School creates safe haven for students to recharge Page 4
awards Educators recognized by Jordan School District Page 14
South Jordan growth and development excites Mayor Dawn Ramsey
By Tom Haraldsen | t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com
The mayor of South Jordan is excited and proud of new developments in her community, and very optimistic about the city’s future.
Dawn Ramsey moved to South Jordan 21 years ago, and she had no idea what the next two decades would bring to the community. Now as the city’s mayor, she has spearheaded a time of rapid development while still striving to maintain the community’s charm and history.
“We moved to the furthest west area that was even developed,” she recalled. “There was nothing around us, and almost no traffic signals between our house and Redwood Road. It was all open fields. To see what’s grown up all around us is nothing short of incredible.”
It’s safe to say that 2025 has been an exciting year thus far for South Jordan. The Larry H. Miller Organization kicked off what Ramsey said is “their season of openings” with The
Ballpark at America First Square when the Salt Lake Bees Triple A baseball team moved to the new stadium in early April. LHM is also building a new Megaplex entertainment center adjacent to the ballpark that will include movie theatres, a bowling alley and an amphitheater near the site, and starting in November, part of that will be converted to an ice skating rink. A high-rise housing development is being built behind the right field boundary of the stadium, and several restaurants and retail shops will be coming to the area.
The Utah Transit Authority created a new TRAX stop for its redline trains at the site as well. It opened in early April. And a new Gene Fullmer Recreation Center celebrated its open-
Continued page 8
The city’s partnership with the Bees and the Larry H. Miller organization are part of the catalyst leading to growth and development in the city. (Photo courtesy South Jordan City)
Enjoy a Safe, Healthy, Active Summer
By Vincent Giron, DO
With summer here and everyone wanting to spend time outdoors and to be more active, there are four important health and safety tips that I recommend for all age groups and activity levels.
1. Stay hydrated. The No. 1 priority for summer safety is proper hydration before and after activity. Drinking lots of water and reducing the amount of caffeinated drinks is crucial for hydration. Adding electrolytes such as sports drinks is also helpful while avoiding excess sugar. Zero sugar or diet electrolyte sports drinks and hydration packs are an easy way to do this.
2. Use sunscreen. Sunscreen is crucial not only for skin health but can help with hydration as well. Sunburns put you at higher risk for dehydration. Applying sunscreen and reapplying frequently especially while swimming, playing sports, and hiking keeps your skin healthy and protected. Being conscientious about sun exposure helps prevent skin cancer, wrinkles, skin
discolorations and will help to keep your skin looking and feeling young.
3. Wear a helmet. Summer is a great time to go outdoors riding bikes, scooters and other fun activities while getting exercise. But anytime we bike, scoot, skate or participate in any riding activity, it is imperative to wear a helmet. No matter how short your ride is, you need to protect your brain. It only takes one fall or accident to cause permanent brain damage or life-long disability.
4. Stretch. People of all ages and activity levels from youth sports to the weekend warrior need to be stretching before and after activity. In the summer it is easy to skip the warm-up when exercising or playing sports because the warmer temperatures make us feel ready to go; however our muscles are still tight and are just as prone to injury as in the colder months. Taking the time to warm up by gradually stretching our muscles not only helps prevent injury but promotes muscle building and endurance. Stretching is especially im-
portant for elderly individuals. Stretching also helps reduce aches and pains as well as improve mobility and stability, which decrease the risk of falls.
Exercise is important for all ages. Summer is a great time to increase your level of activity. Exercise, especially outdoors, promotes physical as well as mental health and wellbeing. I hope we can all get outside, spend time with family and friends, and most of all, stay safe and healthy!
Dr. Vincent Giron is a CommonSpirit Health family medicine physician specializing in sports medicine. He is accepting new patients. His clinic is located at CommonSpirit Primary Care & Sports Medicine West Valley at 3336 S. 4155 W., Ste. 102 in West Valley. Phone:801-964-3925. He accepts most insurances.
Learn more about the services, care providers and missiondriven work of the Holy Cross hospitals and CommonSpirit Health at www.holycrossutah.org.
At CommonSpirit Health, we make the healing presence of God known in our world by improving the health of the people we serve, especially those who are vulnerable, while we advance social justice for all.
minutes count, count on our
care. Get to know us before you need us.
When you need emergency care fast, the closest emergency room is a smart thing to know. You never know the level of care you’ll need when an emergency happens and choosing the right ER can make all the difference. And a hospital ER comes with the confidence of additional services right on-site.
Congratulations to CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley for receiving the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade-A Accreditation for the fourth consecutive time. Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grades are determined based on a rigorous assessment of various safety measures.
Find emergency care close to you at mountain.commonspirit.org.
1-303-673-8166 (TTY: 711).
SPONSORED CONTENT
Dr. Vincent Giron, DO CommonSpirit Primary Care & Sports Medicine West Valley
The Pineapple Room: A safe haven for students to recharge and refocus
Aspen Elementary’s calm down corner supports students’ emotional and mental health.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
I
n the corner of Amanda Rasmussen’s classroom, Rocco, a weighted alligator, watches over students who are engaging with puzzles, STEM-building kits, books, sensory tactile squares of various textures, blankets and other fidgets, while sitting on a rug that reads, “Dream Big.”
Her Aspen Elementary classroom, known as the Pineapple Room for its pineapple decor, serves as a haven where students can retreat to unwind, whether they’re feeling anxious about a class assignment or need to calm down after a stressful moment.
“We have seen an increase of emotional dysregulation and behavior problems nationwide and in Jordan School District, we want to support these students,” Rasmussen said, who teaches special education. “I wanted a place where students could come and that there would be no judgment. It would be safe. They could take time to regulate those emotions.”
With grants from the Jordan Education Foundation, Rasmussen set up a calm-down corner, primarily used by special education students and those with individualized education plans. However, it, along with the school’s wellness room, is accessible to all students.
The calm-down corner is often used when teachers notice a student needs a break or when the students themselves recognize they need one. It is also used by students who have scheduled breaks.
“Usually, it’s something they need for anxiety, or transitions might be hard for them. Maybe they struggle in math, and that makes them anxious, so we give them
a break, either right before or right after math,” Rasmussen said.
Students set a timer, typically under 10 minutes, when they enter the calm-down corner. A sign on the wall suggests ways to calm down, such as deep breathing, stretching or imagining their favorite place.
“A lot of students know what to do when they come here. When they come in, I'll say hi and remind them to set the timers. We usually have five adults in this room and can remind them how much time they have left,” she said. “If they’re too emotionally distraught and can’t regulate themselves independently, we teach them. This space has a lot of tools to be able to regulate those emotions before going back to their classroom.”
Fourth-grade teacher Jon Black said teachers understand their students and can offer accommodations or introduce flexibility into their lessons when needed.
“However, every class probably has one or two kids that would benefit from it (calm down corner), especially the classes with younger students who are learning how to manage behaviors and emotions,” he added.
Rasmussen estimates four students use the calm down corner daily.
“This last week, I had one student who used it and he was emotionally dysregulated; something had happened at school, but he was anxious about something at home. Two others, their teachers had sent them down for a 10-minute break. The fourth one was a student who had a scheduled break,” she said. “Sometimes the students just need a break to just chill for a second and want to talk about it. A lot of times the students will take a nap. We know if students are tired they're not going to learn anyway, so we might as well give them a little bit of some sleep.”
Rasmussen collaborates to teach students self-regulation techniques with the school’s counselor April Erickson, psychologist Ling Chu and Andrew Fuchs, who oversees the wellness room. Students are taught to identify their emotions, from a high red zone to a calm green zone.
“We've incorporated finger breathing where they trace your fingers as you are breathing or naming five senses, as they look around the room as de-escalation strategies. Sometimes we’re able to talk them through, but a lot of these kids can't communicate exactly what's going on, so we focus on calming them before trying to problem solve what the situation is,” she said. “Ninety percent of the school is emotionally regulated so we mostly know
the students who come and they know us. It’s a place where they feel comfortable and we’ve built this trust with them.”
While most Jordan schools have wellness rooms, Rasmussen isn’t sure how many have dedicated calm-down corners.
In her 12 years of teaching, including four at Aspen, Rasmussen advocates for her special education students.
“A lot of the time, they can't advocate for themselves, and they need somebody to advocate for them. They need an environment where they feel safe and it’s non-judgmental, so creating an environment that is welcoming is awesome,” she said. “The calm down corner has made a huge difference; it’s a place where we can support each other.” l
The South Jordan Journal is a monthly publication distributed directly to residents via the USPS as well as locations throughout South Jordan.
For information about distribution please email hello@thecityjournals.com or call our offices. Rack locations are also available on our website. The views and opinions expressed in display advertisements do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions held by Loyal Perch Media or the City Journals. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the owner. © 2019 Loyal Perch Media, Inc.
Bryan Scott | bryan.s@thecityjournals.com EDITOR
Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com
ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES
Mieka Sawatzki | mieka.s@thecityjournals.com
Lindsay Andreasen | lindsay.a@thecityjournals.com
Jason Corbridge | jason.c@thecityjournals.com
Ryan Casper | ryan.c@thecityjournals.com
Marc Davis | marc.d@thecityjournals.com
Rice | lydia.r@thecityjournals.com 385-557-1022 Rack
South 500 West, Suite 205
UT 84070 PHONE: 801-254-5974
SOUTH JORDAN TEAM
Aspen Elementary offers a calm down corner where students can go to de-escalate and regulate their emotions. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Salt Lake County
801-840-4000
801-799-3000
DATES FOR LEGAL DISCHARGE
*If you live in a restricted area, it is illegal to discharge fireworks anytime
TIMES
LEGAL
*On July 4 & July 24 time of discharge is extended to 12:00 midnight
WIGHTMAN LEGAL
Understanding and protecting the Oquirrh Mountains
The overlooked peaks on the valley’s west side are being affected by growth.
