Utah terrain makes weather forecasting a daunting task for South Jordan meteorologist
By Tom Haraldsen | t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com
The National Weather Service has four sites in the Salt Lake Valley to help in forecasting for Utah and surrounding areas.
Fewpeople have jobs where what they do and think can affect everyone around them, changing their schedules and altering travel plans. Darren Van Cleave is one of them.
As Meteorologist in Charge with the National Weather Service in Salt Lake City, the South Jordan resident is among a team of scientists and specialists issuing forecasts for residents of the Beehive state and surrounding areas. The task is daunting due to the complex terrain in Utah.
He grew up in rural eastern Oregon near Pendleton, and as a young man was always curious about weather.
“I specifically wanted to know how much snow we might get at our house,” he said. “I watched a lot of TV weather forecasts, as well as reading our newspaper closely each day. It was how I learned about the National Weather Service and how taxpayer dollars were used to prepare and protect us from inclement weather. When it comes to public safety related to weather, the NWS is the authority.”
moved to Sacramento, then to Missoula, Montana, where he served as science and education officer for the NWS office. Four years ago, they came back to Salt Lake City, a place still near and dear to him from his collegiate days.
“I’m a huge Ute fan,” Van Cleave said. “We would often travel back to Salt Lake City to watch Utah football games, probably at least once every year. And the other thing that’s unique is we have four different sites for the weather service within about a 10 mile radius–local and regional teams that help oversee all offices in the West.”
In Van Cleave’s site near Salt Lake International Airport, there’s a weather forecast office, the river forecast center for anything that flows into the Great Salt Lake or contributory to the Colorado River, and flight forecasts. A lot of information geared for very different audiences.
Utah’s terrain provides Van Cleave and his coworkers with unique challenges.
“We’ve altered the climate and created urban heat islands, which makes temperatures warmer in the summers. That is just a statistical fact.”
— Darren Van Cleave
He came to the University of Utah to earn an undergraduate degree, then finished graduate school at Colorado State University. His first job was in Rapid City, South Dakota, where he met his future wife Rachael who worked in broadcast journalism. They subsequently
“The intersection of weather with mountains is one of the problems I really enjoy facing,” he said. “From my home in Daybreak, for example, I look up at Lone Peak, or towards the Oquirrhs, and can see it snowing there but not here in my yard. Complex terrain, specifically the mountains, makes forecasting very tough. A big storm here could mean 2 inches of snow in one part of the valley and 24 inches somewhere else.”
That can be caused by what’s called a “rain shadow,” where a southwest flow into the valley can be affected by the Oquirrhs
and cause great variances in who gets the precipitation and who doesn’t.
“The Great Basin to our west can modify weather heavily,” he said. “It can shred a storm. We don’t have the most variable weather in the country, but our terrain makes predictability more difficult.”
The NWS system breaks every part of the state into pixels equal to about 2-½ kilometers squared–about a mile and quarter. For example, it takes 15 of those pixels to cover all of the area of Daybreak.
“The public can click on the map located at weather.gov/slc and see the forecast for that
specific pixel,” he said. “It operates 24/7 all year and gives you exact forecasts for a trail you want to hike or a lake you want to fish. It can give you the probability of rain or snow on that site, wind and temperature conditions, and it’s completely climatized for the elevation. There’s a lot more science to weather forecasting than most people realize.”
One thing that Van Cleave believes is that climate change is real.
“We’ve altered the climate and created urban heat islands, which makes temperatures warmer in the summers,” he said. “That is just a statistical fact.”l
Darren Van Cleave serves as Meteorologist in Charge at the National Weather Service in Salt Lake City. (Photo courtesy Darren Van Cleave)
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Throughout the month of October, surprise Halloween Family Photo Ops were located in Downtown Daybreak.
By Laura Crapo l.crapo@mycityjournals.com
Families and neighborhood groups in the Daybreak community got a jump start on the Halloween spirit. Their outdoor decorations are better than ever. This homespun enthusiasm has been infectious. Those unsure of how to participate have been encouraged by the individual style and creativity of others.
Spooky and fun plans were scheduled in advance for all in Daybreak and South Jordan residents. Fall Fest at Downtown Daybreak has been the perfect way to celebrate the Halloween season with family and friends. The mix of free events and special ticketed experiences provided plenty of opportunities for participants to make memories this October.
The Mad Hatter’s Whimsical Wonderland on Oct. 3 let kiddos enjoy a wonderful evening. The guests were able to meet Alice, the Mad Hatter, the Red Queen, the Cheshire cat, and Card Soldiers on stilts. The White Rabbit even made an appearance. They also enjoyed free face painting, balloons, games, prizes, giant chess and a tea party photo opportunity.
The Corbin Maxey Animal Show on Oct. 10 was next. This animal expert returned for a free Halloween-themed animal show at America First Square. The audience was able to see snakes, owls and other fascinating creatures up close. After the show, audience members stayed for a meet-and-greet with Maxey and his animal friends.
A popular ticketed event on Oct. 11, 12, and 16 were Salt Lake Bees baseball games.
Halloween thrives in Daybreak
They were labeled in Spanish as ‘Beisbol.’ These exhibition games featured the Venados de Mazatlán vs. Charros de Jalisco. A youth clinic, live music, dancing and food were part of these special nights. Plus, a drone and fireworks show lit up the night on Saturday and fans enjoyed a post-game base walk on Sunday. These Salt Lake Bees baseball games featured the popular animated Coco show. This show focuses on maintaining ties with deceased loved ones in a friendly, music-filled way.
Throughout the month of October, surprise Halloween Family Photo Ops were located in Downtown Daybreak. Daybreak residents can connect through Instagram @downtowndaybreak to keep up on local events.
The fun continued with the Pirate Pumpkin Party on Oct. 17. Captain Jack Sparrow and his crew sailed into America First Square aboard the Black Pearl. Daybreak and visiting families enjoyed pumpkin decorating, treasure hunting, crafts, face painting, balloons, games and prizes. It was a swash-buckling success.
An annual tradition was born with the Monster Mash Dance | on Oct. 20. Families were invited to Downtown Daybreak’s first Halloween Dance Party. The kids enjoyed creepy crafts, face painting, balloons, games, prizes and surprise character appearances.
Toy Box Time was an event where families were able to meet beloved animated characters at the Downtown Daybreak playground on Wednesday, Oct. 22. They enjoyed seeing a spaceman, cowboy, cowgirl, dream girl and army guys. This event also included games, photos and playtime before heading over to Hires for a classic burger or milkshake. The complex playtime was a success as the kids interacted with their favorite characters.
