UTAH’S FIRST ALL-WHEELS PARK OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
By Rebecca Olds | rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com
All types of man-powered wheels are welcome at Utah’s “ultimate destination for non-motorized wheeled recreation,” including skateboards, bikes, wheelchairs, roller blades and more.
The first of its kind in Utah, the West Jordan Wheels Park and hundreds of people celebrated the grand opening of its first phase on Saturday, Oct. 12 with free snow cones, food trucks, prizes and more.
As part of the wheeled portion of the larger park, the roughly 153,000-square-foot park portion features grindable I-beams, a large street plaza and more.
The all-wheels park is part of the larger Ron Wood Park located at 8600 S. and Ron Wood Park Road, east of the pickleball fields. Different park features will expand across 95 acres including new soccer fields just to the west of the wheels park that will start construction next year, followed by a recreation center and multiple bike trails.
“This larger area will become a regional recreation complex that will draw people from all over Salt Lake County,” Korban Lee said, West Jordan’s chief administrative officer. “We’re very, very excited about that.”
West Jordan resident Bruce Johnson and his family live about half a mile from Ron Wood Park and are frequent visitors to the pickleball courts and bike trails through the park.
“We’re really waiting for the overpass to open,” Johnson said, “so we don’t have to worry about Bangerter Highway— crossing Bangerter with a bike is treacherous.”
The park received funding primarily from West Jordan
Continued page 4
Kids, teens and adults alike celebrate the grand opening of the first phase of the new All Wheels Park at Ron Wood Park in West Jordan by riding scooters, bikes, skateboards and more through the inaugural banner. (Rebecca Olds/City Journals)
Early Detection is Key: Breast Cancer Signs, Symptoms and Next Steps
By Cara Guilfoyle, MD
t likely isn’t a stretch to say that you know someone who has had to battle breast cancer within their lifetime, or maybe you have even been diagnosed with it yourself. With the new age of social media, stories of survival and those walking through their breast cancer diagnosis and treatment journey may be inundating your feeds. These stories of hope can certainly be inspiring but may also feel a bit unsettling.
So, what do you need to know about breast cancer and how can you be sure that you’re on top of your health? Let’s start with what breast cancer is and how it occurs - breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow out of control in one or both breasts. These cancer cells can spread to nearby tissues and form a mass called a tumor. The cells can spread within the breast, to nearby lymph nodes and other tissues, and to other parts of the body.*
“We are lucky that breast cancer is, for the most part, very treatable,” said Cara Guilfoyle, MD, FACS, Breast Surgeon and Medical Director for CommonSpirit Medical Group –Specialty Care in Utah.
Dr. Guilfoyle stresses the importance of getting yearly 3D mammograms beginning at 40 years old, “mammograms can find breast cancer on an average about five years earlier than you can feel it.” You do not need your physician to write you a prescription or complete
an order form for you to have a screening mammogram - you can self-request to make an appointment for your annual mammogram.
“It is important to stay current with your breast cancer screening because finding breast cancer at an early stage allows more treatment options and a better opportunity for long-term survival,” said Dr. Guilfoyle. “Early detection allows for much less aggressive treatment (for example, omitting chemo and/or radiation).”
Women with a strong family history of breast cancer should talk to their doctor about genetic testing and risk assessments as some high-risk women can start breast imaging earlier.
While it is important to know your family history and risk… Dr. Guilfoyle shares that family history doesn’t tell us everything. “About 75-85% of women (three out of four) diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history or known risk factors.”
So, what should you look out for when doing self-assessments? Dr. Guilfoyle says that you should “never ignore a new lump!” Other possible indicators for cancers can include:
•New skin dimpling
•Skin changes
•Nipple retraction
•Nipple rash
•Nipple discharge
•Lump under the armpit
When things go
“At Holy Cross Hospital - Jordan Valley, we have state of the art equipment, including breast MRI, 3D mammogram, SAVI scout for localizations and a soon-to-come Trident for intraoperative specimen imaging,” said Dr. Guilfoyle. “Our multidisciplinary team presents each breast cancer patient to a tumor board and allows for a collaborative academic discussion to formulate the most appropriate personalized treatment plan.”
We strive to exemplify all five of CommonSpirit’s core values of compassion, inclusion, integrity, excellence and collaboration when treating each and every one of our patients. If you are interested in seeing Dr. Guilfoyle at Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley or Holy Cross Hospital – Mountain Point, you may call 385-345-3555 to make an appointment.
“I love being in a field that allows me to make a huge impact on patients’ lives,” said Dr. Guilfoyle. “I try to exude optimism and empower women to tap into the strength they need to face their challenge, and to reinforce that they are not alone!”
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.
Cara Guilfoyle, MD
CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital - Jordan Valley
City in partnership with Rio Tinto Kennecott and from the Utah Office of Outdoor Recreation, but is expected to draw in crowds from across Salt Lake County.
Lee said it was a community-wide effort to get the park to what it is today and what it will be.
Local skaters and skater groups, such as the Utah Skate Park Advocacy Group, Northwest Skater and West Jordan residents, helped design and contributed to the park’s unique features.
“The reason we have a wheels park is because a young man came…to several meetings and said [it] was needed in our area,” Councilmember Kayleen Whitelock said at the Oct. 9 city council meeting.
Lee made sure to point out to the crowd of hundreds the similarities between the park’s slopes and Kennecott Mine’s slopes that can be seen to the southwest.
“The skate park has a lot of unique ele-
ments,” he said. “That rainbow rail, that’s the only one I know of in the entire world has a feature like that… and we put a skate bowl in the back of a dump truck bed, how cool is that?”
Additionally, the park features the only beginner pump track in Utah where “you can practice and learn on the beginner pump tracks to the intermediate-advanced pump track.” This allows for wheelers of all skill levels to use the park.
Riverton residents Kaysem Johnson and Erica Harris both attended the grand opening with two children under 5-years-old, who they’re excited to introduce to the beginner-level part of the skatepark. Johnson called it “another opportunity for them to get out of the house and have fun outside on their bikes and push their skills.”
“It’s another type of community that we don’t really have where we live,” Harris said. “They have a small bike park over there but nothing this big that will allow them to advance levels.” l
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Signed by attendees of the grand opening, these skateboards will be gifted to sponsors, designers and other personnel who worked on the park. (Rebecca Olds/City Journals)
A little girl has a “wheely good day” at the event as her mom helps put an All Wheels Park sticker on her helmet. (Rebecca Olds/City Journals)
West Jordan Mayor Dirk Burton, well-known for his affinity for bike riding, celebrated at the grand opening by giving out stickers, talking with people and of course, riding his bike. (Rebecca Olds/City Journals)
‘Annie’ and ‘Anastasia’ will inspire audiences
Audiences will be inspired by the high school fall musical productions featuring spunky and confident girls on their journey of figuring out where they came from and where they belong.
West Jordan High School presents “Annie”
Nov. 14, 15 and 18 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 16 at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $10 adults/$8 students and can be purchased online or at the box office.
West Jordan High School students are excited to raise the bar for their fall musical performance of “Annie.”
“We have a live dog, and we have a professional dresser and a professional choreographer, so we’re really stepping it up this year,” senior Danica Oliver said.
For the first time, WJHS’s production will be choreographed by a professional choreographer, Anna Kaitlyn Burningham, which senior Lilliana Biah said has provided her and her peers the opportunity to present “a new kind of musical theater.”
From the very first rehearsal, students noticed a difference in the style of choreography, which has affected the way they see the role of movement in the show.