By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournal.com
Framing
the Salt Lake Valley’s west side, the Oquirrh Mountains often take a back seat to the more famous Wasatch peaks on the east. Steeped in a rich history of industry, most people associate the 30-mile-long mountain range with the Bingham Canyon Mine, the deepest open-pit mine on the planet.
As development approaches the Oquirrhs (a Goshute word meaning “wooded mountain,”) more people are discovering the recreation opportunities in those canyons, which some say creates an urgent need to address growth and preservation. A group of University of Utah researchers studied the history, environmental challenges and future of the Oquirrh Mountains, and presented their findings on Earth Day.
Rebekah Wightman, J.D.
Rebekah Wightman, J.D. is an experienced Estate Planning and Probate attorney. She takes pride in serving her clients and providing them a pleasant present and a peaceful future. Rebekah’s fun personality and commitment to her clients, make an often dreary experience “a-heck-of-a-lot-of-fun”!
Cait Quirk moved to Utah from the Pacific Northwest, where she worked as a mountaineering instructor. While studying at the U, she was excited to explore the Wasatch range but wanted to learn more about the mountains to the west. She was surprised by how little the Oquirrhs were understood by the valley’s residents.
“I talked to people who had lived in the Salt Lake Valley for 20 years and didn’t even know the name of the Oquirrhs,” Quirk said. “How can that be? As soon as I moved here, I wanted to run and explore and ski in them.”
She approached Dr. Jessica DiCarlo, a human geographer and political ecologist at the university, to see if she could spend a semester studying the Oquirrhs and why the range doesn’t receive the same interest as the Wasatch.
Mara Scallon and Maddie Hill joined the project that attempted to answer the questions: why do the Oquirrhs seem inaccessible, how can we understand the land and what role does industry and history play in the public’s perception of the mountains?
When researchers asked the public to define the Oquirrh Mountains, they used words like “underrated,” “exploited,” “stepchild,” “surprising,” “beautiful” and “Oquirrific.”
“We realized there was a disjointed perspective between how people thought about and perceived the Wasatch. They’d go out there every day for runs, but they had never once been out to the Oquirrhs to experience that,” Scallon said. “We were curious about how that shaped different perceptions, this whole idea of things hiding in plain sight. There was a mountain range, but people didn’t know the name of that range. That was interesting.”
They talked to residents, federal em-
ployees, state and county officials, historians and nonprofit groups like The Oquirrh Foundation. They hiked and ran on the trails, did some backcountry skiing and participated in several events held on the mountain.
By studying archival photos and local histories, the researchers found virtually no information about Indigenous tribes who had lived there, and no information about women who had helped settle the area. However, there was vast information about the mining industry in the Oquirrh Mountains.
Scallon said they discovered there are nearly 300 archaeological resources in the range, but because most of those sites are on private property, no guidelines have been set for preservation.
“It goes to show that visibility in history depends on land ownership and depends on industry,” she said. “That led us to ask, if there are hundreds [of archaeological resources] that the state knows about, what else is there that is not known?”
The Oquirrhs are a mash-up of private ownership, federal and public lands, and military properties, with Camp Williams and the Tooele Army Depot located on its east and west sides. Property owners don’t seem to welcome the public accessing the area, as demonstrated by the numerous “No Trespassing” signs.
In 2023, Salt Lake County opened Herriman’s Butterfield Trailhead Regional Park. It includes 13 miles of trails for hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians and runners. As a competitive mountain biker, offroad trails are one thing that enticed Hill to move to Utah from California. She said the Oquirrhs offer a dynamic recreational landscape that seems to be underutilized.
“These trails have become more than just an outdoor outlet. They are something
that promotes health, environmental stewardship and community pride,” Hill said. “I also view these trail systems as a place for growth, connection and mentorship. These trail systems serve as a way to keep [people] engaged in the outdoors for many years… People of any age or any demographic can come together and embrace the beauty of these mountains.”
As sprawl inches toward the Oquirrhs, Quirk expressed the necessity for stewardship and environmental protection. She noted the EPA has still not designated the Kennecott Superfund sites in Magna and Copperton as safe for soil or water. Quirk applauded the Oquirrh Foundation’s efforts to preserve lands and facilitate community engagement through events and clean-up activities.
“Most people we talked to really want to develop safe and healthy places for generations to come,” she said. “Conservation goals will take a lot of different stances, but people noted that some habitats should not have more human impacts. To limit disputes, there needs to be preservation that spans different mindsets.”
Scallon said the big question for the Oquirrhs is, how will human and environmental health be prioritized over profit? As more communities are built near the range, what is the impact on water resources and air pollution? How does the increase in wildfires and the possibility of toxic chemical exposure change the way cities expand in that area?
“Whose voices are being left out of these conversations about development and about the growth that’s happening in the region?” Scallon asked. “As humans change how the land is being used and accessed, that can cause some significant challenges.” l
The Oquirrh Foundation organizes clean-up events to keep the Oquirrh Mountains healthy and to bring attention to the range on the west side of the Salt Lake Valley. (Photo courtesy Bennion Gardner)
DanceSport champions return from Special Olympics World Winter Games in Italy
Utah athletes bring home the gold and bronze.
By Collette Hayes c.hayes@mycityjournals.com
Shaped by years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance, 1,500 athletes and Unified Partners from nearly 100 nations united in Turin, Italy, to compete in the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025. Four athletes representing the United States in DanceSport took center stage during game events, celebrating their remarkable journey to winning gold and bronze medals. Thousands watched in silence as the U.S. national anthem filled the Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino event center, and the American flag was raised in honor of the U.S. athletes.
The athletes are team members of the Salt Lake Stars, a Special Olympics Utah team participating in the Metro (SLC) region. Last year, these four athletes achieved gold medal finishes in the Utah dance program, qualifying them for international competition. They were the only dancers selected to represent the USA at the World Games and were the first to compete internationally.
According to Special Olympics International Board of Directors, DanceSport combines dance and athletic competition elements. Athletes perform choreography to music, which may include a variety of dance styles such as ballet, modern dance, hip-hop and others.
Cottonwood Heights resident Andy Melville, Saratoga Springs resident Nora Schultz and South Jordan residents Trey Garett and Natalie Green returned home during the week of March 16 from Turin, where they were greeted by cheers and banners celebrating their remarkable win in DanceSport performance at the 2025 World Games.
Andy Melville has been studying dance at the University of Utah Tanner Dance studio for 18 years and recently at the Infinity Dance Studio in Ogden where he prepared for the 2025 World Games.
According to Andy’s mother, Yukie Melville, Andy shines when he has an audience—the larger the better. He’s performed at half-time shows at BYU football games and in the Tabernacle Choir on Temple Square’s Christmas Specials, also winning the lead in the Tanner Dance production of “Finding Nemo Jr.”
“Definitely, winning a gold medal in Turin has been the highlight of Andy’s dance career,” Yukie Melville said. “Andy works for Granite School District Food Services and he had to ask for two weeks leave to participate in the games. They were more than willing to let him take the time off.”
Holladay Mayor Rob Dahle welcomed
the Special Olympic athletes to City Hall in March. He asked Andy Melville if he were going to continue his rigorous dance workout schedule now that he was home from Turin. “No,” Andy Melville said without hesitation, “I need to get back to work.”
Schultz brought home the gold winning in a DanceSport solo performance. She has participated in numerous sports with Special Olympics since joining in 2022.
According to Special Olympics USA, Schultz says Special Olympics has helped her to stay active and improve her social skills. In addition to her rigorous athletic training schedule, she attends Brigham Young University, holds a part-time job and helps to teach a weekly Sunday school class.
Garett and Green, who performed in the duo dance competition, told the Journal going out at night with family and friends to experience Italian cuisine was a highlight during the games.
“The pastas, croissants and different kinds of pizza in Italy are amazing,” Green said.
Pin Trading
Pin collecting was a popular activity during the World Games for the athletes. Prior to the games, an art contest was held, and Green’s design was chosen to become the official Olympic DanceSport sticker for the Special Olympics North America team. This sticker is showcased on the Olympic pin and was given to the athletes to commemorate the World Games. Green’s artwork has also been featured on T-shirts and even socks. In collaboration with a family friend, her plans are to create more art designs for socks and continue contributing her art to various charitable events
“In Italy, Trey and I competed against each other collecting pins. He beat me!” Green said as she smiled and laughed. “Trey collected 50 pins - I only collected 37. It was so fun pin trading with athletes from different countries.”
Before leaving for Turin, Green ended up getting a job at Lucky One’s Coffee at the Maramalade branch of the Salt Lake City Public Library.
“Lucky One’s a coffee shop that is LGBTQ friendly and woman owned,” Green said, “and they hire those that have intellectual and physical disabilities. They are located in Park City and now at Marmalade Hill. I’ve been practicing for my new job. I made my dad his first latte ever with a side of avocado toast. He said it was great! My first day on the job will be this Saturday. I’m definitely going to be everyone’s favorite barista!”
What do these athletes enjoy most about dance?
Andy Melville enjoyed working collaboratively with his coach to prepare to compete. He selected his dance music “The Color of the Wind” and helped to choreograph the contemporary dance performance.