The month ended with a classic witch filled appearance. The Sanderson Sisters
show took place at America First Square on Saturday, Oct. 25. The infamous witches, Winnie, Mary and Sarah Sanderson from the wonderful Halloween movie Hocus Pocus were the stars of the show. They were joined by the Caldron Crew and Salamanders for a night of live entertainment. Families of Halloween enthusiasts enjoyed free crafts, face painting, balloons, games and prizes. It was a spooky good night!
Dining with Villains at one of the finest new Daybreak restaurants, Moena Café took place on Oct. 28. This ticketed dinner event invited guests to enjoy a vil-
lain-themed evening with a special menu. They always provide guests to savor the flavors of Hawaii with fresh ingredients. Moena Café showed their spookiest and most delicious specialties that night and it was a tasty success!
Family and friends can always stay informed when planning their Downtown Daybreak visits. The mix of free events and special ticketed experiences offered plenty of opportunities to enjoy the community and make memories. Visit downtowndaybreak.com/events for event updates and ticket information. l
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Families and neighborhood groups in the Daybreak community got a jump start on the Halloween spirit. (Laura Crapo/City Journals)
WIGHTMAN LEGAL
Local food drive fuels student success in Jordan School District
InterWest Moving & Storage partners with Jordan School District to stock school pantries and support students facing hunger.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
To honor the National Day of Service,
InterWest Moving & Storage organized a community food drive benefiting students in the Jordan School District, especially those facing food insecurity.
Grab-and-go snacks were collected at the South Jordan Parkway Walmart, with additional donation boxes placed at B Space Salon, Beddy’s, Guild Mortgage, Millrock Management and Northwestern Mutual. More than 672 pounds of food was collected.
“We’re always about getting involved with the community,” Roman Fisher said, who works in sales and business development for InterWest Moving & Storage.
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“How are kids supposed to learn if their stomachs are growling because they’re hungry? They can’t focus so we need to get them food to help propel their life forward with what they’re studying.”
One in four Jordan students qualify for reduced or free school lunch, according to Jordan Education Foundation Executive Director Mike Haynes.
Fisher connected with Jordan Education Foundation member Tracy Miller at a South Valley Chamber of Commerce meeting.
“He introduced himself and said, ‘Let’s work together on something,’” she said.
“Since the principal pantry is a big part of what the foundation does — stocking pantries at all 68 of our schools for those kids in need — he suggested a fill-the-truck event. It’s what we need to help students.”
South Jordan Parkway Walmart store manager Kevin Carlile offered his location as a drop-off site. Fisher handled logistics and rallied local businesses.
“We ran around and got some businesses involved and dropped off some boxes for donations,” Fisher said. “When I told the corporate headquarters in Idaho Falls, they were in love with the idea and wanted us to be a part of it.”
Haynes said filling school pantries is critical.
“Every year we start off with schools that have empty pantries,” he said. “We want to fill them as soon as possible.
A lot of our teachers also are stocking their classrooms with snacks. We provide classroom grants to teachers. Every teacher can get up to $500 and in the past, a lot of them have been asking for food to keep in the class for those students who need it. Now they just make it available to every-
body. It’s equalized and it’s easier for those students in need to feel better about taking food supplies and other things.”
With community support, Haynes said funds can now go further.
“We now take that money and use it in other places to make a difference. In the last couple years, we’ve given out 750 beds for students who have been sleeping on the floor in homes. It’s heartbreaking to see, but we’re grateful to help. Public education is the place to help meet a lot of needs, more than just education,” he said. “We have a great community who is willing to donate and help. Our mission is to engage the community to help provide resources that fuel success in the district and without community partners, a lot of what we do could never be possible. And it’s good for kids to see the community cares about it too, and that helps shape how they see the world.”
Haynes said 800 snack packs were recently donated — and gone the next day.
“We don’t want to create dependency on us for their meals. We want to fill a gap that exists. If kids don’t have access to food
over a weekend, we give them a weekend meal pack. During the day, those snack packs are super popular. It comes back to hungry kids during the day, and a learning curve. In the past, some kids were punished for bad behaviors without knowing why they were acting out. Now, our schools, teachers, administrators are asking questions, ‘What’s going on? How’s your morning been? Did you eat?’ Many of us access food when we need it, when we want it. Some of these kids don’t have that luxury,” he said.
Parent Liz Robinson, who has two students at West Jordan High, stopped by to donate granola bars and snacks.
“We heard about this service opportunity today and while I’m grateful we’ve never had to use a service like this, I’m thankful it is available for people who do need it, especially kids, because they have no control over when they are going to have their next meal,” she said. “We want to help make sure we’re taking care of everybody in our community.”
Fisher agrees: “This will help a lot of kids who are hungry; who better to help?”l
Jordan Education Foundation Executive Director Mike Haynes accepts a food donation, with InterWest Moving & Storage’s Roman Fisher, to fill Jordan School District’s principals’ pantries. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
South Jordan city will build a new Senior Center at The District
New Senior Center to be built in South Jordan at The District.
By Tom Haraldsen t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com
The city of South Jordan has announced plans to build a new Senior Center at The District. Plans were announced on Oct. 8 during a lunch hour at the city’s Community Center, where seniors have been meeting for lunches and activities for several years.
Mayor Dawn Ramsey was joined by developer Clark Ivory of Ivory Innovations, Nate Boyer of the Boyer Company and members of the South Jordan City Council at the announcement.
“Today marks a milestone that’s been a long time coming,” the mayor said. “For years our seniors have told us one thing loud and clear–we need a dedicated space just for us.”
She then unveiled plans for a 17,000 square foot Senior Center, purpose-built with activity rooms, art and fitness spaces, and a commercial kitchen. It will be built at The District, and will include 200 senior living spaces, 75% or more that will meet affordable housing guidelines, “so our residents can continue to call South Jordan home,” Ramsey said.
She continued by saying the location near The District means seniors will be near groceries, medical services, banking, restaurants, shopping and entertainment. The an-
nounced location was applauded by dozens of senior citizens who were at the event and enjoying their lunches.
In a city release, the project says it represents a strong partnership between the city of South Jordan, Ivory Innovations, Call to Action and The Boyer Company. The city says it has worked closely with anchor tenants at The District, including Target and J.C. Penney.
