Special Section: Education
SheTech, botany classes, helping a leukemia student smile
Page 11
Playing for fallen teammate, Herriman softball team ready for big season
By Josh McFadden
After a successful 2024 season, the Herriman softball team was hit with tragedy when teammate Kiki Feliciano passed away from cancer. The Mustangs are playing in her honor this season.
The Herriman softball team experienced a full array of emotions last year.
The Mustangs had a strong season in 2024, going 23-6 overall and finishing second to eventual Class 6A champion Riverton in Region 2 play by posting a 7-3 mark. Herriman won its super regionals matchup with Corner Canyon in the state tournament before bowing out in bracket play.
Then, the Mustangs lost someone close to them.
Herriman student and softball player Kiki Feliciano passed away after a battle with cancer. While her passing brought sadness to the school and softball program, her teammates are determined to dedicate this season to her and give it their all each day in her memory.
“As the season begins, the players are filled with emotions,” head coach Heidi McKissick said. “There’s a strong sense of excitement and anticipation, especially with many returning players. The team is motivated and determined to give their best, driven by the memory of Kiki. This season holds a special significance, as it would have been Kiki’s senior year, and the team is united in dedicating their efforts to honor her memory and embody the spirit of “Kiki Strong” throughout their games. This dedication adds a layer of purpose and resilience to their mindset as they approach the new season.”
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McKissick and her players would love nothing more than to capture a region title and play for a chance to be state champions. But they know both are daunting tasks.
Herriman competes in a difficult region that includes not only Riverton but perennial power Bingham. Mountain Ridge and Copper Hills can be dangerous, too. Corner Canyon rounds out Region 2.
“One of our biggest challenges is competing in a tough region with strong teams like Riverton, Bingham, Mountain Ridge and Copper Hills,” McKissick said. “Each game is a significant test, and we must approach every match with focus and determination, ensuring we don’t underestimate any opponent.”
Because the Mustangs will face talented opponents just about every game, McKissick isn’t going to look ahead past anyone.
“Our primary goal for the season is to play one game at a time,” she said. “Competing in the most challenging region, we understand that each match serves as crucial preparation for our broader journey. We aim to use these experiences to build resilience, improve our skills and foster teamwork, ensuring we grow stronger with every game.”
Defeating Region 2 opponents and marching through the gauntlet of the state tournament will require Herriman to be productive offensively and stingy on defense.
“For us to succeed this season, we must
Former Herriman student and softball player Kiki Feliciano tragically passed away from cancer last summer. Her Mustang teammates are playing in her honor this season. (Photo courtesy Heidi McKissick)
continue to hit well, score plenty of runs and maintain a strong defense,” McKissick said.
“These elements will be key to winning games and achieving our goals.”
Last season, the Mustangs were outstanding at the plate, ranking as the No. 1 hitting team in 6A. The lineup will be vir-
tually the same as it was in 2024, so McKissick expects more of the same this season. She is also excited about pitching and the players she can turn to on the mound.
“The team’s strengths are primarily in
Continued page 4
Dermaid and senior first baseman Maddy Maxfield are seasoned leaders who bring experience and skill to Herriman.
our exceptional hitting,” she said. “With the same players returning, we aim to maintain these impressive results. Our pitching staff is also back this season, stronger and healthier, which will further enhance our performance and competitiveness.”
The Mustangs have several standout performers.
Senior outfielder McKenzie Quintero is back this season after hitting 10 home runs, three triples and eight doubles a season ago. She also drove in 39 runs last season.
“Known for her powerful bat and speed, [Quintero] is a significant threat both at the plate and on the bases,” McKissick said.
Senior shortstop Keira Rodriguez, senior second baseman/catcher Kinlee Mc-
“The team’s leadoff hitter and defensive leader, [Rodriguez] consistently performs every game,” McKissick said. “[McDermaid] contributes a strong bat and enhances the team’s defense across various positions. [Maxfield] is solid defensively and has a reliable bat.”
A pair of juniors, Sofia Lancaster (a utility player) and Ayvree Egelund (a catcher and outfielder), are significant contributors to the team. Pitcher Ashlyn Beratto, pitcher Sierra Prescott and sophomore Aspyn Hawes are three sophomores who figure to play keys roles this season and beyond. Prescott didn’t play as a freshman due to a broken foot.
“With an exceptional bat, [Lancaster] strengthens the team defensively as an
outfielder and pitcher,” McKissick said. “[Egelund] boasts a strong bat and excellent defensive skills. [Beratto] impressed as a freshman and is expected to perform well again. [Prescott] is a tough competitor and is anticipated to contribute significantly on the mound this season. [Hawes] is recognized as a powerful hitter and a solid defender in the outfield.”
Herriman started the season by winning three of its first seven games. McKissick is looking for the team to bolster its play in the field throughout the rest of non-region play before the Mustangs stepped into region action on March 18 at home against Corner Canyon.
“We need to focus on improving our defense,” she said. “With our pitchers performing well, we must support them by consistently making plays in the field. Strengthening our defensive skills will help
us win more games and improve our team performance.”
With Feliciano on their minds, the Herriman players feel inspired by their former teammate. McKissick appreciates the players’ dedication and the strong bond they enjoy together.
“What I like most about coaching this group is their eagerness to learn new skills to enhance the team,” she said. “Their deep love for the game and each other creates a supportive and motivating environment. We have many talented players dedicated to improving daily, constantly pushing themselves to reach new heights. Their teamwork and camaraderie make every practice a rewarding experience, and their commitment to the sport is truly inspiring. It’s a privilege to guide such a passionate and driven group.” l
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The Herriman softball team returns a bulk of its players from last season’s 23-6 squad. (Photo courtesy Heidi McKissick)
Herriman’s Community Garden offers space for public use
Herriman City’s Community Garden provides space for locals, though demand is often high and preference is usually given to returning members and residents of Herriman.
By Elisa Eames e.eames@mycityjournals.com
As spring arrives in earnest, Herriman residents lacking garden space may watch longingly while neighbors begin their planting season. However, the city has maintained an organic communal garden for years, though many may be unaware of the gated space tucked away between a residential neighborhood and a church in Old Herriman. Located at 12707 S. Pioneer St. (6000 West), the city-owned community garden is available for public use during the growing season.
“Not everyone has the space at home for a garden, so this program gives residents a chance to grow their own vegetables and plants in a shared space,” Parks Operations Coordinator Krystal Brklac -
ich said. “It’s a simple way to support gardening in the community.”
The garden’s mission is to increase awareness of community gardening and gardening in general, ensure plot maintenance, support community gardeners and recognize Herriman’s gardening and farming heritage.
“We love seeing residents come out to enjoy the community garden each year,” Herriman’s Mayor Lorin Palmer said. “Whether they’re growing produce or just spending time outdoors, it’s a great way for people to connect and take part in something they enjoy.”
The Herriman City Community Garden Committee manages the space, and committee chairs act as points of contact between gardeners and the city. The committee encourages families to use the garden, commonly allowing one garden plot per household. Children under 14 must have parental supervision.
“Preferences will be given first to returning members in good standing; additional plots will then be assigned on a first-come first served basis,” the garden website writes. Gardeners may use more
than one plot if extra plots are available.
Though nonresidents may use the garden, Herriman residents are likely to receive preference.
There is no cost to use your plot, but a refundable deposit is required—$40 for a single plot, which is 30 feet in length and includes three rows and two half rows, and $60 for a double plot, which is 30 feet in length and includes six rows and two half rows.
“The deposit will be refunded at the end of the season if you remain a gardener in good standing… and your assigned plot is cleaned out… by the designated date,...” the website writes. Generally, this date is in mid-October after the first frost.
To remain in good standing, gardeners must diligently tend their own plots as well as contribute to the garden as a whole. Before planting, they must review orientation materials and commit to helping with two community weeding days, one harvest for donations if needed and one irrigation pull where the garden is irrigated. Irrigation pulls take place every ten days, but gardeners may use the onsite hose in between pulls.
Gardeners must also maintain their plots and walkways, keeping them free of
weeds and any debris throughout the season. In addition, the committee may need help with marking plots and fall cleanup.
“A plot at the Herriman City Community Garden… is a privilege,…” the website writes.
Plots will become available for use after Mother’s Day, May 11, and as demand is usually significant, gardeners must develop their plots no later than Memorial Day, May 26, if weather permits. Plots remaining undeveloped after Memorial Day will go to those on the waitlist, and deposits will not be refunded.
“The Garden encourages the cultivation of edible plants. Do not cultivate dangerous or illegal plants (i.e., poison ivy, poison mushrooms, etc.). Do not cultivate any invasive plants (i.e mint, rhubarb, etc.),” the website warns.
Pest or weed control chemicals are prohibited, including germination inhibitors and traditional or organic Preen brand products.
To register to use the community garden, visit www.herriman.gov/community-gardens. For questions, please contact the Herriman City Community Garden liaison, Krystal Brklacich, at krbrklacich@ herriman.gov or (801) 285-9722. l
Off Pioneer Street, Herriman’s Community Garden is ready for the 2025 growing season. (Elisa Eames/ City Journals)
The city maintains land on Pioneer Street between homes and a church for communal gardening. (Photo courtesy Herriman City)
Herriman invites local residents to use its community garden. (Photo courtesy Herriman City)
Herriman residents enjoy fresh produce from the community garden. (Photo courtesy Herriman City) Herriman residents enjoy fresh produce from the community garden. (Photo courtesy Herriman City)
By Elisa Eames e.eames@mycityjournals.com
Another casualty of inflation has fallen; this time it was city-wide high-speed internet.
