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Assistant principal award
Midvale’s ConnieTrue Simons up for national award Page 7
HD dedicates undefeated season to fallen teammate.
The 4A state drill finals kicked off
with military routines, a performance Hillcrest’s “HD” team had perfected throughout the season.
In fact, under the leadership of head coach Chelsea Divine, this season was the first time in 14 years the team had won every military routine and gone undefeated, capturing the No. 1 ranking going into the state competition.
“We were the first of nine teams to perform, drawing the No. 1 spot,” Divine said. “It was tough being the first to perform, but our team took the floor confidently and nailed the routine perfectly.”
Their performance set the tone for the rest of their routines. In lavender dresses, the team delivered a flawless dance to Dolly Parton’s rendition of "Purple Rain."
“The girls performed beautifully, and we received nothing but praise for that routine,” Divine said.
Their final routine, “Mad Hatter,” highlighted the team's fun spirit and personalities.
However, just the week before, their costumes were adjusted from the original heavy jackets into lighter vests, thanks to the sewing skills of several of the team members’ mothers.
“It made all the difference,”
Continued page 4
Ranked choice elections
City to continue alternative voting method Page 19
Hillcrest drill team clinches back-to-back state titles
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Hillcrest High drill team, fondly known as “HD,” celebrates with its second consecutive state title. (Photo courtesy of Kendal Thomas)
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.
Divine remarked.
Despite executing three solid performances, Hillcrest knew the competition was close.
“The level of talent across all teams is amazing. That’s what makes drill competitions so exciting,” Divine said. “But we came off the floor knowing we did the best that we could and were proud of our performances.”
When the results were announced, the team, along with Divine and assistant coaches Sydney McArthur and Abby McCleary, erupted in tears and cheers. Hillcrest finished first in both military and show, and second in dance, winning back-to-back 4A titles.
“This season has been incredible. We were focused on improving just 1% every day, which kept the pressure off and helped us build a championship team,” Divine said. “It’s been the best year ever.”
Earlier, HD had repeated the region 10 title.
Though Divine is still relishing the victory, there’s no time to rest. The team was set to compete at nationals, the Contest of Champions Feb. 28 and March 1 in Orlando. Hillcrest will perform in military, dance, pom and hip-hop.
“Nationals is an amazing opportunity for the girls to see teams from all over the country,” Divine said. “Military is unique to Utah, and we’ll stand out with that routine. It’s all about precision, teamwork and athleticism.”
This season was about more than just the wins at Utah Valley University, Southern Utah University, and the Rocky Mountain Drill Invitational. It was dedicated to Olivia Rodgerson, a member of the 2018 team who tragically died in a car accident on her way to practice.
“Our theme this year was ‘All for One, 1 4 All,’ which had a special meaning for us,”
Divine said. “The ‘1 4’ or 14 was Olivia’s number the year she passed, and it brought purpose to our season. Our team embraced the theme, even though they didn’t know her personally. There’s a bond in Hillcrest drill, and their hearts went out to the 2018 team,” said Divine, who found a personal connection as it is her 14th year coaching.
Divine said she was inspired by Dolly Parton’s cover of “Purple Rain” and chose it for the team’s dance routine. It tied in as purple was Olivia’s favorite color.
“We dedicated the dance to Olivia and her family and her team. That was an incredibly difficult year for all of us,” Divine said.
“At one of our alumni practices, some of the 2018 team members shared stories with this year’s team, then our girls wrote letters to Olivia’s mom. The captains (Aniyah Hassel, Eden McFarland, Samantha Sherrod, Halle McMorris, Ruby Hurst and Sev Rivera) delivered the letters, sharing how they were honoring her.”
The season also included performing at the Dance for Life at Capitol Theatre, team dinners, skating and a movie night to watch “Alice in Wonderland,” to help the team create a vision board to get them into their show character.
At the start of the season, Divine shared a visual exercise with the team, showing them a jar filled with ping pong balls, sand and water.
“We focused on the important things— the ping pong balls. The sand and water represented distractions and drama which could get in the way of our goal of being a championship team. As a sisterhood, we support each other, work hard, and keep our focus on what truly matters,” Divine said. “The girls listened, worked hard and kicked butt.”
After nationals, Hillcrest drill, with six seniors, will perform one last time this spring at their year-end showcase at 6 p.m., March 11. The $5 tickets will support the HD program. l
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Hillcrest High performs its Mad Hatter routine at the 4A state championships. (Photo courtesy of Marie Perry)
Hillcrest High drill team wows the crowd during halftime of their homecoming football game against Murray High. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Speaker encourages Hillcrest students ‘to make waves’ as
Hillcrest
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
BeckyGuertler recalls her early days in sales at Xerox, where she had no prior experience in the field.
“I had never sold anything before in my life and my boss told me every day for the first three months, ‘You need to go talk to and get 20 new business cards; if you come back with one less than 20 and not with the name of the person you could talk to about their copier, you're fired,’” she said.
One of her first sales visits, Guertler introduced herself and asked to speak to the person in charge of purchasing copiers.
“The woman took my card, didn’t smile, and just stared at me. Then, without a word, she tore it in half and dropped it in the trash,” Guertler recalled. “I pulled another card from my pocket, matched her same energy, and said, 'Looks like you lost my card. Here’s another—I've got plenty.' She started laughing and told me the only reason she did that was because they had just gotten a new copier. I replied, 'Sooner or later, you're going to need another one. At least I want to make sure the person who will handles that knows my name.'”
Guertler said the incident taught her how to handle tough situations.
“That was exactly what I needed. These are opportunities, not obstacles, because you have an opportunity to figure out how to navigate through those challenges as you're going along,” she said.
Guertler shared this story to about 75 Hillcrest High students during a session of Meet the Pro speaker series, part of a work-based learning program which connects students’ classroom learning to real-world career experiences.
The speaker said her varied careers equipped her with valuable skills and a strong network, which she draws upon in her current
role as the leader of the Utah Veteran Business Resource Center. There, Guertler helps veterans, active-duty service members, and military spouses start their own businesses.
“When they have an idea, we help them go forward, but if it's not going to work, we have those hard conversations too. We're not just the bobble heads in the room,” she said. “We connect them with opportunities and resources, help them refine their ideas, develop financial projections, negotiate, market their business, and learn how to pitch their products or services. We work with businesses across all sectors.”
Her extensive career has allowed her to cultivate a diverse network, ranging from import/export companies to food trucks to sales professionals—and even the lady who ripped up her card—people who now mentor veterans through her program.
“The people you meet now, whether in your job or through childhood activities like selling candy or wrapping paper, are part of your network. I have a whole army of supporters who help our veterans because of this network. If a veteran has a problem or question, I can reach out to someone who can help,” Guertler said.
She urged Hillcrest students to start build-
preteen as part of the Young Entrepreneurs Academy.
Using the same approach as her Xerox boss, she took 20 young entrepreneurs to an economic summit and asked them each to get five business cards of people who may help them launch their businesses.
“At one point, an 11-year-old girl said, 'No one wants to talk to me because I’m just a kid.’ I told her, 'You're standing on the same carpet, breathing the same air, and attending the same event as everyone else. So why aren't you seeing yourself at their level? They're not talking to you because you're seeing yourself as a kid. Go back in there as a business owner.' I couldn't get her out of the room—she ended up collecting 40 cards by talking to everyone," Guertler said.
Her message was clear: “Don’t just test the waters, get in there and make waves.”
Guertler then asked the Hillcrest students to take a moment to write down what motivates them and who inspires them. She also asked them to distinguish between “vanity metrics” and “actionable metrics.”
“Vanity metrics are the likes, the shares, the comments people get on their social media. The actionable metrics are what moves their bottom line, what puts money in their pockets,
to look sharp when you’ve done none of the work, but it’s the actionable metrics in your life that will make the biggest difference,” Guertler said. “Take a minute from swimming and look at the waves you've made as you're moving
Speaker Becky Guertler motivates students to meet people who they can use to help them as they enter the career-world. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Young builders dream big: East Midvale students compete in construction challenge
East Midvale Elementary students showcase creativity in construction contest; one advances to regional competition.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Imagination, creativity, and problem-solving skills were on full display as more than 60 third- to sixth-grade students from East Midvale Elementary participated in a unique challenge. Armed with 100 building blocks, a piece of tinfoil, a 12-inch string, a sheet of construction paper, and a rock, they were tasked with building something within a 45-minute time frame using at least 75 blocks and incorporating three additional items.
The Block Kids Building Program contest, organized by the local chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction, offered students an introduction to the construction industry. Two weeks before the competition, the chapter provided students with insight into various construction careers and explained the details of the contest.
