July 2026 | Vol. 26 Iss. 7
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Sandy residents make bucket-list dreams come true By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com At age 84, Ken Sugden was able to go on the ride of his life.
S
andy residents joined forces to make 84-year-old resident Ken Sugden’s bucket list dream come true. Sugden is a lifelong gearhead. Described as a “local boy,” he attended West High School in Salt Lake City. He grew up in, what was at the time, the greater Salt Lake County area. “He’s been obsessed with cars since he was little,” said his daughter, Clodine Hatch. After high school, he served a mission
for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It was during his time in Austria he met his wife, Heidi, who understands more than six languages. She learned Latin while in school in Austria, is a fluent speaker of German, French and English, and knows conversational Portuguese and Spanish. The two of them would spend years living and traveling throughout Europe. After moving back to Utah, the couple began their family. Heidi was working as a genealogist for the Latter-Day Saint Family History Library and she still spends her time volunteering there today. That time in Europe though was
Ken Sugden, 84, always wanted a Porsche. On June 4, resident Steve Smith was able to drive him through the Cottonwood Canyons in his dream car. (Cassie Goff/City Journals)
influential for Sugden. “He fell in love with German cars,” Hatch said. The first vehicle Hatch drove around town when she got her license was Sugden’s old 1978 Volkswagen Bus. “I had a Volkswagen I enjoyed driving but I always wished to have a Porsche,” Sugden said. When Sugden turned 70, his family took him down to Las Vegas for a Supercar Driving Experience. According to Hatch, that didn’t quite scratch his Porsche itch. As Sugden grew older, he struggled losing his ability to drive with the decline of his fine motor skills. Now a resident at Sunrise Senior Living (2130 E. 9400 South), he’s never lost sight of being in a Porsche. Katie Matthews, his aide at Sunrise, asks him every night if there’s anything else she can get him before heading home and off to bed. “He always says: a two-door Porsche,” Matthews said. So, Matthews accommodated. She found a red dye-cast version of a two-door Porsche to gift him. Sugden quickly found a home for the box car next to his bed, where it stays permanently. Seeing his reaction, Matthews wanted to do even more for Sugden. She knew some members of the Sunrise Senior Living team had some personal connections. Sandy resident Steve Smith is the owner of a 1995 convertible 911 Porsche. Together, Matthews, the Sunrise Senior Living Team and Smith were able to orchestrate a bucket-list moment for Sugden. On June 4, Smith pulled up in this Porsche to take Sugden on a ride up the canyons.
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Sunrise Living employee Katie Matthews and Sandy resident Steve Smith were in cahoots to make Ken Sugden’s bucket-list dream of driving in a Porsche come true. (Cassie Goff/ City Journals)
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COMMON GROUND
The Pot Calling the Kettle a Rainbow
Common Ground will be a column of rotating viewpoints that highlight specific feelings across the political spectrum, and it will always end with possible ways to come together. As normal for June in Utah, there was little rainfall, but that didn’t stop tears of the far left from crying throughout the month. What were they upset about this time? Gov. Cox decided June (2026) should be Fidelity Month. Did the left feel betrayed by one of their biggest supporters when he didn’t recognize their month-long orgy? His declaration reads: Whereas, a recent opinion poll of Americans showed that support for traditional values has significantly declined; Whereas, a majority of Americans no longer esteem values like faith, family, patriotism or community involvement; Whereas, fidelity means dedication to faith, family and country; Whereas, it is imperative that we recommit ourselves to the pursuit of fidelity; Whereas, John Adams, a founding father of the United States, said, ‘‘Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.’’; Whereas, the survival of the United States depends on the shared bonds of faith, family and patriotism; and Whereas, it is fitting to observe one month each year to rededicate the United States to its core values; Now, therefore, I, Spencer J. Cox,
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John J. Walker Common Ground
governor of the great state of Utah, do hereby declare June, 2026 as Fidelity Month in Utah. If you imagined Gov. Cox activated his taxpayer-funded propaganda machine and waged war against the LGBTQ+ community by shoving his new declaration down everyone’s throat, it would be exactly that, your imagination. No politician has made such a lackluster declaration since Clinton used his air quotes. The Governor simply posted the declaration to his website. But that didn’t stop people from feeling butthurt about the proclamation. As if the Governor’s track record had been forgotten: 2021: The Governor declares the month of June, LGBTQ+ Pride Month in Utah. 2022: The Governor declares the month of June, LGBTQ+ Pride Month in Utah. 2023: The Governor declares the month of June, Pride Month in Utah. 2024: The Governor declares June the month of “Bridge Building”. 2025: No declaration by the Governor, but 42 miles south of the State Capitol Charlie Kirk, a right-wing political activist, was assassinated on Sept. 10. Note: the accused assassin may have been aligned with the LGBTQ community.
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2026: The Governor declares the month of June, Fidelity Month. Now, let’s look at the track record of the LGBTQ+ community for the same time period. 2021: They mock the LDS culture and religious community by creating an all-out effort to change Pioneer Day into Pie and Beer Day. 2022: They continue to mock LDS culture and community by creating an all-out effort to change Pioneer Day into Pie and Beer Day. 2023: They continue their mocking of the celebration of Pioneer Day. 2024: Continue mocking the celebration of Pioneer Day. 2025: Continue mocking the celebration of Pioneer Day. 2026: Continue their mocking celebration of Pioneer Day. It’s probably the most consistent aspect of their culture, in a world where they add new colors to their flag and their acronym gets so large they just add a + sign. To get respect, you might have to give a little. Common Ground: The current political environment has tricked us, leaving us with two polar options. Either we have to gay bash or we have to run through the street dressed like Richard Simmons, waving a rainbow flag. However, it seems like there’s a lot of ground in the middle. That ground might be the area most of us occupy. I think most Utahns can agree the
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LGBTQ+ community should be recognized; they should be allowed to celebrate their community. But can we make it less about their sexuality and focus more on their suffrage, rights, and successes? Those things we can all celebrate. As a mutual sign of respect, can’t all members of the state come together to celebrate and balance religious aspects with the suffrage, rights and successes within the communities? Those celebrations leave room for the journey of the pioneers in the mid-1800s and the similarities to that of the LGBTQ+ community in the mid-to late 1900s. Both suffered persecution. Both fought the federal government’s overreach as to who they can marry. Should Utah celebrate Pride Month? Of course. Should the Governor have declared the month Pride Month? Maybe. He doesn’t own the month; he can declare it anything he wants and we can celebrate each day as we please. Equally important are values like faith, family, patriotism or community involvement. Are they currently at risk? Of course. Let’s celebrate those values. So thank you, Gov.Cox, for supporting these key values and declaring June Fidelity Month. Let’s celebrate it and next year let’s get even louder about our celebration, maybe a drone show over the Capitol or a UFC fight in the rotunda. Thank you, Governor, for supporting Pride Month for five years. We hope you have not given up on it, and our families and community.
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Sandy woman creates her own path, one wonky stitch at a time. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
T
en years ago, Danielle Walker loaded her five children into the car and headed to the fabric store with a simple homeschool goal: teach her kids how to sew. What came next was a patchwork of ambition, improvisation and determination. Walker, who had taken one sewing class at Jordan High and owned a basic Singer sewing machine, said she had no idea what to do. “They each picked out fabric, then we started cutting and sewing it,” she said. “It ended up they made five beautiful quilts.” The kids backed the quilts with bedsheets, added batting and folder fabric over the edges instead of binding them. It wasn’t traditional quilting, but those quilts are still on their beds one decade later. “That was the beginning,” she said. “It was wild.” Today, that same adventurous spirit has
Sandy resident Danielle Walker holds up her quilt made from pattern, “Dolores,” the first pattern she offered as she created her quilt pattern business, Blackline Quilt Studio. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Patterns with personality
led Walker to launch Blackline Quilt Studio, a quilt pattern business stitched together from her love of creativity, bold design and a little bit of quilting rebellion. After the homeschool project, Walker pieced together her quilting education through YouTube videos and Instagram. In 2018, she made her first quilt since high school and fell in love with quilting. After sewing hundreds of masks during the COVID-19 pandemic, quilting began to feel more like another item on her to-do list. “A year ago, I decided quilting should be fun,” Walker said. That realization became the seed of a new idea. With traditional patterns emphasizing precision, Walker found herself unpicking seams, chasing perfection and losing the joy that drew her to quilting in the first place. “I think I’m more of an improv quilter, but I like how patterns look,” she said. Her solution was to create patterns that blend structure with freedom. Using wonky angles, unexpected cuts and room for interpretation, her designs encourage quilters to add their own personality and flair while still following the pattern’s framework. “Here’s why I like this. Improv quilting is very intimidating. Some people are fantastic at it, and some people will never touch it because it’s not a pattern. My patterns are meeting them in the middle, because I’m giving you a pattern, but in some places, I’m telling you to go with what feels right, to trust your instincts. It’s a steppingstone for improv,” she said. The result? “With my patterns, nobody’s quilts are going to be the same,” she said. Her core collection’s debut pattern, “Dolores,” launched one month after she started her Instagram page in March. Named after what she says is “the only old lady name left that I loved,” the pattern combines a classic name with bold, modern aesthetic and eye-catching color placement. “Part of my thing is being bold and disruptive,” Walker said. “The fact it doesn’t look like your grandma’s quilt and I named her a grandma name, is part of the disruption.” After asking for pattern testers on
Finding a newfound love of quilting with less traditional patterns, Danielle Walker makes herself comfortable sewing in her family room with her faithful friend, Maverick. (Julie Slama/ City Journals)
Instagram, the response exceeded her expectations. Within 24 hours, seven signed up. She had her first pattern buyer within a day of launching it on Etsy. “The quilting community on Instagram is so supportive,” she said. Walker’s designs often begin as ideas she turns over in her mind for weeks, mentally piecing blocks together before ever cutting into the fabric. “I’ve always been like this, having a desire to see things from the beginning to the end,” she said. “Writing my own pattern and making a quilt with my pattern is satisfying.” With several new patterns in the works, including her upcoming release, “Izot,” from the Dark Quiet collection, Walker hopes to publish at least four patterns each year. However, her larger goal extends beyond selling PDFs. “I want to create a community of quilters who feel the same way I do about quilting,” she said. For Walker, every quilt is more than fabric and thread. “These quilts make me happy; they make me feel alive,” she said. “It’s about cutting pieces and sewing them back together that makes them better and uniquely your own.” l
Quilter and quilt pattern maker Danielle Walker plans to offer the “Izot” pattern this summer on her Etsy site, Blackline Quilts. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
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MURRAY CITY CULTURAL ARTS
2026
FREE SPECIAL EVENTS
Picnic On The Lawn Monday, August 24, 6-8 p.m. Murray Museum, 4872 Poplar St Dine And Dance – Swing Dance Friday, August 28, 6-8 p.m. Murray Armory, 246 E Myrtle Ave Get To The River - River Fest Saturday, September 12, 12-2 p.m. Winchester Park, 1250 W Winchester St. Dine And Dance – Silent Disco Friday, September 25, 6-8 p.m. Murray Armory, 246 Myrtle Ave
MURRAY FUN DAYS
Saturday, July 4, 2026 Annual Chalk Art Contest (Pre-Register) 6 a.m.–2 p.m. Murray Armory, 246 Myrtle Ave Annual Plein Air Painting Contest 6:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Murray Armory, 246 Myrtle Ave Sunrise Service, 7 a.m. Murray Amphitheater, 495 5300 S Rotary Club Community Breakfast 6:30-10 a.m., Murray Park Pavilion #5 Entry Fee Required Races 5k Race, 8 a.m. Children’s Race (Ages 4-9), 9 a.m. Both Races Near Constitution Circle Parade, 8:30 a.m. Fashion Place To Murray Park Daytime Entertainment Heber Matute, 11:00 a.m. Flashback Brothers, 12:30 p.m. Murray Park Gazebo Evening Entertainment Hartley Road, 8:30 p.m. Firework Display, 10:00 p.m. Murray Park Softball Field For full list of activites and updates visit the qr code
JULY-SEPT s t n e v E
AMPHITHEATER For more show details & tickets, visit the qr code
Pirates Of Penzance August 7, 8, 10, 13, 14, 15, 8 p.m. Ronstadt Revival Saturday, September 5, 7 p.m. Always Tina: The Tribute To Tina Turner Saturday, September 12, 7 p.m. End Of The Line: Allman Brother Tribute Saturday, September 26, 7 p.m.
