Author’s story of the Silk Road immerses Albion students into integrated learning
Julie Slama
Samir, from “The Man Assassinations of Samir, the Seller of Dreams,” mirrors the author’s father: a lively, engaging man who captivates people with his storytelling.
“Samir’s not the main character, but he takes center stage,” author Daniel Nayeri said. “He owns the spotlight and was inspired by my dad. When he’s in a restaurant, somehow all the other tables are in a conversation with us. He tells big stories, and he likes being around people and talking and haggling. He’s one of those great storytellers.”
Like his father, Nayeri is a natural storyteller, often weaving his personal experiences into conversations to make a point. During his visit to Albion Middle School, he shared memories of his childhood—his mother and his stuffed lamb, trips to the ice cream store with his father, whittling with his son and his wife’s fashion expertise helping him choose scarves and berets for his signature look.
When Nayeri enters a classroom, the students greet him enthusiastically. He teases one student about the opportunity to pay her to do her social studies homework, and as a former pastry chef, challenges a teacher to a bake-off. As a woodworker who crafts wooden spoons, he discusses sandpaper grits and woodworking safety with students, though he’s reminded to avoid cutting off a finger with the band saw.
His hands are critical to his work as they craft the stories he pens. As an immigrant from Iran, Nayeri’s journey was shaped by his experiences at refugee camps and arriving in Oklahoma at
At a school assembly, teachers pose students’ questions to author Daniel Nayeri, with a batik students made for him near the stage. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
age 7, not knowing English. He and a boy from Kansas were cast as outsiders, and together they became lifelong friends and that boy inspired a character in Nayeri’s book, “Everything Sad is Untrue (A True Story).”
“My mom is a central part of that story; and it’s about the strength of my mother and she’s a hero in that story. Everyone says that story is a love letter to your mom,” he said.
Nayeri’s childhood experience of living without a stable home for several years also influenced “Samir,” who travels the 11th-century Silk Road. Sometimes Nayeri would tell his immigration story as a funny tale; other times it was a grand adventure.
“I have friends who were engineers, and they would talk about when they were young how they would take apart the family toaster and put it back together again, just to see how it worked,” he told students. “I felt like that’s what I ended up doing at your age, with stories. I got to engineer stories, and I fell in love with it. “
About 800 students, along with parents, faculty, staff, and community members, read “Samir” in the months leading up to Nayeri’s visit. Two hundred books were circulated across grade levels, and some classes followed along with Nayeri as he read the audiobook.
The Albion community engaged deeply with the story. In cooking classes, students made date snacks from the book, art classes created batiks and pottery inspired by the Silk Road, and the school band and orchestra played music based on it. Math students simulated trade along the Silk Road, while history classes integrated the story into their Utah Studies curriculum. Even parents participated in a book discussion, and faculty created scenes during a paint night.
“The greatest compliment you can get as a writer is that it inspired more work,” he said. “It was so cool to see a whole school take on a book like this. It has been enriching that every teacher and every student at Albion took it on and made it their own. I get to celebrate something outside of myself, because they made it theirs.”
He said of his 30 visits to schools per year, “I never had a school do this at this level.”
Nayeri’s visit began when Stephanie Kourianos and her colleagues saw him at the 2023 National Council of Teachers of English conference. It took about 18 months to secure funding through grants—Donors Choose, Can-
said. “He’s personable, genuine and wants to get to know each student.”
In a social studies class, he was surprised to see they were reading Voltaire. Finding a connection, the former high school linebacker and fullback shared his first story was about football, inspired by Voltaire. He also read an excerpt from his book, “Everything Sad is Untrue (A True Story),” the school’s book club selection for February, and participated in a game of “Four Corners,” where he picked his favorite things, like eating lamb kabobs, which appeared in “Samir.”
Nayeri recently completed two new books: a graphic novel, “The Bizarre Bazaar,” and a World War II historical novel, “The Teacher of Nomad Land,” about a brother and sister in Iran who meet a Jewish refugee boy from Poland. He first began writing on subways and in cafes, but now he works in a shed in his backyard. He writes significant portions by hand before switching to a computer to avoid distractions, all while continuing to jot down ideas or doodling while thinking of what to write next.
yons Innovation and Voya Unsung Heroes—that enabled the purchase of 200 books and to bring Nayeri from New York to Albion.
“We wanted to teach kids that learning is connected, that a story that you read in ELA (English Language Arts) has connections with your history class, your math class, your science class and how learning isn’t isolated,” she said. “We wanted to make this an all-community read and discovered what we can do with one story, how much power a story has and how much the ideas and themes you learn from the story can be put on a much bigger platform.”
Once Nayeri arrived, he fully immersed himself into the school culture created by his book, much like Monkey (an orphaned boy raised by monks, fondly nicknamed by Samir) adapts to the Taklamakan Desert. He was welcomed from class to class, talked to faculty over dinner and read sixth-grade students’ own writing and offered feedback.
“I read dozens of stories and they’re incredible, at a high level. I got to do a deep dive with the kids who are interested in writing and talk shop,” he said. “That’s really fun, to roll up our sleeves and get into it.”
That was remarkable to Principal Eric Gardner.
“To have a Newbery Honor award writer sit down and give sixth-grade students feedback on their writing, to have him inspire them, it was incredible,” Gardner
“I have a shelf of notebooks where the real first edition of every single one of my books exists,” he said.
Now a recipient of the Michael L. Printz Award, the Christopher Medal, and a Newbery Honor, Nayeri’s work has earned acclaim. Yet, he is authentic with students.
In one of his final classroom visits, Nayeri collaborated with seventh-grader Lela Bills, who designed a cell phone holder for him based on “Samir.” After hearing other students pitch names for new characters in his books, he smiled at Lela and said, “I could work with Lela; it’s a Persian name.”
Lela smiled; she is a fan of “Samir.”
“I was nervous for the end of the book, but I was happy for the ending,” she said. “This has been fun having the whole school involved in the book. I’ve compared the Silk Road to the Oregon Trail, we drew settings and made character sketches in ELA and now, I’m with this famous author, creating the cell phone holder I designed based on his book.”
