CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERS POSSIBLE E-TRANSPORTATION REGULATIONS
As the popularity of transportation via e-bike and electronic scooters is rising, so too are the accidents, injuries, and fatalities involving these e-alternatives. To the dismay of Cottonwood Heights Police Chief Robby Russo, it has become rather apparent to him that the state legislature will not be working to regulate electronic scooters and e-bikes (noting that there are currently more regulations on bikes than e-vehicles). Those regulations are being left to individual municipalities and cities.
“It would be wise for the city to have some sort of standard in place as the adoption rates go up,” said Councilmember Matthew Holton. “I would be in favor of going down the road of finding the most measured approach before we have to start taking them away.”
Bringing back this topic for the first council meeting of 2025, Russo shared some potential regulation items regarding e-bikes and electronic scooters within the city so he could begin to draft an ordinance. He mentioned that there are some cities out there already regulating these transportation e-vehicles. He looked to Las Vegas’s regulations as a model and Holladay’s draft revisions as well.
“I see riders without helmet and not obeying stop signals,” said Councilmember Suzanne Hyland. “That’s what I’m most concerned about.”
Russo mentioned he would like to include language within a city ordinance to prohibit operating these e-vehicles on sidewalks unless absolute necessary in such circumstances like crossings. He would also like to require audible signaling before passing as well.
Hyland questioned the safety of operating e-bikes and e-scooters on sidewalks versus roadways.
“There are municipalities that say you can only ride on sidewalks, and I think that’s a really bad idea.” Russo said.
By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
“A”chieving excellence: CommonSpirit hospitals recognized for steadfast commitment to patient safety
At CommonSpirit Health, the safety of our patients is our most important priority. We are honored to share that three of our hospitals along the Wasatch Front received an “A” grade for our commitment to patient safety in Fall 2024.
This recognition comes from The Leapfrog Group, an independent national nonprofit watchdog focused on patient safety. Leapfrog assigns an “A,” “B,” “C,” “D” or “F” grade to hospitals across the country based on over 30 performance measures reflecting errors, accidents, injuries and infections, as well as the systems hospitals have in place to prevent them.
CommonSpirit hospitals receiving an “A” for Fall 2024 include:
• CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley
• CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – Mountain Point
• CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – West Valley
We are proud of our physicians, nurses and all our caregivers for living our values of excellence, collaboration and compassion to ensure the safety of the patients in our care.
But our work isn’t done. Our vision of a healthier future for all calls us to continue to improve our delivery of compassionate, safe care to every patient, every time, in every care site across our CommonSpirit Health Mountain Region. Achieving that vision is our commitment to you.
CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – West Valley
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.
CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital Mountain Point
Learn more about the services, care providers and missiondriven work of the Holy Cross hospitals and CommonSpirit Health at www.holycrossutah.org.
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Furry fundraiser: Brighton students raise $1,400 to help homeless puppies
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Oneearly winter day, Brighton High students lined up during lunchtime to pay $1 for the chance to cuddle with a puppy for three minutes. The event provided a welcome break from the daily routine of school while also benefiting the puppies, who were brought in from Nuzzles & Co. and were in search of new homes.
The 30-minute fundraiser was organized by business club officers Amanda Orozco and Lauryn Swanson, who are both seniors at the school.
The event, which attracted 350 attendees, raised about $1,400 for the pet shelter. Orozco and Swanson, who are involved in the school’s business club, were supported by club members to make the event a success.
“We worked with Nuzzles & Co. because they were willing to bring in the puppies,” said club Vice President of Activities Orozco, adding the group also collaborated with the school administration and the Canyons school board to make the event possible. “We weren’t sure if students would be willing to pay $1, but some did it again and again. Someone even paid $5 just to do it once.”
The funds raised came not only from student donations, but also from local businesses, which donated items that were sold to the community with all proceeds earmarked for Nuzzles & Co., said Swanson, the club vice president of community service.
“We reached out to more than 100 companies and organizations in our community to support the event,” she said. “We set up those in a fundraising website with set prices and once people purchased them, they could come here to pick them up.”
Items ranged from tickets to local events to dog toys and shampoo.
Throughout the event, Orozco, Swanson and other business club members applied the skills they’ve developed through their classes and the business club, including money management, organization, problem-solving, time management, and communication.
Swanson took the lead on community outreach, working to secure donations and promote the event. They canvassed 200 homes as well as local businesses to put up fliers; they even reached out to an online artist who designed the event flier.
“It was a lot of fun actually putting what we learned
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toward an event we planned, but it was intense since it was a quick turnaround and it was during final exams,” Orozco said. “We both work, so I'd go to her house before school, then we'd go to school and work, then after work, she'd come over to my house until 11 p.m. Then, we’d do it again the next day and again and again. I also spent a lot of time conveying information between our principal and Josh Stasinos (Nuzzles’ development manager) and others to make sure everyone was on board. I was the bridge between everyone.”
On the day of the event, club members managed the logistics, including collecting money, explaining the rules, controlling the crowd, providing hand sanitizer, taking photos, and even selling pizza, with the profits going to the shelter.
Nuzzles & Co. also took the opportunity to educate attendees about the dogs’ origins, sharing they were rescued from the Ute Reservation and Navajo Nation, where they had been living among a population of 500,000 homeless dogs, according to Orozco.
Orozco and Swanson plan to write a 20-page report about the project, which they will submit for the DECA state competition Feb. 21-22. DECA is an organization that pre-
pares students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, management and entrepreneurship. The report will detail the idea, preparation and execution of the event. The pair also will present a PowerPoint to highlight the impact of their project.
Initially, Orozco and Swanson brainstormed several ideas for a community impact project, but ultimately decided helping a pet shelter would be a fun and meaningful choice.
“We liked the idea to help a pet shelter because it sounded fun, but we’re still doing business, math, accounting, marketing and all the organizational skills. The more we investigated it, the more we thought this is something we can do to help our community,” Swanson said. “My favorite part was seeing it happen, having it come to life and be successful.”
Despite the long hours and hard work, Orozco also is proud of the outcome.
“The money is going to the dogs’ rehabilitation and adoption, which covers their vaccines, microchipping, food and everything,” she explained. “It costs them about $900 from the moment they take a dog in until it’s adopted. So, we rescued a dog and one-half with the money we raised.” l
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Brighton business club officers Amanda Orozco and Lauryn Swanson led a fundraiser which raised $1,400 to help rescued puppies at Nuzzles & Co. (Photo courtesy of Brighton High business club)
With the help of Nuzzles & Co. Development Manager Josh Stasinos, Brighton High students and faculty could pet and cuddle puppies by donating $1; the money was earmarked to help the shelter. (Photo courtesy of Brighton High business club)
Career ready: Young Professionals Summit preps Canyons students for the workforce
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Hillcrest High junior Allisson Guerrero knows the importance of preparing for a job interview.
At the recent Canyons School District’s Young Professionals Summit, she learned essential tips from industry professionals: “what to do, what not to do, what to wear, how to ask questions to the employer, to always make sure to email them after your interview, and it’s OK to include high school activities on the resume that relate to the job and highlight them during the interview.”
More than 100 students from Canyons’ five comprehensive high schools attended the summit, featuring keynote speaker entrepreneur Bryce Smith from Beacon Medical Products. Students participated in workshops on professionalism with Sarah Simpson from the Utah Transit Authority, communication skills with Alyssa Olsen from Cyprus Credit Union, and interview techniques with Shaylee Pulham and Shari Laney from Prestige Financial Services.
Guerrero found the experience valuable.
“It was a good experience and very hands-on,” she said. “It was good being able to mix in with students for the other schools and learn to ask questions and network. I found the interview tips to be the helpful. I learned how to talk professionally with someone older than me and questions I need to be prepared for.”
The summit originated from a spring
breakfast with Canyons’ work-based learning department’s business partners, said Janet Jefferson, Alta High’s work-based learning coordinator.
“We asked them, as educators, ‘What are some skills you feel students need more of as they move into the workforce?’” she said. “They came up with being able to interview well and present themselves professionally, having communication skills, working as a team and networking.”
These skills formed the foundation of the summit, with professionals leading breakout sessions to help students build confidence for their future careers.
The keynote speaker is an Alta alumnus and former aerospace engineer; he shared insights from his transition into the medical device industry.
“Bryce talked about the root of inspire, which comes from the Latin words ‘to breathe into’ to motivate students to be successful,” Jefferson said.
Smith shared the acronym of CPR — creativity, perception and reliability — as qualities essential for success.
“He said the C is to be creative and innovative, to look for ways to solve problems in a creative way,” Jefferson said. “Then, the P to be perceptive, to notice details, to pay attention to what's going on, to perceive what needs to be done and do it. The R is to be reliable, to be somebody people can count on, and to do what needs to be done and what you've been assigned to do.”
Hillcrest junior Prajeet Verma appreciated the message.
“His speech was essentially telling us to trust in ourselves and to be curious,” he said. “Don't let other people tell you what is a good or isn't a good idea.”
Guerrero appreciated hearing how Smith was able to “switch careers and still love what he’s doing.”
Verma said many of the workshops focused on effective communication and presenting themselves with confidence and competence, while also demonstrating a willingness to learn.
“We learned communication techniques, both verbal and nonverbal, such as specific hand gestures. We learned how to introduce ourselves, how to give an elevator pitch, how to find the most important person in the room. We practiced networking through a bingo game where we had to introduce ourselves and ask each other questions so we couldn’t be shy. We went over how to dress to impress and interview questions like, ‘tell me about yourself’ and ‘how do you deal with conflict in your team’ and some commonly asked questions which are difficult to answer, but they led us in simple responses,” he said.
