Jordan High renovations bring new life to nearly 30-year-old campus
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Improvements underway as principal who advocated for change prepares to leave.
More than half of a $45.8 million lease-revenue bond is being used to fund extensive upgrades at Jordan High School.
Visible improvements include a new west parking lot on the former Joanna’s Kitchen site at 9725 S. State St., a near-complete softball clubhouse, a new football scoreboard and ongoing construction on the east side for a black box theater and a 2,200-square foot field house.
Inside the building, patrons detouring through the counseling office will see a new main office and secure vestibule under construction, along with restroom upgrades — including the addition of unisex options. The secure entrance and office, along with some restrooms, should be ready for this school year.
Slated for completion by fall 2026 are renovations to the athletic locker rooms.
The total cost: $24 million.
“I worked really hard with the (Canyons
school) board and (Canyons School) District to advocate for Jordan High,” said Principal Bruce Eschler, who stepped down from his position June 30 to take an administrative position with Murray School District. “From day one, I asked (Canyons) District about a five-year facility plan for Jordan High and it’s one of the things I made sure I let them know because Jordan had some facility needs.”
Eschler, who spent his final days as principal in construction meetings with MHTN Architects and Hogan Construction, added, “Jordan deserves this; I wanted to see this done.”
Parking, restrooms and athletic improvements
The redevelopment began with transforming the former restaurant’s property into a new parking lot.
“It gives us greater access and additional parking for baseball, softball, all the field sports,” he said. “It’s going to help as we lost some parking for the field house.”
On the east side near the basketball arena,
September 25 | Alta View Hospital
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October 9 | LDS Hospital
September 25 | Alta View Hospital
October 2 | Riverton Hospital
October 7 | Intermountain Medical Center
October 9 | LDS Hospital
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Restroom renovations were a top priority.
“I spent my first year trying to understand the needs at Jordan and I heard again and again, the bathrooms were gross,” Eschler said. “I got to take a sledgehammer to some sheetrock and knock down a wall in one of the bathrooms; it was fun to do.”
Restrooms are being upgraded in phases — with new plumbing, tile, fixtures and stall walls — to ensure continuous availability. Two will be unisex with individual stalls and shared sinks, but 85% will remain traditional.
On the north side, a new football scoreboard now stands near the nearly-finished softball clubhouse. To the southwest, the field house under construction will feature indoor turf and a fitness and weight room, with completion expected by August 2026. Athletic offices and a training room are part of the improvement plan.
“We decided to put in fitness equipment and a weight room so this can be used as cross conditioning for PE as well as for athletics,” he said. “It actually gave us a little bit more turf.”
Performing arts upgrades
A black box theater is also in the works, set to open August 2026.
“We can configure it for different purposes; we could stream esports events, use it for a lecture and gathering space as well as for performing arts,” he said.
Other performing arts renovations include upgrades to costuming areas, auditorium AV and lighting and improvements in the band and choir classrooms, to be finished by July 2026. Gymnasium sound systems are also being updated.
“I want to come back and hear the new speakers and see the new lights in the musical next year because we’ve had rental speakers since November 2023,” he said.
Newly remodeled single-use restrooms are amongst the projects in Jordan High which are being renovated with a portion of a $45.8 million lease-revenue bond. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Main entrance modernization
As Eschler prepared to leave, his office was nearly empty — both for his move to Murray School District and because of renovations to the main office, which include a new secure vestibule.
“They punched in through what currently was our front office from our administrative conference room. Everything’s basically getting reoriented, and it will seem like a new front office,” he said.
Although leaving, Eschler had hoped to continue pushing for more upgrades — including flooring, irrigation and improvements to career and technical education areas such as automotive, jewelry, family and consumer sciences and childcare.
“The whole building doesn’t need to be torn down, maybe some moving walls and reconfiguring. Jordan is on the right path and
there are going to be some growing pains, especially next year, when all of this is being done,” he said.
Already scheduled next summer are upgrades to the locker rooms “because we have tile coming up.”
A principal’s legacy
“It’s bittersweet this opportunity (at Murray District) came when it did, because I have a lot of love for Jordan,” Eschler said about his four years as principal. “I’ve advocated for the students, the parents and the community here and I’m grateful the board listened to me.”
He recalled how COVID impacted morale when he started at Jordan in 2021.
“I think the community felt a little beat up from COVID and overlooked with other district construction projects. I wanted to spotlight the amazing things we were doing and
help people realize, there’s a lot of to be proud of,” he said. “Our faculty, staff and students love Jordan and have pride in knowing what it means to be a Beetdigger.”
He also expressed gratitude for the board’s support of Jordan’s naval program and AVID initiatives.
“I’m here today because a teacher, Kathy DeMaul, advocated for me at Highland High,” he said. “I just took it down, but on my wall, I had framed the word ‘advocate.’ I take that verb to advocate for students, teachers, administrators; that’s been my North Star. My teacher told me ‘I have potential. You are more than what you think you are. Quit coasting.’ I hope I’ve been an advocate like that at Jordan.”
Editor’s note: See accompanying article about other current construction projects in Canyons School District. l
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Jordan High teams’ scores will be shown on a new functioning scoreboard, which was installed this summer. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Hawaiian, Pacific Islander cultures celebrated at Hale Center series
“The teachings of hula are more than you see on the stage.”
By Victoria Wetzel v.wetzel@mycityjournals.com
“Ifcan, can, if no can, no can.” This common Hawaiian phrase is Hawaiian dancer Moriah Kolomalu’s favorite tradition in her Pacific Islander culture; it emphasizes the laid-back understanding of one’s limits. “Aloha is love,” Kolomalu added. Kolomalu got to share that aloha with her hālau (dance group) performing at Hale Center Theater’s Cultural Celebration Series 2025. Presented each Monday throughout the summer up until Aug. 18, the series features many performances from different cultures around the world. The emphasis of the performance on Aug. 18 was of the Hawaiian and Pacific Islander cultures.
Kolomalu hopes that by sharing her culture with audiences she can inspire younger people to get in touch with their roots and understand where they came from. Kolomalu’s fellow dancer (haumāna) Christina Summers also feels that understanding is a big part of the celebration of culture. “To watch little kids see it and get excited about it so they can grow up and continue these connections is something really special.”
One particularly special part about the
evening was the interactive section in which the audience members were invited onto the stage to participate in and learn some of the traditional dances, such as the Tahitian hula dance Ori Tahiti. In this dance the dancers wore long, black dresses to symbolize the themes of death and spirits which are conveyed in the dance movements. These dance movements are a quintessential part of these dances; and they are something Kolomalu wishes more people knew about. “[Hollywood] sexualizes our costumes and makes us seem more immodest than we are. When they show Polynesian dancing I feel like people don’t really understand that we’re telling stories.”
Summers shares a similar desire for people to have a better understanding of the Pacific Islander culture. “I wish they knew that hula is steeped in a lot of tradition…the teachings of hula are more than you see on the stage.”
Summers’s daughter, Ashley Miller, is also involved with hula dancing. Miller believes that a common misconception when it comes to hula dancing is “coconut bras,” when in reality, hula is about telling and maintaining important stories. “Hula is a way of life,” Miller stated.
One reason why Miller was excited for the opportunity to perform was to let the audience members feel “the spirit of genuine,
authentic hula and what it really stands for.”
Kathleen Brammer, a repeat guest to the cultural celebration evenings, believes that it is important to share and spread culture because “It gives everybody a taste of cultures they don’t know, and it’s important for young kids to see that their heritage is available to them.” Brammer has enjoyed the last few cultural celebration performances and plans on going to see more. “They’re
dancing and singing and it really gets you interested in different things you don’t get anywhere else.”
So if you missed it this summer, be sure to check out Hale Theater’s Cultural Celebration Series next year. Lay out on the grass, enjoy some shaved ice, and experience meaningful, authentic cultural performances. l
Hope takes center stage at the Healing Utah Success Summit
The summit features mindfulness, motivation and community to create a safe space for healing.
By Peri Kinder
peri.k@thecityjournals.com
For those impacted by addiction, the journey to recovery can seem overwhelming. People experiencing substance misuse often feel hopeless, as well as the family members and friends trying to help them.
The Healing Utah Success Summit is a safe space where individuals in recovery can share their stories. HUSS co-founder Al Richards said being open and vulnerable fosters a sense of community, resilience, purpose and hope.
“We bring in so many different people to share their stories,” Richards said. “We talk about mental health and we talk about those on the other side of addiction. We talk to family members and the event helps them understand a little bit more about addiction and what their loved one is going through, because it affects everyone.”
Richards and co-founder Malory Jacob will host the fifth HUSS on Saturday, Oct. 4, from 10:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. at the Miller Free Enterprise Center (9740 S. 300 West) in Sandy.
Featured speakers include Joe Valentine, Manny Lopez, Alan Fahringer, Cap Summerhays, Brooke Rushton, Tina Erdmann and Amber Kay. They each will share experiences to help break the stigma of addiction and provide a lifeline for those who are struggling.
Kay spent years living on the streets before starting her journey to recovery. She will share her story at HUSS for the first time in the hope it will encourage others to get the assistance they need.
“Being part of this community helped me begin to see my worth, even when I couldn’t feel it,” Kay wrote on her Face-
cast, understands that substance misuse recovery can feel overwhelming. He advises baby steps for those looking to regain control of their lives. Taking life one moment at a time, breaking it into achievable steps, makes the process achievable and long-lasting.
“When you find yourself where you’re struggling, there are so many people you can call,” he said. “It’s just putting your mind in a different mindset and then learning how to fire stronger, better neurons and get involved in the community and have good people around you. That’s what makes a big difference.”
book page. “It pushed me to face my fears, to lean into the uncomfortable spaces and to believe that healing was possible, not just for others, but for me too.
“I’ll be speaking at the Summit, sharing a part of my story I’ve never spoken out loud. It’s terrifying. It’s freeing. It’s real. And for the first time, I’m walking in my whole truth, without shame, just raw, honest hope.”