In the summer of 2023, Herriman made tentative plans to install a fiber-optic broadband network, an endeavor two years in the making. But by November of that year, increased costs and interest rates derailed plans, and it was back to the drawing board. The network was to be implemented through a partnership between private enterprises and the city.
“The city council still feels that quality, high-speed internet access is vital to serve the community’s needs in our modern area, but the city is no longer pursuing a publicly-owned network (utility-type model) that encompasses all properties in city boundaries,” Herriman wrote on its website.
Fiber-optic internet is pricier than other options, and because its cables are made of glass, they are more fragile than the copper wires used in cable internet. An essential aspect of fiber-optic networks, conduit tubing is used to protect and encase fibers to prevent damage.
It is generally recognized that the significantly faster speeds, increased reliability and better consistency of fiber-optic internet outweigh drawbacks. The city continues to explore alternatives.
In February of last year, the city again began accepting proposals for an agreement allowing it to use fiber-optic lines to connect existing city infrastructure and for ways to make fiber-optic internet accessible for all. The city council reviewed proposals, and last fall, the city invited All West Communications to the negotiation table.
“In August, the city published the Invitation to Negotiate. All West and four other companies submitted proposals. The city chose to negotiate with All West,” Herriman Communications Manager Jon LaFollette said.
During the ensuing months, the city drafted an agreement for a fiber and conduit lease, which would enable Herriman to use All West’s network infrastructure while All West would use the city’s existing fiber-optic conduit.
“Some highlights of their proposal
In August, the city published the Invitation to Negotiate. All West and four other companies submitted proposals. The city chose to negotiate with All West.
Communications Manager Jon LaFollette
were that they would continue building their existing network in our city, allowing Herriman City to use the network to connect infrastructure and facilities for more efficient public services, and they would be allowed to use public utility easements on private property (which are not currently allowed for telecommunications) to install their network,” LaFollette said. Herriman would use All West’s under-
ground network to maintain streetlights, stoplights, water infrastructure and stormwater gates. And rather than staying within public right-of-way zones, All West would enjoy access to public utility easement areas in Herriman for the installation of fiber-optic lines as it maintains the private development of its fiber-optic network in the city.
In January, the city council was optimistic about the proposal but has not yet approved it. Expected to be finalized by the end of spring, the agreement would not affect third-party service providers wishing to build separate networks in Herriman.
“Some private companies offer fiber-optic internet service to certain areas in Herriman,” according to the city’s website. “Approval is given by Herriman City through franchise agreements for qualified internet service providers.”
The city commonly approves the installation of conduit tubing and cables in public right-of-way areas, including sidewalks, curbs, gutters, roadways and park strips. l
This spring, the city hopes to finalize a deal to facilitate fiber-optic development in Herriman. (Photo courtesy Pixabay)
Bastian Elementary Principal Jessica Stowe is building a strong school community.
By Jet Burnham j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
Every year, the Jordan Association of Elementary School Principals reads through piles of nominations to select a few to receive special recognition. Among this year’s award winners is Bastian Elementary Principal Jessica Stowe, who was named the Distinguished Principal of the Year.
“One of the factors that led us to selecting her was just the sheer number of nominations that she received, and the variety of people from which she received those nominations,” JAESP committee member Garett York said. “It’s obvious that regardless of what part of her community, school or employee group that she’s working with, that she’s having an impact.”
Stowe’s coworkers praised her can-do attitude and focus on maintaining school morale.
Instructional Coach Bobbie Evans said, “Jessica excels in communication, effectively engaging with teachers, students and parents. Her transparent dialogue fosters a collaborative atmosphere, enhancing both morale and student success.”
Stowe said she values relationships so she is diligent about being visible and accessible to
Distinguished Principal of the Year
students, parents and teachers.
“I’m really proud of the community that we’re building here,” Stowe said. “I love getting to know the kids in the building. We have 740 kids this year, and I work really hard to try to know almost all the kids. I don’t know all their names yet, but I’m getting close.”
She also checks in with teachers frequently, both personally and professionally.
“I deeply care about the teachers in the building and I really value building relationships with them, getting to know each one of them,” Stowe said. “They’re not just teachers, they’re people who have families and they take time out of their personal lives beyond the regular school day planning instruction for kids, thinking about what they’re going to do, responding to parents. And so I want them to know that they’re valued here, and that I know that they’re going above and beyond every single day, and I want them to feel appreciated and feel valued.”
Stowe encourages feedback and input from her teachers and often defers to their expertise for teacher-led professional development training.
“Under her guidance, this team has fostered an environment where every individual feels valued and supported and faculty members consistently commend Bastian’s culture as the most nurturing and positive they have encountered,” Evans said.
Alisha Martinez, school counselor at Bas-
tian Elementary, said Stowe is an approachable leader.
“Her supportive nature fosters a welcoming environment for both staff and students,” she said. “Jessica is always willing to share her expertise, guiding educators with her wealth of knowledge. At the same time, she encourages teachers to experiment and implement their own innovative ideas. Her balanced approach creates a dynamic and collaborative school culture.”
One of Stowe’s standout initiatives is the CARES team which assesses student attendance, behavior data and faculty wellness.
Possibly Stowe’s most impactful change has been the implementation of collaborative conversations as a school-wide instructional strategy to enhance student engagement and academic discourse. Teachers have reported more students are engaging in academic conversations including those who rarely spoke in class before.
And the academic language and vocabulary skills students have learned has translated into improved writing skills as demonstrated by a 4% increase in language arts testing scores and a 6% increase in Acadience Retell proficiency scores.
Other award winners include Principal Mentor of the Year - Ronna Hoffman, Oak Leaf Elementary; National Distinguished Assistant Principal - Kirt Davis, Terra Linda Elementary; Student Advocate Principal of the Year -Yajaira
Principal
Terra Linda Elementary; Rookie of the Year - Baylee Lansford, Jordan Hills Elementary; Innovator of the Year - Amy Adams, Fox Hollow Elementary; Community Leader of the Year - Buddy Alger, Heartland Elementary; School Improvement Leader of the Year - Keith Klein, Columbia Elementary; Instructional Leader of the Year - Melissa Beck, Jordan Ridge Elementary; and Principal Supervisor of the Year- Becky Gerber, JSD Administrator of Elementary Schools. l
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Martinez,
Distinguished
of the Year Bastian Elementary Principal Jessica Stowe. (Photo courtesy JSD.)
The South Valley Chamber held its annual State of the Chamber event and honored six community members for their contributions.
By Rebecca Olds rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com
TheSouth Valley Chamber hosted its annual State of the Chamber event at Salt Lake Community College’s Gail Miller Conference Center in Sandy.
CEO of the Chamber Jay Francis recapped the year of the Chamber. In 2024, the Chamber hosted 52 ribbon cuttings and more events, launched its first magazine, added 196 new members, grew their Women in Business program, expanded education offerings, increased advocacy efforts and expanded tourism efforts.
In particular, the Chamber’s impact on economic development and tourism in the area has been “off the charts,” Francis said— 10 events brought in more than 100,000 visitors/attendees which made a return of $24.7 million.
The chamber’s main goal is to “connect, educate, advocate, grow” local businesses in seven cities within the South Valley, including new city chamber members Herriman and Bluffdale.
At the event, six individuals within these recognized communities were honored for their work and positive impact on the community.
Heather Curtis of Swire Coca-Cola was awarded the Board Member of the Year. Rick Medina of the Mountain America Expo Center received the Tourism Award. Ashley Guymon from Adaptive Arena received the community service award. Beth Colosimo from the Mill Entrepreneurship Center at Salt Lake Community College was awarded the Business Education Award. Lew Cramer of Colliers International, Utah received the President’s Award. Mieka Sawatzki, director of sales at the City Journals was awarded the Chamber Service Award.
For her volunteer efforts in the community and for the Chamber, Cory Covington, director of Business Development for the South Valley Chamber, presented the award to Sawatzki and called her a “champion of the chamber.”
“The Chamber Service Award is meant to honor someone who has gone above and beyond to serve and promote the South Valley Chamber, Mieka Sawatzki exemplifies this as a member of our ambassadors committee,” he said. “She is supportive in so many ways, from attending ribbon cuttings to working with our new members in our chamber, 101 meetings and just being a champion of the chamber in our community, her passion is contagious. I'm honored to call her my friend and to recognize Mieka Sawatzki as the 2024 Chamber Service Award recipient.”
Sawatzki has been in the world of advertising and marketing for nearly 10 years while being at the City Journals for the past six, where she currently holds the title of Director of Sales. She has been a chamber ambassador for two and currently sits on the Chamber’s Ambassador Committee which meets once a month.
“It's a pleasure for me to rub shoulders with these ladies and gentlemen,” Francis said of the ambassadors. “They have to leave their businesses to come and help others open, but they get it—they were there and we appreciate them.”