Garett enjoys the beat of the music and the feeling the music provides when he dances. “When I was training, I had to go to bed early, wake up early and train a lot and then do it all over again. It was worth it because I liked being a part of something greater than me.”
Green said it makes her happy inside when she can share dance with an audience and especially with the people she loves.
The coach’s role in supporting the athletes
Special Olympics coach Judy Hut makes sure athletes are physically and mentally prepared for state tournaments.
“Special Olympics athletes compete in sports seasons that last 10 to 12 weeks,” Hut said. “The most rewarding aspect of coaching is to see athletes who are often overlooked shine on stage, the court, and the playing field. It brings me so much joy to see an athlete exceed expectations and achieve a personal goal. The most challenging aspect is juggling my day job with volunteer work.”
When the U.S. DanceSport team arrived in Turin there were obstacles and challenges to overcome mixed with incredible highlights.
“On the day the judges reviewed routines, we were told that Natalie had to perform the same floor move as her partner Trey, a move that her choreographer Brooke had originally taken out because of Nat's limited mobility on her left side. It was a shock and a setback, as Nat was supposed to go in front of the judges to be placed in a division for finals just 48 hours later,” Hut said.
“Nat was upset and worried, and we all were, which was 100% justified,” Hut continued. “The routine she had practiced for four months now needed to be changed and the floor element brought back. But Nat did what she does best, demonstrating her
resiliency and optimism. She got back up again to persevere and nail the choreography. She and Trey were placed in the highest duo division and ultimately took home the bronze. Other highlights were watching Andy and Nora nail their routines, both earning gold in their respective routines. It was an honor to see these amazing athletes represent Utah and the USA on a global stage. They gave incredible performances and showed the world their heart, dedication, and passion.”
Mayor Dahle thanked the athletes and their parents for their hard work and for representing the U.S. at the 2025 World Games.
“To all of the parents here, you have very special children,” Dahle said, “I can tell how much work you have put into supporting them in their passion. It’s so impressive.”
Sportsmanship & Comradery
In the written words of Special Olympics International, “Visiting any of the venues during the games, you would see it firsthand—high fives, fist bumps, and energetic crowds. The sportsmanship at Special Olympics was extraordinary.”
The Special Olympics World Games theme of "the Strength of Kindness" was a hallmark characteristic demonstrated at all times in the four US athletes as they represented the United States in Turin. When the American flag flies, it symbolizes freedom, democracy, and unity for all.
“Special Olympics means everyone gets the opportunity to do what they love,” Green said. “In the words of the Special Olympics founder Eunice Shriver, I think it's true that everyone with a physical or intellectual disability deserves to have a seat at the table. This really matters to me. As DanceSport athletes, we are really showing the world what inclusion looks like and what it means to lead from the heart. As dancers, we have come a long way in life.” l
Athletes from left to right: Natalie Green, bronze medal, Performing Arts Traditional Mixed – Jazz; Nora Schultz, gold medal, Performing Arts Solo Ballet; Trey Garrett, bronze medal, Performing Arts Traditional Mixed – Jazz; and Andy Melville, gold medal, Performing Arts Solo – Contemporary. (Photo courtesy Greg Green)
ing in early May after an extensive fundraising drive to replace its old location, which it has outgrown.
“We’re very excited about that,” Ramsey said. “The Fullmer family has worked to build this new legacy boxing gym, part of a long time legacy here in South Jordan. They don’t just teach kids how to box…they teach them life skills. They have to earn good grades if they want to keep boxing. They are education and life mentors, and I’m so grateful they are here in our city.”
Construction will soon begin on a new indoor swim lane at the South Jordan/Salt Lake County Recreation Center, something Ramsey said has been “years in the making. Our swimmers need more swim lanes, and we have residents who want to use the lap lanes. To have a partnership between Salt Lake County, South Jordan City and the Jordan School District is wonderful.”
She also said more development plans will soon be announced for both the west side and the east side of the city.
So why all the growth in South Jordan, which will soon have a population of more than 100,000 residents?
“South Jordan has for a long time been a place where people want to live,” the mayor said. “They can work and recreate, they can travel easily, but when you want to find a home, South Jordan has been a place where a
BUILD A BETTER BRAIN
You have an amaz ng child and you see their potential Yet you also see them work ng harder than they shou d have to with focus behavior, or learning. This leads to stress and more challenges in areas of emotions and overall we l-being.
Go deeper than symptoms address the root-cause of what s holding your child back
Free of medication. Game-changing.
When your child s struggling, and you know they re capable of so much more, t can be overwhelming. We understand what is going on and wil create an indiv dualized program to get your child s brain stronger so they can be the r best
Brain Balance of Utah
Centers in South Jordan and Orem At-home V rtual Program available
(801) 899-4949
brainbalancecenters com
lot of people want to call home. We continue to provide a high level of service which our residents expect. We’re one of the only communities that still plows our city streets when it snows. And as we continue to grow, we don’t just let growth happen to us, but we lead it, envision it and direct it so that we maintain our quality of life and make it even better.”
Regarding traffic, Ramsey knows there are challenges with east-west connectivity, one reason she’s worked to build a strong relationship with UDOT. The TRAX station that just opened was 10 years ahead of its original schedule.
“If we can make stronger north-south routes, it means people will travel less going east and west,” she said. “If we can bring amenities closer to where they work, and have high paying job opportunities, with three freeways, three TRAX stops and a Frontrunner station, we are very connected so that people can come into South Jordan without having to go so far east and west.”
Ramsey is very excited about the city’s continued growth and progress.
“Right now I feel we are at the heart of where things are happening here in Salt Lake County and along the Wasatch Front,” she said. “We have happy families with a lot of park space, a lot of outdoor recreation space. It’s something that’s a very high priority for our residents and it is for us. Our future is bright.” l
Mention code JOURNAL for a $49 comprehensive assessment!
Are you a business leader? At no cost, the ElevateHERTM Challenge is easy to accept and will benefit your company. Join businesses across Utah in our mission to elevate the stature of women’s leadership. Take the ElevateHERTM Challenge and stand with other businesses as we pledge to elevate women in senior leadership positions, in boardrooms, on management teams and on politcal ballots.
Mental health starts in the brain.
Mayor Dawn Ramsey throws out the first pitch at the opening night of Salt Lake Bees baseball in The Ballpark at America First Square on April 8. (Photo courtesy South Jordan City)
Revel Media Group forges ahead with displays for sports venues across the country
Kaysville-based Revel Media Group created the scoreboard for the new Salt Lake Bees baseball stadium in South Jordan.
By Tom Haraldsen Salt Lake Business Journal
It began with a passion for digital signage, but it’s morphed into communication for the Revel Media Group. This Utahbased company headquartered in Kaysville has grown from a small office into one of the nation’s leading experience integrators, its products in stadiums, sports venues and retail outlets across the country.
Their latest work can be found at The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan, new home of the Salt Lake Bees Triple A baseball club. From the huge scoreboard behind the left field fence to the “ribbons” around the grandstands between the first and second decks, Revel’s digital products can be found throughout the stadium.
“Our founders, Brian Fitzpatrick and Matt Dopp, began working with Utah high schools in 2011,” Trevor Cannon said, Revel’s vice president of marketing and experience.
“They expanded their reach to colleges, the military and small businesses, even flower shops. Eventually we shifted away from just advertising and into the visual messaging business.”
The company’s first foray into sports came in 2017, when the Larry H. Miller company began plans to renovate the Delta Center.
“They let us bid on the project because they already knew our work from the Megaplex theaters and they knew we were going to get the job done,” Cannon said. “Since then, we’ve
done multiple stadiums and venues, including for the San Antonio FC soccer stadium, the Phoenix Suns, the Orlando soccer stadium and the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. We don’t build the stadiums, of course, but do the LED boards and visual displays.”
The Ballpark at America First Square’s scoreboard is the largest one Revel has done and might be as big as any other in the country. The company ordered components from both foreign and domestic vendors, then began assembling it prior to opening night on April 8. Despite its size, putting it together only took a few days.
Cannon said Revel purchased and received all of the LED components well in advance of the pending tariffs on imported products. He said installation at the ballpark was a very carefully choreographed affair, with construction ongoing and small setbacks like installation of electrical, power, sewer and streets also merging at the site.
“And, of course, normal things like weather can be a challenge,” he said. “Nevertheless, by opening night, everything was in place for the Bees.”
The company’s history with LHM could mean another collaboration with changes at America First Field, home of the Real Salt Lake and Utah Royals soccer teams which the Miller organization just purchased. Cannon said Revel hopes to be working soon with the new owners on upgrades at the stadium.
As Revel’s experience has grown and evolved, so has the LED industry.
“On older LEDs, the pixels were further apart than they are now,” Cannon says of the minibulbs that make up LED displays. “Now they’ve gotten smaller and more concentrated, so you can portray crazy amounts of high-resolution images at scale. They’re just as crystal clear on these huge displays as they would be on a TV. And they are all weatherproof, so they can withstand rain, cold and heat. That of course is critical for outdoor usage.”
The lifespan performance of those pixels has also improved. Most displays can last four to five years without the need for repair or replacement.
“We have a lot of excitement for all that’s coming for our displays,” Cannon said, adding that Revel has opened offices in Tempe, Arizona and Ringgold, Georgia. “It’s a cliche to say our future looks bright—just like our products.” l
The large scoreboard at The Ballpark at America First Square was created by Revel Media Group in Kaysville, which has made electronic displays for many sports venues and businesses. (Tom Haraldsen/City Journals)
Community Heroes: High school choir director left lasting impression on thousands of students
Kerry Moore cared about his students beyond the classroom.
