See Inside... Andrey Sledkov
DanceBack Against Parkinson’s disease
By Collette Hayes | c.hayes@mycityjournals.com
month.
What common thread connects the lives of Brett Favre, Michael Clapier, Neil Diamond, Dan Gwin, Michael J. Fox and Linda Ronstadt? They are courageous artists and athletes who have confronted the challenges of Parkinson's disease (PD) with determination and resilience. Refusing to yield to the debilitating effects of the condition, they continue to inspire others to live life to the fullest, regardless of the obstacles.
A theater major in college, local resident Michael Clapier has enjoyed a diverse career as a dancer, stand-up comedian, and, for over 30 years, a wrestling coach. Even after receiving a PD diagnosis five years ago, a quick smile and a firm handshake remain trademarks of his outlook on life.
“My wife Linda and I have always walked together, and gradually we noticed a change,” Clapier said. “I slumped, shuffled, and could not stand straight. Soon friends were asking what was wrong. Not long after, I sat down with my doctor and asked, ‘Why am I so tired? I feel like I can’t move.’ She looked at me and said, ‘You might have Parkinson’s.' A conversation with a neurologist later confirmed it: ‘Yeah, you’ve got it.’"
After receiving medical advice from his doctor, Clapier began doing some research on his own about PD. He came across a conversation with Joanna Hamilton, Ph.D., ABPP-CN, of Advanced Neurobiological Health of Southern California, who indicated that movement might be a beneficial way of slowing the progression of the disease.
Clapier started thinking about his athletic and dance background and what could
be done to fight back against his physical and mental deteriorating condition caused in part by a dopamine deficiency. Dopamine is a neurochemical transmitter that controls movement and emotion. In Parkinson's disease, the brain cells that produce dopamine are damaged. As the disease progresses, more cells die, and the brain produces less dopamine, leading to greater movement difficulties.
“Parkinson’s disease studies have found movement as beneficial as any of our pharmacological agents,” Clapier said. “From this information, I then asked myself
this question: if there is no cure for PD and movement may slow its progression of the disease, how could I create an enjoyable way to gain movement? My life experience has trained me to find a better way to create a difference when faced with a challenge. As a dancer, athlete and entertainer, I understand how to condition, stretch and strengthen the muscles that move us. Reflecting on this, I recognized the great power of movement, and realized I could help both myself and others who are experiencing this condition."
Clapier decided to DanceBack Against
Parkinson’s Disease instead of fight back. His mission statement includes helping as many people as possible improve muscle movement in a supportive environment. He envisioned meeting people at their level, focusing on large muscle movement, accelerating the heart rate, stretching, cross-hemisphere brain function movement and improving balance.
Recognizing the importance of physical activity, The Parkinson’s Foundation suggests a minimum of 2.5 hours of move-
April is Parkinson’s awareness
Recognizing the importance of physical activity, The Parkinson’s Foundation suggests a minimum of 2.5 hours of movement a week. To support this goal, The Dance Box Studio graciously opened its space for Michael Clapier, where he now teaches dance twice weekly. (Photo courtesy Linda Clapier)
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.
Longtime Holladay resident Jim Palmer remembered for his service
Jim Palmer, who served the Holladay community both in and out of government positions, passed away on Jan. 25 after a long illness.
By Tom Haraldsen t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com
Former Holladay City Councilmember and longtime resident Jim Palmer passed away on Jan. 25 after a long illness. Funeral services were held on Feb. 2 at St. James Episcopal Church in Midvale.
He served on the city council for several terms, working with both former Mayor Dennis Webb and current Mayor Rob Dahle, who has great memories of working with Palmer.
“First and foremost, probably his passion for the history of the city,” Dahle said. “His roots go back to his association through the Moyle family, who were some of the original founders of the city of Holladay. The Moyle farm is where the Cottonwood Club is now, so Jim had a real personal attachment to the city.”
Dahle said Palmer was incredibly bright and had a real knowledge of how municipal government functions.
“He brought that to the planning commission for, I think, six years, as well as eight years on the city council. He used that passion and knowledge and his administrative skills to shepherd the city through the early years of incorporation,” Dahle said. “A lot of what you see today has his handprints on it, like the Holladay Village Center, Knudsen Park and helping the community save The Cotton Bottom.”
Former Salt Lake County Mayor Ben McAdams met Palmer when he first ran for office in 2000.
“Jim was always someone focused on the community and giving back, always happy to help out,” McAdams said. “And you always saw him at community events or gatherings or civic events. And he was one of the first people to help out and have an opinion and was willing to lend a hand to support the community. I remember as a candidate for mayor him grilling me and wanting to know what my plans were for serving his community.”
Through that process, McAdams said they developed a relationship where he came to respect Palmer as someone who put community first and was giving public
Jim was not afraid to do the hard work and to really get into the weeds and the details of something.
Former Salt Lake County Mayor Ben McAdams
service even before being elected to office. Then even in an official position, Palmer was still an advocate and passionate supporter for his community and giving back.
“He came to me on many occasions, asking and advocating and asking for things that would benefit the community that he served,” McAdams said. “Jim was not afraid to do the hard work and to really get into the weeds and the details of something. When we were doing some work as it related to planning and conservation in the Cottonwood Canyons, Jim was very involved in work that was complicated, nerdy, nothing flashy–just like digging through how we were going to structure this and how we could create an approach that would ensure that good decisions were made about our canyons. Jim was very passionate about that, and just doing the hard work that created institutions and engagement from members of the public in a way that would ensure good decision making.”
Palmer’s oldest daughter Ashton said, “He was certainly always very green-focused. I just remember, he was always environmentally friendly, certainly, and wanted to be like a Boy Scout that left no trace. He loved being outdoors, and I recall when there was a plan to build a bunch of mega buildings in Holladay, he fought against it. He wanted to leave green space and big trees.”
One such project left a sole tree in an area of the city which Palmer fought to have preserved. Appropriately enough, he named the tree “Hope.”
“It's like, he was a very quiet guy, but always looking out for what was best for the city. He was really proud of that kind of stuff,” she said.
Palmer was a proud graduate of the University of Utah and an avid Utes fan, a member of the Crimson
Club. As Ashton said, he was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying skiing, hiking, backpacking, fly fishing and camping. He was active in Scouting, having earned his Eagle as a youth and serving as assistant scoutmaster in Troop 411 for eight years. He also supported the work of the St. James Food Bank, and was treasurer of the Episcopal Diocese of Utah in the final months of his life. Palmer is survived by his three children, Ashton, Madi and Preston, and their mother Terry, who remains involved in the local community. l
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ment a week. To support this goal, The Dance Box Studio graciously opened its space for Clapier, where he now teaches dance twice weekly. Additionally, Clapier extends his DanceBack reach by visiting assisted living centers during the week to help residents achieve their movement goals. Through his consistent dedication, Clapier is making a difference in the lives of those affected by Parkinson's disease.
Former Utah Symphony cellist and bass player Dan Gwin has been living with Parkinson’s disease for 17 years. Gwin says lifting his cello bow to the strings has now become challenging. During a recent DanceBack class, the heavy beat of Keith Urban’s "Texas Time" flowed through the speakers; Clapier extended his hand to Gwin, helping him out of his wheelchair to provide support; Linda Clapier was soon by Gwin’s other side, helping to provide balance. Immediately, Gwin smiled and began to pick up the dance steps with little effort and in perfect rhythm to the country tune, “Come on let’s get back on Texas Time!”
“We strongly believe that our DanceBack program can help people with PD,” Linda Clapier said. “We can choose to cry or we can choose to laugh. Michael and I chose not to cry. While our dance program can not cure the disease, those who visit our studio and participate in our classes begin to experience the benefits of movement for symptoms and conditions such as depression, anxiety, physical limitations and feelings of isolation that many face as a result of the condition.”
Parkinson’s disease is rising in the U.S. Neurological disorders are now the leading source of disability worldwide, and PD is the fastest-growing neurological disorder. According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, nearly one million people in the U.S. are living with the condition. This number is expected to rise to 1.2 million by 2030.