As an ambassador, Sawatzki has attended and volunteered at chamber events such as lunches, award ceremonies, ribbon cut-
tings and more to help local businesses grow and thrive.
“With these businesses, a lot of them have no clue about marketing or advertising,” she said. “After doing sales and advertising for a long time, I have found that it is very rewarding to give them any and all of my knowledge on our products and other ways they can help themselves, whether it's with the chamber or free marketing.”
She said that when Francis told her she would be receiving the Chamber’s Service Award, she felt both surprised and validated.
“A lot of the ambassadors go to a lot of the events and give time to so that was a surprise,” she said. “It felt awesome when he told me, because I do feel like I work really hard with the Journals in partnership with the Chamber.”
In 2024, Sawatzki estimated she volunteered around 156 hours in the chamber and attended 15 to 20 ribbon cuttings. l
(from left to right) Beth Colosimo, Rick Medina, Jay Francis, Heather Curtis, Ashley Guymon and Mieka Sawatzki were honored at South Valley Chamber’s State of the Chamber event. (Photo courtesy of Hulse Photography)
Carlos Moreno: From political asylum to Salt Lake County Council
Carlos Moreno, a former political asylee from Venezuela, has become one of the first Latino members of the Salt Lake County Council to represent the communities of District 2.
By Shaun Delliskave s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com
Carlos A. Moreno took the oath of office in January 2025, making history as one of the first Latino members elected to the Salt Lake County Council. Representing District 2—which includes West Valley City, Kearns, West Jordan, South Jordan and Herriman— Moreno brings a unique perspective shaped by his experience as a political asylee from Venezuela.
Moreno’s path to public service began in Venezuela, where he completed law school with a specialization in Venezuelan labor law. As political tensions in the country grew, he became an activist, founding an organization called Venezuelan Students Abroad to denounce human rights violations.
"The entire country was divided between socialists and those who opposed the changes we were experiencing," Moreno said. "The regime became increasingly repressive and dangerous. They began killing college students."
His activism brought international attention, leading him to speak at the Organization of American States, the European Parliament, the U.S. Senate and the U.S. Congress. However, his efforts also made him a target.
"One day, I woke up to more than a thousand messages on my phone," Moreno recalled. "People were warning me that the president of the Venezuelan Parliament had charged me with treason and conspiracy on national TV the night before. Overnight, I became an enemy of the state—without a country, without a future and almost homeless."
Moreno was granted political asylum in the United States, an experience he describes as life changing. "That day was one of the most beautiful days of my life. I felt as if 50 pounds had been lifted off my shoulders. Freedom is magical, it is why we are alive."
He credits his father’s words as motivation to dedicate his life to public service: "Carlos, you are in the land of the brave, the land of freedom. If you do the right thing, you will find peace, opportunity and freedom. God bless America."
Moreno and his wife own an insurance brokerage agency, working with hundreds of clients on business and personal insurance needs. His experience as a business owner informs his approach to policy.
"As smart business owners, we value simplicity in government processes, especially when it comes to granting licenses," he said. "When you're a small business owner, your focus is on opening your business and making it successful. That’s why we need to
design the most efficient ways to expedite the licensing process."
Moreno plans to create an advisory board in collaboration with local chambers of commerce. "Small businesses are the heart of our economy and we need to find ways to support them."
Having witnessed the collapse of democratic institutions in Venezuela, Moreno emphasizes the importance of civic engagement.
"Fighting socialism for 25 years of your life is like earning a Ph.D. in Freedom Studies," he said. "We lost our country in less than two decades because our people were too lazy to get involved and be civically engaged at the beginning of Hugo Chávez’s regime."
Moreno encourages citizens to participate in politics. "America needs new leaders, especially young ones with a clear vision of today’s world."
As the first Latino and naturalized U.S. citizen elected to Salt Lake County office, Moreno sees his role as one of listening and acting on behalf of his constituents.
"As an immigrant, you develop special attributes such as patience, humility, resilience and perseverance," he said. "As public servants, we are here to listen and serve, not to give our constituents lectures or classes on anything. Our duty is to find solutions for everyone."
District 2 is among the most diverse areas in the county. "From Herriman to Magna, every city has its own identity, needs and goals. That’s why I spend time with my constituents; to listen, learn and act."
Public safety is one of Moreno’s key priorities. He is working closely with law enforcement to bridge the gap between communities and police agencies.
"I have a deep respect for our police offi-
cers and law enforcement agencies," he said. "I am meeting with police chiefs and law enforcement agencies to put myself at their service while also serving as a liaison to our constituents."
Moreno is planning to establish a West Side Safety Advisory Committee to address public safety concerns. "I want my constituents to know about the wonderful work law enforcement does every day for our communities. Even as a candidate, I was actively working with some police departments on investigations in my district."
Moreno has made fiscal responsibility a priority, advocating for a more efficient county government.
"We need to rein in taxes and spending while ensuring county services remain effective," he said. "That’s why I am leading efforts to streamline services, eliminate duplication and consolidate programs where necessary."
His plan includes increased budget oversight and performance-based funding. "Each department must justify its funding based on results, not just maintaining budgets. We’re focusing on outcomes to ensure that taxpayers’ money is being spent wisely."
He is also working to establish regular efficiency audits. "This will help us identify waste and inefficiency so that we can make the most of every dollar spent."
Outside of politics, Moreno is a devoted husband and father of three boys. "I have been married to my beautiful wife for 15 years, and our sons train in Taekwondo. We also have an English bulldog named Bruno."
Reflecting on his journey, Moreno remains grateful for the opportunities he has found in the United States.
"America is not a dream; America is a miracle," he said.l
Carlos Moreno holds a picture of himself standing with his father while he is sworn in to the county council. (Photo courtesy Carlos Moreno)
Carlos Moreno speaks at the Hispanic Heritage Congressional Awards held at the State Capitol. (Photo courtesy Carlos Moreno)
Carlos Moreno stands with his family after being sworn in on the county council. (Photo courtesy Carlos Moreno)
Amateur performers entertain the community at Daybreak’s Got Talent
City residents, families and performers crowded into the Herriman High School auditorium.
By Laura Spendlove Crapo l.crapo@mycityjournals.com
Daybreak’s Got Talent on Feb. 28 was an over-all positive group event. City residents, families and performers crowded into the Herriman High School auditorium with big smiles. There were no side-eyed glances between the entertainers nor the general supporters. The feeling of support and appreciation for those sharing their talents felt good.
The evening’s Master of Ceremonies was Tyrone Foster who started by hyping up the crowd to increase the anticipation. He introduced the competition’s three judges. These judges were needed to critique the various talents coming their way.
John Sweeney has been a performing arts performer and director veteran for over 50 years. The other two judges are Daybreak residents. Heather Jackman is an acclaimed vocalist having sung the national anthem for major Utah sports teams and at the 2023 Stadium of Fire. Thad Weiland is an active LiveDaybreak volunteer who is passionate about performing and entertaining audiences.
DANCE
The first beautiful dance performance was given by Daybreak’s Got Talent’s youngest
talent, Sasha Turteltaub. The choreographed grace continued with Katie McEntire’s dynamic piece. They both showed a combination of grace, flexibility, acrobatics and strength.
GROUP PERFORMANCES
The BeBops kicked off those performing vocally and instrumentally as a group with their history together. The Kensington Klassics showed their well-polished skills labeled as Strings and Singing. A beautiful duet musical number was then performed by Sierra Johnson and Carson Ferris.
SOLO INSTRUMENTAL
The first entry in this category, performing with an energetic combination of guitar, harmonica, self-made ankle tambourine and a bass drum, was Austin Tyler. A beautiful piano piece was then played by Elizabeth Flores. Also on the piano with his expertly crafted melodies was Steve Buhler. Jieun (Cassie) Reed changed instrument choices when she expertly played “You Lift me Up” on her flute.
When asked by a judge if she was a ‘flutist’ or a ‘flautist,’ she said she didn’t know because she is from South Korea and wasn’t sure. However you say it, her playing was wonderful.
SINGING
Meira Taylor was the first vocalist which was a success with her rich and practiced voice. The next solo artist to sing beautifully was Elijah Bendock. Playing her uniquely beautiful guitar, Sage Mercedes sang along with a well-done, self-written song. Then, Galo Lastra
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We are the bridge between businesses and the community in Bluffdale, Herriman, and Riverton.
Mountain West Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Community Growth
The Mountain West Chamber of Commerce is excited to introduce our new Business-of-theMonth program! Each month, we will recognize a local business for its outstanding service and community involvement. Our first honoree is Salsa Leedos Mexican Restaurant—stop by their location at 13298 Market Center St., Riverton to enjoy a delicious meal and show your support.
Do you know a business that deserves the spotlight? Let us know—we’d love to celebrate them!
Teacher Appreciation is Almost Here!
We’re gearing up to honor 35 incredible educators, and we need your help! If you’d like to support local teachers, we’re looking for:
✔ Lunch attendees
✔ Swag bag gifts
✔ Event sponsors
This year’s theme is “Teachers Are the Real Superheroes!” Let’s show our appreciation in a big way. Contact the Mountain West Chamber to get involved!
broke the mold when he sang a strong and soaring opera number.
