See Inside...
5,000 wishes
Potential school closures
Parents worry about possible changes coming to schools
Sandy City opens new Fire Station 31
By Collette Hayes | c.hayes@mycityjournals.com
Sandy celebrated the grand opening of the new Fire Department Headquarters with a pancake breakfast, followed by a ribbon-cutting, a flag-raising, and the ringing of the historic fire bell.
The Sandy City community celebrated the grand opening of the new Sandy Fire Department Headquarters - Fire Station 31, located at 9295 S. 255 West, on Oct. 11.
Sandy City firefighters served up 3,000 pancakes and 1,000 sizzling sausages to those in attendance. The complimentary breakfast was a thank-you to residents who supported the bond to fund the essential public safety facility. Those attending the half-day celebration included elected officials and staff, Sandy City firefighters and community members.
“This grand opening celebrates both our community’s legacy and our shared commitment to safety and progress,” said Mayor Monica Zoltanski. “We’re proud of this investment in public safety and grateful to our residents for making it possible with their overwhelming support.”
In November 2023, voters approved a $21 million bond to build the new fire station and to replace the deteriorating department headquarters at 9010 S. 150 East, which sustained structural damage during the 2020 earthquake. The bond received 67% voter support to fund the project from planning and design through to construction.
The new 31,000-square-foot facility is designed with Sandy’s future needs in mind. Among its many unique features, the station prioritizes firefighter cancer prevention by incorporating modern technology, such as positive-pressure airflow in living spaces, decontamination showers, an airlock between bays and living spaces. These elements help to reduce firefighter exposure to carcinogens and diesel exhaust. Additionally, the facility is intended to serve as a hub for emergency response and community fire education.
“We definitely outgrew the fire station headquarters on 9000 South decades ago,” Zoltanski said. “We can say goodbye to leaky roofs, decaying infrastructure, a broken foundation, and a complicated floor arrangement. The new Fire Station 31 rises on a plot of ground visible from I-15 at 9295 S. 255 West in the heart of the city’s downtown Cairn’s District. It is conveniently located near America First Field, the Mountain America Convention Center, and many high-occu-
pancy businesses and housing complexes.”
Zoltanski further explained, “In the coming years, there will be significantly more housing in this area, new restaurants, new businesses — all the things that shape a modern urban center. This area is the heart of our city’s future growth, and we need a fire station that can support that growth. We are ready for it. Fire Station 31 is designed not just for today’s needs in Sandy City, but for the future needs of Sandy City.”
According to Zolanski, in 2022, the city was losing firefighters at a record rate. Many of those leaving were seasoned professionals — mid to upper-level career individuals who were very familiar with every neighborhood in Sandy.
One of the primary reasons for the decline in staff was insufficient resources. However, the new fire station has raised safety standards to national levels. As a result, the city can now maintain a long-term force of community firefighters, who are essential to public safety.
“Our firefighters risk their lives daily,” Zoltanski said. “They rush in when others rush out. As Mayor and your city leader, my promise is our firefighters now have all the tools needed to return safely to their families after every shift.”
Sandy City Fire Chief Ryan McConaghie was officially appointed to his position in July 2024. He has a long history with the Sandy City Fire Department, having served in various roles for more than 20 years. As fire chief, he under-
Sandy City Councilmembers, Fire Chief Bruce Cline (retired,) Fire Chief Ryan McConaghie, Mayor Monica Zoltanski, cut the hose on the new fire department headquarters. (Collette Hayes/City Journ als)
Now accepting new heart patients
Across Salt Lake County
Our team is expanding to provide faster, more comprehensive care that’s close to you. We provide:
› Care for your heart: We diagnose and manage heart conditions including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart attacks, and more
› Echocardiograms: A safe, painless test that shows how your heart is working
› Stress testing: See how your heart performs when it’s working hard
› Heart Rhythm Monitoring: Find and treat problems with your heart’s electrical system
Life can change in a heartbeat. We want to help you keep it going.
Locations
Scan the QR code for more information or call (801) 507-3500 to schedule an appointment at one of five locations.
Cardiology Clinic at LDS Hospital 8th Avenue C Street, 6th Floor Salt Lake City, Utah 84103
Cardiology
Make-A-Wish Utah celebrates 40th anniversary by granting its 5,000th wish in Sandy
Ten-year-old Paisley’s fashion show wish marks milestone for Make-A-Wish Utah chapter.
By Collette Hayes c.hayes@mycityjournals.com
Make-A-Wish Utah celebrated 40 years of granting life-changing wishes to children with critical illnesses on the evening of Oct. 2, with a black-tie and heels affair at the Twenty & Creek event venue. Since 1985, the Utah chapter has granted 4,999 wishes. During the evening events, the organization granted wish number 5,000 to 10-year-old Paisley. Her wish was to design and star in her own fashion show.
Meredith and AJ Carson radio personalities from 94.1 KODJ were the evening hosts of the Make-A-Wish Utah celebration.
“I’m very excited to be part of such a monumental event,” Meredith Carson said. “Not only the 40th anniversary, but the 5,000th wish. It’s an extraordinary honor to celebrate 40 years of magic and transformation. Each of you is here because you played a huge part and a vital role in helping to shape this incredible journey. The people in this room are Wish Kids, alumni families, wish-granting volunteers, and generous supporters who have all helped turn wishes into reality for Utah children battling critical illnesses.”
The evening included a journey through time, highlighting different wishes from each decade since the inception of Make-A-Wish Utah in 1985. Families shared personal stories of how the magic of a wish changed their lives.
The first wish to be granted in Utah was for Stephanie, a 4-year-old girl from Florida, who had a wish to see and taste snow. The wish was a significant event because she had never experienced snow before. The wish brought Stephanie and her family from Miami to Park City, Utah, in 1985, where she could sled and build snowmen.
“Even though I was only 2 when Stephanie was granted her wish, I still remember the first time we held and tasted snow,” said Stephanie’s sister, Kiki McArthur. “I remember the moment of that cold, strange sensation on my
mouth and tongue and Stephanie saying to me, ‘Kiki, we’re eating the ground!’”
Inspired by the success of this first wish, Make-A-Wish Utah has now granted 4,999 customized, life-changing wishes. Those in attendance took part in granting wish number 5,000: Paisley’s wish to be in her own fashion show.
In the last 10 years, 3,000 wishes have been granted. Volunteers have contributed over 400,000 hours to make wishes happen. Since 1985, community members have given over $70,000,000 to grant wishes to critically ill children. What does the next 40 years look like? A recent study by the organization showed that approximately 300 kids in Utah are diagnosed with critical illness each year, and 25% of those kids do not receive a wish. One of the goals of Make-A-Wish Utah is to grant wishes to all children with critical illnesses.
According to Paisley’s dad, Paisley was diagnosed with heart disease as a baby. Her heart grew larger than it was supposed to be and then stopped functioning. She was on the heart transplant list and eventually was gifted a heart. Her dad said, “When the idea for a fashion show came up for Paisley’s wish, one of the things I was most excited about for her wish day was just to sit back and watch her enjoy the spotlight, dressing up, and wearing sparkly outfits. She has spent a lot of time in and out of the hospital and doesn’t always get to have fun and play like most kids. The fashion show is her day for dressing up, pretending and having fun.”
One of the goals of Make-A-Wish Utah is to provide hope and joy to families during their experiences with critical illnesses. The organization is considered the leading children’s wish-granting organization in the world – they teach kids that their wishes really can come true.
A special celebrity guest, Tan France, a fashion show expert and TV personality, made a special appearance and helped in granting Paisley’s wish to star in her own fashion show. Jacqueline Towle, a professional model and Miss Teen International 2025, walked in the show with Paisley. International Pageants help to gather other models for the show to welcome Paisley, her cousin, and a friend to the pageant runway.
“The reason I wanted to be a model in a fashion show is because I love the pretty dresses, the shoes, makeup, and all the pretty hair stuff that goes with it,” Paisley said. “I think
being in a fashion show is super-duper cool. The thing I was most excited about was walking the runway with my cousin and friend. Thank you, Make-A-Wish, for making my wish come true!”l
The Sandy Journal is a monthly publication distributed directly to residents via the USPS as well as locations throughout Sandy.
For information about distribution please email hello@thecityjournals.com or call our offices. Rack locations are also available on our website. The views and opinions expressed in display advertisements do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions held by Loyal Perch Media or the City Journals. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the owner. © 2019 Loyal Perch Media, Inc.