“We want to get them thinking about their careers,” said Patty Waldhouse, NAWIC contest chair. “This is an event we do each year; it's just a great way to introduce young minds to the construction industry and get them thinking about what they want to do and what interests them, and what can challenge them.”
Many of the students prepared for the competition by sketching their plans on graph paper.
Fourth-grader Simati Lealiiee brought his design for a two-story house.
“I wanted to help people have a place to live so I made a two-story house,” Simati said. “It was fun, and I made friends with kids in other grades.”
After the construction phase, students returned to their classrooms before individually presenting their creations to a pair of judges from the construction industry.
“Our national committee comes up with criteria and questions for the judges to ask like ‘Why did you build this?’ and ‘If you had more time, what would you change?’” Waldhouse said. “The judges evaluate the students based on their projects, presentations, enthusiasm, creativity and how their creations could improve the world.”
Fifth-grader Maria Kalaw constructed a hospital with a helipad.
“Hospitals are one of the most important places to help people, especially during COVID when people didn't have medicine,” she said. “They asked me why there is a helipad and why I wanted to build a hospital.”
She enjoyed the challenge and had enough time to rebuild her project to make it better.
“It was fun to do it; I might want a career in designing homes,” she said.
Fourth-grader Joseph Matias built an excavator.
“Mine went smoothly until the middle part, when I was using paper so it made it a little bit unstable, but I was able to fix it,” he said. “I knew if I made a mistake, I could always fix that.”
Joseph remembered the judges asking him, “‘Why did I build this? Would I do it again? What do I want to be when I grow up?’ I told them it was fun to build it, and I want to be a shooting guard for the Lakers.”
Third-grader Alexandra Korhoren created a community garden for flowers, vegetables and fruits.
“I used string to create rectangular areas for all the different vegetables,” she said. “I learned sometimes mistakes can turn out well, or else I need to keep trying.”
Her classmate Ellee Martinez liked seeing other students’ projects.
“It was fun to see what everyone else made,” she said. “I made an ice skating rink with lights. It was a good experience, and I realized even if I don’t win, I had fun. I’d definitely do it again.”
East Midvale Community School Facilitator Shelley McCall appreciated the opportunity the event gave students to test their creativity and resilience.
“One student told me, ‘It was harder to build without instructions,’” she said. “They’re used to following LEGO kit instructions, so this event encouraged them to think outside the box.”
McCall also valued the chance for students to explore various career paths from their career partners.
“This helps them understand careers in construction are diverse—from bricklaying to engineering, architecture, and even plumbing,” she said. “They can start exploring these options through classes in middle school and high school and pathways at CTEC.”
Waldhouse said the event introduces students to the construction industry, where they can earn a good living without accumulating student debt.
“It’s a chance to explore a variety of careers without the burden of tuition loans,” she said. “We want them to consider all the options available to them.”
The top three winners received gift cards—$100 for first place, $75 for second, and $50 for third. The first-place winner also received a set of building blocks, and all participants received swag bags.
Maria, who took third place, plans to use her gift card to replace her damaged backpack.
Joseph was the overall winner.
“I practiced at home beforehand. I honestly didn't think I would win the competition, I just wanted to do it
This helps them understand careers in construction are diverse— from bricklaying to engineering, architecture, and even plumbing. They can start exploring these options through classes in middle school and high school and pathways at CTEC.
Shelley McCall
and have fun,” he said.
The judges photographed Joseph’s excavator from all angles, and his project will be shared with the Pacific-Southwest region for competition against 11 other chapter winners. The regional winner will be announced in April, and that winner will compete at the national level, with results expected in August.
Waldhouse explained the local NAWIC chapter has hosted the event for over 25 years, reaching out each year to a different Title I school.
“The best part for me is hearing the students’ ideas— many want to build shelters for pets since people can’t have them in homeless shelters, more hospitals to provide people with medicine, or farms to provide food for people who can’t afford groceries,” she said. “These young students are thinking beyond their years; it’s inspiring how they want to help one another.” l
East Midvale Elementary students took part of the Block Kids Building Program contest, organized by the local chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction. (Shelley McCall/ East Midvale Elementary)
Using building blocks, tinfoil, string, construction paper and a rock, every participant created an entry in the recent Block Kids Building Program contest. (Shelley McCall/East Midvale Elementary)
Midvale Middle’s ConnieTrue Simons named Utah’s middle school assistant principal of year.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
ConnieTrueSimons insisted on being the teacher when she played “school” as a youngster.
“I didn’t want to be a student; I had to be the teacher,” she said. “I made handouts for my friends, and I just loved it.”
This passion for education carried over into Simons' 13 years as an English and reading teacher at Albion Middle, where she treasures examples of students' exceptional work. She later spent six years as an instructional coach before stepping into the role of assistant principal at Midvale Middle, a position she has held for the past six years.
“I absolutely love this school and this community,” she said. “It’s unlike any other school in the Canyons School District. We have so many amazing students from around the world. When I walk through the halls, I see people from all around the world. I hear kids speaking different languages, and when I enter the classrooms, it's beautiful to see them all learning together. You have students from Mexico, Syria, Scotland, and other heritages, collaborating and building something together.”
Her dedication to students was amongst the reasons why Simons was selected as the Utah Middle School Assistant Principal of the Year, an award presented by the Utah Association of Secondary School Principals. The 25-year educator received the award at the association’s mid-winter conference in late January in St. George and a banner commemorating the honor hangs above the school cafeteria.
“It was such a surprise to win,” she said, adding she was caught off guard hearing the news. “I had been outside for our after-school duties and as I was walking in, Courtney (Long, principal) asked me to come to the forum to help me set up for the National Junior Honor Society that night. When we walked in, all these people started clapping. I was shocked.”
Long had nominated her this past fall. Their working friendship dates to when he was a substitute teacher for her.
“For over half of my education career, I’ve worked with her,” he said. “I've never met anybody more dedicated to student success than her. She does anything and everything to help students.”
In his recommendation, he wrote: “She shows through her words and actions how much she wants to be at our school and help our kids grow academically and behaviorally. Holistic care is a core value to Connie. Additionally, she is a guru at data collection
and dissemination. As we grapple with how to make systemic changes on our campus to best support our students, she leads out on the collection and data analysis needed to determine what actions will be most effective. She truly believes all students can learn and that all teachers can meet the needs of our students.”
Although Simons' role as assistant principal removes her from the classroom, she continues to teach.
“I love working with the students— even when they've had behavior issues, I talk them through what happened and what they could do better,” she said. “I’m still teaching, it's just teaching behavior rather than content.”
Her responsibilities at Midvale Middle are varied, from observing teachers and supervising students during meals, to planning assemblies and assisting with the hiring of new faculty. Currently, she's promoting a "no tardy" competition to encourage students to arrive on time for class.
Simons and other administrators also oversee goals related to literacy, STEM, and positive behavior for the school’s 801 students. This year, with Canyons School District adopting the MAP Growth standardized test, it’s been challenging.
“It’s an adaptive test, so it took us awhile to gauge where the kids were, but the data we're receiving—on vocabulary, informational texts, literary texts—is more useful than just a raw score,” she said. “As our students progress, we’re celebrating their growth.”
She also loves celebrating students’ diversity. While Midvale Middle officially has 11 native languages spoken by students, she knows many more fall under the “other” category.
“My favorite event is our culture night,” she said. “Our students perform dances or songs representative of their culture of origin, and it's a ton of fun. We have different cultural booth activities and local food trucks serving cuisine from around the world. We even have a tasting station where people can try candies from different cultures.”
Now, Simons is in the running for the National Middle Level Assistant Principal of the Year. She has submitted her application, including short essays, and in April, she will head to Washington, D.C. for the award ceremony.
“I love teaching students in every capacity,” she said. “I had a Utah Studies teacher who believed in me. She was one of those great teachers who encouraged me, and I ended up being the first person in my family to graduate from college. It was teachers like her who were a role model for me and now as I see students who are in high school coming back to visit, I hope I’ve made a similar impact on them as well.” l
Midvale Middle’s ConnieTrue Simons was named Utah Middle School Assistant Principal of the Year. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Break the silence during Self-Injury Awareness Month
DBT network aims to address nonsuicidal selfharm with compassion and nonjudgment
By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com
In March, the observance of Self-Injury Awareness Month offers compassion and understanding to the reality of nonsuicidal self-harm. By breaking the silence and challenging stigmas, open conversations can encourage those struggling with mental health issues to reach out for help.
Kristie Lemmon founded the DBT Network of Utah (9289 S. Redwood Road), using Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help people manage strong emotions. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with more than 25 years of experience working with clients, Lemmon is dedicated to creating a more empathetic world so those suffering can find a path to healing.