Who has Parkinson’s disease? Each year, approximately 90,000 Americans are diagnosed with PD. The incidence of the condition increases with age; however, an estimated 4% of people are diagnosed before the age of 50.
How does Utah compare with the U.S.? In Utah, there are more than 6,500 individuals living with PD. In 2022, Utah had the highest rate of Parkinson's disease-related deaths per 100,000 people in the United States, as reported by the Parkinson’s Foundation.
In a recent conversation with Dr. Jumana Alshaikh, a neurologist and movement disorders specialist at the University of Utah Health Center, the high prevalence of PD in Utah is an interesting observation that is not fully understood yet. It is thought that the high prevalence of PD in
Utah could be caused by an interplay of genetic predisposition in combination with certain environmental factors and healthcare awareness and diagnosis.
Research suggests age, gender, genetics and environment play a role in developing the disease
Most people diagnosed with PD are around 60 years old, and men are 50% more likely to develop the condition than women. Former NFL player Brett Favre was diagnosed with PD in 2024 at age 54, attributing his condition to possibly suffering over 1,000 concussions during his 20-season career. Although medical opinions widely vary, a 2020 study published in Family Medicine and Community Health supports his theory, stating that a single concussion increases the risk of developing Parkinson's by 57%. Favre now advocates for football player safety.
Actor Michael J. Fox a well-known advocate for people with Parkinson's disease was diagnosed with the condition at age 29. He feels partying may have contributed to his Parkinson's disease diagnosis in 1991. Fox has made the statement; “Genetics loads the gun and environment pulls the trigger.”
Dale Heaps, a participant in DanceBack Against Parkinson’s Disease, believes that his career as a historical documentation specialist may have contributed to his PD from years of exposure to the chemicals on the adhesive tape that he was frequently exposed to during document restoration.
“We do think that environmental factors could play a role in the risk for developing PD,” Alshaikh said. “For many of those environmental factors that could be associated with a higher risk of PD we don’t have high quality evidence yet to directly blame that environmental factor as the cause, since association does not necessarily mean causation. Also, many people are exposed to these same environmental factors and never get PD.”
Exercise has been found to be one of the most effective treatments for PD
“Although exercise is great for many reasons,” Alshaikh said, “exercise does not cure PD or reverse the brain damage that has already happened. Still, exercise is important for PD patients for the following reasons.
1. It can slow down the rate at which the disease is progressing in the brain.
2. It can train PD patients to make their movements faster and bigger.
3. It can improve the response to PD medications making them work better and feel more effective.
4. It can improve cognition and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
5. Exercise enhances mood and can help improve anxiety and depression.
6. Improved sleep quality, improved healthy gut movement.
7. Increased mobility and reduced pain related to muscle stiffness, helps keep bones strong.
8. Exercise reduces the risk of other health conditions such as diabetes, stroke, heart disease that could further negatively impact quality of life for patients with PD.
Prioritize a healthy lifestyle and positive outlook
According to Alshaikh, PD can manifest differently in each person. Symptoms, challenges and the rate of progression vary widely. Seeing someone with more advanced symptoms doesn’t necessarily predict one’s future, as each journey with PD is distinct. It’s important to focus on the things you can control. Prioritize brain health, maintain an active lifestyle through regular exercise, and establish care with a neurologist experienced in treating PD.
Alshaikh said, “Remember, while PD may present challenges, there is power in focusing on what you can do today to improve your well-being and contribute to the larger fight against the disease.”
A call to action
April is Parkinson’s awareness month. Get involved by helping to make a difference for those living with Parkinson’s disease.
“You can contribute to the fight against PD by volunteering for research studies that advanced our understanding and treatment of the disease,” Alshaikh suggests. “Alternatively, you could support the community by donating time, resources or money or by sharing your story to raise awareness and inspire others.”
Development Manager for the Rocky
Mountain Chapter of the Parkinson’s Foundation, Kristin Courington, invites everyone to participate in “Moving Day” Saturday, May 3 at Liberty Park. Moving Day is an inspiring and empowering annual fundraising walk event that unites people around the country living with PD, their care partners and loved ones to help beat PD. Moving Day is more than just a walk. It’s a celebration of movement – proven to help manage Parkinson’s symptoms.
Join Michael and Linda Clapier at The Dance Box Studio, 4707 S. Holladay Boulevard, to DanceBack against Parkinson’s disease. For more information about the class schedule, text Michael at 801-8097264 or email him at clapiermichael@ gmail.com.
Join the Parkinson’s Foundation for Moving Day Salt Lake City on May 3 at Liberty Park to walk in support of the community. Activities will begin at 9 a.m. Vendors will be sharing their resources for the community, there will be exercise demonstrations, entertainment, food, prizes and the 1.5-mile walk around Liberty Park.
To make a donation to the Parkinson’s Foundation visit: www.movingDaySaltLakeCity.org.
For more information about the Parkinson’s Foundation contact Kristin Courington at kcourington@parkinsosn.org.
Sidney Heil, Parkinson’s Outreach Department of Neurology, University of Utah, is a resource for people who have recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Contact her at 801-585-2354. l
Michael Clapier, dancing with Ann Eldredge, extends his DanceBack program reach by visiting assisted living centers during the week to help residents achieve their movement goals. (Photo courtesy Linda Clapier)
Andrey Sledkov captures stories in clay with every touch of his fingers
Artist is known worldwide for his monumental and detailed figurative sculptures
By Collette Hayes c.hayes@mycityjournals.com
From monumental sculptures in Moscow, Russia, to intricate figurative sculptures installed in the Boston Museum of Art, Andrey Sledkov captures stories in clay with every touch of his fingers. Through the interplay of simplicity in form and religious, historical and political themes, Sledkov articulates profound thoughts and present-day narratives through the language of classical academic sculpture.
Sledkov is being recognized by the Holladay Arts Council in March for his talent, skill and artistic creativity in capturing the realities and intricacies of life in volume.
According to Sledkov, his art career began at the age of 9 in Russia. “I drew a lot of cartoon heroes and superheroes when I was young,” Sledkov said. “My parents enrolled me in an art school with an accomplished teacher who recognized my potential and told them I would someday be an artist. Now, 25 years later, here I am, working as an artist.”
Sledkov graduated in 2010 from the Moscow Art Institute. When he was just 23 years old, he established his first monument in the Russian capital. A year later, he joined the Moscow Union of Artists and the Moscow Union of Sculptors. He became the author of the first-ever Russian monument to the first Russian tsar, Ivan the Terrible, located in Orel, Russia in October 2016.
He has worked at the side of many sculptors including the eminent modern artist Salavat Shcherbakov who was awarded the title of the People’s Artist of the Russian Federation.
“Sculptor Andrey Sledkov worked in our creative team for a long time,” Shcherbakov said. “He showed himself as a professional and literate artist. Andrey is an interesting and creative person. He has great prospects for development and work as a sculptor.”
When the war between Russia and Ukraine broke out in 2021, Sledkov, his wife, and two small sons relocated to the United States. This move was made possible by American artist and sculptor Stan Watts, owner of Atlas Bronze Casting. Recognizing Sledkov’s immense talent, Watts offered him a position on his team of sculptors in Utah.
Watts contacted an attorney, and soon, Sledkov obtained a visa and was on his way with his family to a new life to live and work in the United States.
In a recent conversation, Watts praised Sledkov, stating, “Andrey is probably the best sculptor I know. He’s young, fast and incredibly creative. He’s truly a master sculptor.” Watts’ words reflect not only Sledkov’s impressive talent, but also the bright future that lay ahead.
“War is always a tragedy, where there is no winning side,” Sledkov said. “People die, and
death is tragic especially when they are brothers, separated by the front line. Someone once said: “Divide and rule!” And that’s how nations were divided, creating differences like flags, borders, religions and so on.”