“We’ve always done dancing that’s trying to get you through to the rest of the singing part,” Oliver said. “But for this, it’s like dancing is telling a whole story on its own.”
Working with a professional costumer is also a new experience for WJHS students. Tanner Hardy, who is currently student-teaching in the WJHS theater department and is the assistant director for the show, is using his experience working in costumes and wardrobe at Hale Centre Theatre and owning a costume business, Legendary Druidic Creations, to ensure an authentic look for the show.
Under the direction of WJHS music teacher Keith Evans, students are excited to perform the music of “Annie,” from the iconic “Tomorrow” to the funny and sarcastic “Hooverville.”
By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
all the big numbers and the big—there’s a lot of big things,” he said.
The Broadway show, which opened in 2017, is based on the 1997 movie but differs from the cartoon’s characters and subplots.
“I think we all have our own spin on the characters, and you’re definitely going to have a different experience—still positive, it’s going to be a good time—but it’s going to be different from previous productions you’ve seen,” junior Zach Johnson, who plays the role of Vlad, said.
Johnson hopes audiences will have as much fun watching the show as the 60 cast and crew members have had rehearsing and performing it.
“My favorite is “Hooverville,” Quinn Hubert, a senior, said. “It’s really bouncy and fun to listen to, but also it’s really full of humor if you know the background, because it’s a very sarcastic song.”
Students said the message of the show is “the importance of family” and “found family.” They said the members of the cast, a total of 55 students, including four ninth grade students from Joel P. Jensen Middle School, feels like a family.
WJHS drama teacher Tony Aken has been in three productions of “Annie,” but this is his first time directing the show.
“I love it, and so I really wanted to do it here at West Jordan,” he said. “It’s just such a fun and iconic show with such great history.”
Copper Hills High School presents “Anastasia”
Nov. 15, 16 and 18 at 7:00 p.m.
Tickets are $10 adults, $8 students, $7 veterans/seniors and can be purchased online or at the box office.
Students who grew up watching the mov-
ie “Anastasia” are thrilled to be performing the stage production “Anastasia,” written by Terrence McNally with music and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty.
“The second they announced this show, I had five minutes to just, like, vibrate with excitement,” Copper Hills High School junior Asia George said. The fact that her name is part of Anastasia’s name and that she made an Anastasia costume in seventh grade because she loved the show so much, explains why she was so thrilled to be cast in the lead role.
She also loves the role models, the theme of hope, the character development and the magic of the stage show.
“Every character has some sort of moment where you understand something,” she said. “There’s also a few little minor magic moments where, if you’re watching close, you’re going to see something that just makes it even better.”
Senior Ben Dalton, who plays the role of Dmitri, said it’s an impressive show.
“I think one of the most exciting things is
“Being able to see people just having fun on stage with their characters, definitely, I think is something that people will remember, because I know a lot of shows I’ve seen when I was younger, I was inspired by people who, in their role, they were having a great time, and I started having a good time as a result of watching everyone on stage,” he said.
CHHS drama teacher Jodi Nuttall, who is directing the show, also grew up watching the movie and has featured songs from the musical in dances she has choreographed.
“I chose the show because it was something I was familiar with, and with this being my first main stage school musical, I wanted to work with something I already understood,” she said. “This is also a dance heavy show so I wanted to bring some of my dancing and choreography background into this show and try something new.”
A dancer since the age of 3, Nuttall has worked as a choreographer and a competitive dance coach and so she cast a number of showcase dancers who have advanced skills.
“Audiences should expect stronger dance sections along with ensemble acting and singing, dancing and movement through the audience aisles and a fun, energetic show,” she said. l
Copper Hills High students rehearse a scene for their upcoming production of “Anastasia.”
(Photo courtesy Joni Nuttall)
Gage Walters and Ava Dejong are excited to play the roles of Daddy Warbucks and Annie in West Jordan High School’s upcoming production of “Annie.” (Photo courtesy Tony Akin)
Copper Hills High’s production of “Anastasia” will feature advanced dance skills. (Photo courtesy Joni Nuttall)
Choir connects to community through music
By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
The West Hills Middle School choir surprised Walmart employees when they were invited to perform at a local Walmart Fulfillment Center grand opening/employee party in September. Students sang the U.S. national anthem and “Venezuela” and “No Me Voy a Decir” for the employees, 80% of whom are Venezuelan.
“We took the moment to do more Spanish songs and to learn more about Venezuelan culture to be able to sing for the audience things that they would recognize and understand,” choir director Michael Draut said.
In a show of gratitude, the Walmart manager presented them with a $3,000 check, and employees were surprised when Draut thanked them in Spanish.
“There was a gasp from the audience and a murmur,” Draut said. “There was this light-up moment where it’s like, ‘Oh, these aren’t strangers who are just performing at us, they’re performing for us, and they’re with us.’”
It’s moments like this that Draut tries to create as his choir students perform for members of the community at Grizzly hockey games, senior living centers, at Temple Square and City Creek Mall and at local elementary schools.
Community involvement—along with consistency, good learning experiences and making learning fun—have been the basis of Draut’s choir program.
“I think getting involved in communities helps grow the program a lot,” he said. “Kids love field trips. I love getting out and connecting.”
Field trips to the opera and theater allow students to see performances and even watch the rehearsal process for professional singers. Guest performers introduce them to different styles of singing, such as a barbershop quartet that performed for classes recently.
Nathan Pace, a senior at Copper Hills High School, reluctantly took choir in middle school. He is now a member of Copper Hills
lieves that choir develops life skills students need, especially middle school-aged students who are figuring out their identity and dealing with the uncomfortable changes of puberty.
“Everybody has a voice that they should learn to develop and learn to love and share with people,” Draut said. “It’s a very powerful tool the rest of your life to know how to use your voice to share stories and to express how you’re feeling.”
Pace said Draut builds up students’ skills and confidence and emphasizes the ways music brings people together.
“He talks to the kids about the impact that their voices can have in reaching other people’s hearts and in lifting other people,” she said. “He chooses music, too, that the kids can put their hearts behind.”
High School’s concert choir, prestigious Madrigals choir and the All-State choir.
“I wouldn’t be where I am without Mr. Draut,” he said. “He inspired in me a love of music that has carried me through my middle school years and into high school, and it still shapes the way I think and act today.”
His experience under Draut’s direction influenced his three younger siblings to take choir classes. Their mother, Cherilea Pace, said Draut’s classes have had a significant impact on her children.
“He is very good at creating vision for the students,” Pace said. “He really helps them to visualize their success before it happens. And that’s an intrinsic part of good performing in the arts. But he just applies that to everything in life. So I think that’s super helpful for the kids.”
Pace became the choir accompanist and saw how Draut shared personal stories to encourage students to push themselves.
“He encourages his students to anticipate learning from hard things,” she said.
Pace said the quarterly “comfort zone” assignments, which challenged students to do
something they normally wouldn’t do, helped her children who have anxiety and who are introverted develop life skills.
Her daughter Marie, who is an introvert, has talked to people in the halls, auditioned for solos in front of the class, and attended social events for some of her comfort zone assignments. Now a ninth grader, Marie said she is now confident singing in front of others.
“If it wasn’t for Mr. Draut, in my first two years I would not have done anything,” she said. “I would have just not auditioned. I would have just hoped that no one noticed me, probably. My last two years have greatly affected how I am now. I’m not sure if, without those comfort zone assignments, that I would be as confident in myself as I am now.”