“They self-harm because they’re in pain and it’s a way that they manage their pain,” she said. “They don’t have the skills to manage the emotional pain that they’re feeling and oftentimes they’ll do that because it helps to manage the pain physiologically. Dialectical behavior therapy is effective in helping to reduce self-injury in adults and in adolescents. We see it as a symptom of the problem, not the problem.”
Lemmon said the biggest misconception about self-injury is that it’s an attention-seeking tool. For some people who hurt themselves deliberately, it can offer temporary relief from mental agony. Others might use the practice as punishment for themselves or to prove they can tolerate
physical pain.
Nonsuicidal self-injury includes cutting, burning, hitting, scratching or rubbing that leaves tissue damage to the body. It can be hard to diagnose because the person engaging in self-harm often keeps it a secret from those around them.
Prolonged self-injury can lead to disfigurement, scarring, infection and a mental health decline. While nonsuicidal self-harm isn’t intended to die by suicide, the risk of suicide increases with long-term self-injury.
“Our goal is to figure out the reason why, see where the skill’s deficit is and to help clients learn better skills to manage the stress and manage emotions and to communicate more effectively their pain,” Lemmon said. “They just don’t know another way to cope and it can become almost addictive in nature because of the cycle of the endorphins that get released when they self-harm.”
Treatment at the DBT Network of Utah consists of individual therapy and skills classes as people learn to manage distress in ways that do not incur bodily harm. Lemmon encourages family members not to shame their loved ones inflicting self-harm and not to be judgmental about it.
By getting people into therapy, healing can begin. Learning new behaviors, identifying triggers and building safe and trusted relationships can bring a focus on the selfharm’s root cause. While self-injury is typically seen in adults and teens, Lemmon is beginning to see patients in elementary school.
“Treatment is possible, and [self-harm] is something that people can stop doing,” she said. “I think sometimes people feel like they’re in a really vicious cycle with it and
they start to feel hopeless, but it’s not hopeless.”
NeuroHealth in South Jordan (10437 S. Temple Drive, Suite 200) offers a different type of treatment to help those struggling with mental health issues. Clinic Manager Sophia Martial said coordinators at NeuroHealth are available to discuss options and treatments provided including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.
“Self-harm is often used as a coping mechanism to try and alleviate feelings of depression and anxiety,” Martial said. “Struggling with self-harm can be an extremely isolating experience. If you are struggling with self-injury, you are not alone and there are people available to help you. Reach out to trusted family and friends for support.”
Visit DBTNetwork of Utah.net or NeuroHealthUtah. com for more information about treatment for self-injury.l
The right ER. Right around the corner.
When you need emergency care fast, the closest emergency room is a smart thing to know. You never know the level of care you’ll need when an emergency happens and choosing the right ER can make all the difference. And a hospital ER comes with the confidence of additional services right on-site.
1-303-673-8166 (TTY: 711).
By drawing attention to self-harm during Self-Injury Awareness Month, practitioners encourage people to reach out for help and learn new coping skills to create a better life. (Canva Stock)
Canyons School District’s chess tournament puts middle schoolers in check
Indian Hills Middle repeat as middle school chess tournament champs, but coaches say all players learn more than the game.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
For 17 years, Union Middle School safety advocate Ginger Gines is a dedicated coach, guiding students through the highs and lows of intramurals.
“I love the kids,” she said. “I love to coach them. I want them to all feel like they're important, even if they don’t win. The skills they learn—like communication and teamwork—are invaluable.”
She adds: “It’s not just about my team winning. I want all the students to succeed, even those from other schools. I cheer for everyone.”
Gines was one of 10 coaches at Canyons School District’s middle school chess tournament where the top eight chess players from each of the middle schools sat at tables playing opponents of equal skill levels.
“Even though chess is an individual sport, the intramurals program helps students who may not have access to traditional team sports,” she said. “They still develop camaraderie, learn from each other, and grow together. It’s an amazing environment to be a part of.”
Gines, also a coach for cross country, basketball and soccer, believes students are gaining far more than they expect through intramurals.
“Chess helps with concentration, determination and sportsmanship,” she explained. “Students learn how to interact with others, even those who aren’t on their team. It’s about improving every time.”
After hours of playing one snowy January Saturday morning, Indian Hills emerged as the back-to-back champions of the intramural chess tournament, narrowly defeating Albion Middle School by one point. Midvale Middle School took third.
In between rounds, students bonded, some supporting their teammates and making friends.
Indian Hills eighth-grader Sam Broadbent played a game of chess against Midvale Middle eighth-grader Elijah Woolley in the bleachers.
“I like chess; I like to challenge myself,” said Sam, who was a board winner last year and again, this year. “It's like a puzzle. You have to figure out how to trap the other person or untrap yourself.”
Elijah enjoys the calmer pace of chess compared to other sports.
“It’s just more relaxing than something like football,” he said. “It’s not as physically intense, but it’s still competitive and fun.”
Both boys also ran cross country in the fall. March will bring three-on-three intramu-
ral basketball tournaments and soccer will be played in May.
Coaching with Gines is eighth-grade math teacher Ily Murdock.
“I love seeing how chess provides a level playing field for multilingual students, even those who speak limited English,” Murdock said. “It transcends language barriers, and the kids are respectful, focused and engaged in the game. They come to my classroom after school, eager to set up their chess boards, and when they’re done, they clean up. I like how we’re building positive relationships in my classroom outside of math.”
Murdock sees the cognitive benefits of chess.
“Playing chess strengthens their logic skills. They're noticing patterns. There are building resiliency and it’s a game which appeals to boys and girls, those who may not be interested in traditional sports,” she said.
Many Union players who had finished their rounds were playing more relaxed games.
“It’s nice they’re playing in between rounds. They’re playing a low stakes game of Spot. It calms them down. They’re all playing together; it's helping with vocabulary and they’re having fun. I suggested they wear nerdy hats to remind them chess is a game and to have fun today.”
Draper Park eighth-grade math teacher Shannen Moore learned to play at her elementary after-school program in California though she never competed. Now she’s coaching her own team.
“We practice once per week for an hour for 10 weeks,” she said. “We focus on the rules of the tournament and getting comfortable with things like using timers. It’s a great way for students to develop their strategic thinking, handle wins and losses, and use their minds to succeed, instead of relying on physical skills. They also get a chance to play against people they don’t know, which is a valuable experience.”
Jessica Pike, Midvale Middle’s eighthgrade science teacher, stepped up to be coach for the 20 students who were eager to join the school’s chess program.
“I love watching the kids grow their skills, figure out how to win and gain social skills,” she said. “The club members have become good friends and often bring their chess boards to school to play when they can. Chess is a great way to spend time together after school.”
District intramurals coordinator Taylor Hansen said the chess program expanded last year, increasing from six to eight students per school.
“Intramurals are participation based, not competition based,” he said. “It naturally becomes competition based, but we wanted to have more people participate. It’s giving them opportunity to learn, to play, to connect and to have fun.” l
Individual board winners
Board 1 – Wade
Woodbury, Albion
Board 2 – Sam Chen, Draper Park
Board 3 – Yuun Kim, Midvale
Board 4 – Oliver Seal, Indian Hills
Board 5 – Samuel Humphrey, Indian Hills
Board 6 – Charlie Griggs, Albion
Board 7 – James Gardner, Indian Hills and William Baxter, Midvale Board 8 – Sam Broadbent, Indian Hills l
Canyons School District middle school students ponder their next moves during the districtwide intramural chess tournament.
(Julie Slama/City Journals)
Record-breaking start: Huskies track team poised for strong spring season
Hillcrest track team shines early with record-breaking indoor performances; no home meets scheduled as track expansion is underway.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
The indoor track season is still ongoing, but four of the 20 Hillcrest High athletes competing have already set new school records. If this trend is any sign of things to come, coach Scott Stucki is optimistic about the upcoming spring track season.
Senior Adam Collins broke the school’s indoor shot put record and will have another opportunity to improve it at the 45th Simplot Games, taking place Feb. 20-22 in Idaho.
“Our boys’ throwing team is going to be strong this spring,” Stucki said. “Adam is going to qualify for state, and senior Lyrik Martinez is likely to make it in the javelin. Our girls are looking strong, too.”
Sophomore Coco Collins has set the pace for the girls, breaking the indoor shot put record.
The distance teams are also showing promising results, with senior Josh Martin, who finished ninth in the 4A state cross country race in October, improving the
school record in the mile by three seconds. Sophomore Ella Goodman has broken three records: the 1600 by one second, the 800 by nine seconds, and the mile by 21 seconds.