Cher Burbank, Hillcrest’s work-based learning coordinator, noted the skills the students learned could be applied immediately.
“I noticed a lot of students who were going to be in FBLA competition the next week asked questions which they could
apply when they communicate or present,” she said. “Some of the questions they were asking fell in line with that. They said, ‘OK, I’m presenting. How should I stand? Should I do this or that? How much is too many hand motions?’ They got in-depth answers and skills for them to apply. They learned how to emphasize a point when they're presenting, and some students said they were going to practice it for when they give presentations.”
Burbank believes students now will have more effective communication and professionalism.
“This was a good opportunity for them to hear from our community business partners what they need to know and to practice it. I hope they gained insight from these industry partners that may give them a different edge, a skill, professionalism, something that might stand out, that they learned, something they could apply when they communicate or network,” she said.
Canyons Career and Technical Education Director Janet Goble, who hopes to offer the summit again next year, can see the benefit to the high school students.
“I hope our students took to heart the presenters’ messages, whether it was your elevator speech, how to network, how to talk to people, how to communicate better,” she said. “All are ways to help them become more successful.” l
Canyons School District high school students interact with one another while learning how to network and communicate with others through a bingo game at the recent Young Professionals Summit. (Cher Burbank/Hillcrest High)
High school students learn about communication skills from Cyprus Credit Union’s Alyssa Olsen during Canyons School District’s recent Young Professionals Summit. (Cher Burbank/Hillcrest High)
From struggles to success: Entrada helps adults achieve their dreams
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
MattJungert once felt embarrassed to admit to his church priest, Father Anthony Savas, he had not graduated high school.
“It was a sore spot, and I was ashamed I hadn’t earned it, but I learned to face it and, not let it hold me back,” he said. “It got brought up when Father Anthony asked if I would consider becoming a deacon and to become a deacon I needed to have a bachelor's degree.”
Jungert had attended West Jordan High and later Valley High, but his time in school was marked by frequent absences.
“I was just a hard-headed teenager and hung out with some kids I shouldn't have,” he said.
After turning 18, Jungert stayed in Salt Lake City while his parents moved, working various jobs from Pizza Hut to working in warehouses living paycheck to paycheck. For the past 15 years, he has driven trucks, hauling oil to refineries, which offered more stability, but the thought of returning to school lingered.
Father Anthony’s encouragement led Jungert to pursue his GED through Entrada Adult High School.
“I was helping him light the candles for the service that night when he asked me, ‘Is becoming a deacon something you'd want to pursue?’ I said, ‘Yes,’” Jungert said. “I remember how beautiful the candles were around the altar. That’s when I started taking a computer science class at Entrada. Soon after, Mark (Mataya, Entrada’s adult education director) called me into his office. He took the time to talk with me about my plan, and I learned that getting my GED would be a better path than trying for a diploma. So, I completed packets in math, history and social studies and took the tests.”
Six months later, at the age of 39 and 21 years after his classmates graduated, Jungert spoke at Entrada’s commencement about his journey.
“There’s an energy at Entrada; the teachers want people to succeed. One teacher, David Dau, gave me some tips for the first test. When I passed, I went back and told him; he was so excited for me. Having the support of David and Mark really helps. They love their jobs, and it shows,” Jungert said.
Now, he is pursuing a computer science degree at Western Governors University with his next step, enter the diaconate program.
Jungert is just one student who found success at Entrada. The high school’s enrollment has surged in recent years, upward of 800 students, and graduates about 180 each year, driven by high demand for both Entrada and its sister school, Diamond Ridge High. The two schools moved to the former Bell View Elementary School more than two years ago to accommodate their growing student body.
This school year, Entrada was recognized as the state’s “Best All-Around Adult Education Program” by the Utah State Board of Education.
Mataya credits the school’s success to several factors, including the establishment of a mental health wellness program, apprenticeship partnerships and the implementation of personalized competency-based learning. This teaching strategy allows students to learn at their own pace while still participating in a traditional classroom environment.
Teachers Rachael Coleman and Lynn Gutzwiller team teach the course and emphasize students can start at their current skill level and focus on gaps in their knowledge, rather than repeating what they already know.
“Our students come from diverse backgrounds, with varying skills and knowledge, so we don’t start from scratch with every student,” Coleman explained. “We tailor our teaching to meet students where they are so it’s an efficient way to help them progress.”
Mataya says Entrada's hybrid approach, blending tradi-
tional and personalized learning, has been highly effective.
“When you walk into their classroom, it’s activity central. Students have the freedom to focus on what they need to learn, and they understand the expectations. They know how to push themselves to reach their goals. When they see working hard allows them to finish faster and move on with life, it becomes more rewarding,” he said. “They’re in control of their learning pace, not looking for ways to avoid work, but looking for what helps them in life—whether it’s getting a job or advancing their education. There’s a real energy in the room, an authentic, hopeful kind of learning.”
Mataya said not all of Entrada’s 200 classes use the same approach, but personalized competency-based learning has shown impressive results. While about two-thirds of students are enrolled in traditional classes, the remaining students in the competency-based classes tend to achieve “probably four times as much, in terms of credit they earn.”
“Last year, five of our classes adopted this model; this year, it’s up to 15,” he said. “It’s intensive, and not every student is ready for that level of challenge, but for those who are, it makes a big difference.”
Gutzwiller said the goal is to create a hybrid class with both teacher-directed and hands-on elements.
“The course is designed to let students move from one skill to the next, and as instructors, we need to support them along the way. We work one-on-one or in small groups, meeting each student and it shifts the teacher-student relationship to more of an advocacy role,” she said. “Many of our students come in feeling beaten down. To see them believe in themselves is powerful.”
Mataya emphasized the goal is to guide students in their own learning journeys.
“We want to empower them, whether they’re in a competency-based or traditional class,” he said.
That philosophy resonates with Steve Wrigley, a former Canyons school board member who has been teaching at Entrada for three years. In his U.S. Government and Citizenship class, he encourages students to advocate for their own learning.
“We discuss issues around a topic, and at the end of class, I ask them, ‘What did you learn, and how can you apply it to your life? What’s important to you? Give me three things in your community that need to be addressed, and how would you do it?’” he said.
While the questions may seem simple, Wrigley admits they can be tough for students.
“Sometimes, the students don’t grasp the full magnitude of these issues. I have students tell me they’ve learned they need to pay more attention to their community,” he said. “Often, they’ve felt unheard in high school, so when I invite a school administrator or even the mayor of Sandy to speak, they’re surprised. They realize they have a voice, a vote, and the ability to make a difference.”
Last spring, Sandy Mayor Monica Zoltanski visited his class, along with Canyons School District Director of High Schools Tom Sherwood. Wrigley also has hosted city councilmembers and the district’s superintendent.
“The mayor told them she was no different than they are,” Wrigley said. “She was advocating for Dimple Dell, and realized she could make a difference in government. The students were impressed she came, shook their hands and answered their questions.”
During a discussion with Sherwood on topics ranging from transportation to mental health, the students were invited to email their suggestions and concerns.
“He promised to take their feedback back to share with others,” Wrigley said. “It showed the students that their voices matter.”
His class covers diverse issues such as naturalization, voting, homelessness and the environment, but he’s aware many students don’t learn in a traditional way.
“I always ask, ‘Here’s the subject—how does it relate to you?’” Wrigley said. “Our goal is for students to believe in themselves, so they see they can succeed. Every teacher here wants these students to succeed. Our future depends on them.” l
Entrada graduate Matt Jungert, seen here with his wife, Gretchen, and his daughter, Isabel, spoke about educational journey during his school’s commencement address. (Photo courtesy of Matt Jungert)
Local author takes Corner Canyon and Butler book clubs behind the scenes of her writing process
Corner Canyon sophomore Glory Weaver sat with her friends eagerly awaiting the arrival of local author Ally Braithwaite Condie at the high school’s book club. Weaver had read Condie’s book, “The Only Girl in Town,” in preparation for the event.
“I’m excited to meet her; I really like her style of writing,” she said. “I like how this book flashes between now and before to include the main character’s back story.”
Many of the other 85 members of Corner Canyon's book club had also read Condie’s “Matched” series, which was a No. 1 New York Times bestseller, as well as her novel “Summerlost,” and Edgar Award Finalist, honoring the best in mystery fiction.
The Cedar City-born author, who writes young adult fiction, has also published adult books and a picture book. In addition to her writing, Condie founded the WriteOut Foundation, which runs a writing camp, and serves on the Yallwest Board, which aims to make books more accessible to children.
Students from both Corner Canyon and Butler Middle School filled the atrium, eagerly anticipating what Condie would share. However, they had to wait another week when a family emergency delayed her visit.
Corner Canyon librarian Maria Jones explained that the 50 students who returned were rewarded for their patience with Condie’s presentation, which included a question-and-answer session. Condie also took time to sign their books. To ensure that students from Butler Middle didn’t miss out, Condie held a second presentation at the school in Cottonwood Heights.
Condie’s writing process is unconventional compared to some other authors. She doesn’t begin her novels with an outline.
“She said she doesn't really outline because her characters aren't developed yet,” Jones said. “The one time she submitted an outline to a publisher, she never wrote the book because she didn't like the feel of it.”
Condie began writing as a youth, starting with a journal and later collecting her poetry. After graduating from college, she taught high school English but stopped that career to raise her four children. Working as a sorority mom, she set a goal to write 1,000 words per day, inspired by local author Shannon Hale.
