When Morgen Rosenkrantz took the job at her children’s school to teach PE rotations for all grades, she had no experience except that she was a mom who enjoyed being physically active. She had to build the PE program at Antelope Canyon Elementary from scratch and on her own. She searched through online resources, registered for national fitness programs and connected with other PE teachers to create a curriculum that would meet state PE standards and engage students.
“There’s a lot more that goes into it than just having kids come into the gym and scream their heads off for 40 minutes,” Rosenkrantz said.
PE is a required subject in both elementary and secondary schools. While secondary schools exclusively hire certified teachers who follow a specific curriculum, elementary school PE programs have fewer requirements.
Tricia Rojas, Health and PE specialist for Jordan School District, said there is no specific amount of hours or frequency requirements for elementary PE classes. The length and frequency of PE classes are de-
termined by the size of the school, the staff budget and the number of other class rotations in the schedule. She said administrators are realizing the importance of movement, and in addition to PE rotations, many are trying to incorporate more movement in the classroom or in afterschool programs.
Rojas believes movement is an important part of a student’s physical, emotional and mental health and that it directly affects students’ academic performance.
“Movement is important,” Rojas said. “I think the cell phone and how much time kids spend in front of the screens, they’re seeing that affect behavior, and I think they’re seeing that they need to replace that with something that actually improves their academics. And so movement is just a no-brainer. We’ve been hearing it. We don’t need any more research. The research has been there, and I think it’s just evident in our classrooms now that the kids need to move.”
Rojas provides monthly training for all PE teachers in the district and prioritiz-
Continued page 11
Weight Loss Options: What You Need To Know About Diet, Prescription Medications & Surgery
By Catherine Beck, MD
verywhere you turn lately, it seems the topic of weight loss is front and centerfrom billboards to TV to social media and more. And everyone seems to have an opinion on how to lose weight, with some offering weight loss services at a hefty price. So what is the best way to lose weight? How do you start? Is it worth the cost?
At CommonSpirit Holy Cross HospitalJordan Valley, the Comprehensive Medical and Surgical Weight loss program can answer your questions from a reliable, accredited, board certified provider.
Let’s tackle the first question - why you may want to lose weight or why it may be important for you to lose weight. Ultimately, it’s not just about appearances. There are multiple medical problems that improve or resolve with weight loss, including diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, arthritis and sleep apnea, amongst others.
Weight loss also decreases your risk of multiple types of cancer, specifically breast and colon cancer. In addition, most patients just want to feel better, have more energy, and be able to spend quality time with their family, without the limitations their weight may place on them.
In general, there are typically three ways people lose weight: diet and exercise, medically supervised weight loss, and surgical weight loss.
1. Diet and exercise include any program someone does on their own, including Keto, Weight Watchers, Mediterranean diets, Jenny Craig or meal plans and programs. No specific diet has ever been proven to be more effective than another. In general, any diet and exercise plan will lead to about 5% excess body weight loss on average.
2. Medically supervised weight loss includes using prescription medications to lose weight. Most people immediately think of Wegovy and Zepbound, but there are a lot of medications that help people lose weight and work in different ways. It is incredibly important to know that only a well-trained provider can help patients use the optimal combination of medications to see maximum results with minimal side effects. Medically supervised weight loss should include not only a provider trained in weight loss, but also a dietitian, along with lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. These medications can help people lose up to 20% of their excess body weight if used correctly. Unfortunately, stopping the medication usually leads to weight regain and some patients have side effects that force them to stop the medication.
3. Surgical weight loss, or bariatric surgery, can help people lose 60-80%of their excess body weight and keep it off. Bariatric surgery
When things go
typically refers to a sleeve gastrectomy or a gastric bypass. All surgical weight loss should include working with a dietitian, a medical weight loss provider and a surgeon, along with lifestyle changes.
Choosing an accredited, comprehensive, bariatric and medical weight loss program, such as the one at Holy Cross Hospital - Jordan Valley, gives patients access to a variety of approaches designed to help them meet their weight loss goals in a safe environment. Only at a comprehensive center, can patients learn what will work best for them and get treated by providers with a history of safe and successful weight loss. Most insurances cover bariatric surgery and the costs of seeing a provider and dietitian, even if they don’t cover the costs of the newer injectable medications. With us, patients don’t have to pay program fees and we bill everything possible through a patient’s insurance. We work with patients to find the most affordable solutions!
Thinking about weight loss options? Please give Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley a call to see if you have coverage and to make an appointment with one of our surgeons or medical weight loss providers at (801) 601-4423. We are here to compassionately care for you.
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.
SPONSORED CONTENT
Catherine Beck, MD General and Bariatric Surgeon CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital - Jordan Valley
Installation of signed beam marks milestone for new West Jordan Arts Center
By Rebecca Olds | rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com
It was a windy day on Sept. 11 at 11 a.m. when the final beam was placed for the new West Jordan Community and Arts Center.
Several city council members, including Bob Bedore, Kelvin Green, Chad Lamb, Kent Shelton and council chair Zac Jacob, attended the topping out ceremony with city staff, representatives from SIRQ Construction, Method Studio and the Cultural Arts Society.
“It’s a tradition in construction that the final beam is hoisted into place in some sort of ceremony,” councilmember Kelvin Green said during a city council meeting later that same day, noting that a flag was also unfurled under the beam.
Green also said the sight of the flag was extra special on Sept. 11, 23 years after the tragic events that occurred on 9/11.
Marie Magers, West Jordan City’s public information officer, said the place-
ment of the beam is the “end of structural construction” for the building before the team moves onto the interior.
Joe Bryant, purchasing manager for West Jordan and the project manager for the new arts center called the event a big milestone for the center.
“The event was a great opportunity to reflect on our progress and look ahead to the next stages of the project,” Bryant said. “The last steel beam that was signed by many West Jordan employees, was placed at the Northeast corner of the structure.”
Two weeks before the beam was installed, it was available for all city staff to sign, said Magers.
“As we move forward, our focus will shift toward the next phases of construction, including interior work, project inspections and the parking lot,” Bryant said. “Our staff’s continued dedication and expertise will be essential as we move
forward and work towards our final goals.”
City council member and chair Zac Jacob addressed the audience at the event.
“Having this as a city facility in our community and in our civic center is going to be a great asset for generations to come,” he said. “A community theater is not just a community theater and it’s not just a place to come and watch and par-
ticipate in and enjoy a production—it’s a place to bring a community together.”
The groundbreaking for the center happened earlier this year in April following much anticipation from the city’s art council and the wider community, as reported previously by the City Journals.
No expected completion date was given. l
The West Jordan Journal is a monthly publication distributed directly to residents via the USPS as well as locations throughout West Jordan.
Sawatzki | mieka.s@thecityjournals.com Jason Corbridge | jason.c@thecityjournals.com Ryan Casper | ryan.c@thecityjournals.com Greg Tanner | greg.t@valuepagesutah.com
WEST JORDAN TEAM
A crew places the final beam for the building on Sept. 11. (Photo courtesy West Jordan City)
The final steel beam of the West Jordan Community and Arts Center was signed by dozens of city staff. (Photo courtesy West Jordan City)
In memory of Bradley W. Taylor—officers across Utah, Idaho, Nevada compete to honor fallen Sandy K-9 officer
By Rebecca Olds | rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com
In early September, the first Bradley W. Taylor Memorial K-9 Trials hosted more than 40 K-9 officers from across Utah, Idaho and Nevada in memory of fallen Sandy City K-9 officer, Bradley W. Taylor.
The event was hosted by the Bradley W. Taylor Memorial foundation which was started by Taylor’s wife, Marisa Taylor. Taylor hopes to encourage the use of K-9 officers and raise funds for K-9 training and equipment in her husband’s memory.
“I made the foundation to help Brad still reach [his] dream,” Taylor said. “Until you’re in the [K-9] world, you don’t realize just how important these dogs are, and then when you get there you realize how much work it is.”
In honor of Bradley W. Taylor
Marisa and Bradley Taylor were raising their family in Davis County when tragedy hit.
Taylor’s tragic death occurred last year on Sept. 3 when he was only 29 years old. His death came suddenly, just weeks after being diagnosed with stage four melanoma and shortly after the birth of his youngest daughter.
“There is a little bit of a calm to know that he died loving his life—he loved his family, he loved his job,” Marisa Taylor said. “He had found a purpose and not everyone gets to say that.”
Marisa Taylor said she watched Bradley Taylor find his passion as a K-9 officer after he had tried many different career paths.
“When he found the police, there was a change in him in a good way,” Marisa Taylor said. “There he found his passion. He loved it. He loved that he had a purpose to help people, that he went to work every day and did something every moment he was there.”
It was in Sandy where he started training his Police Service Dog, Trig.
“He trained that dog day and night,” Marisa Taylor said. “That dog was so spoiled—he got ice cream and he would have snow cones with us as a family. He did everything.”
After her husband’s death, Marisa Taylor started the Braley W. Taylor Memorial to do three things: to support her husband’s dream, support K-9 units and help their young daughters know a different side of their dad.
“I will make sure my girls get to be involved in that world, and so they get to know that side of dad in a way that I can’t just tell them about,” Marisa Taylor said. “This way my girls get to know a different side of dad.”
She hopes to have her girls continue to attend the K-9 trials and be a part of that “family” of K-9 officers.
“I come to these trials, and they all know Brad,” Marisa Taylor said.
The annual K-9 trials hosted by the memorial foundation, she said, is an event to
not only push police officers and their dogs to train, but to offer outreach and support for underfunded departments.
“[Taylor] strongly believed that K-9 officers help to avoid deadly conflict and bring home officers and citizens alike,” reads the memorial’s website.
Its mission is “to help continue that legacy in his honor by providing essential funding for K-9 units” and “ensure these courageous canines are well-equipped to serve and defend.”
The first annual Bradley W. Taylor K-9 Trials
Participants for the K-9 trials came from institutions in Idaho, Utah and Nevada, including West Jordan and Sandy Police Departments, as well as Utah Transit Authority, who took home the prize for Explosives Top Agency per an Instagram post.
Sergeant Mike Jones from the West Jordan Police Department, leader of the national award-winning K-9 department, said all five K-9 trainers participated in the event to support the cause. He interacted with Bradley Taylor on several occasions when departments came from all across the valley to train in West Jordan.
Jones said after Bradley Taylor died, Marisa Taylor “wanted to make sure agencies that didn’t have the funding or support” would have “an option to reach out and have some money to get those things.”
“It’s expensive to run a good canine program, we are truly appreciative of being able to run this program,” Jones said of the West Jordan Police Department’s K-9 program. “Our dogs are getting called all over the place to help other agencies that just don’t have the support that we do.”
West Jordan is one of the few agencies
in the state, Jones said, that allow their handlers to spend at least two hours a day training with their PSDs. For other departments, most training is done on a police officer’s own time.