By Becky Ginos b.ginos@mycityjournals.com
Mostkids don’t remember their high school teachers let alone keep in touch for years after graduation but it’s different with Kerry Moore’s students. The Bountiful man was the choral music director and German teacher at Cyprus High School for 35 years and left such a lasting impact that former students still called him “friend.” Moore passed away April 16 after a lengthy battle with pancreatic cancer.
“He was an amazing teacher and so much more,” said Brent Graham, who graduated in 1998. “He was the person I needed at the time. He was the closest thing to a father.”
Graham grew up without a father and his mother passed away after he graduated. “It left a big hole,” he said. “I was a scared little 19 year old. They (Moore and his wife Stacey) basically took me in. They’d invite me to Sunday dinner and Christmas. Otherwise I would have been alone.”
He loved teaching, said Graham. “It wasn’t a job, it was like a calling. He made you want to be a better person. His joy was infectious.”
“He was that guy,” said Blake Halladay who graduated in 1997. “You knew he cared beyond class. Many times I’d talk to him after school for hours. If kids had personal problems at home he’d step in to help. He was there for that.”
Kerry and Stacey were a power couple, Halladay said. “They could have done so much but they chose to teach high
school. That says volumes about their character.”
Once kids graduated it didn’t end, he said. “My wife and I would go places with them. There are three men who changed the trajectory of my life. My father, my father-in-law and Kerry.”
Halladay spent time with Moore a few days before his passing. “I told him ‘I’m a better man because of you.’ He said, ‘Me too.’ That really hit me to think he feels blessed by me.”
“The most interesting thing about him was the passion and love he’d put into every project,” said Liz Oates who graduated in 1997. “You never felt like an afterthought. He wanted us to succeed. He would push us but we always felt that love.”
Oates said Moore was close friends with her father. “He and my dad were such good comrades. My dad wrote some music and when he died unexpectedly from a heart attack Kerry played dad’s album at his funeral. It was so touching. He was busy in his life but it was so special that he took the time to do that.”
Her senior year, Oates said one of her classmates was homeless for a time and living in her car. “He would check in on her and another classmate who had a horrible thing happen to her. He sat down and consoled her. That’s why so many people remember him. If you were down and out he’d be a friend to help people to recover.”
“Kerry was so patient and loving,” said Jeremy Felt who graduated in 2019. “He helped us find success. He would check our grades and see what he could do to help.”
In addition to choir, Moore was involved with the school musicals, Felt said. “I did a lot of musicals with Kerry and his wife who did the choreography. When I was the lead in ‘Pirates of Penzance’ he told me to envision the music. He said music is the universal language to connect with people. He said the words
might fade but they would always remember that song—music is so impactful.”
Felt said he also took music theory from Moore. “I still have my binder that he created. I create music for fun now in remembrance of Mr. Moore. I’m involved with community choirs and theater because of Mr. Moore.”
He was like Mr. Rogers, said Felt. “I’m so grateful that I got to be a part of his life. He touched the lives of others. He’s going to be missed.” To submit your Community Hero, email hero@ thecityjournals.com.l
Kerry Moore (left) with former student Brent Graham. The pair continued to be close friends for years after Graham’s graduation. (Photo courtesy of Brent Graham)
Fullmer Legacy Center opens at new and permanent South Jordan location
develop strength and confidence, where families can gather, where stories and heritage can be preserved, and where the values of hard work, resilience and character can be passed on.”
By Tom Haraldsen t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com
For more than 40 years, young boxers in the Salt Lake Valley and throughout the Intermountain West have been inspired and benefitted by the Fullmer family. Brothers Gene, Jay and Don Fullmer created a legacy of the sport through personal achievement and philanthropic efforts to pass their skills and mindsets of dedication to thousands of youth who’ve trained, taken fitness classes and received lessons for life through the Fullmer program, all of them for free.
But it wasn’t until May 2 that the program found a permanent home when the ribbon was cut for the Fullmer Legacy Center in South Jordan. With family members and descendants on hand, Larry Fullmer, chair of the Fullmer Legacy Foundation, joined other dignitaries to celebrate the official opening of the beautiful new facility located at 10960 S. Park Road.
“This is a special day for everyone who believes in the mission for the Fullmer Legacy Center,” Fullmer said. “In 2018, the Fullmer Legacy Foundation was established to honor that legacy, not only in name but in action. For a long time we wished and dreamed that we could have our own building where we could carry forward the spirit of the Fullmer brothers, a place where young people could
The 16,000 square foot facility not only houses training facilities and a great boxing ring, but also features a Hall of Fame museum, a snack bar and even a small gift shop of sorts. Everything pays tribute to the brothers who were raised in the Salt Lake Valley, attended the old Jordan High School and began crafting their skills under the legendary Marv Jensen at his facility in West Jordan.
“To all of you who have committed to honor the Fullmer legacy and investing in the next generation, one of the promises we made was that it would always be free to young people to work out, because Marv Jensen made it free for them in West Jordan and the area throughout all the 40s, 50s and 60s,” Fullmer said. “The brothers wanted to keep it that way.”
He said the first Fullmer gym was the Butterfield, at 126000 South and 2700 West and within a chicken coop. It then moved to the old Riverton Elementary, then moved to a stake center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in West Jordan on Redwood Road, then to the old Sugar Factory building. Both were later torn down. The next move was to an old West Jordan fire station for several years, but they were told they needed to move again.
“So we called Greg Hughes, a friend who was in the state legislature, who talked to Salt Lake Council member Randy Horiuchi, and they found the old Sheriff's Posse building just west of here at the Equestrian Park. We’ve been there for almost 13 years. For all those places to lead
to this–that’s a giant leap.”
The site was leased to the foundation thanks to a collaborative effort between Salt Lake County and South Jordan City. The Fullmer family has been active in fundraising for construction of the building that began in 2023. Fullmer said all the many days, weeks and months of connecting with donors, architects and construction crews has been well worth the effort
“When you see the kids in here now, practicing and all, you know why we’re doing this,” he said. “When some of the kids come up and say thank you–that’s all you need.” l
Larry Fullmer and dignitaries cut the ribbon to open the Fullmer Legacy Center in South Jordan on May 2. (Tom Haraldsen/City Journals)
Interfaith gathering celebrates Christian love at South Jordan event
A pre-Easter event at The Ballpark at America First Square celebrated the messages of Jesus Christ with song, artwork and food.
By Tom Haraldsen t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com
The South Valley Interfaith Council held a pre-Easter event on April 14 at The Ballpark at America First Square. Several thousand people attended the gathering, which included musical performances, an art show, a wall of testimonies from residents about their feelings on Jesus Christ and booths/exhibits from several religious congregations in the Salt Lake Valley.
Headlining the performances was musical group J209, who took the stage set up in the infield of the ballpark, home of the Salt Lake Bees. Lead signer Abi Urton said her group’s mission, like those of all the performers, was one of unity.
“We realized that there’s been a lot of tension between different religions for decades and centuries, but what we ultimately all try to do is grow closer to Jesus Christ, even from different paths, so we’re better prepared for His coming,” she said. “There’s been a decline in church attendance, especially in groups of those 20 to 30 years old, so our whole mission is to create an environment where people can find a community that supports their faith.”
A committee made up of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Neighborhood Church, Sego
Church of South Jordan, the “Hello Saints” YouTube channel and Multiply Goodness worked together to host the event.
“We knew about the concept for the program in January,” Urton said. “Several different pastors knew about us, which surprised us since we had just started performing then. We all began working together to put on the event.”
Bethany Zeyer, a member of the Interfaith Council, said it was a great opportunity for different denominations to share traditions and their messages. There were 14 stations set up in and around the stadium where groups could share their thoughts as the Easter season approached. Several of the food vendors at the stadium were also open for business to feed families who attended.
The story of J209 is one of combined spiritual commitment, with members coming from different backgrounds to form a vocal band that has performed at many events the past few months, and will be touring into southern states later this year.
“Our name came from my own spiritual journey of sorts,” Urton said. “I came across Jeremiah 20:09 in the Bible that talks of an internal struggle.” She said her journey to strengthen her beliefs was heightened by the verse that speaks of an inner fire of the need to share God’s word, despite struggles and challenges. That sharing “is what our message is all about.”
She also loved the efforts of these different denominations coming together to “find God and trying to be closer to Jesus Christ. It felt amazing.” l
Volunteers from several community churches manned displays and answered questions at the Interfaith event. (Tom Haraldsen/City Journals)
Jordan School District honors inspirational educators
Surprise ceremonies and big cheers mark outstanding teacher recognition.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Asa middle school student, Jordan School District Superintendent Anthony Godfrey found inspiration from his English teacher.
“When I was a kid, Mr. (Stan) Evans did everything he could to reach me personally and make sure I had great experiences in school; nobody did it like him,” Godfrey said. “He was very encouraging of my going into teaching. I taught English like him; I really took after him.”
Today, Godfrey draws motivation from the dedication and creativity of outstanding educators throughout his district.
“It means the world to these teachers to know that they're recognized not just by the people who they work with, but by the people in the (Jordan Education) Foundation who read the nominations and make the donations that make the celebrations possible,” Godfrey said. “We have so many amazing teachers in our district. There are 3,600 teachers overall, and it's important for us to be able to highlight a teacher in every building every year. They need to be noticed and know how much we appreciate them and that they're having a lasting impact day to day.”
At an April 16 banquet held at the Salt Lake Bees’ new South Jordan stadium, each of the top 14 honorees received $1,000 from the Foundation, a Beddy’s blanket, a commemorative bat crafted by South Valley students and additional gifts.