Pace’s children also commented on how they felt “immediately accepted” in Draut’s classes and that Draut was relatable and fun and an overall great teacher.
“He cares about the music, but he cares more about the kids,” Jacob Pace, a junior at CHHS, said.
Draut is passionate about teaching students about the power of their voices. He be-
In an effort to connect with all his students through music, Draut tries to use more music from other cultures—especially Hispanic music—in his choirs. Draut wants the demographics of his choir to match the school’s demographics, which is about 30% Hispanic, including a recent influx of refugees from Venezuela. He said learning and performing Hispanic music would help Spanish speaking students feel comfortable joining the choir and more connected to the music.
“I know choir would be great for them,” Draut said. “It immediately helps them connect to other students and foster community, and it would help our current students that don’t understand refugees or their situations to be a little bit more open-minded to what they’re going through and how to best support them and befriend them.”
The cost of new sheet music for these new songs for all his students would exceed Draut’s budget, which has been cut in half in recent years at the same time his program has grown by more than 300%. Draut plans to use the money awarded him by Walmart, and other grant funding he has sought out, to purchase the new, diverse music. l
The West Hills Middle School choir, directed by Michael Draut, receives a check for $3,000 from Walmart after their performance at a SLC Walmart Fulfillment Center grand opening/employee party. (Photo courtesy Michael Draut)
West Hills Middle School choir students mingle with audience members after a community performance at a senior living center. (Photo courtesy Michael Draut)
Community performances like this one in October at a senior living center are an integral part of Michael Draut’s West Hills Middle School choir program. (Photo courtesy Michael Draut)
Culture Night features numerous unique cultures
By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
Riverside Elementary’s PTA Family Culture Night featured activities to learn about Native American, Samoan, Peruvian, Black American and Karen cultures.
Whitney Swasey, who has two kids attending the school, had never heard of Karen, an ethnic group living in SouthEast Asia.
“I didn’t even know where it was, I didn’t even know it was a thing,” she said.
A Riverside Elementary student’s family created a display to share information about the foods, flag, alphabet and customs of the Karen people. Kids had their faces painted in a traditional Karen style called Thanaka, and sampled candies popular among the Karen people living in Thailand and Myanmar.
Swasey said it benefits her kids to learn about other people’s backgrounds and traditions. “They’re going to be more inclusive if they understand why people are a certain way and understand where they come from,” she said.
Other culture night activities included Samoan dancing, Black history coloring pages, a Peruvian Nazca lines activity and a Native American craft. Students also explored their own culture, posed with flags in a photo booth and placed start stickers on a map to show where they were born.
“It’s fun to see where people are putting the stars and I’m thinking ‘I can’t believe somebody who was born so far away is here,’” PTA Culture Night Coordinator Barbara Reyes said.
Reyes said it is good for students to realize their classmates may have a different life experience and different ways of doing things.
“Riverside has kids from over 30 different countries and cultures attending each day,” she said. “We hope that this
activity can help the kids discover and appreciate some of the beautiful things that other cultures can offer. This event is also intended to help all kids recognize their own unique culture and that they can be proud and share that culture with others.”
Families learned about more than 30 cultures from posters created by families highlighting the cultures of their heritage, such as Russian, Indian, Scottish, Colombian and Argentine, as well as non-geographical cultures such as the Deaf community and the disabled community.
Leigh Wheeler is Shoshone but was not raised in a Native American community.
“I love my culture,” she said. “I, myself, never actually got to grow up in it very much because my mother was adopted off the reservation, but I love sharing what I do know.”
She feels it’s important to instill knowledge and pride of their culture in her
children who are students at Riverside Elementary. She participated in culture night by hosting a hands-on craft for students to make their own colorful tipis.
PTA member Maylynn Steiner said the purpose of the fun and educational activity was “to be seen and to see others and to appreciate cultures all around us. We don’t often get a chance to hear about other people’s common meals or common activities. It’s important to find that connection.”
She said the topic of unity comes up in every PTA meeting and that parents and teachers look for ways to involve families and help kids feel seen and important.
“Hopefully this event will foster a sense of inclusivity and teach kids that diversity is an asset that makes us stronger,” Reyes said. l
Family shares their Karen culture with traditional Karen face painting style called Thanaka. (Jet Burnham/City Journals)
Students learned about Native American culture with hands-on activities at Family Culture Night Oct. 10. (Jet Burnham/City Journals)
Riverside Elementary’s PTA Family Culture Night featured candies from Thailand and Myanmar. (Jet Burnham/City Journals)
Authors share their backgrounds to readers at West Jordan library event
They came from very different backgrounds and locales, but best-selling authors Ally Condie and Stacie Denetsosie agree that the places they were raised helped formulate the stories they tell and the characters they create.
During a meet-and-greet and book signing at the Viridian Event Center in West Jordan, the Utah-based writers discussed the places they grew up and how that has influenced their narratives.
“I grew up in the Four Corners area,” Denetsosie said, a Native American writer and poet from Kayenta, Arizona. Her debut book “The Missing Morningstar and Other Stories” was named a 2024 Southwest Book of the Year, was a 2024 PEN/ Robert W. Bingham Prize finalist and a Gold Forward INDIES award winner. “I will always have a relationship with that area—the river, environment and setting, the scene description. When I contemplated where I should take the stories, the answers came from the land.”
Condie was raised in Cedar City and around Southern Utah University. She was a second-generation resident of Iron County, and some of her books have been set in Utah.
“Places are very important to me and my stories,” she said, including her latest novel “The Unwedding.” It was selected in June for Reese’s Book Club by actress Reese Witherspoon and was named a USA Today Bestseller. Her “Matched” series was a New York Times #1 bestseller and she was an Edgar Award Finalist for her novel “Summerlost.”
“The Unwedding” took Condie to another place, literally, as it’s a murder mystery set at a resort in Big Sur, California, a place Condie visited herself during a challenging time in her personal life. It’s been described as “The White Lo-
By Tom Haraldsen | t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com
paces. I’ve sent her ideas for books and she’s very honest with me. She’s said to me ‘if you can make this more special, I’ll read it again.’ That’s my clue that I need to rework the story.”
Denetsosie said she wanted to be a comic book artist, even as young as a sixth grader.
“I knew I wanted to do a book, but it took me a while to realize I should be a writer, and not an illustrator,” she said. She said there aren’t many Native American horror writers, or books. “It’s been a fun genre to explore and become part of,” she added.
Condie started her author journey at age 4.
“I created stories and dictated them to my babysitter,” she said with a laugh. “I guess she was kind of my first editor. Writing gives us a chance to express how we process the world. I’ve always loved it.”
Both authors are well educated and accomplished.
tus” meets Agatha Christie, “a knife’s-edge whodunit that’s as much a thriller as it is an exquisite meditation on grief and loss.”
“I think all settings are important, because they give you limits, borders that you have to stay within,” Condie said. “Writing about Big Sur certainly did that for me.”
Like all writers, the authors discussed stories that they began but somehow “fizzled out.”
“Sometimes that comes from where you’re at personally,” Denetsosie said. “It could come from a feeling of isolation, like during COVID, or even from joy.” Condie has had the same literary agent for 15 years, someone who “puts me through my
Denetsosie received her Master of Fine Arts from the Institute of American Indian Arts and her Master of Arts from Utah State University. Her work has appeared in Yellow Medicine Review, Phoebe Magazine and Cut Bank, among other publications. She is a recipient of the UCROSS Native American Fellowship and the Prague Summer Program Poetry Fellowship.
