TWO STUDENTS TAKE THE REINS OF PONY TALES EVENT
By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
Youth of all ages experienced the academic and therapeutic benefits of reading to a horse at Strides Pediatric Therapy’s Pony Tales event, planned by Mountain Ridge High School business students Eden Knecht and Izzy Hammer.
“Some felt silly at first, but as they started going, it was fun for them, and it was good, and they felt more confident,” Knecht said. “One mom said that her daughter protested less about having to sound out the words and take her time. She was just more open with it and actually gave it a chance instead of pushing back.”
Hammer and Knecht organized the event for a DECA business club project at the request of Marley Juarez, co-owner of Strides Pediatric Therapy. The project was the perfect intersection of their interests in horses and in helping others. With the skills they learned in marketing and business classes, they took over the clinic’s social media accounts and networked with Herriman City, community members and their high school student body.
They held two book drives, collecting a selection of over 200 books for kids to choose from when reading to a horse. Participants also had a choice of 10 horses. Once the book and horse were chosen, the youth sat outside the horse’s pen and read aloud to them. They went
home with the book and a bookmark picture of them and their equine reading pal.
Juarez, whose clinic offers various types of therapy including some involving horses, got the idea for Pony Tales from reading about the benefits of the Reading Education Assistance Dogs program through Intermountain Therapy Animals.
“They have done a ton of research on reading aloud to dogs and improving literacy and self-confidence and mental health, and the numbers and the research is just staggering,” Juarez said. “I read the research on the READ program and thought that we could kind of adapt it and use those benefits for kiddos with horses as well.”
She said the biggest benefits are self-confidence, self-esteem and problem solving skills.
The Pony Tales event, which also included yard games and food, raised $2,500.
“A big part of what we were doing was a fundraiser to put in a new building,” Juarez said. “We are at capacity with our current space, and we still have kids on a wait list, waiting for therapy services.”
Juarez believes being around horses improves mental health and was grateful for Hammer and Knecht’s help to inform the com-
Continued page 4
Ellison Juarez, daughter of Marley Juarez, co-owner of Strides Pediatric Therapy, shows picture books to the horse named Solomon as part of the Pony Tales event on Nov. 9. (Rebecca Olds/City Journals)
Ladies Take the Lead with Experience, Passion and Purpose at CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospitals
“Ido this work for my father, for families like ours, and ultimately, for the glory of God,” said Martha Boutsikakis Gamble, Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) at Holy Cross Hospital - West Valley and registered nurse for over 20 years.
For many, a career in healthcare is more of a calling - a decision made that was shaped by past experiences with loved ones, or even personal health scares of their own. This type of desire to care for others and passion to pursue a career in healthcare rings especially true for the ladies who are taking the lead at our CommonSpirit Health Holy Cross Hospitals in West Jordan and West Valley City.
Martha was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, to immigrant parents from Crete, Greece. While her parents spoke conversational English, her role as the eldest child often involved translating for them in settings where language wasn’t necessarily the barrier but rather, cultural understanding wasthis included translating at her dad’s appointments with his dietitian.
“When I was only about 11 or 12 years old, my father was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes,” said Martha. “It quickly became clear during his appointments that the meal recommendations we were receiving didn’t align with the food we grew up eating, nor did they consider the cultural context of our meals.”
In an attempt to adapt to the dietitian’s recommendations, the meals Martha and her family ate were repetitive… for nearly a decade.
“These early experiences fostered in me a calling—not only to serve but to advocate for
communities like mine, where language and culture can create unseen barriers to quality healthcare,” said Martha.
For Christine McSweeney, President of Holy Cross Hospitals - Jordan Valley and West Valley, her path to healthcare leadership began as a passion to explore the science behind nutrition and how to properly fuel our bodies.
“I’m a science nerd at heart,” said Christine. “I get excited about seeing people and myself thrive and improve through proper nutrition and care”
Christine’s career began at Banner Health in Arizona where she was a clinical dietitian. Over the course of 20 years, Christine climbed the ranks to eventually serve as Chief Operating Officer of a large academic center in downtown Phoenix before she joined the CommonSpirit Health leadership team five years ago, stepping into her current President role in 2023.
“My experience here in Utah has been like no other. It is full of neighbors helping neighbors, strong family values, amazing outdoor beauty and a true haven for healthy lifestyles. This way of living and thinking really brings me back to my roots as a dietitian” said Christine. “In addition, it certainly doesn’t hurt that the people we have working for CommonSpirit in the Greater Salt Lake market are loyal, dedicated and lean into our mission with their values first!”
Katie Flores, CNO at Holy Cross HospitalMountain Point and Interim CNO at Holy Cross Hospital - Jordan Valley, kicked off her healthcare
career in 2001 as a registered nurse - initially caring for patients at the bedside in Med/Surg and in the Emergency Department.
Over the years, Katie transitioned into leadership roles and has been serving as CNO for the last 10 years. A passionate caregiver, Katie’s background actually started with a dream to work in broadcast media… but that quickly changed.
“I realized early on that broadcast wasn’t the right fit for me - I felt a lack of connection and fulfillment so I pursued a career that would allow me to make a meaningful impact on others,” said Katie. “After going through some personal life experiences that led me to seek healthcare myself, I decided to make a change. I went back to school to pursue a career in healthcare—one that I could feel passionate about every day and truly connect with on a deeper level.”
Though different backgrounds and experiences fuel this leadership team’s passion to do what they do every day, Christine shared that the common thread between them all is, “This team of women lead with strength, confidence, curiosity, determination and heart…. it is present in everything we do and apparent in the quality of care our hospitals provide. I cannot wait to see all we continue to accomplish, together.”
At CommonSpirit Health, we make the healing presence of God known in our world by improving the health of the people we serve, especially those who are vulnerable, while we advance social justice for all.
Learn more about the services, care providers and missiondriven work of the Holy Cross hospitals and CommonSpirit Health at www.holycrossutah.org.
munity about equine therapy opportunities her clinic offers.
“I had had this idea for a while, but hadn’t quite had the time to put it together and do things like the book drive and all those small pieces that they did, so they were able to kind of take the idea and actually get it off the ground,” Juarez said.
Because of the success of the event and the community connections that were made, Juarez plans to hold 3 or 4 of these events each year.
“It was fabulous—it was honestly better than we were expecting,” Juarez said. “I was super excited to see that kids didn’t feel ‘too cool’ for reading out loud to horses. Even some of our older teenage kids that came participated and really seemed to enjoy it. And
the horses really enjoyed it, so, yeah, I was very happy with how it went.”
Knecht and Hammer were pleased with the community support for the book drive and the Pony Tales event. A local Salvadorian food truck donated food and Monarch Family Counseling (a competitor of Strides) donated raffle prizes for the city book drive.
Hammer said it was great to see the community come together.
“I think the biggest thing that surprised me is just people’s willingness, and with mental health being such a priority in our community and the world, it’s just starting to be a bigger thing that people are willing to combat it,” Hammer said.
Knecht and Hammer will present the work they did on this project at the DECA business club state competition in February.
Blackridge Elementary honors veterans
By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
At the annual Blackridge Elementary School Veterans Day assembly, students performed songs of patriotism and gratitude for their special guests—family members, friends and neighbors who have served in the United States military.
Principal David Butler told students that veterans are the heroes they should be looking up to and invited them to look them directly in the eye as they gave them a standing ovation.
Butler thanked the veterans for their service to their country and community, and for being examples to the students. “Just you coming helps them to learn about what respect is, what service to community and country is, what courage is,” he said, choking back tears. “Thank you. Thank you for your service and thank you for coming to our program. I hope that you felt their thanks and our thanks as a community.” l
TEAM
The Herriman Journal is a monthly publication distributed directly to residents via the USPS as well as locations throughout Herriman. For information about distribution please email hello@thecityjournals.com or call our offices. Rack locations are also available on our website. The views and opinions expressed in display advertisements do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions held by Loyal Perch Media or the City Journals. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the owner. © 2019 Loyal Perch Media, Inc.
Scott | bryan.s@thecityjournals.com
Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com
Mieka Sawatzki | mieka.s@thecityjournals.com
Lindsay Andreasen | lindsay.a@thecityjournals.com
Jason Corbridge | jason.c@thecityjournals.com
Ryan Casper | ryan.c@thecityjournals.com
Brielle Chalk reads to Royal the miniature pony, one of two certified service animal ponies at Strides Pediatric Therapy. (Rebecca Olds/City Journals)
(Jet Burnham/City Journals)
(Doug Flagler/JSD)
‘Cursed’ show magically transforms into something even better
Providence Hall High School theater department’s production of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” may very well have been cursed, said cast members.
