BRIGHTON FOOTBALL REACHES RICE-ECCLES FOR SEMIFINALS
By Jerry S. Christensen | j.christensen@mycityjournals.com
In the midsummer heat of August, the Brighton football team outlined its goals for the season. Those included two goals: regain the Region 6 championship and earn the right to play in the postseason “on the turf” at Rice-Eccles Stadium by being a final-four team.
It was a wet, cold October night to close the regular season in 2023 when Brighton lost the region championship on the West Panthers field. It would have been Brighton’s fourth region championship in a row. The odds of regaining the championship were long given that in August, when the goal was set, Brighton was predicted to take fourth in region behind West, Olympus and East.
Undaunted, the Bengals embarked upon a near perfect season. With 22 seniors on the roster, the team outscored opponents 312 to 82 through the regular season with four shutouts. The only chink in the armor came in a September shutout on Olympus’ home field when the Titans held Brighton sophomore quarterback Rice Palepoi scoreless and Brighton suffered a 13-0 loss. More adversity followed as Pale-
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Tyree Pearson sacks the Bountiful quarterback at Rice Eccles Stadium. (Photo Fortodayphotography David Mayfield)
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Unsung heroes: Canyons District celebrates professionals’ impact on students
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Passion, creativity, innovation, dedication. Those are some of the words used to describe Canyons School District’s 2024 Apex awards recipients, who have devoted their lives to make a positive impact on local school children.
They each accepted a crystal award and the appreciation of the Canyons Board of Education and the school district administration.
Amongst the recipients was former school board vice president Mont Millerberg, who died unexpectedly in February; he was posthumously awarded the Legacy Award.
His wife, who has been serving in his board position since April, accepted the honor with other family members.
“He would’ve been so humbled by this recognition,” Kris Millerberg said in a written statement. “It truly means a lot to our family to see his commitment to education remembered in this way.”
Mont Millerberg was born and raised in Midvale, attending Midvale Elementary, Midvale Middle and Hillcrest High. He worked as a sweeper at the old Union Elementary. His parents owned a floral shop on Main Street and he and his wife raised their six children in the town.
“Midvale meant so much to him, and it always guided his efforts to improve the schools. He wanted to ensure the schools in Midvale had the resources to thrive,” she said. “He truly believed in ‘the magic of the classroom’ and often reminded us that every decision should support what happens there.”
Alta High’s Kevin Clyde was honored as the APEX teacher of the year.
As a math teacher, he purposedly took out desks of his classroom, trading them for wall-to-wall white boards so students would engage with the math problems and wouldn’t be afraid to wipe it out when they make a mistake.
“When they do ask me questions, some are returned with other questions,” Clyde said. “I’m trying to get students to think. They’re learning advocacy, asking for what they need. The students have developed a relationship with somebody who they trust. That’s a big thing in life. You don’t always know what to do, but if you have people around you, you can ask for help.”
In return, many of them have written him notes of thanks.
“I’ve kept every one,” Clyde said. “It reminds me what I do matters. I love what I do.”
Copperview Elementary Principal Colleen Smith and retired Canyons Director of Middle Schools Cindy Hanson were named
APEX administrators of the year.
Smith is credited for not only working to bring Copperview out of turnaround status, but for building a culture where everyone has value and believes in their potential to succeed.
Hanson, who continues to work as a school improvement consultant, is credited for providing crucial guidance during the pandemic and helped lead the way to Canyons receiving districtwide accreditation.
This year’s educational support professional Apex winner is Brighton High’s custodial crew chief, Sara Cook, who has served school communities for 29 years; she credits her team with their commitment in wanting to
see the school look its best.
2024 Apex recipient for student support services professional of the year is the District’s school nursing program coordinator Jen Gerrard, who not only helps students with providing vision exams, administering insulin to diabetic students, and rendering first aid, but she has been a vital part in Canyons’ launch of a pilot telehealth program, which connects students with a healthcare provider without having to leave school.
Apex volunteer of the year Jessica Davies is a familiar face at Alta View Elementary, providing positivity and enthusiasm to the school culture, said school principal Scott Jameson.
“She has volunteered, spent hours recruiting other volunteers and has made our school a community, a family and a place where it’s wonderful to teach, a place where it’s wonderful to learn,” he said.
Relationships and community are key facets of the student programs and mission of the South Valley Chamber of Commerce, which was named 2024 Apex Award for Community Partner of the Year.
“It’s important for businesses to support education,” Chamber President and CEO Jay Francis said. “It’s important for students to be able to have opportunities to rub shoulders with businesses and business leaders.”
Former principal of Mt. Jordan and Albion middle schools Molly Hart, who now oversees Summit Academy schools, serves on the state school board and was honored as Apex elected official of the year.
“I wanted to be on the state board so that principals and teachers didn’t have to navigate the issues and manage the paperwork over being with parents and being with students,” she said. “I want, still to this day, to make a difference in the daily work that teachers and principals do in Utah.” l
COTTONWOOD HEIGHTS TEAM
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Apex volunteer of the year Jessica Davies, who has been a familiar face at Alta View Elementary from encouraging other parents to help with activities to snapping photos of all the events happening at the school, was congratulated by Supt. Rick Robins at the awards ceremony. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Financial reality sets in for Butler eighth graders
While there were lines at times at most every station, from communication to clothing, there were several students looking at their options how they could make more money at supplemental income.
“It’s so fun, but I spent my money so fast,” an eighth-grade Butler Middle School student said. “I only make $3,329. You have to save it or it’s going to go by so quick.”
This is Reality Town.
It’s an option for about 300 students to dress professionally to match their assigned profession and learn how to budget their monthly salary to support themselves and their assigned families. Students are expected to purchase housing, transportation, food, taxes and other necessities before they spend for optional choices such as a pet or entertainment.
“Reality Town gives them a glimpse into adulthood,” said Megan Brush, who was volunteering at the doctor’s office station. “It helps them understand finances and budgeting; it’s a life skill that’s invaluable.”
She was one of about 50 volunteers who staffed tables and helped students understand how to balance their budget, explain the difference of a debit versus credit card, and review their spending.
Alyssa Olson, who has worked in finance for seven years at Cyprus Credit Union, volunteered to help students.
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Eighth-grade
students visit stations to pay the rent, buy groceries and purchase transportation during Butler Middle School’s Reality Town. (Eileen Kastler/Cottonwood Heights)
“I love Reality Town; it gives everybody a great opportunity to learn young,” she said.
“We’ve seen a lot of people make financial mistakes, but even learning the small things they do at Reality Town makes it more realistic for them so that they can prevent those mistakes in the future.”
Volunteer Janica Hillesheim supports that belief.
“I have five kids and I’m in a finance class now,” she said. “What I’m learning now would have been so much more valuable when I was younger.”
Hillesheim said students being more
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knowledgeable about investments and retirement now will impact decisions about the amounts to save and invest as an adult.
“It’s an amazing program for them to be learning about this now,” she said.
Another eighth grader thinks Reality Town might be a little unrealistic.
“I think that the jobs are a little bit non-realistic because my job normally would earn six figures and I’m only making $71,000 before taxes,” she said, adding, “Other than that, I think it’s OK.”
Another student thought, “It’s overwhelming.”
Then she continued, “but it’s important to learn this stuff because it’s important later in life when you’re an adult. And you have to keep track of your money so you don’t go into debt.”
Brighton Work-Based Learning Facilitator Eileen Kastler helped with the event.
“Many of the students faced some surprises – some found themselves with a large family, had a limited income or were a single parent – making it necessary to adjust their choices to fit their situations,” she said. “Some had to give up a family vacation or skip a sporting event to cover the essential expenses like childcare or groceries. Reality Town gave them a dose of reality – and they learned that sometimes it can be rough.” l
Warm feet, warm hearts: Bella Vista students show compassion for the homeless
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Three-hundred sixty-three pairs of socks were sorted and bagged and will be finding their way on people-in-need’s feet, thanks to Bella Vista Elementary students and their families.
Inspired by actor and former YouTuber Robby Novak, who portrays Kid President, “the students heard his uplifting message about National Socktober Month and said, ‘let’s do that,’” third-grade teacher Wendie Nielson said.
During the month of October, the studentbody of 215 gathered kids’, men’s and women’s socks before Nielson’s class sorted and counted them.
“We had men’s work socks, warm fuzzy socks, cute pairs for kids,” she said. “We just had bins outside our classroom so it was easy for everyone to donate socks if they could.”
Third-grader Rachel Carruth brought in 20 pairs of children’s socks she picked out at a store.
“I picked some with rainbows and others with bright colors,” she said. “I wanted to help them feel happy and stay warm during the year. I know some homeless don’t have much clothing, so I wanted to help.”
Her classmate Owen Van Orden also brought in 20 pairs of socks “to help the homeless stay warm and safe; I want them to
have a better life.”
Eight-year-old Miguel Soares helped sort the socks.