PUBLISHER
Bryan Scott | bryan.s@thecityjournals.com
EDITOR
Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com
ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES
Mieka Sawatzki | mieka.s@thecityjournals.com
Lindsay Andreasen | lindsay.a@thecityjournals.com
Jason Corbridge | jason.c@thecityjournals.com
Ryan Casper | ryan.c@thecityjournals.com
Marc Davis | marc.d@thecityjournals.com
CIRCULATION COORDINATOR
Lydia Rice | lydia.r@thecityjournals.com 385-557-1022
Rack locations are also available on our website.
EDITORIAL & AD DESIGN
Stacey LaMont Ty Gorton
SANDY CITY JOURNAL
9500 South 500 West, Suite 205 Sandy, UT 84070
PHONE: 801-254-5974
Our mission is to inform and entertain our community while promoting a strong local economy via relevant content presented across a synergetic network of print and digital media.
PUBLISHER Designed, Published, & Distributed by
SANDY TEAM
In her final walk down the fashion show runway, Paisley shares a moment with her mom. (Collette Hayes/City Journals)
Ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the grand opening of Cedarwood at Sandy’s cottage homes
Cedarwood
By Katherine Weinstein k.weinstein@mycityjournals.com
Senior citizens now have a new unique independent living option in Sandy. Last month, Cedarwood at Sandy, which offers both independent and assisted living facilities, celebrated the opening of its senior cottage home neighborhood. Offering residents both independence and community, the cottage neighborhood is the first of its kind in Utah.
“What a beautiful day!” Wade Vest, director of operations at Kisco Senior Living, declared at the Oct. 2 ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the completion of the 29 cottage units. Cedarwood at Sandy has been owned and operated by Kisco for nearly 10 years.
Before an assembled audience of Cedarwood at Sandy residents, staff and members of the community, Vest thanked Sandy City for their support of the project. “We really appreciate the neighbors for their patience,” he added, alluding to the months of construction.
In addition to thanking Cedarwood at Sandy’s staff members and residents, Vest emphasized the impetus behind the construction of the independent living cottages. The idea is to give residents, “the choice to do what you want to do,” he said.
Darlene Duffin, who was the second person to move into one of the cottages, explained why she prefers living in a cottage as opposed to an apartment. “I had a big home in Sandy,” she said. “In the cottage, I don’t feel closed in. It’s bright, light and beautiful. It’s just a wonderful feeling. I didn’t have to compromise leaving my beautiful home.”
“Kisco has quite a few cottage communities like this across the country,” Tony Dressen said. Dressen, the executive director of Cedarwood at Sandy, said that there are somewhat similar living options for seniors in Alpine and St. George, but none on this scale.
The cottages, which offer single-story living, range in size from a little over 1,500 to 1,700 square feet and most include a two-car garage. “They are already a big hit,” he added. “They include all the amenities.”
Cottage residents may cook in their own kitchens but have the option to enjoy two to three meals a day at one of three onsite restaurants. Biweekly housekeeping is available. “There are also lots of activities,” Dressen said. “It’s lots of fun, really.”
“You could be busy all day,” Susan Savage agreed. Savage was the first person to put
down a deposit on one of the cottages, even before they were constructed. She was drawn to the sunny location and the friendliness of the Cedarwood at Sandy staff. “I love the independence of the cottage, it feels like a home,” she said. “It has everything you need, just smaller.”
Among the many activities to choose from, Savage mentioned the exercise and meditation programs and Friday night movies. “They have everything. People get to do whatever,” she said.
Duffin also has her favorite activities. “I love the scenic drives,” she said. “We took a bus trip to Albion Basin and went up the canyon to see all the fall colors.” She also mentioned taking the bus to the water aerobics classes offered at Dimple Dell Recreation Center. “We also have a choir which just met for the first time,” Duffin said. “We’ll be singing at Christmas.”
Both Savage and Duffin expressed that the best part of living at Cedarwood at Sandy was the community and staff members. “They have the best people, they are so accommodating and kind,” Savage said. “It’s beautiful.”
“I love it here,” Duffin said. “Everyone is helpful and friendly. We have a lot of fun.”
For more information about the cottages and other living options at Cedarwood at Sandy, visit www.kiscoseniorliving.com/senior-living/ut/sandy/cedarwood-at-sandy. l
Joined by staff members and residents, Executive Director Tony Dressen prepared to cut the ribbon at the grand opening of the new cottage home neighborhood at Cedarwood at Sandy. (Photo by Lilian Henrie, courtesy of Kisco Senior Living)
STEMfest sparks curiosity for all ages
Interactive exhibits, student leaders and curious minds turned out for the 11th annual event.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Amid thousands of students during the day and hundreds of families at night, an electric energy pulsed through the crowd at Utah STEMfest — and no lab coat was required.
Kids felt literal static electricity as they placed their hands on a plasma ball at the Clark Planetarium booth while others explored how electric currents work at a Rocky Mountain Power display. To cool off, they plunged their hands into insta-snow demonstrated by SheTech student leaders or touched sea stars, sea turtle shells and other marine life specimens at the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium table.
Three-year-old Poppy, brought along her 1-year-old sister, Delilah, and her dad, Jed Hall, eager to dive into the hands-on experiences available at the Mountain America Expo Center in Sandy.
“We like to do experiments at home, so I’m trying to foster a love of STEM in my little girl,” Hall said. “I hope she can
have a better understanding of the world. I want her to develop a love of learning while she’s young so she will keep it up when she’s older.”
It wasn’t just kids who were learning — volunteer Dannette Rose said she was helping because she wanted to expand her own STEM knowledge.
“I like to learn all kinds of stuff when I help; it’s a good opportunity to learn and explore,” she said.
Rose was assisting Denise Taylor, a Utah 4-H STEM and strategic partner with Utah State University. Together, they guided attendees through the Utah 4-H night sky star dome, encouraging them to look to the heavens.
“It’s important kids get exposed to lots of different things because STEM is in everything we do,” Taylor said, listing a vast array of 4-H clubs which all include STEM. “We just need to point it out to students. They can garden, and there’s science behind the soil and the growing process. They do robotics and we can talk about coding. They read Harry Potter and explore potions and wands and learn about chemical reactions and magnetic fields. When we go into elementary schools, sometimes kids say, ‘I don’t do STEM,’ but they don’t realize our world is engrossed in it, and it will be a big
part of their future and is what they can do.”
Tami Goetz, director of the Utah STEM Action Center — the organization behind the 11th annual event, agrees.
“I have seen students trying to figure
how to balance their love of STEM with other interests and passions,” she said. “My advice to them has always been that they are lucky because STEM overlaps with so many other education and career paths.l
People of all ages engaged in activities during the 11th annual STEMFest. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Canyons District libraries turn the page with $1.2 million in new collections
Canyons superintendent and District library media specialist receive awards for leadership in supporting student literacy.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
In recent years, the Canyons School District has launched a major effort to modernize its 43 school libraries, investing $1.2 million into refreshing aging collections to ensure they’re supporting literacy, inquiry and student engagement.
The Districtwide push aims to reflect the diversity of today’s students, including the 4,000 multilingual learners enrolled in Canyons schools. Many collections feature books in multiple languages, aligning with the district’s dual-language immersion programs. When the new Glacier Hills Elementary and Peruvian Park Elementary opened, they received brand-new collections. The rebuilt Union Middle School saw a major library investment when it reopened.
A 2022 review found Canyons’ elementary library collections were, on average, 17
years old, prompting the upgrade.
These improvements represent more than just new books. They reflect a growing recognition that libraries are dynamic, student-centered spaces that promote equity, elevate diverse voices and spark curiosity, said Superintendent Rick Robins.
Robins, who championed the transformation, recently was named Administrator of the Year by the Utah School Librarian Association.
Robins said he was honored by the recognition, but emphasized the credit belongs to the District’s educators and librarians.
“It’s more than a reflection on my leadership,” he said. “It’s a reflection on all the great teachers and teacher librarians that we have in Canyons School District. They’re dedicated to literacy and access for our students. They’ve done great work with updating our libraries and helping students find books that they see themselves in, that they can relate to, at the same time making sure that students have safe books that are age appropriate.”
His love of reading stemmed from the arrival of a bookmobile in his rural hometown.
“When the bookmobiles came, I was always excited to go see the newest books,”
he said. “Now, these students can walk into the library and experience the tactile feel of a new book to check out. That’s pretty special.”
Canyons School District Library Media Specialist Gretchen Zaitzeff said the District now offers the strongest school library collection in the state.