Condie has written several picture books including “Here.” A former English teacher, she has an MFA from the Vermont College of Fine Arts and is the founder and director of the nonprofit WriteOut Foundation.
Their audience included schoolteachers, parents and several young students who aspire to be writers. The event was part of a series of author visits organized by the Salt Lake County Library system. l
Murray Pediatrics Welcomes Their New Provider, Erika Tse!
To the parents of our valued patients,
We are excited to welcome Erika Tse, PA-C, to Murray Pediatrics as our newest medical provider.
Erika is a certified Physician Assistant with over thirteen years of experience in Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine. Fluent in Spanish, she has been providing compassionate and dedicated care to underserved communities in Utah since 2012, with a special focus on Hispanic populations.
Her clinical experience includes working with a wide range of conditions such as autism, developmental delays, ADHD, and medically complex children. She also has special interests in asthma, childhood obesity, and preventative medicine.
Beyond her clinical expertise, Erika is a passionate advocate for children, frequently collaborating with local government and professional associations on pediatric health initiatives, such as Gov. Cox’s One Utah Health Collaborative Innovation Board.
Erika will begin seeing patients on October 2, 2024. We are excited to have her join our practice and look forward to continuing to care for your children.
Warm Regards,
Murray Pediatrics
Erika Tse PA-C, MPAS
Se Habla Español 164 East 5900 South Suite A-112 Murray, UT 84107 (801) 262-2673
M-F 8:30am - 4:30pm Sat 9:00am - 12:00pm murraypediatrics.com
Authors Ally Condie and Stacie Denetsosie at a meet-and-greet and book signing event at the Viridian Event Center in the West Jordan Library. (Tom Haraldsen/City Journals)
To raise awareness of breast cancer, West Jordan officers wear pink badges
By Rebecca Olds | rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com
Have you noticed anything different about the badges of West Jordan police officers this month?
October is national breast cancer awareness month. To show support, some West Jordan police officers wear a pink badge during the month.
Sergeant Andrew Hercules, the West Jordan Police Department’s community outreach supervisor, said the tradition has been around in the department since 2019. The badges feature the signature breast cancer pink color and several of the pink ribbons.
“We have had several of our own department members who have suffered from breast cancer,” he said. “Breast cancer is also prevalent within the West Jordan community, so we wear the badges to show support for those within our department and our community who have suffered from breast cancer.”
While Hercules said it’s not a mandate, many officers choose to wear the badges and pay for it out of their own pockets. Hercules wears his in honor of a good friend who “fought through and survived breast cancer, while being a police officer.”
“I choose to wear the badge in support of her and the many other members of our department who have been affected by breast cancer,” he said.
Other law enforcement departments in the state also participate and support breast cancer fighters and survivors with pink badges during the month including the Ogden Police Department, per KSL. l
Sergeant Brian Schaaf of West Jordan Police Department wears his pink badge on Oct. 12 at the department’s annual police prayer breakfast. (Rebecca Olds/City Journals)
West Jordan police officers buy their breast cancer awareness badges out of their own pockets. (Photo courtesy Sgt. Andrew Hercules)
West Jordan police chief requests help from local congregations at fourth annual Police Prayer Breakfast
“Everyone in this place has the privilege of serving our community with courage and honor, love and truth, we ask that You would help us with that,” began the West Jordan fourth annual Police Prayer Breakfast on Oct. 12 at City Hall.
The breakfast is held annually on the Faith & Blue weekend that is meant to create “stronger communities” by connecting local law enforcement across the United States with faith leaders and organizations within the community, per Faith & Blue. West Jordan joined in the efforts four years ago by starting the breakfast tradition within the city.
In the past two years attendance has doubled, with more than 35 different faith leaders attending this year.
Faith leaders from local congregations and organizations like The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Utah Christian Fellowship Church, Lifeline Community Church, Hope Lutheran Church, Mountain Vista United Methodist Church, Cross Tower Church of Christ, Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Utah Islamic Center, the Point Church, Sikh Church, chaplains from Holy Cross Hospital and more attended the event to share their insights.
In addition to the prayer breakfast, the
By Rebecca Olds | rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com
West Jordan Police Department offers local congregations active shooter training to prepare against violence.
West Jordan Police Chief Ken Wallentine, who identified himself as a Christian, centered the breakfast discussion around two points: “what are you and your congregation
Attendees of the West Jordan Police Prayer Breakfast from local congregations each had the opportunity to answer two questions posed by Police Chief Ken Wallentine: “How are you helping the police department?” and “How can the police department better help you?” (Rebecca Olds/City Journals)
doing to help local law enforcement” and “how can local law enforcement better help you?”
Most leaders asked for more patrolling of church buildings to safeguard against vandalism and requested the police department attend church events to connect better with different groups.
Wallentine followed up with some of his own requests for local congregations.
“My first request is to take care of one another, and then you see that we might be helpful extending your reach beyond what you think is possible,” Wallentine said. He noted that having a strong faith population is related to having lower crime rates.
He spoke of an experience his friend had while attending an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting when he came in late. The whole meeting would stop for the rest of the members to greet him and recognize his choice to be there. Wallentine invited the faith groups to welcome others with these same open arms.
“What would it take for your church to become a place where grace is on tap?” he asked.
His next request was for help looking for those with integrity to join the force.
“The challenge is not just finding people who are diverse in terms of their background, in terms of their ethnicity, but in terms of their faith beliefs and their language abilities,” he said. “We’re trying to hire officers who represent the diversity of our community.”
His last request was perhaps the most simple of them all: “Pray for us.” l
West Jordan Police Chief Ken Wallentine (left) talks with attendees of the fourth annual West Jordan Police Prayer Breakfast on Oct. 12. (Rebecca Olds/City Journals)
Breakfast was served at the West Jordan Police Prayer Breakfast, as Police Chief Ken Wallentine has always been a believer that “food brings people together.” (Rebecca Olds/City Journals)
Grizzlies end girls soccer season with program-record 15 wins
By Josh McFadden | josh.m@thecityjournals.com
The Copper Hills girls soccer team bowed out of the Class 6A state quarterfinals with a 3-0 loss to Syracuse on Oct. 17. Though it was a tough loss for the Grizzlies, it was a memorable season.
Copper Hills finished the year with a 15-5 record and tied for second place in Region 2 with a 9-3 mark. The 15 victories were the most in program history.
“It was a fantastic season,” head coach Justin Hendrix said. “We only allowed 20 goals in 20 games, or one goal per game, and had nine shutouts, meaning in 45% of our games the opposition did not score. That is a tremendous accomplishment and significant improvement from where the team was just a few years ago. We pushed our defense hard to win balls out of the air, find and stay with their mark and connect passes as we build out. They were fantastic. I can’t say enough good things about our defensive performance, especially considering the level of competition we faced.”
The Grizzlies never allowed more than three goals in a game and allowed only a single goal on five occasions.
The season-ending loss in the state quarterfinals didn’t come without effort. Copper Hills was down just 1-0 at the break before succumbing to a strong Syracuse offense.
“We ran into an extremely tough Syracuse team on the road and fell short,” Hendrix said. “We got caught on counter attacks in the second half when we were pushing numbers forward trying to get a goal. It was a tough matchup for us; Syracuse is incredibly talented, but the girls fought and gave
their all.”
It was just the third time in program history that Copper Hills reached the state quarterfinals. The school opened in 1995.