“South Jordan seniors deserve a place to connect, learn and thrive, and we’re thrilled to bring them that vision of life at The District,” Ramsey said. “This project reflects our community’s values and the city’s commitment to listening to residents while strengthening partner-
ships that benefit everyone.”
City Councilmember Don Shelton, who is liaison to the Senior Advisory Committee, said in a release that “This new Senior Center is the result of thoughtful planning and collaboration. It will not only provide a much-needed gathering place for our seniors, but also expand affordable housing options, ensuring that more residents can continue to call South Jordan home.”
No formal date for groundbreaking or construction timeline has been released, but officials said information and updates will be available on the city’s website at www.sjc.utah.gov in the coming weeks. l
South Jordan Mayor Dawn Ramsey joined with city council members and development partners to announce plans for a new Senior Center to be built at The District. (Photo courtesy South Jordan City)
An artist rendering of the new South Jordan Senior Center, which will include 200 senior housing units, with at least 75% of them meeting affordable housing guidelines. (Photo courtesy Ivory Innovations)
STEMfest sparks curiosity for all ages
Interactive exhibits, student leaders and curious minds turned out for the 11th annual event.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Amid thousands of students during the day and hundreds of families at night, an electric energy pulsed through the crowd at Utah STEMfest — and no lab coat was required.
Kids felt literal static electricity as they placed their hands on a plasma ball at the Clark Planetarium booth while others explored how electric currents work at a Rocky Mountain Power display. To cool off, they plunged their hands into insta-snow demonstrated by SheTech student leaders or touched sea stars, sea turtle shells and other marine life specimens at the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium table.
Three-year-old Poppy, brought along her 1-year-old sister, Delilah, and her dad, Jed Hall, eager to dive into the hands-on experiences available at the Mountain America Expo Center in Sandy.
“We like to do experiments at home, so I’m trying to foster a love of STEM in my little girl,” Hall said. “I hope she can
have a better understanding of the world. I want her to develop a love of learning while she’s young so she will keep it up when she’s older.”
It wasn’t just kids who were learning — volunteer Dannette Rose said she was helping because she wanted to expand her own STEM knowledge.
“I like to learn all kinds of stuff when I help; it’s a good opportunity to learn and explore,” she said.
Rose was assisting Denise Taylor, a Utah 4-H STEM and strategic partner with Utah State University. Together, they guided attendees through the Utah 4-H night sky star dome, encouraging them to look to the heavens.
“It’s important kids get exposed to lots of different things because STEM is in everything we do,” Taylor said, listing a vast array of 4-H clubs which all include STEM. “We just need to point it out to students. They can garden, and there’s science behind the soil and the growing process. They do robotics and we can talk about coding. They read Harry Potter and explore potions and wands and learn about chemical reactions and magnetic fields. When we go into elementary schools, sometimes kids say, ‘I don’t do STEM,’ but they don’t realize our world is engrossed in it, and it will be a big
part of their future and is what they can do.”
Tami Goetz, director of the Utah STEM Action Center — the organization behind the 11th annual event, agrees.
“I have seen students trying to figure
how to balance their love of STEM with other interests and passions,” she said. “My advice to them has always been that they are lucky because STEM overlaps with so many other education and career paths.l
People of all ages engaged in activities during the 11th annual STEMFest. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Bright ideas: AAI students illuminate the power of kindness
AAI students shine a light on hope, science and connection through lantern art for domestic abuse awareness walk.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
An American Academy of Innovation interdisciplinary project, “The Ripple Effect of Warmth,” tied materials from science and English/language arts into lessons of empathy and service. The culmination of their studies resulted in lantern art, which shined light on awareness and hope around the issue of domestic violence.
In the classroom, students studied heat transfer—conduction, convection and radiation—and how insultation can act as a physical barrier. But they didn’t stop at physical science. They expanded the idea of “barriers” to social issues, particularly those explored in “The Lions of Little Rock,” a novel about segregation and a friendship in 1950s Arkansas.
“We’re talking about thermal energy and heat transfer, but also how things like these lanterns spread warmth into people’s lives in a different kind of way,” AAI teacher Landon Leak said.
Students were challenged to think about how both physical and social barriers can prevent warmth, literally and figuratively. They discussed how these divides can prevent human connection and how people overcome challenges through kindness and empathy.
“We’re trying to build a kind community here,” Leak said. “We can’t always see the hidden battles, but we can always choose kindness.”
Students transformed clear 2-liter plastic bottles into “Lanterns of Light.” They creatively decorated the lanterns with tis-
sue paper and wrote “Messages of Hope,” connecting their art to the themes of the project.
These 80 lanterns were displayed at the “Walk for Hope” event on Oct. 2 at Vineyard Grove Park in Vineyard, Utah. The event, held in partnership with The Refuge, a Utah County domestic violence shelter and rape crisis center, featured a candlelight walk, music, guest speakers and domestic violence resources. There also was slated a “Light up the Night” walk in September on Utah Valley University campus.
Students also made beaded bracelets in different shades of purple, each symbolizing a different relationship to domestic violence: survivors, supporters, friends and family, and those lost, which were distributed at the walk.
In addition to the sixth-graders, AAI high school students could participate in the project.
The students not only created the lanterns, but they made connections with them.
Sixth-grader Tia Dionne used pastel colors because they “make me happy.” She added, “I love to help people and I enjoy art; it’s fun.”
Classmate Kayden Kocherhans drew inspiration from Professor Dumbledore in the “Harry Potter” series, “He said something like, ‘The light shone in the darkness even in the darkest time’ so I used dark blue to white tissue paper to give inspiration.”
Sixth-grader Clara Benson created a camouflage lantern.
“Some people wear camo because they don’t want to be seen, but I want everyone to be seen and feel loved,” she said.
Classmate Kal Troester added: “This is a unique experience. I want them to believe in themselves, to not give up. The lanterns bring warmth to our hearts.”
Sixth-graders Kennedy Arellano and Amya Redmiles tied the lesson to the book.
AAI sixth-grader Ivy Keddington created a “Lantern of Light” and writes a “Message of Hope.” (Julie Slama/City Journals)
“The book is about Marlee and how Liz helped her; I want people to have hope and offer to help,” Kennedy said. Amya added: “I want them to know they can do hard things as we learned from the book.”
Several students titled their lanterns, which were hung by a wire through the plastic.