LUNCH CONCERTS
FREE, Murray Park Pavilion 5, 296 E Murray Park Ave Lonesome Folk July 7, 12 p.m. Rocksimile July 14, 12 p.m. Enny 1 July 21, 12 p.m. Craig Mecham July 28, 12 p.m.
THURSDAY MATINEES
FREE, Murray Park Pavilion 5, 296 E Murray Park Ave Patriotic Ensemble - Music July 2, 2 p.m. Ballet Center Inc - Dance July 9, 2 p.m. Paul Brewer - Magician July 16, 2 p.m. Angel Martinez - Music July 23, 2 p.m. Trash Panda – Drumming July 30, 2 p.m.
FAMILY NIGHT CONCERTS
FREE, Murray Senior Center, 10 E 6150 S Susie Brown July 13, 7 p.m. Pop-O-Gogo 60’S Band Aug 10, 7 p.m. The Ironport Band Sept 14, 7 p.m. Starlight Quartet Oct 12, 7 p.m.
For more information, call 801-264-2614 or visit https://www.murray.utah.gov/213/Cultural-Arts Sponsored by Murray City Cultural Arts, Murray Parks & Recreation, and Murray City Library. Murray Arts in the Park is supported with funding assistance by the residents of Salt Lake County, Salt Lake County Zoo, Arts, and Parks (ZAP), Utah Division of Arts and Museums, NowPlayingUtah.com, Utah Humanities and National Endowment for the Arts.
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Junly 2026 | Page 7
Meet your Sandy Police at food truck night
Sandy’s Amphitheater will host the special night on Aug. 3. By Holly Curby hello@hollycurby.com
W
hat if strengthening public safety started with something as simple as sharing a conversation in the park? That’s the vision Interim Chief Jeff Nigbur and Sergeant Mike Olsen of the Sandy Police Department shared during a recent interview on Holly’s Highlights Podcast. Their message was clear: community safety is strongest when residents and officers know one another as neighbors. On Monday, Aug. 3, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Sandy City Amphitheater Park Food Truck Night, residents will have the opportunity to do just that. Families can meet officers, see police vehicles up close, watch K-9 demonstrations, receive free swag, and learn more about the people behind the badge. “We are going to be at food truck nights, hanging out with kids and hanging out with the public,” Nigbur said. “Come out and be a part of that and get to know us a little bit.” For Nigbur, who brings more than 25 years of law enforcement experience to Sandy, community policing is about meeting people where they already are, not expecting them to come to city hall. “My push and my vision is to really go where the citizens are,” he said. “We’re talking food truck nights, child entrepreneur markets, and really trying to move us out into the community to make those connections and to make those relationships.” That focus on relationships is rooted in trust. “Trust to me is engagement and time and being visible,” Nigbur
Sandy City Police leadership joins Holly’s Highlights Podcast for a discussion on community policing. (Courtesy Holly Curby)
explained. “You have to be present and you have to be visible to create trust and create relationships.” Sandy Police currently serves the city with approximately 122 officers and relies heavily on community partnerships. Nigbur shared an example where a resident reported suspicious activity, leading officers to obtain a search warrant and recover significant quantities of illegal drugs, including fentanyl and methamphetamine. “It was literally as simple as
that,” he said. “Somebody took the time to notice, see something, say something.” Sergeant Olsen, a 15-year veteran of the department, emphasized that officers want residents to feel comfortable approaching them. “Come say hi to us,” Olsen said. “We love giving knuckles or high-fives to the kids as they walk by. We want to interact with our public and our community as much as possible.” The event also highlights the department’s commitment to education and preparedness. According to Olsen, Sandy officers receive far more training than the state minimum requirement of 40 hours annually. Most officers receive at least 100 hours of training each year, with some receiving 200 to 300 hours, including de-escalation, crisis intervention, autism awareness and community interaction training. Both leaders stressed that police officers are more than the uniform. “We are normal people,” Nigbur said. “We have families, we have hobbies. We make mistakes as police officers. We know that. We just want to interact with the public and be included in that.” When asked what he wishes people would ask officers more often, Nigbur’s answer was simple: “Tell me about your family. What do you like to do for fun? What are your hobbies?” As families enjoy summer recreation, local food trucks and time outdoors, the Aug. 3 event offers an easy opportunity to build connections that strengthen the entire community. “People just want to be heard,” Nigbur said. “We need to get out there and do a better job of understanding people and listening to people.” Listen to the full interview on Holly’s Highlights Podcast available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and www.HollyCurby.com. And don’t forget to mark your calendar for Aug. 3 at the Sandy Amphitheater Park located at 1245 E. 9400 South in Sandy. l
Sandy community planners shift focus to affordable housing in action plan The Community Development department will put most of this year’s federal housing grant to fund down payment assistance and maintenance repairs for low and moderate income residents. By Giovanni Radtke g.radtke@mycityjournals.com
S
andy City’s legislators approved the annual action plan for its Community Development department’s use of federal funds, along with renewing the agency’s membership in a county-led program to build affordable homes, on May 12. The Community Development department will use the federal housing grant to support affordable housing, emergency shelters and related services. The action plan marks the second year in the department’s five-year consolidated plan. The policy draft outlines community planners’ shift away from funding public facilities, such as the city’s Senior Center, toward stabilizing the affordable housing stock and increasing homeownership among people with low to moderate incomes. To that end, the bulk of the roughly $429,000 in funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development will go mainly to programs for down payment assistance, emergency home repairs, and maintenance. The assistance programs will help an estimated 44 people throughout Sandy, according to a draft proposal of the action plan.
Page 8 | July 2026
Sandy’s Senior Center was funded through the community department’s federal grant. (Courtesy of Sandy City)
Grant funding will also go toward community health centers, after-school programs, supportive housing for the medically vulnerable and programs that help survivors of domestic abuse. The Community Development department also participates in another federal housing grant through Salt Lake County’s HOME Consortium program. Sandy’s elected leaders renewed their membership in the program for the fiscal years 2027 through 2029. The consortium’s action plan is to build 1,000 subsidized housing units in the county over the next five years. The county’s five-year policy report notes that zoning restrictions barring the development of multifamily, or “missing middle” homes, are the “most significant barrier to affordable housing development in much of
Orange is pre 1970 housing and brown is post 1970 housing. (Courtesy of Sandy City)
unincorporated Salt Lake County and towns and cities outside of Salt Lake City.” In a similar vein, Sandy lawmakers recently began a rewrite of the city’s land code to streamline development approvals and address the shortage of affordable units. Now that the council has accepted the community planners’ annual plan, Sandy administrators will submit the one-year plan to the HUD for final approval. l
Sandy City Journal
JULY 10 - 18 A W E E K O F FA M I LY F U N
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT • FREE ACTIVITIES • FOOD • CELEBRATION
Join Draper City for live concerts, parades, fireworks, and more this summer. With events and activities new to 2026, this will be a Draper Days like you’ve never experienced before!
Join us for these activities & more! Horse Pull
July 13 | Ballard Arena Free activity, including a petting zoo, climbing wall, and bucking bronco ride
Historic Walking Tour
JULY 16
JULY 17
JULY 18
Heritage Banquet
& Children’s Bike Parade Children’s Activities Live Entertainment Stunt Shows
with Redwood Revival, Draper Idol winners, and Sadie Dahl
followed by a drone show
July 14 Enjoy a walking tour of historic sites in Draper City.
with the Gina Marie Osmond Band
followed by fireworks
July 15 | Draper Elementary Meet your neighbors and learn more about your community. Tickets required.
Children’s Bike Parade
July 16 | Draper Elementary Free activity — parade route is on Willow Creek Trail and ends at Draper Park
Park Activities
Pickleball Tournament
July 10 & 11 | Southfork Park Space is limited for this men’s, women’s and coed tournament! Register now for $40/team.
Draper Idol & Movie Night
July 15 | 7:15 PM | Amphitheater Watch local singers compete to be named Draper Idol, and catch Zootopia 2 under the stars.
5K Fun Run
July 11 | 7:00 AM | Day Barn Runners, walkers, and leashed dogs are welcome. Register now for $27/participant.
Parade
July 18 | 9:00 AM | Fort Street Join us for this family-favorite event, running 1.5 miles on Fort Street between Stokes Ave. and Pioneer Rd.
Strider Bike Race
July 11 | 9:00 AM | Ballard Arena This exciting race is geared directly to kids ages 3 - 5. Register now for $30/participant.
July 17 & 18 | Draper Park Enjoy the climbing wall, stunt shows, face painting, pony rides and more!
Pancake Breakfast
July 18 | Draper Park Join our amazing firefighters for a free pancake breakfast after the parade!
Pie Baking Contest
3-on-3 Basketball
July 18 | APA Campus #3 Test your skills and teamwork in an intense battle on the court! Register now for $70/team.
July 18 | Draper Park Show off your baking skills with a delicious pie and win a prize!
get full details at draperutah.gov/draperdays S andy Journal .com
Junly 2026 | Page 9
Dual careers benefit a single community As teachers and Sandy City Councilmembers, Brooke Christensen and Alison Stroud share a common mission: serving Sandy and investing in its future. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
P
ublic service doesn’t end when a city council meeting adjourns for Councilmembers Brooke Christensen and Alison Stroud. Both spend their days in elementary school classrooms, where they shape the next generation while gaining firsthand insight into the communities they serve. Though their paths into education and local government were different, both women see their dual roles as deeply connected. Christensen, who teaches resource classes at Copperview Elementary, said the motivation comes from making a difference. “I like knowing I’m making a difference; I’m using my time and talents to make a positive change in our community,” she said. “That’s huge for me.” Christensen first became involved in city government after organizing neighbors around a proposed development. That grassroots advocacy led to a seat on the Sandy City Council from 2018-21 before returning to office this year because “honestly, I missed it.” Teaching has come later. After leaving a career in supply chain management to raise her children, she began substitute teaching and discovered a passion for helping students who need extra support in reading, writing and math. Today, she teaches full-time while completing an alternative licensing program through Utah State University. “These kids are amazing. Many are learning to speak English, they’re helping their families in very adult ways and they may have a hard time learning things because they’ve got a learning disability; they keep dealing with harder things every single day than most of us ever deal with,” she said.