“Rick is an excellent example of an administrator who understands the value of libraries in supporting literacy,” she said.
Zaitzeff was also recently honored with the Literacy Champion Librarian award at the Love of Reading conference. She oversees the district’s 368,525 physical books and a digital collection of nearly 71,000 titles.
“It’s a recognition for our ongoing efforts to support our students,” she said, pointing to programs such as Book Blitz, where middle school students read selected titles and compete in trivia-style challenges. The elementary version, Book Blitz Jr., is now in 23 of 28 schools.
“Reading is the most important academic skill that a student can acquire, and any effort that we can make to help support the student in learning to read and then practicing reading and learning to love reading is the most important work we could be doing,” she said.
Zaitzeff believes libraries are essential places for students to practice reading outside the classroom.
“You have to practice reading, so that’s what a library is for. It’s like a football field or basketball court. It’s where you practice reading, with a coach — the librarian — and all the equipment —books — you could need,” she said. “If you like earthworms, I got books on earthworms. If you like rockets, I got books on rockets. Magic? I got books on magic. Taekwondo? Got that too. In the best libraries, we have them in multiple languages and formats to help all students become better readers.”
Beyond books, Canyons’ libraries support the curriculum, provide makerspaces, host author visits and teach research and media literacy skills.
“I can’t think of a skill that’s more needed than to be able to tell the difference between facts and opinions and accurate information and misinformation,” she said.
Zaitzeff’s love of reading stems from childhood.
“I found libraries to be a welcoming environment that was a really great place to learn and grow, and there was just an excitement about books,” she said.
Now, she and the rest of Canyons’ dedicated team of K-12 share the same excitement with 31,000 students.
“Our K-12 librarians, they’re super dedicated to students,” Zaitzeff said. “They are supportive of teachers and classroom instruction. They work hard to make libraries welcoming and safe spaces for students.” l
Canyons School District Superintendent Rick Robins, seen here speaking to the crowd at Union Middle School’s 2023 ribbon cutting, recently was named Administrator of the Year by the Utah School Librarian Association. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Park Lane community unites one step at a time
With support from the Jordan High, local police and neighbors, Park Lane’s fun run shows unity can start with just 1 mile.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Every September, Park Lane Elementary kicks off the school year with a beloved tradition: the annual fun run.
This isn’t just a jog around the block — it’s a celebration of unity, school spirit and deep-rooted community pride. From the moment the kids lace up their sneakers to the final stretch of the run, it’s clear this event is about more than fitness or even its apparent purpose of a fundraiser.
“It’s about connection; it builds community,” Principal Justin Jeffery said. “It unifies our community and it builds culture in the school, and that’s one of the things where Park Lane really shines.”
The day begins with excitement as students gather, many wearing matching fun run T-shirts designed by the PTA. These shirts are more than just apparel — they’re a symbol of inclusion.
“All the kids get a T-shirt,” Jeffery said. “This year is a retro flashback Panther design. The kids look forward to getting them, and this year, the PTA really came through. They got them the night before and handed them out on the fun run day.”
After warmups, which recently have been led by Jordan High School’s cross-country team, the entire student body readies at the starting point. With support from Sandy City Police Department, the streets are safely blocked off and the 1-mile run begins.
“We go through the neighborhoods, and we do it with the
help of the police and the leadership from Jordan High,” said a school leader.
The route winds through familiar streets, past houses where the kids live, past neighbors they know.
“When we do the fun run, we’re not running in someone else’s community. We’re running in their own backyard,” he said. “People they know are cheering them on — folks they see from church, Junior Jazz or the grocery store.”
It’s not just students and faculty and staff participating. The event brings out parents, grandparents, younger siblings in strollers and even community members without current ties to the school.
“I remember seeing a family cheering us on. They haven’t had kids at our school for years,” Jeffery said. “Their kids are grown, but they’re still out there waving. It’s because this is their community.”
Inclusivity is a key value. The fun run welcomes everyone — whether walking, running, rolling — and even cheering from the sidelines.
“We invite everybody to participate — whether it’s walk, run or roll. We have people in wheelchairs or those who need special accommodations participate. Everyone is invited and included,” he said.
This year’s theme, inspired by Dr. Seuss’ “Oh, the Places You’ll Go,” included a special appearance by the Chick-fil-A hot air balloon a few days later.
“They pulled it up and let people look inside at the flame,” said an organizer. “It was set up as a reward when we hit our fundraising goal — $22,000. We made more than $25,000.”
That fundraising success supports students, providing money for every child to use at the book fair, which in turn, promotes literacy as well as other activities.
From the fun run to Spirit Fridays — where students wear their shirts weekly — the event sets the tone for a year of student engagement.
The fun run is just one piece of Park Lane’s larger community puzzle. The annual Night of the Arts, the end-of-year dance party, and STEM night all strengthen the bond between the school and its surrounding neighborhood.
“Most of our community’s kids attend Park Lane because they love the school and they have pride in it,” Jeffery said. “It’s not just a school they attend — it’s a place they belong; it’s their school.”l
Park Lane students run together during the annual fun run and unite throughout the year on Spirit Fridays. (Jeannie Hill/Park Lane Elementary)
Parents at multiple elementaries voice concerns about proposed school closures
The Canyons Board of Education will hold public hearings ahead of a vote to decide the possible closure of elementary schools.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
As Canyons Board of Education continues its boundary and consolidation study, families from Bella Vista, Park Lane and Granite are voicing concerns. They’re raising points over the timing, safety and equity of every student.
District leaders say changes are needed to address declining enrollment and optimize resources.
After slated regular board meetings and three public hearings were held in October, a new proposal could be announced at a November board meeting.
A third reading and vote are expected in December. According to state law, school closure decisions must be finalized by Dec. 31 if they are to take effect the following school year.
Canyons School District Superintendent Rick Robins said the board of education is following the state law.
“The board hasn’t made any decisions,” he said. “The proposal is an option the board is looking at, a starting point, but with that, they aren’t making a definitive declaration that any school is closing or not. The board will decide by the end of December about the closure possibility and if they feel like there should have been more time, they can decide to continue to study.”
Meanwhile, parents at each of the three schools were meeting, uniting in their efforts to save their schools including petitions, talking points, counter proposals and newspaper ads.
Timelines and transparency
From the outset, many families felt the process has moved too quickly and without sufficient community input.
On Sept. 2, when Canyons Board of Education announced its proposals — merging Bella Vista Elementary with Ridgecrest Elementary in Cottonwood Heights and combining Park Lane Elementary and Granite Elementary in Sandy — Park Lane School Community Council chair Chris Sharp was frustrated.
“The most common concern throughout the Park Lane Elementary community has been the lack of transparency and timeline,” he said, noting when the study was announced, he didn’t believe his children’s school was at risk, yet through the process,
there was a growing concern as it became evident it was.
Across communities, parents believe the District should have begun engagement earlier and presenting more than one proposal for each of the two cities.
“One community meeting is where we get all the transparency. It comes back to doing longer term planning and more engagement to begin with. Now, they want to be done before the end of the calendar year to show they’re being effective and resourceful with taxpayer dollars in a timely manner. Our feedback on that is, we are the taxpayers and we’d rather see a careful decision made,” Sharp said.
Bella Vista PTA chair Juliana Jackson said the proposal moves not only all of Bella Vista students out of the nationally recognized Blue Ribbon School, but also 100 Ridgecrest students to another elementary.
“We’d rather see a careful decision made over a few years than a rushed one that displaces 400 kids,” she said. “It’d be easier to re-boundary 50 or 100 kids into our building, so not all the schools are at capacity, especially since our enrollment is supposed to increase with the Hillside Plaza development.”
Parents say there needs to be time to adapt; teachers need to know where they’ll be assigned; students need emotional readiness; and parents need to plan transportation and have time to permit into schools if they opt out on their new boundary schools.
“I’d like more transparency in this process,” said Granite parent Julia Sorenson, who is the SCC chair.
Safe walking routes
At the heart of many objections is a shift from walkable campuses to routes where children will have to cross heavy traffic.
Park Lane currently functions as a walkable school for neighborhood students.
“We don’t have any buses for the general ed students,” Sharp said. “My middle schooler bikes to the elementary school to shepherd my younger kids home. He went there and loves that school. He wants his younger siblings to share that love.”
But with the proposal being unclear about which elementary would close — Granite or Park Lane — it would send either Granite or Park Lane students crossing Highland Drive, Wasatch Boulevard and other major roads, he said.
