hospice nurses: Jenni, Stephanie, Polly, and Megan who helped us grant mom her wish to stay in her home until her final day on earth.

A family gathering will be held at a later date. Mom continues to give of herself to further education and research at University of Utah Medical Sciences. In lieu of flowers, send a birthday card to someone you love.

WELCOME

To the South Valley Chamber of Commerce

The South Valley Chamber is committed to connecting, educating, advocating for and growing local businesses! To learn more or to join the chamber, please visit southvalleychamber.com

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"That's crazy." "Whatever works, I say." "I'm fine." "I'm doing really well."

Birthday Cake

Peach Cobbler

Cinnamon Roll -

Polish your teapots, iron your doilies and butter your crumpets. For the first time in 70 years, an English monarch will be crowned and the whole world will tune in to see if King Charles III, Prince William and Prince Harry bust each other up at Westminster Abbey.

Whether or not the coronation turns into a fistfight, there will be plenty of spectacle, pomp, circumstance, tradition, snobbery and a reminder that England adores fluffy hats.

King Charles will be 74 on the day of his coronation, code-named Operation Golden Orb (not even kidding). He’s much older than his mother was when she was enthroned. Queen Elizabeth was crowned at the age of 27 and reigned for 156 years.

The coronation is based on traditions going back centuries. In fact, for nearly 1,000 years, the Archbishop of Canterbury has conducted the ceremony. You’d think, at some point, people would start asking how he’s been alive for so long.

Our country has a bit of history with England, but we're still infatuated with royalty. American royalty just isn’t the same. It’s either the Kardashians or the Kennedys, depending on who you ask. When we elect a new president, we don’t

The Royal Treatment

coronation. King Charles and Queen Camilla will leave Buckingham Palace in a four-ton Gold State Coach that’s been used in coronations since 1830 and is notoriously uncomfortable. It’s covered in gilded statues and painted panels and will be pulled by eight dragons through the streets of London.

The procession travels from the palace, past Isengard at the southern end of the Misty Mountains, along Trafalgar Square, through Hogwarts to Westminster Abbey where the king will be anointed with holy oil using the Coronation Spoon. I don’t know if there’s a knife and fork. Wikipedia didn’t mention any other coronation utensils.

King Charles will then stand next to a really old chair (and it’s not even made out of swords pulled from the hands of his dead enemies), and given things to hold like the Royal Orb, a couple of scepters, gold spurs, a jeweled sword, gold bracelets and a ring. No wonder it’s hard to be king. That’s a lot to carry.

follow centuries of history and tradition. We do a swearing-in ceremony followed by four years of smack talk on social media.

But England knows how to stage a

Then the Archbishop (who HAS to be a vampire, I mean come on!) places the five-pound crown on the king’s head. Saint Edwards Crown has a solid gold frame and is bedazzled with rubies, ame-

thysts, sapphires and other jewels, making the crown worth more than my entire lifetime income.

Everyone yells, “God save the king!” and trumpets blare and, Bob’s your uncle, England has a new king.

Then the fun starts. Concerts will feature new musical pieces commissioned by the king himself, including an anthem written by Andrew Lloyd Webber, and I can only hope it’s performed by the cast of “Cats.” A refugee choir and an LGBTQ+ ensemble will perform, because we all know how much the royal family loves diversity.

There’s even a Coronation Quiche consisting of spinach, broad beans, cheese, tarragon and lard, to celebrate the country’s devotion to bland food. You can get the recipe online and make it for your family as you watch the celebration.

Leaders from around the world will attend the coronation, except some countries who are afraid if they send leaders to the event, England will colonize them while they’re gone. But this is a historical moment you won’t want to miss, especially if the royal family starts throwing the crown jewels at each other.

“Dozens of doctors told me that there was nothing more that they could do to expect to be in a wheel chair. I went from the top 1% in the army Special Forces to being in so much pain that I could not tie my shoe or hold my new daughter. I did physical therapy and pain killers for years, but nothing worked. Finally, I went to Dr. Smith and I improved exactly as he told me I would. I couldn’t believe it! My wife cried, “I have my husband back.”

—Steve M., Army Special Forces

D.C. CSCS Chiropractic Physician