“The Saturday after Fall Break, we put up our whole set on the stage, and then Sunday, the school flooded,” drama teacher and show director Jason Purdie said. “A portion of the school—especially the performing arts hall— was under three feet of water for 16 hours.”
It was a week and a half before opening night and the gym floor and stage would take months to repair, so Purdie turned to the Herriman community for help to find an alternative location for the show. Cassie Lombardi, a parent volunteer for the production, reached out to Kayla Martin, the drama teacher at Fort Herriman Middle School, whom she had worked with once before.
“As I was reading her text, I was immediately reminded of the heartbreaking time of canceling my own shows because of the March 2020 Covid shutdown,” Martin said. “I knew I needed to make this work and started looking at my calendar. Those kids have worked so hard for weeks and deserve to perform.”
Martin postponed her own schedule and arranged for the PHHS cast to use FHMS’s stage and storage spaces for their rehearsals and performances.
“The theatre community is a loving and supportive community,” Martin said. “We are constantly sharing resources, ideas, people, props, costumes and equipment. Helping each other—especially when things are going horribly wrong—is what we do.”
Opening night of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” was rescheduled from Nov. 7 to Nov. 21 and the 26 cast and crew members had two weeks to adjust to the new stage.
PHHS seniors who’ve been involved with previous school plays said misfortune is nothing new for PHHS theater productions.
“This isn’t the first time,” Anthony Lombardi, who played the role of Delphi in the
By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
show, said. “But compared to the previous shows that we’ve done, at least no one’s hurt.”
Lombardi’s appendix burst one week before opening night of a PHHS show a few years ago. Another year, an actor was unable to perform when they were hit with painful kidney stones one hour before show time. One year, multiple people passed out on stage, and last year, an actor dislocated his knee during a performance.
“Something happens every time,” Mia Beck, who played the role of McGonagall, said.
However, the experienced theater students were able to see the positive side of this year’s setback.
“I’d say the start was a curse, but we were able to turn it around and into something cool,”
Boston Taylor, who played the role of Harry Potter, said. “We get to perform on a big stage. We’ve been given more time to really perfect our trade and really make this set look awesome and make sure that the magical effects are up to the Harry Potter standard.”
Jocelyne (JJ) Betts, who played Hermione
in the show, said, “I feel super lucky because they gave us this opportunity to perform on a better stage and have more audience members.”
As a small charter school, PHHS’s performance space can only accommodate 90 audience members, so actors are normally limited in how many friends and family members they can invite to their shows. With the venue change, they had a 706 seat capacity each night.
The actors were glad to be able to invite more people to see the show. They were also excited to have more paying customers attend the show.
“With that many seats, we can get more funding, so this is also a great opportunity for us to gain profit—for once,” Beck said. l
Providence Hall High School is one of the first schools in Utah to perform “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.” (Jet Burnham/City Journals)
The stage at Providence Hall High School was damaged by a flood just a week and a half before their fall production was set to open.
(Jason Purdie/PHHS)
Providence Hall High School is one of the first schools to perform “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.” (Jet Burnham/City Journals)
It starts with a ball of yarn: How you can help Ukrainian
Last year, local resident and businesswoman Alexandrina Mic-Podar, who was born in Romania, partnered with local and international charity AMAR to collect hand-knit scarves and hats for refugee children flooding into Romania from Ukraine. This year, she and others are redoubling their efforts to help the situation in Europe.
“This is an opportunity to warm not only their heads but also their hearts,” Mic-Podar said.
The origins of AMAR
Mic-Podar is helping with the second Hats and Scarves for Ukrainian Children drive, working again through U.S. Friends of AMAR, the American arm of London-based charity AMAR International Charitable Foundation.
In 1991, British baroness Emma Nicholson founded AMAR, which loosely means “builder” in Arabic, to provide relief to Iraqis persecuted by Saddam Hussein. On the drive’s Facebook page, Mic-Podar describes AMAR as a “30-year-old organization dedicated to assisting people in refugee settings worldwide.”
In the ensuing decades, the organization has provided healthcare, education and emergency relief to millions of displaced and vulnerable people in the Middle East and beyond. AMAR, whose official patron is none other than King Charles III of England, has also maintained a presence in Mic-Podar’s native Romania, helping orphans and special needs children to integrate into society.
In the 90s, the baroness met Salt Lake Valley residents who eventually formed US Friends of AMAR, which also collaborates with LDS Charities. Mic-Podar, who still has family in Romania, has been a tremendous supporter of AMAR since she met Nicholson in 2021.
The hat and scarf drive begins
By Elisa Eames | e.eames@mycityjournals.com
Last year, AMAR personnel in Romania watched Ukrainians fleeing the Russian invasion pour over the border. They reached out to Nicholson and requested hats and scarves for the Ukrainian refugee children there. The goal was to provide warmth in addition to a personal connection with a handmade gift from someone half a world away. “I have never seen anyone more passionate about bringing warmth… and a human connection to the kids than Baroness Emma,” Mic-Podar said. Nicolson requests that a handwritten note from its creator accompany every item.
Last year, Nicholson asked U.S. Friends of AMAR board member D. Louise Brown for 300 items, and Brown became the director of the hat and scarf project. Rather than being daunted, Brown thought, “This is Utah! We can make more!” She then enlisted Mic-Podar’s help.
Ultimately, U.S. Friends of AMAR
shipped no fewer than 3,000 hand-made items for children thousands of miles away to enjoy. The need never ends
“The situation in Ukraine and Romania has stayed the same from last year to this year. These beautiful children need our help,” Mic-Podar said via Facebook. “[Emma] truly believes that a handmade gift speaks to the soul and sends the message that someone is thinking of them somewhere.”
Last month, 5,000 hats and scarves were delivered to Cache Valley-based Juniper Systems, Inc. for shipment to Europe. “That’s 5,000 smiles on the faces of our young Ukrainian friends when they receive your gifts in time for Christmas. So wonderful!” Brown said via Facebook.
AMAR aims to deliver the first batch of scarves and hats before St. Nicholas Day, which is on Dec. 6. In many European nations,
refugees
St. Nicholas Day is a significant holiday where children and those in need receive gifts. The day marks the beginning of the general holiday season.
Because the need is ongoing, Brown, Mic-Podar and U.S. Friends of AMAR hope to receive even more donations by the end of January. “Our work presses on,” Brown said. “It’s still winter, and there are still children in need.”
On the drive’s Facebook page, members share ideas, tutorials and photos, and other Facebook users have reached out from all over to join the effort, including a resident of England who didn’t realize the group was in the U.S.
You can still help if you don’t knit or crochet.
Mic-Podar and other volunteers also work with local religious women’s organizations, church congregations, high school groups, seniors and individuals. The project
U.S. Friends of AMAR board member D. Louise Brown and teammates celebrate their first 2024 milestone. (Photo courtesy U.S. Friends of AMAR)
Ukrainian children in a Romanian classroom express their gratitude for the hats and scarves. (Photo courtesy AMAR Foundation)
Ukrainian children in a Romanian classroom express their gratitude for the hats and scarves. (Photo courtesy AMAR Foundation)
Through Feb. 1, 2025, U.S. Friends of AMAR is collecting handmade hats for children ages 3 to 16. (Courtesy U.S. Friends of AMAR)
Through Feb. 1, 2025, U.S. Friends of
is
was also recently featured on ABC’s lifestyle show, Good Things Utah.
“The parameters are the same [as last year]: [items] for children 3 to 16 years old, handmade with double yarn for warmth,” Mic-Podar said. “Please include a short note of love and encouragement with your first name.”
However, the overwhelming number of donated hats has necessitated an appeal for scarves to go with them. “The response for hats has been so tremendous… We presently do not need hats, but do need scarves very much,” Brown said.
Those who don’t knit or crochet have donated yarn, supplies, transportation and money for shipping costs. For questions about the drive or to donate, contact D. Louise Brown at (801) 682-0691 or Alex Mic-Podar at alex@ backyardbookkeeper.com. Visit the Facebook group Hats & Scarves Project for Ukrainian Children by AMAR at https://www.facebook. com/groups/hatsandscarvesforukraine.
“Take a moment and rejoice,” Brown said. “We’ve collectively accomplished something very good.”