Sixth-grader Landry Asburn’s lantern was entitled, “Joy;” “I hope people feel loved when they go through a bad time. It’s good to be nice and encourage somebody with kindness.”
Classmate Ivy Keddington called her lantern “Hope;” “I want them to feel a new beginning. Sometimes it takes time to get through stuff, but I know they have the power to make it.” l
Prepping for the Holidays Part 2: Thanksgiving
As the holiday season kicks off, our homes fill with family, laughter, and delicious food. While Thanksgiving is a time for joy and connection, it can also bring unexpected hazards for our furry friends. Here are a few simple ways to keep your pup safe and happy during the festivities:
1. Watch the Menu: Foods like turkey bones, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and chocolate are all dangerous for dogs. Keep plates and leftovers out of reach, and remind guests not to share scraps.
2. Create a Quiet Space: With visitors and excitement, dogs can easily become overwhelmed. Set up a cozy space with their bed, favorite toy, and some calm music to help them relax.
3. Decorate with Care: Candles, seasonal plants, and décor with small parts can tempt curious pups. Keep them out of reach and ensure your home stays safe and festive.
4. Plan for Guests: Make sure everyone knows the house rules for interacting with your dog—especially kids who may be excited to play.
5. Stick to Routine: Keep mealtimes, walks, and potty breaks as close to normal as possible to help your dog feel comfortable.
If you’re hosting or traveling this holiday season and want peace of mind knowing your pup is safe and loved, Dogtopia of South Jordan is open for boarding! Give your dog their own holiday filled with play, socialization, and care while you enjoy yours stress-free. Visit www.dogtopia com and use our Store locator for your local daycare or download our app to get your Meet & Greet set up today. You will receive 3 Free Days of Daycare when you book your next boarding stay.
Ho Ho or Humdrum? Navigating Mental Health During the Holidays
Our favorite big box stores and online ads have been reminding us for weeks that the holidays are just around the corner. Happy time, right? Surprisingly the holidays can be a time of increased stress and can trigger mental health challenges for many. A 2023 survey by the American Psychological Association found that 89% of U.S. adults feel stressed during the holidays, with more than one-third indicating they experience higher stress levels during the holidays compared with other seasons. Added holiday stress can cause physical ailments, anxiety, depression, and in some cases substance misuse.
So what’s the holiday stress culprit? Well actually there are several:
Money. The holidays create budget pressures – gifts, travel, events.
Social. Family gatherings can produce awkward moments, especially when there are unresolved conflicts or pressure to follow tradition.
Busyness. Schedules can become overloaded with shopping, cooking special meals and attending holiday festivities. Sometimes with all the extra activity and disrupted routines, the holidays can be exhausting.
Loneliness. The holidays can create a heightened sense of loneliness for those who are separated from loved one or grieving a loss.
According to Dr. Jared Lambert, a CommonSpirit family medicine physician in West Jordan, there are several things we can do to manage holiday stress and even find joy in a season that is meant to be joyful.
First – Set realistic expectations. You may not cook the perfect turkey. The gift that you spent hours searching for may not elicit the magical reaction from the recipient. You may not be able to attend all the holiday events you’re invited to. That’s OK.
Second – Make time for yourself. Carve out a few moments each day during the holidays to read, get outside, meditate, and remember that the basics of self-care
– sleep, exercise, and healthy eating – still matter at this time of year.
Third – Set a budget. Having a financial plan going into the holidays helps with avoiding excessive spending. There’s nothing quite so deflating as January credit card bills that exceed what we can afford.
Fourth – Find joy in small things. Make time to talk to a friend or family member who makes you feel good. Savor that favorite side dish at Thanksgiving Dinner, listen to a favorite holiday song – and look for reasons to be grateful each day.
Fifth – Take a time out from Social Media: By limiting time on social media feeds you can reduce feelings of inadequacy by avoiding depictions of others’ perfectly curated holidays.
“The holidays can be a beautiful time, but they can also bring to the surface a lot of underlying stressors,” Dr. Lambert says. “It’s crucial to be honest with yourself about how you’re truly feeling and to allow for imperfections. Prioritize your well-being over societal pressures to create a ‘perfect’ holiday.”
If you find yourself severely struggling, reach out for help. Talk to a trusted friend, call a helpline, or visit a mental health professional.
For more information or to find a provider visit mountain.commonspirit.org
Learn more about the services, care providers and missiondriven work of the Holy Cross hospitals and CommonSpirit Health at www.holycrossutah.org.
At CommonSpirit Health, we make the healing presence of God known in our world by improving the health of the people we serve, especially those who are vulnerable, while we advance social justice for all.
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‘If Not Me, Then Who…’ — a call to serve, a path to heal
Travis Manion Foundation calls for volunteers to serve, honor and remember veterans.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
The Salt Lake City chapter of the Travis Manion Foundation is honoring Veterans Day with two community events designed to celebrate service and build connection: a veterans’ billiards tournament in Ogden and a community summit on Nov. 15 in Sandy.
The pool tournament, which attracted more than 300 people last year, will include youth programming and a local service project, said chapter leader Stephany Pina. Last year, youth wrote more than 200 notes to veterans which were distributed locally.
Just days later, the community summit will bring together veterans, families of the fallen, youth and community members to make blankets for veterans. It will be held at 9 a.m., Nov. 15 at the Gail Miller Conference Center on SLCC’s Miller Campus, 9750 S. 300 West. Register for the free event at https://donate.travismanion.org/event/fy26community-summit-salt-lake-city/e715867
“Ninety percent of the people who come to the summit have never really engaged too
much with TMF,” she said. “We talk about our projects, how we serve the community and how there’s a place for every single person who shows up.”
Founded to honor 1st Lt. Travis Manion, who was killed in Iraq in 2007, TMF challenges individuals to lead with character and serve others. The organization supports veterans, families of the fallen and youth through events and programs rooted in leadership, resilience and remembrance.
“We honor all military members — those who died in the line of duty, and those who passed away after service — because their service throughout their life is important,” she said.
While TMF is a national nonprofit with more than 780,000 veterans and survivors, 750,000 youth participants and 300,000 Spartan or consistent volunteers, chapters tailor their efforts for local needs. In Salt Lake, a five-member board organizes events with the help of 20 consistent volunteers, though some events draw nearly 100 community members.
Recently, the chapter held their fourth annual 9/11 Heroes 5K Run in South Jordan, with 76 runners and walkers participating. Salt Lake’s chapter of Team Red, White & Blue, a national nonprofit connecting veterans through physical and social activities in
the community, served as the color guard.
