September 2026 | Vol. 12 Iss. 9
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By Kristina Walker | k.walker@mycityjournals.com Suzie Williams discusses her “Why Not?” perspective surrounding teaching and academic goals she plans to bring to Columbia Elementary.
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uzie Williams has said “Why not?” more than a few times in her career. She said it after a friend told her to become a substitute teacher. She said it when a principal asked her to go back to school and become a teacher. She said it again when asked to become an administrator. Now, Williams is making this “Why not?” statement her motto as she starts her first year as principal at Columbia Elementary. “I’m giving all the teachers a storybook called ‘Why Not,’ by Kobe Yamada,” said Williams. “It’s a beautiful book about ‘why not try something new?’ ‘Why not believe in yourself?’ ‘Why not make the most of your life?’ ‘Even if the odds are a million to one, why not be the one?’” Williams never intended to be a teacher. After getting a business degree from Utah State University, she worked from home as a medical transcriptionist. However, after a while she got tired of being in the house all day. “A friend of mine said, ‘Well, you have a degree, you could substitute teach.’ So I thought, ‘Oh, that’d be good to get out a little bit.’ So I started substitute teaching,” said Williams. After working as a substitute at Westland Elementary for a year, the district office called Williams asking her to be a long-term substitute for Terra Linda Elementary as they didn’t have a 6th grade
teacher yet. “I had been there only a few weeks, and the principal came and said, ‘I want you to stay,’” said Williams. The principal told her about a program that allows people to get certified through the state if they already have their bachelor’s degree. “First, I told her no, and then I got thinking about it. Because my kids were all in high school, and I knew we’d have some pretty big expenses coming up with college and different things. So I decided to take the job,” said Williams. Williams began teaching at Terra Linda in 2007. She taught for eight years while going to night school for six and a half of them. While becoming certified, she decided she may as well complete a master’s degree. Williams took a year and a half break after, only to go back to school to get her administrative certification. Now, after 10 years of working in administration, Williams is eager to bring her experiences to Columbia. “When you visit with teachers, parents and students, they just want to be heard, and I’m a good listener. I like to listen and listen some more and then say, “Well, here’s what we can do, or … let’s think outside the box. What could we do here?” said Williams. “That’s problem solving. It comes down to people and those relationships.” Williams is determined to help kids and teachers find a community and become someone they never knew they could be. Which is exactly what she did with a teacher she previously worked with. “Suzie took a chance on me as an older
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Suzie Williams wins 2026 Outstanding Principal Award at Aspen Elementary. (Kraig Williams/ Jordan School District)
Kindergarten teacher. She saw something in me that I never saw in myself; she believed in me and helped shape my first two years as a new teacher into some of the best experiences I’ve had,” said the previous coworker. As she starts her first year at Columbia, Williams hopes to gain parents’ trust. Making sure that safety protocols are in place is her number one goal. Williams also wants to protect learning. While she acknowledges AI to be a good tool, she believes it should be used properly. The same goes for Chromebook use. “If a student is on a Chromebook, it’s
because it’s enriching the lesson that they were just taught; I really want it to be intentional, not a babysitter.” Columbia Elementary’s 2026-27 school year will be filled with academic and community goals. Williams will establish family engagement nights for the school and aid kids in getting the growth they deserve. “It’s fun to go outside and just be there at recess and hear the kids talk to each other and visit with me, and I do enjoy engaging with families. Yeah, there’s just so much joy and so much good.” For her, helping kids achieve beyond expectations is truly a “Why Not?” l
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LOVE YOUR WATERSHED Litter, chemicals, and organic material like leaves and pet waste, on our streets, sidewalks, and parking areas, wash into storm drains and then into lakes, streams, and the Jordan River each time it rains and snows, polluting these waterways. Organize a group clean up of the litter and leaves around the streets and storm drains in your neighborhood for the 9/11 National Day of Service & Remembrance. Each month, make a habit to clean up the gutter and storm drains in front of your own home or business.
L o veYo u r Wa t e r s h e d . o r g September 2026 | Page 3
COMMON GROUND
Property Rights Confuse Me
Common Ground will be a column of rotating viewpoints that highlight specific feelings across the political spectrum, and it will always end with possible ways to come together. Where do I stand on property rights? Simple: if I own it, then I should have absolute control over it. And If I bought it and it is next to your property, I should also have some control over yours. For those who have followed Common Ground, I have left no doubt I lean fairly strong to the right end of the political spectrum. So when writing an opinion piece representing that end of the spectrum with the topic of property rights, I was certain what I’d say. Then last night as I prepared to write this I got confused. I stopped and prayed: Dear God, am I becoming a Democrat? A quick trip to my gun safe confirmed that I am good. But I am still conflicted. I know where I stand on my property rights, not sure where I stand on your property rights. Well, let me be clear, unless your property is near mine, I actually just don’t care about yours. To not look evil I will pretend that I care and that you should have the same property rights as me. To unconfuse myself, I broke down property rights into three categories: the ability to own property, the ability to control property, and property taxes. I see each category, but am conflicted where these fall on the typical right-left spectrum. Is everyone a Republican when it comes to property rights? Or maybe
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John J Walker Common Ground
everyone is a Democrat? I don’t know but I can’t imagine a world where we agree on something. I agree with my dear friends from the left (yes I have a couple) that everyone should have the opportunity to buy and own their home. Home ownership is an important part of the American economy and society. I think we can all agree people should be able to own property (our own homes) and enjoy all the benefits from it, and we can all recognize that property rights are protected by the Constitution. So once you own it, what control do you have? Enter Jekyll or Hyde, I am not sure. On one hand, I want full control of my property. On the other hand, I want control of my neighbor’s property. Not full control but enough control to protect my property, property value and property rights. If I want to build a second story to my house and add a man cave garage in the backyard, hand me a hammer and shut your mouth; it’s my property. But if my neighbor wants to build an apartment on his lot, whoa whoa whoa. If my neighbor wants to
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have 14 people live in his 3-bedroom house and each of them park a car on the front lawn, no way, not in my backyard and not in your front yard. Enter local zoning. WWII veterans should be the most respected people in America. Just behind them should be planning and zoning staff and volunteers. For now, my stance is that I should control my property and I should be able to do whatever I want to do with it. And I should also control your property so that it does not impact me and my property. Until you come up with a better plan, this is my plan. My first consideration concerning property taxes is back to property ownership. I question – do we really own property if we are required to pay forever to retain that ownership? When I go to the grocery store and buy a peach, I don’t have to pay for that peach the rest of my life. But when I buy a home, all of a sudden I have to pay property taxes for the rest of my life. Technically, I “own” my home in Bountiful, but I often say I “lease” it from Davis School District and Davis County. Our governor and state legislators in recent years have stated they want homes more affordable, but they have sat mostly idle while school districts, counties, and special districts have increased property taxes – making homes even more unaffordable.
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Our Republican-led legislature and governor have provided taxpayer money to help subsidize the purchase of homes. I am sure this feels good for them. I guess on some baseline it should feel good; they are helping people live the American dream. But they are taking money from all taxpayers to give to a select few. It is clear to me that we must allow the housing market to operate in a fair and open market. As per taxes – property taxes make sense; there is a need for the government to provide amenities (roads, sidewalks, water, utilities, etc.) to homeowners that are associated with homeownership. These are expenses that I require and the value of my property is dependent on. A home that doesn’t have water or access is ultimately worthless. But remind me why we cover schools with property taxes. Don’t get me wrong, we should fund schools so our children get the best education possible. In Utah, that should come from income tax. Our legislation has lowered income tax every year but they did not change the spending with school districts so where does that “savings” come from? It comes from property taxes – your income tax goes down and your property taxes go up. A game of political whack-a-mole: slash-a-tax.