Each speaker will discuss the life changes that took them through addiction into long-term recovery. Many speakers were involved with gangs, spent time in prison, endured the foster care system and carried the shame of those experiences. Richards said HUSS is about releasing the shame and regaining power by showing up.
“You will get something out of it, you will have an aha moment somewhere in that event with possibly more than one aha moment,” he said. “If we could just change one person’s life, just one, the ripple effect will be so huge.”
Richards, who hosts The Other Side of Addiction Pod-
Family members are invited to attend the summit to help gain an understanding of the battles their loved ones face in recovery. Enabling behaviors can keep someone dealing with substance misuse from facing consequences or accepting accountability. Families and friends are given resources and tools to help their loved ones work through difficult issues that lead to healing.
Richards said a lot of recovery is learning to feel emotions. Using numbing tools, like drugs or alcohol, can keep a person from fully engaging in life. HUSS encourages honesty, emotional intelligence and compassion to build a community focused on healing, recovery and second chances.
“Life’s not always great,” he said. “Life hits us and it’s one of the hardest fights we have ahead of us. But you learn certain skills and certain habits to allow yourself to feel those emotions.”
HUSS tickets are $25 and can be purchased at healingsuccesssummit.com. Group discounts are available for groups from recovery centers. For more information, email hopeandabundance@gmail.com
“I’ve interviewed over 300 people on my podcast,” Richards said. “So many of them have said, ‘When I started my recovery, I didn’t think I was going to make it’…They all said, ‘You know, it was a struggle, but it was worth it.’” l
Hawaiian and Pacific Islander cultures were recognized as part of Hale Center ’s Cultural Celebration Series. (Victoria Wetzel/City Journals)
(From left) Joe Valentine, Manny Lopez, Malory Jacob, Alan Fahringer, Al Richards, Cap Summerhays, Amber Kay, Brooke Rushton and Tina Erdmann will speak about addiction recovery at the fifth annual Healing Utah Success Summit on Oct. 4. (Photo courtesy of Richards)
By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Asmore Americans pay attention to digestive health, Intermountain Health recently opened a free-standing endoscopy and surgical center in Sandy, located at Intermountain Health’s Alta View Hospital campus at 9450 S. 1300 East.
The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 100,000 new cases of colon cancer and nearly 47,000 cases of rectal cancer will be diagnosed in the United States this year. More than 50,000 Americans died from colon cancer in 2024, and doctors hope this facility will encourage more people to get screened for the disease.
“With the opening of our new endoscopy centers, Intermountain Health is increasing access to a lower-cost alternative for digestive health diagnostic and therapeutic procedures to prevent, identify and treat digestive health conditions in earlier stages,” Dr. Nathan Merriman said, senior medical director of the Surgical Specialties and Digestive Health Clinical Program at Intermountain Health. “This comes at a time when we’re seeing more people with
chronic digestive health conditions and younger ages of colon cancer across the U.S.”
Doctors recommend a colonoscopy screening beginning at 45, earlier if there’s a family history of colon cancer. Healthy eating, proper nutrition, improving gut health and maintaining a healthy weight can help lower the risk of colon cancer. This could mean limiting the amount of red meat consumed, eating fresh produce and whole grains and getting at least 30 minutes of exercise each day.
Intermountain Health professionals encourage patients to be proactive about their digestive health by talking with their doctors, getting screened and taking a team-based approach to a comprehensive health plan.
The free-standing endoscopy centers are more affordable because of lower overhead costs compared to operating under a hospital’s license. Patients are turning to this model of surgery center to keep out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare services down. The endoscopy center is a place that can help patients streamline their healthcare experience and no referral is needed for a screening colonoscopy at the Alta View Endoscopy Center.
Intermountain Health’s Riverton Hospital and McKay-Dee Hospital in Ogden will also open endoscopy centers. The Ogden facility will open later this year, while the Riverton location will open in 2026. The centers will be managed by Surgery Partners.
Care that Feels Like FAMILY.
“This partnership is a great example of how we can bring innovative care models to life by working together,” Noah Clevenger said, Surgery Partners regional vice president of operations. “By aligning our strengths, we’re creating more access points for patients in Utah to receive timely, affordable and highly specialized digestive healthcare, while supporting physicians with the tools and environment they need to deliver exceptional outcomes.”
In addition to colonoscopies, the endoscopy center will provide upper endoscopy pro-
cedures to examine the esophagus, stomach and upper part of the small intestine.
“[This will] help diagnose conditions like acid reflux, ulcers, swallowing difficulties, abdominal pain, bloating or nausea, chronic diarrhea, chronic constipation and hemorrhoids,” Merriman said. “These types of procedures can also aid in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic or more serious conditions like Crohn’s Disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis or esophageal cancer.”
For more information, visit intermountainhealthcare.org. l
Midvale gives a piece of road back to Sandy City
Midvale’s city council approved a land transfer of over an acre of Cy’s road within Sandy’s boundaries while maintaining rights to the water line stored beneath the street.
By Victoria Wetzel v.wetzel@mycityjournals.com
Midvale owns a piece of Sandy City and plans to give it back for $10.
The city council of Midvale voted 4-0 on July 15 to approve a quit claim deed, transferring some 1.32 acres of land along 8800 South Cy’s Road to Sandy.
The initiation of the deal sprang up when Midvale’s Public Works Department was made aware of the city’s ownership of the land by a Sandy resident calling in and asking for code enforcement and property maintenance on Cy’s Road, said Glen Kennedy, Public Works director, at the July 15 council meeting.
told her that she lives in Sandy, she needed to contact Sandy, which she already had,” Kennedy said. “And their code enforcement directed them to us because we were the property owner.”
Street sign of Cy’s Road located inside Sandy City’s boundaries (Giovanni Radtke/City Journals) [Map of Sandy City circling 8800 S. Cy’s Road where the parcel of land is located] (Courtesy of Midvale)
Huntington Learning Center Helps Students Succeed
Huntington Learning Center has helped students with academic success since 1977, with the Draper location opening in 2008. Mandilyn Johansen, franchisee and director of the Huntington Learning Center in Draper, said many parents see a decline in public education and aren’t sure where to get their students help. With an increase in ADHD and ASD, parents need an expert to help their students succeed.
What is your background, Mandilyn?
I worked at Huntington as a teacher in 2019, then as Assistant Director, and then as Center Director. I bought the business in January of 2023. I graduated magna cum laude from the University of Utah with a bachelor’s degree in International Studies and Linguistics, and a certi cate for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages.
What services do you o er?
What sets your company apart from competitors?
With our K-12 skill-building tutoring program, we start with a comprehensive evaluation to gauge where each student needs support. We then tailor tutoring to each student to help them reach the appropriate grade level in math, reading, writing and study skills.
We ensure students have foundational skills to set them up for academic success and meet with parents regularly, so everything is transparent. We provide tutoring for most subjects, including math through college level, science, history, ELA, AP classes, etc.
Do you o er test prep?
Yes, we have a program for the ACT, SAT, preACT or PSAT. We start with an evaluation using a full-length ACT or SAT to give us a breakdown of what concepts are missing. Then we create a program to help students reach their goals.
Our individualized approach is based on an original assessment and we are committed to our students. We connect with schools and teachers, so what we do with students is seen in the classroom as well. We are accredited through the Middle States Association and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. We undergo the same accreditation process as other schools and universities, meaning we meet or exceed established standards of educational quality.
Does your business solve a problem? If homework time is a dreaded part of the day or your child is bored in school and wants to get ahead, we take some of the burden o parents. Often, students hate school and lose motivation because it’s too di cult and they aren’t sure how they’ll catch up. We start students at a comfortable place to build con dence in their abilities. Parents worry their student will refuse tutoring, but the majority of students notice the changes in their skills and learn to value tutoring.
How do potential clients normally choose between you and a competitor?
We often have students enroll after working with one of our competitors. We don’t waste time on concepts students have already mastered, which is a common complaint I’ve heard about some competitors. Our accreditation sets us apart from private tutors and other smaller tutoring companies.
What factors should potential customers take into account?
Our average ACT score increase is six points. Our SAT score average increase is 229 points. That can make the di erence in getting into a dream college or earning a scholarship. The K-12 students enrolled in
our skill-building program move up an average of two grade levels in reading and math in three months. It’s good to get students in for tutoring as soon as you see the signs. They start to lose con dence in their ability as school continues to get harder.
Are you running any specials or events?
Currently, $100 from the Assessment Fee will go toward enrollment. Come visit us at the Chill Act event at the Mountain America Expo Center on Sept. 27. We also have free webinars with education experts throughout the year. We accept the Utah Fits All Scholarship.
What is your service area?
We service the Salt Lake Valley and o er online tutoring for students anywhere they live. We can do 100% virtual for any student, or create hybrid programs for students who are nearby, with online tutoring and in-person tutoring.
Anything else you would like our readers to know?
I am a success story of Huntington Learning Center. My siblings and I attended Huntington for ACT or SAT prep throughout our high school careers. I was able to raise my score and get into my dream college, the University of California San Diego, studying marine biology. My brothers got into the colleges they wanted or received scholarships. I wanted to help others reach their goals, so I came back to work here and now own it.
Huntington Learning Center 684 E 11400 South, Ste. C | 801-810-2759 huntingtonhelps.com/locations/draper-ut FB @HLCDraperUT
Mexican-American author celebrates heritage with her fantasy series
By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Amilea Perez set a 2024 New Year’s resolution to write a book. She had no writing experience but loved to read and thought the transition to being an author couldn’t be hard. Perez found an editor to guide her through the process and by April of 2024, her book was complete.
It was never her intention to become an author. As a 2020 Skyline High grad, Perez enrolled at the University of Utah with the hope of attending medical school. She took STEM courses and prerequisite classes before hitting a wall. She turned to writing as a creative outlet.
“This was such an outlandish dream for me as someone who was from the STEM field and spent her days in the lab,” Perez said. “But it’s working out.”