“We remember not just military members, but also first responders and victims of 9/11,” she said.
This year, they also held a one-mile walk/run in honor of a local service member Sean Joseph Pulley, who died while stationed at Great Lakes Naval Station — an event which drew additional community support.
The top male 5K race winner was Jordan Rolf at 19:47 and the top female was Abigail Olsen with 25:11. Top 5K ruck male was Edwin Ramirez in 26:35, followed by top female runner Angela Barnett in 30:46.
That 5K supports initiatives such as providing backpacks and supplies to students at Horizonte School. TMF also provides “Character Does Matter” program at the school, as well as Apogee School in South Jordan. Veterans and families of the fallen volunteer to teach character and leadership skills.
“We tell kids it can be as small as opening a door or being kind,” she said.
The Foundation’s programming centers around Travis Manion’s words: “If not me, then who…” For Pina, who lost her husband while he was serving in 2015, that message turned grief into purpose.
“Travis Manion Foundation empowers
you to do something with all that love you have for someone you lost. There’s nothing more healing than service,” she said.
That healing comes from connection, Pina said.
“When they lose someone to service, they also lose a community. Travis Manion Foundation helps rebuild that. You feel connected again,” she said.
Pina joined one of the Foundation’s expeditions for families of the fallen traveling to Alaska to help build cabins for children who have lost a military parent.
“I was able to help others without worrying, ‘Can I afford this?’” she said.
The chapter also supports Wreaths Across America. On Dec. 15 in Riverton, volunteers will place more than 500 wreaths on veterans’ graves; they mark graves beforehand and clean up afterward.
“We’d love more volunteers to help us with this service to honor them and we’d love to help lay wreaths at other cemeteries too,” she said.
On Memorial Day weekend, the chapter also visits Camp Williams’ cemetery, saying the names of the fallen and reflecting on their service.
To volunteer, join or learn more, email: saltlakecity@travismanion.com.l
Some racers pose before the start of the 9/11 Heroes 5K Run in South Jordan. (Photo courtesy Salt Lake City chapter of the Travis Manion Foundation)
Major leaguers score cash for homers at South Jordan event
Many former major league baseball players, professional softball stars and current collegiate players made the MLB Home Run Derby X a hit in The Ballpark at America First Square.
By Tom Haraldsen t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com
It was deja vu all over again–sort of. Just like in last year’s MLB World Series, the Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the New York Yankees during the championship of the MLB Home Run Derby X on Sept. 20. The Dodgers won 72-71 in the finals held at The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan.
This annual competition held its finals in Utah for the first time, and the groups of former Major Leaguers, professional women’s softball players and collegiate stars who came to the state were all impressed with the stadium, the fans who attended and the surroundings of the development in Downtown Daybreak. It was a large reason why the Bees’ ownership bid to get the finals in Utah.
Salt Lake Bees. These four squads adopted team names for the competition, even if they weren’t actually ever members of those MLB teams. But some were.
“Everything about this place has been wonderful,” veteran MLB star Nick Swisher said, who played on the Yankees team for HRDX. “This facility is great—probably the nicest minor league park I’ve ever played in. And the fans have been great.”
Swisher, who played for 13 seasons in MLB, including four years with the New York Yankees, four with the Oakland A’s, won a World Series title in 2009 with the Yankees and was MVP in the 2010 All Star Game, was personal and engaging, as he and teammates Todd Frazier (two time All-Star, 11 seasons in the Majors including 5 with the Cincinnati Reds, and a Little League World Series champ in 1998); and collegiate softball champion Jocelyn Alo from the University of Oklahoma (numerous conference and All-American honors) powered their way into the finals against the team representing the Dodgers.
“We’re really excited for Home Run Derby X. It’s a chance to exhibit incredible athletes, not only with MLB but also with professional women in softball and collegiate level softball players and legacy players”
“We’re really excited for Home Run Derby X. It’s a chance to exhibit incredible athletes, not only with MLB but also with professional women in softball and collegiate level softball players and legacy players,” Michelle Smith said, executive vice president of Miller Sports + Entertainment.
— Michelle Smith
“To bring them into this ballpark, that’s brand new, and in Salt Lake City and in Utah just seems so fitting, especially this time of year–it couldn’t be better baseball weather. And so we’re really excited to be given this opportunity to host the finals.”
The premise is simple. Teams of three players take their swings to see how many home runs they can hit in 2-½ minutes–in this case, over the right field wall at the ballpark. Their opponents play in the outfield and can score points by catching flies that don’t clear the fence. Over the first two rounds of the event, where eight teams begin, four advance to the semifinals and two make the finals. Hundreds of baseballs were knocked to eager fans sitting on the grass berms behind the right field wall.
Four teams made Saturday’s semifinals–the Yankees, Dodgers, Nationals and
Those Dodgers players included MLB superstar Adrian Gonzalez, a five-time All Star who played for the Dodgers, Padres, Red Sox, Rangers and Mets; Mya Perez, a junior softball player from Texas A&M who broke the school’s single season record with 73 RBIs and batted .424 this past season while earning all-conference honors; and Grady Emerson, a high school star from Argyle, Texas who was the youngest player this year and is considered a number one pick for the MLB draft–though he’s committed to play at the University of Texas next year.
The Dodgers defeated the Bees 62-53 in one semi, the Yanks beat the Nationals 71-69 in the other, setting the stage for the finals, where the Dodgers edged the Yanks on a home run by Frasier. The winning team split a $150,000 prize.
“I’ve had a couple pull me aside to tell me we have an incredible ballpark and offer congratulations,” Smith said. “We had a goal of creating a gathering place for baseball that felt like the major leagues but was in minor league baseball. We continue to get that feedback even as these professional players are coming in.”
She said the Bees’ first season in the new park, which ended in September, was a hit.
“We are thrilled by the experiences and
success of our first season here–on and off the field. Our inaugural season exceeded expectations for those that came to the ballpark. I think next season is even going to be more exciting because there will be continued development around the ballpark. So when people come next year, the experience is going to continue to develop. Excited to have people continue engaging with America First Square and with the ballpark. The feedback from every team from our postgame survey gave us such high marks. So we really accomplished everything we set out to do.”
She added that the organization’s goal when building the park was to make it a space that could be used throughout the year.