For more information about AMAR or U.S. Friends of AMAR, visit amarfoundation. org or usfriendsofamar.org. l
Ukrainian refugee children created a poster to say thank you to the many volunteers of AMAR and U.S. Friends of AMAR. (Photo courtesy AMAR Foundation)
Ukrainian refugees display signs they made to say thank you for their new hats and scarves. (Photo courtesy AMAR Foundation)
Bags of homemade hats and scarves are ready to be shipped. (Photo courtesy
Friends
AMAR
collecting handmade scarves for children ages 3 to 16. (Photo courtesy U.S. Friends of AMAR)
Two Ukrainian girls enjoy their new hats and scarves while displaying notes from residents of Centerville, Utah. (Photo courtesy AMAR Foundation)
Music from around the world, performed by the Utah Symphony Orchestra, captivated the attention of 4,800 fourth grade students at a series of concerts held at Mountain Ridge High School in early November.
“The education program has always been a big part of the symphony,” Utah Symphony Orchestra violinist Becky Johnson said. She said the Utah Symphony Orchestra tries to perform in every school district in the state at least once every few years in the hope that kids who are exposed to classical music will grow up into adults who attend the concerts. It is an annual event in Jordan School District.
Between songs, the Symphony’s assistant conductor Jessica Rivero Altarriba taught students to conduct the beat and introduced them to the instruments, some of which were unfamiliar to students.
“I like that big one that kind of sounded like a piano,” fourth-grader Beckett Turner said, describing the harp.
Students were invited to think about how the music made them feel. Many said the music was “calming” and “relaxing.”
“It’s not so much them learning about all of the pieces as it is learning to enjoy the music and getting exposed to a different kind of music than they hear on the radio,” Johnson said.
The theme of this year’s program was “cultural diversity” and featured music from Russia, Germany, Spain, China and Mexico.
“I liked feeling all the different cultures of music,” Oak Leaf Elementary student Eden Fennell said. Her classmate, Rachel McArthur, said her favorite was the Russian piece.
Fox Hollow Elementary teacher Andrea Cobbley said the annual field trip to the symphony is timed to coincide with the year students learn to play the recorder as part of the state curriculum.
“At the end of the year they do a music program where they play their recorders, so this is kind of a preview,” she said.
Many Jordan District schools have music specialists that introduce students to music concepts. Terra Linda Elementary students had been introduced to musical instruments by their music specialist and were challenged to identify familiar instruments and musical concepts during the symphonic performance. Their teachers also helped them make connections to academic concepts.
“We’ll tie it in with how we’re talking about theme in reading right now, so we
Students tune-in to new experiences
By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
feel the theme of the music,” Terra Linda Elementary fourth-grade teacher Rebecca Dall said. “If it’s that dark, deep bass, usually that’s a scarier idea, instilling fear in you. So we’ll talk about the theme of the music in some of the songs.”
Dall said many students get their first opportunity to join a school band or orchestra in the upper elementary grades so the annual symphony concert for fourth graders helps promote it and get them familiar with what an orchestra or band is.
Bluffdale Elementary’s music teacher had taught students about various musical instruments, but this was the first time some of them had seen them up close, Bluffdale Elementary fourth-grade teacher Larissa Collaco said.
“Some kids don’t have the chance of being in an orchestra symphony concert,” Collaco said.
In addition to learning to appreciate the arts, Collaco said the field trip was an opportunity for students to practice listening skills and performance etiquette in a real-world setting and also to have fun learning outside the classroom.
“They get so excited about coming out and being in a different place,” she said. l
The Utah Symphony Orchestra plays music from around the world for fourth graders from around the school district. (Jet Burnham/City Journals)
About 4,800 fourth grade students enjoy the music of the Utah Symphony Orchestra. (Doug Flagler/ JSD)
Granite Credit Union rolls out its mobile branch
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
AsGranite Credit Union’s membership increased, discussions were held to determine how to bring banking services to more customers. Building brick-and-mortar buildings is expensive and they needed a faster, cost-conscious alternative.
First, the credit union partnered with Rancho Markets, Walmart and Harmons Grocery, creating branches within those businesses. Then, credit union leaders came up with the idea to create a mobile branch that could go to customers without investing in property and buildings.
“We wanted to add brick-and-mortar branches, but we also looked at something that could be more cost-effective,” said Granite Credit Union CEO Mark Young. “The idea with the mobile branch was a couple of things. One is that if we’re remodeling a branch, we could have that on-site and use that as the branch. And then the other piece was kind of a bonus, as we were researching it, was that it would work as an after-recovery option, because of satellite communications and the technology that it had, we could serve our members from anywhere.”
GCU leaders spent the summer of 2022 researching the mobile branch option and finding a company that could build what they needed. In September of that year, they ordered the vehicle from MBF Industries, out of Florida.
With a price tag of around $500K, the Granite Credit Union Mobile Branch costs much less than a brick-and-mortar location which can be more than $1.5 million, plus the cost of land.
The mobile branch is built like an armored vehicle, due to security concerns, and is outfitted with nearly a dozen cameras, motion detectors and stabilizer jacks. Customers can walk into the van and talk to employees, open accounts, apply for loans, get a debit card and do anything they could do in a permanent location.
Care with a mother’s touch.
There’s also a walk-up window and an ATM.
Since getting the vehicle in July this year, its testing phase has been a rolling billboard advertising the credit union. It will be used at city events throughout Salt Lake and Utah County and will be placed in specific locations to give credit union members easier access to services.
For instance, the Granite Credit Union Mobile Branch was parked at Rancho Market in Provo to offer incentives to members as they introduced the concept. The credit union also has
plans to bring the mobile branch to high schools in Granite, Salt Lake and Murray School Districts on a rotating schedule, providing credit union resources to students and faculty.
“We’ve used it at a couple of events since we’ve had it, and I think people are really surprised when they see it,” Young said. “We’ve had really good responses and feedback. We haven’t had an official launch but we’re doing a lot of testing and serving those members and working out all the kinks.”
Granite Credit Union was originally formed in 1935 to create an organization for teachers within the Granite School District. Since then, it has expanded its membership and serves patrons in 10 counties throughout Utah. The mobile branch will be an extension of these services as the credit union evolves to reach more people.
“We’re hoping to get into low income areas and we’ll be driving the truck to events, like at Millcreek Common, and park it where they have food truck nights,” Young said. “Essentially we’re trying to go to people to meet their needs, serve them, and hopefully we’ll publish a schedule where it’s going to be on our social media and website.”
For more information, visit Granite.org. l
The Granite Credit Union Mobile Branch is a state-of-the-art banking system on wheels. It will be used to bring credit union services to its customers in a revolutionary way. (Photo courtesy of Granite Credit Union)
Herriman changes zoning to make way for new sports complex
By Elisa Eames | e.eames@mycityjournals.com
The Herriman City Council has voted to approve an ordinance amending Herriman City code concerning a sports and entertainment mixed-use overlay. Helpful when different uses are anticipated in an area covering multiple zones, an overlay zone adds additional regulations or provisions to those of the existing zone. A mixed-use overlay allows for a variety of commercial, office, entertainment, residential and personal service facilities.
“This change allows greater flexibility for smaller sports and entertainment developments in Herriman,” the city wrote on its website.
Created for the Real Salt Lake Training Academy, the original overlay zone was written in 2017. “The original purpose was to facilitate the development of a master-planned area for international sports training and associated commercial, education and mixed uses,” Herriman Community Director Blake Thomas said.
The existing overlay allowed only a single regional sports facility for viewing or training, accommodating no fewer than 5,000 people over at least 100 acres.
One of the purposes of the new overlay is to act on the city council’s desire to invite more sports-focused developments into Herriman, enable expanded and corresponding land uses and support the development of facilities and venues that will encourage tourists to visit.
“There [has been] interest in… areas of the city being used for sports entertainment, so we started looking at options,” Thomas said. The city seeks to attract people to spend time in Herriman, spend money at businesses here and enjoy the community.
The amendment identifies allowable land uses, provides height requirements for structures and outlines development standards, such as lighting, access, parking, building materials, walkability and architecture.
“The new development standards account for larger buildings, parking needs and specialized materials, ensuring that future projects meet the city’s goals,” the city wrote on its website.
In addition to expanding permitted land uses, another goal of the alteration was to make the requirements more practical by reducing the necessary acreage—the requirement has been changed from 100 acres to five.
With the exception of a motion to allow personal care services, such as hair salons, within sports facilities, the planning commission unanimously recommended the amendment be approved. There were no comments at a public hearing on Sept. 18.
“This provides another tool for the city to encourage commercial development and support economic development efforts,” Thomas said. “It helps us achieve the goals in our general plan.” The amendment was unanimously passed by the city council on Oct. 9.
Directly following this vote, the council voted unanimously again to also amend the city zoning map by applying the brand-new overlay zone to 16.98 acres between Miller Crossing Drive, Midas Creek, Herriman Main Street and Mountain View Corridor. Some of this land is owned by the city, while some is privately owned. One property owner, MLM Holdings, was represented at the city council meeting by company founder Michael Maze.