In his last few hours, Nayeri continued to share stories with students before heading to the airport. His suitcase likely felt heavier, filled with gifts from students—a batik of the donkey, a scarf made for him by a student, fidget toys based on his stories and more. His mind, too, may have been full of the adventures he’s shared, much like Samir. l
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When author Daniel Nayeri came to Albion Middle, he immersed himself in classes, including woodworking where he worked alongside seventh-grader Lela Bills in creating a cell phone holder she designed. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Local therapist turns personal challenge into powerful advocacy
Now running his private practice, David Dodds uses assistive technologies and draws from his personal experiences to provide empathetic, client-centered therapy.
By Rebecca Olds rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com
DavidDodds, Sandy resident and Murray business owner, knows firsthand that life’s greatest obstacles can become powerful opportunities for growth and service. At 16, when most teenagers are dreaming of athletic scholarships, Dodds faced a pivotal moment that would reshape his entire life trajectory: losing his ability to play baseball due to retinitis pigmentosa, a progressive eye disease.
Diagnosed in kindergarten, Dodds gradually lost his vision, experiencing a defining moment during a night game when he could no longer track the baseball.
“I remember standing out there, and I remember following the ball, and then it hit the bat, and then I lost sight of the ball, and left and right fielders are running at me, going, ‘What are you doing?’” he said. “That was probably the first memorable moment I realized this disease is going to affect me in life.”
By 18, he had surrendered his driver’s license, becoming legally blind. But for Dodds, this was not an ending — it was a beginning.
“I’ve got this motto that those feelings
happen, but we’re not going to let this beat us,” Dodds said.
This resilient attitude propelled him through significant life transitions, from a successful retail career to becoming a licensed clinical social worker.
After working his way up to store director at Smith’s Food and Drug, Dodds decided to reinvent himself. He enrolled in the Training and Adjustment Services (TAS) program, a rigorous one-year initiative designed to help visually impaired individuals navigate life completely blind. Remarkably, he completed the program in just six and a half months.
Social work, though, was never in his plans and essentially “found” him.
“I was looking more like a lawyer or some type of psychologist, the doctor route,” he said. “But when you’re blind, you struggle just to figure out what kind of a field you could fit in, where you’re not going to be judged, and can you even do that?”
He went the social work route because the field allowed him to interact with all of those other career fields he was interested in, and allowed him a meaningful way to help people.
Dodds earned a bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of Utah, becoming a top 10 finalist for university speaker. He then entered an advanced standing master’s program, typically accepting only 24% of applicants and graduated with a 3.997 GPA.
But Dodds didn’t just succeed academically — he transformed the system. Encountering significant barriers during internship searches, he advocated for visually impaired students. He worked closely with university departments to establish 15 internship programs that would welcome students with disabilities, ensuring future students wouldn’t face the same challenges.
Now running his own private practice, Dodds specializes in complex trauma, grief counseling and couples therapy. He uses assistive technologies like JAWS, VoiceOver and Braille to manage his practice, demonstrating that technological innovation can bridge accessibility gaps.
His approach to therapy is deeply personal. “Therapy isn’t about getting fixed,” he explains. “It’s about understanding accountability and learning to live life for yourself.”
Dodds is acutely aware of societal perceptions surrounding disability. “Visually impaired people just want to be heard, want to be understood, want to matter,” he said.
His practice reflects this philosophy, offering a holistic, genuine approach that prioritizes client trust and individual needs.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dodds is a passionate advocate. He works to challenge misconceptions about disability, educating others about the capabilities of visually impaired individuals. His message is clear: disability does not define potential.
For Dodds, every challenge has been an opportunity for growth. From losing his
baseball career to becoming a respected therapist, he has transformed personal adversity into a powerful platform for helping others navigate their own complex life journeys.
He suggests when interacting with anyone with disabilities to ask questions and communicate with them, see the person not just the disability, treat them as individuals and respect their autonomy.
“Visually impaired people just want to be heard, want to be understood, want to matter,” Dodds said. “We’re going through life, just like anyone else.” l
(This article was written with the help of AI)
Utah Chiefs of Police Association launches recruitment drive
The Find Yourself in Utah Law Enforcement Career Day April 30 hopes to promote career opportunities.
By Travis Barton travis.b@thecityjournals.com
As part of a multi-year effort to increase recruitment in law enforcement, the Utah Chiefs of Police Association announced a Find Yourself in Utah Career Day, set for April 30 at the Peace Officers Standards and Training in Sandy (410 W. 9800 South).
The career day is meant to promote career opportunities while showcasing what Utah has to offer.
“We estimate that the State of Utah will need to fill 1,000 law enforcement vacancies by the year 2030. This compounds an already historically difficult hiring picture, with many of our police departments and law enforcement already operating short-staffed,” said Chief Brad Bishop, president of UCOPA and chief of the Payson City Police Department. “Utah offers a multitude of opportunities and benefits, including sign-on bonuses and homebuying stipends for officers, making the American dream of home ownership a reality for
a new generation that has faced difficulty. Speaking from experience, Utah is where you put down your roots and start a family, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision to work in this great profession in this great state.”
Leaders and hiring managers across all aspects of policing, corrections, campus safety and law enforcement from large statewide agencies to small rural departments will be on hand showcasing their people, equipment and training.
There will also be representatives from the Utah Women in Law Enforcement, ULEAP (Utah Law Enforcement Administrative Professionals), and Mental Health Clinicians, along with many other critical non-sworn opportunities that support our public safety professionals.
Events will include SWAT team demonstrations, K9 search and rescue, drone operation and crime scene analysis among other things.
In a press release, UCOPA reported having more than 500 students registered since it began outreach to high schools and colleges a few weeks ago.