In the second round on Oct. 15, Copper Hills shut out Region 1’s Layton 2-0 at home, scoring both goals in the second half. Anna Hendrix and Brenna Arauzo scored for
the Grizzlies off assists from Sydney Torres and Jasmine Cruz. Aspen Fraser got the shutout in the net as the starting goalkeeper.
In league play, Copper Hills had five wins by at least three goals and registered four goals in a game five times this season. Several players contributed offensively, as 11 players scored. Leading the way was Torres, a senior who tallied 17 goals. Her 15 assists also paced the Grizzlies. Sophomore Camila Palafox was second on the team with 11 goals and tied for fourth with five assists. Arauzo, a senior, had seven goals and eight assists on the year.
Copper Hills achieved these accomplishments despite facing a challenging slate of games.
“We exceeded expectations,” he said. “We had a very difficult schedule. We played six games against teams that finished in the RPI top seven in 6A. We have had back-toback 14-plus-win seasons. We finished second in Region 2 for the second year in a row and reached the quarterfinals for the second year in a row. It was a fantastic season from a results perspective.”
Hendrix said he could not have been happier with the girls’ efforts. Even when things weren’t going their way, the players gave it their all and had a positive attitude,
Copper Hills girls soccer players celebrate after scoring a goal in a game earlier this season. The Grizzlies reached the state quarterfinals and won a program-best 15 games. (Photo courtesy Justin Hendrix)
“They were fantastic. I can’t say enough good things about our defensive performance, especially considering the level of competition we faced.”
— Head Coach Justin Hendrix
Hendrix said.
“The ultimate measurement is how they played,” he said. “I’m really pleased that we were competitive in every game, played extremely hard and never stopped fighting. We played soccer the right way. These girls positively represented our program, our school and our community every time they stepped on the pitch.”
Hendrix believes bigger things are coming for the Copper Hills program.
The 2025 season is a ways off, but Hendrix said he thinks the team can build off the momentum it established this year. He said the Grizzlies are now a force to be reckoned with in Utah high school girls soccer.
“I think it’s a recognition that we have become a strong, respectable soccer program
capable of competing with the best teams in the state when we play with great effort, energy and collectively focus on common goals,” he said. “We play in an incredibly difficult region against amazing players and teams in 6A; nothing will come easy. But we have the players, the talent and work ethic to compete and have success.”
Copper Hills does lose a strong group of seniors that Hendrix will miss. It won’t be easy replacing them. Still, Hendrix is confident that he has the pieces to fill in and make 2025 a successful campaign. The Grizzlies bring back six starters next season as well as some reserves who will be ready to take on larger roles. Palafox, Anna Hendrix, Jasmine Cruz, Aerith Gomez, Jemma Rose, Madison Hammond, Aly Tykalsky and Cambri Robinson are the top returners for next year. Anna Hendrix had five goals and six assists this season, while Montejano scored four times and had three assists. Cruz scored two goals and had two assists, and Gomez had a goal and five assists.
“We graduate some amazing seniors who have had a tremendous impact on our program who won’t be easy to replace,” he said. “However, we have some very capable players who I’m confident will come back next year ready to contribute. I expect the team to continue to compete and have success. We have some areas to improve and seniors to replace, but that will be part of the fun.” l
West Jordan Symphony celebrates 30th annual Handel’s Messiah Sing-Along
By Linda Steele | l.steele@mycityjournals.com
The West Jordan Symphony is a great way to take your family and friends to engage in the symphony’s talents. The symphony provides a great opportunity for players to develop their musical talents, create a venue for all to participate, educate and perform for the community.
West Jordan Symphony and Mountain West Chorale are proud to announce the 30th annual community sing-along performance of Handel’s Messiah. This is a beautiful performance where the audience is invited to sing along with the symphony and choir.
The mission statement of the symphony, “believes that music and the arts appeal to our human nature, and makes us civilized people. Music soothes the mind and soul, and helps us to be calm and enjoy the beauty of sound around us.”
compositions from the great classical composers, such as Hayden, Dvorak, Beethoven and many others. The music genres they play are classical, pops, movie soundtracks, patriotic and more. Their repertoire includes music from 1812 Overture, Romeo and Juliet, Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty waltzes by Tchaikovsky, and many more.
Dr. Pond was the director that founded the symphony. Other directors include Don Findlay, Jenna Baumgard, Dana Bentley, Larry White, Shane Mickelsen, Denisse Vallecillos, and Robert Bott. The current artistic director is Brenden McCauley with Trevor McFarland as the interim music director.
The West Jordan Symphony began in 1984 under the direction of Dr. Marden Pond. Then in 1993, West Jordan City sponsored the first annual Handel’s Messiah Sing-Along performance at Christmas time. For over 10 years now, the Mountain West Chorale has joined with the West Jordan Symphony; they sing and play concerts together. In 2003 it was decided to make the symphony a full-time performing organization, playing concerts in the fall and springtime.
TThe symphony performs thrilling, sometimes Halloween-themed music in the fall, followed by holiday favorites in December as part
of the annual West Jordan City Holiday Concert and Handel’s Messiah Sing-Along. In spring, the symphony welcomes instrumental soloists and small ensembles from the community to audition and perform in the Solo & Ensemble Showcase. To close each season, the symphony performs their Masterworks Concert, featuring
Dillon Workman has been with the West Jordan Symphony for one year, and he’s on the board of the directors as the Director of Communications and Marketing. Workman played for another symphony for several years before joining the West Jordan Symphony. He took a little time off, then decided he needed a sense of community. After two years off, and spending much time researching various local groups, he found the West Jordan Symphony. “The fun thing about the West Jordan Symphony is that you can join without an audition. We have a high
Sounds of the Season concert: A family tradition lives on
he Nielson and Shaw families have a deep and meaningful connection to the Seasons Orchestra and Choir, where music has been shared across generations. For Kendra Nielson, participating in “Sounds of the Season” holds memories close to her heart. “To be able to perform with the same group, on the same stage, that my grandparents, my siblings, and my mom did for so many years before me is like a dream come true,” she says.
Kendra is joined by her brother Kyle in the orchestra, with their grandparents, Roy and Dianne Shaw, lending their voices
to the choir. Mindie Nielson, who is part of the family’s musical journey, sings alongside Roy and Dianne, strengthening their shared tradition.
We celebrate the Nielson and Shaw families for their dedication to carrying forward this legacy and for bringing generations together through the joy of music.
Sounds of the Season concert will be Saturday, Dec. 7 at 2 and 7 p.m. at Bingham High School. Suggested donation: $7-10 per person or $30 per family. The concerts will benefit Make-a-Wish and local family shelters.
West Jordan Symphony will celebrate 30 years of Handel’s Messiah in December. (Photo credit Eric J. Bowden)
Stephanie and her children, Kyle and Emily, perform in the concert. (Contributed)
white bow on a chair was done for the concert just after she passed to honor her. (Contributed)
skill level without auditions and anyone can come play.”
Workman has been playing violin for 22 years. He started playing violin when he was 8 years old, after attempting every other instrument he could get his hands on. He took lessons and played in middle school and high school orchestras. Workman was shy as a child, and music helped him find a way to escape and find confidence in himself. “Music heals and music is medicine, and I feel that the Messiah performance brings healing to the community.” Workman said.
There are many members who have been with the symphony for 30 years or more, and some have been there for 10 or 15 years. “They are so committed to making sure we have successful performances and holding rehearsals together. Through changes with directors, the long-dedicated members of the symphony are dedicated to making sure things are kept running smoothly. Seeing how close knit the community is around the symphony, and within the symphony, is inspiring to me,” Workman said.