Alongside the Jordan Education Foundation, school administrators, South Jordan Mayor Dawn Ramsey, state Rep. Tracy Miller, Salt Lake Bees broadcaster Tony Parks and local leaders, Godfrey surprised the 14 exceptional teachers on March 20. Four of them teach in South Jordan schools.
Amber Thomas, Bingham High
Amber Thomas, coach of the national champion Bingham High cheer squad, English teacher and department chair and instructional coach, was recognized for her unwavering support of students.
“My high school English teacher (Jackie Burr) was the absolute best,” Thomas said. “She was also my cheer coach. I knew my junior year I wanted to teach English and follow in her footsteps. I was lucky enough to teach with her the first couple years here at Bingham. She's just amazing. The one thing I hope I do, that she does, is care about kids.”
Thomas builds strong connections with her students through an inclusive classroom environment and active support outside the classroom.
“I start off trying to get to know the students the best way I possibly can, so they know I care about them. I attend as many things as I possibly can so kids can see me supporting them outside of the classroom. It's just fun to be around the kids,” she said.
Godfrey praised her impact: “She's an outstanding educator, outstanding coach and outstanding instructional coach of the year. She lifts everyone she's around.”
Thomas was surprised by her award and the spirited celebration featuring cheerleaders, percussionists and a gym full of students.
“I thought I was meeting with the principal and a guy with gym mat storage. It took a moment to register this; I just didn't know it would ever be me,” she said.
Parks acknowledged her efforts behind the scenes: “It’s the stuff that people don’t see. It's amazing the work that
you put together and it's great to see it all come together in a moment like this.”
Her principal, Rodney Shaw, pointed out the sentiment in his nomination: “Amber helps many students outside of her own in her classroom...she willingly gives her own time to inspire these students to succeed.”
Thomas appreciated the recognition.
“This is a great school with a supportive administration,” she said. “I'm lucky because I get to connect with students and make a difference in their lives. As an instructional coach, I help retain great teachers who impact the students at this school. I get the best of both worlds. I have a 10-yearold and a 4-year-old and the 10-year-old was over the moon about this award. The best part though is feeling the value of all the things I do. It's nice it doesn't go unnoticed.”
Celina Forsyth, Aspen Elementary
Celina Forsyth was caught completely off guard when her classroom turned into a celebration.
“I was in my classroom, where the class had just finished taking a quiz, and the kids were silent reading; I was kneeling down talking to a student about his book,” she said. “I remember people coming into my room and I thought, ‘One of the kids won something.’ But when someone said, ‘Stand on this chair,’ I thought, ‘Why am I standing on a chair when one of the kids won an award?’ I looked around and I saw my mom who lives in Oregon and I wasn’t sure why she was there for a student. It turned out I won an award. I was so shocked the whole time.”
Her students quickly erupted in celebration.
“Many of them clapped with all their heart. They were very proud. They were tearing papers out of their notebooks, asking for autographs. They were excited not just for me, but because the school district and community were generous enough to give bowling passes for them and their families,” she said.
Her path to teaching was shaped by her own fifth-grade teacher “who made me love school. That's when I really started striving toward being an educator” and she gave up other ideas of being a princess or a softball star.
“My last bit of my undergrad, I sent him an email and let him know he was a big impact on me. I have this memory where he would roll around on his rolly chair and pretend he was stopping at drive throughs to check on us the kids. We were having fun for fun sake, he was making learning more enjoyable,” she said.
Forsyth applies that spirit to her lessons today. After an English unit on the heart, she transformed her classroom into an operating room, with students wearing surgical
scrubs building 3D heart models.
“I always tell my kids, if we can get through the nitty gritty with a good attitude, we'll end up with extra time and we can do something fun,” she said.
She’s also organized experiences such as a book tasting in an Italian-themed café and a math-based murder mystery.
“It keeps the kids engaged and it motivates them. I want my kids to take away from their fourth-grade year that they were cared for and that they're capable, so much more capable than they give themselves credit for. I hold expectations high and show them they can reach those,” Forsyth said.
In just her second year teaching at Aspen and third overall, Forsyth feels supported and inspired.
“I absolutely adore the community,” she said. “I'm surprised about this award because I am surrounded by such an incredible faculty and staff. I go into school every day and I see so much love and care and effort put toward every single one of these kids that I'm inspired every day to meet that same expectation. I want to be that same teacher for everybody, too. Not only do I love seeing the students grow to be their best selves, but I see myself growing to be my best self, too.”
Jerusha Johnson, South Jordan Middle Band teacher Jerusha Johnson was honored during a heartwarming surprise orchestrated by her school community.
“My students make me feel appreciated every single day,” she said. “There is not a day that goes by that one of my kids will walk in and say, ‘Finally, the class I got out
Welcomed into the gym by cheerleaders, percussionists and students, Bingham High’s Amber Thomas learned from the Jordan Education Foundation that she was chosen as an outstanding educator of the year for Jordan School District. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Aspen Elementary teacher Celina Forsyth was celebrated by not only school and community leaders and students, but also by Salt Lake Bees mascot, Bumble, as she was named an outstanding educator of the year for Jordan School District. (Photo courtesy Jordan School District)
Monte Vista Elementary dual immersion teacher Lannies Liu was surprised to learn at a schoolwide assembly that she was selected as an outstanding educator of the year for Jordan School District. (Photo courtesy Jordan School District)
of ourselves and to be happy we know the skills. I'm proud of them, especially since it's hard.”
Johnson builds their self-esteem and confidence by challenging students.
“I teach them the gift of failure and tell them straight out, ‘Today, I’m giving you the gift of failure.’ They know it will be something tough for them, but when they break it down and work on it, they realize they can do hard things. It's the best way to learn. Banging your head against the wall is an OK thing as long as you make progress. When they do succeed, they should feel good about themselves,” she said.
Principal Curtis Jenson summed up her dedication: “She puts the students first and works harder than anyone to help them succeed and to ensure they have fun while doing it.”
Johnson has taught 15 years, eight at South Jordan Middle.
“It’s fulfilling my students and the people in my community know how much I care about them and want to give them a good education,” she said. “It’s also humbling hearing all these nice things people are saying. I really want to live up to that. I want to up my game. I want to be that person.”
Lannies Liu, Monte Vista Elementary Lannies Liu, a dual immersion teacher originally from Taiwan, has spent a decade
shaping students’ lives through Chinese language and culture.
“Education is very different here than in Taiwan, so that’s why I wanted to learn how to teach here,” she said.
During her four years at Monte Vista, Liu has started an after-school tutoring program where older students help younger peers with Chinese immersion. She often stays late to assist students preparing for Chinese competitions.
“Teaching is not easy, but I hope I can help my students have a better and happier future. That's why I became a teacher,” she said.
A colleague addressed her dedication in his nomination: “(She) maintains high expectations for her students, consistently dedicating her time and energy to support their growth and success. She goes above and beyond, offering students opportunities to apply their Chinese language skills in competitions and community events, always providing the individual attention each student needs to thrive. Her students know that she genuinely cares about their progress and is committed to helping them continuously improve.”
Liu often integrates cultural traditions into her teaching, helping students understand both Taiwanese and Chinese cultures.
“They look like the same country, but they do carry different culture. I want them to know the cultural differences between
these two countries. When culture is introduced, they learn fast and have a greater understanding,” she said.
One event Liu led — a Mid-Autumn Moon Festival — drew wide community participation.
A parent who nominated her said, “(She) envisioned an event where the entire Monte Vista Community came together to experience Chinese culture and celebration. Her vision came to life as families, both in and out of DLI program, came in large numbers to experience, taste and participate in Chinese culture. It will now be an ongoing event that will be experienced for years to come.”
Liu was moved by the honor.
“I thought they were throwing a party for someone else. I saw the (Bees) mascot and I thought, ‘Someone likes baseball.’ We were waiting for an assembly in the gym when they invited me to come up. I was really very surprised and honored,” Liu said. “It really touches my heart to be part of this school and school district, but to be honest, all this still feels a little unreal.”
Mayor Dawn Ramsey summed up the spirit of the awards: “We have so many amazing teachers who put their heart and soul into helping students learn and excel. These teachers are elite. They go above and beyond to provide the best opportunities for every child they teach.” l
of bed for’ or ‘I'm so happy to be able to play my instrument.’ I get, ‘This is my favorite class’ or ‘you're my favorite teacher’ every single day. My kids are not afraid to say, ‘We sound good because of your hard work.’ If I needed that to fill my cup, I would be the most content person on earth, because they make it overflow every day. They're just sweet and they genuinely feel that way. So that is where my satisfaction comes from; my heart is full of gratitude and love.”
Johnson teaches more than 300 students across multiple band classes and was stunned to see the crowd which gathered to recognize her — and that she couldn’t see every student who was there to support her to be able to thank them personally.
“I felt bad about that, because I know if I had been in their shoes, I would have wanted my teacher to see I was there supporting them and thinking they were cool,” she said.
That’s because Johnson remembers being in their shoes.
“Growing up in middle school and high school, I spent most of my time at school. I really loved school. It was where I was happiest,” she said.
Johnson was influenced by a friend and her music history professor to teach band.
“I'm passionate about music and about teaching,” she said. “We look back and compare how far we've come, to be proud
Nearly 100 students formed a bridge for South Jordan Middle School band teacher Jerusha Johnson to walk under as she navigated through to learn once she emerged that she was to be honored as an outstanding educator of the year for Jordan School District. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
By Brian Shaw b.shaw@mycityjournals.com
ForAvery Neff, the Bingham Miner has always stayed friendly yet honest as she’s climbed the gymnastics pyramid.