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September 2026 | Page 5
New aviation device geared for emergency providers stops in West Jordan A personal aviation device called Pulse could make the difference between life and death for anyone injured in remote areas. By Tom Haraldsen t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com
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hen the victim of an accident begins to suffer loss of oxygen to their brain, time is critical to their survival. If oxygen can be restored within 4 to 6 minutes, a full recovery is possible. After 7 to 10 minutes, some brain damage is likely, but after 11 to 15 minutes, a coma is inevitable and brain damage certain. For the 46 million Americans who live in rural areas, the average response time for emergency personnel is over 14 minutes. Few are able to live after that delay. That was one motivation for Carl Dietrich, founder of Jump Aero, which has produced a personal aviation device that could make the difference between life and death for anyone injured in an area not easily accessible by emergency providers. He brought his all-electric device to the South Valley Airport in West Jordan while towing it back to its home, in Petaluma, California. The former MIT student has
A personal aviation device called Pulse, geared to help emergency providers, was on display at South Valley Airport in West Jordan in late July. (Tom Haraldsen/City Journals)
developed Pulse, Jump Aero’s high speed vertical takeoff and landing aircraft designed specifically for emergency response. The 3,100-pound aircraft can carry one person, like an EMT or other medical professional, to the site of an accident within a 30 mile radius in just minutes. “The landing spot can be programmed
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into Pulse and the pilot can precisely reach that spot much quicker than even a medical helicopter,” Dietrich said. “Based on wind data, we have computer algorithms that tell the pilot where to land and the easiest way to get there. This can all be accomplished in the blink of an eye and the avionics are very robust, but also simple. That gets an
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Page 6 | September 2026
emergency service provider to the scene of the accident and then he or she can administer aid.” Called eVTOL technology for the vertical takeoffs and landings, the Pulse prototype has already garnered much interest from communities, police and fire departments, and of course hospitals and medical clinics. During the demo at the South Valley Airport, a helicopter began warming up, taking several minutes before it was ready for liftoff. “We could have been in the air and halfway to the emergency at the top of a mountain before the chopper can even leave the airport,” Dietrich said. “This is obviously valuable time when someone has suffered an injury that is limiting oxygen to their brain.” The Pulse does have some limitations. Extreme wind conditions over 40 mph or fog can have an effect, but it’s still less sensitive to gusts of wind than fixed wing aircrafts. Windows allow the pilot to navigate their descent and landing as well. It allows the medical professional to have “boots on the ground faster than conventional methods,” Dietrich said. The next steps involve future development and money. Entities that want to add Pulse to their emergency response arsenal will have to prepare for a hefty price tag of about $1.8 to $2 million, which is still cheaper than an entry-level medical helicopter (an average of $2.4 million) or a top-tier medical chopper (about $5 million). “We could be flying as soon as next year,” Dietrich said. “The goal right now is getting the concept out there to make people aware of the potential use of this new technology. There’s a lot of publicity around air taxis or personal use aircraft, and we think this is a fantastic use of this technology.” The state of Utah has a memorandum of understanding with Jump Aero, as do several other entities. Dietrich said he’s also received interest from some private investors, as well as the U.S. Air Force. “Anything that can bring a rapid response is something they are interested in,” he said.l
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West Jordan City Journal
Hawthorn Academy accelerates robot invasion
Students and staff are gearing up for the next phase of the robotics program. By Jet Burnham j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
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xperimental algorithmist Carl Landskron has been working with robots since the second grade and teaching robotics since age 13. For the past 15 years, he has mentored students and coached teams including one that won a robotics world championship, and now local charter school students are benefitting from his experience. “I was hired last year by Hawthorne Academy to build the best robotics program in all of Utah and so that’s what we’re working on creating right now,” Landskron said. His first step was making robotics cool. “We want to find a way to celebrate science and engineering much like society celebrates rock stars or sports athletes,” Landskron said. “We make it so students see these really cool challenges as something to aspire to and look up to the scientists and the engineers and the computer scientists as heroes.” Last year, his focus was on generating interest in robotics. Landskron taught a robotics class and let students work on their machines after school. He designed two school-wide robotics competitions that were a big hit with students. They designed, built and coded robots to perform certain tasks in an arena while the rest of the school cheered them on. Tyler Coleman, who competed in the finals last year as an eighth grader, said he had no experience when he first got involved. “I had never coded anything before,” he said. “Now I can make a code for one of these robots within 15 minutes.” However, there is always a challenge to overcome, Tyler said, like something not working right or team members not pulling their weight. Ninth grader Elena Monroe said they learn a lot from working together. “Carl is a very good teacher, and he teaches a lot of good teamwork skills,” she said. Landskron’s goal for the robotics program this school year is growth, and he’s relying on the enthusiasm of the students to make it happen. “I’m only one person. I can only do so much,” Landskron said. “My number one mission cannot be improving the robotics or STEM within the school. My number one mission has to be building students who are passionate about building it themselves.” Students are making presentations, meeting with school board members and brainstorming ideas to improve the program, especially finding a way to purchase more machine parts so they don’t have to share the more expensive components. Due to the program’s popularity, Hawthorn Academy, a STEM-focused school, added an additional robotics class this year. “We had students begging to stay in
WestJordanJournal .com
Student-built robots compete in an arena tournament at Hawthorn Academy. (Jet Burnham/City Journals)
class last year, and it only makes sense to expand on the things students are passionate about,” Landskron said. Robotics are integrated into nearly all seven STEM classes Hawthorn Academy offers so students can build skills year after year. “The exploring tech class might focus more on mechanism design, and the Python class might focus on the autonomous programming of the robot,” Landskorn said. “They are different subjects but they still come back to that same thing, and students
use the stuff they learned in the class to take their robot to the next level.” The robotics program is going to the next level, as well. This year, Hawthorn registered a team with FIRST Robotics, an organization that hosts local and regional challenges in which students work through real-world engineering, computer science and openended creative problem-solving challenges. “This year is going to be bigger than ever before,” Landskron said. “The students are incredibly passionate, and they are truly
hungry to make a difference not only in their team but also in their community. Parents, professional mentors and school administration are all on board with making the best robotics program in all of Utah, and I truly believe we will be there sooner than expected.” However, this level of growth requires more time and money. “We are definitely looking for sponsorships for this coming rookie year,” Landskron said. “If you are passionate about supporting youth robotics and engineering, please consider becoming a sponsor.” l
September 2026 | Page 7
Prostate/ Breast Cancer
Fall Into Action: Tackle Cancer Screenings This Season
FALL IS MORE THAN football and pump-
kin spice – it’s time for men and women to prioritize their health. As September spotlights Prostate Cancer Awareness and October approaches with Breast Cancer Awareness, our local medical experts are issuing a direct call to our community. This is your cue: men, actively engage with your prostate health; women, prioritize your breast health. Early detection is the most powerful tool you have to protect your life and your loved ones. The statistics are sobering. For men, prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer, and tragically, it stands as the second leading cause of cancer death, surpassed only by lung cancer. Similarly, for women, breast cancer is a significant threat, also ranking as the second leading cause of cancer death, second only to lung cancer. These aren’t just abstract figures; they represent real individuals whose lives can be profoundly impacted by timely action. “Too often, men delay necessary screenings,” explains Dr. Pursifull, a urologist at Holy Cross Hospital – Mountain Point in Lehi. “But waiting for symptoms to appear