Diana Larsen plays flute and piccolo for the West Jordan Symphony. Larsen loves to sing, doing her first solo performance at 3 years old. She went on to learn piano when she was 8, then learned the violin. In junior high she learned the flute and other instruments. Larsen was invited to play flute with the West Jordan Symphony and currently serves as the librarian for the symphony. Although she loves playing the flute with the symphony, singing is her first love, and she occasionally sings a solo in the Messiah. “Music is very calming. I believe music brings people together, creates a spirit of camaraderie, helps boost a person, and helps brain development. Music is real. There is a physical vibration of the music that you feel, it is not just hearing it,” Larsen said.
The concept that Larsen keeps with the symphony is, “this is a place where people can come that don’t have an opportunity to play otherwise, because they don’t have enough time, maybe their level is down because they haven’t played for 25 years, or maybe they just got out of high school. We welcome all ages and skill levels to play together.” Larsen has played with the symphony for 18 years and she has seen it grow and continue to be an opportunity for people of all ages and levels. She “encourages everyone to have music in their lives, and parents if children show an interest in something, try to give them the opportunity to learn music, play an instrument, sing etc., and give them support. Music helps with physical and mental health, plus cognitive development. Music is very important and we want to make sure it stays in our schools.”
Amanda Mulia has played violin with the West Jordan Symphony for three years. She has always loved music. She started playing the piano when she was 4 years old. She started playing the violin when she was 8 years old. She has always enjoyed playing music, and she played through college. She played with the American West Symphony in Sandy before joining the West Jordan Symphony. She got into music because it tapped into a different part of her brain.
“Having a creative outlet is one of those things that makes me feel good. It fulfills me in a way that is unique. I feel like I am very blessed because I have a lot of different fulfillments in my life such as my family, career, friends, but music fulfills that part of my brain that nothing else can fulfill,” Mulia said. Mulia feels like music is taking care of yourself, if you play music just a little bit, it helps with taking care of your health. “The West Jordan Symphony is a great symphony to play in because everybody wants to be there, nobody is being competitive and trying to show off. They want to be there and play music because they love it.”
Eric J Bowden has been with the West Jordan Symphony for 11 years, he started in 2011. He was invited by an existing member of the symphony to help fill out the cello section for the Halloween Concert. “I enjoy playing together with my friends, and I appreciate the diversity of music West Jordan Symphony covers,” Bowden said. One of the most enjoyable pieces of music that Bowden enjoyed performing was The Hebrides Overture, under the direction of Shane Mickelsen. “One of the most amazing pieces we’ve performed in the group and it’s stuck with me for years. The West Jordan Symphony is a testament to the desire of its members, and the community at large, to play and perform together.”
Larry White was the director of West Jordan Symphony from 1986-2015. Performing Handel’s Messiah has a lot of meaning to White. “Besides being such a masterful musical composition, the joy and inspiration from the work and in involving the audience in a singalong is a very uplifting experience together.”
One of the joyful highlights of White’s musical life was having the opportunity of directing the West Jordan Symphony. “I am so appreciative of the many friends I made, which I still cherish for their support, and their dedication to improving their musicianship. I loved the beautiful music we were able to perform, and the experiences we had together,” White said.
Martin Calderwood has been a member of the West Jordan Symphony since 1986. He was
principal clarinet for 25 years. He still plays the clarinet, and he plays the saxophone when needed as well as some side instruments such as alarm clock, kazoo and side whistle. In 1986 was the first Messiah the West Jordan Symphony played and Calderwood performed with them. Calderwood has a 60 year career of playing music. He started playing in fourth grade and he learned the clarinet. He played with the Post Office band and the marching band in high school. The reason Calderwood decided to play music is because his grandfather and his grand-
father’s family used to tour around and entertain men at the work camps in between WWI and WWII. Calderwood’s dad was 5 years old and he played at the work camps too. Calderwood has played the marimba with six sticks, which is an accomplishment. One of his competitors was Ron Ross (Fireman Frank). By the time he was out of high school he was playing the flute, oboe and saxophone. “I have a great passion for music, it is the love of my life,” Calderwood said.
West Jordan Symphony’s annual Messiah performance has long been a cherished tradition, drawing music lovers from all over the community. It continues to attract new fans. “I feel like I’ve become so cultured since I’ve started listening to the symphony and its type of music. It’s so exciting to watch the players feel the music they perform,” Ann G. said, a fan of the West Jordan Symphony.
West Jordan Symphony and Mountain West Chorale will perform Handel’s Messiah Monday Dec. 16 at 7 p.m. at West Jordan High School. Admission is free, but ticket reservations are required to attend. You can follow West Jordan Symphony on Facebook to find more information. Donations are greatly appreciated and can be made to the Cultural Arts Society of West Jordan via Venmo @CASWJ. If you would like to participate with the symphony as a musician or volunteer, visit westjordansymphony.org. l
West Jordan Symphony rehearses for its December performance. (Photo credit Eric J. Bowden)
Riser leading the way for Copper Hills cross country
By Josh McFadden | josh.m@thecityjournals.com
In high school cross country, Class 6A is competitive, with a handful of deep, talented teams leading the way. It can be a challenge for Copper Hills to match the top squads in the state, but that doesn’t keep the Grizzlies from pushing themselves to be their best.
While Copper Hills is hardly a one-person team, one runner has been a consistent performer and leader for multiple years. Senior Corbin Riser is having a standout season, and he’s hoping to cap it off with a strong showing at state Oct. 30 at Sugar House Park.
“As we turn onto the home stretch of the season, I look to drop massive [personal records], both for divisionals and state, and finish this final season off on a good note,” he said.
Head coach Garth Rushforth has admired Riser’s determination this season. He said Riser’s positive attitude and hard work have typified the entire boys team.
“The success of the Copper Hills boys’ cross-country team this season can be largely attributed to the leadership and determination of one standout individual: Corbin Riser,” Rushforth said. “While his name may not always top the race results, his influence is undeniable in the performances of our top runners. It’s Corbin who drives them forward every day in practice, running alongside them, urging them to maintain their pace and pushing them to exceed their limits during speed workouts.”
Rushforth said Riser pays attention to detail and not only wants to be at his best but is concerned about how his teammates are performing. He exhibits good sportsmanship and does his part to represent his school well.
“Corbin’s leadership goes beyond just physical performance,” Rushforth said. “He sets an example by taking care of the little things that matter; leading cool-down sessions after races, ensuring proper warmups beforehand and making sure the team area is spotless before leaving. He’s committed to ensuring that Copper Hills is recognized not only for their athletic prowess but also for their class and respect for the sport.”
Riser has seen his share of struggles, too.
Last season, Riser battled illnesses that hampered his running times. He has used his senior year to “figure out how to race again” and train effectively. He said he has used different race strategies this year and began hitting his stride late in the season.
“I’m confident in my current strategy and am looking forward to what I am capable of in the coming weeks,” he said.
In addition, Riser said the team has
struggled with unity, morale and camaraderie compared to past seasons. He said some athletes have not been as committed as he and Rushforth would like. This has affected the Grizzlies’ overall performance. He has also battled some injuries.
But Riser continues to put in the time and effort to improving each day.
“Being persistent has been the biggest part in finding success for me,” he said. “Coming back to practice every day and putting the work in despite a bad race or having to take time off for an injury is where you will find the experience you need to get better. I’ve had setbacks from growth plate issues to overuse injuries and even concussions from other sports, but I always come back. Cross country takes time, and you need to be really patient and smart about it. I’m incredibly grateful that I stuck with it and learned as much as I did.”