“We’re concerned about safety; we don’t want to put one community from one side of Little Cottonwood Canyon and combine them with the other side, just to make numbers work,” he said.
Sharp also said if Park Lane were to close, there are parents concerned their children would be crossing Highland Drive to go
to Willow Canyon Elementary, based on the new proposal.
“I’m not sure they thought about that,” he said.
Jackson raises similar concerns.
If Bella Vista closes, children would cross Fort Union and Highland Drive — “Ten lanes of busy traffic” — and pass by homes with known registered sex offenders, she said.
“We have serious safety concerns of them trying to implement this by next school year; it’s rushed and sloppy and dangerous for our kids. It’s not safe,” Jackson said.
She also pointed out flawed bus planning: “The proposal would have one bus. I don’t know how you’re going to get 200 kids on one regular bus.”
Sorenson also said if Granite students would go to Park Lane: “they said, it will be four busses and that’s concerning. It would be 10 busses. We have five common core (general education) busses and five extended core (special education) busses that currently goes to Granite every day.”
Equity for all students
Equity also is a deeply felt issue. In all three schools, the special education programs are integrated into the general studentbody.
At Park Lane, Sharp hears his “kids say, ‘So-and-so from ECC (extended core curriculum) joined us for science.’ These students are part of our studentbody. It’s very integrated.”
Under the draft proposal, these programs are being relocated, fracturing bonds which have been carefully built, he said.
“We see the ECC as being very strong at our school. Our faculty is helping students to pass RISE (year-end standardized) tests and to get to a point where the support level changes. They still might need Resource, but it’s almost like they’re graduating, and they feel this great accomplishment. The board said with the study, they’re trying to keep schools together. Our boundary students will stay together, but not with the EEC program. That is concerning because that’s not keep-
ing us together; we want to stay together,” Sharp said.
Jackson questions if the schools serving special education populations are being targeted disproportionately. With special education enrollment numbers require dedicated space and staffing, as well as pre-kindergarten classes, their “full capacity” number may be lower than what the building indicates.
Jacob Jensen’s two youngest children — one who is in a special education program — attend Granite.
“We literally moved into the area so that the kids could go to Granite,” he said. “I’m impressed with the quality of Granite and with the programs they have. Granite has created a place for these special needs kids that’s so inviting and welcoming. My sister has Down syndrome, and the inclusions Granite is doing vastly improved from 20, 30 years ago when she was in school. It would be devastating if they closed Granite.”
Next Steps
Robins said the board will continue to take feedback before making final decisions.
“We have had some public comment on our special ed units and what’s best for them,” he said. “These schools are amazing. They’ve been very inclusive and built a strong culture of support for all students. So, it makes it that much harder to consider this. I’m glad our schools are as good as they are because people are passionate, and they care. It’s great that no one wants any of their schools to close — that’s a good thing.”
Robins said the board is considering busing and safety as well as keeping students together in their feeder systems.
“Transportation and safe walking routes have been a big part of this and the place we’re operating from is trying to keep kids together. Is that possible in every aspect? Maybe not, but that’s why we’re in this period right now of public input,” he said. “We’re learning from parents and constituents, and it’s helpful for the board to gather input and consider lots of different perspectives.” l
A Canyons School District image shows actual school boundaries and a proposed change with the closure of Bella Vista Elementary. (Courtesy of Canyons School District)
Ho Ho or Humdrum? Navigating Mental Health During the Holidays
Our favorite big box stores and online ads have been reminding us for weeks that the holidays are just around the corner. Happy time, right? Surprisingly the holidays can be a time of increased stress and can trigger mental health challenges for many. A 2023 survey by the American Psychological Association found that 89% of U.S. adults feel stressed during the holidays, with more than one-third indicating they experience higher stress levels during the holidays compared with other seasons. Added holiday stress can cause physical ailments, anxiety, depression, and in some cases substance misuse.
So what’s the holiday stress culprit? Well actually there are several:
Money. The holidays create budget pressures – gifts, travel, events.
Social. Family gatherings can produce awkward moments, especially when there are unresolved conflicts or pressure to follow tradition.
Busyness. Schedules can become overloaded with shopping, cooking special meals and attending holiday festivities. Sometimes with all the extra activity and disrupted routines, the holidays can be exhausting.
Loneliness. The holidays can create a heightened sense of loneliness for those who are separated from loved one or grieving a loss.
According to Dr. Jared Lambert, a CommonSpirit family medicine physician in West Jordan, there are several things we can do to manage holiday stress and even find joy in a season that is meant to be joyful.
First – Set realistic expectations. You may not cook the perfect turkey. The gift that you spent hours searching for may not elicit the magical reaction from the recipient. You may not be able to attend all the holiday events you’re invited to. That’s OK.
Second – Make time for yourself. Carve out a few moments each day during the holidays to read, get outside, meditate, and remember that the basics of self-care
– sleep, exercise, and healthy eating – still matter at this time of year.
Third – Set a budget. Having a financial plan going into the holidays helps with avoiding excessive spending. There’s nothing quite so deflating as January credit card bills that exceed what we can afford.
Fourth – Find joy in small things. Make time to talk to a friend or family member who makes you feel good. Savor that favorite side dish at Thanksgiving Dinner, listen to a favorite holiday song – and look for reasons to be grateful each day.
Fifth – Take a time out from Social Media: By limiting time on social media feeds you can reduce feelings of inadequacy by avoiding depictions of others’ perfectly curated holidays.
“The holidays can be a beautiful time, but they can also bring to the surface a lot of underlying stressors,” Dr. Lambert says. “It’s crucial to be honest with yourself about how you’re truly feeling and to allow for imperfections. Prioritize your well-being over societal pressures to create a ‘perfect’ holiday.”
If you find yourself severely struggling, reach out for help. Talk to a trusted friend, call a helpline, or visit a mental health professional.
For more information or to find a provider visit mountain.commonspirit.org
Learn more about the services, care providers and missiondriven work of the Holy Cross hospitals and CommonSpirit Health at www.holycrossutah.org.
At CommonSpirit Health, we make the healing presence of God known in our world by improving the health of the people we serve, especially those who are vulnerable, while we advance social justice for all.
(TTY: 711).
When
minutes count, count on our emergency care. Get to know us before you need us.
When you need emergency care fast, the closest emergency room is a smart thing to know. You never know the level of care you’ll need when an emergency happens and choosing the right ER can make all the difference. And a hospital ER comes with the confidence of additional services right on-site.
CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – Salt Lake has been awarded Chest Pain Center Accreditation from the American College of Cardiology (ACC). Facilities that achieve accreditation meet or exceed an array of stringent criteria for evaluating, diagnosing and treating patients who may be experiencing a heart attack.
Find emergency care close to you at mountain.commonspirit.org.
Shana for Sandy!
New state board member wants to remain ‘in the trenches’
Erin Longacre fills the state school board seat vacated by Molly Hart, who became state superintendent.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
From rooting on middle school mountain bikers to making statewide decisions, she’s “all in” when it comes to students.
As one of four mountain biking coaches for Draper Park Middle School, Erin Longacre spends hours surrounded by energy, passion and dirt trails, cheering middle schoolers as they take on nerve-wracking racecourses.
“It is so much fun,” she said. “These kids, I don’t know how they line up and not just crumble at the starting line, because it is high energy, high intensity and man, the nerves would get me. But they’re strong under pressure. I’m proud of them.”
Longacre’s coaching role, she laughs as she describes it: “I’m mostly a cheerleader. I love cheering on the kids, but I do need to know a little bit. As long as you can ride a bike, you can pretty much coach at the middle school level.”
That spirit of engagement is what defines her approach to everything she does — and Longacre admits, she does a lot.
Longacre is a substitute teacher of seven years; a crossing guard for Draper City; in charge of the middle school’s PTSA and the woman behind Teacher Appreciation Week. As a mother of three, with kids at Corner Canyon High, Draper Park Middle and Draper Elementary, her schedule is packed.
“My plate is full, but it’s a really good plate,” she said. “I love to serve. It gives you purpose.”
Recently Longacre added another title: Utah State Board of Education member.
“I’ve had a passion for education for some time now,” she said. “When this opened up, I was prayerful about it and I thought, ‘OK, I’ll put my name in and we’ll see what happens.’ The governor was gracious enough to pick me. I’m excited. It’s new territory. It’s a huge responsibility, but I’m up for the task.”
Longacre is representing District 7 — Sandy, Draper, Cottonwood Heights and Alta — previously represented by Molly Hart, who was appointed in the spring as state superintendent of public instruction.