Born to a Ukrainian mother and a Russian father, Sledkov expresses the confusion of his identity in one of his most recent works, “Tears of Motherlands.” In this piece, two women symbolize their homelands, which have seen their soldiers die by fighting each other. The mothers walk across the battlefield, searching for their sons, but when they find them, they do not know whose son is whose.
“Because we are one people,” Sledkov explains, “everyone is part of the same human race, and for a mother, there is no difference between whose child it is. Both women cry from the grief of loss, and the tragic twist is that these mothers are also sisters.”
Sledkov drew inspiration from the works of Cyrus Dallin to create a portrait bust of the celebrated Utah-born sculptor during a plein air event in Springville, Utah. This bust was gifted to the Cyrus Dallin Art Museum, part of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, where it was recently installed, enriching the museum’s collection and honoring the legacy of one of Utah’s most distinguished artists.
A statue of the renowned inventor Nikola Tesla crafted by Watts and Sledkov was unveiled and dedicated in 2023 at Salt Lake Community College. It is the first of many by the artists that will be placed throughout the United States and Europe and the only one to be placed at a college institution.
Sledkov is the creator of a series of collectible sculptures, “Legends of National Football,” and was repeatedly involved in the development of corporate design and creation of awards for the football club “Rostov.” Rostov is a Russian professional football club based in Rostov-on-Don. The club competes in the Russian Premier League.
Sports events bring together athletes and spectators from around the world, providing a heartfelt opportunity for different cultures to come together, share their ideas, languages and traditions. This connection not only enriches the experience of everyone involved but also reminds us of our shared humanity.
According to Sledkov, his American dream is to create sculptures of legendary National Hockey League (NHL) players. He says, this season, the NHL is witnessing an exciting race. Alexander Ovechkin, the Russian professional ice hockey left winger and captain of the Washington Capitals, vies to break Wayne Gretzky’s record of 894 goals and dethrone one of the greatest sports legends of all time.
“I’ve always strived to be a peacemaker through my art,” Sledkov said, reflecting on the purpose behind his craft. “I want to help bring peace to the world.”
If you would like more information about Sledkov’s art visit his website: www.sledkov. com/en-home. l
In October 2016, Andrey Sledkov became the author of the first-ever Russian monument to the first Russian tsar, Ivan the Terrible located in Orel, Russia. (Photo courtesy Andrey Sledkov)
Andrey Sledkov drew inspiration from the works of Cyrus Dallin to create a portrait bust of the celebrated Utah-born sculptor during a plein air event in Springville, Utah. (Photo courtesy Andrey Sledkov)
(Above) Seraphim Sarovsky is one of the most revered Orthodox saints. The monument was established on July 26, 2016 in Orel, Russia. (Photo courtesy Andrey Sledkov)
(Right) Born to a Ukrainian mother and a Russian father, Andrey Sledkov expresses the confusion of his identity in one of his most recent works, “Tears of Motherlands.” (Photo courtesy Andrey Sledkov)
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By Collette Hayes c.hayes@mycityjournals.com
Scouting America launches statewide food drive
The Utah Food Bank reports that hunger affects 1 in 6 children in Utah. The state saw an increase from 93,000 food-insecure children in 2021 to 143,000 recently, marking a 53% increase. School-age children facing food insecurity are more likely to be absent, hyperactive, and struggle academically in school. Prolonged food deprivation in children can lead to severe mental and physical health challenges. To address food insecurity among children in Utah, Crossroads of the West Council, a local scout council of Scouting America, launched its 39th annual Scouting for Food Drive in February.
A kick-off event was held Feb. 6 at the Granite Education Foundation Donation & Distribution Center in Murray. This year’s food drive sponsors were Bank of Utah, Red Hanger Cleaners, Young Automotive Group, Arctic Circle, Utah National Guard, and Smith’s Food and Drug. The sponsors joined together in launching the annual drive and asked the public to help fill the state pantries with nutritious and nonperishable canned and boxed foods. Each of the sponsors actively supported the food drive by donating bags
to customers, publicizing the food drive, and acting as a collection site for donors.
According to Lorna Koci, chair of the Scouting for Food Drive, the event is supported by a partnership with the Souper Bowl of Caring, a statewide initiative dedicated to fighting hunger locally. It wasn’t a coinci-
dence that Saturday, Feb. 8, was targeted as Scouting for Food Day, when the public typically shops for their Super Bowl parties held on Sunday.
“We are calling on the public to help fill our state pantries with nutritious canned foods such as beef stew, soups, canned meats and vegetables,” Koci said. “We will be asking for food donations at 53 Smith’s Food and Drug stores across the state. Additionally, we are mobilizing 400 Cub Scout packs, Scout troops, and Venture crews to help provide food for 16 community pantries across Utah.”
The food drive came at a time when food supplies at local food pantries were beginning to thin, primarily due to the holiday season. Last year, the drive collected over 100,000 pounds of food for Utahns experiencing food insecurity. This year, Scouts across Utah hoped to gather even more food in an ongoing effort to fight hunger across the state. The Utah National Guard provided the essential workforce, resources and equipment to collect food items from various locations and then made deliveries to the food pantries.
ty will be donating food items for their children's hunger school programs,” Koci said. On Feb. 8, Smith’s stores had special requests and lists for food items needed in the Granite School District. “These items will provide food-insecure children with a meal before, during, and after school and on the weekend. These types of programs will be happening throughout the state as well as in Granite,” Koci said.
According to the Utah Food Bank, many families in Utah are often forced to make difficult choices between basic needs, such as paying rent, keeping the lights on or buying groceries.
“The current economic challenges in our state are impacting many families,” Granite School District social worker Sherrie Sanchez said. “The cost of food at the grocery stores has increased significantly. Feeding a family of four isn’t what it used to be. It’s difficult for kids to focus on schoolwork if they haven’t had their first meal of the day. We are grateful that we can provide students with the food they need, made available through donations to the Granite Education Foundation. We know this is a place we can turn to for support when there are challenges.”
Granite School District is the third largest district in Utah, serving over 58,000 students. Approximately 2,700 students qualify for the federal free and reduced lunch program, and 1,600 students are experiencing some level of homelessness in their communities. The Scouting for Food Drive in Salt Lake County will specifically target the food needs of children in the Granite School District by collecting food donations for the Granite Education Foundation. This 501(c) (3) charitable organization provides essential resources for students, teachers and schools within the District.
“We hope that people in Salt Lake Coun-
Vincent Ni was one of several scouts that welcomed shoppers Feb. 8 at the Smith’s Food and Drug store on Bengal Boulevard in Cottonwood Heights. He encouraged shoppers to donate food to the drive and shared information about the special request items.
“The most important thing about the scout food drive is, it benefits people who go hungry every day,” Ni said. “We’re helping someone to have a better life, at least, I hope so.” l
To address food insecurity among children in Utah, Crossroads of the West Council launched its 39th annual Scouting for Food Drive in February. (Photo courtesy Scouting America)
Unity on the dance floor: Granite District hosts inclusive sweethearts dance
Local schools celebrate community and togetherness at unified sweethearts dance.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Hunter High sophomore Daniela Pacheco was excited to be on the dance floor.
“I take a dance class so it’s going to be fun dancing here with my friends,” she said.
She, along with a busload of her classmates, arrived at Kearns High School just ahead of the Feb. 13 snowstorm for the Granite School District’s unified Sweethearts dance. Buses from across the District, as well as from Murray High, brought students—both with and without disabilities—together for the special event.
Dressed in suits, ties and elegant dresses, the students entered the gymnasium, which had been transformed with red, white, and pink balloons, bows, crepe paper and other festive decorations, all put together by Kearns High student government members hours earlier that day.
“My favorite part is preparing everything and seeing the excitement on their faces as they arrive,” said Kearns sophomore vice president Deven Glade. “We want everyone to feel included at school dances. This one is for unified students, their peer tutors and student governments. It’s going to be fun, just less crowded, but the same music.”
Students danced to the music of Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, Chappell Roan and others played by DJ Russ Powell from Squawkbox Sound, who donated his time. In between songs some students posed at a photo shoot, donated by Bell Photography, or had snacks provided by the Granite Education Foundation.