From her days at Olympus Gymnastics as a 7x-Level 10 performer, and when her outgoing personality has been visible in the halls and classrooms at Bingham High School, she has always touched the hearts of people.
When Neff was just a sophomore at Bingham, she showed her true self to the world when a verbal commitment was made to where she planned on attending college.
“Wow! Words cannot explain how hard this process has been for me! So many amazing programs and so many amazing people I met along the way!” said Neff. “I’m so grateful to announce that I have verbally committed to a full athletic scholarship to the University of Utah! I’m so excited!”
For some, a commitment to a scholarship means they might take their foot off the gas a bit. Not Neff, who not only made pals wherever she went, she was candid about her journey.
“I don’t mean to get cheesy on here but being a competitive gymnast is tough… It requires passion, patience and persistence,” posted Neff. “I am not going to lie, there are times when I’ve wanted to quit… But if you are thinking about quitting, DON’T! I promise it’s worth it!”
Neff would know. 2021 and 2022 were kind of tough for the Bingham Miner on the mats. There were slips—and falls. She merely placed at the 2021 and 2022 Nastia Liukin Cup competition instead of winning.
Taking her own advice, after taking time off to pursue her other favorite pastime—doing acrobatics off ropes and cliffs at Lake Powell among other travels—Neff won the Nastia Liukin Cup in 2023.
A month later, the Bingham junior won the Region 1 Championships with a 9.85 on the floor exercise. She also had 9.85s on the uneven bars and vault. All told, Neff had a 39.275 score. She had already landed sponsorship deals with BUILT Bar and Gkelite Leotards, too. And yet none of that stopped
Neff from dating different guys at every Bingham High prom and soaking up every bit of knowledge she could from her teachers.
Having graduated from Bingham in 2024 and having spent plenty of time chilling on the houseboat at Powell, Neff was ready to become a Red Rock, a gymnast on the vaunted University of Utah team that has several national championships to its credit, packing fans into the 15,000-seat Huntsman Center for every meet.
It’s a long way from the hotel ballrooms and convention centers where Neff’s club team Olympus often performed, and yet the 5-foot-4-inch dynamo has done nothing but shine among the brightest lights and biggest stages at Utah.
Of course it’s had scary moments, such as the one where she suffered third-degree sprains to both ankles. But, like the way Neff has approached people—with honesty and candor—the Miner has met her challenge head-on and was named the Big 12 Freshman of the Year for the Red Rocks, in addition to a Big 12 Beam championship and a spot on the Big 12 All-Freshman Team.
Neff capped off her freshman season at Utah this April with her first all-around ti-
tle, as her Utes defeated UCLA, Minnesota and Denver to win NCAA Regionals at the Huntsman Center April 2-5. The Miner’s 39.650 score gave Neff the all-around title and her vault went viral.
For her efforts, Neff was named a fourtime All-American as a Utah freshman.
The season ended last month for the Red Rocks that finished fourth overall at the NCAA National Championships in Fort Worth, Texas. In the meantime, Neff has become an overnight sensation who could seriously consider giving up the sport of gymnastics if she wanted. The Bingham Miner has already racked up some big-time NIL deals with Amazon Music and Cover Girl and her posts on Instagram are trending—the one in which Neff’s Utes teammates are impersonating her is certainly on that list.
The best part is that Neff is staying humble to her core and keeping faith in her life. It hasn’t always been easy for Neff, but from childhood to Bingham High on up the hill to the University of Utah she’s remained memorable, and you’ve got to think that this trait, along with her feisty competitive spirit, is why her coaches and peers have named her Utah’s Newcomer of the Year. l
Senior Shyann Banasky lifts Bingham softball with her hitting and small-town
Behind Banasky’s power, the Miners enjoyed a strong end to the regular season.
By Brian Shaw b.shaw@mycityjournals.com
Bingham senior Shyann Banasky leaned into home plate looking right at Red Brooks, Mountain Ridge’s senior pitcher.
Moments later, the pitch Banasky hit lifted above Brooks’ head and sailed over the outfield wall in the first inning, and the Miners eked out a 10-8 win May 8.
“I knew we had two outs and needed a momentum change,” Shyann said. “I was just looking for a gap to get on base, but the home run just kind of happened. My team backed me up with more hits to finish the inning, and eventually the game.”
After that, Brooks—who will be playing on the same college team with Shyann, ironically—nearly gave up another home run to Shyann that was caught inches before it lifted over the outfield fence. Brooks then intentionally walked the Bingham senior on her next two at-bats.
Bingham [18-9] also captured a 9-6 victory at Mountain Ridge May 5, handing the Sentinels only their third and fourth losses on the season, a team that was knocked out of a shot to win the Region 2 title outright after they suffered those two losses to a veteran group of Miners that is red-hot headed into this state tournament.
For Shyann Banasky, she began playing tee ball with her older brother when the family was living in Price, according to her mom.
“She’d wear her dress up Fancy Nancy tutu to games,” recalled Shauntel Banasky, who admitted she was feeling a bit nostalgic on her day—Mother’s Day.
After that, and after the family had relocated to South Jordan for work, Shyann played a season of softball at Gene Fullmer Recreation Center when she was 7, changed to Little League Baseball for a season with the boys, then moved over to Oquirrh Mountain at age 9 for two seasons before she started playing competitive softball.
As a freshman, Shyann—aka Pamela—wasted zero time showing her stuff, hitting RBIs in her first game on the Bingham varsity in March 2021. A day later against Bear River, she launched her first home run and would finish the season with two Player of the Week awards, 3 HR and 14 RBI, and hit .326.
Shyann’s numbers dropped somewhat as a sophomore, and so she wrapped up her second season on the varsity hitting two home runs and 11 RBI and yet her onbase percentage improved enough to .551 to rank her No. 32 in all of Class 6A.
As a junior though, Shyann played in her most games in a season, had her most
at-bats and yet hit .402 with three home runs and 20 RBI. Those numbers helped the Bingham Miner garner interest from a few schools after she gave it her all in the 6A championship game, going 3-for-4 at the plate against rival Riverton in a 12-3 loss that ended her third season on the varsity squad.
Shyann has put all of those experiences together for her best year yet in 2025. The senior hit a team-high .478 with three homers, four triples, 10 doubles and 33 RBI for a Miners team that was literally gelling at the right time as the state tournament approached (which finished after press deadline).
To give you an idea of how dominant Bingham was after that second loss to the Silverwolves, the Miners 10-run ruled San Juan in three innings, defeated Providence Hall 8-0 in five, and 10-runned Weber, their third opponent in five innings.
Two days later, Shyann’s squad blasted Corner Canyon 10-0 in just six innings April 29. She went 7-for-9 at the plate, hitting two home runs and 8 RBI—in just four games.
As a team, Bingham scored 39 runs and had 41 hits—in just four games. The best news of all? Senior Brecka Larson got a little rest after she had a perfect game and a no-hitter in Bingham’s first two wins of the streak; thus the senior responded with a 14-strikeout, two-hit shutout against Corner Canyon.
Despite one narrow 2-1 setback to Herriman on May 1, the Miners went 5-1 over their last six games and have set themselves up for a potential bye at state by dismantling Mountain Ridge in those two games.
For Shyann, her four years at Bing-
ham is a long way from the red rocks and mining town of Price. She’ll travel even further away for college, according to her mom, as Shyann will study at and play for the College of Southern Idaho in Twin Falls. And yet her adopted city of South Jordan and Bingham High School have made her feel at home. l
Bingham senior Shyann Banasky watches as her ball climbs against Mountain Ridge on May 8. The senior hit a home run on the play in the first inning to lift the Miners to a 10-8 win. (Photo courtesy Shauntel Banasky)
By Brian Shaw b.shaw@mycityjournals.com
From a D1 commit to one of the best arms in Utah, and a near-perfect glove to a rocket arm, these five Bingham Miner baseball players are talent-laden and ready for the next chapter in their baseball careers.
Kam Beck – Oregon State University
For two straight years, Kam Beck has been the top hitter for the Miners. The Bingham senior is leading so many statistical categories on the team it’s silly. Beck is hitting .386 with seven home runs and has 25 RBI. In addition, the senior committed to Oregon State has 27 hits and a whopping nine doubles on the season. Beck’s on-base percentage is .531 and he has 15 stolen bases. Again, these are all team-highs. Lest you think that’s all, Beck leads in one more category: slugging percentage [.861].
In Utah high school baseball, Beck’s 7 homers rank him No. 6 among thousands of
high school prospects. For Beck, the next step after Bingham’s run to the upcoming state tournament – where the Miners hope to make some noise – is of course Oregon State University, where the Beavers have a storied history, national titles and yielded the No. 1 pick in last year’s Major League Baseball Draft in Travis Bazzana.
Other major leaguers you might recognize that are OSU alums are Adley Rutschman, Steven Kwan and Trevor Larnach, to name a few. The Beavs—as they’re affectionately known—are 37-121 on the year and are getting ready for another shot at a national title. Will Kam Beck be able to add to an illustrious list of Beavers that have achieved greatness in the bigs? Consider this: in just 155 at-bats in his two-year varsity career at Bingham, Beck has 12 home runs and 60 RBI, hitting .426.
Boston Snyder and Logan Davis – Yakima CC [Washington]
At the outset of his career on Bingham’s baseball team under the now-retired legend Joey Sato, Boston Snyder was a catcher as a freshman. But, Sato saw something in Snyder even in his first year of high school that led the former coach to give this kid a chance on the Miners’ varsity. Snyder responded with an RBI. In
his sophomore year, the lanky 6-foot-3, 185-pound Snyder made the transition to pitcher and remained on Bingham’s junior varsity to learn.