Sandy City Councilmembers Alison Stroud and Brooke Christensen not only serve the city, they serve Sandy’s youngest residents as they teach elementary students. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Students benefit from her city council experience as she expands upon the local government curriculum to help their understanding. Understanding her students’ diverse backgrounds and the challenges many families face provides a perspective she brings directly to City Hall, which informs her decisions about housing, services and community needs. Balancing two demanding careers requires sacrifice. Christensen manages city council responsibilities, teaching, graduate coursework and family life through careful organization. “Everything goes on my calendar. If it’s not on my calendar, it’s not real,” she said. Stroud, who raised her children in Sandy, has dedicated 19 years teaching at East Sandy Elementary and is now in her seventh year on the city council. “I have a strong pull, rooted in public service, from joining the military at 17 years old, to wanting to be a teacher, to serving our community,” she said.
She believes the two roles strengthen one another. “It helps me because the things we look at with city council, it impacts the students the most,” Stroud said. “I’m midlife at this point, so the decisions I make are for them; it’s the rest of their life if they stay living here.” That perspective influences how she teaches. Each year, Stroud brings East Sandy’s third graders to Sandy City Hall, where students participate in activities modeled after real council decisions. One exercise she leads asks them to choose between funding a new fire truck or building an all-abilities playground, explaining the pros and cons of both choices. Students discuss competing priorities, debate their positions and learn how elected officials make difficult budget decisions. The lesson not only helps students understand local government, but also persuasion, critical thinking and civic engagement. “After they decide, I can speak for three minutes and often, can change their minds I let them know I am one person and they, too, can be that influential. It’s a powerful lesson. They learn they need to speak up and be part of their community,” she said. Both educators use skills developed in local government to strengthen their classrooms. Stroud said being on the council has reinforced the importance of listening to different viewpoints. “I teach students to respect others’ opinions and differing perspectives,” she said. She guides students to voice their position. Then, they learn to explain their reasoning, consider opposing views and engage in respectful discussion. In the classroom, both Christensen and Stroud help students develop confidence, reasoning skills and a stronger understanding of their community. At City Hall, they bring the voices and experiences of local families into the decision-making process. Both women say the connection between teaching and public service is about investing in the future. “Today’s learner is tomorrow’s leader,” Stroud said. l
New signage at Dimple Dell Park aims to improve safety
Interim Police Chief Jeff Nigbur speaks at Dimple Dell Park. Sandy City and the Sandy Police Department are expanding public education efforts to explain the differences between As part of the ongoing efforts by Sandy Mayor Monica Zoltanski to keep Dimple Dell Park e-bikes and e-motorcycles, where each may legally operate, and the age, licensing and safety requirements that apply to riders. “Dimple Dell Park is a shared space for walkers, runners, both clean and safe, new signage was installed in June to remind residents that e-bikes and e-motorcycles are not permitted in the park. It’s a combined effort by the city and Salt cyclists, horseback riders and families,” said Sandy City Mayor Monica Zoltanski. “Clear rules and better public awareness help keep everyone safe.” (Photos courtesy Sandy City) Lake County.
Page 10 | July 2026
Sandy City Journal
City Journals presents:
recreation A publication covering outdoor recreation around the Salt Lake Valley
Take a walk on the wild side By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com Forest bathing is an invitation to fast-paced world.” The Japanese practice was created intentionally commune with nature. in the 1980s by doctors who noticed their If you’ve ever sat on the front porch to patients were experiencing burnout. They watch a sunset, enjoyed a cup of tea in the developed a prescription involving nature backyard or walked through a park to look connection that research has shown to offer mental and physical benefits. at the trees, you’ve done forest bathing. Napper invites people to attend a Ian Napper is a mindful outdoor guide who leads forest bathing sessions, also forest bathing experience which he holds at known as shinrin-yoku. He said commu- places along the Wasatch Range, including nion with nature comes easily to most canyons, parks and Tracy Aviary. Each people and the mental health benefits are event is around 90 minutes and Napper encourages participants to restore their off the chart. “It literally means to bathe in the sense of wonder, awe and community. “I’m trying to help people reconnect nature of the forest,” he said. “It invites you to slow down, like really deeply slow to nature in a personal way,” he said. “As down. The more you slow down, the more humans, we’ve become very isolated, you notice and the more you notice, then partly because of technology, but we expethe more you slow down. It helps us return rience this and there’s a connection that to a more natural pace, which is one of happens and it reduces this loneliness.” As an Army veteran and yoga the many things we need in this hyper,
instructor, Napper understands the grounding benefits of engaging with the natural world. He said some of those benefits include reduced stress, lower blood pressure, better sleep, reduced fatigue, a sense of peace and a settled nervous system. He holds his forest bathing sessions in places with lots of big trees, preferably near running water and away from man-made noise, which can be jarring to the mind. He said listening to birds or the wind in the trees, allows the body to relax in a way we don’t usually experience. People will ask him, “Why should I pay you when I can walk in the mountains for free?” He explains it’s the difference between taking a yoga class online and immersing yourself in a live class led by a trained guide. “You get instruction. You learn things that you wouldn’t have known before, because you get guidance,” Napper
said. “I have a master’s in education with a focus on trauma, and so I bring a lot of that understanding into this. It’s one thing to talk about things that I notice, it’s another thing to guide you into a different way of being.” Napper said learning to calm the mind and pay attention in nature takes practice; it can also bring up anxiety or judgment around being still. But as the practice continues, participants find it easier to attain a level of calm, and they want to bring friends and family into the experience. Some people think having idle time to walk around in a forest is a frivolous luxury, but Napper said that’s not true, in fact it’s just the opposite. “It might feel luxurious to schedule some time to do nothing but you’re giving yourself permission to go out in nature and do nothing for a while. It’s not a luxury; it’s kind of a necessity.”
Ian Napper leads groups through forest bathing sessions in canyons and parks as a way to reduce stress and build connection. (Photos courtesy of Ian Napper)
S andy Journal .com
Junly 2026 | Page 11
Shifting gears: Utah enacts new e-bike rules By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com One new rule will see riders ages 8 micromobility,” Begay said. “Micromoto 15 needing to complete a state-ap- bility being battery powered vehicles, also known as scooters, e-bikes, e-moto, proved safety course. hoverboards and similar devices. We Whether climbing mountain trails, have seen the supply and demand grow commuting to work or cruising through exponentially.” According to Begay, improvements neighborhood streets, e-bikes are becoming an increasingly common part in battery technology, performance and of life in Utah. Their growing presence has affordability have transformed the market prompted lawmakers to adopt new regu- over the past decade. As demand increased, manufacturers lations aimed at balancing safety, access responded with a growing number of and the future of outdoor recreation. The law arrives at a time when the brands and product offerings. However, broader micromobility industry—which Begay noted that rapid growth has also includes e-bikes, electric scooters, e-mo- created new challenges. “This rapid development in the last torcycles and similar devices—has expedecade has largely been unregulated and rienced explosive growth nationwide. Jeremy Begay, an e-bike enthusiast it feels a bit like the Wild West,” he said. who works in the outdoor recreation “The list of issues we are facing ranges industry, said advances in technology from batteries being a fire hazard, trail and manufacturing have fueled much of access, the speed of these devices, and the race of manufacturers to create a that expansion. “There are several movements platform that is faster, better and cheaper nationwide in industry, retail and outdoor than its competitor,” Begay said. Utah’s new law seeks to address recreation when it comes to the world of some of those concerns by reinforcing the state’s existing three-class e-bike system while drawing a sharper line between electric bicycles and higher-powered electric motorcycles. Under the law, Class 1 e-bikes provide pedal assistance up to 20 miles per hour. Class 2 e-bikes may include a throttle and are limited to 20 miles per hour. Class 3 e-bikes provide pedal assistance up to 28 miles per hour and require a speedometer. Devices exceeding those limits may be classified differently under state law and could be subject to additional requirements. The legislation also establishes new age-based restrictions. Children younger than 8 years old are prohibited from operating e-bikes on public roads, sidewalks and trails. Riders younger than 14 must be supervised by a parent or guardian, while riders under 16 are prohibited from operating Class 3 e-bikes. Additionally, riders younger than 21 are now required to wear helmets while operating e-bikes or electric scooters on public roads. Beginning in 2027, Utah will also require riders ages 8 through 15 to complete a state-approved safety course or ride under direct adult supervision. For Begay, the new regulations represent a reasonable first step toward addressing safety concerns while preserving access to the benefits of micromobility. “The simple answer to this for me is Quick fact sheet on Utah’s new e-bike law. yes,” he said when asked whether the (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals) law strikes the right balance between
Page 12 | July 2026
E-bike enthusiast Jeremy Begay takes his bike for a spin. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals) safety and accessibility. “We need to start somewhere for the purpose of making people aware that micromobility devices are different, so that they can then educate themselves with how to interact with them.” Begay believes many consumers still lump all electric mobility products into a single category despite significant differences in performance and intended use. “The purist in me wants to see a difference in how e-moto and e-bike are treated,” he said. “Currently, people see these as one category.” Trail access remains one of the most debated issues within Utah’s outdoor recreation community. As electric bicycles become more common, land managers, municipalities and trail organizations continue to evaluate where different classes of e-bikes should be permitted. “This is still being debated, so there is a whole spectrum of opinions,” Begay said. He has observed changing attitudes among many outdoor recreation users. “I think people’s ideas about e-bikes are changing and more people are finding that these bikes allow for more people to ride,” he said. Begay noted that the popularity of e-bikes has expanded participation among older riders, individuals recovering from injuries and people who might otherwise be unable to enjoy cycling. “This new market of people who are riding are pushing access simply by riding,” he said. “Trails are becoming more crowded and municipalities are responding to trail demand by creating more trails and trails that are e-bike accessible.” State officials have cited increasing crash and injury reports involving younger riders as one reason for strengthening
regulations. Begay believes education remains one of the biggest challenges facing the industry. “Unfortunately, I have not seen changes in behavior with families yet,” he said. “With micromobility being somewhat new to the masses, there has not been enough education.” He said many consumers still view electric mobility devices as toys rather than transportation equipment capable of reaching significant speeds. “Most people categorize these devices as children’s toys or other light recreation devices,” Begay said. “This leads to people not enforcing rules of the road, helmet safety, product care and other best practices.” He hopes the new law will help raise awareness. “Hopefully, these laws will create more awareness to what people are purchasing,” he said. “Awareness and education lead to more responsible decisions.” Looking ahead, Begay believes Utah’s reputation as an outdoor recreation leader positions the state to influence future policy discussions nationwide. “Utah is known for its access to outdoor recreation,” he said. “Most of that comes from Utah being a model state in the way it approaches recreation.” While debate over trail access, safety standards and regulation is likely to continue, Begay remains optimistic about the future. “I think that Utah should be at the forefront of all of this because it would mean that everyone could benefit— riders, retailers and tourism,” he said. “I’m confident that we Utahns will find a place for micromobility devices to exist in all spaces.”