Kearns High special education teacher Natalie Nelson highlighted the significance of the event.
“It’s a big deal for our students to connect with their peers outside the classroom,” she said. “This dance also offers a chance for special ed students to interact with their peers, the peer tutors and student leaders from other schools.”
Emily Williams, Kearns’ unified coach and student body advisor, said the idea grew out of Kearns hosting their first unified prom last May.
“I talked with unified coaches from other schools who held their own dances, so we thought it would be a fun idea for everyone to have a dance together,” she said. “Unified sports have opened the doors for inclusion, allowing kids from all walks of life to be part of the community. Now, all our students can have fun at a dance together.”
Hunter High special education teacher John Young said the event was a wonderful
opportunity for his students.
“This dance brings together unified programs from across our district and from Murray High,” he said. “It’s a chance for students to connect with their peers, the same ones they play sports with, and now they get to interact in a social setting. It’s a great way for them to get to know each other better.”
Cottonwood High senior Alizia Sherard was doing just that.
“I love dancing,” she said. “My grandma got me this dress, and it’s just beautiful. I’m having so much fun, dancing and meeting new friends.”
Murray High senior Eleanor Myers, president of her school’s chapter of Best Buddies, an organization promoting friendship and leadership for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, said inclusive events are important.
“I love the inclusion unified sports gives us and this is an extension of it by getting everyone together and being accepting of one another,” she said.
Hunter High peer tutor and senior Jada Tingley appreciates the sense of community.
“It’s such a friendly environment,” she said. “You always get a smile and a positive response, no matter who you talk to.”
“These activities exemplify why public education is important,” he said. “This doesn’t happen anywhere, but in public education, where we have a chance for our special education students to interact in en-
or the unified dance, it’s as important of an experience for our special education students as it is for our traditional students. We’d love to see these types of things continue to expand. Our traditional ed kids
High school students from Granite School District and Murray High dance at the unified Sweethearts prom. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
I represent Holladay’s interests on the board of Wasatch Front Waste and Recycling (WFWRD).
WFWRD provides essential services for Holladay including garbage, recycling, and green waste disposal. They also provide our curbside dumpster, seasonal leaf and Christmas tree clean up services. Last year, through these programs Holladay residents achieved some remarkable milestones: they composted 915 tons of waste, recycled 2,044 tons of traditional recycling, and diverted 97 tons of glass from our landfills. These amounts have increased from the previous year and reflect Holladay residents’ commitment to protecting our community and our beautiful state.
Momentum Recycling, in partnership with WFWRD, is now introducing an exciting new opportunity to our city: food waste pickup. This initiative, new to Holladay residents starting last year, diverts food waste away from our landfills, and creates renewable natural gas and carbon-based fertilizer used in local farms.
We tend to think of food waste in our garbage as harmless, knowing that it will decompose. Reality is a bit more complex. In landfills, food waste often lacks the oxygen and water necessary for it to break down. It can take up to 25 years for a single head of cabbage to decompose in a landfill. When the food finally does decompose it emits methane out into the atmosphere – significantly more damaging than carbon dioxide for our already troubled air. The new food waste program offered to our residents captures these gases, keeping them out of our atmosphere and converts them to clean, renewable natural gas. This gas is routed into the municipal pipeline providing a sustainable energy source for approximately 15,000 households or a community the size of Bountiful.
Momentum picks up food waste curbside in provided 16-gallon bins or 5-gallon buckets, similar to existing waste pickup. Once collected the food waste is taken to their facility in North Salt Lake. There it is ground down and mixed with water, screened and introduced into a specialized digester. This machine, with the aid of microbes, transforms the food into natural gas and nutrient rich fertilizer.
WFWRD’s traditional green waste pick up service focuses on yard waste but also can compost fruits, vegetables and eggshells throughout the spring and summer months. This new companion program accepts virtually every kind of food waste, including fruit, vegetables, meat, bones, dairy, fats, liquids, raw and prepared food – everything we think of as ‘food’. It is ‘scrape-the-plate’ service. However, packaging of any kind, including compostable packaging cannot be included– as the process used is not the traditional industrial composting.
The goal of this program is to provide Holladay residents with an affordable, responsible and environmentally friendly way to dispose of their food waste. One of the many things that I love about Holladay is our strong sense of community and desire to protect our way of life for future generations. I believe this opportunity is one piece in that puzzle to help us preserve and protect our community. If you believe that this opportunity would work well for your household and are interested in participating in this service, please visit Momentum Recycling’s website for more information. https://utah.momentumrecycling.com/residentialfood-waste-recycing-in-holladay/
—Council Member Emily Gray, District 5
GRANTS PROCURED
Now that we’re making headway into an exciting new year, we’d like to take a moment to reflect on what we accomplished in 2024. This last year was a big one for Holladay as we celebrated Holladay’s 25th official birthday! From special events and infrastructure projects to being fully staffed for the first time in nearly 8 years, the City worked hard to serve you and run responsibly.
We’re proud to share some of the highlights of our hard work with you and look forward to continuing to uphold a high standard for every Holladay resident.
We supplement City costs by procuring as much grant funding as possible. Last year, our administration team was able to secure $1.5 million in funding from various grants which included the following:
• $100,000 from the Utah Department of Transportation to fill-in sidewalk on 4500 South near Olympus Hills Park.
• $100,000 from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program to replace aged HVAC equipment with efficient units.
• $1,230,000 from the 2024 Legislative Session’s House Bill 488 for the Highland Drive Reconstruction and Complete Street Project.
2 Grant-Funded Projects Completed in 2024
• $75,000 from Salt Lake County Tourism Recreation Cultural Convention Program and a generous private donor to install sports lighting at Holladay Skatepark.
• $500,000 from Utah Department of Transportation for Phase I of sidewalk fill-in on 2700 East.
PUBLIC WORKS & FACILITIES
Our Public Works Team works tirelessly to maintain and improve our infrastructure assets.
• Crosswalks & Sidewalks: Replaced crosswalk stone pavers on Murray Holladay Rd. and Holladay Blvd. with a longer-lasting alternative, and completed Phase I of the sidewalk project on 2700 E from Lincoln Ln. to 3900 S on both sides.
• Roads: Repaved various streets and residential roads, and resurfaced 6200 S.
• Storm Drains: Stormwater mapping & inspecting was completed, and the City began and continued numerous storm drain projects (locations include Casto Ln., Hillsden Dr., Meadowmoor, Cottonwood Ln., and El Dorado.
• Ongoing Projects: Completed work on waterways, replaced various curbs and gutters, and completed bridge repairs on Murray Holladay Rd.
• Rentals: Provided 501 park and room reservations amounting to $30,000 in total revenue.
• Sustainability Efforts: The City is currently in the process of converting all two-stroke engine machines into electric motors to reduce emissions.
PUBLIC SAFETY & PUBLIC HEALTH
We prioritize public safety and health through close partnerships with Unified Police Dept. and Unified Fire Authority, and through in-house efforts.
• Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan (CEMP): Created an updated and comprehensive plan that outlines how the city will prepare for, respond to, recover from, and mitigate against disaster.
Collection of Hard to Recycle Materials - Charm Event
The City of Holladay is excited to announce a Collection of Hard to Recycle Materials (CHaRM) event will take place on Saturday, March 29th from 9am-12pm at the Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church (5335 S Highland Dr).
In partnership with the Utah Recycling Alliance (URA), residents can help keep precious materials out of landfillsmaterials that are capable of being recycled but are not accepted in the City’s curbside collection bins. Keeping these materials out of landfills protects the quality of Utah’s air, land, and water.
During this drive-thru style event, residents can bring the following accepted items:
• Bicycles
• Carpet Pad (padding only, no carpets/rugs)
• Electronics (no batteries, CRT TVs)
• Eye Glasses
• Ink Cartridges
• Lightbulbs (no fluorescents)
• Mattresses & Box Springs ($15 fee/each)*
• Oral Care
• Plastic Bags/Films
• Scrap Metal
• Ski/Snowboard Equipment
• Styrofoam (no food containers)
• Tires ($5 fee/car tire, $12 fee/truck tire)*
*If you are bringing items that require a fee, payment is required at entry via cash or card.