Jones’ PSD Vranik won first-place prizes in the obedience and agility categories and fourth place in the patrol area search and Tuff Dog competitions. The WJPD as a whole won the Top Patrol Agency Award of the whole event.
Taylorsville Police Department was awarded a new PSD who was trained by Next
Level Canine during the event.
In total, the event raised more than $12,000 which will be used in part to host a winter training held by the foundation and the rest will be awarded to different police departments based on needs, Marisa Taylor said.
Police departments can fill out a form to apply for aid from the memorial on the memorial’s website at www.bwtk9memorial.com. l
West Jordan PSD Echo participates in the Brad Taylor K9 Memorial Trials, attacking a man in a Demanet bite suit. (Photo courtesy Jossie Gagon)
West Jordan PSD Harley stands next to award plaques for placing first in Top Patrol Dog and Vehicle Narcotics search, second in Criminal Apprehension and third in Agility. (Photo courtesy Mike Jones)
Sergeant Mike Jones of the West Jordan Police Department works with his PSD Vranik at the K9 trials. (Photo courtesy Jossie Gagon)
West Jordan advocate releases children’s book based on his experiences with Cerebral Palsy
By Linda Steele | l.steele@mycityjournals.com
Johnathan Aubrey is the author of the book “Am I Different.” The story is about a young boy who shares the joy of overcoming obstacles by doing hard things. Despite his obstacles it has not stopped him from moving forward and doing things in his life that he likes. He is very influential and has been a positive influence on others.
This story is an experience of growing up with cerebral palsy and believing because of his physical challenges he would never be able to learn to ride a bicycle, and the process he went through to figure it out.
At the age of 7 he was bored and lonely and he wanted to learn to ride a bike. He was given a bike with training wheels, and he was in a bicycle accident. His sister challenged him to a race. He got a head start and crashed because he took a corner too quickly. His sister didn’t have enough time to go around him and ended up riding her bike over the top of him. The bicycle accident hurt. His parents decided to take the bike away from him to avoid accidents. For a long time Aubrey believed people with cerebral palsy couldn’t ride a bike.
Aubrey would play hide and seek with his friends, and when they got tired they would call time out and sit down. He would go to his friends bikes and sit down on a bike, and see if he could ride it. He didn’t really put a lot of effort into riding the bike, so he would get tired and say, “see, I can’t ride a bike.”
The summer of his 13th year his brother and all his friends were riding their bikes to a public pool and Aubrey was home alone playing video games. He got bored and lonely and he was tired of being bored, so he decided it was time that he was going to ride a bike. For five hours he worked on his other brother’s bike. The next day he started riding the bike. After an hour and a half, he rode the bike. While he was riding he wondered how he would stop the bike. He forgot that you pedal the bike backward to slow down. He put his feet down, but he was going too fast and face planted on the pavement. He jumped up and shouted in celebration. “It was painful, but the success was so huge that it didn’t matter because I rode a bike,” Aubrey said.
Aubrey not only had the determination to ride a bike, he went on in life and got a dual bachelor’s degree in Economics and English in four years. “Any time we don’t do something hard, it’s because we are looking at how hard the pain is. So when we look at our desires, goals and dreams, and we make it big enough, it becomes bigger than the pain of doing the hard things, then it doesn’t matter,” Aubrey said. He shares his book with kids all the time at schools, and it is a great influence for kids to do things that are hard for them. When he goes to schools and reads his book to kids at assemblies, he asks them if it is important to do hard things. They all say yes.
Not being able to ride a bike has been difficult for Aubrey. He is asked why he is so determined to ride a bike when it has been so painful to learn. His answer to that question is, “because being lonely and bored is more painful and I’m tired of being different. I don’t care what anyone says, I am going to ride a bike. It is showing that I no longer care what the pain it is to ride the bike, I am going to care more about the freedom I will gain by doing something hard,” Aubrey said.
Aubrey believes it is a game changer when you do something hard. If you stay in a sheltered space because you are afraid to do something because of the hardship
or pain, you aren’t going to grow. You have to try things and put the work into what you have a passion for. It builds confidence.
At the age of 32 he had an amazing and traumatic experience at the same time. Ever since he was a little kid he wanted to be a husband and a father. He bought his first townhome, which was a big deal because he was a kid that grew up in rentals. The traumatic thing was he moved into his townhome all by himself. He wasn’t married when he moved into his townhome, and he felt like a failure. He began thinking that the deck had been stacked against him. He felt like the whole reason he wasn’t married was because he had cerebral palsy. He had three long hard years, and he was trying to figure things out. He attended some Tony Robbins seminars that helped him to get rid of his bad stories and make good stories, which was important. He then read a spiritual passage and it taught him that he wasn’t cursed by his maker, but he was actually blessed with cerebral palsy. “Once I realized cerebral palsy was a blessing and not a curse, and the decks weren’t stacked against me, it was stacked in favor for me, that’s when I started speaking on winning despite obstacles,” Aubrey said. The story in his book, “Am I Different” was the foundation of his speech. He helped people learn what the formula of being an inspiration is. He spoke in businesses, schools and organizations. After he would speak, he would have mothers and fathers approach him and say “I wish my kids would have heard this story.” He repeatedly got the message about the inspiration he was to children and businesses, and this was when he decided to write his book. Aubrey knew it was going to take money to write,
get illustrated, copyright and get published. It took him longer than it should have. He was concerned about having the money to get his book published. His determination took him to real estate, and he flipped two houses. But that didn’t work out in his favor. He thought, “I am going to write the book and hope the money shows up as it’s needed, which it did,” Aubrey said.
When Aubrey made the decision that he was going to write his book, it took two and a half years to write and publish his book. He then asked a friend if she would be willing to edit the book and she did. Then he asked another editor, so he had two editors. Between the two of them they did a phenomenal job. His broker’s wife was an editor and she helped edit, too. It took him a year to write his book and then he got Ben Rowberry to illustrate. He has a dedication and passion to write more books.
“This book is dedicated to those who decide to step up and do hard things. I believe that stepping up to do hard things will inspire and motivate others. I wrote this book to help companies, organizations and the rising generation create a culture where doing hard things is the norm and inspiring people is a natural occurrence. Special thanks to the contributors of this book; Ben Rowberry, Kimerly Farmer, Karalee Colton, Cheyenne Nielsen and Charlie Lythgoe. Their hard work and support made this book possible,” Aubrey said.
If you are interested in getting the book, go to www.winningdespiteobstaches.com
Use the code “pride” for 20% off. l
Jonathan Aubrey standing in front of the Book Nook with his bike. (Photo courtesy Winning Despite Obstacles)
Combined high school orchestra ready to grow under new leadership
By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
New high school orchestra director
Zane Lowry kicked-off the school year with the traditional opening social of the combined orchestras of West Jordan and Copper Hills High Schools.
“It gives a chance for the students to get to know each other better and make new friends so that we can be more united as a combined orchestra program,” Lowry said.
Because the orchestras at both high schools are small, they have functioned as a combined orchestra program under the direction of Jenna Baumgart for the past 19 years. Lowry was hired this year to continue running the combined program.
“I want to fill her shoes and not mess it up too much,” Lowry, a first-year teacher, said. “She established a really awesome program and so I’m trying to keep that momentum going.”
At the opening social, students played games, ate food and got to know each other better. They also put notes, trinkets and drawings into a time capsule which will be sealed until the closing banquet in the spring.
“When it is opened, students will have the opportunity to reflect on their personal and musical growth,” Lowry said. “It’s just a fun way for students to look back and see how far they’ve come since the start of the year as well as share memories with each other.”
Orchestra Councilmembers were pleased with the good turnout at the opening social of both orchestra and non-orchestra members. Their goal is to promote the orchestra program to increase support from the student body and the community with more socials and more social media
engagement.
“Orchestra needs to be more noticeable, because it’s starting to fall away,” CHHS Orchestra Councilmember Emery Keyes said. “I’ve noticed that people aren’t into classical music anymore and I think that’s why our job is so important.”
Students are excited to work with Lowry to continue to grow the orchestra program.
“He’s new and it’s different, but he’s doing such a great job,” CHHS junior Zoe Rakich said. “He’s come into this orchestra that has already been something—it’s already a group, we’ve already worked together—so I want us all to have that connection that we had with Ms. B and work on that, but I also just think our goal is to grow as a community in the school.”
Lowry splits his time between the two high schools. The orchestras practice the same pieces separately and then come together to rehearse before giving a combined performance.
Benjamin Wride, a WJHS cellist, said the unique situation gives student musicians the opportunity to learn from each other when they meet together.
“It helps a lot with your tone and your musicality,” he said. “You’re able to pick out what they’re doing wrong, but because they’re doing something else right, you might also be able to tell what you’re doing wrong. It’s really helpful, because in different schools, you’re going to have different problems.”
WJHS cellist Kassandra Turner, a sophomore, said she likes the community the combined orchestra creates.
“Being around a bunch of different people, who all come from different back -
grounds and have different interests, all coming together to make one giant symphony or piece of art—it really brings you together,” she said.
Lowry plans to increase the number
of combined concerts and activities this year. The first combined orchestra concert is Oct. 9 at 7 p.m. at Copper Hills High School. l
West Jordan deploys firefighters to mitigate California wildfires
By Rebecca Olds | rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com
Students from West Jordan and Copper Hills High Schools prepare to play a music Jeopardy game at their orchestra opening social. (Photo by Zoe Rakich)
Orchestra students from West Jordan and Copper Hills High Schools mingle at the combined orchestra opening social. (Photo by Zoe Rakich)
Three firefighters from West Jordan’s Fire Department, David Gray, Roy Todd and Ryan Ottley, were dispatched from the Maverik Center in mid-September to help mitigate California wildfires. The department joined in state-wide efforts to mitigate the fires. The crew is expected back in the end of September or early October. (Photo courtesy West Jordan City)
McDougal Funeral Home –Family Owned and Operated Since 1950
McDougal Funeral Home opened in December 1950, on Redwood Road in Taylorsville. Back then, Redwood Road was not the busy and bustling motorway it is today. Many people did not understand R. David McDougal’s vision in building a funeral home in the middle of farmland. Yet he had a dream to own and run a funeral home unlike any other in the Salt Lake Valley, with a commitment to service that would become second to none. Over the years, David, his wife, Joyce, and his brother, Richard, established just such a business.
One of the ways David made sure McDougal Funeral Home stood out was in the color of his coaches (funeral cars). Instead of the usual choices of black or white or gray, David chose baby blue. And that color stuck! Our
coaches today are still that same baby blue and are easily recognizable by anyone familiar with the McDougal Funeral Home name.
Another way David ensured his staff served with utmost support, was how his directors stayed with the family. The same director received the individual into our care, made arrangements with the family, attended the funeral service, and even drove to the cemetery. We strive to continue that tradition and commitment today. The director you first meet is the director who will see you through the entirety of the funeral.