“Not only is hiring important, but hiring the right people who are dedicated and committed to serving their communities is imperative,” Chief Bishop said. “Two years ago, Utah’s law enforcement leaders stood up and said that competition was counterproductive. Instead of battling each other for a
limited applicant pool, what we really need to do is increase the qualified applicant pool. We need to show more people what a career here in Utah looks like for them and for their families. The product of that work has been the Find Yourself in Utah campaign.” l
(Courtesy of Insightful Beginnings Counseling)
Salt Lake County Sheriff Rosie Rivera speaks during the UCOPA press conference launching Find Yourself in Utah. (Photo courtesy POST)
Sandy’s MVP facility hits year mark
Once a controversial topic in Sandy, the Medically Vulnerable People Facility has proven its value in its first year, serving 388 individuals and providing thousands of meals.
By Rebecca Olds rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com
The innovative Medically Vulnerable People Facility located on a main artery of Sandy City celebrated its first year at the end of February.
What was once a bit of a controversial topic in the city for fear of how it could strain local law enforcement, Councilmember Cyndi Sharkey said during a city council meeting that she is “impressed with the improvements” made in the last year.
Mayor Monica Zoltanski said the building now has a “homey, lived-in feel.”
“Has it been easy? No,” she said. “Has it been worth it? Yes.”
The facility, built as a partnership between several nonprofits including Shelter the Homeless, Fourth Street Clinic and The Road Home, serves as a safe place for those experiencing homelessness and who are medically vulnerable either due to age or health.
Over the course of the first year, 388 individuals were served who ranged in age from 31 to 86 years old. Because of the program, 26 individuals were moved to permanent housing or long-term care facilities. In addition to the housing of individuals, 81,560 hot meals were served.
Jeniece Olsen of Fourth Street Clinic said “2024 was a year of programmatic change.”
In the first year, several changes and additions created an even better place for those staying there and for the surrounding neighbors.
On the medical side, a provider was added onsite to meet with patients, giving them access to care two days a week; a pharmacist was also added to the staff that addresses diabetic management situations and helps with medication reconciliation; a lab was added for testing onsite; and EMT hours were extended to cover from 6 a.m. to 12 a.m. which reduced dangerous incidences by 19%.
Externally, there was an 8-foot wall constructed to expand exterior courtyard space, new asphalt, ADA stalls and mulch, along with a whole new configuration for smoother in-and-out flow for security at the entrance to the facility.
Other interior additions included an anti-slip surface, a heating/cooling unit installed in the communal space, directional signage and additional security cameras.
“Throughout the year, we’ve adjusted and made improvements,” said Laurie Hopkins, who serves as executive director of Shelter the Homeless and is the vice chair of the Salt Lake Valley Coalition to End Homelessness. “We have a year under our belt. There’s been so much ground covered and people helped.”
Goals for 2025 include stabilizing staffing, increasing engagement in behavioral health services and continuing to refine and add to the medical model established in the first year. l
Albion claims multiple championships in Canyons District 3-on-3 basketball tourney
Albion comes out on top in boys’ and girls’ seventh- and eighth-grade title games.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Theannual 3-on-3 basketball games in the Canyons School District middle schools were fiercely competitive, with Albion Middle School’s team claiming victory in the boys’ and girls’ seventh- and eighth-grade tournaments.
“The seventh-grade boys’ final was very exciting,” said intramural tournament organizer Taylor Hansen. “Both the first-/ second-place game and third-/fourth-place game ended with a free throw shoot-off.”
In the sixth-grade girls’ tournament, Draper Park took home first place, with Butler securing second. Albion’s teams A and B competed for third and
fourth, respectively.
On the sixth-grade boys’ side, it was a close contest between Butler and Indian Hills. Butler’s A team defeated Indian Hills’ B team in the championship, while Indian Hills’ A team triumphed over Butler’s B team for third place.
Albion clinched the seventh-grade girls’ championship by defeating Edgemont and Mount Jordan beat Indian Hills to win third place.
In the seventh-grade boys’ tournament, Albion’s A team claimed the title over Indian Hills’ A team, with Indian Hills’ B team taking third and Union finishing fourth.
Albion secured a win over Butler in the final of the eighth-grade girls’ competition. Draper Park finished in third place while Mt. Jordan took fourth.
Finally, in the eighth-grade boys’ championship, Albion’s A team came out on top against Indian Hills’ A team, with Butler’s A team finishing third and Albion’s B team placing fourth. l
Sandy’s Medically Vulnerable People facility reaches first anniversary of serving individuals experiencing homelessness. In 2024, 388 people were helped. (Photo courtesy of MVP facility slide show)
A new 8-foot impermeable fence was built during the MVP facility’s first year to create a courtyard for residents. (Photo courtesy of MVP facility slide show)
An Albion player and an Eastmont player both go for the ball in the sixth-grade girls’ 3-on-3 middle school basketball game. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Supporting the whole student: How Canyons School District is tackling mental health challenges
Canyons School District provides help for anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Excessiveworry, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and other symptoms can signal anxiety or depression in students — and they are not facing these challenges alone.
In Canyons School District, more than 200 students are receiving support at any given time, according to Nicole Svee Magann, district student wellness services assistant director.
“We’re seeing kids struggling with how to resolve conflict; they’re struggling with peer interaction,” she said. “We need to teach how we communicate and resolve problems in a kind and empathetic manner and how to navigate the world in a safe, kind way. We are deeply committed to helping these students succeed and ensuring they have the emotional support they need to thrive in healthy learning environments.”
All students receive some form of support, including the district’s own social-emotional curriculum, Thrive Time, which was introduced this year in kindergarten through eighth-grade classes, according to Brian McGill, district student wellness services director.
“The curriculum is focused on helping kids create self-awareness and respecting themselves and respecting others through building self-esteem, building healthy relationships with other students, communicating and understanding their community,” he said.
The curriculum also helps students set both academic and career goals, while teaching them healthy conflict resolution skills.
At the high school level, students involved in the quarterly High School Leadership Academy learn strategies related to adversity, resilience and collaboration. They also create action plans to implement these strategies in their schools, guided by advisers.
“Plus, our wellness team has lessons on things like resilience, grit, motivation and those metacognitive lessons,” he said.
McGill suggests parents pay attention to their students’ mental health, considering not just their stress levels and peer influences but also their nutrition, sleep, physical activity and other factors which contribute to well-being. He emphasized the importance of discussing mental health in a safe space and offering patience and support.