“It’s hard for them when they don’t have enough money for rent and have to live outside or seek some shelter,” he said. “It’s important that everyone do something for them if they can.”
Nielson planned to take the socks to The Road Home Shelter in Midvale in early November.
Through the sock drive, she said students are learning organizational skills, practicing their counting skills and reflecting and expressing orally what they liked about the project. And, she added, students are learning about community service.
“Our students are learning empathy and that not everyone has what they need, not even socks,” she said. “They’re understanding that giving and kindness are important.”
Expressing gratitude: Students write veterans, thanking them for service and sacrifice
Eight-year-old Owen Van Orden knows a couple of veterans — his dad served in the air force and his grandpa in the navy. He, too, wants to serve in the military.
Third-grader Classmate Precellia Rolf knows two veterans as well — her mom and her grandpa.
She and her mother visited a nearby cemetery, placing flags on 32 veterans’ graves.
“We wanted to say, ‘we remember you and the sacrifice you gave for us and our country,’” she said.
Bella Vista classmate Goldie Westover knows “they have done a lot for our country and for making it better.”
“I had a great-grandpa who was in World War II and I’ve heard his stories that have been passed down through the generations,” she said. “My uncle was in the service, too. It’s important we remember them.”
In fact, half of Wendie Nielson’s class have veterans in their family. That’s why a class project to write to veterans was important to so many third graders.
“It’s nice to recognize the veterans with letters to brighten their day,” Nielson said. “I always felt they needed the recognition. They sacrificed a lot for us to be able to be free.”
On a lined paper with the outline of a soldier they colored artistically, students thanked those who served for being “nice and brave,” “helpful, mindful and kind” and for “keeping us safe and protecting our freedom.”
The students also expressed gratitude for the veterans’ sacrifice.
“They gave of themselves and their time with their families to help our country,” 8-year-old Miguel Soares said. “We need to thank them.”
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Earlier, the students learned Veterans Day was firstcalled Armistice Day, which marked the World War I truce, until the name was changed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1954 to honor all military veterans. They also watched a video about the holiday and were planning to read a book as a class.
Nielson said it’s been a long-standing tradition in her class to learn about Veterans Day.
“I've always sent students’ letters to the VA (veterans affairs) hospital and I always hear back from them. They send a letter thanking us for the letters. I read it to the kids; it’s a nice thank you and it also reinforces the importance of writing thank-you letters to the students,” she said.
Those third graders and their schoolmates were able to thank veterans for their service in person on Nov. 11 as those who have served and are serving greeted them at school.
“It means so much to the veterans that we thank them and understand what they did,” Nielson said, who’s dad was in the air force and grandfather served in the army.
She also shared a story about how her World War II neighbor served in Pearl Harbor and it was a few days before his family knew he was safe.
“It's important they learn our history. It's important they have an understanding,” Nielson said. “It's especially important to remember Veterans Day because we need them. What would we do without them?” l
After learning more about Veterans Day, Bella Vista third graders write letters to veterans. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
l Bella Vista third graders collected 363 pairs of socks to donate to The Road Home Shelter in Midvale during their socktober drive. (Wendie Nielson/ Bella Vista)
Taking flight: Teens find community and passion in aviation photography along the Wasatch Front
Aviation photography is a growing hobby along the Wasatch Front.
In the last few years Audrey Lee, who recently got into the hobby herself, said the interest has spiked following the movie release of Top Gun Maverick.
“It’s a pretty big community,” Lee said. “I didn’t realize that at first, and when I got here, you know, for me, it was just the way that I could connect with the mission and that I could connect with the aircraft that I was supporting at my day job.”
Lee moved from Connecticut four years ago and works on Hill Air Force Base as a non-uniformed general service member who writes procurement documents for the base.
She considers herself a mentor or “fly on the wall” for kids who come to the base, interested in aviation photography.
“Plane spotting is a pretty big hobby, and we’re really lucky to be at a base that’s more accessible than others,” she said. “But there are definitely still rules to keep in mind.”
She noted that she instructs other spotters that photographing any structures on the base is strictly prohibited as it can leak sensitive information.
Lee’s philosophy is that once the plane passes the fenceline, spotters can snap pictures. And they do.
Jackson Wilson
Jackson Wilson dreams of becoming a pilot for the United States Air Force, but if that goal doesn’t take off, he’s ready to pursue his growing passion for aviation photography.
Two years ago Jackson bought his first professional camera, a Canon EOS R10 and fell in love with aviation photography at an airshow since he “liked planes quite a bit.”
But until that point he had only looked at pictures and “scrolled Instagram looking at photos of planes.”
It was the speed aspect that caught his attention.
“I used to really be in cars because they go really fast, I’m a fan of going fast,” Jackson said. “The first time I really went to the airport, I saw a lot of really rare planes there, and I saw a bunch of F-16s taking off, and I thought it was really cool. And then from there… I guess it’s just something about it that I can’t explain.”
At 14 years old he’s building quite the aviation photograph portfolio by waking up early and spending up to six
By Rebecca Olds | rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com
days a week capturing the rarest planes with his camera. He frequents Salt Lake International Airport and various facilities across the state known to have planes nearby.
Jackson said that the appeal of spotting is the excitement and adrenaline of capturing the perfect photo of a speeding aircraft and feeling the sense of accomplishment that comes with it..
“I can’t wait to get home and really look at it because usually the screen on these cameras isn’t too great,” he said. “Maybe it’s something you’ve wanted, been wanting to see for a while now, and you just did, and you got a really good photo of it.”
Since Jackson attends online school in Canyon School District and both of his parents work from home, even though he doesn’t have a license he has a ride and the time and flexibility to cultivate his photography skills.
“We’re very free to do stuff most of the time, especially throughout the middle of the week, where they’re most active flying,” he said.
His dream is to take pictures of European and Asian planes and to visit the Royal International Air Tattoo in the United Kingdom usually in June or July.
Amden Olsen
A new group known as the Wasatch Wingmen was started. It currently has 12 or 13 members—mostly kids Jackson’s age— including his new friend 15-year-old Amden Olsen. Together, they go spotting to capture sought-after aircraft and exchange photography tips and techniques.
Amden, a Riverton resident, in addition to his time with the Wasatch Wingemen, is part of a non-government military program through the U.S. Airforce for high school students at the South Valley Regional Airport.
He has been into aviation photography for about two years, the same amount of time as Jackson, and recently started his own photography business.
Amden participates in the Civil Air Patrol to expand his aviation knowledge and plans to become a commercial pilot.
“I just recently decided that I wanted to start preparing myself to get my private pilot’s license, so I joined [the program] to help gain a little more knowledge on aviation,” he said. “I want to go be a commercial pilot for Delta.”
He said the hardest part of spotting and getting the perfect shot is tracking.
“I’ve gotten a lot of practice in tracking the aircraft with my camera and keeping it in frame,” Amden said. “In my viewfinder on my camera has little focal points, which I use to help. I either try to keep it on the middle one or keep it in between the circle of them.”
At the end of the day, when the spotting is all said and done, it’s really only one good shot that you need.
“Honestly, it feels great,” Amden said. “It’s probably one of the most it’s one of the reasons I continue to do it because when you get it… it’s all about getting the good shot, right? So when you get a good shot, most people have physical excitement expressed on their bodies in some way, shape or form.”
But the beauty of photography, he said, is that you don’t have to have a nice camera to take pictures. He started out with his phone before he upgraded to his professional camera.
“One of the biggest misconceptions about photography in general, especially aviation photography, is that you need a camera,” he said. “Even if you have a phone, you can still edit your photos and they can come out almost as good as a cheaper quality camera.”
Aviation photography awaits recognition
While it’s true a phone can snap a picture or video, Lee said the best pictures require specialized equipment.
Lee said that camera gear doesn’t exist specifically for the hobby.
“In the photography world, aviation photography is not really recognized as a type of photography—there’s transportation, like cars, and then there’s sports photography, which is very fast,” she said. “But, aviation photography just isn’t something that’s on a lot of camera companies’ radar.”
But she hopes that changes.
“As the community gets bigger, I feel like, they can’t ignore us forever,” Lee said. l
A USAF F-35A departure. (Courtesy of Jackson Wilson)
Friends 14-year-old Jackson Wilson and 15-year-old Amden Olsen frequently visit facilities across the state to capture images of rare planes and develop a budding talent for aviation photography. (Courtesy of Amden Olsen)
A400M “Atlas” on final into KSLC. (Courtesy of Amden Olsen)
Salvation Army Angel Tree helps thousands of children each year
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
The Salvation Army and KUTV 2News have partnered for the 32nd year to provide gifts for children and older adults through the Salvation Army Angel Tree program. Since its inception in Salt Lake in 1992, the Angel Tree has helped hundreds of thousands of Utah residents.
Salvation Army Lt. Kate Combs said the program has been successful thanks to numerous donors and generous people who provide gifts and cash donations so children in the state can have a joyful Christmas.