We have recently opened a new facility adjacent to McDougal Funeral Home. It is home to The Gathering Hall, Forever Loved Pets, and our cremation center. The Gathering Hall is our event center that can be used for funerals, memorial services, open mic events, luncheons following a service, even receptions, business meetings, and family events! Our guests have loved this Hall! Forever Loved Pets is our pet cremation service. Because pets are part of your family too, we provide dignified final arrangements and offer personal support at the time of loss. We offer witness cremations in our beautiful cremation center, with
great respect to individuals who choose this increasingly popular final arrangement.
McDougal Funeral Home is still family owned and operated, with Ron McDougal, David’s greatgrandnephew, carrying on David’s legacy of superior compassion and service. Ron and his staff of highly trained funeral directors, as well as family service counselors, assist families in each detail required for planning services, whether for an immediate need or to make pre-arranged funeral plans. We look forward to serving you and thank you for allowing our family to serve your family!
The Gathering Hall
4306 S Redwood Rd. Taylorsville, UT 84123
McDougal Funeral Home
4330 S Redwood Rd. Taylorsville, UT 84123 801.968.3800
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Visiting astronaut fuels interest in space careers
By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
“ You don’t know it yet, but space is going to be a big part of your life,” Space Foundations Teacher Liaison Jen Jones told Mountain Heights Academy 7-12 graders. “There is a good chance that at least a third of you in this room will, at some time, work in an industry that is supporting space.”
Jones was invited to speak to students as part of Mountain Heights Academy’s STEM Days. She told students about the history of the space program, the present focus on the Artemis moon missions, and the future missions to Mars. She said because space rocket parts are manufactured and tested here, “Utah touches space.”
Astronaut Duane “Digger” Carey USAF LTC (Ret) accompanied Jones and shared his unconventional journey from a low-performing student to becoming a NASA space shuttle pilot. He encouraged students to work hard, especially in math, and to develop hands-on skills to qualify them for jobs in the space industry.
“Space is for you,” he said. “This is your future and you control it and you can be part of it—and let me tell you, it’s the coolest stuff ever.”
Digger emphasized that there is more than one pathway to the space program, which relies on teams of workers who have a variety of skills.
“You can all be involved,” he told students. “The space team needs everybody— dancers, journalists, photographers, artists—we need them all on the space team. There is room for every single kid.”
Mountain Heights Academy is a K-12 virtual charter school, so some students tuned in to the presentation virtually, but the majority of the participants traveled from all over the state to MHA’s building, located in West Jordan, to meet the astronaut, sample “space ice cream” and examine samples of dust and rocks similar to those found on the moon.
Bailey, an eighth-grader, drove nearly an hour to meet Digger and ask him questions about his experiences in space.
“I came because it’s always been my dream to be an astronaut,” Bailey said. “It’s really amazing that this school gives you
Space is for you. This is your future and you control it and you can be part of it—and let me tell you, it’s the coolest stuff ever.
Duane “Digger” Carey
the opportunity to meet an astronaut.”
He found Digger’s message encouraging and was excited to learn more about the progress of the Artemis missions.
Next year, Bailey plans to take MHA’s astronomy class, taught by Aminda Glass, who arranged for the guest speakers.
“Having the opportunity to actually talk to a former astronaut just brings it more to life because they get that interaction,” Glass said. “I mean, how many people actually get that opportunity?”
Glass said there has been an increase in students’ interest in space since the astronomy class was first offered at MHA last year.
“When you see that student excitement, you just want to grab onto it and help it along the way, because that is what engages them and excites them,” Glass said. “As a teacher, whenever you see that excitement, you just want to fuel it and encourage it.”
Glass applied for a grant to arrange for the guest speakers, which she hoped would generate more interest in her astronomy class and also open students’ minds to careers in the space industry.
“It’s nice to have extra resources for students, these extra contacts, because you never know what they’ll decide they want to do whenever they come into the work field,” Glass said. “Jen Jones said NASA is projecting that the space sector is going to be the fastest growing sector in the next 10 years, so they expect a lot more jobs to be open, and this will help our students set up to help fulfill some of those jobs.” l
Continued from front page
es opportunities to observe each other so that students get the best PE experience. Rosenkrantz said it was the ideas she got from other PE teachers at a monthly training that helped her understand and address the challenges she had meeting the needs of her all-day kindergarten students.
“It was just nice to hear from other PE teachers,” she said. “There were a couple of the teachers that had some amazing
ideas last year, and so that was super, super helpful.”
This year, Rojas developed an elementary PE curriculum, with specific lessons and activities that meet the state PE standards. She saw the need for a curriculum because only five of the 40 elementary school PE teachers in Jordan District are certified teachers. Most are parents, with no formal training in PE or teaching, hired for a classroom assistant position and asked to run the school’s PE program.
Some receive direction from the certified classroom teachers, but most are on their own to develop and run the PE program.
“Ideally, we would have a certified team teacher in every elementary, and I would love to move toward that, but there are some barriers that keep us from being able to do that,” Rojas said. Budget for, and availability of, certified PE teachers are two main barriers.
Rojas developed the curriculum with the input of the five certified PE teach-
ers and Rosenkrantz, who has impressed her colleagues with the amount of effort she has invested into her successful program. Rojas said the curriculum has been a game-changing resource for many PE teachers who needed more support, but the best PE teachers, certified or not, are still those who put extra effort and enthusiasm into their programs, which motivates kids to enjoy moving. l
Mountain Heights Academy virtual students meet with NASA space shuttle pilot Duane “Digger” Carey USAF LTC (Ret) and Space Foundations Teacher Liaison Jen Jones. (Photo courtesy Aminda Glass)
NASA space shuttle pilot Duane “Digger” Carey USAF LTC (Ret) talks with Mountain Heights Academy students about his experiences in space. (Photo courtesy Aminda Glass)
WestJordan Middle School students, who weren’t alive when the 9/11 terrorist attack occurred, know September 11 as National Day of Service and Remembrance, a day for joining together as a community to strengthen one another.
“We are better when we’re united and 9/11 helped us learn that,” eighth-grader Claire Mathias said.
West Jordan Middle School health teacher Kathy Howa spoke to her students about what happened on 9/11 and how it affected the people who lived through it.
“I told them that things like that happen, but we have to really learn how to step up for each other and help each other through these tragedies,” Howa said.
Eighth-grader Alison Johnson said the message she got from Howa’s lesson is that looking outside yourself to serve others is a good way to remember the 9/11 tragedy.
“It was a big deal,” she said. “It was scary. Lots of people lost their lives. It’s good to remember that. It doesn’t have to be just about us—it’s about everyone helping our community.”
All six of Howa’s health classes spent this Sept. 11 outside the classroom doing community service. They weeded and picked up garbage on the school grounds
Students learn to care for each other for 9/11
By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
and then took their trash bags into nearby neighborhoods to clean up streets and yards. They also helped with cleaning tasks inside the school.
The service activities fit into the health curriculum by emphasizing the importance of having a social support system.
“Health isn’t just about you, but it can be about the environment,” eighth-grader Brylee Thompson said. “So this is about helping our community, not just about us, just helping out community.”
Students also planted four trees, donated by Glover Nursery, in front of the school in memory of WJMS students who’ve lost their lives to accidents and illness. Howa said talking about tragedy is healthy for kids, because many knew or were even good friends with the students who passed away.
The week following Sept. 11, WJMS’s counseling department staff held Dare to Care Week to encourage students to continue to show up for each other with kindness, empathy and courage.
“We hope this week our students will learn that caring about one another can transform our school community,” WJMS Principal Raimee Jensen said. “This week is dedicated to helping students under-
stand the importance of empathy, inclusion and the positive impact they can have on others. “
Dare to Care Week included lunch time crafts and activities and a No One Sits Alone initiative to encourage students to make connections with others during lunch time. Students participated in discussions about mental health and resources, such as the SafeUT app, to help them to take care of themselves and others.
WJMS also launched a Kindness E-Wall. Students and staff members post
positive messages and memes, which are then shared with the student body on monitors throughout the school. The online space, run through YouUpLift.com and sponsored by Weber State University, will be used all year long to spread positivity among the student body.
“This is a great way for our students to post and see positive social messaging in the school and about the school and our community,” Jensen said. l
West Jordan Middle School students plant trees in front of the school in remembrance of students who’ve lost their lives. (Doug Flagler/JSD)
Itineris
Early College High School just completed building a new gymnasium and PE teacher Lisa Hammond, who has been holding classes outdoors for 10 years, is thrilled to have the indoor space.
“I am not going to have to be outside when the air quality is really bad, I can teach all winter long, and I can incorporate a lot more games,” she said. “We have had to be really creative with our limited space, and now I just have a lot more freedom with games. We’ve already played floor hockey, and the kids were totally excited about that. So that’s something we weren’t able to do before.”
For the past 10 years IECHS has not had a space for indoor PE classes, so Hammond has adapted PE classes to outdoor spaces by partitioning off small areas in the parking lot or having students walk to nearby parks.
Victor Saleido, a senior, said his sophomore PE class was simple.
“We’d go outside and go on a walk or play some small game,” he said.
PE classes were also previously only held during fall and spring.
“Fitness classes normally lasted about half the year, first quarter and final quarter, because the rest of the year had too bad of weather,” Tyler Needham, a senior, said.
Last year, when the school opened to ninth-graders, who required a full semester of
New gymnasium will transform PE program
By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
“With us doubling the size of those younger grades, it just wasn’t conducive to doing PE without a gym anymore,” Edwards said.
Hammond is excited to have the gymnasium and expand her PE program for her students.
“We had such a focus for so many years on our reading, math, science—which is important—but if kids don’t have their health, none of that is going to matter,” she said. “So finding a way where they love to move their body, finding ways to play, ways to recreate, to support their mental and physical health—that’s going to give them the longevity to reach their goals, to find their dreams and to live the life they want to live.”
PE instruction, Hammond organized a partnership with Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
“We bused [students] to jiu jitsu and we did self-defense for half of each semester during the winter months,” Hammond said.
Even during the spring and fall, weather complicated outdoor PE activities.
“We couldn’t do a lot of sports because sometimes there’s a lot of wind, so we can’t really play badminton,” Quyen Lam Nguyen, a
senior, said. “So having a gym is really nice.”
The freestanding gymnasium, built by Stout Construction and AJC Architects, not only houses PE classes and additional classroom space, but it has become a gathering place for students during lunch and after school.
IECHS Principal Renée Edwards said the building became a priority when freshman and sophomore classes, both of which have required PE credits, grew quickly in size.