Riser acknowledges that cross country is not an easy sport. It requires both
Copper Hills cross country runner Corbin Riser, a senior, checks behind him during a race this season. Riser has been a top performer and leader this season for the Grizzlies. (Photo courtesy Garth Rushforth)
physical and mental strength to enjoy and be successful. During his four years as a Copper Hills cross country team member, he has learned to appreciate what it takes to achieve personal goals and find gratification in running.
“The things I enjoy most about the sport have changed over the years,” he said. “I think the two biggest takeaways, however, have been the support and the work rate displayed by the best of the best. What has really kept me hooked is a good group of people who all have the same goal of getting faster, stronger and building their mental fortitude. I love the mentality of ‘This is going to hurt, like a lot—let’s do it.’ Over my years here, I have built mental fortitude, learned to build relationships with a plethora of personalities (good and bad) and found an effective and healthy escape to when I’m feeling down and dealing with tough situations.”
As a freshman, Riser had no plans to be a varsity cross country runner. He only started working out with the team to prepare his body for another sport. However, it didn’t take long for him to find out that cross country was for him.
“I originally started the summer conditioning for the cross country team in an effort to get in shape for the upcoming club
soccer season,” he said. “The first run, the top boys were instructed to turn around and help out the slower runners, so I was alone for most of it, and by quite a distance. However, as the distance and pace increased by the day, I was able to keep up with the top boys for all of it. As we ran and did the strength and core workouts, I began to make connections and develop friendships with all of them. They took me under their wing and made the entire experience incredibly fun and intriguing. From there, I developed the desire to see how fast I could become and maybe earn some scholarships.”
Once the cross country season ends the day before Halloween, Riser won’t be done running. He also knows what he wants to study in college—a subject he has already had some experience with.
“After high school, I will continue running,” he said. “I’m not sure yet if it’ll be for a college or just on my own but running is an outlet for me and a great coping method, so it will for sure be included in my future schedules. I’m looking to go into sports science and psychology and look to make breakthroughs in how athletes connect their minds to their performances to achieve what is believed to be impossible.” l
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West Jordan boys golf season wrap: New coach sees big improvements
By Josh McFadden | josh.m@thecityjournals.com
Though the West Jordan boys golf team wasn’t a factor in the state race, the Jaguars have a lot to be proud of from a solid 2024 campaign.
The Jaguars got better throughout the season, with multiple players progressing and contributing. Head coach Jordan Bingham, in his first year with the program, was pleased with the players and has high hopes for the future. He wasn’t as worried about where the team placed compared to opponents, but rather with how much the boys developed their skills and put in the work each day.
“Overall, our team demonstrated consistent growth throughout the season,” he said. “Our scoring averages improved significantly, and we saw several players achieve personal bests in both matches and tournaments. This progress reflects the hard work put in during practices and the dedication to each game. We faced some tough competition and unpredictable weather conditions, but these challenges provided valuable learning experiences. The team’s ability to adapt and maintain a positive attitude helped us navigate these obstacles effectively.”
Some West Jordan players are still fairly new to the sport on a competitive level. Bingham worked hard with the team on becoming more proficient with some of the basics of golf. There was also good team unity, as the players encouraged one another in their efforts.
“Throughout the season, we prioritized fundamentals—putting, chipping and course management,” Bingham said. “This focus paid off, as players demonstrated improved skills during competitions. Many players saw significant reductions in their scoring averages. This improvement highlighted the progress made in their techniques and mental game. Each player stepped up in their own way, whether through leadership, consistent scoring or providing support to teammates. This collective growth was a major highlight of the season.”
Bingham highlighted the play of Christian Flint, who was the team’s lone representative at the state tournament. While Flint missed the cut on day one of the Class 5A tournament, he was steady all season. Bingham also said he was a great leader.
“Christian Flint consistently led the team with his scoring average and performed well in key tournaments,” he said. “His strong play not only earned him individual accolades but also set a standard for the rest of the team. His positive attitude and work ethic inspired teammates to push themselves.”
Another player who stood out this season was Brooks Halterman. He was a steady golfer and worked hard on his game.
“[Halterman] consistently scored
well and was a reliable contributor in every match,” Bingham said. “His consistency helped anchor the team’s performance and provided a sense of stability during competitions.”
Bingham expects the improvements to continue and for the program to be even more competitive next season. Multiple varsity contributors will be back in 2025, and West Jordan has some younger golfers who could be poised to assume bigger roles on the team. Bingham believes the program is developing a stronger identity and sees the players gaining more confidence.
“Looking ahead to the 2025 season, I’m optimistic about our prospects based on the returning talent and the growth we experienced this year,” Bingham said. “We have a solid foundation with several key players returning, which positions us well for continued success. We have younger players who gained significant experience this year. Their progress gives me confidence that they’ll step up even more next season, bringing fresh energy and competitiveness. I hope to see our returning players take on more leadership roles, helping guide young-
er teammates and fostering a positive team culture.”
Of course, building off this season’s progress and being even better next year isn’t automatic. Bingham said the players need to be committed and not be afraid of hard work. He identified a few areas where his golfers can practice during the offseason and get better.
“Focusing on chipping and putting will be crucial,” he said. “Improving these areas can lead to significant reductions in scores, so more dedicated practice on the greens is essential. Teaching players to make smarter decisions on the course— such as shot selection and risk assessment—can greatly enhance performance. I hope to see players develop a better understanding of how to navigate different holes strategically. While we had standout performances, I’d like to see greater consistency across the board. Players should aim to minimize swings in performance, focusing on delivering steady scores in every match.”
Beyond the score sheet, league and tournament standings and wins and losses,
Bingham was grateful for the team unity the players established. He said his players got along well on and off the course and that they represented the school well. For Bingham, it was a memorable first season as West Jordan head boys golf coach.
“As a first-year coach, what I’ll remember most is the sense of community we built as a team,” he said. “The friendships formed, the support shown during both good and challenging times, and the shared passion for the game created a bond that goes beyond just golf. The growth of each player, both individually and collectively, stands out as a highlight, and I’m proud of how everyone came together to make this season truly memorable. We are building a legacy at West Jordan.”
Between now and next August when the Jaguars hit the links again, returning players will play on club teams or on their own, honing their skills. The Jaguars will be back in Class 5A’s Region 4, competing against other west-side schools Granger, Cyprus, Hunter, Taylorsville and Kearns. l
The West Jordan boys golf team, shown here after the Region 4 tournament, improved as the season went on. Several players will return in 2025. (Photo courtesy Jordan Bingham)
6 local nonprofits to support this holiday season
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Salt
Lake County residents have long demonstrated a commitment to service, upholding the belief that collective action leads to meaningful change and stronger communities.
With hundreds of nonprofit organizations in the area, there are many options to donate time, money or expertise to a cause close to your heart. Take time this month to show gratitude for all you have by supporting one of these charities doing big things in the Salt Lake Valley.
Murray Children’s Pantry, 170 E. 5770 South, Murray
Providing food to any family in need, the Murray Children’s Pantry offers boxes of food to feed one person for two days, or family boxes. With the help of dedicated volunteers, the pantry creates thousands of meals every month and gives them to those who need help, no questions asked. Support this organization through monetary or food donations, or volunteer to help pack meal boxes. More information is available at murraychildrenspantry.org.