Sandy City Journal
Trading screen time for trail time: Why more families are heading outdoors this summer By Holly Curby | hello@hollycurby.com What are children missing when childhood and adolescence are critical periods of brain development. During the screens occupy more of their free time? middle school years, the brain undergoes With school out and long summer a process of strengthening frequently used days stretching ahead, families are looking pathways while pruning away those that are for ways to keep kids active, engaged and neglected. “If your kid is doing music and school healthy. For many parents, summer presents an opportunity to swap screen time for and sports, then those are the things that are trail time, replacing hours spent on phones, going to be strengthened,” she said. “But if tablets and video games with hiking, biking, your kid is sitting on the couch and playing video games, then those are the things that fishing and outdoor adventure. The challenge, however, is that tech- are being strengthened.” That reality has prompted some families nology has become deeply woven into children’s daily lives. Author and parenting to rethink how they spend their summers. expert Arlene Pellicane highlights just how Instead of defaulting to screens, parents dramatically technology use has increased are intentionally creating opportunities for among young people. She notes that smart- outdoor adventure. Whether it’s hiking a local phone ownership among teens surged from trail, exploring one of our many national park, 41% in 2012 to 89% by 2018. During that paddling a lake, fishing, mountain biking or same period, the percentage of teens using simply walking the neighborhood, outdoor social media multiple times a day rose from recreation provides something screens cannot: direct engagement with the world. 34% to 70%. Research has long connected outdoor For many parents, those numbers raise an important question: What are children activity with improved physical health, better missing when screens occupy more of their sleep and stronger social skills. Pellicane free time? According to Pellicane, one of the emphasized that children benefit from faceearliest warning signs of excessive screen to-face interaction and experiences that use is a loss of interest in real-world activities. require movement, communication and “If your child used to love playing soccer, but problem-solving. “In the absence of elecnow it’s like, ‘I’d rather just stay home,’ and tronics, guess what? They’ll go out and play, you know they’re gaming instead, that’s a they’ll go build, they’ll do different things,” she said. red flag,” she said. Some families are taking that advice Outdoor recreation advocates say that observation reflects a larger trend. Activi- literally. Pellicane described implementing ties that once happened naturally such as what she calls a “digital Sabbath,” a recurpickup games at the park, bike rides with ring period when screens are set aside and friends, neighborhood exploration and family other activities take center stage. “It could be hikes, now compete with endless digital Sunday afternoon where everyone’s offline and you go to the park instead,” she said. “A entertainment. The consequences extend beyond rhythm of forcibly getting off is helpful.” For outdoor enthusiasts, that idea resophysical activity. Pellicane explained that nates. Recreation experts often point out that children do not need elaborate adventures to benefit from time outside. A picnic, an afternoon of kayaking, a game of Ultimate Frisbee, an evening bike ride or a visit to a local trail can help families reconnect without the distractions of phones and social media. Parents may also find comfort in knowing they are not alone. While social media can create pressure to stay constantly connected, Pellicane argues that meaningful relationships are built through real-life experiences. “I’d rather have one person in real life say, ‘You’re a good person, and I’m glad you’re in my life,’ than have all these followers,” she said. As summer unfolds, families have a unique opportunity to create memories that don’t require Wi-Fi or a charging cable. Whether it’s introducing a child to their first hiking trail, teaching them how to cast a fishing line, or simply spending The best part of hiking isn’t always the destimore evenings outdoors together, these nation, it’s everything you discover along the experiences can help build confidence, way. (Courtesy Holly Curby)
S andy Journal .com
Whether casting for the first time or continuing a longtime tradition, anglers find recreation, relaxation and connection on the water. (Courtesy Holly Curby)
Paddleboarding provides time outdoors, enjoyment of scenery and creates lasting memories together. (Courtesy Holly Curby)
strengthen relationships and encourage healthy habits that last well beyond the summer months. For more insights on helping children develop a healthy relationship with technology while making room for real-world experiences, listen to the full interview
with Arlene Pellicane on Holly’s Highlights Podcast, Season 2, Episode 29 available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and at www.HollyCurby.com. Her practical advice offers valuable guidance for parents seeking to raise healthy, connected kids and perhaps spend a little more time outdoors along the way.
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Utah’s Ultimate Frisbee representative team typically has between 35 and 40 players on the roster each season. (Courtesy Quincey McKeen)
“Ultimate is a great spectator sport — we promise you won’t be disappointed in the athleticism or excitement!” (Courtesy Quincey McKeen)
Local athletes shred their way to Ultimate Frisbee championships
Utah’s representative team, Salt Lake Shred, will compete in division qualifying games later this month. By Cassie Goff c.goff@mycityjournals.com
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alt Lake Shred (the Shred) is in the middle of their Ultimate Frisbee Association season. One of 22 teams across North America, the Shred is Utah’s representative Ultimate Frisbee team. They compete in the West Division with teams from Washington,
Page 14 | July 2026
Oregon, Colorado and California. “The Shred are a family — camaraderie and work ethic are high, but that isn’t to say there isn’t competition amongst players,” said Quincey McKeen, Shred general manager since 2023. It’s the team’s fifth consecutive year with 35-40 players on the roster. The Shred’s name and logo was originally inspired from Utah’s ski culture. Playing off the name, their mascot is a cheese grater named Shreddy. “Many players are Utah-grown talent, having played in a Utah high school or college before joining the Shred,”
McKeen said. One such player is Sandy-native Cole Stenseth (No. 9). He started playing Ultimate Frisbee in his junior year attending Jordan High School. Now, he’s a college student at University of Utah. “You can really use all three dimensions when throwing,” Stenseth said. “The disc hangs on the air leading to big layout catches or people skying a pack.” Nine Utahns have played on the Shred for all five seasons including two of the team captains: Alex Forsberg and Chad Yorgason. (The third captain, Matt Russnogle, moved to Utah after playing club Ultimate Frisbee in Tennessee.) Forsberg was introduced to Ultimate Frisbee while attending the University of Utah. He played for only one year with the college team before joining the Shred. “He has risen through the ranks — from not playing any games his rookie year, to being a leader and dominate player during his fifth season,” McKeen said. Yorgason started playing Ultimate Frisbee in high school (in Cache County) and ended up joining the CHI team at BYU. Yorgason enjoyed the sport so much he inspired his two younger brothers to join. “Ultimate is similar to soccer where… you may be playing for your pro and club team at the same time in two different leagues,” said Stenseth. Playing for the Shred for consecutive years is notable as the team has annual open tryouts each December. McKeen explained how elite players include strength and plyometric training into their track workout regimen. “Even if you were on the team the previous year, you must attend and re-tryout. It takes agility, speed, endurance and a good vertical,” McKeen said. “And, of course, you have to be able to throw and catch. Players will spend a lot of time throwing outside of practices, working on specific types of throws or throwing around a mark.” “It’s nice to get an opportunity to play alongside these talented players and they drive me to be better,” Stenseth said. Never heard of Ultimate Frisbee? The objective is to move the Frisbee from one end
of the field to the end zone on the other side by passing the Frisbee from teammate to teammate (similar to soccer). Players must pass the Frisbee within seven seconds of catching it and they cannot run with the Frisbee in hand. “Professional Ultimate Frisbee is not your backyard barbecue game — it’s intense, with players throwing their bodies across the field to block the Frisbee and multiple players jumping to snag a big throw,” McKeen said. The Shred will play two home games: July 4 against the Seattle Cascades and July 17 against the Oakland Spiders. Both games begin at 7 p.m. at Zions Bank Stadium (14787 Academy Parkway, Herriman). “The Spiders have been a big rival for the Shred and finally beat us for the first time earlier this season, so the July 17 rematch will be a big game,” McKeen said. Stenseth is particularly excited for their game on July 4 as the new stadium has a direct north view of Salt Lake Valley. “I’m already imagining some Sandlot vibes, playing under the lights with fireworks going off in the background,” he said. Depending on the results of that game, the Shred will either host a playoff game on July 27 or host a playoff game in August. “Residents can support the Shred by coming out to a game. Games are incredible family-friendly events,” McKeen said. Shred games have concessions, great music, fun merch and activities for kids and youth. Children 7 and younger can get in for free. “Our home crowd is one of the 3 largest attendance fanbases in the League and we’d love to jump that to No. 1,” Stenseth said. “We could use all the fan support and cheering we can get. We hope to see some new faces out!” Interested in Ultimate Frisbee yourself? Stenseth recommends checking out Utah’s local youth and adult leagues throughout Salt Lake and Utah county. Find one nearest you through Utah’s Ultimate’s website (www.ultimateplayut.com) or Utah Ultimate Disc Association’s website (www.utahultimate.org). Want to learn more about the Shred? Follow them on Instagram (@saltlakeshredulti) or visit their website at www. saltlakeshred.com.l
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Mayor swaps city hall with schools to inspire and connect with Sandy youth
Sandy mayor visits elementary schools to talk citizenship, community and Sandy’s participation in America 250 celebrations. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
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andy Mayor Monica Zoltanski pulled herself up on the monkey bars. Earlier, she had been eating buttered noodles and chicken with students in the cafeteria where one girl gave her a green beaded necklace to wear. She played four-square and students later took turns trying on her signature red cowboy hat. For students at Sandy, Altara and Sprucewood elementaries, this spring “Mayor Z” offered a first-hand look at local government while introducing students to Sandy’s upcoming America 250 celebrations. At Sandy Elementary, third graders discussed the nation’s upcoming birthday celebration. “America is having a birthday on July 4,” Zoltanski told students. “America will be 250. That is a day worth celebrating with a big party.” She asked students to compare the country’s birthday celebration to their own birthdays, with decorations, friends, family, cake and gatherings. Zoltanski explained the U.S. Constitution, voting and local government in kid-friendly terms, while encouraging students to recognize their own leadership abilities. “When I look around the room, I see leaders today,” she said. “I’m proud of these leadership skills you’re building today.” Students asked questions from what the mayor does to
Sandy Mayor Monica Zoltanski takes a mid-day break to eat lunch and play four-square and climb the jungle gym with Sprucewood Elementary students. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
what kind of car she drives. “I have a 23-year-old station wagon,” she said. “It’s not big or fancy.” She also shared how efforts to preserve the natural trails at Dimple Dell Regional Park helped launch her path into public service. Then, she asked students questions: “What are you contributing to make your school, your city, and maybe even your environment better? How can we make our community better? What are you doing to make your school kinder; your neighborhood, safer; your classrooms, more inclusive; your
environment and community better?” Zoltanski said she wanted students to feel empowered. “I hope they start looking beyond themselves, recognizing their opportunity to contribute, to help the environment, to help one another, to stand united together,” she said. The message comes from her childhood. Growing up as one of 10 children, her parents at dinner regularly asked at the dinner table: “What are you doing for your community? How have you helped someone who has less than you? How are you sharing and building up?” She said her favorite part of visits is when students ask her about her job. “I get to talk to students about understanding and appreciating the work in their community, how they can contribute, even at a young age,” she said. “I tell them how I advocated for something that I was passionate about and how they, too, can do that.” At Altara, Zoltanski read books, “Cake” and the bilingual “Fix-it Familia,” to first-grade students, She also answered questions about city services — city water system, police and fire departments, garbage service — as well as her horses and upcoming city festivals. “You are my boss,” she told students. “I work for the people of Sandy. Your opinion is important. When you see my red cowboy hat, come up and remind me how we met and let me know what’s important to you.” That message carried over at Sprucewood, where she also highlighted Sandy’s summer celebration and praised students for being kind and working together. “I hope to inspire them,” Zoltanski said. “They’re our future leaders and citizens.”l
Celebrating inclusion through soccer
Canyons School District’s middle school unified soccer tournament scores big for building confidence, teamwork and connection. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
“I
like helping my team and playing united,” Eastmont Middle School sixth-grader Ari Boye said during the Canyons School District’s recent unified soccer tournament. “I like working together to score and cheering with teammates; it makes me feel good.” The sense of joy and connection defined the event as middle schools came together in the tournament that placed special education students and their peers side by side on the pitch. The day emphasized inclusion, teamwork and connection through soccer. Ari said he’s learned to be positive on the field and strives to find a balance between competition and sportsmanship. “Don’t get mad, be nice even if you lose and maybe you’ll win next time,” he said. That message was evident in every match as students worked together, passed the ball and celebrated goals regardless of school affiliation. Coaches and administrators said the unified format creates opportunities that go beyond athletics. Butler Middle School Assistant Principal Scott Dwyer noted the positive impact before the games began. “It builds their confidence where they want to try things,” he said. “They’re saying, ‘I can do this.’” Butler student Edwardo Obediente Pedreanez has learned new skills. “I’m able to dribble and pass better, and I’ve made some new friends playing,” he said.