To engage all types of students, Hammond focuses her classes more on recreation than sports. Students enjoy pickleball and volleyball but also nontraditional games such as spike ball, 9-square-in-the-air and even making up their own games. When playing sports, Hammond often adapts game rules, such as widening the goal area in soccer to make it less intimidating and more enjoyable for all students.
“My goal is for people to like moving,” she said. “And I think a lot of kids get a bad taste in their mouth with PE, feeling like they’re not good at a sport, and I never want that to be a reason for someone to not find a way to love moving their body.” l
School administrators, staff members, board members, city leaders and representatives from Stout Construction and AJC Architects prepare to open Itineris Early College High School’s new auditorium at the Sept. 14 ribbon cutting celebration. (Photo courtesy John Edwards)
Jazzy funk band livening up the music scene in Salt Lake
By Linda Steele | l.steele@mycityjournals.com
The local jazzy funk band Ubergruv played at Jordan Landing Sept. 5. It was a fun filled evening with great music. Ubergruv gets Salt Lake City moving with its jazzy, funky, Latin spice music.
The name is what it implies according to the group. Uber (greatest, highest, most extreme) and Gruv (groovy music that causes spontaneous bodily actions like fingers snappin’, toes tappin’, hands clappin’, and heads bobbin’).
Ubergruv has been together for 15 months now. Each band member has a long, well-seasoned history of music.
The band members have an array of musical talent. The multi-talented Kevin Flynn is an instrumentalist playing soprano, tenor, alto, baritone saxes, as well as flute, harmonica and various percussion instruments. Flynn recently played in The Fabulous Flynn’stones and his jazz quartet Svengali.
“We like to play tunes with a strong melody and add our own improvisations, which are essentially spontaneous compositions, on the fly. Each soloist tells a story by doing this, which can sometimes lead to surprising emotional peaks and exUBERance,” Flynn said.
Troy Horton plays guitar and bass. Troy graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in Jazz Guitar Performance in 1999. He has played in local bands Sound Garden, Ultra Chill and Hectic Hobo. He has recently played with the Flynn’stones. He loves all styles of music, but he especially enjoys jazz and funk. Dean Athens is a native to Utah. He plays
the bass in a variety of different styles and plays with several local artists. He enjoys moving his listeners by entertaining them and inspiring them to move.
Tom Scharlow has been involved in music his whole life. He’s been playing in Utah since 1977. Tom has played in Remarkable Lucid and The Golden Voices Gospel Ensemble. He has played at Ciscero’s in Park City, a house band in Park City named Powder and Slick Rock Gypsies. He recently played with The Fabulous Flynn’stones. Scharlow is excited to play drums for Ubergruv.
“Ubergruv loves being part of the local music scene in Salt Lake. They are grateful for the beautiful outdoor venues available,” Scharlow said.
Jeff Pickett is a native of Utah. He has been playing professional piano since he was 15 years old. He enjoys playing with groups because of the conversations the musicians have while playing music together. His music includes a little of everything. He especially has a love for jazz, classical Spanish flamenco and Brazilian. Pickett has been able to play with top jazz musicians such as Mambo Jumbo, Woody James Quartet, Earl and the Apostles, Rumba Libre and the great jazz musician Wynton Marsalis.
Ubergruv plays at Excellence in the Community concerts and the Gallivan Event centers, bringing music to audiences while they dance, toe tap and hand clap.
To find out more information about this jazzy funk band, go to ubergruv.com. l
The ToshoCON epic Anime Teen Convention took place Sept. 13 and 14. It was bright and colorful with an array of creative costumes. The Viridian Center at the county library was being taken over with the excitement of cosplayers, K-pop Random dances, Super Smash Brothers Tournaments and Anime lovers at the convention. Teens and fans were drawn into this convention from all over Utah and outside of Utah. This two-day convention was a free event which celebrated Anime, Manga and Pop Culture.
The positive part of this convention is that it helps teens get involved and use their creativity and talent. This convention is completely teen-led using their talents in competitions in Anime music video, cosplay, art and comics. Teens have created their own businesses where they enjoy K-pop random dancing and connect with fans.
“Teens have created an incredible community at ToshoCON. Their energy, creativity and enthusiasm make this event truly special. It’s not just a convention. It’s a celebration of everything they love, and we’re thrilled to provide a space where they can fully express themselves and connect with others who share their interests,” Senior Librarian Leonides Ortiz said.
For the Cosplay Contest, teens transformed into their favorite character. They used their creativity to make a costume with a chance to win a prize. The categories were beginner, intermediate and skit.
ToshoCON Anime Teen Convention 2024
By Linda Steele | l.steele@mycityjournals.com
Participants in the art contest chose to draw, paint, sketch or digitally create their favorite anime character, or they created their own original piece. First, second and third place prizes were awarded in each of the categories, which are black and white, color and mixed media.
At the comic contest, the contestants created their own comic either individually or with a group.
Also, there is an AMV contest. The
contestants entered an Anime Music Video and won prizes. For this contest you can submit by yourself or with a group.
Another fun activity at ToshoCON included hosting an in-character information session. Friends came together and became panelists at ToshoCON.
There were participants that strutted their stuff on stage and joined the Idol Showcase. Anyone can perform a skit or dance that is related to an idol group or an-
ime. This activity is not judged, it’s just for fun to show off your costumes and skills. A very fun event for teens to enjoy making their costumes, setting up panels, strutting their stuff onstage and being creative. This is a great opportunity for them to be involved and use all their creative ideas. This ToshoCON convention can help build teenagers’ confidence and help them realize their potential while they are having a lot of fun. l
Colorful hair was in fashion. (Photo courtesy Audrey Livingston)
Two kids, one with white blouse ruffled collared, the other kid standing behind Courtesy Linda Steele
Kids sitting down with different colored hair Courtesy Audrey Livingston
Cosplay Beginners kid in black costume, yellow hair, orange material on her arms Courtesy Audrey Livingston
Drone operator training is revolutionizing road safety
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
As part of their investigations, Utah Highway Patrol troopers and other law enforcement officers may use drones as one of their tools to have measurable data to determine what exactly happened in an accident. They maintain it’s a cost-effective and safer way to resume the traffic flow.
“When we’re doing a scene, these drones are more accurate,” UHP trooper Devan Biggs said. “They’re able to communicate marks to the satellites to measure skid marks, for example, and we know it is within however many centimeters. That’s more accurate than me taking my yard stick or tape measure.”
The drones are not only more accurate, but they’re also more cost-effective to get traffic resumed sooner, said Douglas Spotted Eagle, director of client experiences with the Las Vegas-based The LiDAR Pros, a team that instructs trainers on drones and is part of the Sundance Media Group, a training and education organization for 30 years.
“It’s been determined that every time there’s a road closure in the heart of Las Vegas, it costs about $150,000 per minute per mile,” he said. “When there’s a crash on the freeway, people can’t get to work. People can’t make deliveries. Tours can’t make their destinations. A typical fatal crash in Salt Lake, can take three to four hours to investigate, sometimes more. Drones can save us hours with crash sites. Sometimes, it almost takes longer to change the drone battery than it does to set up the specific mission. I can fly it in five minutes from the time I get it out of the box to being able to help traffic get moving again.”
Drone use isn’t new to the world, but the technology is being used more commonly. They’re used for hospital deliveries; surveying; inspecting bridge, dam and cell towers; mapping; construction; aerial photography; preventing possible mudslides and more. Drone education is being taught in public schools and professionals have a FAA Part 107 pilot license.
“Utah is probably one of the top states in the country pushing drone programs,” Spotted Eagle said.
His colleague, Ben Goddard, agrees: “If you can imagine a way to use a drone, we can find a way to make it work. We’ve done about everything. Drones are a flexible and versatile tool in anybody’s tool bag.”
Recently, both drone pilots were part of a three-person team that was instructing Utah Department of Transportation trainers how to teach fellow troopers to operate drone programs during a five-day intensive course.
“It takes a lot of dedication to go through this course; there is both a practical and a written test that has to be passed to qualify and certify as a trainer,” Goddard said. “Everything we do is done under ISO (International Organization for Standardization) standards. Everything is done safely, and if we see any anything that stands out to any of our instructor
examiners, we will stop the operation, as will the instructors.”
As part of their evaluation, the instructors taught volunteers ranging from high school students to retirees.
“We train new trainers so the state agencies, such as UDOT and the Utah Highway Patrol, and some of the municipalities, can be self-sufficient, so that they don’t have to hire outside pilots to come in. We are teaching them how to run and develop their training programs for drones,” he said, adding the trainings are offered quarterly.
In addition to course work, the seven trainers used Autel EVO II drones, a foldable pocket drone, to teach the volunteer students. Only one of their students had any experience with drones, years ago.
That volunteer student was retiree John Leonard, who started the drone program with UDOT’s incident management team. Now, there are about 28 certified pilots within the team and 55 overall with UDOT.
That’s where Goddard, who has his professional pilot’s license, started teaching in 2000.
“We’ve been able to use drones so much more with the new age of them about 10 or 12 years ago,” he said. “Right now, there’s a great need for pilots, so we are seeing an uptick in number of training classes. That uptick comes with development of new roadways and the growth Utah is seeing. The more we see the growth in Utah, the more need there is for qualified pilots to be able to help assist and save taxpayers money by flying drones to collect data ahead of events or during events.”
Utah Highway Patrol trooper Steve Crowe was under review to become a certified trainer and was giving feedback to a volunteer student.
“You listen well, and you move the con-
the highway that the drone will fly,” he said.
Goddard, who estimated the drones being used cost $1,800 to $2,100, said the drone can connect with 10 to 30 satellites at a time, which helps increase its accuracy.
Leonard said accuracy is important with Utah traffic as there are more vehicles on fewer interstates than other states.
“Literally taking an hour off of a crash investigation could be tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars to the economy, or even millions if we’re doing a full freeway shutdown,” he said. “For example, if I-80 was closed in Parleys Canyon, trucks and the main traffic would be diverted either to Provo Canyon or to Ogden Canyon so you’re talking an hour out of direction for 50-60 miles. When that’s multiplied by tens of thousands of vehicles. It can be very substantive.”
Leonard said that was the mission behind starting the program, which several year ago, saw 18,000 reportable incidents that impacted traffic.
trols smoothly; it’s just a matter of repetition to remember what the sticks do,” he told her.
She had just flown the drone for the first time, from making sure the space outside of UDOT’s traffic operations center was clear to take off to maneuvering it forward, backward, side to side, higher and lower, and landing.
Crowe is part of the major crash investigation team. He will help oversee training for the other 40 drone operators within his department. There also are drones within the dive and SWAT teams.
“I got into the drones with crash investigation; it was something I’ve always been interested in,” he said. “I practice flying drones twice a month, just to keep up on things. I enjoy the teaching aspect of it. Teaching drones is a natural progression.”
Biggs also enjoys flying drones. As a pilot of five years, he appreciates the bigger picture it provides when they stitch together photos they have taken of a crash scene.