significantly reduces treatment options. Regular PSA blood tests and digital rectal exams are straightforward procedures that detect cancer early. Talk to your primary care physician about your risk factors, especially if you have a family history or are of African American descent. CommonSpirit hospitals offer comprehensive prostate cancer screenings and advanced treatment options.” For women, prioritizing breast health is equally critical. “Early detection is truly a game-changer when it comes to breast cancer,” states Dr. Raylene Natwick, a breast surgeon practicing at a Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley. “When breast cancer is identified early, the chances of successful treatment and a full recovery are remarkably higher. This is precisely why regular mammograms are so vital. They can detect subtle changes years before they would ever be palpable.” Dr. Natwick advises women to discuss screening guidelines starting around age 40, or earlier if risk factors warrant it. Monthly self-examinations and annual clinical breast exams are also crucial. “CommonSpirit hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art mam-
mography technology and a dedicated team ready to support women.” “As primary care providers, we are frequently the entry portal to the health care system.” said Dr. Grant Hawkins, an internal medicine physician with CommonSpirit in West Jordan. We encourage our patients to have their yearly wellness checkups. At that time we have the opportunity to review medical issues, make medication adjustments, discuss new concerns and arrange for screening tests that are so important in preventing serious problems in the future.” This Fall, make the decision to prioritize your health. Both prostate and breast cancer often have excellent prognoses when caught early. CommonSpirit hospitals are committed to providing accessible screenings, expert diagnostics, and leading-edge treatments. Schedule your screenings and engage in crucial conversations with your doctor. Your life, your future, and your well-being depend on it. For more information or to find a provider visit mountain.commonspirit.org SPONSORED CONTENT
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When minutes count, count on our emergency care. Get to know us before you need us. When you need emergency care fast, the closest emergency room is a smart thing to know. You never know the level of care you’ll need when an emergency happens and choosing the right ER can make all the difference. And a hospital ER comes with the confidence of additional services right on-site. Congratulations to CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley for receiving the Leapfrog Top Hospital Award for 2025. Leapfrog Top Hospital Awards are determined based on a rigorous assessment of various quality and safety measures. Find emergency care close to you at mountain.commonspirit.org. CommonSpirit Health Mountain Region does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, religion, creed, ancestry, sexual orientation, and marital status in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment. For further information about this policy contact CommonSpirit Health Mountain Region Office of the General Counsel at 1-303-643-1000 (TTY: 711). Copyright © CommonSpirit Health Mountain Region, 2026. ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-303-643-1000 (TTY: 711). CHÚ Ý: Nếu bạn nói Tiếng Việt, có các dịch vụ hỗ trợ ngôn ngữ miễn phí dành cho bạn. Gọi số 1-303-643-1000 (TTY: 711).
Page 8 | September 2026
West Jordan City Journal
Cycle of Life Plein Air Festival to promote the lifecycle in nature
Art, conservation, water and the environment overlaps in this festival on Sept. 26 at the Conservation Garden Park. By Linda Steele l.steele@mycityjournals.com
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ultural Arts Society of West Jordan has partnered with Conservation Garden Park for what will be the first year of the Cycle of Life Plein Air Festival. Dillon Workman is the executive director and had the idea to start the festival. “One of the things I loved about the idea for this festival was the opportunity to bring together communities that don’t always overlap: people who care about art, conservation, water and the natural environment. There is so much beauty in the processes happening around us, from the water cycle and pollination to the changing landscape and plant life. We wanted to encourage artists to slow down, observe those processes and interpret them through their own work,” Workman said. Organizers wanted this to be light, fun, creative, family oriented, organic and very welcoming to all. There are so many paths, nooks and crannies where people can set up locations to enjoy a setting within the garden. “It would be really fun for people to make art onsite,” Maya Collingwood said, chair of the West Jordan Visual Arts Society. The day of the festival they want a lot of spectators to show up and watch the artists making their art projects and showing their talents. There will be a children’s section where there will be easels and art supplies. When school starts they
WestJordanJournal .com
Different plants at the Conservation Garden Park. (Photo courtesy Dillon Workman)
will ask for art student volunteers to help run the children’s section so they can guide the children using their creativity and using a lot of mediums. Every Plein Air artist will be given a jar to collect coins. When spectators come they will put tokens in the jars of the artists they like so they can get a popular vote. There will be partners there, with booths set up so they can do interactive activities with festival attendees and can be involved and make
their own creative project. There will be libraries, The Great Salt Lake, Jordan River Commission that will host tables to do interactive activities. There will be fun judging on how pieces portray the cycle of life theme with water awareness and local habitat. Some of the categories will be best in show, water wonder, cycle of life award, pollinators choice, best little world. One of the judges will be the Mayor of West Jordan, Dirk Burton. The big reason for this festival is to increase awareness of conservation efforts and how they can participate. Conservation Garden Park’s purpose is to promote well-being through wise stewardship of water resources. They are tapping into the life cycle of nature and artists of all abilities to depict however they want. They are encouraging children and amateurs to participate. With school starting they want to encourage middle school and high school kids to attend the festival. They want to get a wide variety of mediums of different art forms. “We are trying to make this a fun and creative atmosphere, and encourage people to think outside the box, what mediums they use, and how they portray the cycle of life from a macro to a micro level. We are excited to see what people come up with,” Collingwood said. The event will be free. There is a big entryway at the Conservation Garden where artists can display their art. No artists can sell their work at the festival, but they will be able to give out cards. This event is all about creation and not an art vendor event. You can find out more information about the Cycle of Life Plein Air Festival @CulturalArtsSocietyofWestJordan https://www.facebok.com/CulturalArtsSocietyofWestJordan/ @culturalartssocietyofwj http://instagram.comculturalartssocietyofwj l
September 2026 | Page 9
Meet Toni Lasater, new principal at Heartland Elementary Principal Toni Lasater discusses her goals for her first year at Heartland Elementary. By Kristina Walker k.walker@mycityjournals.com
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Toni Lasater welcomed students to school on Aug. 19 as Heartland Elementary’s new principal. (Photo courtesy Toni Lasater)
oni Lasater is combining the “teacher perspective” and the “student perspective” as she begins Heartland Elementary’s 2026-27 school year. “My old job used to be just, ‘How can I support the kids in my class to help them get where they need to be?’” said Lasater. “And my new job is how do I support teachers and give them the training that they need, but also help keep them excited, happy and supported.” Beginning in 2001, Lasater’s career in education has brought her to many places. Now, as she starts her third year in administration, she brings her knowledge of both her teacher perspective and student perspective to Heartland Elementary. Lasater has always had a love for education. She felt like school gave her a community with friends and teachers who supported her. As she got older, it was the love of kids and the opportunity to help them have a better life
that pushed her towards a career in education. “My job is never ever boring … I love to see when a kid takes off with reading. It’s kinda my thing to help kids meet reading levels; there is nothing like that.” As principal, Lasater hopes to build on the school’s existing efforts in increasing foundational literacy skills and help kids become more excited about reading. Making learning enjoyable is a big goal of hers, and she plans on emphasizing the value of education to her students during her time at Heartland. “I want to keep moving forward with better academic achievements without losing any of the fun,” said Lasater. On the topic of classroom AI use, Lasater was cautiously optimistic. While it will be a big part of the students’ future, she expressed needing to be careful it doesn’t create a crutch. Instead, it should be used as a limited tool for small things like drafting ideas. Lasater emphasizes the importance of not losing personal connection and voice when it comes to writing, including teachers using AI for emails. “Kids need to be proficient writers themselves before they can really know if what AI wrote is good writing … it’s just kind of that balance of using AI and being cautious it