“We really tailor it to each individual child so the parents get the opportunity to ask for the specifics for that child,” Combs said. “We also try to provide an outfit and shoes and a coat, as well as the toy items.”
To help a child or older adult for the holiday, people can visit Smith’s Marketplace and Cyprus Credit Union locations throughout Salt Lake County and select a tag from the Angel Tree. The tag has a list of items donors can purchase which they then return to the Angel Tree location.
Angel tags represent children from 0-12 years of age and older adults living in residential care facilities. The Salvation Army hopes to help nearly 3,000 children
this year and around 1,300 older adults.
“People can pick whichever tag they prefer and it’s a cool thing that sometimes they’re drawn to a particular name
because it’s the name of a family member,” Combs said. “Or maybe they have an 8-year-old girl and they want to let her pick something for someone her age.
Maybe a grandparent chooses a child because they have the same interests as their grandchild. Sometimes they choose a senior that’s the same age as their parents.”
People can pick up an Angel Tree tag through Friday, Dec. 13, giving volunteers time to shop and put gifts together for each child. Donated gifts must be new and unwrapped. Monetary donations are also accepted. For more information, visit saltlakecity.salvationarmy.org.
Additionally, the KUTV Holiday Pops Concert scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. will contribute all ticket proceeds to the Salvation Army Angel Tree. The concert, hosted by Sterling Poulson, will be held at Cottonwood High School in Murray (5715 S. 1300 East) and feature the West Valley Symphony of Utah, the Alta High School Madrigals and the Choral Arts Society of Utah. Tickets are available at Eventbrite.com.
“Every time you see a tag, that’s a genuine child,” Combs said. “If you’re still seeing tags in December that means that child doesn’t have items gifted to them. We don’t want any child to go without this Christmas.” l
Thousands of items are donated to the Salvation Army each year to help children and older people have a happy holiday. (Photo courtesy of the Salvation Army)
Arts council seeks artists, members to help bring creative events to city
By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
TheCottonwood Heights Arts Council is currently seeking new members as they ramp up their plans to diversify local events in 2025. They are also looking for more opportunities to work with and support local artists, even those who are aspiring into the world of various multimodal artwork.
Moving into the 2025 calendar year, the Arts Council will be working to provide hands-on art experiences to everyone in the community. They are hoping to further connect and collaborate with other communities beyond the city and the local artists as well.
“We want to balance the community’s traditional and current interests. We try to keep events diverse,” said chair Laura Garcia.
One of the ways the Arts Council aims to balance traditional and modern art is through their free public art shows. Each month, a new local artist is chosen to showcase their work within the main hallways of the Cottonwood Heights City Hall (2277 Bengal Blvd.). Many different mediums have been included in the Artist of the Month series, including calligraphy, photography, painting and fan art.
“It’s really catching on,” Garcia reported. “We are trying to reach out to more beginner and expert artists.”
The December art show will aim to incorporate as many cultural traditions and winter celebrations as possible. In coordination, the Arts Council will be presenting a Christmas Concert where local acapella group Eclipse 6 will be performing. The free Christmas Concert will be held at Butler Middle School (7530 S. 2700 East) on Friday, Dec. 6, from 7:30 until 9 p.m.
The Arts Council has been working to bring art into the community in a handful of different ways outside of the Artist of the Month shows too. Eight electrical boxes have recently been wrapped with artwork by local artists.
“We are thrilled about how the electrical boxes are getting a lot of attention,” Garica said.
All were designed by local artists who are, coincidentally Brighton High School alumni. They all worked for free – donating their time to create specific artwork appropriate for the local residents. They were tasked to incorporate Cottonwood Heights into their artwork in some way.
Gracia reported all of the electrical boxes have been wrapped to protect against weathering and other harmful effects and should last for two to three years. The Arts Council will be deciding closer to that date if they want to change out the artwork every three years.
The Smartest Artist art-studio owner (and local artist) Whitney Horrocks worked with the Arts Council to paint a mural on a noticeably-declining public wall within Mountview Park (1651 Fort Union Blvd.) this year as well. The mural was also covered
Heights. This year, Light the Heights will be held on Monday, Dec. 2.
“There will be a chance for kids to meet Santa, do some crafts, see a performance by the Brighton High School Band and, of course, the lighting of the tree in front of City Hall,” said Cottonwood Heights Culture Coordinator Kate Hoflich.
“We want to mix new events next year with the councilmembers talents and community’s interests,” Garcia said.
There are currently eight members on the Arts Council including Garcia, vice chair Ciara Powers, secretary Laura Howe, Cheryl Glenn, Emily Smith, Michelle Muirbrook, Susie Shi and Sirima Atikul. Supporting these volunteer arts councilmembers are Cottonwood Heights Culture Manager Ann Eatchel, Hoflich and Councilmember Shawn Newell.
with a protective coat to keep the artwork safe from graffiti and vandalism that will last up to three years.
Besides local art shows, the Arts Council hosts a variety of events throughout the year. A few that have been recalled as traditions from residents are the Sweetheart Paint Night,
Chinese New Year, Painting in the Park and the Chalk Art contest at Butlerville Days.
“Residents are looking forward to these Cottonwood Heights traditions,” Garcia said.
Besides hosting their own events, the Arts Council works with other city committees and communities to establish their presence and provide local artwork. They attend city events like Monster Mash and Light the
“We are always looking for more members and opportunities for collaboration,” Garcia said. “If you know people who are interested we are a really fun group.”
To learn more about the Cottonwood Heights Arts Council, visit their website at: www.cottonwoodheights.utah.gov/community/arts/arts-council.
Or follow their social media pages on: Facebook at @CHArtsCouncil or Instagram at @CHCityArts l
The Cottonwood Heights Arts Council will sponsor a free Christmas concert performed by acapella group Eclipse 6 on Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m. (Kate Hoflich/Cottonwood Heights)
Local artist Brekke Sjoblom debuts her artwork on one of the eight electrical boxes throughout the city of Cottonwood Heights. (Laura Garcia/Arts Council)
Navigating Grief and the Holidays
By Kathie Supiano, PhD, LCSW
The holiday season is nearly upon us. This is the time of year when grieving people often feel dread and sorrow about the very events and traditions that formerly brought happiness.
As every grieving person handles loss in their own way, each one of us observes holidays in our own way in time of bereavement. There simply is no one right way to experience the holidays. Some nd meaning in following cherished traditions, and others bene t from avoiding traditions because their associations are now tinged with loss. Some people nd great comfort in being with other people, others prefer solitude to camaraderie. For all of us, how we gather is as important as gathering at all.
Plan ahead for the holidays: The rst step in planning is to listen to yourself….what will help you most at this time? You may have strong memories and powerful feelings. Accept this as normal, but prepare for it. Anticipate the pleasures and the stresses of events, and select those you want to participate in. If you expect to be lonely, arrange supportive companionship. If you can’t bear the thought of connecting with the entire extended family, let the family know of your needs. Be creative and accept support by using distance technology.
Accommodate your plans to your new limits: Most grieving people have signi cantly lowered physical stamina and emotional reserve. Perhaps you can’t get every decoration out this year. Accept these limits as temporary, and good enough for this year. Choose to put your energy into the things that matter most to you.
Accept that the holidays will be di erent this year: The holidays are often lled with unrealistic expectations that may overwhelm you. You may need to revisit your goals and nd a balance between continuity and change. Many people nd a special comfort in establishing a new holiday tradition that honors the memory of the person who died.
Recognize that other family members or friends may have struggles, too: Look for opportunities to discuss your feelings and wishes with others who may also be grieving for your family member. Try to respect their choices, if they are di erent from yours. You all may need to make compromises.
If the holidays have always been hard for you: Use this transition in your life to try something completely new…an untraditional-tradition. Perhaps you have never taken the occasion create a new experience on your own. As challenging as loss can be, it can bring momentum to grow and to try something new.
For all of us, whether the holidays are a time of personal signi cance or not, it can be a season in which we re ect on what we do cherish as we journey through grief.
Kathie Supiano, PhD, LCSW is an Associate Professor at the University of Utah College of Nursing and the Director of Caring Connections: A Hope and Comfort in Grief Program. Caring Connections is a not-for-pro t program that o ers clinician-facilitated grief support groups in Utah.
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Comcast’s initiatives have a broad impact across Utah
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Comcast has contributed more than $5.2 million in cash and in-kind contributions to nearly 100 nonprofit partners in Utah, over the last three years. Organizations like Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, the Alpine School District Foundation, Neighborhood House and United Way have all benefited from Comcast’s giving initiatives.
Project Up is a $1 billion program dedicated to closing the digital divide while connecting more people to the internet and creating opportunities for the next generation. Project UP supports nonprofit organizations that offer digital skills training, helping learners of all ages and skill levels to succeed in an increasingly digital world.