“Ella is on track to break the outdoor 800 record,” Stucki said. “Josh is going to qualify in all his events: the 800, the 1600, and the 3200. We’ll choose two events for him, and he’ll anchor our 4x400 and 4x800 relay teams.”
Stucki anticipates all the boys’ relays will compete at state, though he is still evaluating the girls’ relays based on the number of athletes available.
The coach is also expecting strong performances from senior Hunter Hansen in the 200 and 400 meters, as well as sprinter Thomas Harris. Junior hurdlers Sophie Peterson and Drew Grimshaw will be leading the hurdle events.
While many athletes train during the winter months for the spring season— whether it’s practicing starts and acceleration on the school’s indoor track or running miles outdoors in the cold—Stucki believes this helps motivate them.
“There are meets, and meets are fun. But the kids will have to train, whether they’re competing or not, if they want to succeed this spring,” he said.
He also mentioned several track ath -
letes are currently participating in other winter sports and will join the team Feb. 24 or when their seasons wrap up.
This spring presents a challenge for the Huskies, though. The school’s six-lane track is under construction as it is being expanded to an eight-lane Husky green track. It’s expected to be finished after the season ends, Stucki explained.
the Early Bird Invitational March 14-15. On the weekend of March 28-29, the squad will split, with some athletes competing at the Juab Invitational and others at Utah Valley University’s meet.
In April, the Huskies will compete at the Taylorsville Invitational April 5, West Jordan’s meet April 12, and at the Davis and Air Show invitationals April 19. Some athletes will participate in the Tiger Trials April 26. The JV region meet is set for April 30.
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For sprinters, hurdlers and jumpers, this means they will be bused after school to share Jordan High’s track and field facilities. Stucki said distance runners will continue to run their regular routes around Hillcrest, and throwers will likely practice at the Huskies’ throwing field, which is shared with the soccer teams.
The Huskies won’t have a meet at their stadium; however they may host meets at the opposing schools’ facilities.
Dual meets are scheduled against Park City, Stansbury, Tooele and Murray; the team also will attend several invitationals, sometimes splitting athletes between different events.
Martin is already preparing to travel to the Snow Canyon Invitational March 7-8 and will be joined with teammates at
Before regionals May 7-8 and the state competition May 16-17, the Huskies will compete in the Sentinel Twilight Invitational May 2.
Once the track is complete, Stucki plans to host an invitational relay race in March 2026.
“It will include the 4x100, 4x200, 4x400, 4x800 and 4x1600 relays, along with sprint and distance medleys,” he said.
The event also will feature field event relays and will be sanctioned to meet track state qualifying standards.
“It’s something we’ve wanted to do for years,” Stucki said. “We’ll invite as many schools as want to participate.” l
Hillcrest High hosts one of the last meets on their track in mid-April 2024; this year, the Huskies are displaced as construction continues on a new eight-lane track. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
MIDVALE CITY DIRECTORY
City Hall
801-567-7200
Finance/Utilities 801-567-7200
Court 801-567-7265
City Attorney’s O ce ......................... 801-567-7250
City Recorder/Human Resources ... 801-567-7228
Community Development ............... 801-567-7211
Public Works 801-567-7235
Ace Disposal/Recycling 801-363-9995
Midvale Historical Museum 801-567-7285
Midvale Senior Center 385-468-3350
SL County Animal Services 385-468-7387 Communications 801-567-7230
MIDVALE CITY ELECTED OFFICIALS
Mayor - Dustin Gettel
Email: dgettel@midvaleut.gov
CITY COUNCIL
District 1 - Bonnie Billings
Email: bbillings@midvaleut.gov
District 2 - Paul Glover
Email: pglover@midvaleut.gov
District 3 - Heidi Robinson
Email: Hrobinson@midvaleut.gov
District 4 - Bryant Brown
Email: bbrown@midvaleut.gov
District 5 - Denece Mikolash
Email: Dmikolash@midvaleut.gov
WHO TO CALL FOR…
Water Bills
801-567-7200
Ordering A New Trash Can 801-567-7202
Permits 801-567-7213
Court 801-567-7265
Paying For Tra c School 801-567-7202
Business Licensing 801-567-7214
Cemetery 801-567-7235
Planning and Zoning 801-567-7231
Code Enforcement .............................. 801-567-7208
Building inspections ........................... 801-567-7213
Graffiti 385-468-9769
PUBLIC SAFETY & EMERGENCY CONTACTS
EMERGENCY 911
UFA Fire/UPD Police
> Non-emergency .............................. 801-840-4000
Uni ed Police Department
> Midvale Precinct 385-468-9350
Public Works
In The Middle of Everything
City Hall – 7505 South Holden Street • Midvale, UT 84047
Mayor’s Message
801-567-7235
Rocky Mountain Power 877-508-5088
This month, I decided to try something a little di erent and let you, the residents of Midvale, ask me anything! From my day job to exciting future projects, I’m happy to share my thoughts on a variety of topics. I’ve always believed that open communication is key, and I’m thrilled to answer some of your questions directly. So, here’s a look at what’s on your mind and what’s coming up for our community!
A fan of The Sandlot asked: What is your day job?
I have served as a Medicaid policy analyst for the Utah Department of Health and Human Services since 2016. Since becoming Mayor, I have reduced my hours at DHHS to dedicate more time to the important work we’re accomplishing in Midvale. Outside of my public service, I also referee the adult county league and Junior Jazz basketball. On Monday and Tuesday nights, you can often nd me o ciating men’s league games at Copperview.
Johnny asked: What are the plans to improve parking on Main Street?
By Mayor Dustin Gettel
Ask Me Anything: Your Questions, My Answers
with no sidewalk for about 800 feet. While I don’t have an exact timeline for when we’ll improve the connection and access points, it’s now a priority, especially after you brought it to our attention. Sometimes, all it takes is reaching out to your local elected o cials to spark real change in your community.
With any large-scale revitalization project like Midvale Main, some growing pains are inevitable. Right now, parking and tra c are key concerns, and we’re actively working on solutions. We’ve already seen previously unused parking spaces ll up with new visitors, and to better accommodate the increasing demand, two new public parking garages are coming to North and South Main. These additions will make it even easier for people from across the county to enjoy all that Main Street has to o er!
Brandon asked: Are there plans for a sidewalk between the Jordan River Trail and Bingham Junction Blvd.?
I’m surprised I haven’t bumped into you on this part of the trail – I’m out here at least once a day! This section does end abruptly,
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
Jennifer asked: Do you have to work with a city manager to get things done? If so, are they elected?
Yes, Midvale has a City Manager who oversees the day-to-day operations of the city. As Mayor, I work closely with the City Manager and meet with him frequently. Together with the City Council, we collaborate on passing ordinances and making broader policy decisions that bene t our community. Although the City Manager is not elected, they are appointed by the mayor and must be con rmed by a majority vote of the City Council.
Many violators of this ordinance will claim that their pet is friendly, or less aggressive when on a leash. However, Salt Lake County Animal Services would like to emphasize that not everyone appreciates encountering a “friendly” o -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 o -leash in areas other than designated o -leash dog parks, you will receive a ticket and be subject to a ne.
PACK OUT THE POOP
It’s a legal requirement to clean up after your dog. Failure to do so may result in nes. 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.
Jeremy asked: What are your plans for Midvale’s Main Street? When I was rst elected to the City Council in 2017, revitalizing Main Street was one of my top priorities, and it quickly became a shared vision for all of us. We’ve made incredible progress since then, and today, Midvale is truly the talk of the state! As this redevelopment moves forward, I envision Midvale Main becoming a countywide hub for arts and cultural events, movies, live theater performances, and a diverse range of dining experiences. At the same time, it’s crucial that we preserve our small-town charm, continuing beloved traditions like our Halloween, Christmas, and car show events. By o ering exciting new opportunities for work and play on Midvale Main, we’re only expanding the limitless potential right here in our own backyard!
Time to Leash Up!
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 O cer? Call dispatch at 801840-4000.
In The Middle of Everything
Midvale’s Iconic eatre Gets a New Life and a New Name: e Pearl on Main
The Pearl on Main has been known by many other names:
• The Iris • The Burk Theater
• Gazebo • Main Street Cinema
• The Comedy Circuit • Midvale Main Street Theatre
But no matter the name, the theatre will always be the gem of Main Street Midvale.
The Iris opened in 1918 as a movie theater with 250 seats, showing movies like Little Miss Marker and Knight without Armor. In the 1940s, new owners renamed it “The Burk” and continued to show movies. It went through two more names as a movie theater: “Gazebo Theater” and “Main Street Cinema.”