Please note that we are NOT accepting household hazardous waste: batteries, paint, chemicals, etc.
Residents can drop off household hazardous waste materials at the County’s new Household Hazardous Waste Facility (8805 S 700 W, Sandy, UT 84070).
The City aims for this event to provide a convenient & safe way for residents to deliver these items for recycling while knowing that they will be transported to a responsible recycling facility.
We would like to thank the Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church specifically for their partnership in allowing us to use their space!
If you have questions regarding the event, please contact the Utah Recycling Alliance at www.UtahRecyclingAlliance.org.
LIBRARY HAPPENINGS
MARCH
Seed Library - Opening Day!
Grab, grow, and share!
Saturday, March 01: 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Come get some seeds to start your garden and from 3:00 - 5:00 PM grab a microgreens kit (while supplies last) to tide you over till your garden grows. Also, make some fun shrinky- dink plant markers!
Composting with Jim Tehan
Make the best stuff for your garden for free! Saturday, March 29: 11:30am - 1:00pm
Participants will learn how to make the best fertilizer utilizing free ingredients from their kitchen. Like anything else, you can’t buy it as good as you can make it at no cost!
CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS:
Rob Dahle, Mayor rdahle@holladayut.gov
801-580-3056
Ty Brewer, District 1 tbrewer@holladayut.gov 801-550-8747
Matt Durham, District 2 mdurham@holladayut.gov 801-999-0781
Paul Fotheringham, District 3 pfotheringham@holladayut.gov 801-424-3058
Drew Quinn, District 4 dquinn@holladayut.gov 801-860-6130
Emily Gray, District 5 egray@holladayut.gov 801-755-3477
Gina Chamness, City Manager gchamness@holladayut.gov
PUBLIC MEETINGS:
• Implemented the CTC (Communities That Care) process: Utilized grant funds to roll out the CTC process in our city, focusing on building a framework for prevention and community-driven change.
• Hosted or participated in numerous mission-driven events: Organized or took part in several events advancing the Healthy Holladay coalition’s mission, including Naloxone training and distribution, QPR training, an organ donor information session, and a blood drive that exceeded the American Red Cross donation goal.
COMMUNITY BUILDING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT:
We believe in being good neighbors and growing responsibly.
• Legislative Relationships: Fostered relationships with Holladay’s Congressional Delegation with the guidance of Barker Leavitt, Holladay’s federal consultant. Hosted visits by Representative Mike Kennedy and staff and met with Senator Lee’s staff.
• Housing: Studied and assisted the council on passing ordinance amendments that address housing options, including an ADU ordinance, maintaining compliance with state legislation.
• Business Advisory Board: Hosted a variety of events including workshops on crime prevention, the 2nd annual Community Comfort Drive (in partnership with the Huntsman Cancer Institute), 9 Ribbon Cuttings for new or growing Holladay businesses, and HOLLA-Ween treat booths in which 18 businesses participated.
ARTS/CULTURE & EVENTS:
We are proud to offer numerous events and programs through which Holladay residents can better engage in their community and enjoy local talent.
• Record-Breaking Participation: Nearly 20,000 attendees, including 6,450 youth, participated in Arts Council and Historical Commission events throughout the year. Additionally, 1,206 artists were supported in disciplines like visual arts, dance, and music.
• Digital Milestone: The Holladay Historical Commission’s May Preservation Month website, featuring 35 historic sites, garnered 4,297 visits.
• Strengthened Community Partnerships: Collaborations expanded with city committees, businesses, and nonprofits.
• Special Events: This year’s events included a 4th of July Celebration (breakfast, bike parade, concert), the Blue Moon Festival, our first rendition of Movies in the Park, HOLLA-Ween, and a holiday season Tree Lighting. These events boasted over 13,000 attendees collectively.
Heading into 2025, we want to make sure you stay connected! One of our biggest accomplishments this year was redesigning our City website; there you can find many ways to stay up to date on events and other news (HolladayUT.gov).
You can also stay in the know by signing up for our weekly email via the website or by following us on social media (@CityofHolladay).
Thank you for making Holladay a wonderful place to live & serve. For a full list of last year’s accomplishments, please visit our website.
J. James Palmer — In Memoriam
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of J. James Palmer. Jim passed peacefully on January 25th surrounded by family.
Jim served our city with distinction, six years as a Planning Commissioner followed by eight years on our City Council. Jim’s extensive knowledge of Holladay history and the inner workings of municipal government, coupled with exceptional leadership skills helped shepherd our city through its early years of incorporation. He was instrumental in the redevelopment of our Holladay Village, City Hall (repurposing of Holladay Elementary), protecting and improving City Hall Park, construction of fire station #104, implementing the Knudsen Park Master Plan, development of Millrock Park and preservation of The Cotton Bottom, to name just a few.
Compromise was often achieved through Jim’s unique ability to navigate differing, and at times contentious issues. He was a voice a reason, always willing to guide the Commission or Council toward consensus. We all felt privileged to work alongside Jim and are grateful for his dedicated, passionate service to citizens of Holladay. His impact will be felt for generations to come.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Palmer family.
RIP Jim.
Rob Dahle Mayor
Time to Leash Up!
By Salt Lake County Animal Services
Spring is on its way, signaling the perfect opportunity for you and your furry companion to explore the neighborhood, parks, and trails. Before you head out, don’t forget to grab a leash and those essential poop bags!
LEASH LAWS
Many violators of this ordinance will claim that their pet is friendly, or less aggressive when off a leash. However, Salt Lake County Animal Services would like to emphasize that not everyone appreciates encountering a “friendly” off-leash dog, including those with leashed dogs. A leash isn’t just an optional accessory; it’s a legal requirement. If you and your dog are found off-leash in areas other than designated off-leash dog parks, you will receive a ticket and be subject to a fine.
PACK OUT THE POOP
It’s a legal requirement to clean up after your dog. Failure to do so may result in fines. This is considered a public nuisance violation. Whether you’re in the neighborhood or on a busy hiking trail, be a considerate neighbor or hiker by carrying poop bags to clean up after your dog when they poop.
THE LAWS
Curious about the ordinances in your city? Check out AdoptUtahPets.com and visit our “Laws” section to look up the ordinances in your area. Need to contact an Animal Control Officer? Call dispatch at 801-840-4000.
After School Sports at Holladay Lions Recreation Center
Holladay Lions Recreation Center is launching an After School Sports program. It will provide a weekly opportunity for kids ages 6–12 to learn FUNdamentals. A focus on respect, discipline, and proper attitude, while helping them develop sports skills. Each week they will focus on balance and coordination, gross and fine motor skills, all while having fun!
It’s VOLLEYBALL every Thursday in March from 5:15 pm–6 pm for ages 6–12. Registration is required: holladaylionsrec. activityreg.com. This program is free for all My County Rec pass holders, a pilot program from Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation. Find out more about the FREE program for Salt Lake County residents ages 0–18: slco.to/pass.
Welcome Code Enforcement Of cer Chad Pedersen
by Carolina Costa, Communications Mgr
Recently, our code enforcement officer, Warren Dallof, retired after a lengthy career in law enforcement. We are grateful to him for his years of service and the dedication with which he served. Following his retirement, we are pleased to welcome Officer Chad Pedersen to Holladay as the new code enforcement officer.
UPD’s Lieutenant Ackerman shared, “UPD’s Holladay Precinct is thrilled to continue this partnership with the City of Holladay. We believe this service from the UPD will continue to be of great benefit to citizens of this city. This position is part of our Community Policing Team and works very closely with the city on ordinance-related matters…we have selected Officer Chad Pedersen to serve in this code enforcement position. Chad has over 17 years of law enforcement experience and he has worked in a variety of assignments throughout his career that have prepared him for this new position.”