The city chose this location because other areas would require expensive brick and stone materials to be used without creating as much revenue as retail areas. The public hearing for applying the overlay also took place on Sept. 18. without comment. Likewise, before the Oct. 9 meeting, the planning commission unanimously recommended the zoning map be amended by applying the overlay.
“The [sports and entertainment mix-use]
overlay zone amendment and its placement on the north of the Miller Crossing area [will] help move the sports-related facility concept toward reality,” Herriman Communications Manager Jon LaFollette said.
Property owners expressed support in favor of rezoning the land to create a sports facility. The prior zoning for this area, which only allowed for the anticipated auto mall, still applies.
“A developer has been in discussion with the city about a sports-related concept in that area,” LaFollette said. “The city hasn’t received a formal application for a sports facility yet, and it hasn’t moved through the typical public process… But we’re anticipating an application at some point—probably in the next several months.”
South of the Anthem commercial development and north of Mountain View Plaza, the complex would be centrally located with access from Main Street, Miller Crossing Drive and Mountain View Corridor. It will also have trail access through Midas Creek Trail.
The concept map for the complex includes an indoor and outdoor baseball facility, a basketball facility, a hotel, restaurants and entertainment venues. “This will help energize businesses [in Herriman],” Thomas said.
“These changes align with Herriman’s long-term plan to foster mixed-use developments that respond to shifting community needs,” the city explained.
“If you build it, they will come,” Maze said. l
A map shows the location of the anticipated sports complex within the valley. (Photo courtesy Herriman City)
Herriman has applied a new overlay zone to 16.98 acres of land between Miller Crossing Drive, Midas Creek, Herriman Main Street and Mountain View Corridor. (Photo courtesy Herriman City)
The concept map for the anticipated sports complex proposes basketball and baseball facilities, a hotel and restaurants, but is not yet finalized and is subject to change. (Photo courtesy Herriman City)
Navigating Grief and the Holidays
By Kathie Supiano, PhD, LCSW
The holiday season is nearly upon us. This is the time of year when grieving people often feel dread and sorrow about the very events and traditions that formerly brought happiness.
As every grieving person handles loss in their own way, each one of us observes holidays in our own way in time of bereavement. There simply is no one right way to experience the holidays. Some nd meaning in following cherished traditions, and others bene t from avoiding traditions because their associations are now tinged with loss. Some people nd great comfort in being with other people, others prefer solitude to camaraderie. For all of us, how we gather is as important as gathering at all.
Plan ahead for the holidays: The rst step in planning is to listen to yourself….what will help you most at this time? You may have strong memories and powerful feelings. Accept this as normal, but prepare for it. Anticipate the pleasures and the stresses of events, and select those you want to participate in. If you expect to be lonely, arrange supportive companionship. If you can’t bear the thought of connecting with the entire extended family, let the family know of your needs. Be creative and accept support by using distance technology.
Accommodate your plans to your new limits: Most grieving people have signi cantly lowered physical stamina and emotional reserve. Perhaps you can’t get every decoration out this year. Accept these limits as temporary, and good enough for this year. Choose to put your energy into the things that matter most to you.
Accept that the holidays will be di erent this year: The holidays are often lled with unrealistic expectations that may overwhelm you. You may need to revisit your goals and nd a balance between continuity and change. Many people nd a special comfort in establishing a new holiday tradition that honors the memory of the person who died.
Recognize that other family members or friends may have struggles, too: Look for opportunities to discuss your feelings and wishes with others who may also be grieving for your family member. Try to respect their choices, if they are di erent from yours. You all may need to make compromises.
If the holidays have always been hard for you: Use this transition in your life to try something completely new…an untraditional-tradition. Perhaps you have never taken the occasion create a new experience on your own. As challenging as loss can be, it can bring momentum to grow and to try something new.
For all of us, whether the holidays are a time of personal signi cance or not, it can be a season in which we re ect on what we do cherish as we journey through grief.
Kathie Supiano, PhD, LCSW is an Associate Professor at the University of Utah College of Nursing and the Director of Caring Connections: A Hope and Comfort in Grief Program. Caring Connections is a not-for-pro t program that o ers clinician-facilitated grief support groups in Utah.
6 unique shopping experiences for the holiday season
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Holiday shopping often brings loads of stress as you try to find the perfect gift for that special person. In Salt Lake County, there are many shops, boutiques and specialty stores where you can find unique gifts at affordable prices. Here are just a few fun places to visit during the Christmas season.
Randee & Company, 2036 E. 6200 South, Holladay
This cute little shop is full of whimsical and unique treasures for holiday gift-giving. From adorable kitchen goods to exquisite jewelry, Randee & Company finds distinctive and imaginative options for friends and family of all ages. Walking through the store is always an adventure with new products, kind employees and a fun atmosphere. Visit the retailer in Holladay or shop online at RandeeAndCompany.com.
Marissa’s Books & Gifts, 3302 S. 900 East, Millcreek
Support an independent bookstore for the holiday. Cindy Dumas, owner of Marissa’s Books, opened her bookstore in 2013 in honor of her granddaughter, Marissa. Since then, the bookstore has moved and expand-
ed, offering new, used, vintage, best-selling and rare books. Not only can you find the perfect book for the reader in your life, but Marissa’s also supports local schools and educators with books for the classroom. Learn more or shop online at MarissasBooks.com.
The Nut Garden, 13863 S. 2700 West, Bluffdale
With nuts, candy, dried fruit, trail mix and gift baskets, The Nut Garden is a onestop shop for everyone on your holiday list. Best-selling items include cinnamon bears, bulk cashews, butter toffee almonds, French burnt peanuts and banana chips. The shop also carries favorite brands like Built
AsBar, Gary’s Gourmet Caramel Corn and OM Power bars. The shop is open Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. but customers can also shop online at TheNutGarden.com.
Sacred Energy Empowerment Center, 261 E. 4500 South, Murray
For the crystal lover on your list, Sacred Energy has an outstanding selection of pocket stones, towers, figurines, clusters and spheres in a variety of crystals and stones. The store also sells hand-wrapped crystal pendants, bracelets, earrings, anklets and rings for every occasion. But Sacred Energy is more than just crystals. The shop sells sound bowls, tongue drums, drums, candles, tarot cards and incense. Its apothecary features herbs, teas, tinctures and essential oils. Sacred Energy also has dozens of hapé blends and accessories. Learn more at SacredEnergySLC.com.
The Shops at Gardner Village, 1100 W. 7800 South, West Jordan
With its cozy atmosphere and pictur-
esque setting, the locally-owned shops and boutiques at Gardner Village are a fun holiday destination. Lilly & Vera is a shop filled with self-care essentials, unique jewelry items, home decor and artwork. Pine Needles features fabric, cross-stitch and other textile crafts for the seamstress in your life. The Train Shoppe is a mecca for model railroading hobbyists and Boho Chic has hand-selected clothing options including hats, skirts, dresses and tops. More than a dozen stores are on-site for holiday shopping. Visit GardnerVillage.com to learn more.
Fudge Co., 13292 S. Rosecrest Road, Herriman
Using a recipe that’s been passed down and perfected for 50 years, Patience Kunz, the owner of Fudge Co., makes hand-created fudge and candies that will elevate your holidays. Whether it’s toffee pecan, chocolate walnut, Biscoff cheesecake, lemon raspberry or Nutella swirl, the fudge options are creamy and delicious. The Fudge Co. also sells caramels, nut clusters and barks to fill those Christmas stockings. For more information or to order online, visit The-FudgeCo.com l
New treatments can help those struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder
we move into the darker months, it’s important to pay attention to mental health.
Seasonal Affective Disorder impacts many people in Utah and the holidays can be hard for those who already feel unhappy or isolated.
While there are many ways to combat the effects of SAD including going outside during daytime hours, making self-care a priority, eating well, planning events with family or friends and getting regular exercise, sometimes the combination of gloomy weather and long nights makes it hard to bounce back.
For those who struggle with SAD, NeuroHealth Manager Jason Corbridge said there is help available. NeuroHealth is a clinic that specializes in treating depression and mental health issues with transcranial magnetic stimulation. Corbridge said TMS is an easy procedure with minimal side effects
“Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD, is very common in states such as Utah that see a huge swing in seasonal temperament and the holiday seasons can be especially hard,” he said. “At NeuroHealth, we specialize in treating major depressive disorder and depressive anxiety and we actively do everything we can to push the discussion of mental health, recognizing potentially harsh times and mitigating the effects of seasonal depression.”