“When that didn't work out, she set it at 500, and that worked for her and she still keeps to that goal, six days per week,” Jones said. “She made the time to write. She said, ‘If I don’t have time now and I'm busy, I'll never write.’ So, she just started.”
Condie draws inspiration from the world around her.
“She takes breaks while she writes by walking and seeing the world. She said she
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
may still think about the characters, but she isn’t staring at a screen. It helps her develop where her characters are, what they would do in certain situations, or how they interact with other things,” she said.
Condie told the group “The Only Girl in Town” was inspired by the short story, “There Will Come Soft Rains” by Ray Bradbury.
“It's about the house that still lives even though the people are gone after a nuclear bomb, much like the main character realizes she’s all alone without people in her world,” Jones said.
When students asked about the location for the cliff-jumping scenes in “The Only Girl in Town,” Condie explained that they were based on two real places: one near Cedar City, where she grew up, and another in Ithaca, New York, where she lived later.
“She shared photos of both places,” Jones said, adding that the use of varying fonts, gray tones, and different chapter lengths was intentional to reflect the different time periods in the story.
At the novel’s conclusion, Condie purposely left it up to readers to decide whether the ending was a work of science fiction or an allegory about depression and mental health.
“She wanted it to be a very open in the conclusion. Some students liked that, and some didn’t, but it sparked a lot of discussion,” Jones said.
The topic of the love triangle in “Matched” came up during the question-and-answer period.
“One student asked if she had to pick one of them, which would she choose. She said she put half of her then husband's good qualities in one character and the other half of his good qualities in the other character. So as she was writing, she didn't even know which one she the main character was going to pick until halfway through the third book, but she would only answer, ‘with all the things that had happened, there was only like, one’ since she didn’t want to spoil the ending for those who haven’t read her series yet,” Jones said.
When discussing “Summerlost,” a student asked if the book was intended to be a mystery.
“She always knew it was a mystery, but the publisher said it isn't. Then it won an award for middle grade mystery,” she said.
Condie also revealed that the photo of her grandmother’s house featured on the back of the book’s new cover was one she provided.
When asked which of her books was her favorite to write, Condie shared that her favorite was the picture book “Here,” because she wrote the text, and then, it was
“beautifully illustrated.”
“She has a second picture book, ‘There’ due out next fall,” Jones said, adding that Condie also is working with Dan Santat on a project and is writing an adult mystery due out next spring.
Corner Canyon’s book club has hosted several authors in recent years, including Neil Shusterman, Erin Stevenson, Tricia Levenseller, Emily Inouye Huey, and Tiffany Rosenhan. Jones is also planning to invite Draper author Lisa Tolk to share her book “Eden” this spring.
Earlier in the school year, Eastmont teacher Mark Gregson shared his book, “Sky’s End” and discussed the writing and editing process.
Each month, students in the club receives a free copy of the book they read and can participate in monthly discussions.
Butler Middle teacher librarian Jen Van
Haaften said the 25 students in their eighthgrade book club appreciated the engagement and intensity of “The Only Girl in Town.”
“It's difficult to find clean books that are intense and suspenseful, but this one was one we could read and keep the kids engaged,” she said. “They liked the short chapters whether it’s a conversation with the therapist, or text messages, or a journal. The varied format made it a fast-paced story.”
The Butler book club reads seven books per school year and discusses them during their lunchtime.
“We try to read different genres and books more current, so they capture the students’ interest and attention,” Van Haaften said. “We're wanting these kids to engage in reading and change the perception of themselves. We want them to like and find joy in reading.” l
Local author Ally Condie signs books for Corner Canyon High book club members after she shared insights in her writing process. (Maria Jones/Corner Canyon High)
Brighton High students gain insight from career day
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Former professional linebacker Bryan Kehl recently shared powerful messages with Brighton High students during their career day, encouraging them to keep an open mind, find what excites them, and transform that passion into a career.
He also emphasized the importance of hard work in achieving success.
“He told them the first ingredient you need for anything — in sports, academics, music, theatre — is to do the hard work,” Brighton High work-based learning coordinator Eileen Kasteler said. “Kehl wasn't always the best, but he worked harder than others who were better than he was and he became better. The second ingredient (he said) is to make mistakes faster, so you can learn from them and move forward. Don't be afraid of mistakes — avoiding them will slow down your success.”
Kasteler said the Brighton alumnus was able to connect with students through his own experiences. Kehl shared even after playing in the NFL, he still had to work hard. He spoke about the risks he took when becoming a business owner, a decision which gave him flexibility, but also the realization that failure could lead to financial loss.
“He openly shared his career path,
including both successes and setbacks, giving students an honest view. I think his encouragement helped them imagine all the possibilities that are out there and gave them confidence about choosing a career,” she said.
The career day, organized by the student business club with Kasteler’s assistance, was spread out over several days. Freshmen and sophomores learned from Kehl, while older students attended sessions with various professionals, including a pilot, an actor, a construction project manager and a mechanical engineer.
Entrepreneur Mike Deaver spoke to another group of students, offering advice based on his own experiences.
“What I see in my career is people are here to help you succeed,” he said. “We're here to help our partners; they say, ‘teamwork makes the dream work.’ If you haven't found a team, reach out to people to help you find that team.”
Deaver encouraged students to think about their futures beyond high school.
“It’s the time to start thinking broadly about your future. When I was in high school and in college, I knew I wanted to be the guy behind the scenes who was helping sports, politics and entertainment. So,
I started working to make my team, and I feel super blessed I’ve been able to be in that field. But think beyond your school; there's a whole big outside world out there
you can participate in and be connected.” He also advised student to “pick up every piece of experience, every credential, every certificate, anything and every-
UFSA board approves 23% tax increase in 2025
By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com
Unified Fire Service Area board members voted in a public meeting in December to approve a proposed tax increase for 2025. The 23% tax increase would yield $11,473,218 in revenue, according to officials.
The increase will be implemented in two parts, with the first part of the increase – referred to as the second phase of the 2024 increase – costing an estimated $5,088,123, according to the Unified Fire Service Area.
The second part of the proposed increase would address additional staffing in Kearns and Eagle Mountain, and is estimated to cost $6,385,095, according to UFSA.
“Most of the increase we’re talking about here is going to the firefighters,” Board member and Millcreek Mayor Jeff Silvestrini said at the meeting. “If we don’t pay competitive wages, they’ll go somewhere else and we’ll be even more short-staffed than we already are.”
With the 2025 tax increase being approved, the annual tax would increase from $405.35 to $498.58 for residential properties, and from $737.00 to $906.50 for commercial properties. Before 2024, the last UFSA tax increases were in 2008 and 2018.
The 2025 tax increase would make a monthly difference of $7.77 (for an annual
difference of $93.23) and a monthly difference of $14.13 for commercial properties (or an annual difference of $169.51), according to the UFSA.
Many board members acknowledged that their own families would feel the effects
of the increase, but they said property taxes are the only revenue for the UFSA.
“This is not an organization that is abusing the system,” Board member Kathleen Bailey of Copperton told residents after the public comment period. “This is not being
done frivolously.”
The proposed tax increase would be used to address the cost of service, upgrade fire stations, add staff members and maintain a minimum fund balance, UFSA said.
The UFSA serves 12 jurisdictions: Alta, Brighton, Eagle Mountain, Emigration Canyon, Kearns, Magna, Millcreek, Taylorsville, White City and unincorporated Salt Lake County.
“UFSA’s primary source of income is property taxes which are collected from property owners located within UFSA boundaries,” UFSA explained.
UFSA is a “taxing entity that uses collected taxes to go directly toward fire service costs,” according to the Unified Fire Service Area. UFSA said it uses property taxes to pay its member fee to Unified Fire Authority, and that fee “is what pays for the actual service that UFSA residents benefit from.”
The taxes are also used to purchase and maintain property within UFSA boundaries (for example, building and maintaining fire stations). UFSA said taxes are also used to pay for administrative costs.
Full financial statements and annual budgets are available on the UFSA website. The tentative budget for 2025 is also available online. l
Actor Roger Malaga, known for “High School Musical 3: Senior Year” and “Star Wars Legends: Legacy of the Force,” engaged and inspired students at Brighton High’s career days. (Photo courtesy of Brighton High)
Fire Station 124 is one of three stations in Riverton City. (City Journals)
thing you can pick up as a tool” to “get connected and gamify your life.”
Brighton junior Caleb Vickers, vice president of membership for the school’s business club, was one of the driving forces behind the career days. This initiative also ties into the group’s project for DECA, an organization that prepares students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, management and entrepreneurship.
“There are multiple things that can be done for this project, but we picked the career fair because it’s a way we can reach out to the 2,400 Brighton students,” Vickers said. “It allows them the chance to hear from a speaker and engage with possible future careers they might go into.”
Vickers learned the event required flexibility and adaptability. Despite months of planning, the group had to adjust last-minute when a speaker canceled on the second day. Another speaker canceled on the final day, but they quickly secured a replacement.
“We started planning it early so we could coordinate speakers’ and class schedules. Even so, we had a speaker not show and we had to pivot as students were filing in for that speaker,” he said.
They also had to ensure students would be in attendance since Brighton has an open campus.
“We wanted to ensure they would come so we created a raffle for students in
attendance,” he said, explaining the school club reached out to local businesses to donate gift cards. “I think we were pretty successful as there were about 800 students at Kehl’s presentation.”
Vickers, along with juniors Jonas Barnes and AJ Stanfield, will take their 20page paper to compete at the state DECA tournament Feb. 21-22.
“We’ll give the judges the paper and give an oral presentation of the planning, the organization, the execution and everything we did. We have 15 minutes to give them the highlights,” he said.