doesn’t take away learning from the students.” When it comes to supporting the staff at Heartland, Lasater wants to create a place where they are not just seen as teachers but as people. Being a teacher before, she values the perspective and knowledge they have. During her time as principal, she wants to learn and respect the school’s culture while also enhancing the community. After first moving to Heartland, Lasater discovered that the faculty lounge wasn’t being used. In order to create a space for the teaching community to gather together, she will begin working to refresh the lounge and make it more suitable for lunch. “I know that they’re a good family here; I can already feel that. I just think it’s a really nice thing to have a common place where people come and eat together and talk together.” For the school year, Lasater mentioned big goals for student improvement. She will work to make sure that every student makes one year of growth. “Heartland has been on a really good game; they have been doing some great things … I feel privileged to be in this role,” said Lasater. Lasater excitedly began the school year on Aug. 19. l
Full house sees residents urge former West Jordan Elementary site avoid higher density The nine-acre area in question is under consideration for redevelopment with councilmembers also supporting larger size lots. By Travis Barton travis.b@thecityjournals.com
W
hile West Jordan Elementary closed two years ago, the land’s future is still in question. This summer saw a full house during a West Jordan City Council meeting as residents turned out in droves to voice their opposition to a proposal that could see 48 units built on the 9.3-acre area. The proposed rezone would allow six dwelling units per acre. The proposal—presented by Ivory Homes who purchased the land from Jordan School District as part of a trade which will allow the district to build a future high school within Ivory Homes’ Dry Creek Highland area on the west side—faced pushback from the West Jordan City Council too. Ross Dinsdale, Ivory Homes project manager who presented to the council, said they plan to develop the area as a single-family subdivision with a mix of cottage-style and larger lots. He said building homes on smaller lots make it more achievable for younger families. The area right now has what Dinsdale called a “very established and experienced neighborhood.” “When we can combine younger families with a group like this that benefits both groups,” he told the council. The surrounding area is residential lots ranging from 9,000 to 12,000 square feet, while the proposed zone change would see the former school site reclassified to 4,000 square feet lots. Dinsdale said the area already has physical infrastructure
Page 10 | September 2026
The concept plan that would feature 48 lots on the former school site. (Ivory Homes)
in place while traffic and water use would be less than what the school had before. He added they would be happy to commit to low-water landscaping. But councilmembers felt the project would not fit well with the surrounding neighborhood with several voicing discomfort with anything below 8,000 square feet. The property’s current zoning is set for 10,000 square foot lots. Dinsdale did note those 10,000 square foot homes would average closer to $1.2 million, whereas cottage lots would be closer to $650,000. In response to a question from a councilmember, he said Ivory Homes make roughly the same amount of money between 28 lots at 10,000 square feet as the higher amount of units on smaller lots.
Councilmember Kayleen Whitelock said if this density comes in with younger families who have kids, then they could have overpopulated schools. “I just don’t feel that this fits with the neighborhood,” she said. Councilmember Zach Jacob, who said he did not like how the sale of this property transpired, agreed with Whitelock and said more open space would be needed for any higher density requested. While Councilmember Bob Bedore also wanted less units, more community space. Councilmember Chad Lamb said he was against cottage homes on the property and urged developers to listen to the neighbors. The ensuing council meeting saw the council chambers filled with residents in support of keeping the former elementary site at its current zoning. Debbie Coons, a West Jordan resident since 2007, said she chose her neighborhood for its larger sizes, having moved from an area with smaller homes. “We’ve got apartments and townhomes and smaller homes going up all over the county, but they’re not affordable,” she told the council. Larry Elkington lives down the street from the area and said it was “a sad day when they tore down West Jordan Elementary” and was “a little upset” with the school district and the sale they made. He told the council that to “shove as many houses as possible into that area would be a disservice to our neighborhood and community.” Part of the purpose for the discussion was to guide Ivory Homes as they make plans and submit a formal application. Dinsdale told the council he would take the feedback to the applicant. l
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September 2026 | Page 11
Top 10 reasons they became a teacher
Jordan School District new hires share common pathways into the education field. By Jet Burnham j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
J
ordan School District welcomed about 200 new teachers this school year, but had to turn down hundreds more. There were at least 120 applicants for each elementary school teaching position and about 25 per secondary opening. Why have so many people decided to become teachers? JSD’s new hires shared the top reasons for their decision.
They were inspired by their teachers.
Veteran teacher Andrea Parker, who is new to Jordan School District and Golden Fields Elementary School this year, said her career choice was inspired by the teachers she had. “I get all teary when I even talk about it because I had awesome teachers and I wanted to be a teacher,” she said. New West Jordan Middle School teacher Oakley Kopp said he became a teacher “because of the teachers that inspired me to live the dream--impacting individuals at whatever rate we can.”
They are passionate about education.
“I liked school, so I wanted to go back and help other kids like school,” new Herriman High School teacher Teean Drolinger said. Elk Meadows Elementary School teacher Rachel Sorensen has taught at the elementary school and college level. “I believe all students are capable of learning, and so I love to teach and make a difference and help each kid reach their full potential,” the second grade teacher said.
School mascots, bands, cheerleaders and administrators enthusiastically welcome new hires to Jordan School District. (Kraig Williams/Jordan School District)
They love kids.
Teaching woodshop and engineering classes at Oquirrh “I’m a special ed teacher, so the kids are what it is for Hills Middle School fits Andrew Egbert’s personality. “I love me,” Kassidy Sullivan, Daybreak Elementary Special Ed the variety it gives me in my day-to-day,” he said. “Every day teacher, said. “They’re welcoming and they have a big heart is something new and different.” and they just love everybody.”
They have experience to share.
It’s their dream job.
“My son was always in SpEd, and so I just wanted to be “I’ve wanted to be a teacher since I can remember-- able to help kids that need a little extra help,” Fort Herriman They have a knack for teaching. that was my elementary school dream,” Copper Hills High Middle School Special Ed teacher Kesley Barton said. Dakota Clark, new science teacher at South Hills Mid- School teacher Mikell Campbell said. “I just love the idea of Art teacher Phil Jackson took a few years off after more dle School, tried a few other careers before ending up in the just increasing students’ learning.” than a decade of teaching to “pursue his art” and learn tattoo education field. “People just told me that I had a knack for art. Now he’s back, with renewed enthusiasm for teaching art teaching, so I ended up going to secondary education and just They want to help shape the future. classes at Kings Peak High School. “I’m going to be a much immediately fell in love with it, and I have never looked back “We get to teach the next generation,” Kim Nahinu, first better teacher coming back after having pursued some entresince,” he said. grade teacher at Westland Elementary School, said. “This is preneurial stuff for a couple years,” he said. going to be the most powerful generation that comes forward.”
It’s in their blood.
Zachary May, new teacher at Copper Mountain Middle School, always knew he’d follow his mom, aunt and uncle into the teaching profession because he enjoyed tutoring his friends in high school. He even thinks like a teacher. “I just have a brain that just loves to break down things into smaller things, and that’s a very good explanatory skill,” he said.
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After 10 years in the healthcare industry, Samuel Wiscomb is happy to be a science teacher at Oquirrh Hills Middle School. “My wife works in schools, and so it’s nice for me to have time to spend with my family over the summers,” he said.