“With the support of Comcast, youth in our programs were able to get handson experience with advanced computers, guided exposure to the internet and new technologies, and about 3D modeling and other lessons that introduce youth to technology uses in many careers,” said Haylee Mathews, Boys & Girls Clubs of Salt Lake STEM Director. “The surprise of the 280 laptop computers to club members has been great for our youth to use as they learn about a variety of technology-related fields. Comcast has helped foster a culture and desire among our youth to learn more and pursue technology-related fields.”
Along with empowering communities, Comcast is helping to build a more equitable workforce by providing tech training and mentorship to underserved communities. Through partnerships with organizations like Per Scholas and CodePath, more people are mastering digital literacy.
Comcast also created more than 1,250 Lift Zones across the country, offering free WiFi access in community centers and recreation facilities. With nearly 40 Lift Zones in Utah, underserved families and neighborhoods can participate in accessing digital opportunities. Additionally, Comcast’s Internet Essentials program provides in-home broadband access for qualifying households.
Lily is an immigrant from Taiwan, assisted by the United Way of Utah County, one of Comcast’s partners. Adjusting to life in America has been challenging particularly when it comes to understanding technology. As an older woman, she said the learning curve was steep and she often felt overwhelmed in class.
“Then, during one of our sessions, I entered an old address from my childhood in Taiwan,” Lily said. “As the screen displayed the familiar streets and landmarks of my youth, tears welled up in my eyes. It had been so long since I had seen the place where I spent my carefree days playing. It
was a deeply moving experience, allowing technology to transport me back in time and mend a piece of my heart.”
Comcast’s corporate giving plays a crucial role in helping local nonprofits fulfill their missions. It also invests in future entrepreneurs through Comcast RISE, supporting the growth of 13,500 small businesses by providing monetary, marketing and technology grants to help entrepreneurs on their road to success.
By collaborating with community partners, Comcast has fostered digital literacy and work readiness skills, giving people across Utah access to the tools they need to navigate a digital world.
“Neighborhood House families live in areas that are digital deserts and many of our families do not have access to computers for their children,” said Neighborhood House Executive Director Jennifer Nuttall. “In this age of technology, that puts our school-age kids at a disadvantage, but Comcast has stepped in to provide laptops and connectivity, ensuring that all kids have the technology they need to succeed in school and beyond. This has been enormously impactful.”
Comcast is committed to addressing the digital divide with forward-thinking programs and technology. It aims to continue building Utah’s tech landscape through valuable partnerships, initiatives and digital support.
“Our commitment at Comcast to bridging the digital divide is evident through forward-thinking programs and innovative technology that empower communities across Utah,” said Deneiva Knight, External Affairs Director, Comcast Mountain West Region. “By partnering with nearly 100 nonprofit organizations and contributing over $5.2 million in cash and in-kind support over the past three years, we are dedicated to nurturing Utah’s tech ecosystem.
“Through initiatives like Project UP, a $1 billion program designed to connect more people to the internet and equip them with essential digital skills, we are laying the groundwork for a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive in the digital age.”
For more information, visit Corporate.comcast.com. l
Comcast supports nonprofits in the state including Neighborhood House, United Way and the Boys & Girls Clubs. (Photo courtesy of Comcast)
Brighton girls soccer return to the 5A state finals
By Jerry S. Christensen | j.christensen@mycityjournals.com
Brighton High School girls soccer exceeded expectations on the pitch this season. The preseason coaches’ poll left Brighton off the “teams to beat” list. Yet, through the 20-game season, they entered the 5A finals game with only a single loss having defeated each of the listed “teams to beat.”
They dominated opponents scoring 57 goals and allowing only 17 goals in their own nets. In fact, Lilah Sligting, the sophomore goalkeeper, notched 11 of those games as shutouts. “We have a very talented and driven group of young ladies who strive for excellence in all facets of life,” notes fifth-year head coach Sara Cowley.
Brighton girls soccer is a storied program that boasts seven state championships. Yet the program had not been to the state finals since 2013. Cowley has systematically built the program over the last five years to take demonstrative steps each year. 2023 was a final four finish. This year was a trip to the 5A finals.
The program supports four full teams: varsity, JV, two freshman/sophomore teams. “We always love interacting with the community and had a blast at our third annual Bengal soccer mini-camp. We also begin the season with a team service project helping to end child hunger here in our own community, packing food bags out at the amazing USANA Kids Eat program headquarters. Those two things always get us off to a great start,” Cowley said.
With the mantra “The strength of our team is the team,” the 2024 team was focused on getting better each day. Practices and games were intentional and focused on helping each player understand her role and how to use
the talent and skills in the group to become the best team. The process allowed for breakout performances by senior Paige Christensen (14 goals, 3 assists), junior Oakley Zenger (10 goals, 5 assists) and senior Jane Allen (6 goals, 15 assists).
The lone regular season Brighton loss came early against Olympus. The schedule allows a home and an away game for each region opponent. When Olympus came to Brighton’s home pitch, the loss was avenged giving Olympus its only loss for the season. Thus, Brighton and Olympus shared the Region 6 championship and entered the postseason state tournament on opposite ends of the bracket as the second and first seeds. The two rivals were destined to meet for a third time.
GRIEF HAS NO TIMELINE
Grief is an individual journey with a path as unique as each one of us. To o er support and hope, we provide various Grief Support Services for those who are mourning a recent or past loss.
Brighton earned home pitch advantage through the first rounds of the state playoffs and moved the venue to the bright lights of Brighton’s Freestone Field. The stadium afforded them two more shutouts against Alta and Wasatch. The shutouts continued in the semifinal game at Zions Bank Stadium in Herriman where senior Emry Stott scored the game-winner in the 54th minute directly from a corner kick. “Emry is a competitor, that girl brings it every day,” Cowley said. “If you want someone with a competitive spirit who’s going to fight, even in practice if it’s a drill, she’s going at it 100%. She takes it seriously. I’m just so happy she had success in the playoffs.” That improbable corner kick sent Brighton back to the finals.
It was a crisp October morning when Brighton and Olympus met for a third and decisive time to determine a state champion. Sligting sealed the nets for another shutout in 100 minutes of regular time and two overtime periods against Olympus’ star Hope Munson who came into the finals with a league-leading 25 goals and 15 assists. The state championship came down to penalty kicks where Olympus finally got the edge on Brighton 4-2.
“The most impressive part was how the players grew together as the season went—the team was the star,” coach Cowley said. “The defensive effort displayed in the playoffs, and state final especially, was inspiring. Coaching this group has been a highlight of my career so far. I will always remember this 2024 team as being full of talent. I am proud of all that was accomplished this year in the Brighton girls soccer program. Looking forward to next season!” l
Lucy Nelson sends the Brighton girls soccer team to the semifinals.
(Photo courtesy Nate Dowdle)
New sidewalks, water inlets and roadways for Cottonwood Heights neighborhoods
By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
“Iwantto brag about my staff and all the work they’ve been doing to make these projects happen,” said Cottonwood Heights Public Works Director Matt Shipp.
On Oct. 15, Shipp presented all of the recent happenings for the Public Works Department during his quarterly report to the city council. The Public Works team had laid 1,867,500 square feet of chip seal and 1,867,500 square feet of slurry seal throughout the year since the first of January.
“Chip seals and slurry seals are rough processes when they go down,” Shipp said. “The travel is what smooths it out.”
Shipp recounted how important it is for his Public Works crew to routinely lay down the chip and cape seals. The price for road maintenance per square foot averages about 90 cents to the dollar every seven-to-ten years. Fort Union Boulevard is about to hit that critical eight-year mark so it will be on the horizon for the Public Works team to chip seal within the next year.
“We maintain these roads and it makes a huge difference,” Shipp said.
If an area needs to be completely reconstructed, the price jumps to between $9-$10 per square foot of road. This is what happened with Prospector Drive over the summer. It needed a full reconstruction. This project included 17,800 yards of asphalt, 6,930 feet of curb and gutter, 7,900 feet of driveways and flatwork, and
10,150 of sidewalk replacement.
“We have received a lot of positive feedback from the residents about the workers and contractors,” Shipp said. He thanks the residents for their patience as the reconstruction impacted their one-way in and out of the neighborhood.
In addition to the Prospector Drive reconstruction, the Towne Drive project has been completed. The Towne Drive project included reconstruction of the roads along Towne Drive, Towne Circle, Canterbury Lane and Toni Circle.
“We did a lot of stormwater work up there,” Shipp said.
That work included 270 square feet of waterway improvements, 3,613 square feet of sidewalk replacement, 4,666 square feet of flatwork replacements, 3,921 feet of curb and gutter, and 7,335 square yards of asphalt. Part of that side-
walk replacement included a federal-aid project that connected Bengal Boulevard to Canterbury Lane on the east side of the road.
The Public Works team also worked to repair the waterway lines and replace the sidewalks along Cory Hill Circle. Eight hundred and sixty-nine square yards of roadway had previously been experiencing chronic issues with roadway cracking, so that was all rehabilitated along with 134 feet of sidewalk and 207 feet of curb and gutter.