Symptoms of SAD include low energy,
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
social withdrawal, fatigue and oversleeping, an increase in feelings of depression and anxiety, low energy, weight gain, trouble concentrating and even suicidal ideation.
Low serotonin or melatonin levels can contribute to SAD, as well as genetics, less sunlight, grief, loneliness and biological clock shifts. But every person is different and re-
sponds to seasonal change differently.
NeuroHealth’s groundbreaking TMS treatment is a non-invasive process using magnetic pulses to improve nerve cells in the brain. Corbridge said TMS is an FDA-approved treatment that is easy and effective and usually covered by health insurance.
“If you are already suffering from depres-
sion and are anxiously looking at the incoming weather we are bound to get over the next three to four months, give us a call,” he said.
Because each person’s struggle is unique, the professionals at NeuroHealth make sure patients receive the individualized help they need to get through SAD. Along with TMS treatment, NeuroHealth also uses ketamine therapy in a controlled setting. Considered an emerging treatment for depression, ketamine is an option for people dealing with treatment-resistant depression.
Board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Thomas Rayner, MD, is an advocate for mental health and is one of the foremost TMS providers for the state. He is one of the NeuroHealth professionals and is committed to helping patients find their way back to wellness. NeuroHealth is located at 10437 S. Temple Drive in South Jordan. To learn more about TMS and treatment options, visit NeuroHealthUtah.com.
Corbridge said there is no reason to go through another winter season full of dread, anxiety, stress and depression.
“Come see us and let’s talk about potential treatment options that can get you to a better place before the gloomy weather rolls around,” he said. “If we can’t help you, we will get you to someone who can.” l
Make holiday shopping a fun adventure by visiting local shops and boutiques in Salt Lake County.
(Stock photo)
Studies show Utahns could be at higher risk for Seasonal Affective Disorder. NeuroHealth offers new treatments to help people regain their footing during winter months. (Stock photo)
9 indoor and outdoor ice skating rinks to visit
By Rebecca Olds | rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com
Theserinks offer a range of experiences, from cozy, family-friendly options to Olympic-level facilities in or close to Salt Lake County.
Gallivan Center Ice Rink (Downtown Salt Lake City)
An iconic outdoor rink in the heart of downtown Salt Lake, surrounded by city lights and seasonal decorations, it’s great for both day and evening skating.
Ice Ribbon at J. Lynn Crane Plaza (Herriman)
Opening for the season on Dec. 2, this outdoor ice ribbon in Herriman is a treat. Instead of a circular rink, the ribbon gives skaters a path to follow surrounded by beautiful mountain views and seasonal lights. Just remember the center warns if it’s snowing outside, “Yes, we are still open!”
The center offers three free skate days on Feb. 3, 10 and 17, 2025.
Millcreek Common (Millcreek)
A rink and ice ribbon combo, the newly built Millcreek Common boasts the state’s largest outdoor skating rink at 11,000 square feet of ice. It has loads of features to make the ice skating experience unique too.
Music, lights and surrounding restaurants make it a whole outing, with a DJ coming to join the fun on Fridays and Saturdays. Ice skating begins Nov. 30 and the roller blading area freezes over.
A $5 ice show is offered from Dec. 5 through 7.
Park City Ice Arena (Just outside Salt Lake County)
A quick drive from Salt Lake County, this rink is one of the few outdoor ice sheets on the list! They offer public skating sessions, hockey
and even curling classes.
Salt Lake City Sports Complex (Sugarhouse)
A well-maintained indoor rink with public skating sessions, hockey leagues and figure skating programs.
County Ice Center (Murray)
A large, indoor rink that offers public skating, lessons and even curling classes. It’s popular among locals for its spacious rink and convenient location.
Acord Ice Center (West Valley City)
Located in West Valley City, this popular skating hub offers a welcoming environment for public skating, hockey leagues and figure skating lessons. Known for its spacious rink and family-friendly vibe, it’s a go-to destination for skaters of all ages and skill levels in Salt Lake County.
Utah Olympic Oval (Kearns)
Known as "The Fastest Ice on Earth," this Olympic venue offers a unique indoor skating experience, with a large ice sheet for speed skating and a separate area for public ice skating. It also holds the most Olympic records than any other ice arena.
As a fun added feature, the Oval hosts Cosmic Curling by changing the lights out for black lights and neon curling targets. The only caveat is that the Learn to Curl class is a prerequisite.
Cottonwood Heights Ice Arena (Cottonwood Heights)
Indoor public ice skating is available nearly every day except Thursdays, with time slots available during different parts of the day. Usually Fridays and Saturdays have open skating time from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. l
The Ice Ribbon at J. Lynn Crane Plaza in Herriman during the daytime offers a scenic mountain view while ice skating. (Courtesy of Herriman City)
National Christmas Tree stops in Salt Lake County during its 4,000-mile tour
This year’s U.S. Capitol Christmas tree made a stop at Wheeler Farm (6351 S. 900 East) where visitors could celebrate the 74-foot Sitka spruce, harvested from Alaska’s Tongass National Forest. Its visit to Murray was one of 11 stops along the 4,000mile journey to the U.S. Capitol.
On Nov. 9, officials from Salt Lake County and the U.S. Forest Service threw a party for the tree’s arrival at Wheeler Farm with crafts, food trucks, educational booths and information about the tree’s journey. It was a chance for people to see the tree up close before it lights up the nation’s capitol.
“We are honored that the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree [stopped] at Wheeler Historic Farm on its journey to Washington, D.C.,” said Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson. “Our community loves the holidays, and we’re excited to join state, federal and community partners in celebration of this 60-year tradition that helps kick off the holiday season.”
Although the national tree has been through Utah before, visiting Ogden in 2016, it’s the first time the tree has stopped in Salt Lake County. More than 500 people showed up at Wheeler Farm to sign the tarp covering the tree, receive commemorative pins and stickers from the event and visit with the team transporting the tree to Washington, D.C.
U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement Office Trampus Barhaug was assigned to guard the tree at Alaska’s Tongass National
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Forest while it was still standing and has accompanied it throughout the tour.
“Being the national tree, it’s the most important tree in the nation right now,” Barhaug said. “I love meeting all the people. Everybody’s been wonderful, both adults and kids. We thought it would be more for the kids, but the adults have been amazing. I’ll bet we’ve met 20,000 people already.”
Barhaug said schoolchildren in Alaska made more than 14,000 ornaments to decorate the tree and 41 handmade skirts were sewn by indigenous peoples in the state. The tree was scheduled to be delivered to the U.S. Capitol on Nov. 22.
Liz Sollis, communications director for Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson said there was lots of excitement around the event which was organized in collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service, Utah Highway Patrol, Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office and other local partners. She was pleased with the turnout at Wheeler Farm and excited the county was able to be part of the national tour.
“We were really passionate about getting the word out because we know Salt Lake County is for everybody, so we wanted to make sure everybody knew about this,” Sollis said. “Wheeler Farm always offers events and opportunities for learning and that’s what tonight is all about. It’s just a great opportunity for people to have fun and see the tree that’s going to be at the U.S. Capitol.” l
Hundreds of people visited the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree as it stopped at Wheeler Farm. They could sign the tarp covering the tree in the 100-foot semi-truck trailer. (City Journals)
Visitors at Wheeler Farm talked with representatives from federal and local agencies, made crafts, got free souvenirs and learned about the national tree. (City Journals)
Driving from Alaska to Washington, D.C., the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree made a stop at Wheeler Farm in November. (City Journals)
•
•
•
•
•
Take the ElevateHERTM Challenge
Are you a business leader?
At no cost, the ElevateHERTM Challenge is easy to accept and will benefit your company.
Join businesses across Utah in our mission to elevate the stature of women’s leadership. Take the ElevateHERTM Challenge and stand with other businesses as we pledge to elevate women in senior leadership positions, in boardrooms, on management teams and on politcal ballots.
LEARN MORE: www.wliut.com/elevateher-challenge
WOutgoing Decisions and Future Challenges
By Salt Lake County Councilman Sheldon Stewart
ith elections behind us, attention now turns to the actions of outgoing governments in their final days. The so-called “lame duck” period often comes with a mix of activity—some of it meaningful, some of it questionable—as leaders prepare to hand over the reins. Ideally, this period is marked by a focus on a smooth transition of power, respecting the will of the electorate as represented by the incoming officials. Unfortunately, this standard is not always upheld, and some actions merit closer scrutiny.