In 1990, Bill Spinning converted the movie theater into a live comedy club called the “Comedy Circuit.” He renovated the bathrooms and green room with eclectic tiling that can still be seen today.
Tammy and Stephan Ross took over in 2010 and turned it into a performing arts center called “Midvale Main Street Theatre,” holding shows consistently until 2023.
Two and a half years ago, Peyton Wunderli and John Simianer took ownership of the building, relocating their o ce
down the road to the top oor of the theater. They could feel the growth of Main Street and wanted to be a part of the action. “We liked the direction it was going,” Wunderli said. “You could feel it happening. There’s potential here; it’s fun to be a part of something.”
They have since expanded the venue’s programming to include a diverse range of events, such as children’s dance recitals, hip-hop and jazz concerts, burlesque performances, heavy metal shows, Ska-loween, and album release parties. Additionally, the space is available for private rentals, hosting everything from wedding ceremonies to retirement and birthday celebrations.”
Inside and out, The Pearl on Main stands as the keystone of the street. Its new facade—a marquee and vertical sign with neon tube lighting (LEDs inside for color control and sustainability) and Edison bulbs—enhances its classic charm, while sparkling concrete in front and around the building adds a glamorous touch.
A theater is a vital part of restoring a main street. Nate Rockwood, Assistant City Manager, came to Midvale for the sole purpose of revitalizing Midvale’s Main. He was previously employed in Park City in Redevelopment. In that position, he spent a lot of time studying main streets across the country. He saw Midvale’s Main Street and thought, “Man, someday, somebody is going to come help them gure out how to make that work. It was such a rough, uncut gem that needed the right polish.” He has honored his commitment, and the restoration, though gradual, is steadily gaining momentum.
“As we’re developing our main street, we want di erent types of businesses that attract di erent types of people at different times of day,” Rockwood explained. “The Pearl is huge, activating it with movie nights and bands playing there. It has a historic look, and we want not only to have activities on the street but a stimulating experience. The Pearl is the perfect example of that – We can amplify it and make it more visually prominent on the street.”
Simianer and Wunderli are all in when it comes to community outreach and expansion. Simianer emphasized that “We didn’t want to limit or keep any cultures out. That has been a big focus: creating a safe space for marginalized groups. LGBTQ+, a lot of our burlesque shows, pride shows; there are a lot of communities that won’t allow death metal or hardcore shows. Those don’t really have a place to perform. We’ve actively embraced those communities.”
Wunderli added, “They’ve embraced us too.”
In their rst year of operating the theatre, programming was slow and sporadic. Today, energy is growing, and word of mouth is spreading. There’s almost always something happening every weekend. The goal is to be active at least ve days a week, o ering every kind of show imaginable.
The rehabilitation and facelift of the Pearl on Main are crucial to the revitalization of Main Street, but the progress is not yet self-sustaining and requires ongoing support and attention. With new lighting, refurbished buildings, and the continued growth of local businesses, each small step brings us closer to creating a vibrant, welcoming, and dynamic hub for our community.
Call for Artists: Midvale Main Art House Studio Opportunity
The Midvale City Redevelopment Agency (RDA) is excited to invite passionate and innovative artists to apply for a unique studio opportunity at the Midvale Main Art House! This opportunity allows artists of all disciplines to develop their creative practice in a supportive, community-focused environment while contributing to Midvale’s vibrant cultural scene.
About the Midvale Main Art House
The Midvale Main Art House provides dedicated space for artists to create, collaborate, and engage with the community. The selected artists will have access to a studio space where they can work on their craft and collaborate with other local artists and residents. Whether you are a painter, sculptor, photographer, writer, or multimedia artist, this space o ers an ideal setting for creative growth and artistic exploration.
What Artists Receive:
• A designated creative workspace at the Midvale Main Art House.
• Opportunities to exhibit artwork, host workshops, or engage with the community through projects.
• Collaboration with fellow artists and access to local resources.
Who Should Apply?
We welcome applications from artists of all backgrounds, experience levels, and disciplines who are excited to engage with the Midvale community and make meaningful contributions through their art. This opportunity is perfect for those seeking a dynamic space to grow their practice while connecting with other creatives.
How to Apply:
Interested artists can submit their applications online through the Engage Midvale website at engagemidvale.com/arthouse. Applications are open until lled. Two studio spots are available, so don’t miss your chance to be part of Midvale’s growing arts community!
For more information, visit: engagemidvale.com/art-house or contact RDA@midvaleut.gov.
MARCH 2025 CITY NEWSLETTER
MIDVALE. UTAH. GOV
Midvale-Area Students Advance to Regional Science Fair
What happens to plants in microgravity? What’s the formula for the perfect boiled egg? How is industrial activity a ecting the CO2 levels in Salt Lake County? These are some of the hypotheses tested by the brilliant young scientists who competed in the 2025 Canyons District Science Fair. Out of hundreds of experiments, 17 students from Midvalley Elementary, Midvale Middle and Hillcrest High schools were awarded top honors and a chance to hypothesize their way to the next level — the regional University of Utah Science & Engineering Fair (USEF). USEF is the highest honor for elementary students in the state. Middle school and high school students who do well at regionals may have a chance to compete at national and international competitions.
Midvalley Elementary
• Roger Di rient: “How Safe is Your Drinking Water?”
• Andrea Maciel, Helena Caceres, Monroe Ropelato: “Rainwater Runo and Groundwater”
• Marley Jo ee: “The E ect of Hydrogen Facemasks on Skin Hydration”
Midvale Middle School
• Anushka Rajeev: “Detecting AI Using Computer Programming”
Hillcrest High School
• Ansh Devlekar: “Deliver It Right 2.0”
• Narayani Shankar: “Using Virtual Reality and Neural Networks to Solve Neck Mobility Issues”
• Lavanya Mohnani: “Interdisciplinary Hyperparameter Optimization”
• Navin Karthik, Srinath Ramakrishnan, Srivatsav Sura: “KOS (Biomechanical Knee Orthotic System”
• Sai Akshith Challagolla, Sai Ananya Challagolla: “Analyzing the Implication of Variable Speed Limit Systems on Phantom Tra c Congestion”
• Wenray Zhang: “Predicting Lung Adenocarcinoma using Gene Expression and Arti cial Intelligence Techniques”
• Ishanth Sooram: “Optical Pattern Recognition for Cataract Detection”
• Samhith Vajjala: “Clean Tides”
Unified hoops: Murray and Hillcrest teams shine at halftime scrimmages
Students with and without disabilities come together in a heartwarming display of teamwork and support during exciting halftime games of Hillcrest High at Murray High.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
The loudest cheers weren’t necessarily for the hard-fought rebounds during the Murray High versus Hillcrest High girls basketball game nor for the one-possession game during the second half of the boys basketball game, but for the unified basketball scrimmages that took place at the halftimes.
While Murray emerged victorious in both games, there was excitement and spirited support for the Murray and Hillcrest unified basketball teams, who showcased their skills during the breaks.
Unified basketball teams mix students with and without intellectual disabilities on the same squad, based on the belief that practicing and playing together fosters friendship and understanding, said Boston Iacobazzi, Special Olympics Utah college-growth coordinator for unified champion schools, who added the program’s popularity has soared in recent years; there
are more than 200 high school coed unified basketball teams.
Dean Domiguez, a coach for Murray’s unified team, said the scrimmages offered a unique game-like experience.
“It’s hard to duplicate this big crowd cheering in an ordinary practice, so it’s an opportunity for the players to understand the crowd is into it and supporting them,” he said. “This experience builds a positive environment, and it helps to give more exposure to people who are unfamiliar with what unified is and see the opportunity to participate or support the unified teams.”
Murray’s unified team member Vale Condori can score, but he prefers dribbling and passing.
“My favorite part is playing to win,” he said. “I like playing with my friends, and I love when my family and teachers cheer for me. It makes me happy.”
Senior Hailey Farmer plays alongside Condori and other unified teammates.
“I’ve made so many great friends I wouldn’t have made if it wasn’t for unified sports,” she said. “We practice once per week and get to spend our day together at tournaments, playing and cheering on everybody. It’s a warm and welcoming community, and I’ve learned patience and to make the most out of what I’m doing.”
Domiguez said he’s seen improve -
ment with his team.
“A highlight for me is just watching them develop and see them have success. You see the players who start with a certain skill at a certain level and through practice, they’re getting better,” he said. “Another highlight is seeing the happiness when the players interact with them. They’re just excited to see each other. Unified sports is another way to integrate these kids into society.”
Hillcrest High sophomore Yadi Rodriguez is enthusiastic about his unified team.
“My team is my favorite; Kevin Durant and the Golden State Warriors is my second favorite,” he said. “My team is skilled and we want to win the championships. We’re good friends too.”