UNIQUE
Sierra Champion did not fit with any of the other categories with her energetic Hula Hoop Juggling and Acrobatics performance. The next unique performance was the event’s encore performance played by the 2024 Daybreak’s Got Talent winner Elliott Mitchell. He enjoyed enthusiastically playing his guitar while the judges carefully decided on this year’s winners.
EVENT SUMMARY
Daybreak’s Got Talent is made possible with the generous support of the Salt Lake County Zoo, Arts & Parks Grant, which helps bring arts and cultural experiences to the community. The Grand Prize was $500 and the winner could donate the evening’s proceeds to the nonprofit organization of their choice.
Daybreak’s Got Talent winners were Sierra Champion coming in third, Galo Lastra was the second-place winner and Austin Tyler and his one-man band won the competition. Due to the recent suicide of his dear friend, Austin chose the proceeds be given to ‘i love you, bro’ which is a suicide prevention group. l
The BeBops introduce their group music number. (Laura Crapo/City Journals)
Sierra Champion wins her hula hoop juggling and acrobatic performance. (Laura Crapo/City Journals)
Youngest performer of the Sasha Turteltaub. (Laura Crapo/City Journals)
Austin Tyler’s one-man band. (Laura Crapo/City Journals)
Jieun (Cassie) Reed plays “You Lift Me Up.” (Laura Crapo/City Journals)
EDUCATION SECTION
SheTech Day sparks creativity and curiosity into next-gen tech leaders
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Ninth-grader Julia Ashby, of Riverview Junior High in Murray, wanted to explore AI and ChatGPT while Hadley Miller, a Draper Park Middle School student, was looking into college chemical engineering programs. Callyn Mortensen, a ninth grader at Sunset Ridge Middle School in West Jordan, was discovering more about coding and freshman Chelsea Baker, from Brighton High in Cottonwood Heights, was investigating various technology-related careers at the event.
These students were among the 3,000 girls from ninth to 12th grade who attended SheTech Explorer Day, an event designed to introduce girls to the world of technology in a fun, engaging atmosphere. During the event, they had the opportunity to meet STEM role models and discover a wide array of opportunities in the field.
Throughout the morning, girls from high schools across the state participated in more than 40 workshops focused on topics such as programming, engineering, aerospace, robotics, product invention, entrepreneurship, biomedicine, digital marketing, web design and gaming.
In addition, they had the chance to experience the interactive TechZone, where local STEM companies and educational institutions provided opportunities to learn about internships, programs and industry experiences.
The day wrapped up with a collaborative small group exercise in which the girls worked together to brainstorm, innovate and pitch solutions in a TechChallenge, all while being guided by industry mentors.
Students learned about the event through fliers posted at schools, emails from counselors or by hearing from teachers in various classes ranging from interior design to computer science to manufacturing technology.
Hailey Derr, a ninth grader at Cottonwood High in Murray, wanted to explore
biomedical engineering careers, so she visited her career center and discovered the event was a good opportunity. She’s already planning to take medical terminology and medical math next year.
Reagan Fairchild, a ninth grader from Sunset Ridge, was learning “how they keep patients safe during surgery and other cool things in the medical field” as she explored the TechZone.
Sydney Birk from Draper Park Middle School had just finished astronaut training.
“I was clicking a button to spawn an object and grab it or flick it to a target; if I hit the target, it gave a score,” she said. “It was fun. I want to be an astronaut and this is better than online simulations.”
Rylee Blackwell from Hidden Valley Middle School in Bluffdale was trying out Alexa glasses.
“I like how you can hear music and nobody else can,” she said. “I was in my own little world while there’s so many people here. It was relaxing.”
Retired electrical engineer Shari Mann demonstrated how to use the Alexa glasses with built-in microphones, offering a hands-free experience.
“I'm really passionate about inspiring girls to go into engineering,” she said. “I like how excited the girls are to try on the Alexa glasses and not just learn how they work, but understand it.”
Mann’s father encouraged her to pursue engineering back when there were “just a handful of females studying engineering” at the University of Texas in the late 1980s. She has since programmed microchips and holds patents in the field.
“I always say, engineers invent the world, and we need all different kinds of people represented in inventing this world; it’s a great career and it’s been fun,” Mann said.
Sydney Birk from Draper Park Middle School took part of virtual reality astronaut training during SheTech Explorer Day. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
During SheTech Explorer Day, ninth-graders Julia Ashby, Lexie Nelson and Aubrey Clayton of Riverview Junior High in Murray experimented with InstaSnow. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
From seed to sale: Entrada’s botany program offers hands-on learning
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Every year, just around Mother’s Day, Entrada High School hosts a plant sale, offering a wide variety of plants “dirt cheap.”
Patrons can find packs of Roma, cheery, and large tomatoes, as well as sweet and hot peppers, often selling for just a few dollars. There are also herbs like basil, parsley, oregano, rosemary, and others, along with geraniums and coleus.
These plants, and others sold at the event, provide valuable hands-on training for adult students working toward their high school diploma or GED, while also earning science and elective credits. The proceeds from the sale are reinvested into the program, buying supplies for the next year.
The botany-greenhouse program has been running this way since teacher Anita Leimbach and community education facilitator Cheri Prince took it over in 2014 after the previous instructor retired. While Prince now helps coordinate the sale, David Dau joined as the new instructor four years ago.
“These students learn how to be responsible,” Leimbach said. “One student could screw up hundreds of plants in 20 minutes if they don’t listen to directions. The sale from last year gives us the money to buy the soil and the pots for this year. So, they're all trading on last year's good students.”
In early March, the class was transplanting coleus into larger pots. Three teenage boys worked side by side.
Senior Sajjad Alsarifee, who hopes to grow a lawn in his yard, explained transplanting is important. His friend, junior Mohamed Hameed, said it helps the roots spread out.
Junior Khalid Khudair explained: “The roots are too smashed in together; when they germinate, you have to make sure they have space to live in. Being compact isn’t good.”
The boys came to Entrada for different reasons, none of which involved becoming botanists.
“I came because I wanted to get my credits finished faster and I can test out of classes,” Hameed said. “I’m getting science credit and it’s hands-on, which makes it more fun than some other classes. I like that we give back to the community when they buy the plants. It provides students more opportunities.”
Khudair, who had missed 1.5 months of class while on a vacation, was catching up on credits, while Alsarifee admitted he had skipped class his sophomore year.
“I always had something better
to do, like walk around,” he said. “I’ve made up a lot of credits here.”
Leimbach said her students come from a variety of backgrounds, including those who speak English as a second language, as well as students who are homeless or autistic.
“This is a rewarding class for many of our students. We’ve had students who excel in this who don't academically because it's hands-on; that's the difference. Everybody can do it, and some of these are smart kids. It just does my heart good to see these kids who have struggled to do so well. It’s the beauty of this program. They see progress and get to see projects completed. They come and see the plants remembering they may have transplanted them or made cuttings and now they’re in bloom,” she said, adding, “Some of them never even knew where a tomato came from.”
Typically, about 15 students attend the class twice a week for two hours. The course lasts about a month and counts toward the 24 credits Entrada students need for graduation. Currently, most of the 800 Entrada students are between the ages of 17 and 20.
“We have at least one botany class every session. Dave often will do it in the summer. Then come January, we offer two classes till May, which is more than we’ve had in the past. They always fill up,” she said.
Junior Jade Shafer-Pedersen has taken the class five times.
“I love this class,” she said. “It just gives me an outlet for creativity and it’s a personal connection between me and the plants. It just gives me a sense of peace in my school day, it's a nice safe space. I’m proud of these little guys for growing. I've learned so much from this class. I've only really grown house plants before and now, I’ll probably play with plants for the rest of my life. Anita and Dave are good teachers. They let us do our thing and then help us when we need it.”
When Shafer-Pedersen came to Entrada, she had “zero credits.”
“I never went to high school before. When the whole COVID virus happened, everyone went home from school, and I never went back. I never stepped foot in high school,” she said. “I never thought I would come back until I tried Entrada. I love it here. It’s so different.”
After finishing transplanting, Shafer-Pedersen and the others asked if they should remove the growth from the geraniums, deposit old soil and move the bags of new soil into the greenhouse.
“That's another thing I like,” Leimbach said. “They say, ‘Should I do this? They know what needs to be done and take that initiative. They care about the plants and the program.”
The program has blossomed over the years. It’s no longer just rows of plants in the greenhouse. In a portable classroom under lights, 4,000 plants are growing. By the time the sale comes around, there will be 2,400 tomatoes,
3,400 squash and cucumbers, and 2,000 peppers, in addition to geraniums, coleus, and house plants.
“When Dave was hired, he brought it to another level. He built the grow stations, and they germinate better there than the greenhouse because we could keep them a steady temperature. Then we bring them all over to the greenhouse. He’s also done hydroponics in the winter in the classroom, so the students are learning about that. Every year we learn to make it easier, so students can have a lot of success, and we get better results. He’s taken it to a more scientific level where I come from a gardener perspective,” she said.
Dau not only helps with the 10,000plus plants at Entrada, he has set up a 3,000-plant sale at nearby Jordan Valley, a school for students that have severe multiple disabilities including autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, seizure disorders, communication impairments, genetic disorders and syndromes, deaf–blindness and, for students who are extremely medically fragile.