Westvale Elementary sixth grade teacher Alisha Kocs never wanted to be a teacher. “I sort of happened upon it and just fell in love with it,” she said. While working in a behavior health unit, she was asked to cover some classes. “I loved it,” she said. “I was like, if I love it, and these kids are some of the hardest kids, I’m sure that I’ll love it anywhere.” l
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September 2026 | Page 13
Community leaders urge action to combat hate crimes in Utah The Valley Fair stabbing sparks conversation on Islamophobia. By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com
A
fter a rise in anti-Muslim attacks nationwide and the recent stabbing of Syed Sohail Uddin at Valley Fair Mall, Utah leaders gathered to discuss how to confront hate crimes and protect vulnerable communities. In July, a town hall was held at the Utah Islamic Center (984 W. 9000 South), bringing together religious leaders, law enforcement officers, community members and elected officials to discuss how hate crimes affect Utah and what can be done. “If Islam could be summarized in one word, it would be ‘justice’,” said Imam Shuaib, a spiritual leader in the Utah Muslim community. “We would like to see concrete steps taken to assure the safety of our community and all communities, all minorities.” Edward Ahmed Mitchell, civil rights attorney and the national deputy director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, stated that anti-Muslim rhetoric and violence are increasing because people with platforms and power are deliberately stoking fear. His office received more than 8,500 complaints last year from people in the Muslim community who were targeted, harassed or attacked. He said the number is higher than it’s ever been, even higher than the hate crimes that followed 9/11. “Hate speech very often can easily lead to hate crimes,” Mitchell said. Uddin, who was stabbed more than 15 times while working at the mall in July, faces a long recovery. He joined
Syed Sohail Uddin was stabbed at Valley Fair Mall for being Muslim. He talks with members of a town hall about his experience. (Peri Kinder/City Journals)
the town hall from his home, where he addressed attendees and said he has no hatred in his heart for his attacker. “I sincerely pray that Allah will bless his soul, guide him to the right path, and fill his heart with kindness and compassion. My only wish is that no one else suffers this.” Sister Hibba, a longtime member of the Utah Islamic Center, said everyone in the nation has a role to play when it comes to addressing hate crimes. She called on elected leaders to do more than offer blank statements after tragedy or provide brief appearances during election season. “We need leaders who are willing to come and listen to understand our lived experiences and to include us in conversations about public safety, education and civic life,” she
said. “Addressing Islamophobia cannot be reactive; it must be proactive.” Representatives from the Governor’s Office, the Salt Lake City Mayor’s Office and West Jordan City were on hand, as well as FBI officials and Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill. Gill explained that there are three victims in every hate crime: the person who is targeted and attacked, the community that person belongs to and the overall community in which the crime happens. He said the person who allegedly stabbed Uddin confessed that he wanted his actions to be a catalyst for more violence. Gill urged people to report hate crimes, even those that seem minor. “Call your police and document this. Hate crimes are vehemently underreported. We become tolerant,” Gill said. “One of the best things we can do as elected and community leaders is to join the chorus and say, ‘This is not acceptable.’...We get to exercise that power and we get to build that community to call it out. That is the best gift that we can give to each other.” Attendees were encouraged to intervene when witnessing a hate crime, either by standing up for the victim or by getting law enforcement involved. People were challenged to speak up when they hear friends or family members making derogatory comments about any race or religion. “Muslims belong here,” Hibba said. “We are your neighbors, your colleagues, your classmates, your friends, and your fellow Utahns. We deserve to practice Islam without fear, to raise our families in safety and to know that our leaders are committed not only to responding in tragedy but to preventing tragedy. This should be a moment where we choose action over silence.” l
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City Journals presents:
A publication covering local pets, their
humans and their care around the Salt Lake Valley
Give an old dog a new beginning By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com Puppies are cute but senior dogs have wisdom, manners and lots of love to share. While an older dog might not have the energy of a puppy or long years of fun and adventure left in them, for people willing to look past the slower walks and gray hairs, a senior dog can offer a life-changing experience at both ends of the leash. Guinnevere Shuster works as the Humane Society of Utah’s communication director. She said there are several misconceptions about adopting an older dog that can hold people back from a loving relationship, including the idea that the dog will pass away too soon. “When people are worried about that, I often bring up the fact that the time that you do have is really special, and you’re really making a difference for this animal,” she said. “You’re getting them out of the animal shelter into a home where they’re loved. Getting them out of the shelter and into a home is really rewarding.” Dogs are considered senior when they turn 7 and cats when they turn 10 or 11. Although aging differs between the size and breed of the animals, many pets live several more years. Shuster said one cat was 12 when she was adopted, but lived another five years.
She said most senior pets offer calm companionship and are deeply grateful for another chance to live with a loving family. While some of the animals had an established bond with their previous families, others might have led a rough life, but they usually have an easy time adjusting to a new home. “They’re really resilient, and they’re also very social creatures. So they are looking to make that connection with people,” Shuster said. “They want to be around you. They want to have their person. It might take them a little time to learn the ropes and get adjusted to everyone, but dogs and cats typically bond pretty quickly to who’s caring for them, especially to who’s feeding them.” Adopting a senior dog from the Humane Society comes with several benefits. All adoption fees are waived and they are spayed or neutered and microchipped. They receive all necessary vaccinations and are given medical and dental exams, including blood work and X-rays, if needed. If the animal has medical issues, or needs teeth pulled, those problems are taken care of before they are put up for adoption. Potential adopters receive full transparency when it comes to the animal’s physical condition. “When adopting an older dog, they know what they’re getting,” Shuster said.
BlackJack is a 10-year-old Norwegian elkhound/husky mix. He’s one of the senior dogs available for adoption at the Humane Society of Utah. (Photo courtesy of Humane Society of Utah) “They don’t have to worry about potty training or loose-leash walking or the dog chewing up any shoes. You know what you’re getting with a senior animal and that brings a great peace of mind and a lot less stress.” For those interested in adopting a senior dog or cat, the Humane Society of Utah has information about all its animals,
including photos, at utahhumane.org. “One of the benefits is that when you get them home, you get that reward of giving an animal a home, an animal that’s often overlooked in the shelter environment and maybe not favored by most people,” Shuster said. “It’s really rewarding to know that you’re giving this animal a place to rest for their golden years.” Buy a MEXICAN COKE and get a six-dollar
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September 2026 | Page 15
More than a shelter dog: The second chances waiting behind kennel doors By Holly Curby | hello@hollycurby.com Some arrive as strays, others are surrendered but animal advocates often point to understanding the journey in the first place. Every shelter dog has a story. Some arrive as strays. Others are surrendered because of financial hardship, illness, housing changes or family emergencies. Behind many kennel doors is a pet that was once deeply loved but lost its home through circumstances beyond anyone’s control. For prospective adopters, it’s easy to focus on finding the right pet. But animal advocates often point out that adoption is also about understanding the journey that brought an animal to the shelter in the first place. One local family recently experienced that reality firsthand when a routine visit to the Utah Humane Society turned into an unexpected adoption. Like many families, they weren’t actively looking to bring home a dog. They simply enjoyed visiting shelters so their son could spend time with animals, walk dogs and learn about responsible pet ownership. Adoption wasn’t part of the plan. Then they met a small terrier mix whose story would change everything. After spending time with the dog, they learned that he had only recently arrived at the shelter. His previous owner, an older gentleman, had been forced to move into assisted living and could no longer care for him. The news struck a chord. “It overloaded my empathetic heart,” the mother recalled. “I thought about my dad and his little dog he rescued from a shelter, and how devastating that must be that a man and his dog had to separate.” The dog’s situation highlights a growing challenge faced by animal shelters across the country. Life transitions such as health issues, housing restrictions, financial setbacks and moves to senior living facilities can leave loving pet owners with difficult
choices. In many cases, the animals entering shelters are not neglected or unwanted. They are cherished companions caught in circumstances beyond their owners’ control. That reality often goes unseen by visitors walking through adoption centers. Instead, people may see barking dogs, crowded kennels or animals that appear anxious and withdrawn. What they don’t see are the stories behind those behaviors: the owner who could no longer afford care, the family navigating a crisis, or the senior citizen saying goodbye to a longtime companion. For shelter staff and volunteers, helping animals find new homes means helping people see beyond the kennel. Sometimes, those connections happen in unexpected ways. During a family’s visit, a stranger approached and asked why they hadn’t adopted the dog they had just walked. After a brief conversation, the stranger made an astonishing offer. “I’m going to adopt the dog for you,” she said. The act of generosity stunned everyone involved. “My son started crying with joy, and tears honestly ran down my face,” the mother said. “I was just in utter shock at this woman’s kindness.” What began as an ordinary afternoon soon became a trial foster placement. Days turned into weeks. The family weighed the responsibilities of pet ownership, discussed finances and considered how a dog would fit into their lives. Eventually, they decided to make the adoption permanent. Their experience serves as a reminder that shelter adoption is about more than bringing home a pet. It is often the continuation of a story that began long before an animal arrived at a rescue organization. It is also a reminder that second chances don’t belong only to animals. The dog received a new home. A family discovered a companion they hadn’t expected. And a stranger’s simple act of kindness helped bring them together. For those considering adoption, shelter workers encourage potential owners to ask
Peyton rings the “Gotcha Day” bell at the Humane Society of Utah to celebrate his new dog’s adoption.