He said while he has fun scoring baskets, he likes to pass the ball to his teammates.
“I love cheering when they score, just like they do for me,” he said.
Hillcrest junior Khloë Buchanan, who pulled on a jersey over her cheerleading uniform to play in the scrimmage, has been a peer tutor and has played unified sports for three years.
“I just fell in love with it,” she said. “Unified brings the whole school together. It’s both competitive and fun. Everyone supports each other, and we make sure everyone gets a chance to dribble or score. Everybody cheers for everyone, and we
celebrate everyone’s basket. It’s awesome to see the fans here supporting the unified teams.”
Hillcrest’s coach Rebecca Remy was proud of her teams. It was a rematch of last year’s halftime scrimmages.
“They did awesome; their smiles are worth all the hard work,” she said. “We want to make it a tradition, even though we’re not in the same region next year. It’s cool to give the kids opportunities to play in front of so many fans.”
Murray Athletic Director Brady Smith sees the value of the scrimmage.
“It gives both teams a platform with lots of support, and it allows them to showcase their incredible talent,” he said. “At Murray, we’re fostering an inclusive environment across all of our basketball programs. Unified basketball brings inclusion and positive energy, giving every student a chance to perform. It also allows the entire community—students, parents and others—a chance to witness the magic that happens when students with and without disabilities play together.”
Both schools’ team played at the tournament Feb. 10 hosted by Canyons School District. Murray High was slated to host a tournament Feb. 20. Both Murray High and Hillcrest High are scheduled to play in the regional tournament the week of March 10. State unified basketball is set for March 26 at the Delta Center. l
Hillcrest takes the lane for a shot during the unified basketball scrimmage at Murray High. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
SECTION
Kelly Bush leads Kearns through cityhood and community growth
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
From an Army air base during WWII to one of Salt Lake County’s newest cities, Kearns has a history of pride, diversity and community. Kearns Mayor Kelly Bush has led the charge in getting respect and recognition for the nearly 38,000 residents who call Kearns home.
It’s no easy task to build a government entity from scratch, but that’s exactly what Bush has done over the last few years, taking Kearns from a metro township in 2015 to a city in May 2024. She served in several leadership roles in the community before being appointed mayor in 2018.
“We were coming out of a time when nobody had voices. A lot of these communities had been neglected,” Bush said. “Our roads were run down, we had poor lighting. People were pretty frustrated that a lot of things were not happening. They didn’t feel like they had a voice.”
The elected officials in Kearns, and other unincorporated areas in Salt Lake County, believed they would be the voice for their residents to County officials. It was only after the first meeting with the County that leaders in those areas learned they were supposed to create their own legislative bodies.
“Honestly, I think at the time that not one person in the County expected this, for any of us to come as far as we had,” she said. “We were never set up to succeed and, to be honest, I never thought we would…We were relentless fighters and dreamers and knew what these communities wanted and what we needed. We were going to succeed and we built a government from the ground up.”
For years, cities surrounding Kearns had slowly eroded the area’s tax base. West Valley City, West Jordan and Taylorsville had cherry-picked commercial areas to incorporate, leaving Kearns with more than 37,000 residents and a limited tax base.
Discussions were held about being absorbed into one of the surrounding cities, but no city wanted to take on the additional expense of nearly 38,000 residents. Bush and her team had to make it work. By applying for federal monies and grants, Bush was able to secure millions of dollars for improvements in the city, including a recent road project that overhauled 6200 South.
“I would hope the one thing that I’ve done that would make the most difference is giving these people a voice,” she said. “They can get mad or they can love it but they should expect honesty from whoever represents them.”
Bush grew up in Millcreek, graduating from Skyline High School. She moved to Kearns after she got married to raise her family. She rejects the perception that Kearns is a dangerous city, saying it’s no more dangerous than any other city in the Salt Lake Valley.
She feels privileged to represent such a diverse community that includes Somalian, Vietnamese, Hispanic and Latino cultures, and many others.
“My kids had so many different types of experiences,” she said. “They experienced all the different cultures their friends had and there were so many different cultures. They got to go to different parties. They got to go to different churches. They got to go over and eat the different foods and they were always invited to all these super cool celebrations. It was so much fun because we made so many different types of friends.
That was not something I experienced on the east side.”
Kearns City Councilmember Crystal Butterfield has worked with Bush since 2020. Butterfield credits the mayor with getting the Oquirrh Shadows Unified Fire Authority Fire Station No. 107 reopened, improving roads and lighting conditions, staying on top of legislation that affects Kearns and keeping the city afloat through numerous grant opportunities.
“She has been instrumental in getting the things that we need and working behind the scenes with a lot of stuff I don’t even see,” Butterfield said. “She has been instrumental in making sure that we get grants and funding so we have extra resources. I’m just amazed at how many grants she can pull in.”
Bush is not running for re-election
this year but hopes to be hired as the Kearns city manager in 2026. She is proud to represent a diverse community with a small-town feel and to dedicate her time to connecting to residents who feel like family to her.
When the locally-owned La Placita Market burned down in January, the Kearns community rallied to support one of their own. Bush said that’s just the way things are done in the city.
“Our community will celebrate with each other and mourn with each other,” she said. “They stick together. They are there for each other no matter what and you better never mess with them. They are K-Town all the way.”
Mayor Bush will not run for reelection but hopes to work as the Kearns city manager in 2026
Kelly Bush spends time with firefighters from the United Fire Authority. As the mayor of Kearns, Bush worked to reopen the Oquirrh Shadows Fire Station #107 on 5600 West. (Photo courtesy of Kelly Bush)
Artist and heart attack survivor helps raise awareness of heart disease in women
By Jolene Croasmun | j.croasmun@mycityjournals.com
Go Red for Women Day was kicked off at Intermountain Medical Center with cardiologists bringing awareness to women’s No. 1 killer which is heart disease and an unveiling of the artwork from a female heart attack survivor.
February was heart health month and the first Friday of the month was Go Red for Women Day. Intermountain Health held an event and unveiled a heart attack survivor’s artwork to raise awareness about heart disease in women which claims the lives of more women annually than all cancers combined.
Dr. Amanda Donohue, a cardiologist with Intermountain Health said, “We partnered with the American Heart Association to get the word out about Go Red for Women Day. Our main goal is to create awareness around the cardiovascular risk that all women face. One in three women will pass away from a cardiovascular complication this year.”
Donohue talked about modifiable risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Go Red for Women Day is being used to “shed some light on the lesser known ones like autoimmune disorders, chronic kidney disease, gestational disorders of pregnancy and long-term use of hormone replacement therapy,” Donohue said.
“We want to empower women to take charge of their cardiovascular health. It is important at any age and any stage in life,” added Donohue.
Kimberleigh Collins-Peynaud is an artist and heart attack survivor and her artwork was on display at Intermountain Medical Center. She found comfort and healing through painting after her heart attack and hopes it will help others.
“I had a heart attack in November of 2023. A widowmaker heart attack and that means the left interior descending artery was 90% blocked,” Collins-Peynaud said. “The American Heart Association says that only 12% of widowmaker heart attack survivors survive outside of the hospital.”
Collins-Peynaud was 44, in good health and exercised regularly when she had her heart attack. Her family did have some history of heart disease. “When you feel healthy and relatively young and haven’t been warned of any risks, it just comes out of nowhere. I was walking around with a blocked artery and didn’t even know it.”
“I woke up on Saturday morning, went up for breakfast and my left arm started hurting to the bone and felt like there was pain radiating out of it. I tried to massage it like it was a cramp but that did nothing. That’s when I started thinking, ‘oh this is unfamiliar, this is weird’ and I told my husband I needed
Heart attack survivor Kimberleigh Collins-Peynaud holds a stent that is similar to the one that was placed in her artery after her heart attack. (Jolene Croasmun/City Journals)
to go lay down on the bed and as soon as I
This painting is a combination of the images of Kimberleigh Collins-Peynaud’s blocked arteries and her image in her mind of her heart attack. It is titled “My Widowmaker.” (Jolene Croasmun/City Journals)
did that my whole back felt exactly like the left arm,” Collins-Peynaud said.
“The final symptom felt like someone standing on my sternum and that lasted about 15 minutes and I Googled the symptoms, and I thought there is no way that I am having a heart attack and it appeared on my screen that those are typical symptoms of a heart attack. But I decided that if it happens again I will call the doctor,” Collins-Peynaud added.
Collins-Peynaud tried yoga but things
“Still Healing” is one of three paintings in a series that artist Kimberleigh Collins-Peynaud painted after her heart attack that has helped her process and understand the changes going on inside of her body. (Jolene Croasmun/City Journals)
did not improve and by 5 p.m. that day she decided to go to Instacare. “They took an EKG and immediately sent me to the hospital by ambulance," Collins-Peynaud said. “I was scared.”