“The Tournament of Heirs,” released in October 2024, is a tribute to her heritage as a first-generation Mexican-American. Stories based on Greek, Roman or Norse mythology were prevalent when she was growing up, but Perez hadn’t seen a fantasy series based on Indigenous cultures in Mexico, like the Mayans and Aztecs. She decided to change that.
Her book features Acalan and his sister, Metztli, who are trained to fight in the Tournament of Heirs, a battle to the death where they must compete and win against other houses and combatants.
“I want people to be less afraid to pick up something they don’t know anything about,” she said. “I think it’s im-
portant to diversify your reading. I always encourage people to be actively looking for books that are being published by authors of color…It elevates your reading experience to be more well-rounded.”
Perez, who lives in Sandy, has spoken out about giving people of color a place at the publishing table. The career platform Zippia reported that 75.6% of published authors are white, followed by Hispanic or Latino at 7.6% and Black or African American at 5.9%.
In an Instagram post, Perez wrote, “Without a place at the table, it’s impossible for POC authors to truly thrive. It’s an even greater issue that the majority of executives making
decisions about our books are white.”
For her books, Perez draws inspiration from Mexican culture, dancing and music. Her research into Indigenous civilizations deepened her appreciation for her cultural history. She wants her stories to showcase the history of her people.
“I think a lot of the time these Indigenous cultures, like the Mayans and Aztecs, like we only remember the bad stuff,” she said. “I think in between all of that, we lose all the really beautiful stuff, like the culture and the spirituality of how they lived and what they believed in, and all the mythos.”
Spanish is Perez’s first language, but her parents encouraged her to read to strengthen her English skills. That reading background helped launch her fantasy series, with the second book scheduled to be released on Sept. 30.
Her second book, “The Reckoning of Heirs,” was harder for Perez to write. After only two characters survived her first book, she found she’d killed off all the past storylines and she finds it challenging to write characters that are human and flawed. The pressure of writing a sequel made the process stressful, but she’s grateful for how her first book was received and accepted.
Perez appreciates her 22,000 Instagram followers (@ Amilea.writes) because they support her and give her the courage to continue her writing journey. She tells aspiring writers not to give up, to keep practicing the craft, even if it’s small steps each day.
“You never know what’s going to happen,” she said. “Start writing, start promoting. All you have to do is start. I wish someone had told me that earlier. I would tell people to follow their dreams.” l
Amilea Perez transforms a dream into a popular book series.
Sandy resident Amilea Perez at a signing for her first book, “The Tournament of Heirs.” Her second book in the series, based on Indigenous Mexican culture, is scheduled to be released at the end of September. (Photo courtesy Amilea Perez)
Pets
A publication covering local pets, their humans and their care around the Salt Lake Valley
What’s
your pet thinking? This animal psychic knows
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
If you’ve ever wondered if your dog is happy, your lizard is upset or your bird is mad at you, Jennafer Martin could help you find the answer. Martin is a pet psychic with years of experience communicating with animals, getting to the root of what’s bothering your furry, feathery or scaly pet.
By tapping into an animal’s emotions, Martin offers insight into their behaviors, fears and level of contentment. She first realized she could communicate with pets when she received a Teddy Bear Hamster for her 14th birthday.
“For three days, she was happy, playful and delightful, but on the fourth day, I felt she was sad,” Martin said. “She wasn’t sighing heavily, or anything like that, I just felt like she wasn’t happy…Two days later, she had 13 babies. I would think if you’re gestating 13 of anything, you wouldn’t be very happy.”
It was the first time she realized she could pick up on things other people couldn’t. It was easy for her to read the emotions of the animals and share that insight as a way to create better understanding between humans and pets.
Martin had been a tarot reader and energy worker for several years before she decided to become a professional pet psychic in 2013.
“Even if I’m reading for animals, I’m still reading for people, so they understand how interesting their animals are,” she said. “I’ve read for reptiles, rodents, fish and large animals like ostriches and horses.”
Whether it’s decoding a bird’s persistent squawking or helping a rescue dog settle into a new home, Martin said her work bridges the gap between human and animal hearts.
Most animals have the mental capacity of a 2- to 5-year-old and she doesn’t receive fully-formed guidance from the
pets. Instead, she feels their emotions, sees images or has an intuitive sense about what’s going on in the pet’s mind.
While reading for a French Bulldog, Martin said the dog kept sending her an image of something orange and puffy, and the dog didn’t like it. The owners couldn’t think of any blanket or clothing item that would cause her such annoyance until they remembered a Halloween costume from the previous year. They’d dressed her as Nemo, from “Finding Nemo,” made with orange, puffy fabric. Martin had picked up on the dog’s irritation with the costume, which the owners promised never to use again.
Holly Esch regularly reaches out to Martin for help with her six lizards and she believes it’s kept them healthy and happy. After her lizard’s partner died, Esch asked Martin how her lizard was coping with the loss and if he was open to meeting another lizard. When Esch was trying to hatch lizard eggs, she asked Martin to do Reiki energy work to keep them from dying off.
“I ask relationship questions about them because they’re kind of like humans,” Esch said. “They bicker, they fall in love, they have their own little dramas and they have their own little different personalities. [Martin] just knows a lot of things and offers another perspective.”
When a family’s rescue tortoise kept trying to escape, Martin let them know he was looking for a mate. She discovered why an anxious cat had stopped using its litter box and why a puppy wouldn’t use the bathroom outside if he was alone. When Martin’s sister had a cat dying from cancer, Martin let her know when it was time to relieve its suffering.
Martin is often met with skepticism and is sometimes “tested” by pet owners when she’s asked to work with an animal, but she’s fine with that. She said it’s not her job to convince anyone that what
she’s doing is real.
“It’s fine to come with a sense of curiosity or a sense of skepticism,” she said. “At the end of the day, hopefully you know a little bit more about why your pet thinks or feels or behaves the way they do. You don’t have to buy in on what I do, as long as you resonate with the message that I give.”
Animals don’t always see the world the way humans do. Martin hopes her ability to communicate with pets helps owners become more patient and un-
derstanding with “naughty” behavior, especially when the animal is trying to be heard.
“I’d say 90% of the time, they’re not trying to be difficult. They’re just trying to get their needs met,” Martin said. “Sometimes, they’re just a little misguided or misunderstood…If you understand your animal better, then you feel like you can take care of them better, and then everybody’s happy.”
To schedule an appointment with Martin, visit readingsmorebyjennafer.com.
Jennafer Martin is a pet psychic in Salt Lake County who works with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, horses, fish and reptiles. She’s shown here with Rosey. (Photo courtesy of Martin)
WIGHTMAN LEGAL
A Paw-sitive Legacy: Humane Society of Utah Marks 65th Anniversary
By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com
Sixty-five years after opening its first shelter in a modest West Valley City facility, the Humane Society of Utah marked its journey from humble beginnings to becoming the state’s largest open-admission animal resource center. The nonprofit celebrated its anniversary with a free community birthday party at its Murray location on Saturday, July 12.
“We are throwing a fun-filled all ages welcome birthday party!” the organization stated in a press release prior to the event. “Enjoy activities such as a bounce house, carnival games, face painting, balloon art, and more.”
Founded in 1960, HSU has operated as an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit funded entirely through donations, without government or state support. Its mission has remained consistent for more than six decades: to protect and improve the lives of animals across Utah.
“This summer, the Humane Society of Utah is thrilled to celebrate 65 years of saving pets and supporting families in Utah,” the release stated. “As we celebrate this special birthday, we reflect on how far we have come, and the generous community support that made this milestone possible.”
HSU opened its first facility in West Valley City before relocating in 1992 to its current Murray site, the Janice R. Johnson Center for Animals, funded by a request from Utah schoolteacher Janice Johnson. The larger building allowed the organization to expand its services
and later add specialized adoption areas, including Kitty City, Bunny Bungalows, Dawgville, Tiny Town, and Critter Country.
“In 1972, HSU opened the first lowcost spay/neuter clinic in the Intermountain West,” the release noted. “This essential milestone helped to prevent overpopulation in the area, and gave countless pets the chance for a healthier, happier life.”
The Murray facility also continued to offer a range of services through its integrated clinic, including low-cost spay/ neuter surgeries, vaccinations, microchipping, wellness exams, and heartworm testing. Specialized programs such as CATNIP, a community cat spay/ neuter and trap initiative, and SNIP, a spay/neuter incentive program for pet owners experiencing financial hardship, were developed to address specific needs.
In 2020, HSU opened a second clinic in St. George to expand access to affordable veterinary care in southern Utah. In 2024, wellness exams were added to its Murray clinic offerings. “These preventative care services are vital to protecting pet health and wellness,” HSU stated. “They allow pets and families to enjoy longer, healthier years together.”
In 2023 alone, HSU reported placing 5,529 homeless animals into new homes and assisting approximately 1,189 community-owned pets through its retention and diversion programs. The organiza-
tion emphasized an education-focused adoption process and a policy of no time limits for healthy or treatable pets awaiting adoption.
Staffing included 53 full-time employees and numerous volunteers. Community engagement extended through adoption events, humane education, foster programs, rescue and transfer initiatives, and legislative advocacy efforts aimed at preventing animal cruelty and addressing the root causes of pet homelessness.
“Donations from our caring community have been the backbone of every expansion, every new program, and every life-saving effort over the years,” the release stated. “It is inspiring to see how our community has stepped up to the plate, generously giving love and hope to local pets in their time of need.”
As part of its anniversary message, HSU highlighted plans to modernize its facilities and expand collaboration with other organizations. “Caring for pets does not exist in a vacuum. Protecting vulnerable pets begins with supporting our human neighbors,” the release said.
While reflecting on its past, HSU also pointed to the future. “We have accomplished so much together in 65 years,” the organization stated. “We cannot wait to see what the next 65 years will bring for pets and families in Utah.”
For more information on the Humane Society of Utah’s programs, adoption services, or volunteer opportunities, visit utahhumane.org.