He also runs a business from home, selling about 1,500 plants.
“Once we set the expectations for the class, everyone realizes the relevancy. They learn how to set up the greenhouse, how to plant with healthy soil, how to water correctly, how to work as a team. Anita helps them understand the importance of the plants and the process; I’m the mad scientist,” said Dau,
Junior Jade Shafer-Pedersen said working in Entrada’s greenhouse gives her an outlet for creativity and connection with the plants. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Entrada students Mohamed Hameed, Khalid Khudair and Sajjad Alsarifee water the plants after transplanting them. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
who has taken Utah State University’s master gardening class three times as “there’s always something new to learn.”
The former school principal said students get dirty in the self-sustaining program.
“They’re learning how to propagate plants, transplant them into pots, grow lettuce and kale in hydroponics using a water-based nutrient solution rather than soil, they’re learning that a controlled atmosphere and soil temperature has helped growth, so they’re learning the science behind it,” he said. “They’re understanding plants and what they need.”
He explained students gain confidence by realizing they can grow plants without killing them, that asking logical questions will get them answers, and that giving plants attention is key to their success.
“Growing plants is part art and part science. For many, this is outside their comfort zone so they’re learning to work in teams as they learn new skills and vocabulary, to take direction and work with others, to be resilient and to appreciate a job well done,” he said.
Working with some of his immigrant students has led Entrada to grow plants native to their homelands.
“Some of them are really excited they can grow plants in their apartments that are important to the foods of their culture,” Dau said.
This has also expanded the variety of produce grown. The program typically grows 36 varieties of tomatoes, six varieties of hot and sweet peppers, six annual herbs, six perennial herbs, and four types of basil.
Through the plant sale, Dau said the community doesn’t just come for “cheap plants.”
“It’s building a community for students. We aren’t a traditional high school where you rally around a sports game or a performing arts performance. We’re providing goodwill for the community and they’re providing support for our students.”
Continued from front page
Jenny Curtis, Jordan School District’s work-based learning assistant, said the opportunity is incredible for girls.
“It’s cool, just to see all of these industries here, providing support and information and bringing all of these wonderful, mostly ladies, in tech,” she said. “It’s an amazing opportunity for girls to see what's happening in the field.”
Eileen Kasteler, Brighton High’s workbased learning facilitator, has brought students to the event for years and appreciates the event’s accessibility.
“It’s astonishing that a professional event of this caliber is free to girls year after
Making Lucas smile
By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
Antelope Canyon Elementary third-grader Lucas Ellis has been dealing with leukemia since 2023, with treatments, hospitalizations and medications, but one of the hardest things about the experience for the happy and social kid has been missing school.
“He has always been a very social kid— he thrives in having those interactions with his friends,” his mom, Marcela Ellis said. “When he first was diagnosed, we did a lot of online classes, which were helpful, but we could see that his emotional well-being wasn't being taken care of as well as we wanted it to be.”
When Lucas’ illness relapsed in January, his teacher Megan Dotson stepped into action to create ways for Lucas to remain connected to her, his classmates and the classroom.
She made T-shirts with Lucas’ signature smile and blue glasses which all her students and those in Lucas’ two siblings’ classes, as well as staff members and parents wear each Friday (which Dotson calls Lucas Friday.)
Through a foundation called Monkey in My Chair, Dotson arranged for a lovable stuffed monkey to sit in Lucas’ seat when he is not able to come to class. Students tote the monkey with them to the library, lunch and PE class, and send Lucas pictures of his adventures to help him feel included.
“We love getting the pictures of George the Monkey playing in the parachutes, or going to recess or at lunch—he loves it,” Ellis said. “What he considers the fun, the ‘not school stuff,’ he doesn't get to be part of that, so getting the pictures of the monkey and the letters describing all those things— he loves it.”
Dotson said the monkey sitting in his chair has helped students not forget about Lucas.
“Putting him in our room, it honestly feels whole again,” she said.
Students also stay in communication with Lucas by sending notes to him through a class mailbox. Dotson said she always emphasizes kindness and inclusion in her class-
year,” she said. “I like how the student ambassadors greet new girls, making it personal and welcoming.”
Gretel Diederich, a junior at Alta High in Sandy, completed her first year on the SheTech student board.
“I like the program and wanted to keep it going, so I thought the best way was to be an ambassador and support it,” she said. “I like exploring the booths and love talking to all the people to learn about all the programs I don’t know about. I also really love the girls. I made friends two years ago, and I still talk to them when I see them here. It says a lot about the SheTech community and the people.”
room but the last few months have given her students opportunities to put those values into practice.
“I've watched the empathy in each of these little kids grow by a million and a half,” Dotson said. “They just talk about it all the time, how excited they are for Lucas Friday, or how they're going to grab an extra this or whatever at home to put in his mailbox, or things like that. And just watching them care for someone else has been really, really cool, and then come up with ideas of how we're going to, or what we're going to say, or what they'd like to do to show him love. I encourage that a lot in this room, but I have watched it grow tremendously in the last little bit.”
Dotson comes to Lucas’ home to work with him regularly. She also visits him when he is in the hospital. Lucas said all the support from his teacher and classmates feels “awesome.”
Ellis said the support has been incredible.
“It makes him feel like people are there,
She was joined by her sister, freshman Leslie, who appreciated the event's schedule of workshops, and Alta High junior Audrey Semler, who was enjoying engaging with industry experts and participants.
“I love the energy here; everyone is having fun and it’s easy to talk to everyone,” she said. “I learned about different organizations for internships and college programs and scholarships.”
Kaitlin White, a freshman from Brighton, was eager to explore the booths at the TechZone, where girls could try several interactive activities as well as sample a new Coca-Cola flavor to checking out a Cybertruck. They could even test angular
even if he can't see them and if he can't hang out with them, people are there for him,” she said. “It's made a huge impact on his well-being emotionally. We noticed that when he is in a good mood or in a good emotional state, he recovers from the chemo or the procedures a lot quicker than when he's sad or feeling a little bit depressed.”
She said it was such a relief when Dotson took the initiative to arrange the zoom calls and the plan for keeping Lucas up with his classwork.
“That was a huge burden that she lifted,” she said. “As a family, we were worrying about all these other things that we had to do—his medication, finding a donor—all of it—and to not have to worry about that was just incredible.”
At the end of February, Lucas received a school-wide superhero’s farewell as he left school to prepare for a bone marrow transplant, which will keep him out of school for at least a year.
momentum.
“I find STEM stuff interesting, and I want to learn what I can do in the future in a tech career,” she said. “I also want to be a sci fi author so this definitely helps with that.”
Near the area where robotic cars were being driven, Riverview Junior High ninthgrade students Lexie Nelson and Aubrey Clayton were experimenting with InstaSnow.
“There's so many more careers than I thought there would be here; it’s awesome,” Clayton said. Nelson added: “It’s all fun; I love the women empowerment.”
Megan Dotson leads her student Lucas Ellis through a hero’s farewell given by his classmates as he leaves school to prepare for a bone marrow transplant. (Kraig Williams/JSD)
New staff has Mountain Ridge boys lacrosse feeling optimistic
Head coach Justin Rigby is now in charge of the Mountain Ridge lacrosse team. The Sentinels have renewed excitement and a strong competitive spirit.
By Josh McFadden
There’s a new coach leading the Mountain Ridge boys lacrosse team, and he has his players feeling positive about the 2025 season.
Justin Rigby was hired to take over the program. He inherited a team that went 5-12 last season and finished fifth in Region 2 with a 3-7 record. The year before, the sentinels were 6-11 overall and 3-3 in league play. Despite the recent struggles, Mountain Ridge has high hopes this season. Players and coaches are eager to see what the team is made of.
“The team is energized and eager for the season to begin,” Rigby said. “With a strong core of returning players and a fresh perspective from the new coaching staff, there’s a renewed sense of enthusiasm and focus. The offseason was highly productive, with players committing to strength training, conditioning and sharpening their fundamentals. The transition to the new coaching system has been smooth, and the team has embraced the changes with a determined mindset. There’s a strong sense of unity and a shared goal of competing at a high level. We’re
looking forward to testing ourselves against the competition in the state.”
Rigby was complimentary of the previous coaching staff and those players who have helped build the program since boys lacrosse was sanctioned as a high school sport in 2021. He wants to take what other Mountain Ridge teams have done well and improve on those aspects. He’s looking for the players to learn, improve and play together as a unit.
“Our primary goal is to elevate the program and build on Mountain Ridge’s strong tradition established by previous coaching staff and alumni,” he said. “Competing for a region title is always a priority, but our success will be defined by consistent growth and development throughout the season. We’ve set clear team goals that emphasize improving fundamentals, increasing lacrosse IQ and building team chemistry. By focusing on these areas, we aim to play our best lacrosse when it matters most—at the end of the season.”
The Sentinels got off to a good start this season, winning their first two games. Mountain Ridge crushed Roy to open the 2025 campaign on March 5 by the count of 15-1 and then got by Wasatch on the road on March 7, 10-5. After two games, Rigby pointed out some strengths the players exhibited. He’s excited to see his team continue to evolve and be ready to compete against the top teams in the region and Class 6A. So far, he has been impressed with the defense.