This year, Salt Lake County voters elected a historic group of new council members, including the first naturalized citizen (R), two first Hispanic members (R, D), and the first Black female member (D). These individuals, having committed to public service and begun preparing for their new roles, are poised to bring fresh perspectives to the council. Yet, in an unexpected and controversial move, the outgoing council voted on the very day election results were certified to defund the office staff traditionally allocated to its members.
For years, each council member has been supported by a staff assistant/adviser—a role that enables them to perform their part-time duties effectively. The outgoing
council’s decision removes this resource for the incoming members while preserving existing resources for some returning members and funding significant staff assistance for the mayor’s office. This decision has raised concerns about prudence, accountability and the council’s ability to serve as an effective legislative body.
As a fiscal conservative, I have consistently supported responsible budgeting and efforts to provide tax relief for our residents. However, this action, framed as a cost-saving measure, does not reflect true fiscal discipline. While the council cut
a small fraction of the budget to eliminate these advisors, it simultaneously authorized nearly $2 million for mayoral deputies and advisers, some earning significantly more than the eliminated council staff. Such choices highlight a troubling imbalance in priorities and governmental powers.
In the past decade, the county budget has doubled—from $1 billion to $2 billion—despite a shrinking direct service population. This growth in spending, coupled with the weakening of the council’s legislative capacity, raises questions about governance and accountability. A strong, well-supported council is essential to provide a necessary check on executive power and to advocate for meaningful budget reforms.
I welcome the new council members and am confident in their ability to serve our community. However, the actions taken to limit their resources before they even take office set a concerning precedent. Salt Lake County residents deserve a government that prioritizes transparency, appropriate checks and balances, and real fiscal responsibility—not decisions that undermine the principles of good governing and effective representation.l
Your Mental Health Deserves Care, No Matter the Season
As the days grow shorter and the cold settles in, many of us start to feel the weight of seasonal depression. If your struggle with depression includes low energy, lack of ambition, or a sense of isolation, you’re not alone—and we can help.
TMS is like physical therapy for the brain. It uses magnetic pulses, similar in strength to MRI, to reignite dormant connections in the brain and give you control of your depression. With NeuroStar, you can live on your terms.
Now FDA-cleared for depression in adolescents 15 and older!
“I had taken 11 different medications without any relief… NeuroStar treatment has helped me bring my life back… with a happiness that I’ve never experienced before” ~TODD
Visit neurostar.com for full
Salt Lake County winter shelters strain as demand grows
By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com
As Utah prepares for another winter, emergency shelters for people experiencing homelessness are opening their doors to help individuals survive the harsh months ahead. However, the current shelter capacity falls short of the state’s goals, underscoring the persistent gaps in addressing homelessness.
Salt Lake County’s winter response plan includes approximately 732 overflow beds and 250 “code blue” beds. While these numbers are a step in the right direction, they remain below the 900 overflow beds and 100 code blue beds recommended by the Salt Lake Valley Coalition to End Homelessness, in collaboration with the Utah Office of Homeless Services. The shortfall highlights the ongoing challenge of meeting the needs of Utah’s homeless population during the winter.
Earlier this year, Salt Lake County’s initial winter plan, which identified only 450 shelter beds, was deemed noncompliant with state law. This prompted the state to intervene. The state’s involvement reflects the urgent need for better planning and resources, not just for winter overflow, but for year-round solutions to homelessness.
“Identifying the high number needed beds in the short time allotted was no doubt a difficult task and demonstrated that additional year-round beds are needed,” said the Salt Lake Valley Coalition to End Homelessness leadership team.
In response to these gaps, the Utah Homeless Service Board allocated funding to acquire Ville 1990, a property on North Temple in Salt Lake City. The building, slated to provide 210 beds for winter overflow, will eventually be converted into deeply affordable housing in April. This property represents a shift toward addressing homelessness through permanent solutions, reflecting a broader understanding that long-term stability, not just temporary shelter, is essential for solving the homelessness crisis.
The county’s current winter plan includes several key shelters:
• 170 beds at the West Valley overflow site operated by Switchpoint, with the potential to increase to 200 pending fire marshal approval.
• 65 beds at St. Vincent de Paul.
• 50 micro-shelter units that were recently relocated.
• 175 beds at three resource centers.
• 32 beds for youth and families, likely through motel vouchers.
• 210 beds at the Ville 1990 facility, contingent on finalizing the purchase.
While these beds are a crucial part of the winter response, the shortfall of over 150 overflow beds compared to the recommended target points to the limitations
of the current approach. More beds are expected to become available as shelters gradually expand their capacity. Yet, the reality is that emergency shelter is still a temporary fix and the need for long-term, sustainable housing solutions remains pressing.
In addition to overflow beds, Salt Lake County’s plan also includes 250 code blue beds. A code blue alert is triggered when temperatures drop below 18 degrees Fahrenheit, including wind chill, and aims to prevent cold-weather deaths. The 2023 legislation that established this protocol followed the deaths of at least eight unsheltered individuals in 2022, underscoring the urgency of keeping people safe during extreme weather.
The code blue beds will only be available when temperatures hit critical thresholds, with shelters required to increase capacity by 35% and warming centers activated as needed. These measures are vital for addressing immediate threats to life, but they also reveal a larger issue: the lack of permanent, stable housing options for those affected by homelessness. Code blue beds include:
• 10 family hotel rooms.
• 20 additional beds at the Geraldine E. King resource center.
• 20 additional beds at the Gail Miller resource center.
• 30 additional beds at the Pamela Atkinson resource center.
• 85 beds at First United Methodist Church and 85 more at another church, both operated by the 2nd and 2nd Coalition.
While these emergency measures are essential for keeping people alive during the coldest months, they do little to address the root causes of homelessness. The city's approach also involves ensuring compliance with state laws that link homelessness services to the enforcement of no-camping ordinances.
This intersection of shelter provision, enforcement, and funding underscores a broader challenge facing the state and local governments: How to not only provide immediate relief but also create long-term strategies to end homelessness. Salt Lake City’s ability to access funding from the State Homeless Shelter Cities Mitigation Fund hinges on proving that it is not only enforcing ordinances but also making genuine efforts to reduce homelessness in the long term.
“The state is currently looking to bring more year-round beds online, which will help address the seasonal as well,” the Coalition’s leadership team said. “We anticipate with more year-round beds online, the need for temporary beds will decrease.” l
The St. Vincent de Paul Dining Hall/Resource Center at 437 W. 200 South. (Photo from Google Maps)
Groundbreaking simulation explores life after jail in Salt Lake County
By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com
Salt Lake County has introduced a re-entry simulation program aimed at increasing awareness of the challenges faced by individuals reentering society after incarceration or experiencing homelessness. The program, inspired by Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson and her staff’s participation in a similar event, seeks to reflect the unique demographics and needs of the county. Through this initiative, participants experience the systemic hurdles that many individuals encounter while trying to reintegrate into their communities.
“Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson and staff had an impactful experience participating in a re-entry simulation in another location, prompting them to bring a similar program to their community,” explained Liz Sollis, communications director for Mayor Wilson. “We recognized the growing need to address challenges faced by unsheltered individuals and those reentering society after incarceration.”
pact of budgetary constraints.
Salt Lake County views the re-entry simulation as more than an educational tool; it is a driver of systemic change. Insights gathered from participants are shared with local organizations and policymakers, fostering conversations about improving collaboration and support systems.
“Salt Lake County uses the re-entry simulation to inform participants and create conversations within their respective organizations with the purpose of building more collaboration across existing systems,” Sollis explained.
The re-entry simulation program uses real-life data to construct its scenarios, ensuring authenticity in its representation of societal reintegration. Character profiles for participants are based on the experiences of individuals facing homelessness and barriers to re-entry, as collected by a former street outreach case manager.
“The re-entry simulation’s character profiles are crafted based on real-life experiences of individuals facing homelessness in Salt Lake County,” Sollis said.
“This dynamic structure allows participants to gain a true-to-life understanding of the barriers people face while reentering society, emphasizing the interconnectedness of policy decisions and real-world impact.”
Participants navigate challenges such as obtaining essential identification documents, finding housing and accessing transportation and employment opportunities. Feedback consistently highlights these experiences as “eye-opening,” with many participants acknowledging they had underestimated the extent of the barriers faced by individuals reentering society.
The simulation exposes several critical challenges, including the difficulty of obtaining identification documents such as state IDs, Social Security cards and birth certificates. These documents are necessary for accessing housing, employment and other basic services. Transportation issues and long wait times at resource centers also emerge as significant obstacles.
“Participants consistently identify several critical barriers in the re-entry simulation, with one of the most significant being the challenge of obtaining identification,” Sollis said. “These essential documents are often prerequisites for accessing housing, employment and other services, making their absence a major hurdle.”