Page 16 | July 2026
His teammate Zien Al Azzani was thrilled to have taken shots on goal: “I’ve scored today.” Albion student Dash Johnson also was excited to have scored goals at the tournament. Those moments of growth and passion are part of unified sports. As Union Middle coach Jeremy Wright said simply, “I love the kids’ enthusiasm.” Eastmont Middle coach Mark Snow emphasized the importance of fun and connection to his team. “Hopefully, they’ve learned how to be a good teammate and they’re having fun,” he said. “I also want them to know we can do hard things.” Union seventh-grader Damian Estrada said his coach taught him to be a good teammate: “I try to encourage them and cheer even for the attempts. I want them to keep trying.” Draper Park coach Juli Riches, who appreciates the equal access of sports for all students, said it results in kindness. “We’re seeing how the kids are being kind to one another,” she said. “They’re accepting one another.” Draper Park’s PE teacher Ben Hulin added they learn from one another: “It’s a cool way for peer tutors to learn from the special education students and from the students to learn from them. There’s teamwork in that as well.” At Midvale Middle, coach Katelyn Parry said it has developed into something more. “After practice, the kids will go have lunch together and play together, which is really cool to see,” she said. “We’ve become more of an inclusive community.” Midvale Middle sixth-grade student Abby Pendrey agrees: “I’ve made friends; we play together and have fun. We do things at school together. That makes me happy.” Eighth-grader Ty Larsen has helped his peers both on the field and in the classrooms at Draper Park.
Eastmont edges out his opponent for a shot on goal in Canyons School District’s middle school unified soccer tournament. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
“On the soccer field, I let them have the ball, because it’s for the kids; it’s not for us,” he said. “I like going to class together. They make me have a smile on my face every day.” At the end of the tournament, it was more of a celebration of a shared experience where goals were celebrated, friendships were formed and confidence grew on every field. “I love the unified environment,” Albion parent Kim Wedlick said. “It gives all students a moment to lead and shine.” l
Sandy City Journal
Canyons teacher of the year finds magic in every student
Silver Mesa Elementary’s Lisa Hayes says the greatest rewards come from helping students discover their abilities and that they belong. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
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he walls of Lisa Hayes’ classroom at Silver Mesa Elementary tell a story. Among Hayes’ colorful student drawings, handwritten notes and treasured creations collected over the years is a Snoopy drawing made by one of her current students, one of her favorites. It hangs alongside the others, a reminder of the students she teaches, each one representing a relationship, a breakthrough or a moment of joy. Those moments, Hayes said, is the essence of teaching. “It’s always been about the joy, the connection and the relationships, she said. It’s a philosophy that has shaped her 17 years at Silver Mesa and helped earn her the title of Canyons School District Teacher of the Year. Hayes said the honor is about more than personal recognition. “I have been given an opportunity to represent special education; I want to embrace that and bring a positive light to it,” she said. Growing up, Hayes said she was a “latchkey kid” who was independent and resourceful but supported by family. Those experiences helped shape her understanding of students she works with today. “It helps me understand these kids are coming with different types of families or communities,” she said. “Sometimes they’re facing uncertainty and need support.” Before Silver Mesa, Hayes taught special education in multiple states and settings, from public schools to treatment
centers and outdoor programs. Once she dreamed of becoming a nurse, but after fainting while watching someone clean a wound, she knew it wasn’t meant to be. A volunteer experience with Special Olympics changed her path. “Teaching was really outside of my comfort zone because I didn’t like to be in front of people,” she said, but the relationships drew her in. “Even making a hardcore kid who’s been sent to a program by a judge laugh, smile, find joy in learning, that’s what I need.” When she moved to Sandy, Hayes discovered Silver Mesa first as a parent. Her daughter had loved school, but in first grade, struggled with the experience at another school. The principal welcomed the family and placed her daughter in a beloved firstgrade teacher’s classroom. “She was magical, an amazing teacher,” Hayes said. “I knew right then, I wanted to be like her.” Hayes volunteered in the classroom, immersed herself in the community and eventually, returned to teaching full time with the principal’s support. Hayes now teaches fourth- and fifthgrade student in an accommodated core classroom, where every lesson requires creativity, flexibility and problem-solving. In a single classroom, she ensures every student with different needs can engage with the same concept, even when paths look different. “I love creating access points for every student,” she said. “When it happens, it’s magic.” Hayes advocates for inclusion. Early in her career, she was given a classroom without any teaching materials except for some outdated textbooks. At Silver Mesa, when she needed to move her classroom from a portable to a school classroom, she wanted a central location, so her students
For her birthday, Canyons School District’s teacher of the year, Lisa Hayes, celebrated by inviting Scales and Tails to share a dozen critters with her special education students at Silver Mesa Elementary. (Photo courtesy of Ellen McCloy)
Silver Mesa special education teacher Lisa Hayes was selected Canyons School District’s teacher of the year. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
were seen. She also ensures her students participate in field trips, assemblies, classroom celebrations and other activities alongside their peers. “Our kids need to be part of the school,” she said. “You want inclusion, you want equality and you want to bridge it and make connections.” Her influence extends beyond students as she dedicates time to helping families navigate challenges. One parent, whose child is preparing for middle school, meets with Hayes monthly to better understand the school system, special education and American culture after recently moving to the United
States. Building those relationships is key to student success, she said. While she is appreciative of the recognition, Hayes said the greatest reward is helping students discover their abilities and sense of belonging. One recent moment stands out. A third grader recognized Hayes and ran across the cafeteria to give her a hug. “She said, ‘you were on my iPad, Mrs. Hayes’ after seeing my photo as teacher on the year on the school website,” Hayes said. “She made the connection to herself and got that light shined on her. She felt valued — and that’s something bigger than any award.” l
Song about a little ladybug earns student a big recognition Canyon View’s Lucy Sachs, and several other Canyons School District students, earn national recognition in PTA Reflections program. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
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anyon View fourth-grader Lucy Sachs entered the PTA Reflections program as a fun, creative project. Winning a national title wasn’t her motive. However, Lucy earned the National PTA Reflections Award of Excellence in Music Composition for accessible arts with her original song inspired by this year’s theme, “I Belong.” The song tells the story of a curious ladybug on a journey to find where it belongs. Along the way, the tiny traveler explores all kinds of imaginative places from the ocean to outer space, through jungles and bee colonies and even inside a human stomach before finally finding a home on a leaf. “It was a good theme to do and it was fun,” Lucy said. While she spent significant time revising and refining her literature entry, the winning song “Ladybugs Belong,”
S andy Journal .com
came together quickly. “It was last minute, and I sang it once for the recording,” she said. As her entry advanced from school to district and region, and even state and nationals, Lucy was amazed. “I’ve never won nationals before. I was really surprised,” she said. Her music entry wasn’t her only success. Lucy also won state in literature, earning recognition for a heartfelt poem inspired by her family’s cabin, which was lost in an Oregon wildfire. For Lucy, Reflections is about more than awards. “I like being creative,” she said. With the 2026-27 theme, “What My Culture Means To Me,” Lucy already is thinking ahead and wants to enter every category. “Doing art is fun,” she said. Other top Canyons School District winners include Eloise Sonntag, Canyon View, primary, literature award of excellence; Miles Packer, Draper Elementary, intermediate, visual arts award of excellence; Elsa Dent, Eastmont Middle, dance choreography award of merit, accessible arts; and Caleb Ellsworth, Jordan High, photography award of merit. l
Canyon View’s Lucy Sachs was among several Canyons School District students congratulated by PTA members and school staffs on earning national Reflections awards. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Junly 2026 | Page 17
Several local robotics teams took part at the FIRST world championships after competing in Utah qualifier. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
A
cademy of Math, Engineering and Science senior Bryce Holland competed at the FIRST Robotics World Championship alongside his teammates, culminating years of learning, problem-solving and perseverance. “We did pretty well,” Holland said. “It was my first time there, so it was really fun.” The Houston-based championship brought together about 600 of the best robotics teams from around the world. For AMES, qualifying for the event was a significant achievement. The school attended the championship by earning a spot through the Utah Regional qualifying competition. AMES, and other teams, spent weeks building and refining robots to compete in a challenge. Success requires not only engineering and programming expertise, but also teamwork, strategy and thinking under pressure. There also are business and outreach components. At the world championship, the Murray charter school faced a sensor issue. Mechanical breakdowns are a frequent occurrence many robotics teams encounter throughout the season. “We had a few issues on some of our matches. Our gyro came unplugged, which was kind of tragic, but for the most part, we had it working consistently,” Holland said. As programming lead, he helped improve the team’s reliability by introducing simulation technology that allowed students to test software first. “Basically, the software was bulletproof before the robot was ever built and that was incredible, super helpful,” he said. The world championship also gave students the opportunity to interact with teams
From Utah to the world stage
across the globe. While AMES handled most repairs independently, cooperation with teams they were paired with remained an important part of the experience. “Most of our communication with other teams was strategizing before the match, figuring out what we’re going to do and how we’re going to work together,” he said. Utah teams performed well at the championship. Holland said West High’s team advanced to the Einstein round, which featured the top alliances from each division. “That’s the best a Utah team has ever done; it was cool to see,” he said. Waterford School’s robotic team also competed at the world championships after qualifying at the Arizona contest. Junior Leo Duggirala said robotics experience taught him valuable engineering skills and resiliency despite testing the robot for weeks before competing. “A lot of things still can go wrong in a competition; it requires us to quickly think through it and come up with a solution,” he said. Classmate junior Nitya Sunkara said collaboration was key to the Sandy private school’s success. “It is definitely teamwork makes the dream work,” said Sunkara, who wants to study electrical engineering. “When we get mad at each Waterford students, who participated in the world championships, took part in the robot game other, we can’t accomplish anything. But when at the Utah regional qualifier. (Julie Slama/City Journals) we’re chill about it, we get a lot more done.” Corner Canyon Charger Robotics from Draper didn’t advance to the world championships even after being selected as one of the teams in the finals at the Utah qualifier, but senior Jefferson Nelson valued his robotics experience. “When I was a sophomore, I joined robotics because it sounded fun, and I want to be an aerospace engineer,” he said. “I’ve learned a lot of valuable skills with robotics, but also with communication and teamwork. Robotics has become a good home and community for me.” l
Crescent Elementary alumni gathered for a photo opportunity after walking through their elementary school one last time. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Crescent grads return to the den By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
A Alta High students work on the robot in the pit between rounds at the Utah regional qualifier. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Page 18 | July 2026
cross Canyons School District, high school seniors returned to their elementary schools before graduation to receive cheers from current students. Several Crescent alumni returned to their elementary school before graduating from Alta and Jordan high schools. Alta High senior
Quincy Thatcher said elementary students clapped and blew bubbles. “We gave them a lot of high-fives,” she said. “It was super cute.” Classmate Brynn Pierce added, “I liked seeing a few of my elementary teachers and peeked into my fifth-grade classroom. It was nostalgic.” Principal Kierstin Draper summed up the moment, “It’s inspiring for our students to see the former Crescent Cubs and fun for those returning.” l
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Creating kindness, one click at a time
Alta High PTSA grant helps students and parents explore positive social media to become better digital citizens. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
A
lta High students and parents recently gathered in the school library for an evening focused on a topic that today impacts nearly every family: social media. Through presentations, discussions and student-led conversation, the Alta High PTSA’s “Create with Kindness” event encouraged families to explore ways to use technology safely, responsibly and positively. The event was made possible through a $4,000 National PTA grant — $3,000 through the Create with Kindness program and an additional $1,000 through the Voices of Impact initiative. “We wanted to educate kids about how to be safe and have a positive presence while online,” Alta High PTSA President Sandy Stock said. The evening included a four-student panel coordinated by the PTSA student club leader Cassie Smith, who shared their perspectives and experiences on social