“To start the season, our defense looks strong, bringing intensity every day while improving their footwork and physicality,” Rigby said. “Our defense is anchored by senior goalie Matthew Wittwer, who is poised for a breakout season. Senior Brody Gardner (committed to University of Mount Olive), junior Tyler Rominger and senior Logan Kemp form a tough defensive unit, making it difficult for opponents to get good shots off. Their communication and aggressive play set the tone for the team. Additionally, our midfielders contribute to defensive stands and quick transitions, adding another lay-
er of strength to our game. Our defensive midfield unit is anchored by Linkoln Archibald, a senior.”
Rigby is focusing on improving the offense and its production. He said there are talented players in the offensive lineup but the players “need to gel together.”
“We’re focusing on improving our ball movement, shot selection and overall communication on the field,” Rigby said. “Additionally, we want to refine our transition game and capitalize on fast-break opportunities.”
The top offensive player is junior JT Rigby, who has already committed to play at the next level for the University of Utah. He scored 8 goals and had five assists through the first two games. Junior Gavin Gurr, senior Dallin Adair, senior Kade Pierce, senior Kanin Cerise, senior Brock Cutler, senior Brock Buckmelter and senior Ivan Pineda (who has committed to Earlham College) are other offensive standouts for the Sentinels.
As a new coach at Mountain Ridge, Rigby is grateful for the opportunity he has to lead the team. He praises his predecessors and appreciates the strong group of seniors on his squad. Rigby is intent on making this the best season possible and helping the players have a positive experience.
“First, we want to acknowledge and appreciate the former coaching staff, led by head coach Trent Bangert,” Rigby said. “They laid a strong foundation when the school first opened, creating a great tradition and a passionate lacrosse community. Now, with our new coaching staff, I’m excited about the direction we’re heading. We bring diverse experiences in lacrosse, strength and conditioning and sports science, which have helped drive this team’s development. More importantly, we are united in our mission to elevate the players’ experience and set higher expectations for success. This year we have a large group of seniors and we want to make their final season unforgettable. Our focus is on developing them as athletes and leaders while ensuring they leave with lifelong memories, a strong work ethic and a deep love for the game.” l
Mountain Ridge boys lacrosse players get ready to take the field in the season opener against Roy on March 5. (Photo courtesy Dave Allen)
Herriman girls golf team zeroing in on state title
The high school girls golf season has begun, and the Herriman Mustangs could be one of Class 6A’s top teams.
By Josh McFadden
In high school golf, the boys hit the links in the fall; in the spring, it’s the girls’ turn.
Herriman High School had a nice season last spring, placing seventh in the Class 6A state tournament. The Mustangs were third among Region 2 teams, finishing behind Corner Canyon and Bingham, which were fourth and fifth in state, respectively.
The Mustangs qualified six players for state a season ago, and all six were underclassmen. That means this year’s squad has plenty of firepower and experience. Head coach Nicholas Redd highlighted Hallie Sant, Loren Powell and Natalie McLane as the team’s top players. McLane, a senior, was fourth in the state tournament last season, shooting a +10, 12 shots behind the winner. Sant, a junior, tied for 16th with a +21 at last season’s tournament, while Powell shot a +55 to place at No. 51. Powell returns this season as a senior.
“I love their poise, precision and power,” Redd said of the trio and the other girls
on the team.
In addition, Redd said the Mustangs enjoy an enviable blend of experience and youth. Herriman has a full complement of players of all grades, meaning this season and beyond could be successful for the program.
“Our strength is our returning seniors,” Redd said. “Our younger class is very strong.”
Redd said the team’s short game needs some work for the Mustangs to be a factor at state. He said he wants to see the girls improve their chipping and putting. Another challenge the team is sure to face is its schedule. The Mustangs won’t have any easy matches or tournaments, with Region 2 posing formidable opposition.
As the season got underway, Redd was pleased with the girls’ attitude and mindset. He said there is optimism, excitement and positivity everywhere. The team’s goal is simple: bring home a first-place trophy after the state tournament.
“The girls want to follow the plan and the routine,” Redd said. “They want to take state. I want them to grow individually as players and as a team. Our goal is to win the state tournament.” If the girls work hard and align with Redd’s vision and philosophy, he said they can achieve Herriman’s goal of being the No. 1 team in 6A.
He said simple, everyday steps will lead to the results the team wants. The Mustangs are also striving to develop a cohesive group with good chemistry where every player knows her role and contributes to the overall success of the group.
“We need to show up to practice and be a great player and teammate,” Redd said. Herriman will go up against fellow Region 2 teams during the regular season to prepare for the state tournament. In addi-
What to know about visiting the E.R.
By Dr. Alex Drake
At CommonSpirit Health, our vision is a healthier future for all – inspired by faith, driven by innovation, and powered by our humanity. This extends to all the care we provide our patients, whether it be in our doctor’s offices, our clinics, or our hospitals.
We want your visit to our care sites to be as comfortable as possible, and we know that visiting the Emergency Department (ER) is difficult for any patient and their loved ones. I would like to share some information about what to expect in the ER, so that you can be as prepared as possible.
Our emergency caregivers are here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to serve our community. We accept all patients – regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. A typical visit to the ER can take two-to-three hours, but please know that in the ER we must evaluate and treat our patients based on severity of their condition. This might mean longer wait times in the lobby or even after being placed in an exam room. However, this also means that if you’re having a life-threatening emergency, you will have the undivided attention of our doctors and nurses.
If you have mild-to-moderate symptoms – such as fever below 103 degrees without a rash, flu-like symptoms without shortness of breath, or sprains and strains – you may wish to consider calling your primary care provider or visiting an urgent care center, as these options may be faster and are often less expensive.
Symptoms or health issues that require immediate medical attention may include the following:
• Chest pain
• Sudden weakness or trouble talking
• Difficulty breathing
• Spinal injuries
• Severe head injury
• Major broken bones
• Major burns
• Sudden change in vision
• Heavy bleeding
• Large open wounds
You should never drive yourself to an ER if you are having severe chest pain, severe bleeding, if you feel like you might faint, or if your vision is impaired. When in doubt, please call 911 — what matters most is that you get to the emergency room quickly and safely. If you arrive by
ambulance, you will be triaged and we will determine the level of care required.
All emergency physicians at CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospitals are board certified in Emergency Medicine and have trained for many years to help you in your emergency. The doctors also have specially trained midlevel providers who can also help. Your provider may order tests like X-rays, CT Scans, Ultrasounds, bloodwork, urinalysis, an electrocardiogram (EKG), or others, depending on your health problem.
After receiving test results, the doctor will discuss the findings and diagnosis with you. If needed, they will advise admission to the hospital. If your condition does not need admission, they will give you written instructions about treatment to be followed at home. This may include prescriptions, tips for home care, and any referrals needed for following up with either a primary care or specialized doctor. While we hope for the health and safety of those in our community, know that we are here if you need us. Our excellent doctors and nurses at CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospitals are ready to provide high-quality, compassionate, and timely care.
tion to Corner Canyon and Bingham, region foes are Mountain Ridge, Copper Hills and Riverton. The 6A state tournament is set for May 19 and 20 at Meadow Brook Golf Course in Taylorsville. Class 6A has some excellent teams, including Region 3’s Lone Peak, which was first in state a year ago, as well as Region 1 schools Fremont and Weber, which placed two and three, respectively, last season. l
As 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.
By Dr. Alex Drake
The Herriman girls golf team is eager to prove itself against the best teams in the state. (Photo courtesy Nicholas Redd)
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Excitement at all-time high for Herriman track
The Herriman track team has enjoyed great success over the past few years. Head coach Doug Soles expects that to continue this season.
By Josh McFadden
Coming off a strong 2024 season, the Herriman track and field team has every reason to be optimistic about 2025.
At last season’s Class 6A state meet, the Mustangs were fourth on the boys’ side, while the girls placed sixth overall. Head coach Doug Soles said this season could be even better and that his team looks to be the most talented he has had.
“This has been the best start I’ve seen for a Herriman team I’ve coached in track,” Soles said. “There is lots of buzz and there are lots of new kids. Everyone is excited to be on the team. It has really been a change in culture over the years to finally have a team that is ready to go after it and show what they can do. I think this will be one of the most focused groups we have ever seen on our team.”
With its depth, experience and talent,
along with some promising newcomers, Herriman could be one of the favorites in 6A. Soles said his biggest goal for the squad is for the team members to be at their best in the most important meets. Soles has lofty expectations for his athletes—on both the state and national levels.
“I think the big thing is everyone just focusing on improving and being ready for the big meets this season,” he said. “Bigmeet performance will be a main expectation. We have some top-end guys who have targeted some top finishes at state and maybe even going after the 4x800 relay national record this year.”
Soles has emphasized the importance of creating a strong program—one that the team members and the entire school can be proud of. Dedication, effort and focus are traits and actions that he pushes every day.
“To be successful, we need to continue to build a positive, hard-working culture at the school for track,” Soles said. “If we do that, it will be a successful year. I’m hopeful that this will be our biggest and most competitive team yet.”
Herriman has a good mix of upperclassmen and younger athletes, so both the present and future are bright for the team.
provements the groups are making.