The Humane Society of Utah celebrated 65 years of caring for animals. (Photo courtesy of Humane Society of Utah)
No more bribing: Mobile Veterinary Options brings the vet to the pet
By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
Do you know where the closest veterinarian is to you right now? Or how you’d get your pet there? Sometimes, getting our non-human family members in to see the doctor can seem like a daunting task. That’s where Dr. Kate Swain has Salt Lake County residents covered. Swain is the owner and operator of Mobile Veterinary Options: a mobile veterinary service. Yes, you read that right – a vet van.
After working in two clinics for over 12 years, Dr. Swain noticed how the animals that had bad experiences in the vet’s office wouldn’t come back. When dogs and cats would get panicked on the way into the vet’s office, they’d react based on their fear instincts.
“It’s also a lot of stress on the owners,” said Swain. “It’s stressful when you know taking your pet in isn’t going to go smoothly. It makes people just stop taking their pets in.”
Dr. Swain wanted to provide better options for pet-owners as, just like with us humans, yearly exams are important for animal health.
“We are trying to get ahead of diseases,” Swain said. “If animals can get in once per year, same as with people and our yearly exams, we can catch things early with bloodwork.”
Mobile Veterinary Options travels throughout Salt Lake County to visit dogs, cats and horses outside of an office environment. During an appointment, Dr. Swain can either come into the animal’s environment or walk the animal out to the van.
“Some dogs are protective of their own space; some do better when we come to them. It’s really variable,” she said.
Swain shared how visiting the animal’s environment can help to provide some insight into what problems may exist. For example, one of the top three issues she visits clients for is allergies. Peaking into the animal’s environment who is experiencing allergy symptoms can help her deduce if they’re suffering
from food or environmental allergies.
Together with Veterinary Technician Stacie Moseley, Dr. Swain offers a variety of services for dogs, cats and horses throughout the valley. They can conduct wellness, emergency, and quality of life exams as well as mobile surgeries including dental surgeries, general surgeries and spay and neuter. They’re also equipped and prepared for home hospice and end-of-life care services including qualify of life examples, pain management and euthanasia.
“It’s just the two of us and we love it,” Swain said. “We get to go on beautiful drives. It’s, overall, so much better for my personal wellbeing to be out.”
Moseley grew up in upstate New York and has been in the veterinary field for over 18 years. Her areas of interest include animal behavior and training, feline diseases, surgery and pain management. She is a certified dog trainer, pet sitter and gardener.
“Stacie is one of the best techs I’ve ever worked with,” Swain said. “I don’t know what I’d do if she quit. She’s irreplaceable.”
Dr. Swain studied veterinary medicine at Glasgow University for five years
before returning to Utah to continue her education and career and be close to her family. Her areas of interest include surgery, dentistry, acupuncture and rescue medicine.
Mobile Veterinary Options also offers their four-legged clients options for acupuncture and laser therapy services. Acupuncture benefits include relaxation, endorphin release and response from tight muscles (especially in the backs of horses).
“Laser therapy is an option for animals who can’t have more pain medication,” Swain said. “It’s really easy to do without touching them.”
Mobile Veterinary Options has a class 4 laser that can penetrate to the bone—which can help with things like bone fractures, ear infections, and bladder stones.
Swain mentioned that chronic pain in animals is more common than many pet-owners realize. Chronic arthritis in older animals, as well as soft injury tissue in horses, is a common occurrence in their day-to-day.
“When they see their dog or cat everyday, they just don’t see that their animal is in pain,” said Swain. “A lot of animals are living with chronic pain.”
Dr. Swain highly recommends for all residents with pets to invest in pet insurance.
“It’s super helpful for people to have pet insurance because we can do more for the animals,” she said.
In addition, Swain thinks we’re still catching up on spay and neutering, even in 2025. She would like to see more education throughout the County on spay and neuter.
Besides equipment, Dr. Swain has noticed a huge need for large animal vets in the area. About once per week, she gets a call about a goat, pig or cow and has to decline. She’s also noticing an increasing call volume for chickens.
Mobile Veterinary Options is currently traveling to take appointments throughout Salt Lake County. Routine check-ups and exams can be booked out for about two weeks as Swain and Mosesly plan to leave room in their daily schedules for emergency calls.
Find information and news about pet-care through their socials on Facebook and Instagram at @mobileveterinaryoptions.
Or visit their website at: www.mobileveterinaryoptions.com.
No more having to wait in a lobby of nervous animals, Mobile Veterinary Options comes to you. (Photo courtesy of Mobile Veterinary Options)
This gentle giant (155 lbs.), Tootsie Bear, did amazing for his exam with Dr. Swain! Any guesses on his weight? (Photo courtesy of Mobile Veterinary Options)
Petapalooza is back, where rescue animals take center stage
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Join Salt Lake County Animal Services for a celebration of our furry family members at Petapalooza. This free, family-friendly event turns Wheeler Historic Farm into a haven for animal enthusiasts with pet adoptions, free microchips for licensed pets, food trucks and local pet-friendly vendors.
The two-day event will host hundreds of adoptable dogs, cats and small animals from local rescues and shelters. Friday’s experience is mostly for pet adoption, while Saturday features a full range of activities.
Guests can get a photo of their pet, talk with dozens of vendors dedicated to helping animals and visit with pet psychic Jennafer Martin for insight into their pet’s emotions and health.
“This event helps clear out not only the shelter and rescues, but also allows more eyeballs on these pets, even if people are not looking for a pet,” said Ashley Bales, Salt Lake County Animal Services communications coordinator. “People show up and support what we do. They visit the vendors, too, because typically these vendors are in the local communities. They’re local businesses, small businesses and family businesses.”
Petapalooza will be held at Wheeler Historic Farm (6351 S. 900 East) on Friday, Sept. 12 (3-7 p.m.) and Saturday, Sept. 13 (9 a.m. - 4 p.m.). The event is sponsored by Salt Lake County Animal Services and No-Kill Utah.
“Our photographer will also be there,” Bales said. “Once a month, she goes into the shelter and donates her time to do photos for all of our dogs. It’s proven that shelter dogs with a better photo have a higher adoption rate. So she volunteers her time, and she’s been doing it for like 10 years. It’s great to have her at the event to do photos for dogs in the community.”
Attendees can also donate to Salt Lake County Animal Services and learn about No-Kill Utah, an initiative led by Best Friends to end the killing of animals in Utah shelters. Learn more about animal services at saltlakecounty.gov/animal-services.
Optimize Your Game at Rozay Golf — Now Open in Sandy
Alec Rosales and his wife Lauren, started Rozay Golf from the ground up. Their business model is based on their personal experiences in prioritizing family and work, and their passion for golf and tness.
Rozay Golf o cially opened its doors on Monday, Sept. 1, inviting all who are passionate about golf, health, and/or family to enjoy a collection of world-class golf simulators, chipping and putting green, and private bays in a premium and comfortable space. The concept allows people to optimize their game while spending time with people who matter the most.
Tell us about Rozay Golf.
Rozay Golf allows golfers to pursue their passion for the game, take care of their tness, and share a comfortable space with the people they love the most, all at the same time. It o ers the convenience of not having to be on an actual golf course for 4 or more hours in a day, and allows play in all types of weather.
We o er completely private bays, roughly 1,000 square feet of chipping and putting area, and a high-quality custom gym. Our aim is to provide the highest level of customer experience for Rozay Golf members every time they step into our clubs.
What simulators do you use?
Each bay features the Full Swing Pro 2.0 Simulator with the most realistic golf software in the business. It o ers swing analysis and is the only simulator that measures your ball at impact with an overhead, high-speed camera to show the most realistic ball ight on the practice range or on some of the top courses in the world. In addition to golf, these simulators also include games like soccer, football, zombie dodgeball, and even more for those times where golf just isn’t hitting the spot.
How does your membership work?
We will have OG Memberships for our rst 50 founding members that include access to six private bays, the chipping and putting area, and the tness center 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Members can book a space up to seven days in advance and can bring up to three guests per booking. The OG Membership is a six-month commitment, with no initiation fee, and a monthly price that remains the same for the lifetime of the membership. Visit RozayGolf.com to sign up today.
What is the driving force behind your business concept?
We emphasize balance, quality and community. Rozay Golf
enables you to pursue your passion in a state-of-the-art facility while connecting to a network of like-minded individuals.
What is your best advice for someone who is considering doing business with you?
Come and see Rozay Golf - The Sandy Club to feel the quality and premium experience in person. Your ability to decide on membership will be very easy once you see and experience everything for yourself.
What is your favorite service your company o ers?
My favorite thing about Rozay Golf is the combination of incredible amenities that make for the best and most comprehensive indoor golf club experience around.
Anything else you would like our readers to know about your business?
Our priority is to create the best possible member experience and we are always open to feedback to help us continually improve that experience over time. The facility is also available to rent for events and special occasions.
Rozay Golf
9269 S. Village Shop Dr., Sandy rozaygolf.com
Instagram: @rozay_golf
Petapalooza at Wheeler Farm showcases hundreds of adoptable pets while introducing visitors to local animal-focused vendors and services. The two-day event will be held at Wheeler Historic Farm (6351 S. 900 East), Sept. 12-13. (File photo Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)
Petapalooza, seen here in 2023 (right) and 2024 (far right), is an annual event at Wheeler Farm showcasing hundreds of adoptable pets. (Shaun Delliskave and Cassie Goff/City Journals)
Thinking about getting a pet? Here’s what you should know first
By Holly Curby | hello@hollycurby.com
Bringing a pet into your life is more than just welcoming a furry companion—it’s a commitment that can enrich your home and heart in ways you may not expect. Whether you’re considering a playful pup, a curious cat, or even a serene fish, pet ownership is a journey of responsibility, patience and deep connection.
Before you adopt or purchase a pet, it’s important to think beyond the cuddles and cute photos. Pets rely on us for their care, safety and happiness—and that takes preparation.