As per Utah Code, Longacre will serve on the Board the remainder of her predecessor’s term, through the next general election in 2026. This appointment comes three years after Longacre’s run for Canyons Board of Education ended in a loss.
“I remember when I lost, I was upset. I love education, and I want to improve it. But I feel when one door closes, another one opens.
Now, three years later, this door opens, and I wouldn’t have been able to take it had I won the local school board. So, this is the door I’m walking through right now,” she said.
Longacre acknowledges the legacy of her predecessor with deep respect.
“Molly is well respected. She’s done so much in education. One of the first things I said to Molly was, ‘I’ve got big shoes to fill.’ And she said, ‘You be you. You are going to do great.’ I love that about Molly and people on the board have great respect for one another,” she said.
Far from a distant policymaker, Longacre plans to stay rooted in classrooms and community conversations.
“Oftentimes the people who make critical decisions in education, they’re not in the classrooms. I plan on being that state board member you will see in faculty meetings, in the hallways, volunteering in the classroom — so I can
see firsthand what we need to change,” she said.
Longacre knows the job will require navigating the legislative process.
“I’m only a month into this position; I’m still learning the ropes. As a parent, I thought I could go in and start making changes right away, but I’m realizing now there’s a process. A lot of what we do comes from legislation. So parents, teachers and board members need to have relationships with legislators. We can go to them and say, ‘Here’s our issues. What bill can we pass to help this?’” she said.
One thing, Longacre knows is schools need more support in classrooms.
“Our teachers have a hard job. Their plates are overflowing. I hear them saying, ‘We need help in the classroom,’ and I agree,” she said. “I plan to continue doing what I’m doing because I love what I’m doing,” she said. “I think it’s important to see what’s going on at the ground level to address it at the state level.”l
Erin Longacre recently was sworn in as a Utah State Board of Education member, taking the seat vacated by Molly Hart after she was named state superintendent. (Photo courtesy of Erin Longacre)
‘Hunt. Fish. Feed.’ brings Utah’s military families and community together
The meal showed gratitude for Utah’s airmen.
By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Behind every military mission, family members and communities stand to support their loved ones in the U.S. armed forces. In September, Comcast partnered with Hill Air Force Base, The Boyer Group and Sportsman Channel for the “Hunt. Fish. Feed.” event that honored airmen and their families.
The “Hunt. Fish. Feed.” outreach program was created by Sportsman Channel 17 years ago to address hunger issues across the nation. Using donated game meat and fish, the events have served more than 42,000 meals to communities all over the country, led by noted game chef Paul Comes.
During the event at Hill Air Force Base, hundreds of airmen and their families were served a meal, including Master Sergeant Dale Clark.
“All the events and all these organizations help us in the military and make us feel like we’re supported,” Clark said. “I have airmen who are struggling financially or, whatever the case may be, but these helping agencies really contribute a lot to health and morale.”
The event brought families together to enjoy a meal, connect with friends and take a break from the hectic pace of daily life.
Jeffrey Brown, director of Sportsman Channel’s distribution and affiliate marketing, said they are taking the “Hunt. Fish. Feed.” program to every Comcast region throughout the country, including one other military base.
“We just came off the anniversary of 9/11 and we appreciate the service that they’re doing. That goes without saying,” Brown said. “But to be out here and provide them a nice meal, it means so much to us. These are our brave warriors who are out there defending the red, white and blue every day.”
Supporting military families is central to Comcast’s mission. With thousands of employees who are actively serving or veterans, including founder and WWII Navy veteran Ralph Roberts, the company is committed to creating opportunities and providing support for those in uniform.
Comcast Mountain West Region’s Technical Operations Senior Manager Shawn Kessler joined the Marines in 1996 and was deployed to Iraq in 2003. He said events like “Hunt. Fish. Feed.” support military personnel and the challenges they face every day.
“It’s so cool being part of Comcast,” Kessler said. “What we do with veterans,
er it’s from a job standpoint or from a mental standpoint, that’s how Comcast leans in to support these folks.”
According to the Department of Workforce Services, Utah is home to more than 116,000 veterans, with the majority being 65 and older. A 2023 Blue Star Families report showed that more than 25% of active-duty military personnel experience food insecurity and homelessness remains a serious issue.
“We understand how important it is for the military community to be connected, be part of a community and also have a continued sense of service,” said Deneiva Knight, external affairs director, Comcast Mountain West Region. “Comcast is committed to supporting veterans and the military community through employment, economic mobility, and by ensuring the military community has access to connectivity and the digital skills to thrive in today’s world.
“We also invest in partners that support the military community throughout its entire lifecycle, from entry throughout the journey of service and beyond, including the families.”
like the internal networks and how many veterans we hire, is impressive. People are coming home and having to find careers and transition. Comcast does such an amazing job supporting these folks, wheth-
For more information about “Hunt. Fish. Feed.” visit TheSportsmanChannel. com. To learn about Comcast’s military customer programs, visit Corporate.Comcast.com. l
Daniel Arevalo, senior airman for the United States Air Force, 88th Maintenance Group, takes part in the “Hunt. Fish. Feed.” event at Hill Air Force Base, providing meals to servicemen and their families. (Photo provided by Comcast)
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW
Union Middle Schoolers bring magic and meaning to the stage in ‘Matilda Jr.’ production
A double-cast production of “Matilda Jr.” takes center stage this November, blending Dahl’s classic storytelling with a focus on literacy, empowerment and student creativity.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Directed by Brooke Grant, David Christensen and Roxanne Paulsen, the show
lenge students’ creatively, Grant said. “There are things Matilda does in the
cake fundraiser — a nod to the infamous Bruce Bogtrotter scene — will be held to help support the production.
The show selection itself was inspired by a spontaneous moment. Last year, two seventh-grade boys performed “Revolting Children” for a class project, unknowingly sparking the decision to stage “Matilda Jr.” Fittingly, both were cast as Miss Trunchbull this year.
“It was one of those unspoken moments where we just knew — that’s the show,” Grant said.
The musical isn’t the only book-based production on the calendar. The school’s advanced theatre students will present “The Stinky Cheese Man” on Jan. 28-29, 2026, a fractured fairy tale production also rooted in literature.
“It’s another way we’re connecting performance with reading and storytelling and teaching kids ‘books are cool,’” she said.
Throughout the show, the underlying theme remains clear: kids can be powerful, creative and may have something important to teach the adults around them.
“‘When I Grow Up’ is such a powerful number about children’s hopes and dreams when they grow up,” Grant said. “When Miss Honey sings it — as an adult — it’s a reminder that we’re all still growing, and that childhood dreams don’t have to fade. It’s a tender reminder we can learn from kids. There’s something beautiful in that.” l
Jada Kara as Lavender Brown (left) and Lillian Broadbent as Matilda rehearse a scene in Union Middle School’s production of “Matilda Jr.,” which opens in November. (Photo courtesy of Janel Williams)
Photo by Julie Slama
‘If Not Me, Then Who…’ — a call to serve, a path to heal
Travis Manion Foundation calls for volunteers, to serve, honor and remember veterans.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
The Salt Lake City chapter of the Travis Manion Foundation is honoring Veterans Day with two community events designed to celebrate service and build connection: a veterans’ billiards tournament in Ogden and a community summit on Nov. 15 in Sandy.
The pool tournament, which attracted more than 300 people last year, will include youth programming and a local service project, said chapter leader Stephany Pina. Last year, youth wrote more than 200 notes to veterans which were distributed locally.
Just days later, the community summit will bring together veterans, families of the fallen, youth and community members to make blankets for veterans. It will be held at 9 a.m., Nov. 15 at the Gail Miller Conference Center on SLCC’s Miller Campus, 9750 S. 300 West. Register for the free event at donate.travismanion.org/event/fy26-community-summit-salt-lake-city/e715867.
“Ninety percent of the people who come to the summit have never really engaged too much with TMF,” she said. “We talk about our projects, how we serve the community and how there’s a place for every single person who shows up.”
Founded to honor 1st Lt. Travis Manion, who was killed in Iraq in 2007, TMF challenges individuals to lead with character and serve others. The organization supports veterans, families of the fallen and youth through events and programs rooted in leadership, resilience and remembrance.
“We honor all military members — those who died in the line of duty, and those who passed away after service — because their service throughout their life is important,” Pina said.
While TMF is a national nonprofit with more than 780,000 veterans and survivors, 750,000 youth participants and 300,000 Spartan or consistent volunteers, chapters tailor their efforts for local needs. In Salt Lake, a five-member board organizes events with the help of 20 consistent volunteers, though some events draw nearly 100 community members.