“I’m sure the delivery drivers are extremely happy as well. They don’t have to pull their trucks out anymore,” Shipp said.
Additional projects included a sidewalk being constructed along Bengal Boulevard up through 1700 East on the east side of the road. Creek Road received 27 new waterway inlets
too along with 513 square feet of curb and gutter replacement.
There was one emergency waterway repair along Supernal Drive that the Public Works team responded to as well. Through the repair work, the team found a waterline had broken about 15 feet down a few years prior so the water kept washing underneath the area. The ongoing water leak finally resulted in collapse and the yard being completely destroyed.
“The homeowner has been absolutely wonderful,” Shipp said.
The Public Works team has been working to construct sidewalks throughout the roads of Cottonwood Heights as well. One of those crosswalks received a lot of news attention toward the end of the summer as a new HAWK Crosswalk was unveiled in front of Bella Vista Elementary School at Nye Drive along Fort Union Boulevard.
A raised crosswalk has been constructed and implemented along Banbury Road in front of Bywater Park (3149 Banbury Road). The crosswalk includes rapid reflecting flashing (RRF) lights and planted trees within constructed tree wells in the middle of the crosswalk. The chosen trees should grow high enough and then out to allow for a canopy-lined street.
“We want tree-lined streets,” praised Councilmember Suzanne Hyland. l
Public Works reported that 14,163 square feet of sidewalk was constructed along 1700 East near Bengal Boulevard. (Matt Shipp/Cottonwood Heights)
Whitmore Library celebrates 50 years
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
the Whitmore Library opened in 1974, it offered its patrons access to cutting-edge technology. People could check out typewriters, filmstrip projectors, calculators and cassette recorders. They could also make their own transparencies and slides and edit Super 8mm film. There was even a UPI teletype machine to give residents up-to-date news stories.
On Nov. 15, The County Library celebrated the Whitmore’s 50th anniversary with a ribbon cutting and events for the entire family including story time, a magic show, a digital photo booth, crafts, treats and a scavenger hunt.
Whitmore Manager Maggie Mills has worked at the branch in Cottonwood Heights (2197 E. Fort Union Blvd.) for three years but has served with The County Library for more than 20 years. She said the library continues to be a place that provides its patrons with access to technology, resources and reading materials.
“In our Library of Things we have Preserve the Memories equipment, we have Chromebooks people can use, we even have telescopes,” Mills said. “Technology is ever evolving and we will always assess what would be useful for our patrons to have for them to borrow, as well as what things could
help us do our jobs better.”
Designed with a library on the main floor and library system administration on the lower level, the library was so popular, it was expanded in 1977. While the Whitmore branch hosts the system’s technical services department, the County Library’s administrative offices are now located at the West Jordan branch and Viridian Event Center.
Cottonwood Heights Councilmember Suzanne Hyland attended the Whitmore ribbon cutting ceremony and highlighted the library’s purpose in the community.
“It’s a gathering place and a place where people can learn and come together,” Hyland said. “Think about what a library has become. It’s not just books, it’s technology based. You can check out tablets, you can do so many things that can enrich the lives of our citizens. Think about when we get out of school. Where do we go? We go to the library. Where do we bring our children to help them start learning from infancy? We go to the library. It’s the heart of a community.”
Salt Lake County Library Director Joey McNamee said Whitmore is one of the highest-circulating branches in the county and a central part of Cottonwood Heights.
“It’s loved by community members who live here now and who have lived here be-
fore,” McNamee said. “We also have some candies from 1974 which in fact was 50 years ago. So we’re celebrating the lifespan of this building with sugar, everyone’s favorite way to celebrate.”
Other officials in attendance included Cottonwood Heights City Manager Jared Gerber, Salt Lake County Councilmember Laurie Stringham and additional leaders from the city and county.
Attendees received a disco ball keychain, stickers, a bag of 1970s candy and they could make a pet rock. The Whitmore branch is scheduled for demolition in a few years to make way for a new library building.
“You know, 50 years is a long time and a building can only last so long,” Mills said. “We will be rebuilding in a few years but there’s no exact timeline.” l
Residents, Cottonwood Heights leaders and Salt Lake County officials celebrate the Whitmore Library’s 50th anniversary on Nov. 15 with fun activities, story time and a scavenger hunt. (Peri Kinder/City Journals)
Be prepared and test your knowledge about emergencies
By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
After walking the Cottonwood Heights City Council through their annual emergency response training, Salt Lake County’s Emergency Management Director Tara Behunin asked the councilmembers to play a game with her to test their knowledge. Read through the connecting story and then come back here to play along. See if you can beat your councilmembers by tallying the answers you get correct.
We must begin by following along through a possible Scenario (1) Behunin detailed out for the council: Cottonwood Heights gets a heavy snow storm, a good 8 feet of snow. Power lines throughout the city began to slump under the weight of the snow. The Cottonwood Heights Public Works team is overwhelmed.
From an emergency response perspective: How would the main event be defined? What are the cascading events? What should the first and secondary concerns of the city be? (Note your answers before checking them below.)
“The city would be shut down. How would you get resources to homes?” asked Behunin.
After listening through some of the councilmembers initial response, Cottonwood Heights Police (CHPD) Assistant Chief Paul Brenneman clarified the answer in terms of what their emergency response team would be prepared to do.
“We always want to be concerned about life safety first and then not making the situation worse,” said Brenneman.
He detailed how coordination with the Public Works team would be vital in terms of getting roads clear enough to get any and all stuck cars out of the road. The city would also need to be proactive in terms of getting out a message to stay at home.
Behunin chimed in recommending the frequent ask of residents to have a response kit, warmers, food and water in their cars.
We are off to a great start! Ready for round two?
Here’s the Scenario (2): On July 4, sparks from a celebration along the east
side of Wasatch Boulevard ignites some of the dried natural debris. Southwest winds are strong enough to fuel the fire and start pushing it into the neighborhoods and surrounding city.
From an emergency response perspective: How would the main event be defined? What are the cascading events? What should the first concern of the city be? Where do the (potentially) evacuated people go? What other critical infrastructure might be affected? (Note your answers before checking them below.)
If a wildfire forced Cottonwood Heights residents to evacuate, the CHPD would work with our local Unified Fire Authority (UFA) to knock on doors, spread the message through the PA systems equipped in their vehicles and set up roadblocks. The residents would, most likely, be asked to
evacuate to the Cottonwood Heights Recreation Center.
“We have an agreement with Red Cross for the Rec Center…if the Rec Center is standing,” Brenneman explained.
Brenneman asked the councilmembers to think about what precautions they would need to be taking in terms of infrastructure, as part of their role(s) as councilmembers is to know and navigate city hazards.
“The Metro Water facilities (treatment plant and storage) are right there. They provide water for how many people in the valley?” he asked. “Almost of all us.”
Brenneman reminded the councilmembers and city residents that emergency scenarios and responses are not as simple as “hey, we have a fire.” He asks residents to be prepared with enough resources to last them until it’s possible for a local or state
A Joint Information System response includes offsite policy guidance, support commands and coordination centers, and on-scene incident management. (Tara Behunin/Salt Lake County’s Emergency Management)
response team to get to them. Seventy-two to 96 hour kits are often recommended.
“As we have learned…hope is not a plan,” said Councilmember Suzanne Hyland.
Correct answers for Scenario 1.
Main event: Snow storm.
Cascading events: down powerlines, access to power needs, food needs. First concern: communication.
Secondary concerns: clearing streets for mobility (along with public safety).
Correct answers for Scenario 2.
Main event: wildfire.
Cascading events: power outages, evacuation, resource management. First concern: communication.
Evacuation point: receiving centerCottonwood Heights Recreation Center (7500 S. 2700 East).
Affected infrastructure: Metropolitan Water District Facilities accessing the watershed. l
Salt Lake Valley’s Coordination Map shows which agencies local municipalities should communicate and coordinate with in response to an emergency incident. (Tara Behunin/Salt Lake County’s Emergency Management)
Preparedness before an emergency incident strikes includes assessing risks, checking policies, and ensuring jurisdiction knowledge. (Tara Behunin/Salt Lake County’s Emergency Management)
City leaders review emergency management plans and problems
Imagine for a moment a rumbling in the distance. Wood walls creak as the ground swells like a wave. An earthquake hits the city of Cottonwood Heights. Power lines fall; asphalt cracks destroy roadways; water lines burst; communication devices fade to black. Sirens blare in the distance. First responders are miles away and won’t be near anytime soon.
Such scenarios where neighborhood emergency response teams are likely to be overwhelmed are of shared concern across municipalities within the state. In response, Salt Lake County has adopted a federal approach to prepare for a large-scale emergency. Based on National Incident Management System (NIMS) tenets, the regional incident command system relies on multi-agency coordination group (MAC) utilizing emergency operations centers (EOC).