Wasatch Wanderers Animal Rescue
It’s not just cats and dogs being abandoned along the Wasatch Front. Rabbits, domestic ducks, turtles, lizards, chickens, guinea pigs and other animals are often dumped by their owners in the wild, where they don’t survive long. Wasatch Wanderers rescues these rejected pets and finds new homes where they can be part of a loving family. Get involved with this organization by adopting or fostering an animal, transporting rescued animals to rescue farms or donating money to their care. Visit WasatchWanderers.org for more information.
Warrior Rising
Through strategic partnerships, Warrior Rising helps veterans become thriving business owners. Using a network of professionals from a wide range of backgrounds, the nonprofit created a remote learning platform that uses mentors, coaches, experts and grant money to provide vets the opportunity to build a successful life after they have served the country. Entrepreneurial volunteers are needed to teach skills and help vets through the business start-up process. Find more info at WarriorRising.org.
The Christmas Box International, 3660 S. West Temple Open all year, The Christmas Box International is a short-term, emergency shelter helping children suffering from abuse, neglect, trafficking and homelessness. More
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than 14,000 children were served at the home last year and organizers are always looking for donations to help support the programs offered including resource rooms and international projects. To honor the children they serve, The Christmas Box International only accepts new donations of clothing, books, toys and toiletries. Monetary donations are also accepted. Learn more at Thechristmasbox.org.
Encircle, 331 S. 600 East
Based on the premise that the LGBTQ+ community deserves to live free from discrimination, prejudice and violence, Encircle offers programs and therapy to strengthen LGBTQ+ youth and their families. Volunteers, monetary donations, fundraising, interns and community supporters are all needed to create a safe environment for these young people. With art and music nights, brunch and friendship circles, volunteers can find the most effective ways to donate their time and talents. Visit EncircleTogether.org for more information.
Fourth Street Clinic, 409 W. 400 South
With cold temperatures on the way, people experiencing homelessness will need extra support to stay safe. Fourth Street Clinic provides health care to a population that often doesn’t receive continual medical attention. The clinic accepts donations including travel-size hygiene items, tents, sleeping bags, tarps, gloves and hats, new underwear and warm socks. Monetary donations to Fourth Street Clinic are leveraged to create an additional in-kind donation dollar for every $1 raised. Learn more at FourthStreetClinic.org. l
Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center
Did you know about this Salt Lake County service?
Did you finish a fall or summer project, but now your garage is lined with old paint containers, bags of pesticides, fertilizers, fuels, batteries, or other leftover household products? Salt Lake County wants to help you properly dispose of hazardous waste before you dispose of it in garbage cans, dumpsters, landfills, or the sewer or storm drains.
Paints, cleaners, oils, batteries, smoke detectors, and pesticides contain potentially hazardous ingredients that require special handling when disposed of. Improper disposal causes significant problems in our landfills and the environment and can also result in criminal penalties and fines.
Salt Lake County opened a drive-up Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center free for county residents at 8805 South 700 West in Sandy. The center is open Monday through Saturday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It also has dumpsters for glass and cardboard recycling.
What can I take to the HHW Collection Center?
• Automotive batteries and fluids (oil and antifreeze)
• Fuels
• Paints, stains, and varnishes
• Pesticides, herbicides, and other yard
Aimee Winder Newton
Salt Lake County Councilwoman| District 3
chemicals
• Many cleaning supplies
• Cooking oil
• Used oil (up to five gallons per visit)
• Aerosols
• Electronics
• Fluorescent bulbs
• Devices that contain mercury
• Batteries such as lithium, NiMH, NiCd (NOTE: AA, AAA, C, D batteries are not considered hazardous)
• Televisions/monitors
• Computers and peripherals
• Cell phones
Can Businesses use the HHW Center?
Business waste and waste from residents of other counties is accepted for a fee. Business waste is accepted by appointment only by calling 385-468-4380.
Re-Use Shed
Many of the products taken to the HHW are still useable—sometimes even brand new. These items are placed in the Reuse Shed and are available to take home at no cost to Salt Lake County residents (no businesses, please).
The Household Hazardous Waste Cen-
ter is just one of many excellent services Salt Lake County offers. Be sure to take advantage of this amazing resource. This is just another example of your county working for you!
from Depression, Anxiety, or OCD?
Preparing Thanksgiving dinner never gets easier. I always start with lofty culinary goals based on recipes from “The Pioneer Woman” that include truffles and capers but end up scraping scorched gravy into a dish and hoping the turkey won’t give anyone food poisoning.
Because of my poor cooking skills, I’m always looking for Thanksgiving hacks to make meal preparation more sunshine and less hurricane. I thought I’d share some tips I found to survive the food frenzy that is Thanksgiving.
Ask for help. Stop being a martyr. Don’t complain about having to do everything and then refuse any help. Give out assignments and not like “Can you bring one can of olives?” or “I need someone to pick up some napkins.” No. Ask someone to bring mashed potatoes or all the desserts or even the turkey. You don’t get a blue ribbon for Thanksgiving suffering.
Don’t make foods no one eats. Stop wasting time preparing “traditional” foods, even if it’s a recipe handed down from your quadruple-great grandmother. Especially if it’s handed down from your quadruple-great grandmother because there weren’t a lot of food options in the 1800s besides lima beans and fried hominy.
Use a mandoline to slice vegetables.
Hacking Thanksgiving
Peri Kinder Life and Laughter
Not to be confused with a stringed instrument from the 19th century, the mandoline slices onions, celery and carrots quickly and easily. The guest who finds the tip of my index finger in the stuffing wins a prize!
Make only one batch of dinner rolls. Homemade rolls are always a hit but now you can use them as leverage. Your grandson wants a second, hot-buttered roll? He’d better start washing dishes. Bonus hack: Purchase pre-made bakery rolls. You won’t get docked Thanksgiving points. I promise.
Thaw the turkey in water. Not only will this leave you with a bucket full of disgusting waste water but then you can spill it all over the kitchen floor on Thanksgiving morning. Maybe don’t even cook a turkey. There are no Thanksgiving laws. Have chicken wings or spaghetti bolognese.
Spatchcock the turkey. If you insist
on roasted turkey, watch a three-hour video explaining how to spatchcock the bird, which involves removing the turkey’s backbone so it lies flat and cooks quickly. (Sidenote: Who spatchcocked Utah’s governor and legislators?)
One tip said, “Use tongs to stem kale” and none of those words make sense together.
Use a Thermos to keep gravy warm. Gravy is notoriously dreadful when served cold. Trust me, I know. Grab your sisterin-law’s gallon-sized Stanley cup to ensure there’s hot gravy for the mashed potatoes.
Use pre-made pie shells. People think pies need to be made from scratch to get that flakey, buttery crust. Baloney. Unless you’re a professional pie baker, do yourself a favor and buy frozen pie crusts. Right now. Even better, get delicious pies from the grocery store.
Celebrate Thanksgiving dinner on Friday. There’s nothing worse than working three days and trying to fit in Thanksgiving preparation. On Friday, it can be a celebratory meal after everyone’s done shopping online.
Create a fun playlist. Before Uncle Jim can cue up the Jan. 6 prisoners’ chorus singing “The Star-Spangled Banner,” have a variety of tunes ready to go. Include ev-
erything from Bach to ZZ Top, to equally irritate every family member.
Give yourself a break. I’ve overcooked turkey, burned gravy, made inedible broccoli-cornbread stuffing, forgot the cranberry sauce, dropped a pumpkin pie and used Tupperware lids when I ran out of dinner plates. No one cares. If you’re being judged for the way Thanksgiving dinner turns out, it’s time to find a new family.
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