Officer Pedersen, a Utah County native, joined the force out of a desire to work closely with people. As a police officer he has worked in various units including investigations, major crimes, as a traffic officer, and more. Holladay appealed to him for its small-town feel and family-friendly atmosphere. An avid fisher and hunter, Officer Pedersen loves the mountains and is excited to be in our beautiful little corner of the world where it’s a little quieter and neighbors still know each other.
His new role is one we’re glad to have filled. Officer Pedersen feels strongly that code enforcement is a tool that brings uniformity and fairness. He mentioned that it would be hard to build a city like Holladay without those things, and that code enforcement allows us to meet the vision of what Holladay wants to be. His law enforcement background will especially come in handy. Being an officer means that he brings an extra set of knowledge and tools with him, which is a huge asset to residents.
A “people person” by nature, Officer Pedersen is here to work with the public. He recognizes that not all code enforcement issues can be solved overnight, and that the important thing is working together and moving in the right direction. We are so glad that Officer Dallof’s shoes are being filled by someone so deeply dedicated to serving and getting to know this community. As always, we’re grateful to UPD for their continued partnership in offering incredible service to our city.
Welcome to Holladay, Officer Pedersen!
Cont. from UPD: If you have a code enforcement complaint you would like to submit to Chad, you can do so by visiting the city website. You can also reach him by phone at 801-548-8427. Code enforcement complaints that can be reported to Chad include violations involving property, buildings and vehicles. Lastly, we would like to remind the community that if there is a police emergency to still call 911, or the non-emergency 24-hour UPD dispatch center at 801-840-4000.
Rules Regarding Removal of Trees in Holladay
By: Tyler McArthur, Holladay Tree Committee Member for District 1
One of the most common concerns brought to us at the Holladay Tree Committee is from residents who see trees being removed and worry about the negative impact on our Holladay tree canopy. We love trees too and our job as a committee is to provide education and engagement which encourages preservation of our incredibly beautiful and unique tree canopy here. So, we thought it would be helpful to run through the existing ordinances in place that govern the removal trees from properties in Holladay.
A few years ago, a new Tree Canopy Sustainability ordinance was passed (Title 13.77.080). Part of this ordinance details which trees in Holladay are considered “Protected”:
• Community Trees – Trees found in our city parks and other city-owned properties.
• Heritage Trees – Specific trees which have already been recognized as Heritage Trees by the Utah Community Forest Council
• Street Trees – Any tree planted in a public right-of-way, which generally includes park strips.
• Waterway Trees – Tress found around our creeks, streams, and canals.
In order to remove a Protected Tree, a property owner needs to submit an application for a Tree Removal Permit. The permit application, which may change periodically, will require a tree removal plan, a requirement for tree canopy replacement, and will need to be approved by a certified arborist.
Homes and other structures are also continuously being built and remodeled in Holladay, which is a good thing and we love to see new, beautiful buildings come to our community. Sometimes during the planning of a new project, it becomes clear that some trees will need to be removed. Every building permit application that is submitted in Holladay is required to have a Tree Canopy Sustainability Plan. This plan will include detailed inventory of existing trees and contain plans for replacing the trees that will be removed with an equivalent amount of future tree canopy coverage.
Additionally, part of the ordinance governs clear-cutting of trees on privately owned lots. Clear-cutting is defined as removing greater than 60% of the trees on any parcel on which no person resides at the time of removal and is prohibited without a permit and sustainability plan.
In other words, trees cannot be removed by private property owners without a permit if they are 1) Protected Trees, 2) directly impacted by permitted construction activity, or 3) clear-cutting private land.
Inversely, what this also means is that private property owners are allowed to remove trees not falling under any of these above conditions without a permit. This is true even if the trees are large, healthy, or provide privacy or shade for neighbors. The city recognizes that private property rights are important and the Tree Canopy ordinance tries to balance these private interests with the interest of the public. It is also important to remember that there may be very valid reasons that one of our residents has for removing a tree – it may be old, diseased, rotting, or present a danger to people or property in a way that isn’t immediately visible. If the tree is located on private property and doesn’t require a permit for removal, then the property owner can remove it.
One last thing - property boundaries are vertical. If a tree’s branches cross a property line, then a neighbor may cause them to be trimmed or cut back to the property line, even if it results in an unsightly shape to the tree. Hopefully neighbors can, but are not obligated to, work together to create beautiful treescapes along property boundaries for everyone to enjoy.
If you see a tree being removed or worked on in Holladay and you’re concerned that the work is unpermitted and unlawful then:
1. Do not approach the property owner or contractor performing the work. We do not want to risk conflicts among neighbors in emotionally charged situations.
2. Call Code Enforcement at the Holladay Non-Emergency Line 801-743-7000.
3. You can also reach out to the Community Development Director, Jon Teerlink, at 801-527-3890 or jteerlink@holladayut.gov. I’ve personally found that the Community Development Department is very professional and very quick to respond to anything regarding our trees here in Holladay.
Hopefully this helps clarify some of the regulations regarding our trees here in Holladay. Let’s all work together to make Holladay’s tree canopy even more beautiful than it currently is.
Tiny jewels of the art world captivate the Holladay community
Fourth annual Art Show demonstrates the magic of meticulously crafted miniatures
By Collette Hayes
c.hayes@mycityjournals.com
Treasuredtiny jewels adorned the walls of Holladay City Hall Feb. 7-15 during the Holladay Arts Council's fourth annual Tiny Art Show. The weeklong open exhibition captivated visitors with the intriguing allure of 237 small-scale art pieces.
“Tiny Art is our fun show—an open, welcoming space where creativity takes center stage,” Holladay Arts and Culture Manager Megan Attermann said. “We don’t judge the pieces or separate them by skill level; a professional artist’s work might hang right next to a student’s piece of art. While recognizing skill and excellence has its place, it’s just as important to celebrate the creative spirit in all of us.”
Miniature art tends to draw the viewer in, inviting a person to observe the tiny creations that reveal more detail with extended observation. The hallmark of this art form, whether it be painting, etching, or sculpture, is typically it’s created at a scale of approximately 1/16 of the original size.
Historically, miniature paintings were
meticulously created to be held in the palm of one hand, with the understanding if the painting were enlarged many times over, the image would appear complete and cohesive, just as it does when viewed at its small size. This year's Tiny Art exhibition required that all pieces measure no more than 9 inches in either width or length.
For several years, the show has garnered support from the community. This year's show featured 133 artists at every skill level, from aspiring students to accomplished professionals.
“I love the Tiny Art Show because it offers the chance to own a one-of-a-kind piece of art rather than something mass-produced,” Attermann said. “There’s something deeply special about bringing a handcrafted work, made with care by an artist, into your home. It adds a personal touch, making my space feel like a true reflection of myself and my community.”
According to Attermann, new this year to the Tiny Art Show was a special preview showing of the exhibit and a “Tiny Concert” held in the Big Cottonwood Room auditorium at City Hall. The night was filled with artistic creativity and community connection.
“We kicked off the Tiny Art Show with a special Friday night preview, paired with a ‘Tiny Concert,’” Attermann said. “The evening featured the Nathan Spenser Trio, known as ‘America’s Troubadour,’ in partnership with Excellence in the Community. It was the perfect opportunity to immerse in both visual arts and live music.”
A gallery stroll of the exhibition reveals Charlotte Mortimer’s tiny oil portrait, “Maybe Tomorrow,” which immediately captures the observer's attention and invites a moment of quiet reflection.
“I love to paint children because they are so pure and innocent,” Mortimer said. “They have a story to tell, and their souls can be accessed through their eyes. The little girl in my painting ‘Maybe Tomorrow’ is a daydreamer. She is lost in the thoughts of her imagination.”
Mortimer enjoys painting miniature art because it’s a tiny collectible that evokes the nostalgia of childhood and the little treasures we all sought to find.
“The child in me likes tiny things,” Mortimer said. “Creating those tiny treasures is fun and satisfies the perfectionist in me as my strokes need to be accurate to portray a likeness. It is a bit of a challenge to paint tiny
as I can’t be as free and loose with my paint strokes as I can be in larger pieces. And in larger works, I can tell bigger stories.”