The program’s design is adaptable, incorporating legislative updates, policy changes and participant feedback. For instance, when funding for affordable housing is reduced, the simulation reflects this by limiting available housing options, providing a realistic portrayal of the im -
Beyond the simulation, the county offers programs designed to support individuals during the re-entry process. The Jail Resource and Re-entry Program, launched in 2022, provides individuals exiting jail with referrals to mental health and substance use services, Medicaid enrollment and other community resources. Over the past three years, more than 17,000 individuals have benefited from these services.
Other ongoing initiatives include the Peer Specialist Network, which connects participants with mentors who have lived experience, and the Legal Defenders Association’s social worker program, which offers targeted support to justice-involved individuals.
Community involvement remains a key component of the program’s success. The county encourages residents, businesses and nonprofits to engage in re-entry efforts through volunteering, advocacy and support for local initiatives. Suggestions include volunteering at shelters, participating in the annual Point-in-Time count, and supporting affordable housing and job training programs.
“The Nov. 21 event is the last scheduled re-entry simulation in 2024,” Sollis said. “If people are interested in participating in future re-entry simulations and/ or other efforts, we encourage them to contact the Salt Lake County Office of Homelessness and Criminal Justice Reform.”
Sollis also emphasized the importance of community engagement in public policies to maximize social and economic potential for all residents of the county.
As the program’s current funding concludes in December 2024, Salt Lake County is exploring ways to sustain and expand the initiative.
“This does not mean that the work stops,” Sollis stated. “We will be looking for opportunities to evolve and continue this valuable service to the community.” l
Salt Lake County provides a simulation training for former inmates and homeless people re-entering society. (Photo courtesy of Salt Lake County)
Salvation Army Angel Tree helps thousands of children each year
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
The Salvation Army and KUTV 2News have partnered for the 32nd year to provide gifts for children and older adults through the Salvation Army Angel Tree program. Since its inception in Salt Lake in 1992, the Angel Tree has helped hundreds of thousands of Utah residents.
Salvation Army Lt. Kate Combs said the program has been successful thanks to numerous donors and generous people who provide gifts and cash donations so children in the state can have a joyful Christmas.
“We really tailor it to each individual child so the parents get the opportunity to ask for the specifics for that child,” Combs said. “We also try to provide an outfit and shoes and a coat, as well as the toy items.”
To help a child or older adult for the holiday, people can visit Smith’s Marketplace and Cyprus Credit Union locations throughout Salt Lake County and select a tag from the Angel Tree. The tag has a list of items donors can purchase which they then return to the Angel Tree location.
Angel tags represent children from 0-12 years of age and older adults living in residential care facilities. The Salvation Army hopes to help nearly 3,000 children
this year and around 1,300 older adults.
“People can pick whichever tag they prefer and it’s a cool thing that sometimes they’re drawn to a particular name
Maybe a grandparent chooses a child because they have the same interests as their grandchild. Sometimes they choose a senior that’s the same age as their parents.”
People can pick up an Angel Tree tag through Friday, Dec. 13, giving volunteers time to shop and put gifts together for each child. Donated gifts must be new and unwrapped. Monetary donations are also accepted. For more information, visit saltlakecity.salvationarmy.org.
Additionally, the KUTV Holiday Pops Concert scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. will contribute all ticket proceeds to the Salvation Army Angel Tree. The concert, hosted by Sterling Poulson, will be held at Cottonwood High School in Murray (5715 S. 1300 East) and feature the West Valley Symphony of Utah, the Alta High School Madrigals and the Choral Arts Society of Utah. Tickets are available at Eventbrite.com.
because it’s the name of a family member,” Combs said. “Or maybe they have an 8-year-old girl and they want to let her pick something for someone her age.
“Every time you see a tag, that’s a genuine child,” Combs said. “If you’re still seeing tags in December that means that child doesn’t have items gifted to them. We don’t want any child to go without this Christmas.” l
Thousands of items are donated to the Salvation Army each year to help children and older people have a happy holiday. (Photo courtesy of the Salvation Army)
Behind the scenes at Utah's medical examiner’s office
By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com
Whenpeople picture a medical examiner’s office, they often imagine scenes straight out of a CSI show—investigations, crime and death. Dr. Dierdre Amaro understands how her office might be perceived by those unfamiliar with death investigations.
Her workplace features the expected fluorescent lighting, long hallways that connect coolers with the capacity to hold up to 12 to 70 bodies, and a noticeably strong odor. But beyond the clinical atmosphere, there are also some quirky touches: a full-scale X-ray machine affectionately named Larry, adorned with large googly eyes; a model skeleton with its own employee ID; and a spreadsheet to divide the responsibility of watering the office’s many plants placed on high window sills.
As the leader of the Utah Office of the Medical Examiner (OME), a position she’s held since this summer, Amaro oversees the investigation of all sudden, unexpected, violent, suspicious or unattended deaths in the state. The office conducts postmortem exams and autopsies to determine the causes and injuries behind these deaths. Recently, the OME opened its doors to news organizations to help the public understand the important role it plays in Utah.
“In some places, working as a medical examiner means you deal with death investiga-
tions, and everything else is secondary,” Amaro said. “In Utah, however, the work we do is for the benefit of the living. We still face death every single day, which some people think desensitizes us to it. In reality, the exact opposite is true; because death is a part of our jobs, we find meaning and purpose in the unique opportunities we get to serve, protect and support the living.”
More than 90% of the office’s work involves collecting data that’s then reported to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This data helps improve the health and safety of living Utahns.
“Death certificate data becomes a reflection of the health of a community,” Amaro said. “We are literally seeing the terminal results of public health problems here. Drugs? That’s a problem that’s killing people. We see that here. And if we can understand what is killing people in our community and why, then maybe we can figure out how to prevent that. And that is what we are about, not just little goblins under the bridge.”
While TV shows like CSI may glamorize the field, Amaro points out they often miss the mark. Most people assume the office’s work is focused mainly on homicides, but in reality, the majority of cases handled by the OME involve natural deaths and accidents.
HELP BUSINESSES MAKE CONNECTIONS FOR SUCCESS
We are the bridge between businesses and the community in Bluffdale, Herriman, and Riverton.
We are thrilled to celebrate the heroes in our community! Each year, the Mountain West Chamber honors exceptional individuals in police, fire, medical, military, community, and business sectors. This year, we are proud to recognize the following heroes who are truly making a difference. Their dedication and impact inspire us all!
Bluffdale Police: Officer Patrick Cullen, Officer Garrett Carter, Officer Talio Roberts
Bluffdale Fire: Captain/PM Darren Allen, Lieutenant/PM Scott Byrne, Paramedic Brad Shafer, EMT Kasley Watkins, AEMT Sam Littleton, AEMT Victor Sanchez
Herriman Police Department: Office Kyle Fowler
Herriman Emergency ER: Renee Aston, RN Holy Cross Jordan Valley: Kristen Jensen, RN
Riverton Hospital: Leanna Immenschuh, RN
Businesswoman of the Year: April Wise
Businessman of the Year: TJ Olson
Chamber Champion of the Year: Gabriel Garcia
Business of the Year: Good4Life Markets
Utah National Guard: Sgt Sebastian Rodriguez Volunteer of the Year: Shandra Madsen
UFA-Herriman: Captain Nathan Crump, Brandon Morgan, Spence Perry, Geoffrey Whatcott, Francesca Golly
Natural deaths might include older individuals who haven’t seen a physician in a long time and suddenly pass away, or young athletes who unexpectedly collapse on the field due to undiagnosed heart conditions. Accidents, such as car crashes and drug overdoses, are also frequent.
So how do investigations work? Utah’s system is distinct in comparison to states with elected coroners, who may not be required to have medical or forensic pathology training. In contrast, Utah’s centralized OME is staffed by highly-trained, licensed physicians.
According to the CDC, the leading causes of death in Utah are heart disease, cancer, accidents, Alzheimer’s disease, COVID-19, stroke, chronic lower respiratory diseases, diabetes, suicide and nutritional deficiencies. Amaro said the office’s cases generally follow a similar pattern to national statistics, with natural causes of death being the most common, followed by accidents, suicides and then homicides.
Life at the Office
A job at the OME is heavy, both physically and emotionally. Staff are alerted about 15 to 20 times a day via a doorbell that signals the arrival of a new decedent. Despite the regularity, the staff never takes their responsibilities lightly.
“Going to someone’s house on the worst day of their lives, being able to really handle their emotions with care and really have empathy for those people on that worst moment, is really important to me,” said Chief Medical Examiner Investigator Cory Russo. “And then to be able to come back and do the follow-up work, whether that’s positive identification after someone has been missing for years, that is so rewarding, to be able to bring closure to families.”