media; Canyons School District’s digital safety team’s Katie Gebhardt and Jonathan Stewart highlighting common online challenges and helping families recognize unhealthy digital habits and Heather Huish of Stand4Kind, who served as the evening’s featured presenter, leading discussions about digital citizenship, online kindness and creating healthy boundaries with technology. Organizers said a memorable activity was Stand4Kind’s Lemon Challenge, designed to promote positive online interactions. Participants recorded videos sharing kind comments about others, challenged friends to do the same and ended by biting a lemon to symbolize gossip is sour while kindness can spread quickly. “That was the opposite of what people experience while online with all the digital drama,” Stock said. The evening also featured results from the survey which was completed by about 400 Alta students. The findings offered insight into how students view social media and challenged some assumptions held by adults, said Sherry Iverson, Alta High PTSA treasurer. “From the survey, most teens have positive experiences online,” Iverson said. “We realized we need to match in the middle,
Families learned about safe and positive ways to use technology at Alta High PTSA’s “Create with Kindness” even. (Photo courtesy of Sherry Iverson)
where parents are worried and scared and teens look to it positively.” She also said students, who said they’re on social media two to four hours daily, believe it strengthens connections with friends and family. Their most common social media platforms were YouTube, followed by Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat. Stock said one of the biggest takeaways was the importance of communication
between parents and teens. “We need to communicate with each other,” she said. “Ask what kinds of experiences they’re having online, how they’re involved, have them teach you something.” Stock said only 80 schools nationwide received the grant from more than 1,500 applicants. With a portion of the funds remaining, organizers plan to support future PTSA efforts benefitting Alta students. l
New Canyons Innovation Center reimagines career education District leaders say the Center will prepare students for college and careers through real-world projects and industry partnerships. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
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anyons School District is transforming the former eBay regional headquarters in Draper into an Innovation Center designed to connect students with hands-on career training, industry partnerships and real-world learning experiences. Canyons Innovation Center, located at 12943 S. 700 East, is expected to open fall 2027 and will replace the district’s current CTEC campus in Sandy. Renovations are already underway as crews reconfigure the building into specialized learning spaces for healthcare, engineering, media production, trades and technology programs. Leading the project is the Center’s new director, Reid Newey, who previously launched the Catalyst Center in Davis School District. “The big vision we want to create is a profession-based learning program,” Newey said. “We want to do in collaboration with industry and business to guide what our students are learning.” All 15 CTEC programs, including Certified Nursing Assistant, medical assisting, cosmetology, animation and cybersecurity, will relocate to the new location. The district has assembled a 25-member advisory committee representing healthcare, aerospace, defense, cybersecurity and technology. However, Newey said the district’s goal is not simply moving programs. “Rather than just moving programs, we want to reconfigure the learning process and move to a more profession-based learning,” he said. “We want our industry leaders to come and work with our students on authentic projects that will not only satisfy curriculum requirements, but will give our students an authentic experience in the industry.”
Page 20 | July 2026
Canyons Innovation Center will open in fall 2027 and will offer profession-based learning programs. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
New programs planned for the Innovation Center include culinary arts, hospitality, engineering, manufacturing and machining along with expanded multimedia and video production classes tied to CSDTV. The Center plans to offer cross-curricular projects that mirror real business needs. Students in business, media, computer science and drone programs could work together on marketing campaigns, app development and video productions for local companies. The Center also will expand its artificial intelligence program. CTEC launched its first AI concurrent enrollment course this year in partnership with Utah Valley University and Newey hopes the district will add data analytics instruction “because that really forms the backbone of AI.” The renovated campus will feature engineering and drone classrooms, robotics, manufacturing labs, film studios, animation classrooms, cosmetology salons and on the second floor, an expanded medical training area. The separate trades building will house welding, diesel mechanics and construction programs.
Canyons District sold the CTEC building to help finance the new Center, which can serve up to 3,000 students. During its first year, officials anticipate 1,800 students will participate in programs while continuing to attend classes at their home high schools. Bus transportation will be provided for students from the district’s five comprehensive high schools. Additionally, Canyons School District was awarded a $17.2-million Catalyst Center Implementation Grant from the Utah State Board of Education to help transform the Innovation Center. Canyons business administrator and CFO Leon Wilcox said the renovations are cost effective. “In the long run, this still should be cheaper than building a whole new school,” he said. Another aspect of the Center is the partnership with the Utah STEM Action Center to create a location that can host field trips, robotics competitions and outreach for students of all ages. “We want to create as much opportunity with increasing our programming and getting kids involved earlier in the opportunity to have a real industry experience in their education,” he said. Newey said current CTEC employees will transition to the new Center, so no jobs will be lost during the move. Teachers already have begun training through the Center for Advanced Professional Studies network and will continue periodic professional trainings. “I think the Innovation Center will create a new demand for education,” Newey said. Canyons Superintendent McKay Robinson agrees. “It’s an awesome opportunity, where students will be able to engage in cutting-edge learning, build real world skills, and have access to career pathways that didn’t exist, even a decade ago, and be able to rub shoulders with our industry leaders,” he said. “I’m going to carry the innovative vision forward that Dr. Robins (former superintendent) established with our board of education.” l
Sandy City Journal
Alta High’s Peer Leadership Team members helped incoming kindergartners pledge to attend Sprucewood Elementary on “signing day.” (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Future Falcons’ sign on at Sprucewood By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
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prucewood Elementary gave its incoming kindergartners a fun welcome during this year’s orientation. “We’re having a ‘signing day’ theme, as they do when athletes commit to play at colleges and universities only, we’re having them sign to be in school,” said Assistant Principal Anna Livingtson.
Future Falcons celebrated the start of their school journey by signing with handprints on a poster, receiving certificates and putting on Sprucewood ball caps to mark the occasion. Alta’s Peer Leadership Team members and their Herbie the Hawk mascot joined Sprucewood’s mascot, Falco the Falcon, to make the event fun. “This helps them know Sprucewood is a special place,” Livingston said. “We’re all about being a community school.” l
At Sprucewood Elementary, families used their creativity and imagination during STEAM Night. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Sprucewood’s STEAM night showcases ingenuity, discovery and laughter
Fairytale musical and hands-on learning created memorable night. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
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rom nursery rhyme celebrities to students building a colorful Chihuly-inspired chandelier, Sprucewood Elementary’s annual STEAM Night transformed the school into a celebration of creativity, learning and imagination. Families filled the classrooms to participate in hands-on activities including creating photo keychains, experimenting with sound, exploring math games and contributing to a collaborative art project inspired by the work of glass artist Dale Chihuly. Artwork filled the hallways, showcasing their work throughout the school year. The evening’s featured performance was “The Granny Awards,” a musical for 65 second- through fifth-grade students produced by choir director Christina Van Dam with choreography by Madeleine Guymon. Audio support was provided by Peyton Lee, while Lauren Cow helped create signage and props. The storyline follows the granny from “Little Red Riding Hood” as she hosts an awards show honoring famous nursery rhyme and fairytale characters. Along the way, the big bad wolf tries to steal the spotlight, creating plenty of laughs from the
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audience. In amidst the show were fairytale commercials, allowing more students to have a moment to shine. Van Dam said the musical, with its fourmonth rehearsal schedule, provides valuable learning experiences beyond the stage. “They gain confidence, learning how to memorize lines and deliver them clearly,” she said. “Learning the music is good for their brains and being able to do the choreography with the music is a great skill. For a lot of them, they’re learning responsibility to set their alarm and get here at 7:45 in the morning ready to rehearse. Watching them grow, step into roles and become excited about this opportunity, makes it worth it.” Every student, joined by staff and faculty, participated in the show through their art skills. Taught by art teacher Hannah Osmundson, they decorated paper trophies, which then adorned the multipurpose room for the performance. Parent Laura Begent, who had fifthgrader Davis portray Jack of “Jack and the Beanstalk” and third-grader Abby, who played Jill from “Jack and Jill,” was helping her first-grader Connor make a photo keychain before the production. “The programs at school which get my kids excited talking about are the extra ones, so art, science, engineering, choir and those,” she said. “It’s fun for them to explore and discover and for me, I like to come see them enjoy it in the moment.” l
Junly 2026 | Page 21
Western state educators get inside look at Eastmont’s AVID program Eastmont Middle shares the practices transforming their classrooms and preparing students for the future. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
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astmont Middle School opened its doors to educators from across the West this spring for its first AVID Demonstration Day, giving 45 visitors a first-hand look at how the school has transformed teaching and learning. AVID, which stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination, is a program that helps students build academic, organizational and critical-thinking skills needed for success in high school, college and their future careers. Through writing, collaboration, inquiry and active learning, AVID empowers students to take ownership of their education. The AVID Showcase encouraged visiting teachers, instructional coaches, assistant superintendents and other educational leaders to see how AVID strategies are being implemented throughout Eastmont’s classrooms. “We opened classrooms for people
to see AVID in action,” Principal Stacy Kurtzhals said. “They see good teaching, which they said they don’t see in regular classrooms.” Visitors toured multiple classes, took in teacher and student panels and were guided by student ambassadors who explained the rigorous academic work happening in their school. One student, who was part of the panel, described how challenging and rewarding his academic experience has been at Eastmont compared to his previous school. He said he feels more prepared for his next level of schooling. “The whole point is to prepare them with the skills they need to move on,” Kurtzhals said. “Everyone knows how to work through hard, rigorous academic coursework. With more rigorous work, our scores are going up and we have high rates of teacher retention because we’re aligned as a school and are supported.” This is Eastmont’s first AVID Showcase. Eastmont has been an AVID school since 2014 and was named a National Demonstration School last year, a designation awarded to schools that successfully Educators from throughout the western states came to learn from Eastmont students and implement AVID strategies schoolwide. l faculty about the AVID program. (Stacy Kurtzhals/Eastmont Middle)
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Quail Hollow students bring history to life Third graders stepped into the shoes of famous figures, sharing their stories, at school’s annual wax museum. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
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fter practicing his presentation 15 times a day for a month, Quail Hollow third-grader Silas Johnson was ready to portray Walt Disney. Standing proudly beside his display, Silas shared what he learned about the animation pioneer through weeks of research and preparation for the school’s annual wax museum. He also included a surprising fact. “Walt Disney’s inspiration came from his pet mouse, even though he didn’t like mice,” he said. Silas was one of dozens of third graders who transformed into notable figures from history, sports, literature and entertainment. The annual project challenged students to read biographies, write reports, create display boards and memorize presentations before dressing as their chosen person for museum visitors. “I like the wax museum because I was interested in Walt Disney and got to learn more about him,” Silas said about his hero who lived 20 minutes away from Disneyland. “I’d like to do his job, but it’s hard and takes time to do all
the orchestration of it.” Nearby, classmate Avalynn Waddoups portrayed the aviation trailblazer, Amelia Earhart. “I got a book from the library and learned since a young age, she wanted to be a pilot,” Avalynn said. “It would be fun to fly a plane and travel. I liked that she said girls and boys can do the same things. She’s inspiring and had a lot of courage.” Mia Mullalley chose Olympic gold medalist, Mia Hamm. “She’s known for soccer, but she also played football, baseball, basketball even though her mom wanted her to be a dancer,” Mia said. “She started playing soccer when she was 5 and then, refused to do ballet after a couple lessons.” Classmate Adele Oliveira said she learned her favorite singer Billie Eilish is generous. “She impacts the world by her kindness,” she said. “She donates her clothes to charity, she cares about the planet and supports organizations through her activism.” Third-grade teacher Amy Ebert said the project encourages students to think about the person, their accomplishments and life lessons. “Often they get inspired by someone, their passion or the important things they contributed Quail Hollow third graders took on the roles of famous people and educated schoolmates, to our society,” she said. “It’s a good experience families and guests during the school’s annual wax museum. (Julie Slama/City Journals) and one they remember.” l
Hawks come up short in repeat bid, fall in semis
Jack McAllister, signed to play at Portland next year, tallied eight goals and 11 assists during the Hawks season. Alta defeated Spanish Fork (6-1) and Skyline (2-1) to reach the semis.