“The distance team is always strong, but our pole vault program is really ready to put up some solid points this season,” he said. “Our boys sprints team that was mostly ninth graders when I took over in 2022 is now chock-full of fast seniors, so we should be much more competitive on the sprints side this year as well.”
Senior Tayshaun Ogomo is one to watch in the 1600- and 800-meter races. Fellow seniors Jonah Tang, Micah Tang and Noah Manwaring specialize in the 1600 and 3200 events, and all three have excelled in the early going this season. Soles also likes another 1600/3200 competitor, junior Jackson Spencer. Senior Zeke Kearney runs the 400 and 200 relay events, while sophomore Krew Olson is a standout in the 100, long jump and relay events. Senior Max Blankenship (100, 200 and relays) and senior Ryan Snedaker (400, 200 and relays) are also key contributors.
The girls team has plenty of talent too, with senior Maci Woolf recording good times in the 1600 and 3200. Another senior, Claire Hoenes, also runs the 1600 and 3200, giving the Mustangs a good onetwo punch in those events. Junior Lindsay Gerhart runs the 1600 and 800, while Halle Willardson is a multi-faceted athlete who can run the 100, 200 and relays, while also competing in the long jump. Ellie Elkins and Savannah Berbert are skilled pole vaulters. The girls team’s top javelin thrower is Keira Stephany.
“This is a really hard-working group that shows up,” Soles said. “Not every group is that way, but these kids really want to be good. It is fun to watch that kind of team improve week in and week out.”
Because Herriman has one of the state’s premier cross country teams, it’s no surprise that the track team’s distance runners are so good. But Soles is also excited about the pole vaulting and sprinting im -
Historically, Herriman has not had as much success in the throwing events (javelin, shot put), but Soles hopes that will change this season.
New assistant coach Amelia Paasi is overseeing the throwing athletes. Soles said he is looking forward to watching this group get better and to seeing them compete against the top teams in the state.
“A big area for us is improvement in the throws,” he said. “Coach Paasi takes over the throws group and is looking to surprise with how fast they will be a competitive group. I’m excited to see their results at mid-season when it starts coming together.”
Another event, hurdles, is an area that concerns Soles. The Mustangs aren’t as deep in this event, so he’s working hard to develop his athletes and find team members who can step up and fill these crucial roles.
“We have struggled to replace some of our top hurdlers from the last couple years, so that will be something we will need to overcome this season: developing hurdle crew,” Soles said. l
The Herriman girls track team placed sixth in Class 6A last season. The girls and boys teams at Herriman figure to be among the top teams in 6A in 2025. (Photo courtesy Doug Soles)
4/2/25
4/3/25
4/10/25
8 ways to make the most of early spring
By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com
AlthoughApril weather can be unpredictable, it’s time to pack up the snow boots and head outside. After months of snuggling under blankets and staying home during cold nights, April gives us a glimpse of warmth and a promise of sunnier skies. Participate in some of these early spring activities that invite color, interaction and community back into life.
VISIT THE JORDAN RIVER PARKWAY
Whether you walk, jog or cycle, the Jordan River Parkway offers 45 miles of trail systems that run along the Jordan River. From the Great Salt Lake to Utah Lake, and all the communities in between, the trail is perfect for exercising, bird watching and learning about the natural world. For maps and information, visit JordanRiverCommission.gov.
THANKSGIVING POINT TULIP FESTIVAL
Described by author E.M. Forster as “A tray of jewels”, tulips are on colorful display during this annual event in Lehi. The festival features nearly 1 million flowers, including tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and poppies at Ashton Gardens in Thanksgiving Point. It is open Monday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., through May 17. Visit ThanksgivingPoint.org for details.
PLAN A WEEKEND TRIP
It’s shoulder season at Utah’s national and state parks. Tourism doesn’t usually start until May, so April is the perfect time to plan a weekend getaway. Hike to Delicate Arch in Moab, check out the dinosaurs in Vernal or hit a golf course in St. George. Pack snacks, make a road trip playlist and enjoy the sunshine. Go to VisitUtah.com to plan your trip.
START YOUR GARDEN
The growing season has begun. Prepare
garden beds for spring by loosening compact soil, adding compost and mulch, and cleaning and sharpening garden tools. On a warm weekend, you can also plant seeds like radish, spinach, beet, potato, carrots, and parsley. Western Gardens (4050 W. 4100 South) has experts who can answer your questions. Visit WesternGardens.com for more information.
CELEBRATE EARTH WEEK (APRIL 16-22)
Tuesday, April 22 is the 55th anniversary of Earth Day and an opportunity to join millions of people worldwide who spend the day cleaning and restoring Mother Earth. Look for events in your area or plan a cleanup event in your neighborhood or local park. Get Earth Day ideas at Almanac.com.
TRY A NEW OUTDOOR HOBBY
April’s weather invites you to go outside. Learning something new is a fun way to welcome spring, especially when it provides outdoor opportunities. Take a lesson in nature photography or Dutch oven cooking. Learn to mountain bike on nearby trails. Try your hand at kite flying, archery or fly tying. Be creative and discover something new.
HOST A SPRING-THEMED BRUNCH
Clean off the patio and invite friends for a seasonal meal with fresh spring vegetables and fun cocktails. Lemon pasta, asparagus risotto and berry desserts are perfect for the season. Create a mimosa bar with fruit juices and prosecco or sparkling water. TasteofHome.com has dozens of fun recipes.
STAR PARTY ON ANTELOPE ISLAND
Join the Ogden Astronomical Society on Saturday, April 19 at 6 p.m. for an evening of star gazing. Meet at White Rocky Bay where telescopes will be set up to look at the sun (through safe filters), planets, star clusters and galaxies. The event is free but park fees apply. For additional info, contact tackley@utah.gov.
Mountain biking in local canyons is a fun way to get outside in the spring. April weather invites people to participate in outdoor activities, learn something new and celebrate warmer weather. (Canva Stock)
Model UN simulation provides real world experience for new high school club members.
By Jet Burnham j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
High school junior Cassidy Gates is interested in learning about world issues.
“I think it's kind of important to be aware of what's going on in the world, especially because we're teenagers, and so it's going to be the world that we inherit,” she said. “I think it's really important to learn about different issues that are going on and how we can make our world a better place.”
Gates’s interest helped start a Model United Nations club at Mountain Ridge High School last year. This year, the team, the only one in Jordan School District, competed at their first event, a Model UN assembly simulation held at Utah Valley University.
The seven team members represented the nations of South Africa and Slovenia, working in committees with other high school students representing other nations to address preservation of natural resources, sustainable agriculture and genocide and mass atrocities.
Students said they learned a lot about collaboration as delegates explored solutions that all countries could agree on.
“You can't pass a resolution with just one or two countries, you need, like, at least four for sponsors and a couple other signatories, so you can't do anything alone is ba-
New team on the political scene
sically the whole premise of it. You have to work together,” sophomore Sylvia Packer said.
Students did extensive research to be prepared to represent their country’s interests.
“You had to really know the topics in your committee and your country’s stance on them,” sophomore Kinley Doman said. “You're collaborating with other delegates to make and sign a resolution to keep helping solve the problem.”
Senior Madison Moller said it was eye opening to see the issues from different countries’ perspectives.
“I just really tried aligning what I was saying with the country's views instead of my own views, which is, I feel like, a really good way of creating a more broad perspective on things,” she said.
The discussions lasted for hours but Doman said it was worth the hard work.
“Whenever a resolution would pass, everyone would just start clapping,” she said. “And it's just this surreal moment of you work together for hours making this resolution work, so it's everyone just being excited that it got passed and voted for.”
The competition was student-led and followed the procedures of the real UN to give students a realistic experience. This required them to learn new skills.
“We learned a couple new skills to write the resolution paper,” Packer said. “We had to learn, like, an entirely new form of language of parliamentary terms. It was very complicated, but also very rewarding.”
Students and school administrators have become fans of the local rugby team and their values.
By Jet Burnham j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
Students got excited about rugby—and the Utah Warriors rugby team’s core values of community, family, tradition and respect. Players from Utah's major league rugby club run an assembly in which they demonstrate rugby skills and invite students to participate with them in drills and activities.
“We just randomly select students to come and learn how to pass a rugby ball,” Warriors Community and Events Manager Patrice Nautu said. “We do some small competitions and relay races. And then we also, we have Koa our mascot come out and he just adds just the most excitement for our young kids, especially our elementary kids.”
Athlos Academy Assistant Principal Stacy Tonozzi said it’s a fun assembly.
“The last few years we've invited them back, because they're just very energetic, very positive,” she said. “They really get the kids engaged—we love their assembly program.”
The Warriors hold assemblies to generate interest and enthusiasm for the sport of rugby, which is fairly new to Utah. However, Herriman residents are more familiar with the sport. The Utah Warriors’s home field is in Herriman, at
Model UN Club Adviser Kelsie Berrett hopes to grow the team next year and be able to participate in more competitions.
“It really is just meant to simulate and give students a spirit and experience as to how the United Nations actually runs,” Berrett said. “And they were able to hear an address from an affiliate at the United
Rugby assembly is a win
Zions Bank Stadium, and Herriman High School graduate Alex "Spiff" Sedrick was celebrated by the city last summer for her help winning a bronze medal for the U.S. women’s rugby team at the 2024 Summer Olympics.