The trio is part of a 100-member student business club that has toured local businesses such as RSL, Hale Centre Theatre, and Crumbl, learning about operations, marketing strategies and business management.
Janet Goble, Canyons School District career and technical education director, praised the efforts of the Brighton High students in organizing the event and helping their peers explore potential career paths.
“It’s important students have these opportunities to learn about different careers than what they might know,” she said. “We want to open their eyes to these different types of careers as it might spark their interest in a career they never even thought about and give them a launch into their futures.” l
Celebrated Brighton lacrosse star Marcus Gundersen dies at 21
The day before Thanksgiving 2024, Marcus Gundersen, standout Brighton High 2021 graduate, unexpectedly died of a pulmonary thromboembolism. The Brighton community mourned the loss of the affable alumnus who was known at Brighton for his lacrosse goal keeping dominance. He helped take the Brighton lacrosse program to the state semifinals versus Park City and to the finals versus Skyline. His team was on track to take the state title in 2020 when the season was cut short due to the Covid pandemic.
Gundersen played multiple sports. Basketball, baseball, flag football, golf and hockey all before finding his true passion for lacrosse. He spent time studying and practicing all aspects of the sport.
“He learned the rules and every position before the goalie position found him,” said his mother Cindy Gundersen. He played for many teams across Utah, starting with the Brighton Junior League. As his love grew for the sport so did the teams he played on. These teams include the Brighton High School LAX, 801 Tribe, Wasatch LC, Utah Sting (first box lacrosse), UVU, Utah University club team, Greasy Biscuits, Bright City and ended his career with the Wasatch Whalers in the Box Lacrosse League. Most recently, Gundersen helped lead the Whalers to third place in the Box Lacrosse League championship in Chicago.
He received many accolades and awards throughout his career. One award that stands out is when he had 43 saves and the game-winning save during an overtime shootout. For this he received the MVP award and team medallion. “On and off
By Jerry S. Christensen | j.christensen@mycityjournals.com
the field Marcus was seen as a leader by his teammates, coaches and fans. Usually being the first to arrive and last one to leave the field, always setting the example,” said Gundersen’s sister Claire Gundersen Johnson.
“He would eat, sleep and breathe lacrosse,” said Gundersen’s long-time girlfriend Hailey Bangerter. “He would just find any sort of program or camp that he could go to, again, to just help out these kids and teach them the way of lacrosse.” His love for lacrosse didn’t just stop with playing the game. He dedicated several hours of his time mentoring players and coaching teams to victory. He enjoyed every moment of teaching kids his passion. His coaching teams consisted of Brighton High School, Skyline High School, Wasatch 2030 team,
Tribe camps, Nike camps and several private lessons. Through coaching he found his love of teaching children. It is how he earned his current position at Channing Hall.
In honor of Gundersen, his current team, the Wasatch Whalers, hosted a memorial game with the University of Utah lacrosse team on Jan. 12. The team posted the following “Ode to Eighty-Eight”: Marcus, You will be the sun shining on us at Sunday pickup games. The wind around us as we run the floor. The laughter that echoes off
the wall in the locker room. You are lacrosse & You are our medicine. You are forever our goalie. We love you. ALL HAIL
As a senior at Brighton, he was asked for the best advice for an underclassman. “Just enjoy the time you have. It goes by so fast. Plus you never know when it’s going to end, so work hard and enjoy the results,” responded Gundersen.
Gundersen is preceded in death by his father Michael Gundersen who died just last May of a sudden heart attack. l
Salt Lake Volleyball brings professional game back to Utah
Utahns have always been fans of volleyball, whether it’s through recreational play or their local church leagues. And boys’ volleyball became an officially sanctioned high school sport just last year.
Now professional women's volleyball returns to Salt Lake City as part of the League One Volleyball (LOVB, pronounced “Love”). The city has one of six franchises for the first-year league that kicked off on Jan. 8 in Atlanta. It was founded in 2020 as a “holistic volleyball ecosystem” that covered players from the beginner level through clubs and the pros. The plan was to start a pro league after the Paris Olympics, and now play is set to begin.
The teams don’t have names, other than the cities they play in. The six teams this year are in Atlanta, Austin, Houston, Madison, Omaha and Salt Lake. Utah’s team includes two-time Olympic medalists and 2020 gold medal winners Haleigh Washington and Jordyn Poulter, who lead a ros-
By Tom Haraldsen | t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com
ter with 21 collective All-American honors. Several come from local colleges like former Brighton High and University of Utah player Dani Drews, and former BYU teammates
Roni Jones-Perry and Mary Lake. Reigning VNL Best Libero Manami Kojima of the Japanese National Team will patrol the backcourt. U.S. National Team assistant Tama Miyashiro will instruct the squad, and she’ll be assisted by Bruno Chateau, who’s found success coaching internationally and in his native France.
Salt Lake played its first home match against Houston on Jan. 22 at Salt Lake Community College, where all of its home matches are scheduled except for the “Weekend with LOVB" on Feb. 7-8 at the Maverik Center in West Valley City. The team will play matches on both days that weekend.
Other home matches are set for March 20 against Madison, April 4 against Madison, April 5 against Austin. League finals will be held in mid-April in Louisville, Kentucky.
Members of the 15 player roster for Salt Lake Volleyball are as follows:
• Jordyn Poulter, S, Illinois
• Tamaki Matsui, S, Japan Women's College of Physical Education
• Morgan Miller, OH, Cal
• Maddie Haynes, OH, Cal
• Skylar Fields, OH, USC
• Tori Dixon, MB, Minnesota
• Sophie Fischer, MB, Georgia
• Serena Gray, MB, Pittsburgh
• Roni Jones-Perry, OH, BYU
• Haleigh Washington, MB, Penn State
• Manami Kojima, LIB, Aoyama Gakuin University
• Dani Drews, OH, Utah
• Mary Lake, LIB, BYU
• Claire Hoffman, OH, Washington
• Heidy Casanova, OPP
Every game will be broadcast through the ESPN family of networks, streamed on ESPN+ or broadcast through the league's website at LOVB Live. Ticket information available on line at www.lovb.com. l
Marcus Calvin Gundersen was a decorated Brighton lacrosse goalie. (Photo Brighton High)
The Whalers/Ute memorial lacrosse game played Jan. 12 in honor of Marcus Gundersen. (Photo Claire Gundersen Johnson)
The new logo for Salt Lake Volleyball, which has begun play in the LOVB league and will host home matches at the Maverik Center and Salt Lake Community College. (Logo courtesy of LOVB)
Brighton Wrestling wins Battle of the Axe this season
By Jerry S. Christensen | j.christensen@mycityjournals.com
Justafter the Apollo 11 conquered the moon in 1969, Brighton High School opened its doors as a split off of Hillcrest High School. The relationship between the two schools sparked traditions and rivalries. The football teams began a rivalry called the “Battle of the Pig Skin.” The basketball teams continue to this day a “Battle of the Jug” complete with a travelling trophy jug.
“The basketball rivalry is alive and well whenever the two teams happen to meet in any given year,” said Athletic Director and former Brighton basketball coach Garrett Wilson.
The swimming teams developed a “Battle of the Paddle” through the years. The wrestling rivalry, however, took on a darker shade of intensity. Don Neff, the newly appointed and now legendary wrestling coach at Brighton, colluded with Tex Casto, the wrestling coach at Hillcrest, to “promote the sport of wrestling.” An old axe became the symbol of wrestling superiority and the “Battle of the Axe” was born.
Marielle Rawle, Brighton High principal and BHS ‘85 alumnus, recalls “the Battle of the
Continued from front page
Axe was the peak sporting event of the year at Brighton in the 80’s. The gym was full to the ceiling when Hillcrest and Brighton wrestled.”
Coach Neff and assistant coaches Dave Chavis, Mark Montague and Manfred Lassig became fight promoters complete with handbills distributed to the surrounding Brighton community. Wrestling teams through the years counted the season a success or a failure based on the result of the single annual Battle of the Axe match. The sport thrived at both schools.
Neff, Chavis and Lassig were on hand last month to witness the 54th annual running of the rivalry that they nurtured through the early days. “The rivalry has diminished in quality and crowd size,” Neff said, “but the legacy continues.” It continues as the longest continual high school sports rivalry in the state of Utah. While there was a wrestling match in the Hillcrest gym, a celebration of the sport of wrestling broke out. Wrestlers from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s made their way to the new Hillcrest gym to relive high school wrestling glory. The match was officiated by 2018 Brighton grad-
Since the reported speed of these category of vehicles is technically not supposed to go over 29 mph, Russo would like to see them operated on public roadways of 25 mph.
“That keeps them off the major (road) arteries,” said Russo assuring enforcement.
“Should there be a standard for an age limit?” asked Russo suggesting a requirement of 16 years of age.
“I am a little uncomfortable making it 16,” said Hyland. “If I had the opportunity for my sons to ride a scooter or e-bike to their soccer practice between ages 12 and 16 it would have made my life so much easier.”
After some discussion with the council weighing out options between specific age limits, Russo concluded that he would work on drafting some language regarding age and they would come back to deliberate on what seemed most appropriate for their community.
“We need to decide what level of speed, or aggressiveness, or power, gets to a level where it is a ‘hey you need to be 16 and
uate and two-time wrestling state champion Brayden Stevens. Many who wrestled as high school athletes in the Axe are still involved in the industry as officials and coaches. 1973 Brighton state champion Ralph Fallentine coaches the Cyprus Pirates girls team. Brighton’s first state champion, Steve Taylor, coaches the Taylorsville High wrestling team. All reflect on the Battle of the Axe rivalry as the pinnacle of wrestling rivalries. Alta and Corner Canyon patterned a wrestling “Battle of the Shield” rivalry after the Axe when Corner Canyon split off of Alta.