When Snyder was a junior in what would turn out to be Sato’s final season, the catcher-turned pitcher played right away for Bingham, striking out two batters in an 11-1 win over Taylorsville. By the time the season was at its end, Snyder had 44 innings under his belt and even tossed a shutout at Herriman on May 3, 2024, striking out nine. That was enough moxie in the eyes of some colleges that started recruiting Snyder, who has become Class 6A’s top dog in both wins [8] and ERA [1.41] as a starting senior pitcher. Not only that, Snyder is No. 2 in Utah in wins and even ranks nationally in that category at No. 145 as a senior. That sort of success led several schools to come in late and recruit Snyder, who committed to Yakima CC in Washington this past January.
Logan Davis started his career as a pitcher and will end it this May as one, as well. The 6-foot-1, 195-pounder came in relief as a sophomore, appearing in two games on the former Sato’s varsity. As a junior, Davis recorded his first stats in his varsity career, striking out 12 batters in 15 innings pitched and yet no colleges came calling. As a Bingham senior though, Da-
vis has tossed twice the number of innings [29] thus far to go with 20 strikeouts. The thing to know about Davis is that he’s given up no doubles, no triples and no home runs this season—which is why Yakima has also enlisted the Bingham senior’s services.
Dylan Frank – Scottsdale CC [Arizona]
Dylan Frank is well known for his fielding, having held a near-1.000 average with his glove for three years on Bingham’s varsity. The 6-foot-1, 170-pounder had a perfect fielding percentage as a sophomore—well above the national average. It dipped slightly to .979 as a junior, thanks to one error he made in one game against Skyline. The same thing happened to him against Copper Hills this season. Other than that, the Bingham senior has been numerically perfect fielding everything. Frank is also capable of manufacturing runs thanks in large part to his speed and athleticism, as his nine stolen bases and 22 runs attests.
Bauer Williams – Whitworth College [Washington]
Bauer Williams may be the shortest of the five college-bound Miner seniors at 5-foot-9 and 170 pounds—but he might have the strongest arm. Over his past two seasons as Bingham’s catcher, Williams has 275 putouts in 321 total chances. That’s nearly perfect. His fielding percentage is .969, just a shade below Frank’s and just as impressive. The Bingham senior has also turned 14 double plays in his final season. l
Bingham senior Kam Beck lays into a pitch against Mountain Ridge May 2 at the Ballpark at America First Square. Beck hit a home run, but the Miners lost 7-6. (Photo courtesy Dave Argyle for MaxPreps)
APetSuites: Your Pet Care Partner
t PetSuites, our core values of convenience, trust, and fun are not just words – they are the guiding principles behind everything we do. We understand that your pet is family, and their well-being is your top priority. That’s why we provide exceptional care in a comfortable and engaging environment.
We proudly welcome pups of all sizes and embrace the unique characteristics and needs of each animal. Our dedicated team takes the time to understand each pet’s individual personality, ensuring a positive and enriching experience.
Whether you require a safe and comfortable place for your furry companion to stay overnight, or a stimulating and social setting for daytime activity through our daycare program, PetSuites has you covered. Beyond basic care, we offer professional grooming services, ranging from refreshing baths to full pampering sessions, to keep your pet looking and feeling their best.
We encourage pet parents to stop by and see firsthand why PetSuites is the perfect home away from home. Experience our welcoming atmosphere, meet our caring staff, and discover the PetSuites difference.
84096
Volleyball facility opens to help with growing numbers in the sport
“Volleyball
has exploded in popularity over the past decade, and with the sanctioning of boys volleyball in Utah two years ago we are now seeing a massive influx of young men wanting to learn the sport.”
By Catherine Garrett c.garrett@mycityjournals.com
Want to volleyball? A threecourt facility opens Sat. June 7 in South Jordan to help a local volleyball club handle the amount of youth boys and girls wanting to play the sport.
A grand opening party for “The Jetty,” located at 11194 S. Redwood Road will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. that first Saturday in June.
“Volleyball has exploded in popularity over the past decade, and with the sanctioning of boys volleyball in Utah two years ago we are now seeing a massive influx of young men wanting to learn the sport,” Club GSL founder Warren Van Schalkwyk said. “Sport City {in Draper], our home for the last
10 years, has been amazing and helped us immensely in our growth, but the need for more courts has been a problem for most clubs in our state. We will continue to use Sport City but the additional three courts at The Jetty will help us create a better experience for everyone wanting to join the world of volleyball.”
Van Schalkwyk said the name of the building was inspired by GSL’s “Spiral Jetty” logo. “It’s our way of paying homage to our beautiful state and all the opportunities it has given us, both as a business and to our athletes,” he said, adding that “having our own facility has always been on Club GSL’s wish list, but it still feels like a miracle every time we walk through the doors.”
Boys volleyball tryouts at Club GSL are scheduled this summer, just with an extended capacity now. Elect Travel Team Tryouts will be held July 14-15 and Elite/Comp Local Team Tryouts July 17-18. For more information, visit clubgsl. com/salt-lake/boys-club/ or contact Andy Romero at clubgslsandy@ gmail.com. l
The Jetty volleyball facility opens in South Jordan with a grand opening party Sat. June 7 from 5 to 9 p.m. (Photo courtesy Warren Van Schalkwyk)
By Brian Shaw b.shaw@mycityjournals.com
Under new head coach Ben Chamberlain, the Bingham boys’ volleyball team captured their first 6A state title at UVU Saturday, May 10 against Mountain Ridge.
Bingham blasted the Sentinels in the first set by the score of 25-10 and took the second, 25-19.
Would the Miners make a little history with a three-set sweep and win their first state title, ever?
The Miners gave it their all, and maybe nerves creeped in with the first state championship in school history in plain sight, but the Sentinels grabbed the third set, 23-25.
In the fourth set, Bingham wasn’t handed a trophy, by any means. Mountain Ridge played the role of rival very well in a slugfest that the Miners captured, 25-18, to win their first state title in boys’ volleyball by the final score of 25-10, 25-19, 2325 and 25-18.
“6A STATE CHAMPS 2025,” Chamberlain said. “Way to get it done, congratulations boys, well deserved.”
For the new head coach, this was his first state title when in charge of a high school varsity team. Chamberlain won several as an assistant on Olympus High’s boys volleyball teams.
You could see how the Miners were going to approach this state tournament during the 6A semifinals against Lehi earlier on May 10.
For the entire tournament, the opposing JV squads absorbed the Miners varsity’s kills in warmups as volleyballs sprayed across two courts and up into the bleachers where the crowds sat.
In a way, it was like you were watching Shaq and The Super Lakers until the matches started—except instead of delivering dunks Miners’ players were doling out punishment, pummeling the poor court with all their might.
Bingham [25-4, 9-1 Region 2] stuffed a kill from Lehi to start the first set and yet dropped five of the next six points. After a timeout, Bingham went to work, executing vicious kills.
The Miners went on an 8-1 run before Lehi scored a point. Methodically, Bingham destroyed the Pioneers’ will and yet Lehi climbed back in the set before the Miners put their opponents away, 25-18.
In the second set, Bingham might have been blasting kills so hard that a piece of the court pried loose and had to be repaired while Lehi led, 21-22.
When play resumed, the Miners took the second set with a kill from the top of the court, 27-25.
That set the Miners up for a shot at a sweep. Would they reach out and grab it by the grooves in the volleyball?
For context, Bingham swept Corner Canyon in the 6A state quarterfinals Friday May 9, 25-21, 25-19 and 25-20.
To begin the state tournament May 9, the Miners also blasted Weber in three straight sets, 25-19, 25-13 and 25-16.
Against Lehi in the 6A semifinals though, Bingham faced its toughest test to date. In the second set, the Miners needed a little divine intervention from a court that needed a little fixing before pulling away from Lehi and winning it.
As the third set began, Lehi jumped out to a 9-5 lead. Bingham scored three straight points on blocks and then traded the next three points, trailing by the score of 9-11.
It got worse for the Miners as they fell behind 10-14, forcing Chamberlain to call a timeout to resettle his boys who were spraying their kill attempts out of bounds.
It worked. Bingham got the next two points to climb to within 12-14 on blocks from the net.
Lehi called a timeout after the Miners went on a 7-2 run, driving their kill attempts inside the court’s boundaries to take a 17-16 lead.
Bingham was eight points away from a berth in its first state championship game; would this be the moment that the Miners put it all together for the first time in four years?
It would be. Bingham forced another timeout from Lehi, digging up several kill attempts to deliver devastating thumps of their own over the other side of the net for a 22-20 advantage and won the match by the final score of 25-18, 27-25 and 25-22 to move on to that game for all the marbles.
In many ways, the Miners were simply showing their mentality, one that the
new coach who came from Olympus High dug up and retooled.
They wore goggles and they were multi-sport athletes. They were new to the sport and they weren’t. They didn’t post individual stats because they perhaps didn’t need them.
They silenced all their critics and finished No. 2 in Utah and No. 21 in the nation.
They were, in all ways, shapes and forms, a team.