“There's still this buzz and this excitement around rugby that we just want to share with the youth,” Nautu said. “And so that's our goal, just getting to more schools, introducing this awesome game of rugby and then sharing our values of community, family, tradition and respect.”
The team values, which they call the four Warriors stripes, are the basis of the assembly, but they also incorporate any other messaging a school administration requests. Athlos Academy has had them focus on anti-bullying previously. Coach Jason Morgan, the Athletic Performance lead at Athlos Academy, said the assembly pairs well with the charter school’s values of performance character and fitness.
“I think it's good for our kids to see just a glimpse of some high level athletes,” Morgan said. “And then they also teach our kids some qualities that the Warriors athletes have to have, trying to bring it down to the kids’ level, and modeling those things and showing them why it's important.”
The Warriors leave the schools they visit with warrior tokens to reward students for living the team’s values. They also provide tickets to students to attend a home game, with a portion of that night’s ticket sales donated back to the school. Nautu said it’s an affordable and family friendly event and that it’s fun to see students cheering with a section full of
Nations as well who shared some of his personal experiences. I think it opens up some doors to potential careers for those that are interested in international relations or politics, or just kind of gives them a vision for opportunities that they may have in the future.” l
their classmates and families. She said they get pretty excited, especially when students are called to the field during half-time to represent their school and to greet the players with a high-five line.
“Just seeing the joy with these students on the field with professional athletes, it makes everything worth it,” Nautu said. “The experiences and the impact that rugby can have on these young students, on the youth, is truly impactful.” l
Mountain Ridge High School’s Model UN team: Cassidy Gates, Madison Moller, Sylvia Packer, Kinley Doman, Camila Lillo Lillo, Elizabeth Kesler, Emma Strand. (Photo courtesy Kelsie Berrett)
Excited students from Athlos Academy pose with their free tickets to a Warrior’s Rugby match. (Photo courtesy Patrice Nautu)
Rebuilding, young Mountain Ridge boys tennis team eager to compete
The Mountain Ridge boys tennis team has a lot of new faces this season. The team is working hard to be ready for region action and face talented foes.
By Josh McFadden
The 2025 Mountain Ridge boys tennis team will look a lot different than the 2024 version.
A season ago, the Sentinels had several seniors, leaving head coach Parker Hansen with a lot of holes to fill. Enter this season, and Hansen finds himself with a lineup comprising seven freshmen. Though the youthful team could face some challenges when it comes up against more seasoned opponents, Hansen loves the potential these young players have. In fact, Hansen considers it a strongpoint that he has so
many young players to work with, and he’s thrilled to see what these ninth graders can do to contribute to the team.
“Our strength is our youth,” he said. “Our seven freshmen are loaded with talent. We’re in the rebuilding stages of this program, and helping these youth start young is huge.”
At the same time, Hansen acknowledges that his team’s lack of match experience could prove to be difficult. It’s one thing to do well in practice but a different matter when it’s time for a match against an opponent. Also, the Sentinels will go up against strong region foes such as Corner Canyon and Bingham, which finished sixth and seventh, respectively, in the 2024 Class 6A state tournament. Other Region 2 opponents are Herriman, Riverton and Copper Hills, all of which finished above Mountain Ridge in the standings a year ago.
But Hansen said his players have a lot potential and are excited to take on the daunting tasks that await them. The play-
Notification is given that Zions Bancorporation, N.A. dba Zions Bank, One South Main Street, Salt Lake City, Utah 84133, has filed an application with the Comptroller of the Currency on March 24, 2025, as specified in 12 CFR 5 for permission to establish a domestic branch at 5048 W. Herriman Boulevard, Herriman, Utah 84096, on May 19, 2025. Any person wishing to comment on this application may file comments in writing with the Director for District Licensing, Western District Office, 1050 17th Street, Suite 1500, Denver, Colorado 80265, or email LicensingPublicComments@occ.treas.gov within 30 days of the date of this publication. Information about the filing may be found in the OCC’s Weekly Bulletin available on the OCC website. The public portion of the filing is available upon request.
ers’ attitudes are positive, and enthusiasm is high among the team members, whether at practices or during matches.
“The players are really excited for the season and have a mindset of constant improvement,” he said. “Each day, they come early to warm up and get their reps in. The players have put in the work during the offseason and have improved dramatically from last season. They are eager to make their mark this season.”
Hansen’s objectives extend beyond wins and losses. He has established team values that his players work hard to embrace and abide by. He’s grateful that his pupils are buying into his philosophies and are enjoying being a part of the Mountain Ridge team.
“Our team’s values are one, brothers together; two, control what you can control; and three, hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard,” Hansen said. “The players have bought into our values and the culture. They have already shown improvements in all three values. Especial-
ly value No. 1. Every match, my players are befriending the other team and are always super kind and respectful. They love life and enjoy having fun playing tennis.”
In the early stages of the season, Hansen said the Sentinels have worked hard at improving their play at the net. Though there have been some struggles with this aspect of the game early on, Hansen is working hard to correct the issues and believes his team can not only turn around their fortunes with net play but can be better than anyone in the region in that area.
“My goal this year is to be the best team at the net in the region,” he said. “Currently, that is our weakness, but I believe we can turn that around by emphasizing that every practice.”
Hansen is pleased with the efforts and performance of Bridger Newsome, as well as with the doubles tandem of Gavin Britton and Jershon Lopez.
“Bridger is a seasoned veteran who’s playing first singles for the first time,” Hansen said. “He’s improved a lot from last year and is looking to surprise some people this year. He has the talent and IQ to win a lot of games in region and state. Gavin and Jershon are new to playing with each other but very aggressive net players. I believe by the end of the season they’ll get hot and upset some teams during state.”
Coaching a high school sport can have its difficulties. But Hansen said his players make his job so much easier and more enjoyable. He is impressed with their work ethic, demeanor and willingness to do what it takes to improve. He also said the players are fun to be around.
“Everyone is super cheerful and fun,” he said. “There isn’t a day that goes by that I’m not laughing my head off.” l
The Mountain Ridge boys tennis team. (Photo courtesy Parker Hansen)
Peri Kinder Life and Laughter
Russia
is our ally. Canadians are the enemy. Tariffs will make us richer but we’re cutting staff at national parks. Measles is back. Gaza is the new Riviera. The economy is crashing and it’s tax season when I pay thousands of dollars to the government so it can purchase Tesla Cybertrucks to send to Jupiter.
The newspeak and doublethink we endure each day can be a bit overwhelming, but I’ve found a way to get through the endless cycle of breaking news: denial.
Denial is a beautiful, hazy way to spend your day. Instead of crying through a CNBC report, denial allows you to drift on a cloud of puff pastry surrounded by cherry trifle and savory scones.
This specific form of denial is “The Great British Bake Off” and it saved me during March when I was knee-deep in tissues, cough syrup and tariff wars. There’s only so much idiocy one can endure while healing from pneumonia.
Unlike American reality shows that foster cruelty and conflict, GBBO features a dozen creative bakers who just want to make
Let them eat cake
the best Victoria sponge cake or sticky toffee pudding. The contestants are kind, positive and willing to offer a helping hand.
I love British television because everyone looks real. There are no plastic surgery junkies or steroid-addicted chefs, just regular people doing something they love. When the judges, Paul Hollywood and Dame Prue Leith, make a criticism, it’s done with a British accent so it doesn’t sound so awful.
When Prue tuts and says, “This bake is a disaster,” she could easily be tucking a blanket around your shoulders and handing you a steaming cup of Earl Grey.
Instead of watching Elon Musk wield a chainsaw, I tune into GBBO which is filmed on the grounds of an English manor. Bunnies and squirrels scamper through grassy meadows like a Disney movie. There’s even a fanbase dedicated to identifying the different bird songs heard during the show.
The pastel-colored set, with its matching counters, ovens and fridges, distracts me from personnel cuts at federal agencies including
the CDC and FAA. GBBO hosts Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding wander through the competition, amusing bakers with their British humor and offering pep talks to stressed cooks.
Each episode has a specific theme. There’s bread week or pastry week or biscuit week, and each chef creates a signature bake, completes a technical challenge and makes a jaw-dropping showstopper. It’s a heartwarming alternative to the 24/7 chaos of the Trump administration.
Who knew there were so many British bakery items? But I have to admit, there are things they make I would never eat, including black pudding and chorizo buns topped with mustard custard. Nope.
Instead of worrying about the breakdown of our country’s system of checks and balances, I worry about whether my favorite
baker can create a pie crust that doesn’t have a soggy bottom. The judges hate soggy bottoms. I’ve also learned to worry about fallen focaccia, overcooked tarts and croissant dough that’s not properly laminated. Even the mistakes feel cozy.
I’m impressed at how quickly chefs can whip up a batch of pistachio macarons, ginger tarts or spanakopita (a spinach and feta pie my husband would NEVER eat) with minimal tears or tantrums. It’s a reminder things can get done without fits of temper, vengeance or manipulation.
Denial is not a permanent solution but it’s a tool when messages from Big Brother and the Ministry of Truth get to be a bit much. Just turn on the TV and float away in a delicate orange buttercream or raspberry whipped cream. It’s some sweet positivity in a decidedly bitter time.
BACK PAIN STOPS HERE
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