Deanne Shepherd, former director of Marketing and Communications at the Humane Society of Utah, outlines three essential things to consider before bringing a new animal into your home:
1. Do Your Homework
Choosing the right pet starts with understanding your lifestyle. Ask yourself:
• What type of animal fits your living space and daily routine?
• What’s the animal’s lifespan, and are you ready for that long-term commitment?
• Can you afford the time and money required for food, veterinary care, and other needs?
• Are there pet restrictions where you live?
Don’t choose a pet based on appearance or breed trends. Instead, research the animal’s temperament, care requirements, and compatibility with your lifestyle. The more you know, the more likely you’ll find a pet who thrives in your care—and vice versa.
2. Explore Your Adoption and Purchase Options
If you’re buying from a breeder, make sure they’re reputable:
• Visit their facility.
• Meet the animal’s parents.
• Confirm that veterinary care is part of the breeder’s practices. However, adoption is another meaningful route. Shelters are full of animals looking for a second chance. Many are already vaccinated, spayed/ neutered and microchipped – making the transition easier for you and safer for them. Avoid buying pets from parking lots or unverified online sources, as these often come with health or behavioral risks due to poor breeding practices. Pet scams are common, so always verify the legitimacy of the seller or organization.
3. Be Ready for the Commitment
Routine is vital for pets. From feeding schedules to exercise and bathroom breaks, animals feel safest and behave
best when they know what to expect.
Think through:
• Who will be the main caretaker?
• How will children participate in pet care?
• How will your current pets adjust to a new addition?
Initial and ongoing costs include:
• Essentials: food, toys, collar, crate, litter box, grooming supplies.
• Medical: vaccinations, annual checkups, spay/neuter procedures.
• Extras: pet insurance, boarding, training, or emergency care.
A pet is a long-term investment—both financially and emotionally—but one that often pays off in joy and love. It’s not just about responsibilities—pets give back in powerful ways. According to Forbes, pet ownership can:
• Increase physical activity and outdoor time.
• Lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
• Help reduce feelings of loneliness and depression.
The companionship pets offer is often irreplaceable, especially during life’s more challenging moments. Sometimes, despite best efforts, a pet may not be the right fit. If challenges arise that you can’t manage, it’s okay to reach out to a shelter or rescue group for help rehoming the animal. It’s far more compassionate than letting the situation worsen—for either of you.
Looking for more tips? Check out Season 2, Episode 10 of Holly’s Highlights podcast for expert advice on pet nutrition, toxic human foods, lifespan expectations, the truth about pet insurance, training techniques, managing pet allergies and more.
Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Google Podcasts, or at www. hollycurby.com. Bringing a pet home is a beautiful decision—but only when done thoughtfully. With the right preparation, you and your new friend can enjoy a rewarding bond that lasts a lifetime.
Once considered farm animals, pigs are now finding homes as household pets.
Adopted dog finds comfort in forever home
Pet Photo Contest!
WINNER
Pet Name: Sam
Description: Sam’s the kind of cute that makes your heart melt—fluffy, soft, and effortlessly photogenic, with a blissful little smile that says he knows exactly how adorable he is. His luxurious coat and regal posture make him the definition of majestic charm. Human: Submitted by Dani Williams
2ND PLACE
Pet Name: Finn
Description: Finn loves all things snuggles and is as sassy as can be!
Human: Submitted by Mindy Martin Tamburrion
3RD PLACE
Pet Name: Dax a Doo
Description: Dax is our baby boy. We call him our BGB. Big Giant Boy. He’s a snuggle boy and best little brother to Xico.
Human: Submitted by Kristi Dancer
Hilltop Gospel Choir Fourth Annual Gospel Music Workshop
Gospel Music Workshop with Guest Clinician Isaac Cates
Sandy, Utah—July 2025 — Hilltop Gospel Choir announced that registration is open for the Fourth Annual Gospel Music Workshop to be held Friday, September 19 through Sunday, September 21, 2025, at Hilltop United Methodist Church in Sandy, UT. This year’s workshop will feature esteemed guest clinician Isaac Cates—an internationally recognized singer-songwriter, composer, and director of gospel ensembles Isaac Cates & Ordained and Affirmations. With a powerful reputation for musical excellence and ministry, Cates brings a wealth of experience as a conductor, vocal music educator, and international choral clinician, having worked in countries including Sweden, Norway, Italy, Spain, Australia, Kenya, Ireland, London, and Germany. Cates also serves as the Director of Music Outreach at the Church of the Resurrection in Kansas City and is a voting member of the Recording Academy (Grammys).
This workshop is an amazing opportunity for community members of all backgrounds to experience the joy, power, and beauty of Gospel and African American sacred music. Participants will not only develop their musical skills but also find connection, healing, and peace through singing and shared purpose. The theme for this year is inspired by Psalm 133:1 — “One Love! One Heart!”, reminding us of the unity and strength that come from lifting our voices together.
What: Gospel Music Workshop
Hosted by Hilltop Gospel Choir
WHEN:
Friday, September 19, 2025 - 6:30 pm-9:30 pm
Saturday, September 20, 2025 - 9:00 am-4:00 pm (lunch provided)
Sunday worship, September 21, 2025 10:30 am
Sunday concert, September 22, 2025 5:00 pm
WHERE: Hilltop United Methodist Church 985 E. 10600 S., Sandy, UT 84094
REGISTER: hilltopgospelchoir.org/gospel-music-workshop/
For more information: info@hilltopgospelchoir.org 801.571.5777
Canyons School District weighs school closures, new boundaries amid declining enrollment
Eight elementary schools are under evaluation, mostly in Sandy, with enrollment, building condition and programming guiding decisions; changes could begin as early as the 2026-27 school year.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
As student enrollment drops across the nation, school closures have already occurred in Utah districts such as Granite, Salt Lake, Alpine and Ogden. Now, Canyons School District is evaluating its own schools through a boundary and enrollment study.
The study aims to respond to shifting populations from new housing developments and declining birth rates. Its goal: better serve students while managing resources efficiently. Options under consideration include redrawing boundaries, consolidating schools or closing them. The last boundary change was in 2017.
Currently in a fact-finding phase, the study is being led by a subcommittee of the Long-Range Planning Committee. The subcommittee is expected to give options this fall to the Canyons Board of Education, who will make the final decision, with possible implementation as early as the 2026-27 school year.
The subcommittee, which began meeting in May, initially reviewed 10 elementary schools. Two — Copperview and Sprucewood — were quickly ruled out, according to board member Karen Pedersen, who serves on the subcommittee alongside board members Katie Dahle and Amber Shill.
The remaining eight schools under review are: Bella Vista (Cottonwood Heights), Brookwood, East Sandy, Granite, Oakdale, Park Lane, Quail Hollow and Willow Canyon (all in Sandy). No middle or high schools are included in this study.
Factors being evaluated include enrollment trends, building age and condition and capacity, as well as the current programs or special units such as dual language immersion, accelerated studies or special education.
“We notified every school on the list and on their boundaries because if we do change a boundary, it may affect them,” Pedersen said. “It doesn’t mean we’re going to do that — it just means all options are open. We’re wanting to straighten up all the little pockets we have so boundaries are more logical, and people will know if you go to this elementary, then you’re supposed to go to that middle school and
high school. That doesn’t mean the parents won’t have choice, because we are firm believers that parents have choice, they will be able to permit (petition to enroll at a non-boundary school, if space is available), no matter what this process does to whatever school they live near.”
Pedersen said if new boundaries are made, they will be thoughtful, considering natural boundaries and major streets are easy dividing places. She also said the subcommittee doesn’t want to split neighborhoods.
“We don’t want to pull students from one elementary to another and it then result in pulling students from a high school or middle school feeder,” she said. “We don’t want to have a domino effect. This is hard; we get that. We’re being transparent through this process and listening to what people say.”
The district wants schools to operate efficiently, aiming for around 550 students per school, with four classes per grade.
However, that’s not the current reality: Bella Vista had 219 students last year and is projected to shrink further. Still, it ranks highest in facility condition. Quail Hollow has the most students (366), while East Sandy and Oakdale are in greatest need of facility upgrades.
“Almost every building we’re looking at right now are 50 years old, and some have had some remodel work or updating. But around 50 plus years old, they take a lot of money to maintain,” Pedersen said.
“I’ve been here at least 10 years. Park Lane now has more students than Granite and Willow Canyon because they both shrunk faster than my school has shrunk,” Jeffery said. “My students walk; they’re neighborhood kids, with the only exception being a bus for our special ed students.”
That’s not the same for every school. But new state rules now require elementary students to live at least two miles from school to receive bus service, which also factors into decisions.
Nearby Ridgecrest Elementary was alerted about possible boundary changes.
“The writing has been on the wall for a while with declining enrollment at schools around us,” Sara Allen said, principal of Ridgecrest which neighbors Bella Vista and Oakdale. “We know it could impact us in some way. The Ridgecrest community trusts the decisions being made to take care of people and being smart with the money we have to serve students the best we can.”
Pedersen said the state legislature audits districts for financial efficiency.
According to the Canyons School District website, it costs roughly $1.2 million annually to run an elementary school, depending on staffing.
“To run the building for 200 kids costs the same as it does to run it for 400,” Pedersen said, who taught elementary school for 41 years. “If we keep it open, we’re stretching resources. In some schools we’re down to only one teacher per grade. That’s hard on kids and parents. It’s easier when you have a team; it’s betterquality teaching.”
Many of the schools under review are clustered in established Sandy neighborhoods where high housing costs and aging populations contribute to low enrollment.
“We need to take that in consideration. At some point, some older people who are staying in their homes and don’t have children in schools will move and families will come and it will turn over. We know this will change the look of the neighborhood,” Pedersen said.
According to “Education Week,” declining enrollment nationwide has been anticipated since 2012 and the pandemic — along with the end of COVID-19 relief funds — has forced districts to confront difficult decisions sooner than expected.
Park Lane Elementary, one of the schools being studied, is part of a cluster of six schools with falling enrollment. Principal Justin Jeffery said the school once had fewer students than nearby schools, but now it has more.