Brighton hasn’t owned the Axe since before the pandemic. The current batch of Brighton seniors were in danger of being the first class of wrestlers to never have bested Hillcrest as three consecutive green stripes grace the axe handle from 2022, 2023 and 2024.
This year, on Dec. 17 2024, when that annual rivalry was held, Brighton won with a comeback statement 55-24. Will Clayton, a senior who had never been on the winning side of the Battle of the Axe said “it was the best
have a license,’” said Holton. “I don’t know that answer.”
Russo then asked if they should require single-ridership or if they would allow for passengers on e-bike and electric scooter transportation.
“I’ve seen kids stacked three high,” laughed Councilmember Shawn Newell.
“What about attachments for children?” asked Hyland. “Maybe we think about allowing passengers if over 18 (years old).”
Russo then asked the council how lenient or strict they wanted to be on prohibiting e-bikes and electric scooters on private and public property (without express written consent) such as church parking lots, shopping center parking lots, public parks and playgrounds. There was slight disagreement so Russo suggested he would draft a few different versions of some language and bring it back to see which felt right for the council.
“Last question,” began Russo, “do you want them on your trails?”
“No, we don’t want them there,” said Mayor Mike Weichers after mention of Park City and Salt Lake County already banning e-bikes on trails and Millcreek being in process
wrestling experience in my four years when I pinned my Hillcrest opponent in the Axe with one second to spare.”
Connor Dedman, a senior whose brothers wrestled in the Battle of the Axe over the years and yet never lost to Hillcrest, said, “I can now look the legacy Brighton wrestlers in the eye. We ended our time with an Axe win.”
The JV match, dubbed the Battle of the Hatchet, was also won by Brighton 24-0. The girls teams of Brighton and Hillcrest joined the travelling trophy rivalry last year with their own Battle of the Axe. Hillcrest won the first year and followed up this year with a convincing win 48-18. The rivalries on all fronts are alive and well 55 years after Don Neff lifted the first axe.
Senior captain and wrestling All American Ben Tillman said “finally beating Hillcrest Wrestling is a milestone. It shows the progress we have made with our program over the past few years. We are back on track with the tradition that the Brighton wrestlers before us set. It is a successful season!” l
of following suit.
“The more communities that start this, the safer they will be,” said Hyland.
Russo suggested some additional points to put into a drafted ordinance including: equipment must include a breaking system and front light(s) to turn on anytime the sun goes down; the weight (including the driver) cannot exceed 100 pounds; riders are subject to Utah traffic laws; drivers need to abide by driving and traffic laws; all DUI laws apply to e-vehicle operators; operators are prohibited from carrying packages or articles that prevents at least one hand on the handlebars; and some sort of proof of ownership (or receipt or card). The suggestion for enforcing these suggested regulations would be a violation of a traffic infraction not to exceed $250.
Russo will continue to research and work with City Attorney Shane Topham to draft some potential language for a city ordinance regulating e-bikes and electronic scooters and bring those drafts back to the city council at a later date for further review. l
Will Clayton narrows in on a pin at the 54th Battle of the Axe officiated by Brayden Stevens. (Jerry Christensen/City Journals)
Don Neff, Battle of the Axe founder, surrounded by the winning Brighton wrestlers and 54 years of rivalry match results. (Photo courtesy Larry Hansen)
Day. A day of love. A day we often focus on showing such love to our family, our friends, our coworkers, and even through Valentine’s we get for our children to give to their teachers. However, regardless of whether we are single, married, or in a relationship, we can often overlook showing a little love to ourselves.
Jayna Marie, a renowned celebrity makeup artist in L.A. whose work has transformed many lives, says “Loving ourselves is so important because we teach other people how to treat us.” She cautions, “The way we see ourselves determines the love we are going to accept from other people.”
In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in societal expectations and lose sight of our uniqueness as we focus on our imperfections. We often struggle with body image concerns, seeking validation, or simply focusing on the challenges of life we face. Instead, Marie encourages us to embrace imperfections and celebrate individuality as an integral part of who we are through the following three steps:
1. Overcoming insecurities
2. Having gratitude for one's body
3. Understanding and accepting one's story
Overcoming our insecurities is not to
Embracing self-love this Valentine’s Day
By Holly Curby | hello@hollycurby.com
be expected overnight, but rather a lifelong process. Marie lives by a mantra of “breathe in self-confidence, breathe out self-doubt.”
Criticism often mirrors personal insecurities and by understanding this, we can better support one another's journeys. “Seeking validation from others can be both exhausting and unfulfilling,” Marie says. Instead, she encourages introspection and support for each other.
As for having gratitude for one’s body, Marie emphasizes, “We are never going to
be younger than we are right now. Before we know it another 10 years will be gone and we’ll be wishing we looked like we do now or had the energy we do now.” Marie believes we are in either a phase of glowing or growing. Growing can be painful, but the glowing part is the outcome after the difficulties and hard work have been put in. There is such significance in having gratitude for our current selves and the fleeting nature of time, so might we cherish the present and live authentically.
Marie advises, “Part of understanding and accepting one’s story is being courageous and believing it’s going to end beautifully no matter where we are at in our story.” She continues that, “sometimes we have a hard time embracing our story because we aren’t where we want to be.” She encourages embracing faith in what is to come compared to the fear of where you are at on your journey. Resilience is gained through faith during such challenges of life. Both self-love and self-acceptance are significant in overcoming life challenges as we seek to live authentically, celebrate our unique stories and differences, and build a supportive community of mutual support and growth. “No matter where you are right now, how hard or scary it might seem, it’s exactly where you are to be,” encourages Marie.
As we navigate our journeys, let us remember that we are wonderfully made and that our stories can be more beautiful than we ever imagined. Listen to this inspiring interview in full and embark on a journey of self-love and empowerment on Holly’s Highlights Season 4 Episode 3. Embrace your inner beauty and cherish the present moment as you transform your life through self-love this Valentine’s Day. l
Full interview on Holly’s Highlights podcast. (Photo courtesy of Jayna Marie)
Learning to self-love. (Photo courtesy of Caleb Jones)
Canyon Centre to be more condos instead of office space
By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
Apublic
hearing regarding amendments to the interlocal agreements for the Canyon Centre development (7371 S. Canyon Centre Pkwy.) will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 18 at 6:45 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at Cottonwood Heights City Hall, 2277 E. Bengal Blvd.
This is continuing coverage on the Canyon Centre property bordering the Big Cottonwood Canyon gateway and Wasatch Boulevard intersection, encompassing approximately 10.90 acres of land.
“This is to amend the Community Development Area per the State Code process,” explained Community and Economic Development Director Mike Johnson. “The step forward is three-fold.”
He described the first step as being the development agreement which the Community Development and Renewal Agency (CDRA) Board approved at the previous meeting.
(Resolution 2024-04: Approving Third Amendment to Development Agreement for the Canyon Centre CDRA was motioned by Board member Matthew Holton, seconded by Board member Shawn Newell, and unanimously approved.)
At that meeting, Managing member Chris McCandless mentioned that the developers’ losses on this project have been and are substantial. They will not be benefiting from Tax Increment Financing (TIF) negotiated for this project but they don’t want those losses to come from the public. The TIF is detailed to be used for administration, construction of a parking structure, and public plaza improvements.
Per the originally relinquished TIF agreement, the CDRA requested $10,138,667 in tax revenues that were projected to be generated by development to fund a portion of the project’s costs. Per the current amendments, the CDRA projects $15,218,257 in tax increment revenues that will be generated
Gatheredby development within the Project Area to fund a portion of project’s costs within the Project Area.
That Third Amendment to the Development Agreement amended the construction deadline until Dec. 31, 2028. It also changed the use of a portion of the Canyon Centre development from Office to Residential Condominiums. These changes included the condition that the developer submit an updated shared parking plan reflecting the change from office to condos. The developer also needed to agree to construct a city park with 12 months of condo construction completion.
Johnson explained the second step of initiating an amendment to the interlocal agreements to the various taxing entities participating in this project.
(Resolution 2025-01: Authoring Preparation of a Third Amendment to the Project Area Plan for the Canyon Centre CDRA was moved by Newell, seconded by Board member Suzanne Hyland, and unanimously approved.)
Lastly, the third step was described by Johnson as amending the project area plan and budget. He mentioned that the CDRA board and staff had previously gone through the plan in detail, but final formal amendment of the documents is needed.
“In the meantime, we are providing documents to the taxing entities,” Johnson said, mentioning the importance of the coordination with Salt Lake County and the Canyons School District.
Copies of the Project Area map and boundary description may be obtained at no cost by contacting Cottonwood Heights Community and Economic Development Director Mike Johnson.
Johnson can be reached by emailing mjohnson@ch.utah. gov or calling 801-944-7060.
Copies of the third Amended Plan and the second Amend-
ed Budget are available to the public during business hours in the City Recorder’s office, or they may be requested by contacting Cottonwood Heights City Recorder Barbara Higgins. Higgins can be reached by emailing recorder@ch.utah. gov or calling at 801-944-7021. l
Dungeons & Dragons offers play and connection for adults
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
around a table strewn with colorful dice, a map, notebooks and snacks, a group of adults at Whitmore Library (2197 Fort Union Blvd.) dive into the immersive and imaginative world of Dungeons & Dragons.