Senior Beckham Butler unloads a shot during region play. Butler and the Alta Hawks soccer team won the Region 6 championship overcoming a daunting roster of historically competitive squads in Bountiful, Olympus, Skyline and Brighton along with Viewmont and Woods Cross.
S andy Journal .com
Tyler Jordan and Alta continued its status as a boys soccer blue blood in Utah. The Sandy-based team went 16-3 on the year, earning the No. 1 seed for the 5A state playoffs, before falling in the semis to Bountiful, a team it beat twice during region play.
Sophomore Madden McCallister rounds his defender during Alta’s only loss in region play. Alta’s loss to Bountiful in the semifinals, a team it beat in the semis during last year’s playoffs, stopped the Hawks from repeating as state champs. (Photos by Travis Barton/City Journals)
Junly 2026 | Page 23
Teachers show resiliency, find adventure at Zion Ragnar Relay
Sunrise, Silver Mesa teachers recently tested themselves on the rugged Southern Utah trails during an overnight race. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
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hile some people were relaxing on Mother’s Day weekend, a group of educators were somewhere in the dusty hills outside of Zion National Park, running in the dark of night, trying not to get lost on the trails. Current and former teachers from Sunrise and Silver Mesa elementaries teamed up with others to tackle the Zion Ragnar Trail relay, an overnight race featuring steep climbs, desert heat and miles of winding trails. Despite the challenge, the team approached the race with humor, teamwork and what Sunrise kindergarten teacher Grace Cobabe described as “positive vibes.” Cobabe ran on the team with other Sunrise teachers Sara Allen and Natalie Scott; former Sunrise teacher Kelly Harp, now an educator in Davis County School District; and Silver Mesa teacher Natalie Wilkinson. They were joined by Scott’s husband, Alex Smith, and his co-worker, Luke Rowley, and Rowley’s wife, Emily. “Natalie texted us and asked us if we wanted to run the Ragnar and I said, ‘Heck,
Page 24 | July 2026
yeah,’” Allen remembered. They ran together under the team name, “Ships of Feetsius,” a running pun inspired by the philosophical “Ship of Theseus” paradox. While the name was clever, the race itself was no joke. Each runner completed three separate legs over the course. Allen recalled a 7.5-mile stretch with 600 feet of elevation gain as well as two steep 4-mile sections; one of which she described as “gnarly.” Runners passed off a race bib on each leg at the central camp at Ponderosa Ranch. Between runs, teammates tried to sleep in tents while alarms constantly went off through the night. “It was a good race. We only had one air mattress malfunction so only one of us had to sleep on the ground, only one tent pole broke and no one got sick or hurt,” Allen recounted. Smith was the team’s unofficial logistics director. “He made a whole spreadsheet of how we were to run the race. He was detail-oriented and took charge,” Allen said. The race wasn’t exactly a “walk in the park.” Several runners on the team accidentally added extra mileage after taking wrong turns on poorly marked trails. “When I was running up this hill, there was another runner coming down the trail and I thought, ‘Oh loser’ because he went the wrong way. Then I realized I was on the wrong trail
Team, “Ships of Feetsius,” including current and former Sunrise and Silver Mesa teachers, recently ran the grueling Zion Ragnar Trail relay. (Photo courtesy of Sara Allen)
and did the same thing,” she laughed. Runners tackled the trails with headlamps, flashlights and water bottles since the race was cup-free. Temperatures hovered around 85 degrees during the day, with no shade from the desert sun. Cobabe said she found relief and beauty in her night run. “Honestly, the prettiest part was at night. I turned off my headlamp and looked up at the stars,” she said. “Stars filled the horizon; it was so beautiful.” Cobabe, who now is training for a marathon in September, said she’d do it again — “It’s thrilling to prove to myself I can do hard
things” — but next time, she’d train properly. “I only ran maybe up to 3 miles before this,” she said. Allen, who ran the same race in 2017, said she also was “winging it,” but added that Harp had been doing 11-mile training runs and won a sprint triathlon for her age group the following weekend. Back at Sunrise, the race became an accomplishment that was shared. As the runners wore their race shirts to school, students checked out their medals and became inspired as well. “I always feel better after a run,” Allen said. “I have more energy and I’m a happier person — even after this race.” l
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Park Lane students reach for the stars during school STEAM Night Annual STEAM Night sparks curiosity and builds community among families. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
M
ore than 300 Park Lane Elementary students, parents and community members joined for an evening of hands-on learning, creativity and family fun during the school’s annual STEAM Night. The excitement, which began at an assembly earlier in the day featuring the magic of science with Paul Brewer, continued that night as families explored 16 interactive stations staffed by PTA volunteers, student council members, Jordan High Peer Leadership Team and community partners. “The goal was to get kids interested in the sciences through play,” said PTA President Rebecca Gundersen. Students eagerly wanted to try the STAR Camp simulator from the Douglas Space and Science Foundation where they stepped into the role of astronauts
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and participated in a mock space mission. They also tried engineering challenges and hands-on experiments as well as watched science demonstrations to complete a STEAM bingo challenge. Adding an extra layer of excitement, Star Wars characters mingled with students as families moved from station to station. “The highlight was seeing so many students come with their families, seeing parents spend time with their children,” Gundersen said. Park Lane PTA board member Alicia Patrick said students loved the interactive experiences. “Events like STEAM Night give students the opportunity to explore, create and problem-solve in real time, helping build confidence and a lasting excitement for learning,” she said. Assistant Principal BJ Weller added students and parents met the projects with enthusiasm. “The kids were excited and parents were engaged,” he said. “It’s fun to see them discovering together.”l
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After some instruction, Eastmont Middle students take to the ice and take their best shot at the goal. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
At their field trip to the Utah Mammoth Practice Facility, Eastmont Middle students test their reaction time. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Eastmont takes STEM education to center ice Eastmont students stepped onto E the ice and into a science lesson as they became the first group to engage in a STEM field trip at the Utah Mammoth Practice Facility. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
astmont student Decklyn Hirschi was taking in every detail of her visit to the new Utah Mammoth Practice Facility in Sandy. The sixth grader wants to make hockey a career. “I love hockey and the Utah Mammoth,” she said. “I want to play professionally.” She, and other Eastmont Middle students learned about how STEM connects
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to the game, from the ice surface and board angles to reflexes, reaction time and gametime split-second decision making. “I learned about the Zamboni, about the cooling system, about where to aim the puck and some strategies hockey players use,” she said. “We got to hit the puck on the ice. Mine went into the goal.” Decklyn was among 80 students selected for the first-ever STEM field trip at the practice facility, earned through a school attendance incentive program. Students rotated through stations blending hockey and STEM, engaging in interactive activities and learning the science behind the sport. At one station, students caught falling sticks like quick-reacting goalies, then converted results into fractions and percentages. Another challenge used illuminated sensors where students raced to tap lit targets in NHL-style reaction speed. “It’s hard doing this,” said seventhgrader Tilly Mannion. “You have to be able to grab it as your partner says the color in mid-air. It’s hard to focus on all the colors.” Seventh-grader Eleanor Neve said players must be ready “when the puck’s coming to them unexpectedly.” Behind-the-scenes, students learned how the team maintains professional quality ice. Utah Mammoth Educational Programs Coordinator Kelly Quiel explained how refrigeration systems beneath the rink keep the ice frozen that is both clear and durable and the how the Zamboni works. “The Zamboni uses a system that sprays water and then scrapes the snow in back and it’s constantly doing that,” seventh-grader Christian Torres learned. Ice technician Adi Nielson said driving the Zamboni relies on feel and repetition: “It’s like driving a car, but you can’t always see, so it becomes muscle memory.” Science of Sport Director of Programs
Carly Stevens, who helped coordinate the visit along with VLCM Cybersecurity, said students connected classroom lessons to the real game play data like jump stats. Seventh-grader Landon Baker learned those different statistics, including height, wingspan, grip strength, vertical jump, are analyzed to help professional athletes.
“I learned about the Zamboni, about the cooling system, about where to aim the puck and some strategies hockey players use. We got to hit the puck on the ice. Mine went into the goal.” — Decklyn Hirschi Through the field trip, Principal Stacy Kurtzhals said students got a look at STEM-career paths beyond the rink and tied those skills back to the classroom. School safety advocate Celeste Nelson added: “The students are intrigued and they’re getting to learn about science and sport first-hand.” Canyons Board of Education member Karen Pedersen called it “a rewarding educational experience” and a strong example of STEM learning in action. “This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase STEM skills in the real world and it’s an honor to Eastmont that they were chosen to be the first group to come through with the quality of their STEM and AVID programs,” she said. “One of the coolest things is, this was a reinforcement of being at school.” l
Sandy City Journal
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Holden Warnick set school records for career three-pointers, single-season threes and single-game threes. (Photo courtesy of Tallon Robertson/Jordan High)
Kimani Archibeque set the 4A state record in softball for strikeouts in an extra innings game this season. (Photo courtesy of Ashley Brey/Jordan High)
Four Jordan High stand-out student-athletes, Bergen Jettie, Holden Warnick, Nedkary Alvarez and Kimani Archibeque, excelled this year, setting school or state records. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Bergen Jettie set a new school record with 65 three-pointers in a season and also, hitting a record seven threes in a single game, breaking her coach’s records. (Photo courtesy of Jason Long/Jordan High)
History made: Jordan High student-athletes rewrite the record books
Four student-athletes turn dedication and grit into history with record-breaking seasons. By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
R
ecords didn’t just fall at Jordan High; they were shattered. In multiple sports, four student-athletes delivered performances that rewrote the record books, both at school and at the state level. Whether it was a dominant showing from the mound, a relentless run on the mat or lights-out shooting from beyond the arc, these Beetdiggers — junior Kimani Archibeque in softball, junior Nedkary Alvarez in girls wrestling, and junior Bergen Jettie and senior Holden Warnick in basketball — made 2026 a year for the books. The student-athletes demonstrated dedication, resilience and a commitment to excellence, said Jordan High Assistant Principal Jason Long. “I’ve been fortunate to watch each of them compete and grow,” he said. “Their athletic success is a product of their work ethic.”