“We don’t know when they’re coming, but we want to use our money efficiently and the best for our students,” she said.
The impact of charter and private schools is also part of the analysis. Park Lane is near Beehive Academy, Waterford School and Grace Lutheran.
“At one point, eight of our students went to Beehive, but all eight of them came back,” Jeffery said. “I think a few opted to go there for middle school.”
Pedersen said student outcomes are central to any decision.
“When we combined (two lower-enrolled elementary schools) Bell View and Edgemont (into Glacier Hills in fall 2022), the result has been greater student progress and better test scores,” she said.
Pedersen said, according to district policy, if schools are combined or closed, affected teachers and principals will be placed elsewhere within the district and the district will work with other personnel who are displaced.
Parents and community members can provide input at canyonsdistrict.org/ boundary-proposal/feedback/ and are invited to attend Canyons Board of Education meetings and public hearings, once scheduled.
“I know nobody wants their schools closed down, never,” said Canyons Business Administrator and Chief Financial Officer Leon Wilcox, who sits on the committee. “I get it, and we get it. Every time I presented this (to the Board), we really wished we weren’t in this position.” l
Oakdale Elementary, seen here in 2020, is one of eight elementary schools that is being studied as part of a feasibility review. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Out with the old—Alta Canyon Sports Center closed Aug. 16
Alta Canyon Sports Center closes as new rec complex coming.
By Tom Haraldsen peri.k@thecityjournals.com
For long-time patrons of the Alta Canyon Sports Center, Aug. 16 marked the end of an era. The center closed its doors and construction began the following Monday on the
new Sandy Community and Recreation Center that will open in early 2027.
Sandy Mayor Mayor Monica Zoltanski’s last splash and cannonball contest was held on Aug 13, part of an eight-hour “Splash Bash” event that included free swimming, rubber duck relays, a cannonball contest and a raffle. Replacing it is a new recreation center that city officials say will feature a gymnasium and a field house, pickleball courts, expanded programming space for classes, cardio equipment, freeweights and machines, an indoor track, and amenities that
will serve all ages. The outdoor pool will return as well.
“It’s sad to see it go, but progress means changing things up a little,” said Sandy resident Scott Telford, who said he’s been coming to Alta Canyon for years. “It looks like the new center will have expanded options for users, so that’s a good thing. We just have to wait a while.”
The project will cost $23.5 million and is supported by Sandy City, along with the Larry H. & Gail Miller Family Foundation, and Salt Lake County’s Tourism, Recreation, Culture and Convention program. l
Experience the Difference at Cedarwood at Sandy
Cedarwood at Sandy o ers a warm and vibrant community for Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care. Located on six scenic acres beneath the stunning Wasatch Mountains, the campus includes independent living residences, assisted living suites and dedicated memory care apartments.
Residents enjoy peaceful outdoor spaces, including a beautifully landscaped courtyard and a charming gazebo, ideal for quiet moments or social gatherings. Inside, modern design meets cozy comfort with LED lighting, contemporary architecture and a welcoming
lobby featuring a crackling replace.
Cedarwood at Sandy Executive Director Tony Dressen has been with Kisco for more than four years, certi ed as an assisted living administrator.
What do you o er your clients?
The most common thing we hear about our community is that it feels like home. The people who work here and the people who live here truly make the di erence. We have luxury cottages, independent living apartments, assisted living services and a memory care unit to ensure the health and safety of your loved one. We’re also conveniently located, as Cedarwood is just 20 minutes from Salt Lake City.
Does your business solve a problem for your customers?
We help all people in their aging transition. Whether it’s early or late, there’s always a solution we can help with. Our center is also great for people over 55 looking for an all-
inclusive price, where they no longer have to cook or clean and want some social interaction.
How do potential clients normally choose between you and a competitor?
People usually go with how they feel and we aim for a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Our new independent-living cottages are one-of-a-kind. They feature large oor plans, full kitchens, neighborhood gatherings, singlestory convenience, one meal each day, wellness programs, bi-weekly housekeeping and fun outings. They’re brand new and we’re having a grand opening in October.
What is your best advice for someone who is considering doing business with you?
They should nd the best place that matches what they’re looking for. What needs do they
have at this stage in life? What wants do they have? How can we help make their lives better? Call and arrange a tour to see the beautiful living options and visit the grounds. We’re here to answer any questions you may have.
Anything else you would like our readers to know about your business?
We love our residents! They love it here. Our dining is more than just food; it’s an experience. At Cedarwood of Sandy, our chefs embrace dining trends to create avorful and healthy meals. They switch up the menu on a regular basis and adhere to the highest of dining standards.
Kisco’s award winning Life Enrichment activities program promotes physical, mental and spiritual wellness. It’s a program that encourages community and creates a ful lling lifestyle.
Cedarwood at Sandy: A Kisco Lifestyle Community 10970 S. 700 East | 801-917-6572
Instagram @cedarwoodatsandy
Artist rendering of the new center’s exterior. (Image courtesy of Sandy City)
Artist rendering of the new center’s exterior. (Image courtesy of Sandy City)
Real jobs, real talk: Career days connect kids to future professions
Hundreds of students get a taste of future careers through hands-on lessons, advice and real-world insights from community professionals
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Some
Lone Peak Elementary students might find themselves rubbing the quarter Drew Pearson handed out, remembering how he once counted 4,000 of them from his car wash change machine before switching to mobile phone tap payments.
Or perhaps they’re thinking about how he keeps hot water flowing through the tubes yearround to stop it from freezing when the temperature drops to 32 degrees.
“It’s important to provide quality service people expect and to expect to meet challenges in any job,” said the Classy Chassy car wash owner in Cottonwood Heights to the students during their career day. “There may always be rude people and malfunctions in a job, but it’s how you approach it and respond to it that counts.”
Pearson was one of hundreds of professionals who visited local elementary schools this past year for career day presentations. Speakers shared details about their educational paths, how school subjects apply to their work,
GRIEF HAS NO TIMELINE
the pros and cons of their careers and some of the exciting parts of their jobs. Career fields ranged from water quality and veterinary science to law enforcement, public transit, music and fitness.
Entrepreneur Cody Coonradt, who develops healthcare software, encouraged students to examine the products they use and ask themselves what’s missing, and how they might fill that gap.
“When looking at product management, we need to determine what we’re going to build and how we’re going to build it and what we’re going to charge, not just what it will look like,” he said. “While developing it, we also need to look at ‘are we going the right direction? Do we have the right people? Do we have enough money?’ Do not follow your passion, but rather, follow your curiosity. Passion comes from experience, but curiosity is infinite. Be patient.”
Third-grader Enzo Van Wangower said he learned the importance of staying curious.
“If I’m curious and it’s fun, I should try to do it,” he said.
His classmate Duyen Huynh added: “You’ll never know what you can do to help people, like he is with doctors and health care.”
At Glacier Hills Elementary, around 25 professionals participated. Among them was BMW sales manager Ben Beer, who motivated students to aim high now so they’re ready later.
“Try to be the best at everything you do
got to learn how cool the body is and how it works,” she told them. “Nurses are needed in operating rooms to helicopters on emergencies. It’s a lot of hard work, but it’s rewarding to help someone in need.”
In a nearby classroom, Mac McCann of Wildworks explained how it takes 30 images to make just one minute of animation. He said how he often records himself moving to use as a reference for character motion.
“To be an animator, you have to make things look believable,” he told students. “We can always get better. If you like to draw a lot, this could be a good career for you – taking the things you draw and bringing them to life.”
right now and you’ll be ready to do it when you have a job,” he said.
He also answered students’ questions about car manufacturing — how one factory may produce engines and transmissions while another focuses on dashboards. He said white has long been the most popular car color, however, new designs inspired by the aurora borealis are growing in popularity.
At Midvale Elementary, school nurse Tara Aka showed students how to take their blood pressure, wrap their arms with ace bandages and listen to their heartbeats.
“As a nurse, I earned my bachelor’s degree, learned a lot of math and science and
Teacher Jill Oaks emphasized career days are important for expanding students’ understanding of the working world.
“They’re learning about the community, whether it’s a chef at Outback Steakhouse or a Coke distributor; they’re learning that people in IT not only help set up a computer, but they solve problems,” she said. “We want our students to actively listen, learn the importance of reading, writing, math and things they’re learning and how it applies to their futures. They can also learn why they need to be responsible and on time, skills that will help them the rest of their lives. We’ll be writing thank-you notes about the impact these people have made to have our students think big and start developing skills now to reach their dreams.” l
Midvale Elementary students learned how to splint an arm and tried it out on a classmate after listening to a career talk about nursing. (Julie Slama/ City Journals)
Passing the baton at Jordan High and other Canyons School District schools
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Jordan High’s new principal, Kelcey Kemp, is no stranger to the school.
He served as assistant principal since 2022 and was an administrative intern during the 2012–13 school year. Now stepping into his first principal role, Kemp succeeds Bruce Eschler, who accepted a district-level position in Murray School District.
“I’m excited to get in and get to doing things,” Kemp said. “We’re really in a good trajectory. I thought Bruce did a fantastic job of running a school, pushing academics, urging students to be better and put themselves out there. I want to follow on that and increase rigor in the classrooms, helping them rise to the challenge. If we challenge them, they will rise to the occasion.”
His appointment is part of a wider administrative shuffle across Canyons School District schools this fall.
Kemp, who also served at Hillcrest, Corner Canyon and Alta high schools, began his education career teaching physical education and health at Brighton High and coaching baseball.
A former player, Kemp has coached and
officiated at tournament trips to Cooperstown, New York, home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame. One of his retirement goals is to visit every Major League ballpark.
“I love baseball. I loved playing and I respected my coaches. I learned a lot of life lessons from baseball. Now, I’m a baseball fan,” said the current competitive pickle baller.
Kemp earned his master’s in educational leadership from Southern Utah University and
has been in education for 20 years.