In addition to 12 forensic pathologists, some with specialties in pediatrics and neuropathology, the OME team includes forensic epidemiologists who focus on suicide, drug overdose and prevention efforts.
Suicide is a particularly prevalent cause of death the office encounters. In 2022, Utah ranked seventh in the country for suicide mortality rates. The team of epidemiologists helps make sense of this data.
“We can tell you this person died by suicide with a gun, but (epidemiologists) can tell you what were the circumstances around that death,” Amaro said. “So if we figure out the why, why are so many people in Utah killing themselves, then maybe we can fix that, and that’s what motivates me, and that’s what motivates most of us in this office.”
The facility also houses a space dedicated to DonorConnect, a nonprofit that connects tissue donors with recipients—such as those needing veins, long bones, skin, or corneas— through family authorization. According to Morgue Operations Manager Brandon Callor, this system ensures that viable tissue is recovered efficiently, without the need for lengthy travel that could diminish donation potential.
“There's a window of time in which they can still recover those tissues,” Callor explained. “Whereas in other states, those tissues may have to travel hours, losing a lot of potential donors.”
Though the work can be emotionally taxing, Callor finds purpose in his role. In addition to his duties as a morgue manager, he’s also a social worker. He interviews families who’ve lost loved ones to suicide or drug overdose, looking for ways to help beyond the autopsy suite, including advocating for policies that address public health risks and supporting grieving families.
“I think I can’t feel sorry for myself for very long when I realize there’s so much suffering out there,” Callor said. “And so, being able to be involved in the aid of someone else’s suffering just helps me to gain that perspective and think outwardly.” l
Brandon Callor, morgue operations manager, shows autopsy suite’s equipment at the Utah Office of the Medical Examiner. (Bailey Chism/City Journals)
Comcast’s initiatives have a broad impact across Utah
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Comcast has contributed more than $5.2 million in cash and in-kind contributions to nearly 100 nonprofit partners in Utah, over the last three years. Organizations like Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, the Alpine School District Foundation, Neighborhood House and United Way have all benefited from Comcast’s giving initiatives.
Project Up is a $1 billion program dedicated to closing the digital divide while connecting more people to the internet and creating opportunities for the next generation. Project UP supports nonprofit organizations that offer digital skills training, helping learners of all ages and skill levels to succeed in an increasingly digital world.
“With the support of Comcast, youth in our programs were able to get hands-on experience with advanced computers, guided exposure to the internet and new technologies, and about 3D modeling and other lessons that introduce youth to technology uses in many careers,” said Haylee Mathews, Boys & Girls Clubs of Salt Lake STEM Director. “The surprise of the 280 laptop computers to club members has been great for our youth to use as they learn about a variety of technology-related fields. Comcast has helped foster a culture and desire among our youth to learn more and pursue technology-related fields.”
Along with empowering communities, Comcast is helping to build a more equitable workforce by providing tech training and mentorship to underserved communities. Through partnerships with organizations like Per Scholas and CodePath, more people are mastering digital literacy.
Comcast also created more than 1,250 Lift Zones across the country, offering free WiFi access in community centers and recreation facilities. With nearly 40 Lift Zones in Utah, underserved families and neighborhoods can participate in accessing digital opportunities. Additionally, Comcast’s Internet Essentials program provides in-home broadband access for qualifying households.
Lily is an immigrant from Taiwan, assisted by the United Way of Utah County, one of Comcast’s partners. Adjusting to life in America has been challenging particularly when it comes to understanding technology. As an older woman, she said the learning curve was steep and she often felt overwhelmed in class.
“Then, during one of our sessions, I entered an old address from my childhood in Taiwan,” Lily said. “As the screen displayed the familiar streets and landmarks of my youth, tears welled up in my eyes. It had been so
long since I had seen the place where I spent my carefree days playing. It was a deeply moving experience, allowing technology to transport me back in time and mend a piece of my heart.”
Comcast’s corporate giving plays a crucial role in helping local nonprofits fulfill their missions. It also invests in future entrepreneurs through Comcast RISE, supporting the growth of 13,500 small businesses by providing monetary, marketing and technology grants to help entrepreneurs on their road to success.
By collaborating with community partners, Comcast has fostered digital literacy and work readiness skills, giving people across Utah access to the tools they need to navigate a digital world.
“Neighborhood House families live in areas that are digital deserts and many of our families do not have access to computers for their children,” said Neighborhood House Executive Director Jennifer Nuttall. “In this age of technology, that puts our school-age kids at a disadvantage, but Comcast has stepped in to provide laptops and connectivity, ensuring that all kids have the technology they need to succeed in school and beyond. This has been enormously impactful.”
Comcast is committed to addressing the digital di -
vide with forward-thinking programs and technology. It aims to continue building Utah’s tech landscape through valuable partnerships, initiatives and digital support.
“Our commitment at Comcast to bridging the digital divide is evident through forward-thinking programs and innovative technology that empower communities across Utah,” said Deneiva Knight, External Affairs Director, Comcast Mountain West Region. “By partnering with nearly 100 nonprofit organizations and contributing over $5.2 million in cash and in-kind support over the past three years, we are dedicated to nurturing Utah’s tech ecosystem.
“Through initiatives like Project UP, a $1 billion program designed to connect more people to the internet and equip them with essential digital skills, we are laying the groundwork for a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive in the digital age.”
For more information, visit Corporate.comcast.com. l
Comcast supports nonprofits in the state including Neighborhood House, United Way and the Boys & Girls Clubs. Photo courtesy of Comcast
Angels from the realms of glory (better have their papers)
Near the twinkling Christmas trees, pine-scented candles and brightly-wrapped packages, most homes in Utah display a Nativity scene. It might be made with Star Wars characters or garden gnomes, but it usually includes wise men, shepherds, Mary and Joseph, and an angel hovering near Baby Jesus. If you have children, the crèche could also include stuffed dinosaurs and a Barbie.
It’s a peaceful tribute to the beginning of Jesus’s mission, right before the dastardly King Herod (threatened by the prophesied birth of a new king) proclaimed that every male child under 2 must be put to death. (I’ll bet he was a blast at holiday parties.)
Being warned by an angel, Mary and Joseph fled with toddler Jesus to Egypt where they lived for several years.
But what if the story had been different? What if the Holy Family arrived on Egypt’s border, where someone had built a big wall? What if the Egyptian border czar said, “Nah. We don’t like refugees. They ruin our economy. Go back where you came from.”?
The New Testament would be a lot shorter.
Utah has more than 300,000 refugees and immigrants living in the state; almost 9% of the population. Maybe we could
Peri Kinder
Life and Laughter
consider this percentage of immigrants a tithe offering where we dedicate ourselves to treating them with love and respect, and not actively try to evict them from the inn.
Refugees are survivors of wars, often fleeing for their lives, leaving everything behind, exactly like Jesus’s family. Immigrants want safety for their families and dream of American opportunities. Didn’t we learn in church we’re all children of God? Maybe I misunderstood.
Utah is a shining example of how to assist these populations. There are programs to help refugees get jobs, learn English, finish school and raise their families. Many immigrants own businesses, pay taxes and contribute to our healthy economy.
But a large faction of the United States agrees mass deportation is a great idea. We can have a country without immigrants or we can have a strong economy. We can’t have both.
Unfortunately, brotherly love doesn’t fit today’s immigration narrative which is that refugees are ruining the country. Words like “diversity” and “inclusion” have become MAGA kryptonite. Have we forgotten Jesus taught that loving each other was one of the greatest commandments? Was there a disclaimer I missed that excluded people who weren’t born in America?
If Jesus was here, he’d be flipping tables and fashioning cords into a whip. He would call us hypocrites for not showing compassion to those who are suffering. Instead, we offer harsh judgment, condemnation and close our communities to shelters. Who are we?
There’s a story of a family who was very hungry. The grandmother took a big cooking pot into the front yard, placed it over a fire, filled it with water and plunked a stone into the pot.
Neighbors asked what she was making. “Stone soup,” she replied. Soon, everyone wanted to add something to the soup. One person brought carrots, another brought chicken. Someone added pasta. Yet another brought spices and salt. In no time at all, they had a big pot of soup to share.
In many ways, society is breaking. Rules and common sense seem arbitrary.
People want to pick ingredients out of this huge melting pot of America, this pot of soup, as it were, and toss them away. Immigrants add flavor to our communities. They add variety and culture and spice. If you take out all the ingredients, you’re left with a pot of hot water and a heart of stone. l