For two years, the group has met to battle bipedal hyenas, capture magic relics and enjoy the realms of fantasy and friendship. Jackson Myrick is a customer service specialist for The County Library and also serves as the dungeon master for the group’s monthly adventures.
“The basics of Dungeons & Dragons is that it’s a cooperative storytelling tabletop war game,” Myrick said. “There’s one player who’s performing the role of the world and the characters within the world and then everyone else is a main character in the fantasy story. They’re all interacting with each other and that interaction forms the story that people come back for.”
D&D celebrated its 50th birthday last year and it’s estimated that 50 million people play the game worldwide. The Whitmore group is currently full but it’s only one of several D&D in the county’s library system.
West Valley resident Leah Sanford started playing a game similar to D&D 35 years ago, meeting with her group every Saturday. After COVID, she got interested in D&D and found the Whitmore players in 2023.
“Hasbro bought Wizards of the Coast and things have been getting very controversial ever since as they’re trying to gear it more to the younger player who is used to video game dynamics,” Sanford said. “There are those of us who like the pure tabletop type games…Adults don’t engage in imagination. This is
cooperative storytelling in a venue where we can totally invest ourselves in imaginative, cooperative play. And it’s delightful.”
Each person keeps track of their character in a notebook so they have a record of its adventures and changes and details of their character’s history. While the Whitmore group has an ongoing storyline that has taken them through surprising challenges, unexpected twists and interesting character development, other groups might have a one-off storyline that lasts for a couple of hours. These shorter stories allow people to drop in and join the fun without having to learn the history of the group.
Myrick said in our current world, people only interact with each other in specific ways. Playing D&D creates an open-ended collaboration and exploration into something that isn’t finite.
“It’s exploring that space in a more organic way and it’s nice for developing dynamics that you’re not normally going to see in a particular kind of evening’s conversation,” he said. “A question or puzzle can affect the other members of the group and how their characters interact. You have interesting conversations that put yourself into situations that are dynamic but aren’t high risk.”
The six members of the Whitmore D&D group come from all over the valley. Two even live in American Fork but travel to Cottonwood Heights for the story and camaraderie. Capping the group at six allows each member to have a chance to feel part of the adventure and fully invest in their character’s development.
“I just love watching other people play. I just think it’s great,” Sanford said. “You can end up with some high-tension moments. We had an adventure where one of our characters
died and another character got upset and was desperately trying to revive him. My character got in on it and the next thing you know, between the two of us, we managed to revive him. That was fun.”
For information about joining a D&D group through The County Library, visit slcolibrary.org/dungeons-and-dragons. l
The location of the future Canyon Centre Park is shown below with a green star. This park will be near the Marriot Courtyard hotel, Eight Settlers Distillery, and Saola Restaurant. (Photo courtesy of Cottonwood Heights)
Jackson Myrick (left) leads the Whitmore Library Dungeons & Dragons group that’s been meeting for two years. Players include (clockwise from Myrick), Leah Sanford, Brandon Drown, Parker Bone and Lorna Payne. (Peri Kinder/City Journals)
Onceper year, all Cottonwood Heights councilmembers and department chairs meet in a quiet room for the entire day to propose, debate and settle on the city’s priorities and projects for the upcoming year. This is their annual retreat. It is one of the main opportunities for each of the city’s leaders to pitch their desired initiatives and hopes for project funding. Held roughly one and a half months earlier than usual, the 2025 council retreat began at 8:30 a.m. on Jan. 16 at Market Street Grill (2985 E. Cottonwood Pkwy.). Here are the highlights:
“We are not expecting full funding of everything, but I do want to make you aware of all these asks,” City Manager Jared Gerber began as he summarized the overlaps in projects previously pitched.
The city’s infrastructure quickly emerged as a concern and priority for almost every individual in the room. Public Works Director Matt Shipp suggested studying the entire city’s infrastructure in order to draft a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan (CSAP) specific to Cottonwood Heights to help in developing a five-year plan for prioritizing transportation projects.
“While our Public Works Department does an excellent job with the resources available, it’s clear that a more detailed and strategic approach will be essential in the coming years,” Gerber said.
The entire council affirmed their commitment to infrastructure needs, especially storm drains, as a high priority to help guide their decisions for the upcoming year and develop a long-term strategy based on gathered data evaluating the condition of the current infrastructure.
“We must prioritize General Fund monies toward ensuring robust infrastructure operations and maintenance,” said Councilmember Ellen Birrell.
The Hillside Plaza Town Center was on top of most of the city leaders mind as well, as the ballot measure to bond for the project recently passed through the election results. The city since sent out a Request for Proposals (RFP) to identify a development partner.
“What a great year to look to the future by developing the town center at the old Hillside Plaza site,” said Councilmember Suzanne Hyland referencing the 20th anniversary of the city’s incorporation. “Choosing a development partner will be a crucial next step for the council.”
In anticipation of the future development, Mayor Mike Weichers and Councilmember Shawn Newell would like to prioritize city funds to go toward extending the sidewalks around the Hillside Plaza area and filling in any existing gaps to the pedestrian walkways.
Beyond these few overarching conversations, each of the five councilmembers pitched a few of their own unique priorities and projects for their fellow councilmembers to further consider.
Re-capping the 2025 council retreat
By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
Both Birrell and Hyland would like to expand the CSAP to further identify the highest risk areas and propose transportation priorities to address those risks. Birrell mentioned incorporating a Safe Systems Approach as they could then utilize funding from the Safe Streets for All grant monies already secured back in 2023. Such a five-year transportation project plan has been earmarked as a $100,000 expense.
“I’m urging my council colleagues to build a community-driven Safety Action Plan to guide future road improvements. This is part of my ongoing efforts for walkability for Cottonwood Heights and will require hiring a professional firm in 2025. This is a departure from past city practices of basing funding decisions on a Transportation Master Plan largely based on car-centric metrics,” said Birrell.
Councilmembers Newell and Matthew Holton would like to establish a nonprofit foundation where volunteers would sign up to help provide those services to older adults or differently-abled residents not typically covered by normal city operations.
“I share my continued effort to create opportunities for our residents to identify and serve those who are most in need. I will be working on a community foundation that will create an avenue for us to care for those around us who need a helping hand,” said Holton.
Mayor Weichers and Holton are asking for continuing support to develop their Sister City relationship with Incheon Yeonsu-gu, South Korea. They would like the council to consider setting aside $20,000 to host Incheon’s representatives and engage in cultural exchanges.
“A delegation of 15 is coming to visit our beautiful city and amazing state of Utah for the first time (this summer). Events for all in the
city are in the works,” said Holton. “I am also looking for private industry scholarship opportunities to send a group of our own high school students to visit our sister city through a cultural exchange, further sharing our Utah values across the globe while broadening the horizons for kids in our own community.”
Other potential projects that at least two councilmembers are in support of include: location improvements and outfitting of a federally-funded shooting range ($50,000), placing a monument within the Bengal Boulevard roundabout ($50,000), and completing the sidewalk along Chris Lane.
Initiatives without requiring fiscal impacts were proposed by councilmembers to prioritize as well. Councilmembers Hyland
and Newell would like to research code for short-term rentals to determine appropriate areas for amendment and regulation implementation.
“I’m focused on reviewing and revising short-term rental policies. We need to consider how to maintain the mountain suburban lifestyle we enjoy as residents and promote local business growth by offering a mix of goods and services to capture tourism dollars,” Hyland said.
Before this annual retreat, each of the separate city departments and committees were asked to identify and forward along their priorities for consideration. Both the Cottonwood Heights Parks & Recreation Service Area Committee (CH2) and the Parks, Trails
Potential concepts for an ADA Playground within Cottonwood Heights. (Photo courtesy of Cottonwood Heights)
Cottonwood Heights will consider hiring full-time maintenance workers for City Hall and the Public Works Building – especially as council priorities shift to focusing on Public Works and the city’s infrastructure over the next 5 years. (Cassie Goff/City Journals)
and Open Space (PTOS) Committee identified upgrading Mountview Park (1651 Fort Union Blvd.) as high priority. (The PTOS Committee also suggested funding the second phase of Pollinator Gardens which would cost $65,000.)
“We discussed looking at this site as the city’s first ADA-accessible playground, making sure that all kids in our city, no matter their physical abilities, have a place to play. This is something that I will fight for,” said Holton.
In addition, the council discussed the possibilities of replacing the athletic fields (which would cost approximately $60,000) and refurbishing existing courts (which would be $19,000).
Many of the suggestions made by city departments involved furthering staff employment. The Finance Department would like extra funds to hire a full-time employee to train under the current treasurer before his retirement this upcoming year.
“We discussed divvying out the HR and recorder responsibilities,” Gerber said and suggested hiring a full-time employee to take over the duties of city recorder and risk manager to ensure legal requirements are being met.
In addition, he would like to hire a fulltime maintenance position to help maintain both the city hall and public works buildings. The possible savings from current contracts could be $45,000.
The Police Department (CHPD) would also like to hire another officer to cover night and weekend animal control (which could be upward of $120,000 for an experienced officer).
Beyond personnel, the CHPD will need to update security systems per the FBI’s direction and upgrade their interview rooms – anticipated costs between $10,000 and $65,000. The Community & Economic Development Department will also need to upgrade their permitting software to provide more efficient
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service and transparency – anticipated cost $145,000.
While all of the above requests are merely options for the council to delegate next fiscal year’s revenue, there are some necessary expenditure increases already accounted for: general IT increases for software licensing and equipment replacement will cost $79,000; liability insurance will increase $35,000; and elections will cost $45,000 (unless the state legislature makes changes to how elections are run). Both VECC (dispatch communications) and UFA will be increasing their fees this year as well, but those numbers have yet to be finalized.