Tiny art provides the artist with the challenging opportunity of making a powerful visual statement in minimal space. Artists can spend 15 hours or more creating a 2-inch by 4-inch painting. When complete and observed with a magnifying glass, it is evident the tiny painting contains the exact detail of a larger piece.
“I love the Tiny Art Show because it makes me think more creatively,” textile artist Sheryl Gillilan said. “I decided to make two teeny, tiny landscape quilts with outrageous colors. If there were real hills and trees somewhere on Earth that looked like this, I'd move there immediately.”
Attermann suggests this art show makes ownership of a piece of art more attainable for the public. It’s a chance to come as you are, create freely, and freely enjoy art. An added bonus? Eighty percent of all sales go directly to the artists, helping to support their creative work and sustain their art businesses.
Several local master artists participated in this year's Tiny Art Show: Erin Berrett, Jill Buckmiller, Tricia Cook, Brian Cragun, Rebecca Jessee, Yvonne Krause, Sue Martin, Phil McCuistion, James McGee, Ilene Stowe, Charlotte Mortimer and Susan McFarlane, to name a few.
A tiny piece of art can easily find a perfect spot in the home. Additionally, these original creations by master artists are often budget-friendly making it easier to start an art collection.
Who knows? A visit to The Tiny Art Show held at Holladay City Hall in February 2026 might just be the perfect place to discov
er the tiny gem to kick off an art collection. l
-
The Tiny Art Show captivated visitors with the allure of 237 small-scale art pieces. Shown here is “Ruby” an acrylic by Linda Peterson. (Collette Hayes/City Journals)
Charlotte Mortimer’s tiny oil portrait, “Maybe Tomorrow” captures the observer's attention and invites a moment of quiet reflection. (Collette Hayes/City Journals)
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Building a Strong Adoption Bond with Dogtopia’s ‘You Can Adopt’ Initiative
By Rebecca Olds | rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com
Dogtopia is more than just a doggy daycare and spa, it’s a community of dog lovers.
Holladay resident Jane Dower wasn’t sure if she would be able to adopt a dog, but after three visits to Dogtopia decided to take her new furry friend Moana home with her.
All in all, said Myhriah Young, Dogtopia’s area marketing manager for all Utah locations, Dogtopia is happy to help in any way it can with the smooth transition for both adopted pets and owners to get to know each other, which she said means that making sure “it’s going to be a right fit” for both the animal and owner is essential. That’s why they’re partnering with local shelters in March to help with adoption.
Dower has had Moana for nearly three months now which Dogtopia refers to as the 3-3-3 method to give dogs the “best start” with their new families: three days to decompress, three weeks to learn the routine and three months to feel at home.
3 DAYS TO DECOMPRESS
The first three days allow the newly adopted pet to get to know their new home and family. Introducing them slowly
to different parts of the house and family members can aid in a smooth transition.
3 WEEKS TO LEARN ROUTINE
Whatever the new routine is, school, work or whatever it may look like, will be learned in the first three weeks after adoption.
Young said while the routine might not be perfect, “the more predictable, the better.”
“Whether you use the name they had before, or you decide on a new name, using that name can be a very excellent bonding experience,” she said.
“You're giving them a new name, a new identity and it just allows them to understand that they're yours.”
She said this is when their personality starts to come out as they feel more comfortable, even leading to “not-so-great behaviors.” Young suggests using a doggy daycare facility to help with this transition if that’s the case. This continues into the first three months.
3 MONTHS TO FEEL AT HOME
Three months in and owners start to learn quirks and preferences from their adopted friend. Since dogs are pack animals, they also start to feel more comfortable when they realize that you as the owner can protect them.
“They learn about you, which is a big deal,” she said. “It starts to build, you know, trust, even silly things like they can sleep on their back.”
“The whole reason we're doing this is we really just want people to feel like they can adopt,” Young said. “We need to remember just like in raising kids, it's the same with dogs, especially adopted dogs. It takes a village and these dogs need a home, and they need a place. Not only did [Jane] adopt an amazing dog who is now part of her life, she opened up a space for another dog to be adopted.”
Olympus girls basketball team finishes regular season with third-place region finish
The Olympus girls basketball team headed into the postseason optimistic, reaching the second round after beating Northridge in the opening game.
By Josh McFadden j.mcfadden@mycityjournals.com
Ina challenging region, the Olympus girls basketball team more than held its own.
The Lady Titans finished league play with a 7-5 record, tying Alta for third place behind West and Brighton. Overall, Olympus went 12-8 on the year, with the Class 5A state tournament still to come. The tournament tipped off Feb. 18 with first-round games at the home sites of higher-seeded teams. The Titans defeated Northridge before falling to Bountiful in the second round.
Olympus head coach Whitney Hunsaker believes that playing in a competitive region prepared the team well for the tournament. She is confident that the Titans will be able to go toe to toe with the opponent or opponents they face.
“I am feeling good about going into state tourney,” Hunsaker said prior to the tournament. “We are right in the middle of the pack, so we may have that ability to go under the radar.”
In region play, Olympus lost twice to West
and twice to Brighton and also fell once at Alta, 57-55 on Jan. 17 in a back-and-forth contest. In the rematch on Feb. 7 at Olympus, the Titans got revenge, winning handily, 63-46.
The Titans had some strong defensive efforts this season. They held six opponents to 46 points or fewer. Perhaps most impressive was a 53-17 thrashing of Highland on Jan. 30. In that victory, Olympus surrendered just seven points in the second half and gave up only six field goals all game. Olympus also allowed just 28 points at home to East on Feb. 11 in a 25-point win.
Senior guard/forward Joss Baker has been a force all season.
Baker led the team during the regular season with 20.2 points and 11.2 rebounds a contest. She was tied for fifth in the state in scoring and led 5A in that category. In rebounding, she was second in 5A and sixth in the state. For good measure, she paced the Titans with nearly three steals a game.
With Baker leading the Titans, Hunsaker liked her team’s chances in the postseason.
“We have Joss Baker who is the leading scorer in 5A, so I think we can do some real great things with her,” Hunsaker said.
Baker had multiple games this season with double figures in both scoring and rebounding in the same contest. She posted 13 double-doubles, with season highs of 33 points (Dec. 13
against Box Elder) and 16 rebounds (Jan. 24 against Skyline and Feb. 11 against East). She also hit a season-best five three-pointers Jan. 30 at Highland and posted eight steals Jan. 7 at home against Highland.
But she has had some help along with way.
Seniors Tessa Cromar and Claire Hazen each average around seven points a game. Cromar also averages 2.6 assists a game. Junior forward Cammie Bontempo scores close to five points a game and is second on the squad
with 5.5 rebounds a contest.
Hunsaker and her players knew they would face some tough competition at state. The Titans would have to pull off some upsets over higher-seeded teams to advance. Still, with good defense and execution on the offensive end, Hunsaker believed Olympus could pick up some postseason victories. l
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Tessa Cromar (No. 23) and Cammie Bontempo (No. 3) enjoy a moment during action earlier this season. The Olympus girls basketball team placed third in Region 5. (Photo by Bryan Byerly, BB Sports Pics)
Granite unified basketball teams foster friendship and fun on the court
High school athletes with and without disabilities team up, creating opportunities for teamwork and camaraderie.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Forbasketball enthusiasts, it’s an ideal setting. At any moment, two competitive games are taking place on one of three courts.
But these aren’t just any high school games.
These are unified basketball teams, where students with and without intellectual disabilities play side by side. This approach, based on the belief that practicing and playing together encourages friendship and understanding, is advocated by Boston Iacobazzi, the Special Olympics Utah college-growth coordinator for unified champion schools.
The program has gained significant popularity in recent years, now with more than 200 high school coed unified basketball teams. Districts like Granite have supported the creation of tournaments, giving students more opportunities to play.