“I really like the end product, it helps to wrap your mind around the scene,” he said. “When we fly drones, we take pictures, and then a program interlays them all together into one big picture with a top-down view. It’s easier for me to process the scene and get the perspective from one big view than individual pictures.”
Biggs said the program can 3D print a crash scene to help troopers better illustrate a scene.
“It just gives us a lot more data and resources; it’s another process we can use to determine what happened,” he said.
Leonard said when drone are used, it’s on a defined mission.
“The operators plot their missions, and then the drone automatically flies it so that it gets the correct overlaps and everything. They will pull up the satellite and outline the area on
“The goal of the incident management team is to reduce the impacts of incidents that happen on Utah’s highways and by assisting and supplementing the investigating agency. With the foresight of the drone program, we realized we could expedite the clearance of the incident and restore traffic much earlier, which is a significant benefit to the traveling public and to Utah’s economy,” he said.
With colleague Boyd Frank, Leonard introduced the incident management team in Utah in 1994, laying the groundwork several years earlier. Originally funded with a Wasatch Front Regional Council grant under the Clean Air Act, it was a way to clear traffic effectively and reduce idling and emissions.
“We proved that reducing the duration of an incident improved air quality because there’s less idling, people can go through the incident area quicker and more efficiently. When IMT determined it was worthwhile to keep, it became funded through UDOT,” he said.
As a licensed professional traffic operations engineer, Leonard oversaw the incident management team twice before recently retiring. He was awarded the American Traffic Safety Services Association’s National Safety Award after helping write a section of the national manual on traffic control and management.
“Drones are one of the tools in the toolbox that the incident management team can use to reduce the duration of incidents that are happening,” Leonard said. “Because of that, it’s making Utah roads safer. By reducing the duration of the incident, there’s less exposure to the people responding to the crash or incidents, as well as the public that has to go through an incident zone — and hopefully, prevent a secondary crash, which oftentimes can be worse than the first crash.” l
Utah Highway Patrol troopers, overseen by The LiDAR Pros, teach volunteers how to fly a drone as part of their course to be flight instructors. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Insports, players can’t measure success by wins and accolades alone. That’s the way members of the Copper Hills girls tennis team see it.
The Grizzlies have their ups and downs in the win-loss column, and they face stiff competition in Region 2. But regardless of what happens on the scoreboard, the players are making progress and having positive experiences that they believe will stay with them for years beyond high school.
Seniors Gretta Clayton and Annie Elzinga, who both play doubles, have been two of the top performers for the Grizzlies this season. They have also emerged as leaders and mentors to the younger players on the team. Both have exhibited hard work and positive attitudes.
“[Clayton] has been a great leader for the team,” head coach Lindsay Swenson said. “Also, [Elzinga] has been a great contributor to the team over the years and has the best record for our varsity players this season.”
Both Clayton and Elzinga are four-year players for Copper Hills, having been on the team since their freshman years. Clayton, a team captain, plays one of the doubles positions with teammate Zoe Hein. Clayton didn’t play tennis before joining the Grizzlies, but she quickly picked up the sport and has enjoyed it ever since. Not only does Clayton like competing and learning skills, but she has loved being able
to get to know teammates and opponents and develop friendships.
“My sister Maggie got me into tennis my freshman year, and since then I have absolutely loved it,” Clayton said. “I enjoy getting outside,
meeting new people and making friends. I love meeting new people because it’s something new and fun. Although during a match you don’t talk to each other a whole lot, but just being able to go against them is a super fun experience! At the end of the day, connection is what you get out of it.”
Nothing has come easy for Clayton. She has spent a lot of time on the court practicing and honing her skills. She has had to overcome setbacks and disappointments, but she has prioritized tennis, though she plays other sports, too.
“To be where I am on the team, it has taken practice, dedication, effort and learning from my mistakes,” Clayton said. “As a multi-sport athlete, tennis has always come first.”
Though high school sports can get competitive and intense, Clayton said Swenson emphasizes playing fairly and being a good sport. The Grizzlies have a good reputation around the region of being respectful and treating everyone well.
“Being on a team at Copper Hills means the world to me,” Clayton said. “I’m proud to say that we have the best sportsmanship in the region. This team is so understanding and fun to be around. We all support each other on and off the courts.”
Time is winding down in Clayton’s final year on the Copper Hills team. She has worked hard to go out playing her best and being prepared for every match. Because much of tennis is mental, Clayton has focused on that aspect of the game. She said improved mental strength has helped her both at tennis and at school.
“As a senior this year, one thing I got out of this sport would be knowing how to fix my mindset,” she said. “Mindset plays into a lot of things, but most importantly, it has helped me with school and getting along with others. One thing I’m looking to improve on is being on my
toes. Being on your toes keeps you ready for the next point, next game, next set and next match.”
Clayton is grateful that her senior season has been an enjoyable one. She is happy with the strong bond at Copper Hills and with the efforts everyone has made to improve and achieve the team’s goals.
“This season has been one of the best seasons yet,” she said. “I love being a captain for this team and supporting the girls. I hope at the end of the season girls do what it takes to get to state.”
Clayton intends to join the Air National Guard after high school and then earn a bachelor’s degree in aviation. She hopes to play tennis at the next level, too.
As for Elzinga, she echoes many of Clayton’s comments about being a part of the girls tennis team at Copper Hills. She likes playing alongside like-minded girls who share the same goals and passions for the sport.
“The best part about being on the team is having others who love a sport just as much as you do around you every day,” she said. “I love seeing them in the halls at school and being able to find a familiar face.”
Elzinga also began playing as a freshman. She wanted to represent Copper Hills by being on a team, and tennis appealed to her. She believes playing for the Grizzlies has helped her improve not only as a tennis player but as a person.
“I love tennis because it is about self-growth and not necessarily team growth,” she said. “I have gained so much confidence in myself while I have played over the years.”
After high school, Elzinga wants to attend college and maybe serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Elzinga doesn’t plan on leaving the game behind when she graduates from Copper Hills.
“I have enjoyed playing tennis and hope I will be able to play it for a lifetime, maybe in some leagues or in college,” she said.
But there’s still time this season for Elzinga and her teammates to leave their mark.
She believes the team has gotten better throughout the season and is more prepared for postseason play than it was a year ago.
“I feel like we have improved so much more this year than past years,” she said. “I hope we will be able to play well at the region tournament and go on to play at state.
We have put in lots of hard work, offseason practice and lessons—just playing a lot.”
As a player, Elzinga prides herself in her abilities as a doubles player. She said she “plays really well at the net.”
“A good volley instantly makes my day better,” she said.
Copper Hills hopes to qualify Clayton, Elzinga and other team members for the Class 6A state tournament, which starts with first-round action Oct. 5 at Brighton High School. The later rounds, including the finals, will be Oct. 10 and 12 at Liberty Park in Salt Lake City. l
Annie Elzinga, shown here from action earlier this season, is one of the top players for the Copper Hills girls tennis team. The senior is looking forward to postseason play. (Photo courtesy Lindsay Swenson)
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The Garden of Resurrection is thoughtfully designed to offer a peaceful and tranquil space where families can reflect and honor their loved ones.
The Garden will offer a variety of burial options, including single plots, companion spaces, family estates, and cremation options. Each space will accommodate different needs and preferences, ensuring that every family can find the right resting place for their loved ones.
HALLOWEEN SECTION
A publication covering local Halloween legends and activities for everyone around the Salt Lake Valley
6 terrifying haunted locations in Salt Lake County to visit this Halloween
By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com
When the air grows chilly and the veil between worlds thins during Halloween, Salt Lake County becomes a playground for the paranormal. This region, steeped in history and folklore, is home to some of Utah’s most spine-chilling locations where ghost sightings and eerie encounters are the norm. Whether you’re a thrill seeker or a believer in the supernatural, these terrifying places will give you goosebumps long after you’ve left. If you're looking for a truly terrifying Halloween experience, here are the scariest haunted spots in Salt Lake County.
Fear Factory
Located just outside downtown Salt Lake City, Fear Factory isn’t just a haunted attraction for thrill seekers—it’s a real-life haunted site. Once the Portland Cement Factory, this massive industrial facility was the scene of numerous gruesome deaths, including factory accidents where workers were crushed by machinery or fell into vats of cement. Today, the factory stands abandoned, except for the reported spirits of the workers who died there.
Visitors and staff at Fear Factory have reported hearing eerie whispers, seeing shadowy figures dart across the dilapidated buildings, and feeling an oppressive energy that seems to follow them. One of the most harrowing sightings is that of a disembodied hand, believed to belong to a worker who lost his life in a terrible accident. On Halloween, the site transforms into a commercial haunted house, but many say the real terror is the spirits that never left.
The Old Mill
Arguably the most infamous haunted location in Salt Lake County, the Old Mill sits abandoned in Cottonwood Heights, shrouded in mystery and fear. Built in the late 1800s, the mill was used to process
grain before a fire destroyed much of the building. While the mill has stood vacant for decades, it has gained a reputation as one of Utah’s most terrifying places.
Local legends claim that the Old Mill is haunted by the ghosts of workers who died in the fire, as well as by more sinister forces. Paranormal investigators have reported intense cold spots, phantom footsteps, and feelings of dread upon entering the property. The most terrifying accounts tell of shadowy figures watching from the upper floors, and some visitors claim to have been physically touched or shoved by unseen hands. Trespassing is illegal, but that hasn’t stopped urban explorers from visiting—many of whom leave in a hurry, spooked by the unsettling atmosphere.
The Shilo Inn
The Shilo Inn, now a Holiday Inn Express, is one of Salt Lake City's most tragic and haunted locations. In 1978, the hotel became the site of a horrific mass murder-suicide when a mother, who had become obsessed with religious doomsday beliefs, threw her seven children from the hotel’s balcony before leaping to her death. The tragedy shocked the community, and ever since, the hotel has been plagued by paranormal activity.
Guests have reported hearing the sound of children crying or laughing in the hallways, even when no children are staying there. Some have woken up to see ghostly children standing at the foot of their bed, only for the figures to disappear moments later. The hotel's staff also report eerie occurrences, such as flickering lights, doors opening and closing on their own, and sudden cold drafts. This real-life horror makes the former Shilo Inn one of the most unsettling locations in Salt Lake County and a place few would dare stay on Halloween night.
The Old Deseret Hospital
Located near the historic Avenues District in Salt Lake City, the Old Deseret Hospital opened its doors in 1882, catering mainly to women and children. While the hospital is long gone, many locals believe that the spirits of patients who died there still linger. Those who visit the area report hearing phantom cries, especially at night, and some have even seen the apparition of a nurse walking down where the hospital once stood.
Today, the location is a hotspot for ghost hunters who claim that the residual energy from the building still haunts the area. As the sun sets, the once-bustling neighborhood can take on a much more somber and eerie tone, making it the perfect place for a Halloween exploration.