“I value this partnership,” said Cottonwood Heights Police (CHPD) Assistant Chief Paul Brenneman. “When I started, everyone was doing their own thing. Since the county stepped up about seven years ago, they have…paid big money to coordinate their efforts. Our interests are now annexed into the county’s plan. We are not alone in this.”
Brenneman referenced the city council’s passing of Ordinance 415: Adopting a Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan back on April 16.
As part of their annual training, Salt Lake County’s Emergency Management Director Tara Behunin visited the Cottonwood Heights City Council on Oct. 15. She joined Brenneman and Unified Fire Authority (UFA) Assistant Chief Riley Pilgrim to walk the council through their goals and response plans.
The main goal of the multi-agency coordinated (MAC) response plan is to work together to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond and recover from incident effects. In an emergency event, they would all work together to cross-communicate and disperse agency resources.
“What we do is coordinate,” Behunin said leading into reviewing the tenets of NIMS.
The major components, or main tenets, outlined through NIMS are resource management, command and coordination, and communication and information management. The focus being on the three C’s: communication, collaboration and coordination.
“If emergency managers could have tattoos it would probably be the three C’s,” Behunin laughed.
When/if an incident (an unplanned event that requires response actions to prevent or minimize loss of life) occurs, it’s up to the city responders to assess first. Daily incidents should be handled by localized municipalities all on their own. If local government municipalities working along with private sector organizations get overwhelmed, then Salt Lake County tag teams throughout various boundaries provide support. If the county-level gets overwhelmed, then they go to the state government to call in UDOT and the National Guard for support.
“Once it becomes a significant event, we are getting federally declared disasters like the riots in 2020,” Behunin said.
In Cottonwood Heights, the city manager is chief command of the city. They would be in charge or exchanging coordination efforts to provide the community a sense of assurance and effectively get back to normal as quickly as possible.
“If it starts local, then the control stays local until we advocate to someone else,” Brenneman explained.
However, if Cottonwood Heights were to declare an emergency under the city manager’s prevue, the county would start resourcing supplies for things like fuel and food through local outlets. This would fall to a Unified Command which would suggest the city has equal ownership, mission, and resources as the sister cities and UDOT coming together.
Pilgrim explained that in a significant event Unified
By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
From an emergency response perspective, an incident is defined as an occurrence caused by either human or natural phenomena that requires response actions to prevent or minimize loss of life or damage to property and/or the environment. The SLC Riots in 2020 counted as an incident requiring emergency response. (Tara
Command would bring together all entities with interest and responsibility together dynamically to respond. The Incident Commander would ultimately be in charge but could delegate command when needed. Under which, the chief elected officials would have their local authority.
“This coordination brings all partners to the table to collaborate on everything including the communication going out,” Pilgrim said.
Behunin asked the councilmembers what their key role(s) would be in responding to such an incident. Councilmember Suzanne Hyland mentioned the benefits of the local jurisdiction knowing how their own infrastructure is laid out.
“I think a lot of residents know the needs of other residents for example knowing someone who is not physically able where the need assistance,” said Councilmember Shawn Newell.
“I see my role as communicating to the public and managing any panic,” said Councilmember Ellen Birrell.
Pilgrim explained what the process would be for gathering essentially information and how important it would be for the councilmembers to follow the communication guidance. Through the joint-information system, all of the public information officers (PIOs) would monitor, gather and vet information across all of the levels. They would then disseminate common messaging to ensure everyone was sharing the same information.
“We are careful with what we communicate when, and how much we share,” Pilgrim said. “We don’t want another incident within an incident that takes away from getting back to normal.”
Behunin recommended that each of the councilmembers be familiar with the city’s emergency management plan. City hazards within each of the individual districts should be known, along with the capabilities and restrictions those hazards present.
“Being here and having this discussion shows that you are interested in planning for preparedness to best recover when needed. Invest in an emergency manager and in their training,” Behunin recommended.
Brenneman took the opportunity to review where the city is currently lacking within their own emergency response plan and asked for the city council to consider some additional elements to plan and budget for.
“There’s no place within the city to stage debris in an emergency. We can’t just take it to the dump,” Brenneman said.
He explained the anticipated debris from an emergency in-
cident within the city community alone would near the size of a Brighton High School footprint.
Behunin recounted that the windstorm in 2020 alone presented challenges for debris removal at even the county level. They had to coordinate between Weber, Davis and Salt Lake counties.
The CHPD is also working to coordinate agreements with the local schools and churches to have contracts to provide short-term shelters in the event of necessary evacuations. These facilities could only be used as short-term shelters as they don’t provide hygiene needs, like showers, and they wouldn’t want their day-to-day operations to be disrupted.
“We don’t have a mass messaging system,” Brenneman added. “These are programs that can blast out to cell phones. I would like to push for that,”
He explained that in an event where power and communication lines go down, there’s minimal ways for communications to reach residents. Reverse 911 would only work minimally because it requires either a landline or for the cell phone to be registered with VECC (Valley Emergency Communications Center).
Brenneman recounted that the average buy-in for these mass-communication programs (which would work by identified cell phone towers in the area that can get messaging out), is around $30,000 of initial investment with additional annual costs. l
Behunin/Salt Lake County’s Emergency Management)
Based on the National Response Framework tenets, this is the framework for how emergency response incidents are responded to locally. (Tara Behunin/Salt Lake County’s Emergency Management)
Emergency Operations Centers are physical or virtual locations where staff, stakeholders and partners gather to provide support for an incident. (Tara Behunin/Salt Lake County’s Emergency Management)
Planning Commission recommends form-based code to be adopted in Cottonwood Heights
By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
TheCottonwood Heights Planning Commissioners have been working with city staff to draft a form-based code since 2020. After an open house to gather community feedback from residents and property owners in March inspired revisions to many iterations of a form-based code draft, the 100-page document was finally ready for review. The commission unanimously recommended approval to the city council on June 5. The commission then met with the city council to discuss formbased code in a joint meeting on Oct. 29. They decided that form-based code will be further considered.
The city councilmembers voiced their concerns about a handful of items throughout the drafted form-based code. They will be planning to sit down with city staff to have them walk through their questions and concerns.
“I want to meet with my council colleagues to hear their perspectives,” said Councilmember Ellen Birrell. “We all want to sit down and understand.”
As this was one of the first times the planning commission and city council was able to sit down all together since the commission’s recommended approval, the city council asked each of the commissioners to walk them through how they got to certain wordings and concepts within the form-based code draft.
“I’m struggling to understand how this form-based code applies to suburban lifestyle,” said Councilmember Suzanne Hyland. “It is based in new urbanism and is designed to be applied to densely-populated cities.”
She also mentioned the incongruity with how greatly Cottonwood Heights has changed since form-based code was first sought after; referencing how the Ikon Pass and pandemic has brought more numbers of visitors to the city.
Birrell recapped that form-based code was developed as a “way to promote against the negative impacts of suburban sprawl. Our neighborhoods are fearful of overdevelopment and higher density.”
“I think we need to look at our objectives and determine what we want as a city now,”
Hyland said.
She opened the discussion between the city’s commissioners and councilmembers around about the development and implementation of form-based with three questions: What are our objectives? Does form-based code support these objectives? How is it that this urban solution can be overlaid onto our suburban city?
“OK! That’s easy,” laughed Mayor Mike Weichers, realizing the scope of the conversation.
“We have little control over particular types of development with the city to have a particular feel,” said Planning Commission Chair Dan Mills. “This has the potential to make things a little more towards what we want to see. We can shape this however we want and make it more palatable to meet our needs.”
Quickly, common concerns related to continual development overtook the conversation. Councilmembers and commissioners brought up concerns related to the vision/character of the city, new development, remodeling businesses, resident/commuter/travel behavior, onsite parking, building/development height, setbacks, transit opportunities and disparate districts.
“It’s the wild wild West where developers can turn wherever into whatever. Developers would like to know what the city would like to see,” Mills summarized.
Councilmember Matthew Holton reiterated the benefit of form-based code as “to streamline processes for development and having one vision to help not go through an onerous process for a vision.”
However, based on what was current drafted at the time, he questioned if form-based code was being used as a tool intended to change certain public behavior.
Hyland chimed in with an example. “There are no minimum parking stalls for commercial areas. There are requirements for bike parking. There are mandates for EV charging stations. That does seem to be changing a certain behavior.”
“The last thing you want to do is limit parking so everyone feels like they can come
from wherever, but people need to feel like they can still walk,” Weichers said.
“…market and site design will drive that,” said Community and Economic Development Director Mike Johnson. “Developers won’t have buildings that won’t support parking.”
Johnson referenced the recent closure of Even Stevens along 1346 Fort Union Boulevard as an example of what can happen when businesses develop without enough available parking.
Synthesizing what he had heard so far, Planning Commissioner Mike Shelton questioned if the sticking points were related to planning mechanisms or standards. If everyone in the room could agree to specific development standards, would they want the PDD (Planned Development District) or form-based code to be the mechanism for those standards?