While all students benefit from pre-
ventative supports, additional resources are available for students who need help addressing challenges or accelerating their success.
When mental health concerns arise, both McGill and Svee Magann recommend reaching out to the school counselor or social worker for guidance. After the initial visit, parents must sign a FERPA consent form, as required by law.
In elementary schools, there is typically one counselor or social worker; in middle schools, there are two to three counselors; and high schools employ six to eight counselors, along with social workers and a school psychologist.
“All schools have a school student support team when they see students struggling, to help build support for those students,” Svee Magann said. “We also have a district support team with psychologists and others to provide additional kinds of support. Then, we can reach out to the community to connect students with those who do actual therapy; what we do is more related with school skills.”
The district partners with several contracted agencies to help students, with Project Connections and Hopeful Beginnings being the most common.
“If we see a student with significant issues who needs ongoing support and therapy, then we can bring them to the table, if the students and parents are interested,” he said.
In addition, the district offers seven free mental health screenings each year. Students complete a Terrace Metric Survey, which assesses mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and stress.
In the 2023-24 school year, 125 students participated in these screenings, and the number is expected to remain the same this year, said Kelly Redican, the district’s prevention specialist. She added about 30% of those students screened required mental health assistance.
“We have a lot of behavioral issues in our schools at higher volumes than we’ve ever seen,” McGill said. “It’s a culmination of things. COVID certainly had an impact on all of us, but it’s a whole host of reasons — the challenges that come in some homes with economic disparity, split homes, kids being neglected, being abused, having difficult home lives, all of that, obviously can contribute to behaviors in school. And school is the end-all catch-all source to solve the child’s problems.”
He drew a comparison to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.
“Schools and school districts are being more required to try to help support some of those fundamental needs so that we can get them to a place where they can prioritize
their learning, because if they don’t have a lot of those basic needs met, then learning in school comes secondary. Because nine times out of 10, if kids are projecting behavior at school, there’s a need that’s either not being met outside of school, and then we need to provide an analysis and support for both the child the parents, and if needed, get them hooked up with resources to help,” McGill said.
Additionally, Canyons Family Center provides individual counseling, student support groups, and educational classes, including teen self-esteem, anger management, emotional intelligence, substance abuse prevention, a divorce class for kids and parenting strategies for students with ADHD. Additional support services are available for grief counseling, suicide prevention, physical aggression and other needs. The center also can connect families with community resources for mental health treatment.
In the 2023-24 school year, Canyons Family Center completed 30 intakes and 12 short-term counseling sessions and they are on track to surpass those numbers in 202425, with 40 intakes expected by mid-May, Redican said.
She also said two classes — Anger Management and Substance Abuse — serve more than 600 students and their parents or guardians each year.
A new initiative this year is the IHC telehealth pilot, offered at 17 schools. This allows students to get screened at school and arrange for prescriptions to be picked up by parents. The service helps students remain at school while receiving necessary medical attention, with equipment and services donated by IHC. It is expected to expand to more schools in the 2025-26 school year.
“We’ve had such success with it, in keeping kids in school and working with parents who are checking of the well-being of their children at school. It becomes a time savings for parents as they don’t have to take their children to a doctor and to a pharmacy as well as a cost savings as the service is being offered free,” he said, adding that it’s also available for all employees.
Canyons’ nursing team also is an integral part of the wellness team.
“The school nurses play a very vital role in the schools as it relates to the physical health and well-being and the welfare of the child, which oftentimes can reflect in mental health and vice versa,” McGill said. “We talk about mental health, but really, it’s part of this umbrella of health in general, of the student’s welfare and wellness. Our No. 1 focus and goal is to provide wellness supports to students in school so they can focus on their learning. We want them to be safe, be healthy and ready to learn.”l
NEED HELP?
Here are some options for students seeking support.
1. School counselor or social worker— Reach out to get guidance and support navigating through challenges.
2. Canyons Family Center — Get information for individualized counseling, classes, screenings and resources — (www.canyonsdistrict.org/depts/ student-wellness-services/canyons-family-center/) or Student Wellness Services (801) 826-5416 or (www.canyonsdistrict.org/depts/ student-wellness-services/).
3. For immediate help in crisis situations— download and use the SafeUT app for confidential chat and tips on mental health or reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling or texting 988.
Oaks Medical Group in Draper is Here For You
Tell us more about you. How long have you been with the company and what quali cations do you have?
We currently have three great providers with Oaks Medical Group in Draper.
Todd W. Furness, DO, has been working in Draper since August of 2013. He received his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Degree from Des Moines University in Iowa. Prior to that, he received his undergraduate degree from Brigham Young University-Idaho in Rexburg where he graduated summa cum laude.
Breony Stoddard, PA-C, is a board-certi ed Physician Assistant. She has been in practice since 2008. She graduated from the University of Utah with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. She then went on to attend Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, where she graduated with her Master of Physician Assistant Studies on the Dean’s list, top of her class. Bre specializes in women’s health and contraception, including IUDs and contraceptive implants.
Brian Ekberg, PA-C, MPAS, CRC, received his undergraduate degree in Biology with a religion minor from Paci c Lutheran University in Washington, and went on to get his Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies with an emphasis in Bioethics from Midwestern University. He has practiced in primary care and urgent care for over 11 years in Las Vegas before moving to Utah.
How long has your business been in business?
Lone Peak Family has been located in the Sandy and Draper area for the past 25 years and is excited to have recently joined with the Oaks Medical Group. This came about thanks to the shared
vision and desire to continue providing personal and quality care to our community.
What products and services do you o er?
We cover a broad spectrum of care from yearly physicals and women’s health to illness and injuries. Common treatments include chronic disease management, management of long-term conditions such as hypertension, COPD, diabetes, mental health and cardiac issues, as well as care coordination and major disease prevention.
What sets your company apart from your competitors?
We focus on consistent care of each individual in an environment where you can have the same provider follow you along your health journey. We believe in personal communication and strive to have you interact with real people on the phone and in the o ce.
Does your business solve a problem for your customers? If so, tell us how.
We provide care and advice for healthy living. We do that through regular check-ups and appointments.