Cottonwood High player Nico Steven Gagliarei Campos had just finished his game and was watching a match between Cyprus
Nico Steven Gagliarei Campos
and Skyline high schools. On another courts, Taylorsville squared up against Olympus.
“I love playing basketball and spending time with my teammates,” he said. “I enjoy sharing the ball and giving high-fives. My teammates and I support each other, and we always show respect. Sportsmanship is about the game of basketball and connecting with everyone.”
The sophomore learned the game from his dad and uncle.
“I love the game so much that I practice for two or three hours every single day, even though our team practices 30 minutes every other day. I focus on dribbling, rebounding, boxing out opponents and shooting around,”
he said. “I’m always ready for a game.”
His teammate, Cottonwood sophomore Kennedi Hazzard, values the relationships built through basketball.
Kearns High senior Mario Rivera admits he was initially hesitant about participating.
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“I love helping others and meeting new people,” she said. “Basketball feels like a family. You make so many friends, and it’s so much fun. You get to hang out with them all day.”
Granger head football coach Pete Smolin was in another gym, cheering for the players.
“Most of these students are in unified PE; that is an awesome class,” he said. “We’ve been practicing basketball in the winter, soccer in the fall and track in the spring to prepare them for the unified sports seasons. brought six of my football players to join 22 unified kids on two teams. It’s a powerful experience to see people of all abilities working together.”
Through the unified model, Smolin believes everyone benefits, learning from one another.
“In our football program, we focus a lot on character and leadership development, and we also do a lot of community service, like this, about 100 hours every year. It helps develop the entire student-athlete,” he added.
Granger junior Ifo Pili, one of the football players, values his time on the court.
“This is a really great experience, and I’ve learned to have a lot of patience,” he said. “These guys are always upbeat, always have a smile on their faces. They have selfless joy, no matter the circumstances. We helped them learn the basic skills, but for them, it’s about enjoying the game and being part of a team that represents our school.”
Watching his school play Hunter High,
“At first, I was scared. I didn’t know how to help or teach these kids, or what to expect,” he said. “But once I came, I realized they’re just like me and everyone else. I just needed to talk to them and get to know them. I’ve helped in our unified PE class and as a peer tutor, and I have joined them during lunch. I give them high-fives in the hallways. Unified sports is a perfect fit because I love sports and enjoy working with kids. Seeing them smile and become friends is the best.”
Kearns High’s Special Education teacher Natalie Nelson has witnessed the friendships which have blossomed through the unified PE class and sports programs.
“It’s been a meaningful experience for all the kids, both with and without special needs,” she said. “They’re learning how to interact with each other, and those friendships often extend outside the classroom, with kids socializing in the hallways or eating lunch together. For parents, it’s an incredible experience to watch their kids participate in sports for the first time. There’s so much pride when they hear the crowd cheering for their child. It’s brought friendships, teamwork, self-pride, skill development, acceptance—so many positive outcomes.”
For Kearns junior Noah Williams, the boost in confidence is clear.
“I’ve made 40 baskets,” he said. “I like winning.”
Unified teams from the Granite School District will compete in the regional tournament the week of March 10, with the state unified basketball tournament set for March 26 at the Delta Center. l
Cottonwood takes the shot during the unified basketball game against Skyline High at Granite School District’s unified tournament. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Your
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Trouble adapting to low light
Loss of central vision, which is necessary for driving, reading, recognizing faces and pe orming close-up work
Loss of central vision, which is necessary for driving, reading, recognizing faces and pe orming close-up work
We often talk about infamous warriors like Harriet Tubman, Susan B. Anthony, Amelia Earhart, and justice OG Ruth Bader Ginsburg, but so many women have left their mark on this world without acclaim, awards or national days.
President Trump’s executive order mandates a pause on federal events promoting diversity, including Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Pride Month and Holocaust Remembrance Day. But I’m not a federal employee and refuse to follow his directive. Happy Women’s History Month!
Throughout the ages, women are described as the gentler sex, the homemakers and the caretakers. And, yes, women are given those roles. But women are also fierce queens, savage muses, legendary goddesses and wild forces of nature.
We often talk about infamous warriors like Harriet Tubman, Susan B. Anthony and Supreme Court Justice (and original-gangster) Ruth Bader Ginsburg, but so many women have left their mark on this world without acclaim, awards or national days.
Women like Mrs. Strange who made storytime at the Murray Library a magical experience. Her rendition of “The Three Billy Goats Gruff” was an Oscar-worthy perfor-
Peri Kinder Life and Laughter
A Woman’s Work
mance. When the biggest billy goat knocked the mean, ugly troll off the bridge, we all cheered in triumph.
Or women like Frankie Whipple, my long-suffering, patient, eternally-frustrated piano teacher. She listened to my musical scales, arpeggios and recital pieces without visibly wincing. Usually. The only annoyance she displayed was when I didn’t do my music theory lesson for five years straight.
Mrs. Lambert taught my second grade class at Viewmont Elementary. Under her guidance, I went from reading to show off to reading for pleasure. She taught me poetry, art and a life-lesson about friendship. Plus, she wore hip,‘70s polyester pantsuits that looked amazing.
Grandma Brickey was a fearless powerhouse. She loved her grandkids without judgement and let us eat all her chocolate raisin cake. Widowed for decades, she had many boyfriends but refused to give up her independence. She was a dancing queen, a
vivacious flirt and a woman who lived life on her own terms.
When I was 12-years-old, a neighbor lady trusted me to watch her children all summer. Thanks to her, I quickly learned I was a terrible babysitter and should probably never have children.
Women like Ms. Pettis, my ninth-grade English teacher at Riverview Junior High, taught me that even when I thought my life was over, I was valuable to her. She showed up at my home every week to make sure I stayed on top of my assignments and she encouraged my writing. She is a hero.
My Aunt Judy created a safe place for 8-year-old me when I ran away from home because Mom was censoring the books I read. She didn’t think “Jaws” was an acceptable summer read for a third-grader but Aunt Judy let me stay the night until I calmed down. Then I read “Jaws” in secret.
Renee Smith was my dance instructor for eight years. She taught me tap, jazz and ballet, and encouraged me to try out for “The Nutcracker”. But because I wasn’t actually coordinated, I never landed a part. She always believed I would. At least she said she did.
Mom was an unrivaled teacher, encouraging me to read (except “Jaws”), write poetry, make music, dance, ride bikes, play basketball and try new things. It wasn’t her
fault I didn’t see her value until I became a mom.
My daughters, my granddaughters, my sisters, my nieces, my cousins, my aunts, my grandmothers, my friends, my colleagues, my teachers: all these women have made me what I am today. Yes, it’s their fault.
Even when the president (and Google) removes Women’s History Month from the calendar, women will do what we’ve always done: help other women to be powerful, to find their voice, to live their passion, to stand up for what’s right, to lead and to shine brighter than ever. Don’t mistake our gentle demeanor for passivity.
It’s natural to wonder whether you’re truly prepared for the future.
Many of us feel uncertain about our retirement savings, and part of that uncertainty can come from not being completely fluent in the key aspects of retirement planning.
Retirement uency isn’t about mapping out every last detail of how you’ll spend your time in retired life. It’s about understanding the fundamentals - like Social Security, health care, savings strategies - and how to leverage those in your retirement plans. So, how well do you understand these building blocks of a secure retirement?
What would you score yourself on a scale from 1-10 on the following?
✔ I have a written income plan that details which accounts to draw from and when. I know how assets and income are taxed when I receive, sell, or take withdrawals.
✔ I have a good understanding of the level of risk associated with my savings and investments. I’m con dent it aligns with my goals in retirement.
✔ I have a well-thought-out plan to reduce taxes every year during my retirement. I know my RMD’s are managed in a way that minimizes taxes.
✔ I have a plan to cover all of my medical needs - I understand all of my options when it comes to Medicare and I feel prepared for any potential healthcare costs.
✔ I am con dent my assets will be transferred according to my wishes when I am gone. My estate plan is structured to minimize the tax burden on my heirs, ensuring that they inherit as much of my assets as possible.
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