Recently, the chapter held their fourth annual 9/11 Heroes 5K Run in South Jordan, with 76 runners and walkers participating. Salt Lake’s chapter of Team Red, White & Blue, a national nonprofit connecting veterans through
physical and social activities in the community, served as the color guard.
“We remember not just military members, but also first responders and victims of 9/11,” she said.
This year, they also held a 1-mile walk/run in honor of a local service member Sean Joseph Pulley, who died while stationed at Great Lakes Naval Station — an event which drew additional community support.
The top male 5K race winner was Jordan Rolf at 19:47 and the top female was Abigail Olsen with 25:11. Top 5K ruck male was Edwin Ramirez in 26:35, followed by top female runner Angela Barnett in 30:46.
That 5K supports initiatives such as providing backpacks and supplies to students at Horizonte School. TMF also provides “Character Does Matter” program at the school, as well as Apogee School in South Jordan. Veterans and families of the fallen volunteer to teach character and leadership skills.
“We tell kids it can be as small as opening a door or being kind,” she said.
The Foundation’s programming centers around Travis Manion’s words: “If not me, then who…”. For Pina, who lost her husband while he was serving in 2015, that message turned grief into purpose.
“Travis Manion Foundation empowers you to do something with all that love you have for someone you lost. There’s nothing more healing than service,” she said.
That healing comes from connection, Pina said.
“When they lose someone to service, they also lose a community. Travis Manion Foundation helps rebuild that. You feel connected again,” she said.
Pina joined one of the Foundation’s expeditions for families of the fallen traveling to Alaska to help build cabins for children who have lost a military parent.
“I was able to help others without worrying, ‘Can I afford this?’” she said.
The chapter also supports Wreaths Across America. On Dec. 15 in Riverton, volunteers will place more than 500 wreaths on veterans’ graves; they mark graves beforehand and clean up afterward.
“We’d love more volunteers to help us with this service to honor them and we’d love to help lay wreaths at other cemeteries too,” she said.
On Memorial Day weekend, the chapter also visits Camp Williams’ cemetery, saying the names of the fallen and reflecting on their service.
To volunteer, join or learn more, email: saltlakecity@ travismanion.com.l
Some racers pose before the start of the 9/11 Heroes 5K Run in South Jordan. (Photo courtesy of the Salt Lake City chapter of the Travis Manion Foundation)
Granite Elementary makes the right moves with new chess club
castling, checkmate defenses, piece movement — followed by matches and a chess puzzle challenge. Players earn points using a system designed to reward persistence as much as skill.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Before the first bell rings each Tuesday morning, about 20 students gather, not for extra credit or tutoring, but to challenge themselves — and each other — on the chessboard.
In its first year, Granite Elementary’s chess club has quickly become more than just a game. It’s a place where thinking is sharpened, friendships are built and a connection for the school community deepens each week.
“I was working with the chess club at Brookwood Elementary School, where my oldest son went to school,” said parent volunteer Jacob Jensen, who now leads Granite’s club. “It was actually Lucas, my fourth grader with autism, who said, ‘I want you to come teach chess at my school.’”
His simple request sparked something special at Granite. Lucas is part of the school’s special needs inclusion program — one of the key reasons his family chose Granite for their daughter, Sophia, as well.
“We gave her the choice: go to Brookwood, one street away, or ride the bus with Lucas. She chose Granite,” he said.
Jensen, a lifelong chess player who once considered becoming a chess master before law school, worked with administration to launch the club, submitting a $500 proposal to purchase boards and materials. The result: a weekly club where students from all backgrounds and abilities come together to learn and grow.
Each meeting includes a short lesson on strategy or rules —
“If you win a game, you get three points. A draw gets you two, and even a loss earns one. Someone who loses four games could still rank higher than someone who wins once but doesn’t come back,” he said. “One of the things about chess is that you’re going to lose games. But every game is a chance to learn — whether you win or lose, you’re progressing.”
It’s not just about the competition, either. Each match starts and ends with a handshake.
“Even if there are tears, you shake hands and say, ‘good game.’ Then we go back to the drawing board to see what we can learn from this,” Jensen said.
For many families, Granite’s inclusive and welcoming environment is the reason they love their school.
“That’s probably my favorite thing about Granite — the way they include the kids. They’re not just helping Lucas, they’re his buddies,” he said.
Lucas helps set up boards and plays occasionally, even if his moves aren’t always legal.
“The other kids will say, ‘Hey Lucas, come play me.’ They help him correct his moves. They understand the game well enough to teach him — and they’re wanting to include him,” Jensen said.
That sense of belonging extends to Sophia, now a first grader, who took ninth place in last year’s kindergarten state chess tournament.
“She and Lucas see everyone as friends — and they are,” Jensen said.
He hopes to host their own school tournament in March to build excitement before the state tournament.
Jensen’s long-term vision includes teaching notation and
introducing chess clocks.
“It’s not required at the elementary level, but I want them to learn. I want them to be able to learn the proper notation, know the appropriate moves and use the clock to be able to compete locally, statewide or nationally if they want,” he said.
But even more than tournaments, Jensen sees chess as a way to build skills beyond the board including resilience, memory, concentration, problem-solving, creativity, patience and discipline.
“You can be losing all your pieces and have one piece left besides the king, and you can still checkmate your opponent,” Jensen said. “They look at chess and say it’s hard, but life is hard. Even if you make a mistake, you keep going. I try to teach them to think ahead, learn from mistakes and keep moving forward.” l
Parent volunteer Jacob Jensen teaches students a lesson on the chess board before the Granite chess club plays. (Leslie Robinett/ Granite Elementary)
FIRST NEIGHBORHOOD OF ITS KIND IN SANDY
Cedarwood at Sandy is proud to announce the official opening of our Independent Living Cottages. These are Sandy’s first 55+ Independent Living cottages with monthto-month rentals. Cottages range from 1,500 to 2,300 sf and feature 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, an office/den, fireplace, double car garage, and front/back yards. Residents enjoy spacious, peaceful cottages with senior living amenities, including 24/7 emergency services, chef-prepared meals, housekeeping, Life Enrichment programming, gardens, outdoor spaces, and a clubhouse—offering a truly maintenance-free lifestyle.
Cedarwood at Sandy is a beautiful community located beneath the breathtaking Wasatch Mountain offering Independent and Assisted Living apartment homes, as well as Memory Care.
10970 S. 700 E., Sandy, UT 84070
ONLY A FEW COTTAGES REMAIN!
CALL TODAY: 801.572.4456
MEET DR. HARARAH, M.D.
Dr. Hararah, a triple board-certified physician, completed his residency in Family Medicine at NYU Langone and a fellowship in Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine/Wound Care at SUNY Upstate University Hospital. With additional training in Bariatric Medicine and certification from the American Board of Obesity Medicine, he brings expertise in primary care, dive medicine, bariatric medicine, and clinical hyperbarics.
A firm believer in the biopsychosocial approach, Dr. Hararah views patients as complex individuals whose lives and experiences shape their healthcare. Known for his compassionate care and dedication, he listens intently, prioritizes your well-being, and works to find the best diagnosis and treatment plan.
As the owner of Blackstone Medical, Dr. Hararah is committed to helping you achieve your best health.
OUR SERVICES
Primary Care:
• Annual preventative physical exams
• Cancer screening
• Sick visits
• Specialist referrals
• Medication refills
• Chronic disease management
Specializing in Wound Care:
• Chronic, non-healing wounds
• Acute, minor wounds
• Diabetic foot ulcers
• Venous ulcers
• Arterial ulcers
• Pressure injuries...and more!
Patients First:
“Dr. Hararah understands the daunting and sometimes demoralizing feelings health care sometimes causes, and wants patients to be truly seen and valued as human beings.”
Utah Sports Hall of Fame coach hits home run for equality
Former Jordan coach’s story spans decades of dedication and proves good coaching knows no gender.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
It’s been more than 20 years since Mary Kay Amicone made history at Jordan High — the first woman in Utah to coach a high school boys’ baseball team. But Amicone, a 2025 Utah Sports Hall of Fame inductee, never set out to change the playbook for women in Utah sports. She just loved the game.
She grew up in Southern California, always in the lineup with her brothers and neighborhood kids.
“My only friends were boys in the neighborhood because I had two brothers,” Amicone said. “There were lots of opportunities for playing on teams or after-school programs where you learned how to play sports.”