Who is your ideal client/customer?
Anyone needing routine medical care such as physicals, medication management, chronic condition management, or who falls ill and wants to feel better. If that sounds like you, we’re here for you!
How do potential clients normally choose between you or a competitor?
Our providers spend quality time with their patients as they work towards getting or keeping them healthy. What factors should potential customers be basing their decision on (referring to above question)?
Their ability to get in an see a medical provider along with achieving the desirable outcome of living a more healthful life.
Care that Feels Like FAMILY.
What is your best advice for someone who is considering doing business with you?
We appreciate clear communication and work to deliver the same in return. It helps to know your intentions and goals so that we can start addressing your needs.
What is your favorite product/service your company o ers?
We like to perform yearly physicals or wellness checkups to catch any major problems that may arise early. Bre has a passion for working with women’s health; performing contraceptive implants, IUDs, and gynecological exams. She also likes helping people with more urgent health concerns.
Where can customers nd you?
74 Kimballs Lane Bldg 2, 2nd Floor Suite 260 Draper, UT 84020 801-895-3146 oaksmedicalgroup.com
If you are a service provider, what is your service area?
We’re happy to see anyone who will come to our o ce in Draper!
Anything else you would like our readers to know about your business?
We have new doctors starting in the near future and are looking forward to our increased capacity to care for more members of our community. We are looking forward to seeing you!
Todd Furness,
Breony Stoddard, PA-C
Brian Ekberg, PA-C Scan
LONE PEAK FAMILY
Waterford is regional winner, Alta claims awards.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Atthe 2025 Utah regional FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) robotics competition, 40 high school teams competed in a three-day event, showcasing their skills.
One standout team was Waterford’s “First Year Ravens,” whose robot 3166 was part of the regional-winning alliance. Other teams from Sandy that participated included Waterford’s “Ravens,” Jordan High’s “Grave-
diggers” and Alta High’s “New Hawks” and “Icarus Innovated”— the latter earning the Team Sustainability Award.
Waterford and Alta also competed at the Idaho regional contest, with Waterford’s “Ravens” being a regional finalist and Alta’s “Icarus Innovated” receiving another honor, the Gracious Professionalism Award.
The competition is designed to inspire and encourage high school students to engage with science and technology, pushing them to apply their STEM and teamwork skills in designing and programming robots to tackle various challenges. Each year, the competition takes on a unique theme; this year’s game was titled “Reefscape.” l
Jordan High’s “Gravediggers” robotics team competed with 39 other high schools at the three-day Utah regional FIRST robotics competition. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Alta High’s “Icarus Innovated” earned a couple awards when they competed in the FIRST robotics competition, “Reefscape.” (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Waterford School’s “First Year Ravens” robotics team was part of the Utah regional winning alliance. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
The drivers of Alta High’s “New Hawks” and Jordan High’s “Gravediggers” control their robots, number 7934 and 6411, respectively, during the challenge. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Waterford School’s “Ravens” direct their robot, number 3245, during the regional contest. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Beyond the game: Unified basketball builds bonds and breaks down barriers
Canyons middle school unified basketball teams learn skills, teamwork, sportsmanship while bringing joy and becoming friends off the court.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Onthe basketball court, sixth-grader Wyatt Shipp receives a pass from a teammate and takes the shot. The ball goes in, and a smile spreads across his face. His teammates, along with players from the opposing team, celebrate with high-fives.
“Basketball is my favorite sport,” he said. “I practice a lot in my driveway and with my friends on my team.”
Wyatt is part of Draper Park Middle School’s unified basketball team, where students with and without intellectual disabilities play together. The team was participating in the Canyons School District’s middle school unified basketball tournament.
Cheering from the stands was Wyatt’s grandfather, Doak Duncan.
“It’s thrilling to see the joy of these kids making baskets,” he said. “We didn’t know Wyatt was ever going to be able to do any of this. He’s got a very rare gene where he has low muscle weight, experiences a lot of seizures and has low retention. We weren’t sure he would be able to sit up or stand or even walk. It’s a miracle he’s playing basketball.”
Canyons School District Assistant Superintendent McKay Robinson appreciates the value of unified sports.
“Unified Sports are the absolute best,” he said. “They aren’t just about the game; they’re about breaking barriers, building friendships and teaching every student the true meaning of
inclusion and teamwork.”
Wyatt’s coach, special education teacher Morgann Collins, believes unified sports provide students with a chance to develop both sports and social skills.
“They get to be part of a sports team when they might not have the opportunity on, like a typical sports team,” she said. “They are excited for our basketball practices to learn how to play and to practice together. They came in this morning, screaming and so enthusiastic, saying ‘It’s game day.’”
Collins added it’s not just the athletes who are excited, but also the partners who support them.
“Our partners do an amazing job of making sure everyone is getting opportunities to shoot and involving everyone. They’re good to cheer on our own athletes as well as the athletes on the other team. This might be their first interaction working with people with disabilities, and as they’re transitioning to being older kids, they recognize they’re a partner and the game is for the athlete. And their parents are appreciating it as well. I had a parent of a peer tutor tell me that he’s super grateful his son had the opportunity to be part of this team and he was able to just witness the greatness of unified basketball,” she said.
The opportunities extend beyond the court, with the school’s Buddy Club offering a chance for students to sign up and eat lunch with peers in Collins’ classroom.
“They can go outside after they’re done eating lunch or they can play games they want to and stay inside. A lot of our kids are social, and the kids want to be friends; they don’t see them as students with disabilities, but as equals they want to hang out with them,” she said.
Eastmont sixth-grader Zacc Turner agrees, appreciating the experience of play-
ing with friends.
“I like playing the game and playing with my friends,” he said. “We’re about to go up against my best friend’s team; I played with him last year at recess at Sandy Elementary. It’s just fun to compete and hang out with my friends.”
Zacc’s coach, career and technical education teacher Mark Snow, said some athletes were nervous at first, but their excitement grew as they played.
“Now, they’re all excited and having fun,” he said. “This means everything to these kids. It’s fun to watch them play together as a team. It was a big deal for them to represent Eastmont. They love picking their jersey numbers.”