“Parking was a significant problem for me,” Planning Commission Vice Chair Lucy Anderson said weaving multiple points of the previous conversation together. “Form-based code is a big change of mindset. I’m very comfortable with how the form-based code defines parking and working with businesses moving forward. That’s why I voted for the recommendation.”
Johnson overviewed a parking table pre-
viously discussed by the planning commission, where property owners would have shared parking agreements to make parking more efficient, with the benefit of parking credits.
“It’s already working in informal business partnerships, and we should memorialize it with at a table like this,” Mills said.
Hyland asked if it would be possible to consider implementing and working through an example project before finalizing an entire form-based code for the city in perpetuity.
Johnson noted the purpose(s) of the city adapting form-based code would be to meet the visions in various master plans like the Parks, Trails and Open Space Master Plan and to implement in specific plans like the Fort Union Boulevard Master Plan.
“We would suggest a demonstration with one project with the Town Center area and a residential transition area like an office form district you see today, as pilot cases,” Johnson said.
To learn more about the drafting of formbased code within Cottonwood Heights, visit the “Form-Based Code” page on the city’s website by clicking on the “City Services” tab, navigating to the “Community Development” area, and visiting the last item on the list: www. cottonwoodheights.utah.gov/city-services/ l
This image shows the form-based code boundary, with the three focus areas of Union Park, Highland Drive and 2300 East. (Mike Johnson/Cottonwood Heights) Shared-use parking
form-based code for Cottonwood Heights. (Mike Johnson/Cottonwood Heights)
Ladies Take the Lead with Experience, Passion and Purpose at CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospitals
“Ido this work for my father, for families like ours, and ultimately, for the glory of God,” said Martha Boutsikakis Gamble, Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) at Holy Cross Hospital - West Valley and registered nurse for over 20 years.
For many, a career in healthcare is more of a calling - a decision made that was shaped by past experiences with loved ones, or even personal health scares of their own. This type of desire to care for others and passion to pursue a career in healthcare rings especially true for the ladies who are taking the lead at our CommonSpirit Health Holy Cross Hospitals in West Jordan and West Valley City.
Martha was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, to immigrant parents from Crete, Greece. While her parents spoke conversational English, her role as the eldest child often involved translating for them in settings where language wasn’t necessarily the barrier but rather, cultural understanding wasthis included translating at her dad’s appointments with his dietitian.
“When I was only about 11 or 12 years old, my father was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes,” said Martha. “It quickly became clear during his appointments that the meal recommendations we were receiving didn’t align with the food we grew up eating, nor did they consider the cultural context of our meals.”
In an attempt to adapt to the dietitian’s recommendations, the meals Martha and her family ate were repetitive… for nearly a decade.
“These early experiences fostered in me a calling—not only to serve but to advocate for
communities like mine, where language and culture can create unseen barriers to quality healthcare,” said Martha.
For Christine McSweeney, President of Holy Cross Hospitals - Jordan Valley and West Valley, her path to healthcare leadership began as a passion to explore the science behind nutrition and how to properly fuel our bodies.
“I’m a science nerd at heart,” said Christine. “I get excited about seeing people and myself thrive and improve through proper nutrition and care”
Christine’s career began at Banner Health in Arizona where she was a clinical dietitian. Over the course of 20 years, Christine climbed the ranks to eventually serve as Chief Operating Officer of a large academic center in downtown Phoenix before she joined the CommonSpirit Health leadership team five years ago, stepping into her current President role in 2023.
“My experience here in Utah has been like no other. It is full of neighbors helping neighbors, strong family values, amazing outdoor beauty and a true haven for healthy lifestyles. This way of living and thinking really brings me back to my roots as a dietitian” said Christine. “In addition, it certainly doesn’t hurt that the people we have working for CommonSpirit in the Greater Salt Lake market are loyal, dedicated and lean into our mission with their values first!”
Katie Flores, CNO at Holy Cross HospitalMountain Point and Interim CNO at Holy Cross Hospital - Jordan Valley, kicked off her healthcare
career in 2001 as a registered nurse - initially caring for patients at the bedside in Med/Surg and in the Emergency Department.
Over the years, Katie transitioned into leadership roles and has been serving as CNO for the last 10 years. A passionate caregiver, Katie’s background actually started with a dream to work in broadcast media… but that quickly changed.
“I realized early on that broadcast wasn’t the right fit for me - I felt a lack of connection and fulfillment so I pursued a career that would allow me to make a meaningful impact on others,” said Katie. “After going through some personal life experiences that led me to seek healthcare myself, I decided to make a change. I went back to school to pursue a career in healthcare—one that I could feel passionate about every day and truly connect with on a deeper level.”
Though different backgrounds and experiences fuel this leadership team’s passion to do what they do every day, Christine shared that the common thread between them all is, “This team of women lead with strength, confidence, curiosity, determination and heart…. it is present in everything we do and apparent in the quality of care our hospitals provide. I cannot wait to see all we continue to accomplish, together.”
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.
Learn more about the services, care providers and missiondriven work of the Holy Cross hospitals and CommonSpirit Health at www.holycrossutah.org.
poi had a season-ending injury and then two games later second-string senior quarterback Alex Degroot is likewise counted out for the season just before the final game of the season the rematch between West and Brighton for the Region 6 championship.
This year, the championship game against undefeated West would be fought on a warm October night in the comfort of Brighton’s Freestone Field. Brighton tapped JV QB sophomore Preston Ferran to step up for the offense. With an injury-riddled offense, head coach Casey Sutera had to put the region championship on the defense. “We knew our defense was going to hold strong, it’s kind of been the strength of our team and we just had to kind of hang tight on that and just trust that they were going to keep getting stops,” Sutera said.
That defensive strategy held the reigning region champion offense scoreless. West’s defense scored the only West points on a first quarter pick-six interception. That was followed by what would become the game saving blocked extra point by Beau LaFleur who played offense, defense and special teams. Brighton moved RB Mason Haertel to the QB position and for the next 32 offense plays, Brighton shunned the pass in favor of Haertel’s strength: running.
“I just did the best I can do. I just tried to go out there and be confident, don’t scare
defense strategy that won the West championship game turned out to be ill fated. Haertel was back at QB with 40 scoreless runs. The Titans held a 14-0 lead with a mere eight minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. It appeared that the sole loss of the 10-1 season wouldn’t be avenged. The Brighton coaching staff made the critical decision to abandon the run game, insert third-string QB Ferran and try an air attack. “We were just trying to beat them up physically the whole game, and then when they got up 14, we were like screw it, let’s go score, so we just came out throwing,” Ferran said.
anyone, put the team on my shoulders and keep running the rock,” Haertel said. He broke away late in the second quarter for a 71-yard touchdown sprint. Senior Thomas Sorenson kicked the extra point which was the last score of the game - Brighton hit its region championship goal with a defensive 7-6 win.
The “road to Rice Eccles” was equally fraught with obstacles, adversity and long odds. The Bengals got more time to integrate their third-string JV quarterback in the first rounds of the 5A state playoffs only to be matched up with nemesis Olympus in the quarterfinals--the final step before the promise of playing in Rice-Eccles Stadium. The
The motivated Bengals scored 17 unanswered points in the final eight minutes to win the game 17-14. Ferran came alive throwing to Slade Taylor for 46 yards of pass yardage and Sam Storr for 25 pass gains before handing it off to LaFleur for a rushing touchdown for the first Brighton score with 6:27 left in the game. LaFleur moved to defense and helped hold Olympus to a critical three-and-out and out series. Ferran was then given the opportunity to complete the unlikely comeback with a seven-point deficit and four minutes. This time his target was senior wide receiver Cash Gay who fielded three catches for 51 yards. Haertel punched in his 18th touchdown this season to seal the comeback. “That’s a great job by a sophomore quarterback that we put in a position to have to go win the game and do it when they knew we were going to have to throw. Like, that’s a big time effort by him,” Sutera said.
The crowd stunned, the game seemed destined for an overtime conclusion. Yet the football changed possession five more times in the last 3:32 minutes. The climax of the highlight-rich game came with 6.2 seconds left in the game and the Bengals setting up for a 36-yard field goal by Sorenson. He had missed a 32-yard attempt in the first quarter. With the trip to the semifinals at Rice-Eccles on the line, Sorenson kicked a line drive that hit the upright and fell scoreless. However, Olympus was called for an offsides penalty which gave Sorenson another shot - this time from the 31-yard line. “I’m just thinking I got it, I’ve got it now, and so I just go back up there, keep my head down, follow through. I didn’t even see if it went in, just perfectly through and turnover,” Sorenson said.
“Our team this whole year, just resilient, toughness, adversity, like every single time they answer, and I’m just really proud of them. Can’t believe it man. Crazy. Then our Thomas Sorenson drills a kick. He’s been struggling. Drills the kick to win the game. Surreal,” Sutera said.