After the passing of his wife, Jim found a companion and source of comfort by adopting George from the Humane Society of Utah.
questions about an animal’s background, temperament and needs. Understanding a pet’s history can create a deeper appreciation for the resilience many shelter animals demonstrate every day. Because behind every wagging tail is a story. And sometimes, the dog waiting quietly behind a kennel door isn’t just looking for a home, he’s waiting for the next chapter of his life to begin. Animal lovers can support shelter pets and animal welfare efforts by attending the Humane Society of Utah’s upcoming 2026 Wags to Wishes Gala on Oct. 17 at 6 p.m.
at the Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City. This year’s theme, “Lights, Camera, Compassion,” invites guests to step into the golden age of Hollywood glamour for an evening dedicated to helping animals in need. Visit UtahHumane.org/gala for tickets. For more information about shelter pets, animal welfare and the adoption process, check out additional insights from the former director of the Utah Humane Society on Holly’s Highlights podcast, available wherever podcasts are streamed and at www.HollyCurby.com.
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5 unique animal rescue organizations By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com It’s not just cats and dogs that need rescue and love. When you think of animal rescues, you probably picture shelters filled with cute kittens or adorable dogs. But animal rescue is much more than that. Several organizations in Utah are dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating everything from ducks to turtles and finding homes for these unique pets. Here are a few of these groups that help nearly every type of creature.
Wasatch Exotics Rescue
Founded by Angela Pollack, Marybeth Spencer and Mitchell Christiansen, Wasatch Exotics Rescue provides a foster-based model in which every rescue is placed in an approved foster home. The fosters set up a proper habitat for the animals and give the rescues love and attention until they find their forever home. The group accepts pets such as ball pythons, iguanas, geckos, bearded dragons, turtles and more. To adopt an exotic pet, surrender an animal, become a foster or volunteer, visit wasatchexoticsrescue.org for more information.
Clementine Ranch
Although they are not currently accepting new animals, Clementine Ranch is a sanctuary for livestock. Started by Lindsey Armstrong and Rob Fenn, the ranch is intended to be a place of compassion, embracing a vegan lifestyle. The couple took over an existing animal sanctuary in Herriman that needed a lot of renovation to make it safe for humans and animals. The rescued or retired livestock include cows, sheep, goats, horses, emus and chickens who can live out their lives in peace and comfort. At clementineranch.org, information is available on how to support the organization to keep the animals fed and housed. Follow their adventures on social media @ theclementineranch.
Wasatch Wanderers Animal Rescue
This animal rescue is focused on the care of abandoned, neglected or unwanted animals. Since it was founded in 2021, the organization has rescued 1,400 animals in need. Wasatch Wanderers is dedicated to educating owners about the care of domestic fowl, which are often dumped in rivers, lakes
and streams once they outgrow their “cute” chick stage. Rescuers hope that by teaching people that domesticated ducks, geese and chickens cannot survive in the wild, it will stop the illegal dumping of these animals. Learn more about the organization, or donate to the cause at wasatchwanderers.org.
Community Animal Welfare Society (CAWS)
CAWS is Utah’s oldest animal rescue group, providing foster care, adoption and education to save cats and dogs that are often overlooked or under-appreciated. This includes sick, elderly, injured or special needs animals looking for the perfect family. Most animals at CAWS are rescued from shelters across Utah and other states. Families looking to adopt are carefully screened to ensure they get the best pet for their home. For information about adoption, fostering, volunteering or donating, visit caws.org.
Canines With a Cause
This organization offers a double bonus: it pairs rescued shelter dogs with military veterans struggling with PTSD. Animals are evaluated at shelters to find potential candidates to become psychiatric service dogs, then partnered with a vet. The duo trains together, allowing the vets
When ducks are illegally dumped in ponds and streams, Wasatch Wanderers rescue and rehome them. It’s just one of the many organizations that help animals find loving homes. (Canva stock) to work with the dog to develop therapy skills and tasks. These can include interrupting distress, waking a vet up during nightmares, retrieving items and grounding. CWAC helps the pair develop a strong bond that supports both partners. Classes are offered to veterans at no cost. To learn more, visit canineswithacause.org.
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Of course they do. By Cassie Goff c.goff@mycityjournals.com
I
n our ongoing efforts to celebrate Salt Lake communities, we here at the City Journals would like to present you with some local (free or low-cost) alternatives for spoiling your furry family members. Athena VII offers free pup cups. Coffee house and bistro, their themed specialty drink menu includes Hades (dark mocha, ice cream, and whipped cream), Medusa (matcha latte with pistachio), and Cerberus (black tea, lemonade and peach), among others. Athena VII is located in Sandy at 111 W. 9000 South. www.athenavii.com Crown Burgers gives bacon to dogs riding through their drive-thru. Locally owned, Crown Burgers famous signature burger is their namesake. Their other menu options include salads, fish, chicken, gyros, lemon rice, and homemade onion rings. Crown Burgers is located in South Salt Lake at 3270 S. State St. www.crown-burgers.com Bjorn’s Brew welcomes dogs with real dog bones. The dog-friendly family-owned coffee shop features drinks like the Sinner’s Latte (caramel,
Does your doggo love a Pup Cup? hazelnut, vanilla, and an extra shot of espresso) and the Buzzin’ Bean (cold brew with cold foam). Bjorn’s Brew is located in South Salt Lake at 2165 S. State Street and Holladay at 4679 Highland Dr. www.bjornsbrew.com Tres Gatos Coffee provides free pup cups. Coffee shop featuring Best Non-Dairy Latte 2024, Tres Gatos’s signature menu items include the Nutcase Latte (nutty latte with nutty cold foam) and Dark Side of the Moon (dark mocha, pistachio, and coconut). Tres Gatos Coffee is located in Midvale at 7567 S. Main St. Swig has free pup cups that often include a Milk-Bone. The dirty soda chain’s menu includes mixes of classic soda with flavored syrups. They now have energy drinks, refreshers, pretzel bites, cookies, and hot chocolate as well. Swig’s locations are scatted throughout South Jordan, Sandy, Taylorsville, Midvale, Cottonwood Heights, West Jordan, and South Jordan. www.swig.com How about one more? Pro-tip from Salt Lake Metropolitan Magazine’s Executive Editor - visit Arctic Circle and order their kid cone as an alternative to a pup cup’s whipped cream. Most locations will offer kid cones for free but Adobe Stock may ask for a $1 donation. l
Art at The Park helps Utah artists flourish Interact with local artists on Sept. 18-19.