Kimani Archibeque – Softball
After recovering from an ACL injury her sophomore year, Archibeque has emerged as a dominant force in softball, setting the 4A state record for strikeouts in an extra innings game. Her journey began at age 5, playing T-ball, eventually growing into a passion as Archibeque advanced through competitive leagues. “I started to really love it during coach-pitch because it felt more like I was actually playing,” she said. Now as the team’s pitcher, Archibeque thrives under pressure, embracing the mental challenges of the game. Her record-setting performance included 28 strikeouts in an extra-inning game against Corner Canyon High. The previous record of 23 strikeouts was set in 2009. Not realizing it was a historic moment, Archibeque’s game was centered on the field, with her sister catching her pitches. “Her older sister, she’s our catcher,” said coach Ashley Brey. “They are a fun duo together and work well together and she has two younger sisters who play.” Archibeque knew she was pitching well that day, but “I was more focused on the game.” It wasn’t until the next day when she learned she set the strikeout record. “My teacher asked, ‘How did you do on your game?’ I was like, ‘I did really good, we won.’ Then he asked, ‘Why don’t you brag more?’ I was like, ‘What do you mean?’ Then he said I had set a state record. I thought it was crazy,”
Page 28 | July 2026
Bergen Jettie – Girls Basketball
On the court, Jettie has established herself as one of the top shooters in school history. She set a new school record with 65 three-pointers in a season, surpassing the previous mark of 61, and also, hitting a record seven threes in a single game. Jettie averages 16 points per game, while shooting 38% from beyond the arc. “I love the game of basketball,” she said. “I love the people you meet during it, and the experience you get to have with it.” Her record-breaking moment for the most threes in a season was against Bonneville. She bettered the record from six to seven when a member of her coaching staff, Emily Moss Vuyk, called a timeout. It was her record that Jettie beat. “She was like, ‘You just broke it. You did it.’ That was really cool,” Jettie said. Nedkary Alvarez finished second in her weight division at the Against Highland, she again broke her coach’s record, 4A state wrestling meet this season. (Photo courtesy of Beetsetting the bar at 65 threes in a season. diggers girls wrestling) Like WNBA star Caitlin Clark, Jettie believes “the deeper you go, the more fun it is.” Archibeque said. Having started playing with her dad in the backyard, Brey said she was first in region with 147 strikeouts this she has played consistently since, even traveling across season (as of press deadline). With outstanding pitching, the the country. With offseason practices and then shooting 90 Beetdiggers were set to play in the state playoffs. minutes on her own, her goals are t o lead the Beetdiggers and “I love how good we’re doing,” Archibeque said. “We’ve better her records next season. won more games this year than probably the last four years Holden Warnick — Boys Basketball combined. It feels good to win.” Warnick has left a lasting legacy on the boys basketball Nedkary Alvarez – Girls Wrestling program with school records for career three-pointers (142), On the wrestling mat, Alvarez has the second most single-season threes (71) and single-game threes (nine). A all-time pins in a season for 4A state for a female with 41 plaque with his record is in the school’s display case. pins and is No. 8 amongst all wrestlers. His love of the game started in third grade, playing in the Her record number came in her third season wrestling. driveway with his dad and younger brother, then in Jordan’s “I talked to Mr. Long and said, ‘What can I do? I want to Bantam youth league. do a sport,’” Alvarez said through translator Carmen Rufener. “I’ve made a lot of friends while I’ve played,” Warnick “He suggested wrestling, but I wasn’t sure because it sounded said. “I love threes more than mid-range.” like hitting. I was scared.” His scoring ability and confidence from long range has Although initially hesitant, she quickly found her place. made him a standout. He looks up to his role model Steph Curry. “I went the first time, and I really liked it,” she said. “I set a record my junior year, and then I broke it and set Alvarez quickly progressed, from participating in state two more this year,” Warnick said. as a freshman, to placing fifth as a sophomore to second in With plans to continue playing in college, he’s proud her weight class as a junior. She already is talking about of his accomplishments: “It’s cool being able to say, ‘I have senior year. school records.’” “I overthink things, and that’s why next year, I want to Long, who served as the school’s athletic director at one focus a lot on my mental approach,” she said. “I also want time, appreciates their marks at Jordan High, not only in the to work on my conditioning and learn new movements and record book, but amongst their teammates and peers. more strategies.” “I’m so proud to have these students at Jordan High not only With a small group of about 10 athletes on the team, for their talents and achieving these records; moreover, I’ve seen Alvarez said she’s found her niche. each of them be servant-leaders that have positively impacted “The coaches and my friends are the best,” she said. our school culture,” he said, adding: “Go Beetdiggers!” l
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Junly 2026 | Page 29
A more perfect union of hearts and principles
A
s our nation celebrates America 250, it’s worth asking what it really means to be a citizen of the United States. The Constitution is built on a simple but powerful idea: people should be free—free to speak, believe, assemble, act and worship. It protects our ability to make choices, even when others disagree. That freedom is not accidental. The framers also separated power— legislative, executive and judicial— because they understood something deeply human: we are imperfect. Unchecked power tends to be abused. So they built guardrails, not around perfect people, but around real ones. The Constitution itself was born from compromise. Large states and small states. Different economies. Competing interests. Deep disagreements. The founders didn’t eliminate those differences—they worked through them. Today, compromise is often dismissed as weakness. But peacemaking is not weakness—it is strength. We often talk about politics as two opposing sides, but that oversimplifies reality. Within each party are a wide range of ideas and perspectives. You will never find a leader—or a neighbor—you agree with 100% of the time. And that’s OK.
Aimee Winder Newton
Salt Lake County Councilmember District 3
Scholar Yuval Levin, in American Covenant, puts it this way: the Constitution answers a central question—how can we act together when we don’t think alike? His answer is not uniformity, but cooperation. The system works by requiring negotiation, bargaining and coalition-building. I see this firsthand in my role in county government. Our council includes members from both parties in nearly equal numbers. When we work together, outcomes improve. When we dig in and fight, progress stalls. The system works best when leaders work with each other—not against each other. Congress was designed with this same purpose in mind: to force opposing sides to negotiate and find common ground. The frustration many feel with today’s political climate is not because the Constitution has
failed, but because we are drifting away from how it was meant to function. Instead of persuasion, we often see performance. Cable news and social media reward outrage, not understanding. The more inflammatory the message, the more attention it gets. The more attention it gets, the more it spreads. And the more it spreads, the more it shapes our perception of reality. When we “like,” share and financially support politicians who attack, vilify or refuse to work with others, we are reinforcing the very behavior we say we dislike. We are, in effect, incentivizing division. Peacemaking, by contrast, is quieter. It requires listening, humility and a willingness to move forward together. It does not mean abandoning truth. It means recognizing that in a diverse society, progress often requires cooperation. Without compromise, we don’t get purity—we get paralysis. Yet today, there is enormous pressure to divide into “us versus them.” Instead of seeing neighbors, we see opponents. Instead of truth, we see spin. Instead of compromise, absolutism. Instead of charity, contempt. We can change that—but it starts with us. First, be principled, not tribal. Care more about what is right than who is right. Second, seek truth. Be thoughtful about
what you believe and share. If your news diet is dominated by one outlet—or your social media feed is filled with outrage—it will shape how you see the world. These platforms profit from strong emotional reactions. Don’t reward that model with your attention. Third, speak with civility. You can disagree without being disagreeable. Fourth, work with others—even those you don’t fully agree with. Relationships matter more than winning an argument. Fifth, participate. Vote, engage and serve. Too often, only the loudest and most extreme voices are heard. And finally, lead with charity. Remember that every person you disagree with is still worthy of respect. The Constitution can only do so much. It creates a framework, protects rights and structures power. But it cannot make people virtuous. That responsibility belongs to us. We live in a time of division—but also a time of opportunity. An opportunity to be better citizens. To use our agency wisely. To defend freedom with responsibility. To build unity without demanding uniformity. If we do that, we won’t just strengthen our nation—we will help create a more perfect union of hearts and principles.
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Sandy City Journal
I
had my first glass of water at the age of 27. I was at my doctor’s office for a physical and he asked how much water I was drinking. The answer was zero, but I thought it was a trick question. I hedged my bet and said, “Um, two?” “Two what?” he asked. “Two waters?” “Give me a measurement.” “Tablespoons?” He sighed and told me I was dehydrated. Looking back, that makes sense because I hadn’t had a glass of water in more than a quarter-century. Growing up, we drank four things: Kool-Aid, orange juice, milk and soda. Even our ice cubes were made from Kool-Aid. I never remember going to the faucet to get a glass of water. We used the faucet to fill up water balloons. On the weekends, I’d ride my bike 40 miles, play two games of basketball, hike Mt. Timpanogos and play at the park until it was dark, and I never, ever stopped for a glass of water. If I got thirsty, I’d swing by 7-Eleven to grab a Fresca and a pack of candy cigarettes. We didn’t carry expensive, gallonsized, bedazzled Stanley cups where we could sip cucumber-infused, artisan well
S andy Journal .com
A tall drink of water Peri Kinder Life and Laughter
water through a biodegradable straw. We would have mercilessly mocked anyone who did. I did have a metal Thermos that came with my Holly Hobbie lunch box, but it always smelled like sour milk, even when it was filled with Hawaiian Punch. We didn’t drink water at school except after lunch recess, when we were allowed to have one gulp from the water fountain at the back of the room. But Raymond B. always put his mouth on the faucet and then no one else wanted to drink. Raymond was Patient Zero for all diseases in our class. If we were driving with Mom around town and got thirsty, she wouldn’t throw us a bottle of Dasani. She would hand us a stick of gum and say, “Chew this until you have enough spit to swallow.” I didn’t know drinking water was an option. Well, that’s not quite true. When we
played outside, we’d drink it straight from the hose like God intended. It was cold, refreshing and full of lead and arsenic, but it quenched my thirst. I never would have poured water into a cup and just sat around like a fancy person, sipping Perrier with my pinky in the air. No hoity-toity water for me, thank you. But then, single-use plastic bottles were created and water became an industry. Why drink water from the hose for free when you can purchase tap water in a bottle? We were told to drink eight glasses of water every day. Who has time for that? Social media influencers took drinking water to a whole new level. They are responsible for making reusable water bottles a lifestyle necessity, launching brands like Yeti, Hydro Flask and Stanley into the liquid stratosphere. Do you know how many water bottles are in my home? As of yesterday, there were 4,628, most of them branded from events, including the 17 my husband has from the Sundance Film Festival. We can blame data centers for taking our water (and I do), but maybe we should share culpability for the world’s dehydration by carrying 100 cubic meters of water with us wherever we go.
My eight-year-old self is sitting on a bench at Murray Park, puffing a candy cigarette and swigging Fresca. My 27-year-old self is learning how to drink water every day. My current self just knocked my Yeti mug over for the umpteenth time, spilling water all over the desk. Progress or product placement? Peri Kinder is an award-winning columnist and journalist who has written for The City Journals since 2004. She also hosts the Life & Laughter podcast. Peri can be reached at peri.k@thecityjournals.com.
Junly 2026 | Page 31
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