“As we go into the holidays, this is going to be transformed into this incredible light experience that you can walk through with your family,” she said. “It will have Christmas trees, music, ice skating in the plaza. We hope that people won’t just think of the ballpark during the summer. It will be a place where you’ll want to gather all year long.” l
From left, Adrian Gonzalez, Mya Perez and Grady Emerson, representing the Dodgers, were the winners of the MLB Home Run Derby X in The Ballpark at America First Square in South Jordan on Sept. 20.
(Tom Haraldsen/City Journals)
Members of the Yankees team at Home Run Derby X were, from left, Nick Swisher, Todd Frazier and Jocelyn Alo, who took home second place. (Tom Haraldsen/City Journals)
Utah Sports Hall of Fame coach hits home run for equality
After moving to Utah in junior high, Mary Kay Anderson, as she was known then, kept her eye on the ball — playing volleyball, basketball and softball at Murray High.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
It’sbeen more than 20 years since Mary Kay Amicone made history at Jordan High — the first woman in Utah to coach a high school boys’ baseball team. But Amicone, a 2025 Utah Sports Hall of Fame inductee, never set out to change the playbook for women in Utah sports. She just loved the game.
She grew up in Southern California, always in the lineup with her brothers and neighborhood kids.
“My only friends were boys in the neighborhood because I had two brothers,” Amicone said. “There were lots of opportunities for playing on teams or after-school programs where you learned how to play sports.”
Amicone’s mother, a former Orange Lionette fastpitch softball player, signed her daughter up for Bobby Sox softball at 8 — her first official at-bat in organized sports.
“It was the only organized team sport for girls at that time. I had played a lot of baseball. There often was a game of Over the Line and whoever was available would play,” she said.
“At Murray, there was only one gym and who took the gym? Of course, the guys,” she said about the mid 1970s. “In those days, they were just starting women’s sports, so we would go to Field Days and play a round robin tournament. We played in our gym suits; we didn’t have any uniforms — but we were grateful for the opportunity to play.”
Amicone kept swinging in college, playing softball at Weber State and later the University of Utah, serving as team captain at both.
“After my sophomore season, the news broke Weber State softball would no longer be sanctioned. It was devastating. They decided not to sponsor it saying it was too expensive. But honestly, softball wasn’t that expensive. We didn’t have equipment back then. We didn’t wear helmets. We had about three to four bats. We had our own gloves. The costs were uniforms and travel, so there was really no logic to it,” she said.
At the U, Amicone’s team played in the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women World Series — her first taste of postseason play on the national stage.
“It was cool to play there; it was quite an event,” she said.
saying, ‘You’re the best coach I know,’” Amicone said and conceded. “I had zero idea I’d be coaching there. I did not know that coaching boys was an option — none — but they decided I was the best candidate for the job.”
With her sons in the program’s lineup — Trevor on varsity and Derek, a freshman — Amicone found herself back in the dugout.
“At first, it wasn’t a gender thing. It became a gender thing when we started playing against other schools where, it was quoted, ‘We’re not going to lose to that woman.’ I was like, ‘Well, you’re not playing against the woman; you’re playing against our team,’” she said.
Amicone said the heckling turned ugly — and some, played out publicly.
While teaching at Riverton and Oquirrh elementaries and playing in fast pitch and slow pitch leagues, Amicone found herself in the coaching box at the U of U as an assistant. She married Marc, former U of U associate athletic director and later president of the Salt Lake Bees; his upbringing also was deeply rooted into softball and baseball.
“I loved coaching. I always felt like coaching was teaching,” she said. “I feel I was a trailblazer in women’s sports. I was one of the only coaches at the time who had children, and there were times when people doubted me. I’d say, ‘Don’t hold me back. I can do this, if you’ll let me manage that situation.’”
The Amicones’ support system — including her mother, in-laws and friends — often pinch-hit when they needed help.
During Amicone’s career, she called signals at nearly every level: Brigham Young University, Salt Lake Community College, Weber State University as well as Bingham High, where she was an assistant coach for girls basketball and softball. Her collegiate coaching record includes more than 800 wins, multiple conference titles and several trips to the postseason.
As BYU’s first softball coach in 2000, she helped the Cougars clinch the Mountain West title in their second season. But after a “difference of philosophies” with the women’s athletic director, Amicone walked away from the program.
Around that time, life threw her a curveball — the sudden death of her younger brother, the last surviving member of her family, from a brain aneurysm.
“I was really down. I wasn’t sure I wanted to coach again so I was going to go back to elementary school teaching,” Amicone remembered.
Then Jordan High’s athletic director, Marc Hunter, made a clutch call. He urged her to apply to be the school’s baseball coach.
“I said, ‘I don’t think so.’ He went on,
“Your son shouldn’t be hit by a pitch because his mom is the coach. Anytime he (Trevor) was in the game, the message was sent. I had this conversation with him: ‘If they pitch inside, just roll in and own it. You’ll get on base.’ It was very hard for him,” Amicone said. “It was poor for the opposing team because those young men had role models with gender issues, and they set the tone; they were an embarrassment to be called coaches.”
Despite the challenges, the team made a run for the title, finishing second in state. That’s when Amicone got the call to return to softball — at SLCC.
“I sat down with Trevor and told him I was proud of the way he handled the season, but then I asked him, ‘What do you feel like is the best decision for me and for you?’” she said.
He encouraged his mom to accept the coaching job at SLCC where she lead the Bruins to seven conference titles in nine seasons.
“I left Jordan’s program in a great spot. The next year, they won state. It was incredible to watch and fun to know I was a part of the grassroots of this championship team,” she said.
To Amicone, good coaching is good coaching — regardless of who’s on the roster.
“As a coach, you want to bring out the best in them. I coach them hard; that’s what I know. Kids need guidance,” she said.
Now retired, Amicone is still active — trading cleats for court shoes with pickleball and racquetball and enjoying life as a grandmother. But her clubhouse includes her former players.
“I’d like to think if we could all relate to one another as team members and be a good team member in society, we’d be much better,” she said. “With my teams, I don’t have to be their coach anymore, but the relationships can continue as friends.”
In late September, several former players and coaches were part of Amicone’s team, celebrating her induction into the Utah Sports Hall of Fame. l
Mary Kay Amicone speaks to the crowd during her 2025 Utah Sports Hall of Fame induction. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Miners boys golfers finish fourth at 6A state tournament
It is Bingham’s highest team finish in several years, highlighted by two Miners in the Top 20 .