“It allowed me to have more of an impact on what happens with students in schools and teachers and improve instruction and enhance school culture. I love the high school experience. I love the extracurricular activities, supporting students and all their sports and clubs and things they do,” he said, noting Jordan has strong programs in many areas including performing arts, athletics, esports, debate and the
Naval cadet program.
His approach to leadership is guided by a simple question: “Is it good for kids?”
“If it’s good for kids, we’re going to do it. If something we’re trying isn’t working, we’re going to find out why it isn’t working. Can we make it work? If we can make it work, we will. If we can’t, then we’ll scrap it and start again,” he said.
Kemp plans to further integrate AVID strategies throughout the school, with an emphasis on WICOR (Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, Organization, Reading) classroom practices.
“We’re an AVID school, so we’re jumping even more into AVID with everything we do. Our school goals are going to be based around WICOR strategies in the classroom,” he said. “I want students to fail upward. They need to fail in a positive way. We learn by failing so they need to be in an environment where they’re safe to fail so they can learn.”
That culture includes setting expectations for timeliness and readiness to learn.
“We’re looking to incentivize being on time and having teachers set starters in the classroom. I want students to think, ‘if I’m not there on time, I might miss something that’s really important.’ We don’t want students wandering the halls with a bathroom pass, but rather thinking, ‘I don’t know if I have time to go to the bathroom because this is good stuff we’re
New Jordan High Principal Kelcey Kemp confers with school registrar and student government adviser Leslie McAffee about upcoming school calendar events. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
learning. I don’t want to miss out,’” he said.
Kemp also wants families engaged.
“I would love to have more parent nights where we just invite parents to the school and talk about what it’s like being in high school right now. I think it would be helpful. Then open it to a Q and A where they come in, we teach them something, maybe we go over this policy, and then they get to ask questions,” he said.
Kemp knows what it’s like to attend a legacy school. He graduated from the 117-yearold Bingham High — and thought many of his family did until his mother informed him that his grandma is a Beetdigger graduate and his dad said his grandfather also attended the 118-year-old Jordan.
“I thought it was cool that I have Jordan High School history. I want to continue to build up and continue to honor the legacy of Jordan High School. The best part of Jordan is the kids, the community, the people I work with; it’s fun to be able to work where two of my six kids are students — and play baseball,” he said.
Other principal appointments include Dan Ashbridge, Copperview Elementary; Amy Sandgren, East Midvale Elementary; Deidre Walbeck, East Sandy Elementary; Matt Nelson, Jordan Valley; Stacey Nofsinger, Life Skills Academy; Colleen Smith, Oakdale Elementary; Kimberly Ranney, Oak Hollow Elementary; and Ashley Lennox, Sprucewood Elementary.
Elementary assistant principal appointments include Wesley Morgan to Alta View Elementary; Sara Caldwell, Altara Elemen-
tary; Lynsey Grant, Butler Elementary; Rebecca Bass, Draper Elementary; Scott Taylor, Crescent Elementary; Samantha Harris, Glacier Hills Elementary; Rachel Ostvig, Lone Peak Elementary; Amy Brown, Midvale Elementary; Noemi Jones, Midvalley Elementary; BJ Weller, Park Lane Elementary; Mike Larsen, Peruvian Park Elementary; Crystal Connors, Ridgecrest Elementary; Anna Livingston, Sprucewood Elementary; Penny Armour, Sunrise Elementary; Ivie Erickson, Sunrise Elementary; Amber Rock, Willow Springs Elementary.
Secondary assistant principal appointments include Alisha Wheeler, Albion Middle; Mark Mitchell, Alta High; Taylor Andersen, Brighton High; Katie Campbell, Corner Canyon High; Sally Williams, Corner Canyon High; Kory Crockett, Draper Park Middle; Tonya Rauch, Indian Hills Middle; Sarah Thomas, Jordan High; Jeffrey Honsvick, Life Skills Academy and Jordan Valley; Amanda Parker, Mt. Jordan Middle; Karlie Aardema, Union Middle; and Amber Tuckett to a yet-to-be named school.
Other appointments include Reid Newey as the director of the district’s new innovation center; Heather Baird hired as a special education administrator; Stephanie Petersen as a special education early childhood administrator; Kelsey Gile, East Sandy Elementary intern assistant principal; Melissa Baker, Hillcrest High intern assistant principal; and Melissa Wilkes, Oak Hollow Elementary intern assistant principal. l
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Communities unite at Sandy’s Night Out Against Crime
Several schools started the year with new leadership as part of a district-wide shift in administration.
By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com
The annual Night Out Against Crime in Sandy brought the community together to build unified neighborhoods and to educate residents about public safety. It was a chance for neighbors to meet police officers and local leaders, learn crime-prevention tips and enjoy a family-friendly night dedicated to making Sandy a safer place to live.
Held at Amphitheater Park (1245 E. 9400 South) on Monday, Aug. 4, the event featured the Sandy City Police Department, police vehicle displays, yard games, food trucks, crime prevention booths, safety information, a K9 demonstration and photo props. Attendees learned about Neighborhood Watch programs and visited with members of the Sandy City Police Department.
The National Night Out Against Crime is meant to encourage local participation when it comes to raising awareness about illegal behavior, drug prevention, building neighborhood unity and standing together against crime. For more information about the national program, visit natw.org. l
Motorcycle officers with the Sandy City Police Department visit with residents interested in the division. (Justin Adams/Sandy City)
A K9 demonstration held by the Sandy City Police Department displayed the K9 officer’s skills at Amphitheater Park. (Justin Adams/Sandy City)
Attendees at the Night Out Against Crime at Amphitheater Park in Sandy visit with law enforcement and safety organizations. (Justin Adams/Sandy City)
Residents visit with McGruff the Crime Dog during Sandy’s Night Out Against Crime. (Photo courtesy Sandy City)
Event attendees take a picture at a photo prop during Sandy’s Night Out Against Crime. (Photo courtesy Sandy City)
Eager Jordan girls soccer team off to strong start
trust one another on the field and enjoy competing together.
By Josh McFadden
Following a 10-8 season a year ago, the Jordan girls soccer team is working hard to improve its fortunes this time around.
So far, so good.
Jordan won its first three games this season, two of them by three or more goals. The Beetdiggers don’t have a specific record in mind, but head coach Justin Jahnke is confident that the girls will give it their all each time they step onto the field.
“My goals align with the girls’ goals: learn, grow, have fun,” Jahnke said. “Our expectations are the same also: always give our 100% effort. Everyone’s 100% might look different, but we’re going to trust that everyone on the team is putting the team first.”
“The coaching staff and our girls are very excited to start our season,” he said. “This is the most connected group I’ve felt so far since I took over. You can feel that the girls like playing soccer together, and they talk to each other constantly—on the field, off the field and even when I’m trying to coach.”
Though the Beetdiggers got the 2025 campaign off on the right foot this season, Jahnke knows there will be some bumps in the road and times when the girls will need to be resilient and mentally tough. He hopes the players won’t get too low after a setback or too high after success.
Junior goalkeeper June Joseph is someone Jahnke is counting on to be an example on and off the field. She was a second-team All-State and first-team All-Region performer last season. Joseph posted eight shutouts in the regular season in 2024. She plays for Wasatch SC throughout the year and is a multi-sport player at Jordan, having been on the girls basketball team last winter.
“[Joseph] is a pure leader,” Jahnke said. “She was voted a captain as a sophomore, and our girls really respond to her leadership.”
we feel like anything can happen.”
Senior defender Kyrie Evans is another player to watch for Jordan this season. The four-year varsity player earned time as a freshman and has been a fixture in the starting lineup since her sophomore year. She is a team leader and enjoys success in another sport at Jordan: track and field. Her club team is the Sandy-based Blue Knights Soccer Club.
Emberly Camacho, just a sophomore, excels in the midfield. She started last season as a freshman and was second-team All-Region. She also paced the Beetdiggers in assists a season ago. Her club team is Sparta 2010 Premier.
“[Camacho] is a silent worker,” Jahnke said. “She matches that work ethic with an immense talent.”
Jahnke admires the girls for their hard work and dedication, not only to soccer but to academics and all the challenges they face in life. One of his biggest objectives is to make sure the girls are mentally tough and coping with any struggles they have.
“We will be looking to constantly grow our resiliency,” he said. “Our girls deal with so much during the season: academic pressure to succeed, social pressure to still have a life while going to school and playing soccer, and, of course, in-season pressure to perform. We’ve enlisted a former assistant coach of mine to help us with that, Aubrie Van Leeuwen. She was on staff with me my first year and has been aweThe Jordan girls soccer team started the season with three wins and is looking to accomplish big things in 2025.
Jordan won its first game of the season 1-0 at Logan on Aug. 5. It followed this shutout with a 5-2 win at Bear River and a 7-0 blowout over Taylorsville in the home opener. It has been evident to Jahnke that the girls have a close bond,
“To accomplish team goals and make the season a success, we need to learn from wins and losses equally, using them as a growth opportunity and not taking anything for granted,” Jahnke said. “There are numerous moments within a match, as well as before and after a match; we will try to live in the moment and not let it be too big for us.”
The Beetdiggers are a senior-laden team, which bodes well for leadership and other intangible qualities that Jahnke relies on. Jordan has other players with experi ence playing at a high level.
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Another sophomore, Sydney Vessey, is one of the team’s top offensive players. The forward had 10 goals as a freshman
Judge Memorial, Juan Diego, Highland and East. Park City, last year’s region champion and a state quarterfinalist, will once again be the team to beat in Region 10, Jahnke said. Another tough test will be Murray, which beat Jordan once out of two tries last season, not
to mention Cottonwood, which took Jordan to double overtime a year ago.
“We’re excited for the challenge,” Jahnke said.
Jordan wraps up the regular season Oct. 3 at home against Murray. Jahnke
loves the way his team is playing and believes the girls are capable of great things this season. He loves coaching this group and appreciates everything the girls do for one another and the team.