As per staff compensation: MERIT projections were reported at $235,000, with health and dental projected to increase 5% (for $50,000), a 3.4% COLA increase would be an additional $225,000, and a $7,500 increase for the city attorney fee all totaling a $517,500 increase.
“Our city council is deeply committed to improving the lives of our residents,” said Gerber. “One key focus is enhancing public outreach and engaging more effectively with residents. This includes leveraging available technology to ensure we remain efficient and effective in delivering services, while also finding innovative ways to enhance transparency and improve the user experience for residents interacting with us in this digital age.”
Each councilmember reported on their several conversations with varying city staff members about ways to better engage residents and make sure that communications, events and activities are fully inclusive in the Cottonwood Heights community.
“The 2025 council retreat gave us a chance to think and deliberate comprehensively including the perspectives and expertise of key staff,” concluded Birrell. l
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A delegation from Cottonwood Heights’s Sister City Incheon, South Korea will be coming to Utah this summer. (Photo courtesy of Cottonwood Heights)
University of Utah pioneers new medical humanities degree
By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com
Literature is filled with examples of all sorts of doctors: Dr. Jekyll, Dr. Frankenstein, Dr. Faustus, Dr. Zhivago, even Dr. Dolittle.
And it turns out that reading those books – and the study of humanities in general – can be instructive for real doctors, too. At least that’s the kind of thinking behind a new program being pitched at the University of Utah.
Two professors at the U. are pushing for the school to launch a bachelor’s degree called “medical humanities,” where students who want to go into the medical field will study the classics of writing, the arts, philosophy and ethics – all with the intention of making them better, more holistic health care providers.
“The U. is already known for its excellence in providing healthcare for medical research, for its expertise in medical ethics, for arts-and-health initiatives,” said Gretchen Case, director of the U.’s longstanding Center for Health Ethics, Arts and Humanities. “We have the great fortune of having a health sciences campus adjacent to the main campus, which is not true at all universities. We can share knowledge and expertise easily in all directions.”
Jim Tabery, one of the professors overseeing the new degree, said they designed the degree looking at the background in medical humanities, both historically and contemporarily, to see that it’s really interdisciplinary.
“You’ve got everything from people in theater and media studies to folk like me in philosophy, to people over in health communication to people in disability studies,” Tabery said. “There’s lots of people interested in doing that and making sure it’s helping people and not hurting people beyond the clinicians and the folks in the hospital.”
Tabery said they wanted to give students a sense of that interdisciplinary breath when designing the degree.
The health and ethics center has existed at the state’s flagship institution with various name changes but a singular mission since 1989. It is focused on bringing insights from the humanities and arts into the medical world of science, an intersection that Case sees as natural and beneficial, teaching healers to act with compassion, according to the center’s mission statement.
“Healthcare is humans giving care to humans,” she said. “Without attention to all humans in that exchange, you aren’t truly giving or receiving care.”
The U. already has a minor in medical humanities; it is also currently the only traditional public university in the state with an associated medical school. Now, Case wants to see the program expand into a full
degree for students to major in to train the next generation of doctors.
The degree would be carved into four “core areas.” Tabery said the core areas consist of communication and culture, ethics and epistemology, arts and letters, and disability, gender and ethnic studies. Each student would have to take at least two classes in each of the core areas.
Tabery said they started by scouring the university and asking other professors if their medical students could take their classes, and he said other professors were very interested in getting involved. Soon enough, Tabery said they had a huge list of courses that are offered across the campus.
Tabery said, this way, students get to figure out how they want their medical humanities degree to focus on.
“We think that combining medical humanities with some other health related or science related field is going to make them both more competitive for that next thing, but also make them a more patient centered and informed practitioner of that health related discipline,” Tabery said.
Softer skills, like close reading, analyzing a text, listening, asking questions, connecting with people, are often developed in the humanities classroom. And
they can go a long way in building a foundation for health professionals, along with the science they learn in chemistry or biology, when working with patients with complex illnesses.
That can include telling someone they have a life-changing diagnosis, studying a patient’s symptoms, thinking creatively about how to treat an illness and generally communicating with kindness. Essentially, viewing an X-ray uses the same skills as interpreting art.
“We want students who are not explicitly interested in becoming a healthcare professional also to choose this major,” Case said. “We need people in all professions who understand health and healthcare.”
Tabery said there is demand for it in Utah, which doesn’t have any school offering degrees in this field while roughly 130 universities nationwide do, mostly on the East Coast.
“And I would say there has certainly been no pushback,” he said. “If anything, it’s been the opposite of people sort of coming out of the woodworks and expressing more interest in it.”
Tabery said it’s been gratifying to see the response and that it “speaks to the need
for this program” and how well positioned the U. is to provide it.
“I would love to see the University of Utah known internationally for its innovative, interdisciplinary approach to health and healthcare, and I think that is absolutely possible,” Case said.
The new degree would help give students an edge in applying to medical school, particularly if they pair it with a traditional science degree.
“I hope adding medical humanities to what they do makes them think more about things like how to communicate better about the ethical implications of their decisions about how medicine, when it’s deployed, affects certain populations differently than other populations,” Tabery said.
Tabery said the degree would make students much more well-rounded and more informed consumers of the medical research they’ll have to put into practice.
If approved, the program would start in fall 2025, as a collaboration between the Department of Philosophy and College of Humanities. It passed unanimously in the Academic Senate, though it will still require final approval from both the U.’s board of trustees and the greater Utah System of Higher Education. l
The University of Utah hopes to launch a new bachelor’s degree called medical humanities by fall 2025. (Adobe file photo)
Upcoming events and musical with the Cottonwood Heights Arts Council
By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
Members of the Arts Council within Cottonwood Heights City certainly didn’t slow down for the holiday season.
During the last city council meeting of 2024 (held on Dec. 17), the Arts Council was able to celebrate some exciting news. The Arts Council was able to receive a $6,075 grant from The Utah Division of Arts & Museums.
(This was accepted through the council’s Resolution 2024-74: Approving a Grant Agreement with the Utah Division of Arts & Museums for FY 2024-25. The resolution was motioned by Councilmember Ellen Birrell, seconded by Councilmember Shawn Newell, and unanimously approved.)
Two of the Arts Council members were re-appointed as well. Larua Garcia and Brinley Wallace will service for another three-year term.
(Their re-appointments are result of Resolution 2024-75: Consenting to an Appointment of the Arts Council which was motioned by Councilmember Matthew Holton, seconded by Birrell, and unanimously approved.)
The Arts Council has been hitting the ground running the beginning of 2025. They have a handful of upcoming events
planned for the next few months.
On Jan. 16, the Arts Council unveiling their brand new logo. The Arts Council describes their logo as “a joyful family dancing with upraised arms, forming the branches of our namesake cottonwood tree, with roots that connect to the form of our beautiful Wasatch Mountains. Aligned with Cottonwood Heights’ commitment to creativity and heritage, and centered on artistic expression is all its forms, we celebrate the spirit, unity and growth of our community.”
From Feb. 3 until Feb. 28, an art exhibit created by Kristen Benshoff’s fourthgrade students from Canyon View Elementary School will be on display at City Hall (2277 Bengal Blvd.). These 90 geometric pattern tempera paintings were inspired by pop artist Peter Max.
They will host a Sweetheart Paint Night on Friday, Feb. 21 at 6:30 p.m. (until 8:30 p.m.). Local artist Whitney Horrocks will lead attendees through a “stunning masterpiece of your own and will help you with every brushstroke.” Sweetheart Paint Night will be held at City Hall and will cost $14 per person. That cost includes light refreshments and all painting supplies. Registration is required and opens Feb. 3.
One of the biggest events for the Arts
“We're unveiling our brand-new logo — a fresh look that represents who we are and where we're headed.” (Photo Courtesy of Cottonwood Heights Arts Council)
Council is their annual summer musical.
This year, the Arts Council will be performing “The Lighting Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical.” There will be eight total performances of “The Lighting Thief” running from July 11 until July 19.
Auditions have already been scheduled for March 14 (6:30-9:30 p.m.) and March 15 (9 a.m. until noon). (Virtual auditions may be submitted through the casting man-
ager before midnight on March 13.) Callbacks will be scheduled for March 22 at 10 a.m.
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
Testing and prevention are key to reducing lead poisoning in children
By Jolene Croasmun | j.croasmun@mycityjournals.com
High risk areas for lead are in many zip codes around the Salt Lake Valley that have homes built before 1978. These homes more than likely have been painted with lead paints. The soils around these older homes could contain lead. The Salt Lake County Health Department offers help with testing and ways of preventing lead poisoning in families.
Lead particles can be found in older homes and buildings. “Prevention is the educational portion and how to live within your environment,” said Candice Briese, health educator with the Salt Lake County Health Department.
“Our focus is children under 6 since they have a faster breathing rate and they are exposed to lead dust. They put everything into their mouths and touch the ground more often,” Briese said. This makes children more at risk for lead poisoning.
No level of lead is safe for a child. If a child has 3.5 µg/dL then this needs to be addressed right away. Lead poisoning can cause learning and behavioral problems, lowered intelligence, digestive issues, hearing and speech concerns and has been linked to incarceration later in life.
Have your child tested. “Testing can be done at the doctor’s office,” Briese said.
“We will do a home visit if a child test results are at 3.5 µg/dL. We will bring the XRF analyzer to the home so we can test and discuss the dietary needs of the kiddos and we really encourage reading. Reading is a good way to build those neurons and compensate for that loss from lead poisoning,” Briese said.