Bryce Samuleson is a landscape artist whose work was displayed at a previous Art at The Park Show. (Photo courtesy of Rob Chipman)
Page 18 | September 2026
UTAH ARTISTS RETURN to The Garden Place at This Is The Place Heritage Park (2601 Sunnyside Ave.) as part of the fifth annual Art at The Park event. The community is invited to attend the free art show Sept. 18-19, where they can meet the artists behind the works, watch live art demonstrations and explore a diverse selection of original pieces priced from $100 to $10,000. “We are so excited to be back for our fifth year at beautiful This Is The Place Heritage Park, where art lovers can see the amazing work of over 75 of Utah’s top fine artists,” said Rob Chipman, founder of Art at The Park and ArtThrive. “It is so satisfying to have enabled our artists to have sold well over $1 million worth of art since our founding. Now, as part of a new nonprofit organization, all of the net proceeds of the event will go towards helping local artists to flourish to an even greater degree.” The show is presented as part of ArtThrive, a new nonprofit organization that assists Utah artists and promotes art appreciation in the
state. More than 75 local artists will showcase their work at Art at The Park on Friday, Sept. 18, from noon to 9 p.m., and Saturday, Sept. 19, from 11:00 am until 7 p.m. Artists are expected from Cottonwood Heights, Bountiful, Kaysville, Draper, Holladay, Midvale, Millcreek, Murray, Riverton, Sandy, South Salt Lake, South Jordan, Taylorsville and West Jordan. In addition to artwork, attendees can experience a variety of food trucks and the beautiful setting of The Garden Place, making Art at The Park a unique destination for collectors, families and anyone looking to discover local talent. Whether purchasing a first piece of original art or expanding an established collection, visitors can enjoy a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where collecting art is made accessible and easy. “We are thrilled to host an event that highlights such exceptional local talent,” said Missy Larsen, CEO of This Is The Place Heritage Park. “For us, ‘Awaken the Pioneer Within’ isn’t just a theme, it’s a call to celebrate creativity, resilience and community connection.” Art at The Park reflects ArtThrive’s mission to create meaningful opportunities for Utah artists to flourish while fostering a vibrant and engaged
arts community throughout the state. Members of the public are encouraged to attend this free event, discover remarkable original artwork, and support Utah’s thriving creative community. Artists at the event include Esther Candari, a multidisciplinary artist who studies the connections between ecology and culture; Robert Fuerer, an artist known for his plein air landscapes and award-winning button mosaics; and Melissa Tshikamba, whose primary mediums are 22-karat gold and oils. Art at The Park is also committed to paving the way for emerging artists with its Student Art Showcase during the event. “Over the past five years, Art at The Park has set a standard of excellence that we are proud to foster,” Larsen said. “We invite everyone to join us, enjoy free entry to the grounds, and experience the work of some of Utah’s finest artists.” For more information and a complete list of participating artists, visit artattheparkutah.com.
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West Jordan City Journal
Family relies on resilience and joy as WJ grad continues football career Even setbacks and hardships can’t keep them down. By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com
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ehind the recognition and success, there’s often a backstory of challenges and dreams deferred. For Angela Haylock and her son, Syrus Webster, that’s certainly the case. While they’ve both received accolades and career advancements, their resilience in the face of adversity made it look easy. Haylock learned the strength of her tenacity when, at 2 years old, she lost her father. Her home situation wasn’t safe and she learned at a young age what strength looks like. “Resiliency shows up every single day in my life,” she said. “Instead of going down a negative path, I’m going to look at it from a positive perspective and see how I can turn a negative into a positive.” Recently, Haylock was named one of Utah Business Magazine’s Women to Watch for her work as ADA manager for Salt Lake City, where she’s been for the last year. The award recognized her contributions to the community through accessibility and inclusion. The South Jordan resident previously worked with Utah Transit Authority, where she advocated for micro transit service to fill the gap in standard bus routes. She also fought to get different vehicles where residents using wheelchairs could have a more comfortable and dignified ride. “It’s my goal to work on some Olympic initiatives as well to help us be prepared for the Olympics and Paralympics, making sure our city feels equitable, feels welcoming
Angela Haylock (left) with her son, Syrus Webster and daughter-in-law, McKena Webster. The family has risen above hardships to find the positive in every situation. (Photo courtesy Angela Haylock)
and feels friendly,” Haylock said. “We will all age and, at some point, have a disability. This is the reality and I think we forget that sometimes.” Her son has also demonstrated resilience in the face of setbacks. Webster, 23, was on his way to an NFL career when a
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broken foot sidelined him for months. After playing football for West Jordan High School, Utah Tech University and Washington State, Webster was fielding calls from NFL teams before the injury derailed his goals. After surgery and weeks of grueling physical therapy, he spent six months enduring heavy training to get back in professional football shape. He attended Washington State’s NFL Pro Day and reached out to coaches relentlessly until he got a surprising phone call. “I was sitting with my wife at Texas Roadhouse, it was our anniversary, and I got a call,” he said. “They asked, ‘Can you come out here tomorrow?’ and I was like, ‘I’ll be there tomorrow.’” The call was from the United Football League. With only three weeks left in the season, Webster flew to Texas to play for the UFL’s Columbus Aviators. He hadn’t played in almost a year, but he hit the ground running. “It was pretty surreal to come and do it again, but it was awesome,” he said. “It’s everything that I wanted. It was crazy to have a whole year of nothing, just waiting, and then I get a phone call, and I’m in a game two weeks later.” Both Haylock and Webster encourage people to get involved in their communities and find organizations that need a helping hand. She said the best thing to do is get out there and make positive changes in the world, even if it’s minimal. “It really is the small things that lead to bigger things.” “You can get through hard stuff and still succeed,” Webster said. “My base focus now is to put the things that matter first. My faith and my family have been my main focus. If you put those first, you’ll live a very joyful life, you’ll be very grateful for everything that’s coming.”l
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The Pause Project helps women learn about menopause
Two Utah event planners are turning their own perimenopause struggles into The Pause Project, a one-day conference Oct. 10 to replace “suffering in silence” with expert advice and community. By Rebecca Olds rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com
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arah Kyle and Brooke Tolman have been friends and business partners in the events industry for a long time, so it was natural for them to talk about anything and everything — even the topics the larger community still regards as “taboo.” “I hate to say it, but especially in Utah … we are supposed to have the perfect home … our children are perfect … there’s just this sense of like you can’t show any of your flaws,” Kyle said. Tolman started noticing strange symptoms: brain fog that made it impossible to remember details that once came easily, restless nights where her eyes snapped open around 3 a.m. and refused to shut again — what she and Kyle now jokingly call the “3 a.m. club.” Then came the hot flashes. Worst of all was a growing sense that she simply didn’t feel like herself anymore, and her confidence began to crack. Talking it through with Kyle, Tolman was stunned to learn she wasn’t crazy — and she wasn’t alone. Perimenopause and menopause affect most women, often starting in their 30s and lasting up to 10-12 years. Yet many say they were never told what to expect. Very little information is passed down within families, and most OB-GYN and primary care training includes only minimal