Since basketball was a new skill for some
students, the team practiced daily for 45 minutes starting in January.
“We taught them how to dribble and do layups. We talked about sportsmanship and to have fun. You don’t always have to win to have fun when you play sports,” he said.
Canyons Board of Education member Karen Pedersen saw the sense of community and inclusivity firsthand when an opposing team member helped push a player in a wheelchair just to include them in the game.
“It’s fun because they’re really friends out on the court,” she said. “Many students want to know each other. The focus isn’t on winning and losing. It’s everyone having that opportunity to succeed and be seen — and support one another.” l
Jordan’s unified basketball team fosters friendship and opportunity to students of all abilities
Utah’s unified basketball program has grown to more than 200 teams who compete for a state title.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
After sharing the ball all game, Jordan High sophomore Raul Galleguillos stepped up to sink a basket for the Beetdiggers, just like he was shown how to in practice. As a member of the school’s unified basketball team, he plays alongside students with and without intellectual disabilities. “My team tries their best and I try to help by passing everyone the ball,” he said. “The best part is having fun
playing with everyone on my team. I hope we make it to state.” Galleguillos and his team recently participated in a multi-team tournament at Murray High, one of several held throughout the Salt Lake Valley, providing more opportunities for teams to compete.
Supported by Special Olympics Utah and the Utah High School Activities Association, the program has experienced impressive growth and now features over 200 coed unified basketball teams in high schools across Utah. l
A Jordan High player
basketball tournament at Murray High. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Mt. Jordan Middle School players bring up the ball in a game against Albion Middle during Canyons School District’s middle school unified basketball tournament. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
steals the ball from Highland High during a unified
No limits: Hillcrest senior demonstrates determination in sports, arts and service
Hillcrest Special Olympian embraces every opportunity in his journey of resilience and inclusion.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Area high schools are preparing for their commencement ceremonies in May and June and many high school seniors are eager to leave their classrooms to step into the workforce or continue their education and training.
While some students balance their schoolwork with part-time jobs or extracurricular activities the last few weeks, Hillcrest High senior Etiennemichel Camis-Bateman is fully immersing himself in everything his school has to offer.
Camis-Bateman is involved in cross country and track, cheerleading, the swim team, the school musical and the career club. In addition, he’s a Special Olympian, participating in Hillcrest’s unified soccer and basketball teams, as well as competing individually.
“He was born eight weeks premature in South Africa; I was told by doctors he wouldn’t survive,” said his mother, Michelle Camis, who named her son after a Paris cathedral. “Etiennemichel has had
every diagnosis in the world, and we still don’t know what all he has; and it doesn’t matter. He’s making up for lost time.”
Camis explained in South Africa, where they lived, there were no special education options available to him after fourth grade, so she homeschooled him. When they moved to St. George for a few months, everything changed for her son.
“A lot of doors opened for him when we moved here. We couldn’t believe he could go to school, he could eat in the lunchroom with other kids, he could be in Scouts, that there were no restrictions. He went to an arcade, he learned to drive a bumper car, he learned to swim, to ride a bike. Every week, another door opened,” Camis said.
After briefly attending Olympus High, Camis-Bateman found his home at Hillcrest, where he has taken a range of classes, from theater to guitar.
“He first went out for cross country then he went to a school dance. He started going to football games. When he got to the game, the kids started giving him highfives and hugging him; I felt like crying. They welcomed him instead of pushing him out. He has never had a single day of discrimination at Hillcrest. He goes to softball, lacrosse, basketball — every sport, almost every game,” she said.
Camis-Bateman’s enthusiasm for supporting others extended to his role as a cheerleader. Initially, his mother was unsure about him trying out for the squad.
“He’s not flexible; he is not coordinated. He cannot do the splits or a back flip,” she said, adding she expected he’d get a shirt and pom poms and just cheer alongside the team. “I was told, ‘No, it’s not going to go like that. He’s part of the team.’ To their credit, they’ve treated Etiennemichel as a member like the others; he got the Husky Heart Award for his school spirit. That was huge for him.”
Assistant Principal Andrew Yawn remembers the unforgettable moment during senior night for the cheerleaders at a basketball game.
“Etiennemichel came out for his senior night, and it was the loudest cheer,” Yawn said. “He’s a super nice kid. He goes out of his way to say hi and give me a high-five. He makes friends easily and the kids love him. He’s accepted. Hillcrest is a good community for everyone. I’m sure if he could, Etiennemichel would do every sport and every activity here if there was enough time.”
Recently, Camis-Bateman has added even more activities to his list. During job shadow day, he visited the legislature, where he spoke with lawmakers about re -
strictions faced by people with disabilities. Camis-Bateman also shared he is registered to vote.
Outside of school, he played Charlie in a local production of “Willy Wonka Jr.” and has earned 30 athletic medals, including one from the St. George triathlon. Now, he’s preparing to run the Salt Lake half-marathon.
“I want to give it a try,” Camis-Bateman said. “I like running.”
Additionally, he volunteers training Golden Retrievers to assist people in need of emotional or physical support.
“I want people to be happy, to be with the dogs, to be loved, to have a friend,” Camis-Bateman said. “I want to work with animals. I want to be a veterinarian assistant.”
With just a few weeks left before graduation, Camis-Bateman isn’t finished yet. He is submitting a film for the school district film festival about his experiences with differing abilities both in South Africa and the United States. He is also planning to audition to speak at graduation, which falls just four days after his birthday.
“It’s something I want to do,” Camis-Bateman said. “I want people to know what the school means to me.” l
Many area secondary schools are hosting commencement ceremonies this month and June. Here are some local graduations details. For more information, contact the schools.
Alta High – 2:30 p.m., May 29, at Utah Valley University’s UCCU Events Center in Orem.
Beehive Science & Technology Academy — 7 p.m., May 22 at Salt Lake Community College’s Jordan Campus in West Jordan.
Brighton High — 6 p.m., May 29 at the Maverik Center in West Valley City.
Diamond Ridge High – May 28, Alta High’s Performing Arts Center in Sandy; time yet to be announced.