Amicone’s mother, a former Orange Lionette fastpitch softball player, signed her daughter up for Bobby Sox softball at 8 — her first official at-bat in organized sports.
“It was the only organized team sport for girls at that time. I had played a lot of baseball. There often was a game of Over the Line and whoever was available would play,” she said.
After moving to Utah in junior high, Mary Kay Anderson, as she was known then, kept her eye on the ball — playing volleyball, basketball and softball at Murray High.
“At Murray, there was only one gym and who took the gym? Of course, the guys,” she said about the mid 1970s. “In those days, they were just starting women’s sports, so we would go to Field Days and play a round robin tournament. We played in our gym suits; we didn’t have any uniforms — but we were grateful for the opportunity to play.”
Amicone kept swinging in college, playing softball at Weber State and later the University of Utah, serving as team captain at both.
“After my sophomore season, the news broke Weber State softball would no longer be sanctioned. It was devastating. They decided not to sponsor it saying it was too expensive. But honestly, softball wasn’t that expensive. We didn’t have equipment back then. We didn’t wear helmets. We had about three to four bats. We had our own gloves. The costs were uniforms and travel, so there was really no logic to it,” she said.
At the U, Amicone’s team played in the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women World Series — her first taste of postseason play on the national stage.
“It was cool to play there; it was quite an event,” she said.
While teaching at Riverton and Oquirrh elementaries and playing in fast pitch and slow pitch leagues, Amicone found herself in the coaching box at the U of U as an assistant. She married Marc, former U of U associate athletic director and later president of the Salt Lake Bees; his upbringing also was deeply rooted into softball and baseball.
“I loved coaching. I always felt like coaching was teaching,” she said. “I feel I was a trailblazer in women’s sports. I was one of the only coaches at the time who had children, and there were times when people doubted me. I’d say, ‘Don’t hold me back. I can do this, if you’ll let me manage that situation.’”
The Amicones’ support system — including her mother, in-laws and friends — often pinch-hit when they needed help.
During Amicone’s career, she called signals at nearly every level: Brigham Young University, Salt Lake Community College, Weber State University as well as Bingham High, where she was an assistant coach for girls basketball and softball. Her collegiate coaching record includes more than 800 wins, multiple conference titles and several trips to the postseason.
As BYU’s first softball coach in 2000, she helped the Cougars clinch the Mountain West title in their second season. But after a “difference of philosophies” with the women’s athletic director, Amicone walked away from the program.
Around that time, life threw her a curveball — the sudden death of her younger brother, the last surviving member of her family, from a brain aneurysm.
“I was really down. I wasn’t sure I wanted to coach again so I was going to go back to elementary school teaching,” Amicone remembered.
Then Jordan High’s athletic director, Marc Hunter, made a clutch call. He urged her to apply to be the school’s baseball coach.
“I said, ‘I don’t think so.’ He went on, saying, ‘You’re the best coach I know,’” Amicone said and conceded. “I had zero idea I’d be coaching there. I did not know that coaching boys was an option — none — but they decided I was the best candidate for the job.”
With her sons in the program’s lineup — Trevor on varsity and Derek, a freshman — Amicone found herself back in the dugout.
“At first, it wasn’t a gender thing. It became a gender thing when we started playing against other schools where, it was quoted, ‘We’re not going to lose to that woman.’ I was like, ‘Well, you’re not playing against the woman; you’re playing against our team,’” she said.
Amicone said the heckling turned ugly — and some, played out publicly.
“Your son shouldn’t be hit by a pitch because his mom is the coach. Anytime he
(Trevor) was in the game, the message was sent. I had this conversation with him: ‘If they pitch inside, just roll in and own it. You’ll get on base.’ It was very hard for him,” Amicone said. “It was poor for the opposing team because those young men had role models with gender issues, and they set the tone; they were an embarrassment to be called coaches.”
Despite the challenges, the team made a run for the title, finishing second in state. That’s when Amicone got the call to return to softball — at SLCC.
“I sat down with Trevor and told him I was proud of the way he handled the season, but then I asked him, ‘What do you feel like is the best decision for me and for you?’” she said.
He encouraged his mom to accept the coaching job at SLCC where she lead the Bruins to seven conference titles in nine seasons.
“I left Jordan’s program in a great spot. The next year, they won state. It was incredible to watch and fun to know I was a part of the grassroots of this championship team,” she said.
To Amicone, good coaching is good coaching — regardless of who’s on the roster.
“As a coach, you want to bring out the best in them. I coach them hard; that’s what I know. Kids need guidance,” she said.
Now retired, Amicone is still active — trading cleats for court shoes with pickleball and racquetball and enjoying life as a grandmother. But her clubhouse includes her former players.
“I’d like to think if we could all relate to one another as team members and be a good team member in society, we’d be much better,” she said. “With my teams, I don’t have to be their coach anymore, but the relationships can continue as friends.”
In late September, several former players and coaches were part of Amicone’s team, celebrating her induction into the Utah Sports Hall of Fame. l
Mary Kay Amicone speaks to the crowd during her 2025 Utah Sports Hall of Fame induction. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
stands firsthand the demands of the job — the long hours, the physical and emotional toll, and the unpredictability of every emergency.
“Our firefighters don’t just work here; they live here during their shifts. They eat together, they train together, and they respond together as a family,” McConaghie said. “That’s why this building matters. It provides the space and resources to ensure their jobs are safe and effective. When we take care of our firefighters, they can take care of the community. But let me be clear: the real strength of this station will never be found in its walls; it will always lie in the men and women who protect lives day after day. To our community, thank you for trusting us and investing in us. We will continue to serve with honor and professionalism.”
Breakfast was followed by a “fire hose-cutting ceremony,” flag raising, and the ringing of the 135-year-old historic fire bell, newly restored and installed at Station 31. The community was then invited to an open house filled with family fun, including a glide down the bright red fire slide, which Sandy firefighters will soon use in their day-to-day operations.
l
October Members of the Month: Kevin Hernandez Rodriguez, Leonardo Landa Isais, & Bella Lucero! Kevin is 10 years old: Kevin wants to become a cop when he grows up, he has been attending the Sandy Club for 5 years, in that time he has learned how to make friends. Leonardo is 9 years old: he wants to become a soccer player, he has been attending for 2 years, in that time he has learned to be kind. Bella is 7 years old: she wants to become an artist. She has been attending for 2 months, and in that time, she has learned how to make friends. CONGRATULATIONS ONCE AGAIN, WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU ALL!
Left: The Sandy City community celebrated the grand opening of the new Sandy Fire Department Headquarters Right: A future Sandy City firefighter pauses for a brief conversation about Fire Station 31. (Collette Hayes/City Journals)
Re-Elect Mayor Monica Zoltanski
Your Former Sandy City Prosecutor
Prioritize Business Development to Fund City Services Fought Sales Tax on Food
Attracted $1 Billion in Private Funds to Create Pro Hockey - Soccer Sport Hub to Keep Taxes Low
Brought NHL to Sandy
Launched Mayor’s Sandy Business First Agenda
700 New Businesses; 1,600 Jobs
Fighting $1,200 Gondola Tax Keeping Taxes Low Fighting High-Density in Single
Adding New Restaurants, Entertainment, Retail to Fund City Services
Brought $35 Million in Outside Funding for Roads, Bridges, Recreation - Not Funded by Taxpayers
Championed Comprehensive Emergency & Wildfire Readiness
Stopped Pavement of Dimple Dell Park Keeping Bulk Waste Pickup
My Gluten Free World Expo serves up flavor
The event attracts people living with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com
estimated that at least 3 million Americans struggle with celiac disease, an autoimmune illness triggered by consuming gluten. Not only does eating products with gluten cause pain, bloating and cramping for people with celiac, it can ultimately damage the small intestine.
Gluten is a protein found in a variety of grains, including wheat, rye and barley. While doctors say most people shouldn’t avoid gluten, for those diagnosed with celiac or gluten intolerance, cutting out gluten products is the best way to feel better.
Eight years ago, organizers introduced the first My Gluten Free World Expo to people in Utah and this year it included more than 100 vendors introducing gluten-free foods and products. The event was held at the end of September at the Mountain America Expo Center in Sandy.
Local company, Grandpa’s Kitchen, was started in 2007. McKaelle Kauwe’s great-grandfather began the business to help family members with celiac disease who struggled to find quality gluten-free breads and cakes. The company offers gluten-free flour, mixes and recipes to improve the quality of life for those who can’t eat gluten.