The Rio Grande Depot
A hub of history, The Rio Grande Depot in Salt Lake City was once a bustling train station. Now home to offices and a museum, it’s better known for the ghostly “Purple Lady,” a spectral figure seen wan-
dering the building. According to legend, the Purple Lady died on the train platform in the 1920s after a lover’s quarrel. Distraught, she either fell or was pushed in front of a train, her body mangled in the accident.
Since then, her ghost has been spotted by countless people, often appearing in her elegant purple dress, wandering the halls or standing at the end of the platform. Lights flicker mysteriously, and security guards working after hours have reported objects moving on their own and the feeling of being watched. The depot’s cavernous halls amplify every sound, making even the slightest noise unsettling. On Halloween night, the energy in the depot becomes even more intense, and many believe it’s the best time to catch a glimpse of the Purple Lady herself.
Asylum 49
Technically located just outside Salt Lake County in Tooele, Asylum 49 de-
Continued on page 23
Which haunted house is the best in Utah?
By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com
When does “spooky season” really start? For most of the haunted attractions in Utah, the answer appears to be September.
But when the attractions open, how do you know where to go? Well, reviews have a lot to say when it comes to that. Here are the most highly rated haunted attractions in Utah.
Some attractions may not be included on this list if certain information—such as Google reviews, websites, or a 2024 schedule—was not available.
Castle of Chaos Haunted House and Escape Rooms, Midvale
Castle of Chaos Haunted House and Escape Rooms is a year-round attraction that has earned a 4.6-star rating from more than 2,600 Google reviews. The attraction has a 3.7-star rating from 110 reviews on Yelp.
The haunted house attraction is open Sept. 6 and will run most weekends for the remainder of September. In October, the haunted house will be open for most days except for the first three Wednesdays.
The haunted escape rooms have many different themes: Paranormal, “Nightmare Realm,” serial killer, asylum
and lockdown. Tickets for the escape rooms range from $27 to $30.
The haunted house starts at $20 for groups of one to six people.
Nightmare on 13th, Salt Lake City
Nightmare on 13th is a haunted house located in Salt Lake City and its website declares its “Utah’s No. 1 scariest haunted house,” and the attraction boasts a 4.5star rating from more than 2,000 Google reviews. On Yelp, the haunted house has a 4-star average from about 80 reviews.
Nightmare on 13th is scheduled to open Friday, Sept. 13 and will run on Fridays and Saturdays for the remainder of September. In October, the haunted house will be open most days except Sunday. The haunted house will also run the first two days of November.
Tickets can range from $25 to $76 depending on the days and times you choose to attend.
Fear Factory, Salt Lake City
Fear Factory in Salt Lake City is located at 666 W. 800 South, and says on its website that it's “one of the top Halloween attractions in the world.”
Based on more than 2,600 Google
reviews, it averages a 4.4-star rating from visitors. On Yelp, it averages a 3.3-star rating from just over 110 reviews.
Fear Factory is set to open Friday, Sept. 6 and will be open on weekends in September before opening Wednesday through Sunday for most of October. The haunted house will be open for “Lights Out Night” on the first two days of November.
Tickets for Fear Factory can range from about $30 to about $250 depending on which experiences and souvenirs you’re interested in.
Haunted Forest, American Fork
The Haunted Forest in American Fork averages about 4.2 stars from almost 1,300 Google reviews, and 2.8 stars from 33 Yelp reviews.
The attraction doesn’t have a set schedule available online for 2024, but has advertised its featured attractions for 2024: Leech Lagoon at Bone Creek and Alien Attack.
Strangling Brothers Haunted Circus, American Fork
The Strangling Bros. Haunted Circus in American Fork has earned a 4-star rating from more than 660 reviews on Google. On Yelp, it’s garnered a 2.8-star rating
from about 40 reviewers.
The haunted circus’s website said it was “voted the No. 1 scariest haunted house in Utah” but it also offers visitors the chance to walk through the forest without the scare actors.
The circus is expected to begin Friday, Sept. 13 and will continue on Fridays and Saturdays for the rest of the month. Starting Oct. 1, the attraction will be open most days except Sunday.
Tickets for the haunted attraction can range from $30 to $80 depending on whether you purchase general admission, fast pass or VIP tickets.
Other Haunted Options
While there are far more haunted attractions than those listed, the attractions listed about are what the public deems to be the best of the best. A few other attractions in Utah are listed below:
• Asylum 49, Tooele
• Field of Fear, West Haven
• Frightmares, (Lagoon Theme Park) Farmington
• Hidden Lake Haunts, Bountiful
• Night Stalkers Haunted Trail, West Jordan
Why we love to be scared: The psychology behind Halloween thrills
By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com
As the days grow shorter and the air crisper, a curious transformation takes place. Porches are adorned with jack-o'-lanterns, cobwebs, and eerie decorations, and people willingly seek out haunted houses, scary movies and tales of the macabre. The question arises: why do we love to be scared, especially around Halloween?
At the heart of this fascination is the adrenaline rush that accompanies fear. When faced with a frightening situation— whether it’s the jump-scare in a horror film or the ominous creak of a floorboard in a haunted house—our bodies react instinctively. The "fight or flight" response kicks in, releasing adrenaline and other stress hormones that heighten our senses and quicken our pulse. This surge of energy can be thrilling, especially when we know we are in no real danger. It’s the same reason people enjoy extreme sports or roller coasters; the controlled risk makes the experience exhilarating rather than terrifying.
Beyond the physical thrill, there’s a deeper psychological process at play: catharsis. Halloween, with its focus on the eerie and the supernatural, provides a socially acceptable outlet for exploring our
fears. In everyday life, we often suppress feelings of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. Engaging with scary stories or participating in Halloween rituals allows us to confront these emotions head-on, in a safe and controlled environment. This confrontation can lead to a sense of release or relief, a psychological cleansing that leaves us feeling lighter and more at ease.
Another key aspect of why we enjoy being scared around Halloween is the social element. Fear, much like laughter, can be contagious. When we experience something frightening with others— whether it’s huddling together during a horror movie or navigating a haunted maze as a group—we create shared memories and bond over the mutual experience. The laughter and camaraderie that often follow a good scare are part of what makes these experiences enjoyable. They bring people closer, fostering a sense of connection and community.
The tradition of celebrating fear during Halloween has deep cultural roots. Originating from ancient Celtic festivals like Samhain, where people believed the veil between the living and the dead was at its thinnest, Halloween has long been asso-
ciated with the supernatural. Over time, these traditions evolved, blending with other cultural practices to create the Halloween we know today—a holiday where the scary, the strange, and the spooky are celebrated. Participating in these rituals, whether by donning a scary costume or telling ghost stories, is a way of connecting with these ancient traditions and honoring the past.
There’s also an element of curiosity
and exploration in our love of Halloween scares. The unknown, the mysterious, and the macabre have always fascinated humanity. Halloween provides a socially acceptable opportunity to delve into these darker aspects of life, to question what lies beyond the veil of our everyday existence. It’s a time to explore themes that are often taboo, such as death, the supernatural, and the afterlife, in a way that is both playful and profound.
Halloween offers a form of escapism. In a world filled with daily routines and responsibilities, the chance to immerse ourselves in a night of fantasy and fear is a welcome diversion. It allows us to step out of our ordinary lives and into a world where anything can happen—a world of ghosts, goblins and ghouls.
So, as you carve your pumpkin, don your costume, or settle in for a scary movie this Halloween, remember that the thrill of fear is not just a seasonal pastime. It’s a complex, multifaceted experience that taps into deep-seated psychological needs and cultural traditions, making it a beloved part of the Halloween season.
10 family-friendly Halloween activities this month
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Halloween is a spooky time for families to create lasting memories. From eerie displays to costume contests, many activities in Salt Lake County cater to all ages, ensuring everyone gets in on the festive spirit. These family-friendly, spine-tingling adventures will bring excitement to your Halloween celebrations while keeping the scares at a comfortable level.
BooLights, Hogle Zoo (2600 Sunnyside Ave., SLC)
Specific nights from Oct. 2-30, 6:309:30 p.m., $12.95-$18.95
This after-hours light display transforms Hogle Zoo into a bewitching destination. With entertainment and attractions like Dr. Frankenstein's Lab Show at the Wildlife Theatre, the event is the perfect way to celebrate the season. Costumes are allowed, but face-covering masks and any resemblance of weapons are prohibited. Check HogleZoo.org for dates. Little Haunts, This is the Place Heritage Park (2601 Sunnyside Ave., SLC)
October 11, 12, 18, 19, 25 and 26, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., $14.95-$18.95
Don your costumes and visit This is the Place for storytelling, trick-or-treating and take-home crafts. Learn about creepy bugs at the Creature Encounters and enjoy the petting corral, pony and train rides and more. Bring your own trick-or-treat bag. Tickets at ThisIsThePlace.org.
Riverton Halloween Bash, Riverton City Park (12600 S. 1452 West)
Monday, Oct. 14, 6-8 p.m., FREE
This annual Halloween tradition features age-appropriate games and activities for every family member. Snap holiday
pictures at the photo booth and enjoy the Scare Rodeo spook alley. Families are encouraged to wear costumes.
BOOtanical, Red Butte Garden (300 Wakara Way, SLC)
Oct. 17-30, Members $13, Public $16
BOOtanical Nights, 6-9 p.m. and BOOtanical Days, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Visit the magical world of Wonderland, where you can find hidden seeds and stop the Jabberwocky from transforming Wonderland forever. Join the adventure at RedButteGarden.org.
The Haunted Woods, Murray City Park (296 E. Murray Park Ave.)
Oct. 21-25, 5:30-9 p.m., $5
A family-friendly haunted attraction, the Haunted Woods offers a “Silly Trail” and a scarier “Spooky Trail” so everyone can have fun. All proceeds fund child abuse prevention programs. Tickets at MurrayHauntedWoods.com.
Monster Mash dance party, West Valley City Family Fitness Center (5415 W. 3100 South)
Friday, Oct. 25, 6-8 p.m., $5 per person, 50% off for members
The West Valley Halloween Dance Party is a fun time for the family with dancing, balloons and a costume contest. Pre-register by Wednesday, Oct. 23 at WVC-Ut.gov.
Halloween Fun Fest & Disability Resource Fair, Miller Conference Center (9750 S. 300 West, Sandy)
Saturday, Oct. 26, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., FREE
This event features trick-or-treating, sensory activities and DJ Rebecca to
keep the music hopping. Caregivers can chat with experts and find resources. Costumes welcome!
Samhain Festival, Gallivan Center (239 S. Main Street, SLC)
Sunday, Oct. 27, Noon-7 p.m., $13$15
Experience Samhain, the festival marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. Learn pagan traditions, enjoy live entertainment and food trucks, and activities for all ages.