For Collins-Peynaud art helped her heal. “I used art to get better. I needed a way to process the shock of what happened to deal with death and why I was lucky to survive.”
Speaking about her gouache painting called “Why,” Collins-Peynaud explained, “The 12% for example is just a number but I needed to see what that looks like. What does 12% of the population surviving look like?” Only 12% of widowmaker heart attack victims survive.
“There is one drawing which is a pencil drawing of the three symptoms. First my left arm, then my whole back, then the pain on my sternum. I felt that would be very helpful to add to the series because it is a way to connect to other women and people to show that here are three images of what it felt like. So if you feel like this you’ll know to go act faster than I did. Or if a friend or family member says, ‘I have this pain, and I don’t understand it’ hopefully it will get someone to react and say, ‘I saw this image, you should go get this checked out,’” Collins-Peynaud said.
“My symptoms are typical of men’s symptoms. We are all different and they can vary. The more the public can see how different it can be the better it is,” said Collins-Peynaud.
“I created the series called ‘Heartwork’
and the prints are for sale through my website, www.heartwork-art.weebly.com. I will donate a portion of the proceeds to the foundation for the beginning of this women’s heart center,” Collins-Peynaud said. “I have been working with the team here at Intermountain to help get out the word of women’s heart health.”
Dr. Kent Meredith, a cardiologist with Intermountain Health spoke at the event. “We have learned that when women have a heart attack it is often completely different. It is very common in women to experience a totally different set of symptoms.”
“It is not a pain or pressure but it’s more like burning or discomfort. Some female patients will say, ‘I don’t feel well or I feel weak, tired or have an upset stomach.’ I have heard that 1,000 times in my 25 years of cardiology,” Meredith said and added that many patients think they have stomach flu.
“We consider any symptom between the nose and navel as being a potential heart attack symptom especially in women," Meredith added. “We encourage you to learn and share with the women in your life.”
Collins-Peynaud’s life was saved by the cardiologists at Intermountain Medical Center and she had a stent placed in her arteries. She now makes the most of each day. “Do something that makes you feel good for yourself. Do something useful,” Collins-Peynaud said. She hopes that her artwork will help others recognize the symptoms of a heart attack and possibly save a life.
Alta high senior conquers 50-miler, proving ‘you can do hard things’
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Eighteen-year-old Ruby Lewis inspires others while proving to herself there are no limits.
In late January, 18-year-old Ruby Lewis embarked on a 50-mile race through the snow-dusted La Sal Mountains, taking in stunning views of Arches National Park and running past ancient dinosaur tracks embedded in red rock.
After a grueling journey, Lewis crossed the finish line of the Arches Ultra in 11:35:46, securing third place in the under-20 age group. She was the youngest runner of 73 competitors.
“I was running the whole day,” Lewis said. “It was hard being out there and realizing, I still had miles to go. I was running by myself for a good chunk of it, so I had to find motivation to keep running. My goal was to get under 12 hours and be able to finish. I wasn’t sure I’d be able to do it – and once I did, it changed my perspective on what I can do. It’s an amazing feeling knowing I accomplished it.”
The Alta High varsity cross country and track runner said she found motivation from her dad, a seasoned long-distance runner who supported her at four aid stations along the way.
Additionally, she found inspiration in a bracelet she wore throughout the race. The bracelet, made with teammates, carried the message “PTW,” which stands for “Prove Them Wrong.”
“We created the PTW club to remind ourselves we’re capable of doing hard things, and to prove to anyone who doubts us—even ourselves sometimes—wrong. It’s a way to unite and support each other, whether we’re running or facing challenges in life,” Lewis explained.
The PTW group operates informally, with members often joining each other for runs or supporting one another’s workouts on Strava.
“We love making comments on each other’s runs, offering encouragement and helping each other stay positive,” she said. “It’s all about creating a supportive and unified community. We want to spread positivity and make a difference.”
Ruby drew from this motivation during her 50-mile race.
Starting the race at 6:30 a.m. in 19-degree weather, she wore a headlamp and carried a backpack filled with snacks, salts and energy bars. The temperature eventually climbed to the mid-40s before dipping again. As the race wore on and the field of runners began to thin out, there were times when she wanted to stop and walk, but she pushed herself forward, knowing her teammates were cheering her on from afar.
“Sometimes you can be your worst
enemy. So, if you can get past your own self-doubt, then you can do a lot more,” she said. “You have to trust yourself and believe you can accomplish hard things. I think it showed to my teammates that, they, too, can achieve what they set their minds to—not just in running, but in life.”
Lewis began preparing for the race after the Alta High Hawks finished in the top 20 at the state cross country meet. She followed a rigorous training schedule, created with the help of her father.
“Dedication is key. I put in long training runs. Training three months for one race seems like a lot, but if I hadn’t done that, I wouldn’t have been able to finish. It taught me you need to put in the effort for the outcome and in the end, it’s worth it,” she said.
Additionally, she gradually built up her long distance racing endurance, completing a half-marathon in October 2023 and running a 50K in January 2024, where she finished fifth in the under-20 age group.
The distance runner also is captain of Alta High’s 120-member mountain biking club.
“Mountain biking is a hard sport, too. You need to put in the work. So again, you need to prove to yourself you have the strength to do it,” she said.
In addition to her athletic accomplishments, Lewis is actively involved in her community. As a member of the National Honor Society, she and her teammates have volunteered with programs such as Sub for Santa and helped prepare meals for The Road Home shelter.
“We’re all about working hard and showing kindness,” she said. “My dream job is to become an international social worker. I want to help as many people as I can.”
A senior with a 4.0 GPA, Lewis is considering Southern Utah University for her college education, and she still has shortand long-term athletic goals.
This spring, before graduation, she wants to shave off a few seconds on both her 800-meter and mile track times. Looking ahead, she may run the Arches Ultra again before racing the Wasatch 100.
“My experiences have taught me challenges are worth facing, and I want others to feel that same sense of achievement and pride in themselves,” she said. “My dad inspired me to pursue longer distance races. They’re tough, but having that feeling of accomplishment when they’re over, makes it worth the hard work.”
Alta High’s 18-year-old Ruby Lewis smiles before proving to herself that she could race the Arches Ultra 50-miler in January. (Photo courtesy of Ruby Lewis)
Alta High mountain bike club captain Ruby Lewis, with her PTW bracelet on her wrist, races at region. (Photo courtesy of Ruby Lewis)
Herriman’s female assistant city manager overcomes obstacles to make a difference
By Elisa Eames | e.eames@mycityjournals.com
A 17-year veteran of local government, assistant city manager Wendy Thomas understands the value of diligence and determination; reaching her current position wasn’t easy.
“[It has been] a lot of long hours and hard work. It was taking on extra responsibilities, making hard decisions and being accountable,” Thomas said.
Growing up in a small rural community along the Mississippi River in Arkansas, Thomas didn’t arrive in Utah until 1996. Intending to stay only for the summer, she decided to make the move permanent after meeting her husband, Kem. They have two adult children and a grand dog.
Thomas began her career with a love of learning—a passion she still enjoys— which is not surprising considering her impressive educational background. With two bachelor's degrees in economics and social science and two master’s degrees in gerontology and public administration, she has consistently pushed herself to earn distinction in a playing field generally dominated by men.
Faced with challenges from her first purposeful steps onto a career path, Thomas has refused to accept limitations for over 20 years.
“Early on in my career, it was balancing being a wife and mother and working more than 40 hours per week,” she said. “I was also attending graduate school during some of that time. It took a lot of perseverance and support from those around me to make sure the children were fed and where they needed to be so I could be present and focused.”
Though she loves her job, local government wasn’t her original goal when she began her studies as an undergraduate. However, fortuitous circumstances led her to where she is now.
“It was a lot of falling forward and seizing opportunities as they presented themselves,” she said. “One of my electives during my undergraduate studies was in the Gerontology Department, which led me to an interest in Aging Services Administration, which led to an MS in Gerontology, which led me to my first job in local government managing the Community Center and Senior Citizen Programs in South Jordan.” She spent nearly eight years working for the City of South Jordan.
Presenting an unprecedented challenge, the pandemic threw a wrench into everyone’s plans and daily operations, and it was no different for Herriman.
“The pandemic changed so much for the city. Day to day, we had to pivot our response depending on what was happening at the federal, state and county levels. It impacted every aspect of daily life,” Thomas said.
She and other city officials scrambled to adapt how they fulfilled responsibilities, met the needs of residents and communicated. “Public trust evaporated,” she said.