There is a real concern with nutritional aspects for children with lead exposure. “Lead can mimic calcium and iron in our bodies. What it does is cause things like anemia because it replaces the iron in their bodies. What we like to do is encourage the dietary approach in that the kids have the required amount of iron and vitamin C, which can help with the absorption of iron,” Briese said.
“Lead can store in the bones for 10 to 20 years. We encourage women that want to get pregnant to get tested,” Briese added. Lead poisoning can cause miscarriages and developmental effects on the growing fetus like low birth weight or hurt the baby's nervous system, kidneys and brain.
“We do testing events in the community and we have an XRF analyzer that we have when we are out and about,” Briese said. People can bring Ziplock bags full of paint chips from their homes or bags of soil along with spices to be tested at the events to see if there is lead there. “We are always happy to test the products if people want to check for lead.”
“With older homes painted with lead paint, you can encapsulate it, but if you get a ding on the wall, you want to cover it up,” Briese said. “It is important to find ways to make your old home safe. There is a program in the county that is called Lead Safe Housing that can come to your home and test for lead. There are requirements for this service like if you have a child in your home or a pregnant woman is visiting.”
Homeowners may want to get connected to lead safe certified contractors by visiting www.saltlakecounty.gov/ and search for the Lead Safe Housing program.
“Our primary objective is to find it and get it out of the environment. We see it with mugs and the paint on the product,” Briese said. “We want to get it out of there and get the nutrients into the child’s body and then let’s read.”
“We encourage wet cleaning to dust since lead does not break down quickly. It has a very long life. We need to be aware if it is there and wash our hands more often.”
Growing a garden in the yard of an older home could be concerning since lead could be present in the soil. “Certain vegetables will be better than others for growing in the yard of an old house. We might encourage a raised bed in those areas,” Briese said.
Spices can be a concern. “If buying them online or if from other countries those are the ones we worry about having lead in them. We see it in turmeric, lead is heavy and it is added to a spice they get more bang for the buck. It makes the color more vibrant and lead is sweet. This is why kids eat paint chips. It has a sweet taste and that is why they add it to the spice,” Briese added.
Some makeup from certain communi -
ties might use kohl liner or surma around their eyes, which has lead in it. This makeup is typically bought online or from other countries. Check the ingredients in the products you purchase to be sure no lead is in it.
A person can be exposed to lead when visiting a gun range. "Every time you fire the gun you get lead dust back splashed onto you. So it is important to wash your hands, face and your clothes afterwards,” Briese said.
Fishing exposes a person to lead. If you use lead fishing sinkers you will want to wash your hands along with any children who are fishing with you before eating food due to the lead exposure. There is the Safe Kids Fare on Feb. 22 at the Mountain America Expo that residents can get things tested at and if more information is needed, email leadprovention@saltlakecounty.gov. l
Water pipes in homes built before 1978 are places where you might find lead. (Wikimedia)
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Busting winter driving myths: what really keeps you safe on icy roads
By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com
Driving in the winter is a different kind of beast, especially when some of the most common advice for driving in the snow and cold isn’t always accurate.
With much of the country set to deal with snow, ice and bitter-cold temperatures, here are some of the most common winter driving myths.
Pump your brakes on ice
The age-old advice of pumping your brakes while on ice isn’t always true for drivers nowadays.
Pumping the brakes, when the driver steps on the brake pedal multiple times in a row to stop the wheels from locking up, is an old-fashioned way to prevent skidding on ice that can be counterproductive for many cars.
According to AAA, anti-lock braking systems, which pump the brakes for you, have become a standard since the 1990s. These days, most cars have anti-locking brakes, but it’s best to check the manual to make sure.
So, when cars with anti-lock brakes are on ice, the best practice is to apply steady pressure.
Gas freezes if you don’t have enough in the tank
This myth is close, but not necessarily true.
AAA said the gas in the tank won’t freeze until temperatures hit 50 degrees below zero, which means drivers will most likely not be finding a block of gas in the tank anytime soon.
However, your gas tank can freeze, so drivers should keep more gas in the tank in the winter. According to AAA, this can help minimize the space in the tank for water condensation to form. That condensation could enter your fuel line and freeze, preventing your vehicle from starting and damaging the fuel line.
o, the more gas you have in your tank, there’s less of a chance that condensation will have a place to form.
Let your car warm up before you drive
Cars used to need to idle for the carburetors to work and for oils to warm up, but with new technology, as long as your vehicle isn’t older than the early 1990s, you probably don’t need to let your car thaw before you hit the road.
The U.S. Department of Energy notes that guidance from most car manufacturers says your vehicle is ready to drive after 30 seconds of warming up.
However, it can take your engine between five and 15 minutes to completely warm up, according to Business Insider. If
it’s an extremely cold day, it may not be a bad idea to let your car run for more than 30 seconds before driving off.
Now, while we’re getting into the deep end of winter and finally starting to see some snow, there are some things you want to keep in mind as you hit the icy roads.
Slow down
This one might seem obvious, but given the number of people speeding down the freeway in both lanes during a snowstorm, the idea of reducing speed during increment weather appears to be a foreign concept to some Utah drivers.
The slippier it gets, the more you need to reduce your speed. Stopping on slippery roads can take more than triple the usual distance. Anticipate your moves and turns in advance and keep your steering and throttle input as smooth as possible.
Clear ice and snow from your vehicle before driving
Again, it may seem like this one is obvious, but there are more cars on the road with snow piled up and ice frosting the windshield than you may think.
As we’re taught in driver’s education, if you can’t see, you can’t drive safely. If you park your car outside, you’re bound to deal with ice, frost and fresh snow on some mornings. As much as it hurts to stand in the cold for that long, it’s much safer to clear your entire car of snow, frost and ice before leaving.
Give extra space to the vehicle ahead
When conditions are wet there’s no telling what it will take to avoid an accident, especially if you need to stop. In winter conditions, it’s best to give at least double the amount of space you’re used to for the vehicle ahead.
Having good tires will help you stop and keep control, but even with new tires it’s best to keep a healthy distance between you and the next car.
Read the road
During a drive on snowy surfaces, your traction will ebb and flow from moment to moment. Newer cars have a wide array of helpful safety technologies, but they shouldn’t replace your driver instincts and awareness – especially in adverse weather conditions.
Keep both hands on the wheel, turn down your music, avoid using cruise control and constantly assess how the vehicle and road feel. If you sense a loss of grip on the road, don’t panic. Slow down, take a deep breath and make slow, gradual movements as you keep driving. l
When driving on slippery roads, be sure to keep double the normal amount of space between you and the driver in front of you. (Photo AI generated)
With visions of Jack White, Prince and Sophie Lloyd strumming in my head, I started taking guitar lessons last year to prove that old dogs can still be tricky. After months of lessons, I confidently state Jack White can rest easy. I won’t be coming for his job.
Guitar lessons have challenged my patience but expanded my capacity for playing incorrect chords on a slightly outof-tune instrument. I pluck through terrible-sounding riffs and know practice time is over when I drop the guitar pick in the sound hole for the hundredth time.
Each week, I meet with the ever-patient Emily at Guitar Center so I can go over my lesson. I spend most of the time trying to convince her I really did practice while ignoring the eye twitch she develops whenever I play an F chord.
She’ll give me advice like, “Press the strings harder” or “Change the position of your thumb” or “Maybe take up baking.” I go home and practice chords and strums and fingerpicking until even the dog leaves the room. But after practicing “Blowin’ in the Wind” for six weeks, my husband finally recognized the chorus.
I’ve gained an appreciation for guitar players, and I get enraged by people who say they taught themselves to play the guitar because that can’t possibly be a thing. Like every child in Utah, I took piano lessons, and that background has helped with counting and timing but that’s the extent of its helpfulness when it comes to the guitar.
The hubby and I visited Nashville in October, where even toddlers can play the intro to “Stairway to Heaven,” and it highlighted how much I still have to learn. Every dive bar had an exceptional guitarist strumming chords while holding a beer bottle. I ate chicken wings and sipped margaritas, mesmerized by their talent.
Time to face the music
Peri Kinder Life and Laughter
Not only were they exceptional, but they could play any song by heart. My brain has no storage capacity. My hard drive is full. I can’t memorize songs, and I can barely remember chord progressions. I’m still looking at chord charts like they’re hieroglyphics.
Learning guitar is mostly about finding new ways to use your nondominant hand. In theory, a plucked string should create a musical vibration. In reality, a plucked string provides a muffled thud because I’m not on my fingertips or I’m too far from the fret or I can’t stretch my hand into a barre chord or I’m just inept. All of those things can be true.
After I played “If I Had a Hammer” for several weeks, my husband said if he had a hammer he’d smash my guitar. Not nice. But fair.
I grew up listening to singers like Joan Baez, Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash. Mom and my aunt would visit assisted living centers (they were called rest homes in the ’70s) to sing and play the guitar, entertaining the captive audience. Sometimes I’d sing along and screw up their “Leaving on a Jet Plane” harmonies with my squeaky 8-year-old voice.
Learning to play the guitar is a connection to my late mom. I can’t say my guitar music honors my mom because no one deserves that kind of honor, but I can imagine her
smiling (and probably grimacing) whenever I pick up the guitar. Maybe there are earplugs in heaven.
Watching Prince perform at the Super Bowl, seeing Jack White in concert and hearing Sophie Lloyd shred has become an act of reverence. I stand in awe at their talent as I slowly pick through “Five Hundred Miles” for what feels like the 500th time.