Entrada High – 7 p.m., June 12 at Alta High’s Performing Arts Center.
Hillcrest High – 2 p.m., May 29 at the Maverik Center.
Jordan High – 9:30 a.m., May 29 at the Maverik Center.
Jordan Valley – 3 p.m., May 23 in the school multipurpose room.
Juan Diego Catholic High — 9 a.m., May 24 in the school’s auditorium.
Valley High — 9 a.m., June 3 at Salt Lake Academy’s Zions Bank Stadium in Herriman.
Waterford School — 7:30 p.m., June 5 on the school campus.
Comcast RISE to award millions in small business grants
Getting a small business off the ground, or scaling to the next level, takes more than hustle and passion. It takes resources. A small business grant can be the difference between success and failure, and Comcast is investing in success.
The Comcast RISE program will award comprehensive grant packages to 100 small businesses in Bluffdale, Draper, Herriman, Riverton, Sandy, South Jordan, West Jordan and White City. Through May, Comcast will accept applications from small business owners who are committed to growing their companies, lifting their communities and inspiring the next generation.
“The Comcast RISE program will deliver innovative and impactful resources that will make a lasting impact on small businesses in Utah. Supporting small businesses is crucial for economic development and ensuring that the backbone of our communities can thrive,” said J.D. Keller, senior vice president of Comcast’s Mountain West Region. “Among the many things we all love about Utah is our vibrant small businesses and Comcast’s commitment to supporting them.”
Each grant includes a technology makeover (with digital services for one year), access to online entrepreneurship
courses, coaching sessions, a business assessment and $5,000. Grant recipients will also receive a professionally produced TV commercial and media strategy consultation.
Scott Cuthbertson, president/CEO of the Economic Development Corporation of Utah, said small businesses are the foundation of the state’s economy. More than 90% of companies in Utah are considered small businesses, run by families, friends and neighbors. He said it’s essential that these businesses succeed.
“Comcast is such a valued partner,” Cuthbertson said. “They make critical investments in our infrastructure and we think they’re exemplary about how they invest back into the community, in particular, through this RISE program that provides needed support to our small business owners.”
Andrea Benitez is the fundraising manager at Suazo Business Center, which offers resources for economically disadvantaged businesses. Through education, workshops, and access to capital, the center has helped launch hundreds of small businesses, generating millions of dollars in revenue.
Benitez’s clients include minority and underserved populations who need direc -
tion for creating a business. They might not qualify for a loan or don’t want to go into debt to fund their dreams, so the Comcast RISE program could be a game changer for these struggling entrepreneurs.
“This Comcast grant is just a great opportunity for them to apply and help their business grow,” Benitez said. “We have lots of clients in that part of the valley and we’re going to help them apply for this grant.”
Diana Lopez owns Cakes by Edith, a popular bakery with two locations in the Salt Lake Valley. As a small business owner, she understands the obstacles faced by entrepreneurs and the many hats they have to wear to keep their businesses running.
As Cakes by Edith grows, Lopez hopes to expand to a third location where she can continue to carry on her family’s legacy. She said if she’s awarded the Comcast RISE grant, she’ll use the funds for marketing and equipment.
“There are so many trends in the baking industry and we’re trying to stay current with everything in the baking world,” Lopez said. “This opportunity with Comcast would provide for businesses in the area. For us, honestly, we would love that opportunity.”
The southern end of Salt Lake County
has seen significant growth during the last decade and is geared for more expansion. The South Valley Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Salt Lake Community College, offers a 10-week entrepreneurial program to help small business owners find resources for success.
Jay Francis, president/CEO of the South Valley Chamber of Commerce, said small business owners face myriad challenges as they try to get an idea off the ground and that this Comcast RISE program could give them the momentum they need to create something big.
“If a business is fortunate enough to be able to receive one of these grants, I think that’s huge. It’s a real lift and a real boost,” Francis said. “I appreciate Comcast and I think more opportunities need to be afforded to small businesses. This fits in really well with things that we’re focusing on as a Chamber.”
Utah is one of five regions to receive 100 Comcast RISE small business grants this year. Recipients from Salt Lake, Boston, Grand Rapids, Nashville and Seattle will join the 14,000 entrepreneurs nationwide who have been supported through the program since it launched in 2020. For more information, visit www.ComcastRISE.com. l
Small business owners in Salt Lake County can turn possibility into progress with help from a Comcast RISE grant. (Photo courtesy of Comcast)
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Congratulations to our April Members of the Month, Lenox Chandler, Estella Morlan, & Brandon Flores Ramos! Lenox is 11 years old: Lenox is not sure what he wants to be when he grows up. Lenox has been attending the Sandy Club for 4 years, in that time he has learned how to make a lot of friends and be nice. Estella is 6 years old: she wants to become a teacher, she has been attending for 5 months, in that time she has learned how to make slime. Brandon is 8 years old: he wants to become a teacher, he has been attending for 6 months, and in that time he has learned how to make bubbles. Congratulations once again, we are so proud of you all!
Harry Potter magic boosts reading at Willow Canyon Elementary
From quidditch to butterbeer, students were engaged on a magical reading adventure.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
When given the option, fifth-grader Eliza Boyer’s first choice isn’t to sit down and read a book.
“I don’t like reading,” she said. “But I’ve enjoyed it more this month because we were working toward earning this reward party. It’s fun to do these activities here, but also all month when we’ve learned about Harry Potter at library and STEM.”
A Harry Potter-themed monthlong reading challenge engaged the students of Willow Canyon, culminating in a lunchtime party for the winning house. The event featured butterbeer, Hagrid’s toss, fortune telling, Harry Potter trivia and the discovery of wizard names.
“We started with an assembly where we sorted each teacher into a different Hogwarts house,” said Meghann Shaw, PTA member who oversaw the reading month. “It was really fun, because we had somebody play Professor McGonagall, and we had a sorting hat and a microphone, so it appeared like the hat was talking to the kids.”
Throughout the month, the houses competed in a reading challenge.
“They could read anything — so if their parent is reading to the student or if the student reads a book and then even listening to an audio book counted. Some students turned in 100 minutes per day; they’ve been excited about it,” she said.