In numerical order, the 2024-25 Bingham Miners boys’ volleyball team was: JJ Faivaee, Jerico Jones, Seth Bushell, Brody Siddoway, Logan Holt, Spencer Smith, Dominic Morrison, Derek Peterson, Garrett Bearden, Alex Goncalves, Jackson Whitehead and Ethan Peterson. l
The 2025 6A state champion Bingham boys volleyball team. (Photo courtesy Ben Chamberlain)
Working together to plan for the future
Utah’s Wasatch Front is growing faster than almost any other region in the nation, and nowhere is that more evident than here in Salt Lake County. Today, more than 2.8 million Utahns—over 80% of our state’s population—live along the Wasatch Front and Back. By 2050, we’re on track to nearly double that number, reaching around 5 million Utahns. Protecting the quality of life that drew families, businesses and adventurers to our valleys and mountains in the first place means making smart, coordinated choices right now.
Utah was recently recognized as the best state in the nation by U.S. News & World Report for the third consecutive year. While we have so many great things going for us—a strong economy, volunteerism, social capital and incredible people—one of the things that helps with our success is our willingness to work together.
When it comes to planning for the future, it’s vital that we collaborate at each level of government. I’m proud to be a board member for a planning body that does just this. Wasatch Front Regional Council (WFRC) brings together elected leaders and staff from the state, counties and cities across our region. WFRC ensures that transportation investments, land-use decisions and economic development strategies all align with a shared vision—what we call the Wasatch Choice Vision.
The Wasatch Choice Vision is organized around four key strategies:
1. Real Transportation Choices - Expand travel options beyond the single-occupancy vehicle. By investing in transit, bike networks, sidewalks and more efficient roadways, we help everyone—from commuters to families running errands—get where they need to go safely and affordably.
5
habits
Get your mind and body in summer mode to enjoy the season.
By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com
June is the perfect time to refresh routines and build healthier habits. Prioritizing well-being will lift your energy and allow you to enjoy activities during the summer months. Starting habits now will create an enjoyable summer where you feel vibrant, engaged and ready to get the most out of every sunshine-filled day.
When starting new habits, start small, stay consistent and be patient. Create a supportive environment and notice the wins. Even accomplishing one goal is a reason to celebrate.
Prioritize hydration. As boring as it might sound, staying hydrated offers myriad benefits. Water increases brain function, assists digestion, alleviates headaches, regulates body temperature and enhances physical performance. Average guidelines show drinking 8-10 cups of water each day is optimal for body and brain function.
To build this habit, purchase a reusable water bottle and set a reminder to drink throughout the day. For added flavor, infuse water with lemon, berries or cucumber. Get a metabolism boost by drinking a cup of water first thing in the morning.
Create a morning movement routine. When you start your day with exercise, the benefits last all day. Morning movement has been shown to raise energy, boost your mood, increase productivity, reduce the risk of disease
Aimee Winder Newton Salt Lake County Councilwoman| District
3
2. Housing Options for All - Encourage development patterns and zoning that support a wide range of housing types—single-family neighborhoods, starter homes, workforce apartments and townhomes—so that people at every stage of life can find a place to call home that’s close enough to jobs, schools and services.
3. Plentiful Parks and Open Spaces - Preserve and enhance parks, trails and open land for recreation, environmental protection and community gathering. These green assets keep our air and water clean, support mental and physical health, and maintain the outdoor lifestyle Utahns cherish.
4. Vibrant City and Town Centers - Strengthen walkable downtowns and neighborhood hubs where people can live, work, shop and play. By focusing growth in these centers, we relieve pressure on suburban and rural areas, reduce drive times and foster stronger social connections.
No two communities are identical. What succeeds in Sandy or South Jordan might look different than what works in Murray or West Valley City. That’s why WFRC’s member jurisdictions—from the state Department of Transportation to Salt Lake County and its constituent cities—work side by side to adapt the Wasatch Choice Vision’s strategies to local circumstances, ensuring each community charts its own course while staying connected to its neighbors.
Putting the Wasatch Choice Vision into action will have concrete impacts right away—and pay dividends for decades: more jobs, conserved open space, less water used, billions saved in infrastructure costs, and reduced household budgets through more housing and transportation options. This translates to stronger communities, healthier families and a sustainable economy that can thrive even as we welcome more neighbors—along with our children and grandchildren—to our mountain valleys.
None of this would be possible without the active partnership of the state, county planning commissions, city councils, transit agencies, business associations and civic groups. Through WFRC, these diverse interests come together at the same table—an inclusive forum where big-picture goals align with local aspirations.
I’d encourage you to learn more about the Wasatch Choice Vision. Our region’s future quality of life depends on informed, engaged residents—and on leaders who listen, collaborate and act. Visit wfrc.org to see the Vision and learn more about how to stay informed. l
to start in June for a healthier summer
and manage weight.
It doesn’t have to be a big time commitment. A 10-minute walk through a local park, a 15-minute online yoga session or five minutes of dancing can set you up for success throughout the day. If you take the practice outside, you get a bonus of sunlight exposure to raise vitamin D levels.
Incorporate fresh foods. Eating fresh produce has to be a conscious choice. Luckily, farmers markets are open again, so finding local food is much easier. Fresh foods are packed with nutrients, lower the risk of chronic disease and taste better than processed foods.
Visit Utahfarmersmarketnetwork.org to find a farmers market near you, then stock up on seasonal fruits and vegetables. Experiment with easy recipes like smoothies, salads and grilled veggies. Work your way up to having half of each meal dedicated to fresh produce.
Create recovery time. As summer activities fill our calendars, we often overschedule our time and end up fatigued. Quality rest is essential to overall well-being, aiding in physical recovery and increased mental health.
Schedule a couple of hours each week where you can do something you love. Maybe it’s hiking, reading, napping or gardening, make sure it’s something enjoyable and not a chore. If you have kiddos, maybe swap a couple of hours of child sitting with a neighbor or family member so you can enjoy a breather without distractions. Put down the screens. We give our teens grief for scrolling on their phones, but we’re often doing the same thing. Studies show that limiting screen time reduces stress, enhances creativity and enhances focus. We all
Utah’s mountains have hundreds of hiking trails. How many can you explore this summer? (Canva stock)
want to record the fun summer events, like celebrations and vacations, but looking at the world through a phone screen creates a barrier to real life.
Start small. Make a no-phone rule during meals or family activities (you can take ONE photo if you must), practice having real conversations with people around you, use app blockers, timers and trackers. Summer goes too fast to spend it staring at a phone.
BONUS TIP: Play outside! Warm days call for drinks by the swimming pool, a sunset bike ride, a breakfast picnic, outdoor readathons, pickleball games, paddleboarding, dancing on the patio, fishing in a river and discovering new hiking trails. Slather on the sunscreen and get outside. l
A Puppet Regime
It took decades, but Ronald Grump finally found a way to evict the residents of 123 Sesame Street. Grump (played by Joe Pesci) visited the TV show in 1994 with plans to demolish the beloved neighborhood to build Grump Tower.
Sesame Street doubled-down in 2005 when a selfish, orange-haired muppet, Donald Grump, tried to hire an apprentice to help with his trash empire. In the episode, Oscar the Grouch sings about Grump, “Whose name equals trash, to you and to me?”
Maybe he holds a grudge, but a U.S. president with a similar name signed an executive order to cut funding for PBS, a nonprofit provider of educational shows like Arthur, Elmo’s World and Sesame Street.
The move could throw the Muppets into the gutter. Bert will have to sell his paper clip collection, Elmo will be forced to pawn his tricycle and Count von Count will have to join an accounting firm.
From the beginning, Sesame Street championed diversity, equality and inclusion: three things the current administration is gleefully destroying. Humans on the show included Gordon and Susan (a Black couple), Maria from Puerto Rico, Luis from Mexico and the elderly Mr. Hooper, who was Jewish and ran the corner store.
The multicultural cast attracted big guest stars. Carol Burnett, Stephen Curry,
De Niro, Billie Eilish and James Earl
Jones are just a few celebrities who visited Sesame Street, proving you’re never too famous to be silly.
Not only does the show teach children basic reading and math, it also teaches cooperation, respect and kindness. It’s tackled divorce, same-sex marriage, racial literacy, anger, sadness and even has a Muppet whose parent is incarcerated. The show never talks down to children.
When Will Lee died, his Mr. Hooper character died with him, leaving Big Bird distraught as his friends tried to explain the concept of death. That episode won an Emmy, one of more than 120 Sesame Street has collected.
Sesame Street has its furry finger on the pulse of American culture. The show is as much for parents as for kids. My favorite characters are the loveable Grover and Guy Smiley, the enthusiastic gameshow host.
I can still sing the show’s theme song,
along with “Rubber Duckie,” “I Love Trash,” “Doin’ the Piegeon” and hundreds of tunes from the show. I couldn’t begin to choose a favorite skit but I always loved the baker falling down the stairs. That remains my level of humor maturity.
The show is iconic. Big Bird is an international star. He visited Michelle Obama at the White House, made the cover of Time magazine, has a star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame and his picture on a postage stamp. I spent several months cross-stitching Big Bird’s face on a Christmas advent calendar our family still uses nearly 40 years later.
Maybe it’s because Muppets don’t vote. Maybe it’s because Oscar started teaching kids about recycling. Maybe it’s the Sesame Workshop’s mission statement, “Helping
children everywhere grow smarter, stronger, and kinder.” Maybe the president just doesn’t like watching people have fun. My husband and I paid thousands of dollars in federal taxes this year, but if funding is cut for things I value, like PBS, science, national parks, higher education, Head Start programs and world health initiatives, maybe I don’t have to pay taxes anymore. I mean, seeing all these tax-free billionaires… tax evasion isn’t a crime anymore, right?
Sesame Street promotes kindness and community, while the president seems to only find value in wealth and power. As he said in 2011, “Part of the beauty of me is that I am very rich.” For anyone who’s ever loved Sesame Street, beauty has a much deeper meaning.
Robert