On Nov. 15, for the first time in 10 years, Brighton was back on the turf of Rice-Eccles Stadium to compete as a 5A final-four team. Brighton fell to Bountiful but not before senior standout Haertel scored his 19th season touchdown and solidified his place as 5A football’s most prolific scorer for 2024. And the team notched 11 wins, the most team wins since the 2004 team 20 years ago. l
Third-year football coach Casey Sutera at Rice Eccles Stadium. (Photo Fortodayphotography David Mayfield)
Public comment period open on UDOT’s Big Cottonwood traffic mitigation proposal
By Genevieve Vahl | g.vahl@mycityjournals.com
From Nov. 13 to Dec. 13, there is a public comment period open for the Big Cottonwood Canyon SR-190, Fort Union to Brighton UDOT proposal creating tolling and enhanced bus service to address wintertime traffic congestion. While concurrently conducting an environmental study to evaluate the impact of said proposal.
“UDOT is asking for public input on the preliminary purpose and need of the project, observations or concerns associated with existing traffic conditions, and the community and natural environment resources that should be evaluated in the study,” the Study Overview reads.
The environmental study will be prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requiring that federal agencies assess the environmental impact of their proposed action. Big Cottonwood Canyon’s traffic mitigation proposal and environmental study comes just a year after Little Cottonwood Canyon’s synonymous project started facing lawsuits for the dramatic oversight in the environmental impacts spelled out in the study versus the community’s accountability of what the proposal could actually do to the landscape, surrounding environments and what the community actually wants.
To begin traffic mitigation up Big Cottonwood Canyon, specifically during the peak winter months, the Utah Department of Transportation is proposing a five-pronged approach:
creating a mobility hub, enhancing bus service, improving existing bus stops, building resort bus depot stops and introducing tolling. UDOT is conducting the environmental study to evaluate the impact of these proposed facets.
The mobility hub will sit at the base of the gravel pit on Wasatch Boulevard. Eleven acres from the mine will become a centralized lot and parking structure.
“The study is looking at building a mobility hub which is a central location where riders can transfer from their personal vehicles to an enhanced bus service,” their Study Overview said.
A large problem with the current situation is that people already have to drive out of their way most of the time to get to the park and rides, and when they do get there, they run the risk of there being no parking spots available. Or the bus ghosts them because it is full. These were the most common problems heard at the public comment meeting held in person at Butler Elementary School in Cottonwood Heights on Nov. 13.
UDOT says their enhanced bus service would provide buses from the mobility hub every 5-10 minutes during peak winter months. While improving road conditions and existing mid-canyon bus stops for improved bus operations at Cardiff Fork, Spruces and Silver Fork trailheads. With hopes to better ADA accessibil-
ity at those stops. The resort bus stops proposed would be 5,000- to 7,000-square-foot enclosed waiting areas at Brighton and Solitude.
The tolling booths will be erected just before Solitude Entry 1 in order. According to officials with UDOT at the in-person public comment meeting, they recognize they do not want toll more public facing trailheads when “90% of eastbound traffic traveled to Solitude Entry 1 or above,” UDOT’s Study Overview material states. Not tolling the more general public for hiking or other recreation. Targeting the tolling at those using the canyon the most in the winter: resort goers. The toll would be fluctuating and not all the time, depending on the demand.
bility hub, and resort bus stops for Big and Little Cottonwood canyons.”
According to officials of the consulting team working with UDOT, the project is at least three years out. Currently, the project is in the scoping phase through the winter of 2024 finalizing the study’s purpose and need, the proposed tolling and transit concept with hearings and public comment period concurrently. The next phase, the Environmental Study, will go from winter 2024 to fall 2025 where action alternatives will be refined and analyzing the environmental impact. They will prepare the environmental document during this time with public hearings as well as another public comment period. The final decision to come winter 2025 will respond to public comments and revise the environmental analysis to issue a decision document. Then will begin the building of the infrastructure, if all goes well, of all said proposed factors of the five pronged approach.
The environmental study will evaluate the impact these proposed facets will have on the canyon and surrounding areas and watersheds. With over three million visitors a year to the Cottonwood Canyons, the projected population growth and tourism Utah is experiencing projects that travel times by 2050, with no action taken, will increase from 30 minutes downhill in the afternoon to over 49 minutes. In the mornings in 2050 with no action, they are projecting the morning queue length to reach 8,000 feet from the entrance of Big Cottonwood Canyon down Wasatch Boulevard essentially back to the highway. Increasing from 7,225 vehicles per day to 8,750. The road can only handle 1,0001,200 vehicles per hour per direction, which are markers already often reached at current peakhour traffic volumes, according to UDOT’s Study Overview.
This all to hopefully curb single passenger vehicle numbers up the canyon and to promote carpooling and public transportation use to mitigate the increasingly problematic traffic up Big Cottonwood Canyon during peak winter months.
One public comment left anonymously on a sticky note proposed running a road that is dedicated to buses from the mobility hub straight to the mouth of the canyon along the eastern edge of Wasatch Boulevard, buses never having to enter and exit on that main road. Another suggested having electric signs at the mobility hub like at the TRAX and FrontRunner stations, counting down the time for the next departure.
This project is a product of the Utah State Legislature Senate Bill 2 in 2023 that “directs UDOT to use certain legislature-allocated funds to provide enhanced bus service, tolling, a mo-
Whether you think these methods are suitable to the needs of the Wasatch Front, or you have your own ideas to add, expound on, critique of these proposals, leave a public comment. How you as the community sees this project, its benefits and shortcomings. Identify issues and environmental oversights to the study and proposal and submit feedback so UDOT can make community informed decisions. Public comments are the way for the community to have a say in how our infrastructure serves us. The comment period is open until Dec. 13. Leave your comment at udotinput.utah.gov/bccstudy. l
Phases of the environmental study laid out by UDOT. (Genevieve Vahl/City Journals)
Overlooking the gravel pit at the base of Big Cottonwood Canyon where the proposed mobility hub will take up 11 acres with a parking lot and structure for people to transfer from personal vehicle to the enhanced bus service up and down the canyon. (Genevieve Vahl/City Journals)
Angels from the realms of glory (better have their papers)
Near the twinkling Christmas trees, pine-scented candles and brightly-wrapped packages, most homes in Utah display a Nativity scene. It might be made with Star Wars characters or garden gnomes, but it usually includes wise men, shepherds, Mary and Joseph, and an angel hovering near Baby Jesus. If you have children, the crèche could also include stuffed dinosaurs and a Barbie.
It’s a peaceful tribute to the beginning of Jesus’s mission, right before the dastardly King Herod (threatened by the prophesied birth of a new king) proclaimed that every male child under 2 must be put to death. (I’ll bet he was a blast at holiday parties.)
Being warned by an angel, Mary and Joseph fled with toddler Jesus to Egypt where they lived for several years.
But what if the story had been different? What if the Holy Family arrived on Egypt’s border, where someone had built a big wall? What if the Egyptian border czar said, “Nah. We don’t like refugees. They ruin our economy. Go back where you came from.”?
The New Testament would be a lot shorter.
Utah has more than 300,000 refugees and immigrants living in the state; almost 9% of the population. Maybe we could
consider this percentage of immigrants a tithe offering where we dedicate ourselves to treating them with love and respect, and not actively try to evict them from the inn.
Refugees are survivors of wars, often fleeing for their lives, leaving everything behind, exactly like Jesus’s family. Immigrants want safety for their families and dream of American opportunities. Didn’t we learn in church we’re all children of God? Maybe I misunderstood.
Utah is a shining example of how to assist these populations. There are programs to help refugees get jobs, learn English, finish school and raise their families. Many immigrants own businesses, pay taxes and contribute to our healthy economy.
But a large faction of the United States agrees mass deportation is a great idea. We can have a country without immigrants or we can have a strong economy. We can’t have both.
Unfortunately, brotherly love doesn’t fit today’s immigration narrative which is that refugees are ruining the country. Words like “diversity” and “inclusion” have become MAGA kryptonite. Have we forgotten Jesus taught that loving each other was one of the greatest commandments? Was there a disclaimer I missed that excluded people who weren’t born in America?
If Jesus was here, he’d be flipping tables and fashioning cords into a whip. He would call us hypocrites for not showing compassion to those who are suffering. Instead, we offer harsh judgment, condemnation and close our communities to shelters. Who are we?
There’s a story of a family who was very hungry. The grandmother took a big cooking pot into the front yard, placed it over a fire, filled it with water and plunked a stone into the pot.
Neighbors asked what she was making. “Stone soup,” she replied. Soon, everyone wanted to add something to the soup. One person brought carrots, another brought chicken. Someone added pasta. Yet another brought spices and salt. In no time at all, they had a big pot of soup to share.
In many ways, society is breaking. Rules and common sense seem arbitrary.
People want to pick ingredients out of this huge melting pot of America, this pot of soup, as it were, and toss them away. Immigrants add flavor to our communities. They add variety and culture and spice. If you take out all the ingredients, you’re left with a pot of hot water and a heart of stone. l