“I have coached this group since they
MEET DR. HARARAH, M.D.
were freshmen, and they’ve stayed together all four years,” he said. “Along with that, we have gained some players who have really fit in with this bunch. The girls know how to be inclusive and have fun, but they also know when it’s time to lock in and focus.” l
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The Jordan girls soccer team won its first three games of the season and looks to contend for the Region 10 title. (Photo courtesy Justin Jahnke.)
Bridging classrooms: How art and music unite students across abilities
A growing district initiative brings students with disabilities into general education elementary arts and music classes.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
WhenJordan Valley fourth-grader
Ava Baird and third-grader Markus Heckman stepped off the school bus at Bella Vista Elementary, their faces lit up with excitement.
They’re part of an inclusive arts program that brings Jordan Valley students with severe and profound disabilities into Beverley Taylor Sorenson arts classes at local Canyons School District elementary schools.
Bella Vista BTS teacher Christy Delaney was prepared for Ava and Markus, with two fourth-grade peer helpers ready to assist—or simply be buddies. The lessons are adaptive, ensuring every student can participate.
“There have been other times where some students will use electric scissors to cut things, so Bella Vista students get to learn too about adaptive tools maybe they’re not exposed to and they love to use them too,” Delaney said.
Earlier in the program, students built robots using recycled materials. On this day, they were painting them.
Markus, joined by Bella Vista fourth-graders Paetyn Mills and Beckham Luthi, chose red, white and blue for their robot.
“Markus suggested those colors,” Beckham said about his nonverbal buddy. “He points at what he wants or shows us with symbols and then we do it together. He has a funny sense of humor.”
Paetyn added, “I like having him here; I’m experiencing art in a different way than I would have.”
Delaney said teamwork and collaboration were part of the lesson.
“We’re working on interpersonal rela-
tionships between the students, how they can listen to somebody else’s ideas, and take everyone’s input to make a decision. Sometimes that’s a struggle sometimes in fourth grade,” she said.
The partnership began in 2017 through the initiative of Jordan Valley BTS teacher Jonathan Hale, who co-designs and co-teaches the lessons. After a pause during the pandemic, the program was revitalized and expanded.
“The BTS program offered research collaboration with the University of Utah and helped fund it,” he said. “Our research
is learning how to adapt and use art to help kids socialize. It’s important these Jordan Valley students get exposure to their peers, and they do things they typically wouldn’t do at their school.”
Originally piloted at Sprucewood Elementary with select students, the program now is offered to all Jordan Valley students across several elementary schools. Groups participate in art or music classes that match their grade level — first grade at Willow Springs, third and fourth at Bella Vista, fifth at Draper, and music for fifth grade at Midvalley.
“We only take a couple students at a time to each school, but the same kids go to the same school so they’re part of the art or music class for the year,” Hale said.
The results have been powerful.
“At another elementary, Jordan Valley students are engaged in art for 45 minutes. Typically, at our school, we get their attention for only five to 10 minutes,” Hale said. “Here, they all look at students and their eyes light up; we don’t ever see that at our school.”
At one school, when asked who wanted to walk their Jordan Valley peers to the bus, students eagerly volunteered.
“As they were walking down together, our kids were elated. They had friends around them; I’ve never seen them that happy,” Hale said.l
Jordan Valley third-grader Markus Heckman paints alongside Bella Vista students Beckham Luthi and Paetyn Mills in an inclusive arts program. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Back to school with big changes
grid cannot attach, and those are the two things we need in place for the fire marshall (sic) to allow occupancy.”
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
On Aug. 1, some Eastmont Middle School families were caught off guard after learning students would begin the school year with remote learning, a plan expected to remain in place at least through Labor Day.
The message explained the reason for the delay: “Due to construction delays, Eastmont Middle won’t be ready in time for the start of school. Some key safety and instructional items – such as ceiling tiles, beams, working restrooms, drinking fountains, schoolwide Wi-Fi, projectors and cafeteria access — are not yet in place. Simply put, the renovation project is not completed to the point that it would be safe for our students to return to the building.”
A follow-up notification provided more details which arose the previous week: “Two walls that the structural engineers deemed were not load bearing actually were. The walls are currently being supported by 4x4 beams until the metal beams arrive. Without these in place, the ceiling
The email from the school’s administrative team also included information on Chromebook pickup and available tech support during remote learning. In addition, a follow-up announcement from the Canyons School District noted grab-and-go breakfasts and lunches would be provided for students, and portions of the school’s lower level would be opened to those without internet access at home.
Eastmont, which is undergoing a $13 million renovation, is one of several projects receiving upgrades throughout Canyons School District. More than $45 million in upgrades are currently being carried out, with about $21 million allocated specifically for renovation projects at Eastmont Middle and Corner Canyon and Hillcrest high schools.
The funding comes from a lease-revenue bond authorized by the Canyons Board of Education. About $24 million is earmarked for upgrades at Jordan High (see separate article).
“We borrowed the money back in April of ’24, about 15 months ago, and we’ve been doing improvements since,” Canyons Business Administrator and Chief Financial Officer Leon Wilcox said.
Eastmont Middle School
Eastmont’s renovation began last year with the installation of a new roof and a retention pond designed to prevent future flooding on the campus. The project includes updated restrooms, and refreshed classrooms featuring new carpet, paint and lighting.
Ongoing plans for the library include a redesign which incorporates space from the old computer lab, with walls being removed to create a larger area. It also includes new shelving, replacing outdated bubble glass with clear panes.
Hallways, the cafeteria, locker rooms and the gym are receiving new flooring, and an elevator is being installed in the decades-old building.
“It’s going to look like a whole new school on the inside,” Wilcox said.
Principal Stacy Kurtzhals said the renovation uncovered some quirky surprises; when some lockers were removed, “treasures” of dated candy and snack bags were revealed behind them.
“I’m looking forward to the building looking as good as the teaching and education that happens there,” she said.
Corner Canyon High
At Corner Canyon High School, about $13 million is being invested in upgrades. The work began with the installation of a secure entry vestibule and new artificial turf
for the baseball and softball fields.
A new turf soccer field is expected to be completed in time for the fall season, and a new practice field for soccer and lacrosse is currently under construction. By the end of the year, the school’s new field house is slated to open, complete with an indoor practice football field and a weight room.
Hillcrest High
Hillcrest High’s $5.5 million in enhancements includes an expansion of the track from six to eight lanes. The school’s football and lacrosse field is being upgraded with new artificial turf and a new scoreboard is in place for the start of the school year.
Additional facility improvements across the district:
• Brighton High: A new teen center featuring washers, dryers, showers and a food pantry is set to open this fall. A new employee daycare facility is also on the way.
• Indian Hills Middle: Construction is underway on a new choir room and an expanded band room.
• Albion Middle: The school’s kiva area is scheduled for updates this fall.
• Sandy Elementary: New carpeting will be installed. l
In late July, crews worked on the new turf at Hillcrest High’s Schick Stadium. (Julie Slama/City Journal)
It’sbarely September and social media pages are already flooded with autumn recipes, pumpkin hacks and tips on how to dress for sweater weather. For Utah, sweater weather in September is just dumb because it’s still 90 degrees in the shade. Wear a cute, fall pullover at your own risk.
Instagram influencers suffer from September insanity, bizarrely excited to roam through corn mazes (nature’s escape room), decorate porches with scratchy hay bales and crooked scarecrows, and stage family photo shoots at apple orchards with everyone grumpily dressed in red and black flannel.
In September, you’re legally required to wear a wool scarf when ordering at Starbucks, where each drink has a dash of cinnamon. Pumpkin spice is everywhere, from pancakes to deodorant, popping up out of nowhere like political yard signs and herpes.
These aren’t necessarily bad things. I love me a plaid shirt and fresh-baked apple crisp, but until Monday, Sept. 22, at 12:19 p.m. (MDT), it’s still summer and I will behave accordingly.
Here’s what shouldn’t happen before Sept 22: high school sports, pumpkin patches, hay rides, the NFL. None of those are summer activities. Nada.
Even if the temperature drops to 45 degrees by mid-September (which it won’t), I’ll still wear flip-flops and gym shorts as
Stop Pretending it’s Autumn
my casual work outfit. Well, flip-flops only if I’m going somewhere fancy, like Dollar Tree. I might as well not own shoes during the summer.
After going barefoot since April, my feet have reached the hardened leather stage where I could safely walk across a lava flow. My granddaughter recently poked my heel and asked, “What happened to you?” I tried to explain the development of callouses due to traversing 110-degree asphalt with no shoes, but she’d already turned her attention back to Roblox.
Even Mother Nature betrays me as the Wasatch Mountains start to turn a brilliant red, orange and gold. Sunset gets earlier each night, disappearing a little bit at a time, like when I’m trying to sneak out of a networking event. The air takes on a distinctly “autumn” glow, but that might be arsenic floating over from the Great Salt Lake. Living in Utah is exciting.
Farmers’ markets are still open, but
the options quickly turn from juicy, sweet peaches to…umm…squash? Who eats squash? Raccoons? Hardened criminals? I use pumpkin for cookies, bread and carving, but no one actually EATS pumpkin. That’s like saying someone actually eats rhubarb. I don’t have time for your nonsense.
One good thing about September is that Michaels no longer sells Halloween items (which they started promoting in May) but is now decked out for Christmas.
Believe it or not, I love fall, but only when seasonally appropriate. Summer flies by, so I must savor every sunny moment before Salt Lake sinks into six months of cold,
gray darkness, like Persephone descending to the Underworld.
On the first day of autumn (Sept. 22, not Sept. 1), I’ll drape fall garlands around the kitchen, light apple-scented candles, put on cozy socks (an easy transition from being barefoot) and make a big pot of stew that no one will eat because it has onions.
Within a few weeks, my social media pages will display photos of squirrels gathering nuts, my grandkids bickering at a harvest festival, Tom refusing to eat apple cider donuts and my fire-orange pedicure hidden inside a cute pair of fall boots. But only in appropriate autumnal timing.