From an individual standpoint, Bingham also had some standout performances. Senior Krew Heward birdied five holes in the first round, seventh-best among all golfers. But, four double bogeys cost him a spot in the Top 10
season, was steady in the first round at Sleepy Ridge. He hit even on 12 of his first 18 holes of golf to land himself in 36th place with a 76. After that, he parred nine of his last 18 to finish at 77, and remained in 36th for the tournament.
The Bingham Miners 2025-26 golf team is: Will Barrick, Preston Jack, Parker Young, Krew Heward, Champ Carlson, Connor Oettli, Sean Robison, Charles Stevens, David Peirce, Jack Stevens, Abram Never, Carter Cantwell, Conklin Thompson, Linken Cromar, Caleb Bennion, Carter Orme, William Johnson, Luke Wright, Landon Jack, Oscar Passey, Case Hasegawa, Garrett Young, Tadashi Miyasaki and Tate Kirkham.l
Bingham golf finished fourth at the state tournament. (Flickr)
Bingham girls soccer limps into the state playoffs, is eliminated in play-in game
Miners receive No. 16 seed and spot in the play-ins but loses to Westlake 2-0.
By Brian Shaw b.shaw@mycityjournals.com
For the first time in over a decade, the Bingham Miners girls soccer team needed a new head coach.
They opted for Josh Maxfield, who spent time on both the boys and girls teams at Bingham as an assistant.
The No. 16 Miners lost 2-0 to 17-seed Westlake Oct. 9 in the 6A state play-in game.
Coach Maxfield had his girls playing well in early August; they won three of their first four games in preseason with him in charge.
That’s when the wheels fell off.
Right as the Miners’ Region 2 campaign started, Bingham lost three of its next four.
Things would not turn around until after Bingham had suffered a 3-2 loss at Region 2 newcomer Cedar Valley on Sept. 4, a 5-2 shellacking against Riverton at home Sept. 6, and a 4-2 loss to Herriman on Sept. 11, also at home.
If this sounds like a broken record, the
good news is that the Miners almost won Sept. 16 but lost 2-1 at Mountain Ridge. A 4-0 loss to Copper Hills back in South Jordan had to feel humbling Sept. 18.
The good news? Bingham appeared to figure out how to align after a rough start in which the Miners were 1-5 over their first six games.
The Miners would get their first win since they last played Salt Lake Academy and won 4-1 by defeating the same team they beat for their first victory in league play. A 1-0 win over the Academy Sept. 23 was narrower this time around, and took until overtime to get. Bergan Anderson had the lone tally for Bingham and Claire Bennion the shutout.
Two days later on Sept. 25 at Westlake gave the Miners two solid performances in a row in 48 hours; they lost 1-0 but had several chances to tie the game and send it to overtime.
On four days rest, Bingham was well rested and at home Sept. 30 against Cedar Valley. Bennion was back in goal for the first half and took to the field in the second. She scored once and assisted on senior Tessa Firmage’s goal in a 2-0 win. Junior Norah Obed and Bennion each received half-credit for the shutout.
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For Bingham (6-12, 4-10 Region 2), that victory over Cedar Valley marked the most goals the Miners scored in one game in over three weeks.
That momentum nearly carried Bingham to a victory at rival Riverton Oct. 2, but the rivals scored in overtime to hand the Miners a 2-1 loss. Riverton struck first, early in the second half of the game. Then Bizzy Cottle tallied for the Miners on an assist by Kenzlie Binks, sending the game into extra time.
The Miners would close out the regular season needing a win at Herriman Oct. 7. Bingham took a 2-1 victory at their rivals on first half goals from senior Marley Porter, assisted by freshman Ada Smith and senior Bergan Anderson.
On the season, Smith, Cottle and Porter all scored four goals apiece to lead the Miners, while the freshman Smith led Bingham in assists with four, followed by Binks and Anderson. Scoring two goals apiece for the Miners were Mikelle Walker, Binks, Bennion, Pace and Anderson. Firmage, Sofia Davis and Kara Munsey scored one. Natalia Saechao led the team in shutouts, followed by Bennion and Nora Obed. l
people@thecityjournals.com
Bingham girls flag football launches with success
The NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders launched a league here in Utah, and the Miners have so many players they were asked to form two teams.
By Brian Shaw b.shaw@mycityjournals.com
Withthe news that the silver-and-black were bringing girls flag football to town in September came changes that some high school programs were forced to make to their teams.
“The launch of the inaugural girls flag football season is a game-changer for many youth athletes, and we are truly appreciative of the (NFL’s Las Vegas) Raiders partnership,” Darby NeVille said, president of the Utah High School Girls Football Association. “This partnership gives girls across the state the opportunity to experience the excitement, teamwork and life lessons that flag football offers on and off the field.”
Though the league itself is still not sanctioned by the Utah High School Athletics and Activities Association, or UHSAA, Bingham had so much interest and had so many girls try out for flag football that after it played two games, a decision was made to form two Miners teams.
Credit for that excitement would have to go in large part to Bingham’s girls’ tackle football program, which has been formed for several years now, and has graduated more than 100 kids.
That level of support enabled the Miners to defeat their first two opponents in the new GFA, a 21-14 victory over Park City’s red team on Sept. 15 and a 14-12 win Sept. 22 against Granger.
After Timpview was forced to disband one of its teams after week 2, Bingham’s staff was approached by the league and agreed to split its team into two separate squads, Blue and White.
Bingham joined Park City, which was the first high school to split their teams before the season started, in that regard.
Once play got underway with two Bingham teams in week 3, the Miners’ White team lost 66-20 to Skyridge on Sept. 29, and the Miners’ Blue fell to Park City’s black team, 52-12.
There will likely be a period of adjusting to playing games with two Bingham Miners girls flag teams instead of just one, and yet there must be some admiration for a Bingham program that doesn’t appear to be turning kids away from a sport that often doesn’t have the best reputation when it comes to player safety.
Playing flag football, a sport wholly endorsed – and coached by – BYU and NFL legend Steve Young certainly puts parental
concerns more at ease. Furthermore, to have someone the caliber of USC and NFL coaching legend Pete Carroll, who is currently the head coach of the Raiders, providing some level of support doesn’t hurt, either.
Nor does the fact that wearing football or soccer cleats are merely recommended, a mouthguard is required, and soft-shell headgear is optional in order to play the game.
With teams stretched out as far as Maple Mountain in Springville to the south of Utah County to the Salt Lake Valley that has three
schools participating in year one and east in Park City, there appears to be great interest in the league despite its unsanctioned status.