As the competition neared its end, more than 115,000 minutes had been logged.
Additionally, for every 100 minutes read, students’ names were entered into a drawing for prizes. Every week, names were randomly drawn for donated gifts and gift cards.
“We drew one per grade to motivate them to read; many students were enthusiastic about it because they wanted to get more tickets for the prizes and gift cards since those went to individuals,” she said.
Most classes also held read-a-thons for an hour, allowing students to bring blankets, pillows and snacks while reading. The minutes they spent reading were added to their house’s total.
Students also dove into the Harry Potter universe through various activities. In PE, they played quidditch; in STEM, they learned transfiguration by modeling objects with clay; and in the library, they participated in a bookmark-drawing contest. Every grade had winning bookmarks, which were made and distributed to all students in that grade for literacy month.
Poppy Hunt won the fifth-grade contest with her Harry Potter-themed bookmark, drawn with colored pencils and crayons.
“I love to draw,” she said. “It took me two weeks to do it.”
Reading is another one of Poppy’s passions.
“Any chance I get, I read. I read every night for at least 50 minutes. I had about 5,000 minutes this month,” she said.
Poppy also enjoyed the book swap held this year.
“So many people brought books to swap,” she said. “I liked finding a new one to read and hoping someone likes mine.”
Shaw said many people contributed extra books.
“We had more than 400 books that were donated so every kid got to choose a good book,” she said. “The Willow Canyon community is amazing.”
Every school day brought new moments of fun. As students walked the hallways, they spotted their teachers on Az-
kaban “wanted” posters, along with house banners and their own artwork. Students dressed as their favorite Harry Potter characters, wore house colors and teachers signed up to wear costumes as well.
“We called it ‘I Spy Harry Potter’ so everyday students tried to see who Harry Potter was,” she said.
Many students also participated in the search for the golden snitch, which was hidden around the school — in the library, lunchroom and even near the principal’s office.
“It was a scavenger hunt, where each week the kids had to see if they could find the golden snitch in different common spaces; they had a lot of fun with that,” Shaw said. “That and the book swap were new this year.”
Planting seeds for the future: support local schools with plant sales
Fresh vegetable starts will be on sale in May at both Jordan Valley and Entrada High
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Jordan Valley School will host its plant sale fundraiser on May 9, starting at noon and running until 3 p.m., or until all plants are sold. The sale will feature vegetable starts, including cucumbers, squash, peppers, and tomatoes, priced at four for $5. The fundraiser will take place at the school, located at 7501 South 1000 East in Midvale. Additionally, Entrada High will kick off its plant sale at noon on May 1 at the CTEC greenhouse, located at 825 East 9085 South in Sandy. l
Jordan Valley students help prepare for their plant sale, which will be on May 9, and will benefit the school. (Stacey Nofsinger/Jordan Valley School)
Shaw has been involved with Willow Canyon’s Literacy Month for seven years, with the last four focused on a Harry Potter theme.
“It’s something the kids can really relate to, and everybody gets excited about with reading,” she said. “It’s a great way to involve kids and motivate them to get to know each other and read to earn points for their houses.”l
Students had fun using props in a photo shoot during Willow Canyons’ Harry-Potter themed literacy party. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Using a wand in hand, a Willow Canyon student keeps the balloon afloat during the Harry Potter-themed reading party. (Julie Slama/ City Journals)
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Iwas born with the fashion sense of a platypus: lots of assorted parts coming together but nothing cohesive, nothing you could call style.
It’s not that I haven’t tried to dress nice. I even did some fashion research and read an article that said I should find clothing that fits my personality to feel confident about my wardrobe. My personality is a cross between a hibernating bear and a librarian, so I guess I should wear furry blankets and mustard-colored cardigans? Done.
The article also said to implement different colors and patterns, and not to be afraid to get out of my comfort zone. But my comfort zone is so comfy. Hence the name.
For a long time, my fashion palette consisted only of black; or gray, if the occasion called for levity. Walking through the grocery store, I was often mistaken for a murder of crows, but that might have been because of all the flapping and squawking.
So, I banned black from my closet, except for 13 black blouses because you never know when you’ll attend a My Chemical Romance concert. Then I decided any new clothes I purchased couldn’t be black. Now my closet is filled with a rainbow of dark navy, charcoal, espresso and eggplant for when I’m feeling whimsical.
Out of Style
The article suggested trying different styles. Trendy boxy tops look adorable on the pages of fashion magazines but turned me into SpongeBob. Maybe I should stop wearing striped socks with squeaky black shoes and white laces.
I just don’t know how to look effortlessly stylish although Vogue breaks it down into 79 manageable steps. I stopped reading after the one step suggested I wear one thing that scares me. Crocs are the most frightening thing I could think of. Nope.
Once, I was working at an event and was given a T-shirt to wear. I threw on a pair of shorts and called it good. My coworker showed up in her T-shirt matched with cute capris, colorful espadrilles and a rakish beret. I felt like Gollum standing next to her.
If I have to attend any social event, I get fashion paralysis, completely incapable of choosing an outfit. If the event is really fancy, I’ll spend at least 47 days riddled
with anxiety about what to wear. My husband says, “Go buy something new,” but that makes it even worse because trying on clothes is a torture device invented during the Spanish Inquisition.
First, the options are overwhelming. Second, what if I choose something too dressy? I don’t want to look like a wedding cake if the event calls for shortbread. Third, I want my clothes to feel comfy, which is the complete opposite of style. No wonder fashion models always look so angry.
The one area in fashion that I do shine is footwear because Chuck Taylors can be worn with anything. Barefoot is also an option I employ from May through October. (By Halloween, the soles of my feet are as tough as a Kevlar and as grungy as a music festival’s porta-potty.)
Oscar Wilde, my style guru, said, “Fashion is a form of ugliness so intolerable that we have to alter it every six months.”
If every fashion trend comes back again, I’ll just stick with what I love: clothes that hide salsa stains and are super soft. Anna Wintour would have some disparaging glances to throw my way but it’s better than my platypus fashion that looks like I just crawled out of a swamp.