Halloween Spooktacular, Abravanel Hall (123 W. South Temple, SLC)
Tuesday, Oct. 29, $8-$45 Wear a costume to this night of
hair-raising melodies featuring music from Halloween favorites. Watch and listen as members of the Utah Symphony bring monsters to life. Find tickets at UtahSymphony.org.
Día de los Muertos celebration (Millcreek Common, 1354 E. Chambers Ave., Millcreek) Oct. 27-Nov. 2, FREE
Celebrate Día de los Muertos at Millcreek Common. Bring photos of loved ones for the community Ofrenda and enjoy the Halloween Party on Oct. 31 from 7-10 p.m. The big celebration is on Nov. 2, from 6-9 p.m., with the La Catrina parade, mariachi music, face painting, traditional treats and the movie “Coco.”
Continued from page 21
serves a mention for its terrifying proximity and haunted history. Once a hospital, this site is now a full-fledged haunted attraction. But while actors and special effects create a terrifying show, the real horror lies in the ghosts that are said to haunt the building.
Former patients of the hospital are believed to roam the halls, and many visitors have claimed to see shadow figures, hear ghostly voices, and feel sudden cold spots. Paranormal investigators have documented disembodied voices and even poltergeist activity in certain rooms. Unlike most haunted houses, Asylum 49 encourages interaction with both the living and
the dead, making it one of the most immersive and frightening haunted locations in Utah. If you're looking for an experience that blurs the line between entertainment and real paranormal encounters, this is the place to go.
Salt Lake County is filled with ghostly tales and terrifying haunted sites, each with its own dark history and eerie energy. From the real-life tragedy at the Shilo Inn to the haunted corridors of the Old Mill, these locations offer a chilling experience that will make for a Halloween night you won’t forget. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, these haunted places are sure to give you a scare, leaving you wondering what might be lurking just out of sight.
Families have a variety of choices when choosing fun holiday activities in October. (Stock photo)
The Old Mill in Cottonwood Heights. (File photo City Journals)
Draper’s Kuwahara’s Pumpkin Patch and Thriller Park open for the season
By Rebecca Olds | rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com
Kuwahara’s Pumpkin Patch and Thriller Park opened for the season on Sept. 20, giving thrill seekers more than a month to enjoy the park. Alex Kuwahara, the park’s owner, started the pumpkin patch when he was 12 years old at the original location now called Kuwahara Wholesale. It’s since grown into a pumpkin patch paradise with 25 to 30 different varieties of locally-grown pumpkins and pumpkin archways. He now runs the park along with his wife Sarah Kuwahara.
“That was a big expansion when we started to decorate our tunnels and do it all,” she said. “I mean, we always decorated them but when we made the switch to making it a real wow factor, that's definitely what puts us on the map in pumpkin patches.”
In 2016, the thriller part of the park was added and has been growing ever since.
“I would like the community to know just how much goes into this,” Sarah Kuwahara said. “We have lots of immersive attractions…[and] lots of employees here to make it awesome, so it really is a bang for your buck when you think about what
you're getting.”
Overall, the park employs about 120 people to make the experience as smooth and as fun for the crowds as possible.
More than 30 attractions draw crowds yearly, including the pumpkin patch, haunted house, Halloween Main Street, Once Upon a Time land, corn maze, Grand Bizarre, a magician and more. A crowning feature of the park is the shows and dance parties on the center stage, keeping the Halloween atmosphere alive with live entertainment ranging from fire dancers to musical performances.
Kuwahara said that park visitors can expect a reimagined pirate show to make a reappearance and the popular fire show to be back this season.
During the 2023 season, Kuwahara said more than 40,000 people visited the park and she expects even more this year.
Her advice for those experiencing the park for the first time or the 100th time is to come at night.
“At night, you really get to experience the lights and all the fun,” she said, with a big smile.
More information on park hours, pricing and events can be found online at www.kuwaharawholesale.com.
A mom takes a picture of her kids in Kuwahara’s Pumpkin Patch on opening night of the park, Sept. 20.
Known as a go-to fall picture destination, these teens came dressed for the occasion with crocheted pumpkin hats.
In the Grand Bizarre, vendors like Angie Broadbent (left) from Gemini Twins Art Studio and Photography, dress in their best ghoulish costumes to sell their wares.
Dracula was the first performance to don the stage during opening night of the park on Sept. 20. (Photos by Rebecca Olds/City Journals)
Face painting artist, Terri Williams, shows her customer the first glimpse at her handiwork in the Grand Bizarre. (Rebecca Olds/City Journals)
The Once Upon a Time addition to the park gives kids (and parents) a chance to immerse themselves in the magic of the season. (Rebecca Olds/City Journals)
Kuwahara’s is full of magical decorations to set the scene in each part of the park. (Rebecca Olds/City Journals)
Parkgoers enter the park’s corn maze. (Rebecca Olds/City Journals)
To the left of the park entrance is an archway that leads to the big stage. (Rebecca Olds/City Journals)
This is a local family’s second year going to the park where carts allow for easy pumpkin towing when you’ve found the best pumpkin in the patch.
A brave little girl is held up by her mom while she rings the bell to the cheers of a park employee before she enters the haunted house. The entrance to the pumpkin patch where more than 25 varieties of pumpkins await.
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Dunkin Donuts hosts Savannah Bananas in West Jordan
By Linda Steele | l.steele@myityjournals.com
Visit Any Branch Today!
Savannah
Bananas is taking over the West Jordan Dunkin’ Donuts restaurant at 1410 W. 9000 South. The “Greatest Show in Sports” will continue to run on Dunkin’s favorite coffee and donuts and has a partnership with Savannah Bananas. As part of the team's “Banana World Tour,” it was a fun night when Savannah Bananas played in Salt Lake City’s Smith’s Ballpark on Aug. 30 and 31.
The Dunkin’ restaurant hosted Savannah Bananas on Aug. 30 and 31 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. It was a fun surprise for guests casting a show that included Savannah Bananas fun characters such as the Dancing Umpire, Vincent Chapman and Princess Potassia, the Queen of Bananaland. Dunkin’s mascot, Cuppy made special appearances as well. They were dressed up and it made the morning very fun for the guests. The cast members went behind the counter to serve the guests. The guests were treated to giveaways from the Dunkin’ prize wheel and more. The first 100 guests were given free coffee for a year. Fans also received free Bananas and Dunkin’-branded merchandise and interviews with Bananas players and local Dunkin’ representatives. The game at Smith’s Ballpark was a fun event for the guests because they gave the Bananas fan-favorite donut hole treats. The opposite team was designated “donut batter” when they went down swinging.
Dunkin’ Donuts is the largest coffee and donuts brand in the United States. Dunkin’ Donuts was founded in 1950. There are more than 13,200 restaurants in 40 global markets. Dunkin’ is part of the Inspire Brands family of restaurants.
Savannah Bananas is a professional baseball team located in Savannah, Georgia. They play their home games at historic Grayson Stadium, and they take their Banana Ball World Tour on the road. The team has been featured
in Wall Street Journal, CNN, ESPN and Sports Illustrated. They are very popular with their social media, such as Tik Tok where they have over 8 million followers. The Bananas have played dressed up in kilts all over the world, they use a dancing first base coach, players catch fly balls while backflipping, they also wear stilts while playing. The Bananas play their own version of baseball called Banana Ball. It is a fast-paced, action packed style of baseball with rules that include no bunting and a two-hour time limit. Fans catch foul balls for outs. The batters steal first base. At the end of the game if it is tied, they play a one-on-one tiebreaker showdown.
The Bananas bring families together by celebrating foster care. They educate the community and inspire others to get involved. CBS News says, “There’s no crying in baseball, but there are a lot of laughs when the Savannah Bananas bring their circus antics to the ballpark.”
What makes them different is because they have their own way to play baseball, by taking chances and toe the line. They challenge the way things are “supposed” to be. Savannah Bananas enjoys entertaining the crowd and helping with foster care in the community.
Savannah Bananas went through hard times. It was Feb. 25, 2016 when the team was named Savannah Bananas. This change got a lot of attention locally and nationally. They were being covered by NBC, Sports Illustrated and CBS. They got featured as SportsCenter’s Logo of the Year. Their name was not liked by most people in Savannah. They got mixed reviews, but they got recognition and people knew who they were. Since their first season they have sold out every single game, over 200 and still counting. l
The cup, princess, the guy and Dunkin’ inflatable arch behind them. (Photo courtesy Vanessa Medina)
Best Seat in the House creates activities for disadvantaged youth
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Growing up in Pennsylvania, Ivan Gonzalez was raised in poverty and didn’t have a lot of opportunities other kids enjoyed. He thought only wealthy people could afford to attend Broadway shows or theater performances. When he moved to Utah in his 20s, he fell in love with the state’s theater scene that he found incredibly fun and accessible.
He started working at the Ronald McDonald House in Salt Lake more than seven years ago. Gonzalez’s 30th birthday was coming up and he decided to throw a party for himself, inviting all the kids at the center.
“I wanted to do a carnival and get kids out of their beds,” he said. “Primary Children’s [Hospital] and other hospitals are great, but most kids that are going through treatment, it’s like six months, nine months or a year. Video games and movies get old pretty quick.”
So he and his friends threw a party with princess and superheroes, games and a fire dancer. He even handed out presents to the kids. “It’s still the best birthday ever,” Gonzalez said.
He had so much fun planning the birthday party that he began holding other events, providing opportunities for kids to enjoy, even when they’re going through a rough
“Provide life-changing experiences for children during difficult times.”
Best Seat in the House focuses its attention on kids with medical conditions, refugees, children in the foster care system, kids in low-income or disadvantaged families and those with special needs. Gonzalez said it’s important for children to have fun, no matter their circumstances, and his program provides several free events each month to those who might not otherwise be able to attend.
Headquartered in Sandy (1570 E. 8600 South), Best Seat in the House partners with several community organizations including the Granite Education Foundation, Sorenson Legacy Foundation, and Nomi Health and the RSL Foundation that provides free tickets to hockey and soccer games.
“We want these kids to experience things they normally couldn’t because of their money situation or whatever their situation is,” Gonzalez said.
fall in love with the kids and the activities which range from carnivals, theater productions, sporting events, outings and parties.
“We need volunteers to run the games and hand out prizes, so we’re really trying to get more volunteers to join us,” he said. “I’ve also been trying to get more [donated] event tickets, because that’s another thing that a lot of families are asking for.”
In 2023, Gonzalez was presented with the Outstanding Volunteer Award from Utah Philanthropy Day. He’s still in disbelief that his organization has grown so quickly and he’s grateful for the help he’s received.