“There was no good, gluten-free food in 2007,” Kauwe said. “He created a good flour blend and went through a lot of bad iterations to get to this point and now we’re trying to share it with the world.”
Kauwe said many gluten-free products are made with chickpea flour, which can leave a bitter aftertaste, and gluten-free bread can be dense, gritty and prone to falling apart easily.
The vendors at My Gluten Free World Expo are trying to build better products by using different flour blends and ingredients to create a more realistic flavor and texture to gluten-free foods. Amanda Wuerz started Hugz Snacks in Utah, selling vegan and gluten-free cheez bread inspired by her Brazilian heritage.
“It stands out for a couple of reasons,” Wuerz said. “First, I use freshly-grated cheese. My Colby Jack cheese is freshly grated and put into the dough. And I don’t use seed oil. It’s pure avocado oil and it’s made in small batches.”
Other products at the expo included seasonings, soups, cooking oils, lotions, soaps, cooking utensils, drinks, protein bars and desserts. Gluten-free testing kits were a big hit at the expo, giving people the opportunity to test foods in restaurants to ensure food safety.
Jill Smith is the chief technical officer of Leo Verified, a gluten-free detection kit to help relieve the stress of dining out. It only takes three minutes to get results, so people can make healthy choices quickly.
Retirement Living,
“I had not eaten au jus with prime rib for 31 years,” Smith said. “So I ordered prime rib, with the au jus on the side. Then I tested it and it was gluten-free. I wondered how many other things I’d been missing out on.”
Groups like Advanced Research Clinic attended the event to educate people about celiac disease and gluten sensitivity, and to recruit patients for a clinical trial that tests cutting-edge treatment for the disease.
Lynae Sorensen is an advanced practice nurse working with ARC. She said research into celiac and other autoimmune diseases is growing. Statistically, women are much more likely than men to be diagnosed with an auto-
immune disease and it can take years before it is identified. The average time for an autoimmune diagnosis is four to five years, but it’s often much longer.
“I spoke with a patient who had it for 11 years before she was diagnosed,” Sorensen said. “We’re learning more about specific chemical messengers that are attached to this disease. That’s where we can make specific medications to target those things. There’s a lot that they’re coming out with now and that’s exciting.”
For a list of My Gluten Free World Expo vendors, visit MyGlutenFree WorldExpo.com. l
Thousands of people attended the two-day My Gluten Free World Expo to stock up on gluten-free products and find new favorites. (Peri Kinder/City Journals)
Mrs. Hewitt’s vendor booth at My Gluten Free World Expo sold its popular bread, cake mixes, waffles and cookies. (Peri Kinder/City Journals)
Turning Down the Political Temperature
The recent shooting of Charlie Kirk was a wake-up call for Americans who value free speech. What drives someone to fear opposing views so deeply that violence feels justified? If we want to cool our nation’s overheated politics, each of us can start with three changes.
1. Don’t call names or label the other side. Our country was founded on the belief that open debate makes us stronger. The Founders argued fiercely when crafting the Constitution—and that was healthy. But when disagreement turns into name-calling, the conversation collapses. History shows that dehumanizing language can fuel tragedy; in Rwanda, propaganda that labeled the Tutsis as “cockroaches” helped spark genocide.
Calling people “evil” or “dangerous” never changes minds. Respectful discussion does. Express your beliefs firmly but without vilifying others. The moment you deny someone dignity, your argument loses power. One way to rebuild civility is to teach debate skills in middle school and high school class -
Aimee Winder Newton
Salt Lake County Councilmember| District 3
rooms so the next generation learns how to disagree productively.
2. Listen more than you speak. None of us is right all the time. Listening with empathy to those who see things differently can preserve friendships and strengthen our communities. Try this: ask someone with an opposing political view to explain their perspective for 5-10 minutes. Repeat back what you heard, thank them, and resist the urge to argue. It’s hard—but it’s how understanding begins. During my 12 years on the Salt Lake County Council, I’ve served on a body that’s often split almost evenly between Republicans and Democrats. We debate
passionately, sometimes disagree strongly, yet still shake hands afterward. We recognize that each member represents different constituents and experiences. Even when votes fall along party lines, mutual respect keeps us working together. I’m proud of that example of civil governance.
3. Recognize how you’re being manipulated. Social media algorithms are designed to provoke emotion, not inform. Once a platform detects your political leanings, it floods your feed with fear or anger-inducing content to keep you scrolling— and advertisers paying. Limit your time online.
Keep in mind that each side is driven by this algorithm that fuels the flame of conviction. We question how the other side can be so out of touch, yet they simply don’t see what we see. Those on the other end of the political spectrum have never been shown the version of the story we know. Perhaps we are both right, but perhaps we are both wrong. It’s time to pause before the contempt destroys our country.
Cable news isn’t much better. Filling 24 hours of airtime pushes networks to amplify outrage and tailor coverage to partisan audiences. Try this experiment: if you watch a story on Fox News, switch to MSNBC for the other perspective, or vice versa. The truth may lie somewhere in between.
As we navigate the future, it’s important that we put down our phones, turn off the TV, and talk to real people. Human connection improves mental health and builds relationships. When the political climate feels toxic, step away from social media and find a friend to visit with—no debating required.
Our democracy depends on citizens who can disagree without demeaning, listen without shouting, and stay informed without being manipulated. By resisting name calling, listening with empathy, and unplugging from outrage, we can help lower the temperature, strengthen our communities, and set an example for the next generation that is watching us closely.
Life and Laughter - Embracing the Darkness (With Mashed Potatoes)
It’s not a good sign when a season has its own mental disorder, but here we are, entering the dark, cold, abysmal days of post-Daylight Saving Time when Seasonal Affective Disorder destroys all joy. Darkness descends like a roiling thunderstorm in a fantasy novel, erasing all sunshine and leaving us cowering in the cellar.
My husband thinks I’m dramatic, but I tell him to stop calling me names, as I drape across the fainting couch, gently dabbing my tears with a silken handkerchief. Anyway.
This year, Seasonal Affective Disorder has been changed to Seasonal Affective Despair as we watch the nation’s slow descent into malevolence and madness. Night falls immediately after lunch, pajamas are my goto wardrobe and my serotonin levels drop as quickly as my faith in humanity.
As we move toward winter, light deprivation should be considered a national crisis. Maybe we need a Vitamin D shot mandate or, at least, red light therapy lamps to replace all street lighting. Utah recently eliminated fluoride in the water; could we add a dash of Xanax?
I know there’s a fine line between hibernation and hiding, but maybe the bears have it right. Spend the summer and fall eating ev-
SANDY
Peri Kinder Life and Laughter
erything in sight, yank fresh salmon right out of the river, compete for the World’s Fattest Bear and then sleep until the sun returns.
Therapists recommend regular exercise, a healthy diet and sufficient sleep to improve mental health and reduce Seasonal Affective Despair symptoms, but nobody listens to their therapist; otherwise, we wouldn’t be in this national mess.
Someone on TikTok suggested organizing craft projects to get me through the dark months, but my closet is already full of discarded creations, including featherless pinecone turkeys and the unfinished baby blanket I was making for my first grandchild (who is now 21).
As I sorted through a tangle of thread from my last embroidery project and a cubic pound of glitter I bought when I thought making glitter angels with the grandkids was a good idea, I decided starting something
new wasn’t a good idea. Plus, I still have glue gun scars from my Halloween projects.
Maybe I can spend the next few months snuggled with a book by the fireplace (if we had a fireplace), enjoying a bowl of minestrone (just kidding, my husband hates soup) and trying to live with someone who hates soup.
I’ll be poppin’ melatonin gummies like, well, like gummies, and giving it my best to be optimistic in a season created when a god of the underworld kidnapped a young girl and held her hostage for six months. On a coincidentally bright note, pomegranates are back in stores.
At least Thanksgiving is coming up, when I can get my emotional support food: mashed potatoes.
As we move toward the end of the year, November offers an invitation to look back at the previous months to see…nope…never mind. Don’t do that if you’re looking for sunshine and rainbows. In fact, maybe throw your phone in the Great Salt Lake (if it still had water), disconnect from the internet, delete your social media pages and go off-grid until May.
Mentally prepare yourself to spend several months trapped in a home with kids, or grandkids, who won’t stop saying, “6-7” or muttering Italian Brainrot nonsense.
Maybe this year’s Seasonal Affective Despair will be the start of my superhero origin story. When the light finally returns, I’ll stumble into the sunshine, wearing wrinkled pajamas and gripping a glue gun, ready to battle the forces of evil.