menopause education — lining up with what Tolman and Kyle heard about doctors getting “15-20 minutes of training” on hormones. “For a long time… women were supposed to hold it all together, right?” Tolman said. “The ‘suffering in silence’ is, I think, passed down from generations … you’re a woman, you just have to deal with it.” But Kyle and Tolman decided they weren’t going to “just deal with it.” “You’re just trying to feel normal,” Tolman said. “I think that is the one sign most doctors agree with: you don’t really know what is happening to you, you just know you don’t feel like yourself, and you may not know that any of this other stuff is all related.” On Oct. 10 at The Grand America Hotel, Tolman and Kyle are hosting The Pause Project, a one-day conference designed to give women both information and community around perimenopause and menopause. The event will feature local women physicians and specialists from major health systems, along with Utah-based companies focused on women’s health, supplements and wellness. “We’re not the experts, so we are leaning on experts,” Kyle said. “We do events, we’re suffering from this and we know a lot of women are. So we want to bring this to the public space.” They hope women will come with friends, adult daughters or sisters, take advantage of group pricing and, most importantly, bring their questions. Instead of 15 rushed minutes in an exam room, attendees will have a full day to hear from specialists, compare experiences with other women and leave knowing they’re not the only ones awake at 3 a.m. wondering what’s happening to their bodies.l
Brooke Tolman (left) and Sarah Kyle (right) created The Pause Project to help give hope and build a community of support for women experiencing perimenopause and menopause. (Photo courtesy Frederick W. Hayes/ Still Photographer)
WestJordanJournal .com
September 2026 | Page 21
Why government needs leaders who will work together
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Activity Center. All three organizations already administer income-based programs and are equipped to verify eligibility and prioritize the families with the greatest need, something county government was never set up to do well. Along the way, we extended the closure timeline, connected parents with state resources, and transferred the county’s surplus childcare equipment to our new nonprofit partners so they could get up and running faster. In today’s political climate, compromise is too often mistaken for weakness, or dismissed as splitting the difference until nobody’s happy. This decision argues the opposite. The council didn’t simply eliminate a program. We built a better one, one that reaches low-income families more reliably, makes more responsible use of taxpayer dollars, and puts childcare in the hands of organizations whose entire mission is childcare. That’s what I mean when I say government needs leaders willing to compromise. Not leaders who abandon their principles, but leaders who stay at the table with people they disagree with long enough to find something better than either side started with. Compromise didn’t weaken this outcome. It strengthened it. This wasn’t government doing less. It was government doing better, and I’d like to see us keep doing it that way.
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Aimee Winder Newton
childcare centers directly, at that level of subsidy, when so many working families in the county couldn’t access those services at all. That disagreement showed up in an initial vote that split the council down party lines, and it came with real anxiety for the families already enrolled. What happened next is the part I think is worth sharing. Rather than treating that first vote as the final word, Republican and Democratic council members continued listening to families, reviewing options and looking for common ground. We asked a better question than fund-it-or-cut-it: could we still make these spaces available for child care without the county trying to run the program itself and county property taxpayers subsidizing it? That work led to a unanimous vote to partner with nonprofit organizations whose core mission is serving low-income families, leasing them our existing childcare spaces at reduced rates in exchange for those organizations prioritizing income-qualified families. We paired it with expanded, affordable summer programming at recreation centers countywide. This past month, we got confirmation that it’s working as intended. Salt Lake Community Action Program will run an Early Head Start program at the Magna Recreation Center. YouthCity now leases space at the Northwest Recreation Center. Centro de la Familia de Utah will provide childcare at the Millcreek
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I‘ve written before in this column about compromise and why I think it’s one of the most undervalued qualities we can ask of Salt Lake County elected leaders. It doesn’t win applause at a Councilmember council meeting, and it rarely makes for a good District 3 campaign sign. But when it works, it produces better government than either side would have landed on alone. The Salt Lake County Council’s decision last fall on county-run child care is a great example of this, and I want to walk through why. For years, Salt Lake County Parks and the Millcreek and Northwest Activity CenRecreation operated childcare centers out of ters, even though childcare has never been recreation facilities in Kearns, Magna, and a statutory responsibility of county government. An independent analysis last year found the county was spending roughly $2 million a year in General Fund dollars to subsidize care for about 270 children, somewhere between $6,000 and $10,000 per child annually. A whistleblower audit also turned up fraud at one of the centers. Most troubling to me, the study found the county never verified household income at enrollment. Only 17% of the children enrolled were receiving state childcare assistance through the Department of Workforce Services, meaning we Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 10/15/26. had no real assurance that publicly subsidized spaces were going to the families who OPEN FOR TAKE OUT needed them most. DELIVERY: Door Dash, Grub Hub, Uber Eats Everyone on the council agreed afford801-280-4099 able childcare matters. The real argument was 7251 Plaza Center Drive • SpudToddos.com whether the county should keep operating
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West Jordan City Journal
I
’ve always wanted a beautiful front porch where I could drink tea, read a book and listen to the neighbor’s fight. A porch was one of the first social media platforms. It just took a while to get the gossip; you had to sit patiently and wait for it to walk by. Now, our inability to be still keeps us from the simple joy of lounging on the porch to watch the flowers bloom, see the boy down the street learn to ride a bike, notice where the stray cat hides so you can leave it a treat, or watch your neighbor back into a light pole. At my childhood home, we didn’t have a fancy porch with swings and flowers; we had a concrete slab in front of our door, with two cement steps leading to the walkway. That was our porch and we sat on it all the time. If we were seated on the stoop, our friends knew we could play. There was no texting to see if we were home. There were no parents on a group chat arranging a play date. Kids just rode by on their bikes and invited us to go to the park. We’d gather friends along the way who were sitting on various porch steps until we had an entire gang. When I had a stomachache, Mom gave me a can of Coca-Cola. Apparently the medical treatment for an upset stomach in those days was carbonated, caffeinated sugar. Because drinking Coke in Utah at the time was borderline scandalous, I took my demon
WestJordanJournal .com
Leave the porch light on Peri Kinder Life and Laughter
beverage to the porch and sipped it while my friends watched, concerned about the state of my soul. Porches were the center of neighborhood communication. We’d leave treats on people’s welcome mats and Valentine’s cards on doorsteps. It’s where the paperboy threw the newspaper every morning and where the neighbor stood to accuse us of doorbell ditching, which also happened on a porch. How many first kisses happen on the front porch? People came to our porch every day. When the doorbell rang, we’d run to the front door, racing to open it first. We didn’t have Ring cameras. We had curiosity. It might be the Fuller Brush Man, a neighbor returning a casserole dish or Mom’s friend stopping by to gossip. The porch was where you sat in the rain, enjoyed the sunset, ate homemade cookies and watched a moth throw itself against the porch light. It was the place where nothing
happened, but also everything happened. A porch held no expectations but promoted childhood observations like: Is that mysterious car a kidnapper and does he have candy? Maybe we got rid of our front-porch communities because a porch required us to do something we’re increasingly uncomfortable with: nothing. We humble-brag about our busy schedules, eliminate downtime and use our phones to entertain us during the three minutes it takes to microwave a frozen dinner. Ironically, there’s an app called Front Porch Forum that’s supposed to connect people to their neighbors and communities. But you don’t have to download an app to build
connection. In fact, I challenge you to disengage from tech and go outside. If you have a porch or a stoop, sit down. Wait for the world to come to you. Talk to the woman walking her dog. Visit with the teenager slouching past your house. Watch the neighbor washing his car or the kid selling lemonade. If you’re lucky, listen to the neighbor’s fight. It’s really the perfect location. Peri Kinder is an award-winning columnist and journalist who has written for The City Journals since 2004. She also hosts the Life & Laughter podcast. Peri can be reached at peri.k@thecityjournals.com.
September 2026 | Page 23
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