He loves to explain the origin for the nonprofit’s name, Best Seat in the House. It was during a party when he watched a 4-yearold boy, who was undergoing a serious medical treatment, play the Whac-A-Mole game. The boy’s mom told Gonzalez that it was the first day in a month she’d seen her son smile.
time. In 2018, he created the nonprofit Best Seat in the House where his mission is to
The program grew fast, serving 600 kids during the first year to working with 9,000 in 2023. Gonzalez invites volunteers to take part in the events. Unlike other nonprofits, Best Seat in the House allows children to volunteer, although anyone under 12 must be supervised by an adult.
He said volunteers come to serve and
“She was getting emotional, kind of crying, but happy seeing her son,” he said. “And my friend had a blast helping him with the game. And I was just like, ‘Man, this is the best seat in the house.’ It was the best view.”
For more information about volunteering or donations, visit Bestseatslc.org. l
Ivan Gonzalez, founder of Best Seat in the House, attends an RSL soccer game with one of the youth in his program that provides parties and activities for sick or disadvantaged children. (Photo courtesy of Ivan Gonzalez)
New faces and key races to watch in Salt Lake County 2024 election
As the 2024 election season heats up, Salt Lake County finds itself on the brink of significant political change. With the retirement of long-serving officials like Jim Bradley, David Alvord, Ann Granato, Wayne Cushing and Reid Demman, the upcoming races will usher in a new era of leadership. In the spotlight is the high-stakes mayoral race, where incumbent Democrat Jenny Wilson faces a challenge from Republican Erin Rider. Alongside this, several key County Council districts and other county offices will see competitive battles as newcomers vie to shape the future of the county. Here's an overview of the pivotal races and the candidates aiming to steer Salt Lake County forward.
County Mayor Race
Jenny Wilson, the current mayor of Salt Lake County, is running for re-election. Wilson has been in office since 2019 and previously made history as the first woman elected to the County Council. According to her campaign page, she is a fifth-generation Utahn with experience in both the private sector and nonprofit organizations. Before becoming mayor, Wilson served on the council for 10 years.
Her opponent, Erin Rider, a Republican, comes from a background in law and business. Raised in Millcreek, Rider graduated from Brigham Young University with a business degree and later earned her JD/MBA from Georgetown University. She worked as a law clerk on the Senate Finance Committee under Sen. Orrin Hatch in Washington, D.C., and has been active in various community organizations, including Utah Women Run and the J. Reuben Clark Law Society.
County Council District Races
District 2 includes the towns of West Valley City, Kearns, West Jordan, South Jordan and Herriman. Both candidates in this race are new, as they seek to replace the retiring incumbent David Alvord.
Katie Olson, the Democratic candidate, indicates on her campaign webpage she holds a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and a master’s degree in public administration. She currently works as an internal consultant for the city of South Jordan, where she collaborates with various city departments to evaluate their effectiveness.
Carlos Moreno, the Republican candidate, is a recent U.S. citizen and political asylee from Venezuela. He achieved U.S. citizenship in 2022 and works as a community outreach representative for a national energy management consulting company. Moreno also runs a small business with his wife in West Jordan.
District 4 encompasses Salt Lake City, Millcreek, Holladay, Murray and Cottonwood Heights. Current incumbent Ann Granto retires after this term.
This race features Democrat Ross Romero, a former Utah State Senator and House
By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com
Member. Romero graduated from the University of Utah and earned a JD from the University of Michigan Law School. His career includes serving on the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars and being elected as a Democratic National Committee Committeeman in 2020. Romero has held numerous board positions, including with the National Association of Latino Elected & Appointed Officials and the Utah Hospital Association, and has been involved in initiatives promoting diversity, equity and inclusion.
Running against Romero is former Third Circuit Court Judge Roger Livingston, a Republican. Livingston previously served as a Deputy Salt Lake County Attorney and was a candidate for the Republican attorney general nomination in the 1980s. He also served in the Utah House of Representatives in the late 1970s.
Nolan Kruse is also running in District 4 under the Utah Forward Party. Kruse is a small business owner and the Co-Founder and CEO of Lunar Services, a company that provides building service solutions. He holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Utah.
District 6 includes the areas of Sandy, Midvale, Draper and Cottonwood Heights. Incumbent Republican Dea Theodore is seeking re-election. Theodore, who has represented District 6 since 2020, has a background in biology and experience in education administration and civic engagement. As noted on her website, she has been active on several boards, including the Unified Fire Authority (UFA) and SYLVESA, and has worked on legislative initiatives during her time in office; she is a Sandy resident.
Conder has a degree in mathematics with a minor in physics from the University of Utah. Conder has been the Chief Deputy Treasurer under Wayne Cushing.
For County Recorder, incumbent Democrat Rashelle Hobbs is seeking re-election. Hobbs has been involved in county operations for over a decade, starting her career in the Salt Lake County Clerk’s office. Hobbs has a bachelor's degree at the University of Utah and a master's degree in professional communication from Westminster College.
Challenging Theodore is Zach Robinson, the Democratic candidate who currently serves on the Sandy City Council. Robinson has a decade of experience as a firefighter and paramedic, and he works as an Operations Manager for virtual care at University of Utah Health.
At-Large and Other County Positions
In the at-large race for County Council, incumbent Republican Rachelle Morris and Democrat Natalie Pinkney are competing to replace longtime councilman Jim Bradley.
Natalie Pinkney currently serves on the South Salt Lake City Council and has an educational background in psychology and educational leadership from Marquette University and the University of Utah. Pinkney is also a small business owner and helped establish a Financial Empowerment Center in South Salt Lake.
Rachelle Morris, is a graduate of Brigham Young University with a degree in Information Systems. She has a career in private wealth management, having worked at both Goldman Sachs and J.P. Morgan. Morris is also a co-founder and partner at a Utah venture fund.
Treasurer, Recorder, Assessor and Surveyor Races
For the position of County Treasurer, the current officeholder, Wayne Cushing, is not seeking re-election.
Democrat Sheila Srivastava, seeks to replace Cushing. As indicated on her website, Srivastava has over 30 years of experience as a CPA.
The Republican candidate aiming to replace him is Phil Conder, who has been working in the Salt Lake County Treasurer’s office.
Challenging Hobbs is Republican Richard Snelgrove, who was defeated in 2022 for re-election to the Salt Lake County Council. Snelgrove has also served as district director for U.S. Congressman Merrill Cook and has been involved in international election observation for the U.S. State Department. He currently serves on the United Fire Authority board.
The Assessor race features Chris Stavros, the Republican incumbent. Stavros previously held several leadership roles in the Assessor’s office, including Chief Deputy Assessor.
Democrat Joel Frost is a residential appraiser in Salt Lake County since 2006. Frost has served in various capacities, including as President of the Utah Coalition of Appraisers and a board member of the Utah Association of Appraisers.
After 18 years, Reid Demman is stepping away from the position of County Surveyor. Two members from his office will compete to take his spot.
Democrat Kent Setterberg is running with a career spanning over 30 years in the Salt Lake County Surveyor’s office. Setterberg, a licensed Professional Land Surveyor, has a Geomatics degree in Land Surveying from Salt Lake Community College.
His opponent, Republican Bradley Park, is the current Chief Deputy Surveyor and has been in the Surveyor’s office since 2021. Park has 17 years of experience in surveying, including a leadership role at Dominion Energy, where he managed the company’s survey office.
Salt Lake County voters can get registration, candidate and ballot information at www. saltlakecounty.gov/clerk/elections/2024-general-election/. l
The Salt Lake County Council will see new faces as Jim Bradley, David Alvord and Ann Granato chose to retire from their offices. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)
Incumbent Democrat Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson will face a challenge from Republican Erin Rider. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)
Retiring Salt Lake County elected officers Jim Bradley, David Alvord, Ann Granato, Wayne Cushing and Reid Demman. (Photos courtesy of Salt Lake County)
As a sugar fiend, Halloween was a High Holy day in my childhood. Like a squirrel, I used the holiday to gather and hoard candy that would last me through the autumn months until Santa could fill my stocking with tooth-breaking peppermint discs.
On Halloween, my siblings and I would take pillowcases and trick-or-treat through the neighborhood. When the bags were full, we’d bring home our haul so Mom could scrutinize each piece. She’d look for razor blades poking out of apples, unwrapped candy laced with angel dust and Butterfinger bars that she confiscated as Halloween tax.
In sixth grade, I went trick-or-treating with a boy and we dressed as square dancers because Mr. Madson had taught us how to dance and it was an easy costume. The boy was more interested in trying to kiss me than in securing candy. So I told him we had no future and do-si-doed to the next house to see if they were handing out full-size candy bars.
The gathering of candy was just the beginning. After mom crime-proofed my loot, I’d sort it into categories: chocolate bars, Charms Blow-Pops, fruity Wacky Wafers, Pixy Stix, flavorless Smarties, wax bottles filled with questionable liquid, hard-as-rock orange taffy, Bazooka bubble gum and boring Tootsie Rolls. Then, I’d count each piece so I’d know if one of my bratty siblings took anything.
Once my bag-o-cavities was categorized and counted, I’d hide it under my pillow and sleep on it like Smaug protecting his treasure from the grubby hands of mortals. I sometimes woke up with a lollipop stuck to my face.
The real benefit of Halloween candy was having access to sweet treats at school. Sneaking candy to school was the tricky part. On Nov. 1, teachers knew we’d all have pockets full of candy and we wouldn’t be able to pay attention un-
Give Me Some Sugar
Peri Kinder Life and Laughter
til after Thanksgiving. But they attempted to confiscate any sugary substance, so I had to be strategic.
I’d pretend to look for something in my desk and shove a handful of Milk Duds in my mouth. Invariably, the teacher would call on me as soon as I had the candy stuffed in my cheeks like a chipmunk. Do you know how hard it is to talk with a mouthful of Milk Duds?
After school, I’d dash home to my pile of candy to recategorize and recount, and to punish anyone within screeching distance if one piece of Laffy Taffy was missing. Yes, I was a bit obsessive. I understand that now.
Halloween candy was also perfect for smuggling into Sunday school. If I could get it past my mom, I could snack all through the long Sunday services. At the time, dresses didn’t have pockets (those were hard times) so I had to resort to creative options.
My socks became repositories for candy contraband. I was too young to realize mothers notice when their child’s legs are suddenly shaped like Baby Ruth bars. Plus, the plastic candy wrappers strapped around my ankles made a crinkling and crackling noise as subtle as a bull in a china shop.
A week after Halloween, my candy stash had dwindled
significantly. I needed to cut back if it was going to last until Christmas but the Bottle Caps, the Sugar Babies, the Bit-oHoney and the Boston Baked Beans called to me like a siren on a rock.
Whether I battled the world’s loudest candy wrappers or faced the principal for participating in black market candy sales, Halloween remained my favorite holiday. I still squirrel away my favorite candies and I warn everyone to touch my cache at their peril.