Thomas and other staff found creative ways to keep the city functioning, even hosting the first in-person pandemic event within Salt Lake County in July 2020. “[It was called] Xtreme Bulls, with a limited crowd and a lot of health regulations. It was amazing to be with people!” Thomas said.
Later in 2020, an unexpected management change thrust Thomas into the position of interim city manager overnight. She suddenly found herself responsible for all city operations, a huge undertaking she would tackle for the next eight months. “I am grateful for our amazing staff, who stepped up and helped me navigate through that time,” she said.
Though her stint as the city manager was instructive and helped shape how she approaches challenges today, she is grateful for many aspects of her current job. She particularly enjoys the community camaraderie and respect on display during city events.
“It is incredibly fulfilling to see the community come together at Fort Herriman Towne Days or to see people enjoying all the activities at the Herriman Howl,” she said. “I love the respect that is shown at our Memorial Day Ceremony and Wreaths Across America.”
Thomas has now worked for Herriman City for almost eight years and enjoys seeing the completion of city projects, including roads, parks or even water tanks.
“I love seeing people enjoying our trails and playing in our parks. I love seeing new businesses opening and meeting new residents,” she said.
Thomas—and the city in general— face daily challenges. Limited resources, budget constraints, regulatory considerations and legal issues—all while examining the impact on residents—make solving complex city problems difficult at best.
Providing unique perspectives gained through experiences as a woman, mother, student and leader, she continues to pursue the realization of the city council’s vision for Herriman.
This vision includes strengthening financial stability and increasing revenue, improving public trust and transparency,
encouraging community engagement, expanding trails for increased outdoor recreation and health and increasing transportation and service efficiency via technology.
She takes pride in her efforts to do what is best for the city, though, of course, she is always proud of her children first.
“In my career, I think I’ve been a good person who works hard, takes responsibility, and tries to do the right thing, even though that can come through difficult choices,” she said.
Though every city makes mistakes that can negatively impact residents,
Thomas is especially optimistic about Herriman’s future.
“Incredible people make up the Herriman City Staff and City Council,” she said. “They are people who truly care about this community and its long-term sustainability.”
To make a difference in local government, particularly for women, Thomas advises proactivity. “Believe in yourself and your abilities. Speak up, even when you are the only woman in the room. Trust your expertise. Embrace resilience—learn from mistakes and move forward,” she said. “And be kind.”
Wendy Thomas has worked hard for over two decades to better herself and her city.
Wendy Thomas greets residents at a city event at Butterfield Park in 2019. (Courtesy Herriman City)
On a brisk day in November 2022, Wendy Thomas participates in the ribbon-cutting for the Juniper Canyon East Trailhead. (Courtesy Herriman City)
Midvale to use Ranked Choice Voting for 2025 elections
Mayor and two council positions are up for election this year, this marks the third time the city will utilize the nontraditional voting method after 2021 and 2023.
By Travis Barton travis.b@thecityjournals.com
Midvale’s voting method in 2025 will embrace the nontraditional. The City Council unanimously approved the use of ranked choice voting in February, passing a resolution signaling to the county what equipment will be necessary for this year’s election.
Ranked choice voting works like this: instead of choosing one candidate as is currently done, you would instead rank them in first place, second place, and so on. If no candidate reaches 51%, a clear majority, then the candidate with the least votes is eliminated. Those who voted for the eliminated candidate would then see their votes assigned to their second choice. This continues until one someone has the majority.
“I like it because then we get to 50%,” Councilmember Bryant Brown said during a January council meeting, noting one race where he saw a Midvale mayoral election winner with 38% of the vote.
“Which is a terrible way to come to the conclusion of a race cause at that point, third place had 33%,” he said.
The rest of the council was unanimously in favor. Councilmember Paul Glover said he prefers the traditional election more.
“I’m not as worried about (ranked choice voting) as much as I was, I still think a lot of older people have a hard time with it,” he said.
Officials said the cost will be determined by how many cities participate. In 2023, it cost the city $26,000 with only district seats up for grabs, meaning lower amounts of ballots. This year will see District 4, 5 and the mayor seat on the ballot, with the mayor being voted on by the entire city, the price could increase.
Proponents of the method point to three primary benefits of the
ranked choice system. First, a more informed resident as voters would need to be familiar with all candidates. Second, more civil campaigns since candidates would want to appeal to as many voters as possible.
Third, the city would need to run only one election, jettisoning the primary election held in June. Under the RCV format, candidate declaration dates would be Aug. 12-19.
The three seats up for election this year feature two just recently appointed members. Dustin Gettel, who currently holds the mayoral seat after being appointed in December, said he planned to run for mayor.
District 5’s Denece Mikolash was appointed in January to fill the position left by Gettel. She also intends to run for election and Bryant Brown, who has served in District 4 for two terms, would be up for reelection. l
How ranked choice voting would work:
1. Voter ranks candidates A, B and C for first, second and third place. Jane Doe ranks her votes in this order –C, A, B.
2. If no candidate reaches 51% then whoever is in third place would be eliminated. For example: candidate A is 40%, B is 35% and C is 25%, then candidate C would be eliminated.
3. Since Jane Doe’s candidate C was eliminated, her vote would then go to A, her second choice.
4. This process would occur until a candidate reaches a majority.
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The three elected positions up for grabs in 2025 will be determined by ranked choice voting. (City Journals)
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Hillcrest cheer squad earns All-American recognition and heads to nationals
Huskies hard work pays off with national distinctions under first-year coaches and sisters.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
The Hillcrest High cheer team has plenty to cheer for this season. Ten of its members were selected to represent USA Cheer as All-American cheerleaders—and the Huskies geared up for the USA Cheer Nationals Feb. 13-17 in Anaheim, California.
“We’ve really done awesome this year and they have improved so much from the start of the year,” said Annyka Scherschligt, who, alongside her sister Amelya, is coaching the squad for their first year.
Those chosen for the honor include head captains and seniors Belle KLC and Paige Henderson, song captain and senior Aspen McCarthy, senior Sage Williams, juniors Eva Adamson, Khloë Buchanan, Emily Leung, Alice Stephens and Riley Toleman and sophomore AshLee Kelly.
In addition to the All-American recognition, KLC was also selected as one of 24 4A cheerleaders to represent Hillcrest as an All-State cheerleader for the class of 2025.
On Feb. 14, 17 Husky cheerleaders performed their show routine at the USA Cheer competition, having qualified at the USA regional event Jan. 18.
“Every time this season, we increased the difficulty of their skills a little bit from one competition to the next and every time, they went out and hit the routine. We didn’t have any penalties, zero deductions all season,” Annyka Scherschligt said.
On Feb. 16, 11 Huskies competed in the song category.
“We’ve been practicing hard, getting those routines super clean and perfected, and mastering all the skills,” she said prior to the event. “We’ve given them the whole breakdown in the itinerary and what will be going on.”
That schedule also includes a chance to see a collegiate competition, team bonding activities and a visit to Disneyland.
Recently, the team held a Sweethearts dance as a fundraiser for the cheer program, and they have participated in a variety of bonding activities including distributing candy at the school’s trunk-or-treat event and having a winter team dinner at The Old Spaghetti Factory. They are also planned a showcase for Feb. 25, asking attendees to bring canned goods for Hillcrest High’s food pantry.
Throughout their competition season, Hillcrest placed third place in fight song, fourth place in sideline chant and show at the Winter Classic competition in December. At the division competition Jan. 10, Annyka Scherschligt said the team performed the routines flawlessly.
They also earned third place in the show category at the USA region competition in mid-January.
Amelya Scherschligt hopes their hard work will inspire some seniors to consider cheering in college.
“I feel some of the team could cheer in college,” she said. “I did it and it was so fun. When we started, many of them were shy and we had to teach a lot of new skills to the team since some had never cheered before. But now, they’ve improved so much, and they’re confident in their abilities and comfortable with each other. They’re having fun performing in front of the student section.”
Her sister said the team already is seeing the rewards of their hard work.
“We love the team, and we just know they’ll continue to get better,” Annyka Scherschligt said. “It’s been great getting to know the girls not just as a cheerleader, but as individu-
als. We’re building a strong connection with them, and it’s rewarding to know we’re having a positive impact on their
lives. Our goal is to be someone they can look up to and trust while helping them create fun memories.” l
A Hillcrest High cheerleader perform a back tuck during a routine on senior night at the basketball game versus Cottonwood High. (Photo courtesy of Kealii Smith/SportsPic)
Hillcrest High cheer circles up during the Jan. 11 regional competition. (Amelya Scherschligt/Hillcrest High)
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.