In all, 10 teams and eight schools are playing girls flag football in year one. At press time, the three Utah County schools sit at the top of the standings at 3-0, followed by the Miners’ Blue and White teams that stand at 2-1.
Play in this inaugural girls high school flag football season will continue through the month of October. The final week of the season will take place the week of Nov. 3. l
Girls flag football started in September. (Flickr)
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Turning Down the Political Temperature
The recent shooting of Charlie Kirk was a wake-up call for Americans who value free speech. What drives someone to fear opposing views so deeply that violence feels justified? If we want to cool our nation’s overheated politics, each of us can start with three changes.
1. Don’t call names or label the other side. Our country was founded on the belief that open debate makes us stronger. The Founders argued fiercely when crafting the Constitution—and that was healthy. But when disagreement turns into name-calling, the conversation collapses. History shows that dehumanizing language can fuel tragedy; in Rwanda, propaganda that labeled the Tutsis as “cockroaches” helped spark genocide.
Calling people “evil” or “dangerous” never changes minds. Respectful discussion does. Express your beliefs firmly but without vilifying others. The moment you deny someone dignity, your argument loses power. One way to rebuild civility is to teach debate skills in middle school and high school class -
Aimee Winder Newton
Salt Lake County Councilmember| District 3
rooms so the next generation learns how to disagree productively.
2. Listen more than you speak. None of us is right all the time. Listening with empathy to those who see things differently can preserve friendships and strengthen our communities. Try this: ask someone with an opposing political view to explain their perspective for 5-10 minutes. Repeat back what you heard, thank them, and resist the urge to argue. It’s hard—but it’s how understanding begins. During my 12 years on the Salt Lake County Council, I’ve served on a body that’s often split almost evenly between Republicans and Democrats. We debate
passionately, sometimes disagree strongly, yet still shake hands afterward. We recognize that each member represents different constituents and experiences. Even when votes fall along party lines, mutual respect keeps us working together. I’m proud of that example of civil governance.
3. Recognize how you’re being manipulated. Social media algorithms are designed to provoke emotion, not inform. Once a platform detects your political leanings, it floods your feed with fear or anger-inducing content to keep you scrolling— and advertisers paying. Limit your time online.
Keep in mind that each side is driven by this algorithm that fuels the flame of conviction. We question how the other side can be so out of touch, yet they simply don’t see what we see. Those on the other end of the political spectrum have never been shown the version of the story we know. Perhaps we are both right, but perhaps we are both wrong. It’s time to pause before the contempt destroys our country.
Cable news isn’t much better. Filling 24 hours of airtime pushes networks to amplify outrage and tailor coverage to partisan audiences. Try this experiment: if you watch a story on Fox News, switch to MSNBC for the other perspective, or vice versa. The truth may lie somewhere in between.
As we navigate the future, it’s important that we put down our phones, turn off the TV, and talk to real people. Human connection improves mental health and builds relationships. When the political climate feels toxic, step away from social media and find a friend to visit with—no debating required.
Our democracy depends on citizens who can disagree without demeaning, listen without shouting, and stay informed without being manipulated. By resisting name calling, listening with empathy, and unplugging from outrage, we can help lower the temperature, strengthen our communities, and set an example for the next generation that is watching us closely.
Life and Laughter - Embracing the Darkness (With Mashed Potatoes)
It’s not a good sign when a season has its own mental disorder, but here we are, entering the dark, cold, abysmal days of post-Daylight Saving Time when Seasonal Affective Disorder destroys all joy. Darkness descends like a roiling thunderstorm in a fantasy novel, erasing all sunshine and leaving us cowering in the cellar.
My husband thinks I’m dramatic, but I tell him to stop calling me names, as I drape across the fainting couch, gently dabbing my tears with a silken handkerchief.
Anyway.
This year, Seasonal Affective Disorder has been changed to Seasonal Affective Despair as we watch the nation’s slow descent into malevolence and madness. Night falls immediately after lunch, pajamas are my goto wardrobe and my serotonin levels drop as quickly as my faith in humanity.
As we move toward winter, light deprivation should be considered a national crisis. Maybe we need a Vitamin D shot mandate or, at least, red light therapy lamps to replace all street lighting. Utah recently eliminated fluoride in the water; could we add a dash of Xanax?
I know there’s a fine line between hibernation and hiding, but maybe the bears have it right. Spend the summer and fall eating ev-
SOUTH JORDAN
Peri Kinder Life and Laughter
erything in sight, yank fresh salmon right out of the river, compete for the World’s Fattest Bear and then sleep until the sun returns.
Therapists recommend regular exercise, a healthy diet and sufficient sleep to improve mental health and reduce Seasonal Affective Despair symptoms, but nobody listens to their therapist; otherwise, we wouldn’t be in this national mess.
Someone on TikTok suggested organizing craft projects to get me through the dark months, but my closet is already full of discarded creations, including featherless pinecone turkeys and the unfinished baby blanket I was making for my first grandchild (who is now 21).
As I sorted through a tangle of thread from my last embroidery project and a cubic pound of glitter I bought when I thought making glitter angels with the grandkids was a good idea, I decided starting something
new wasn’t a good idea. Plus, I still have glue gun scars from my Halloween projects.
Maybe I can spend the next few months snuggled with a book by the fireplace (if we had a fireplace), enjoying a bowl of minestrone (just kidding, my husband hates soup) and trying to live with someone who hates soup.
I’ll be poppin’ melatonin gummies like, well, like gummies, and giving it my best to be optimistic in a season created when a god of the underworld kidnapped a young girl and held her hostage for six months. On a coincidentally bright note, pomegranates are back in stores.
At least Thanksgiving is coming up, when I can get my emotional support food: mashed potatoes.
As we move toward the end of the year, November offers an invitation to look back at the previous months to see…nope…never mind. Don’t do that if you’re looking for sunshine and rainbows. In fact, maybe throw your phone in the Great Salt Lake (if it still had water), disconnect from the internet, delete your social media pages and go off-grid until May.
Mentally prepare yourself to spend several months trapped in a home with kids, or grandkids, who won’t stop saying, “6-7” or muttering Italian Brainrot nonsense.
Maybe this year’s Seasonal Affective Despair will be the start of my superhero origin story. When the light finally returns, I’ll stumble into the sunshine, wearing wrinkled pajamas and gripping a glue gun, ready to battle the forces of evil.
