MIDVALE USHERS IN NEW LEADERSHIP AS DUSTIN GETTEL IS SWORN IN AS MAYOR
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Midvale’s new mayor, Dustin Gettel, grew up in a small town in Pennsylvania and went to college near Philadelphia. In 2015, he moved to Utah and has lived in Midvale for 10 years this spring. He never dreamed of moving anywhere else.
“They say once you hit 10 years in Utah, you’re a lifer,” Gettel said. “Moving here from 1,900 miles away, Midvale was incredibly convenient for everything. The area of Midvale where I live, near Top Golf and the Overstock building, seemed like it had the best of everything. It just has this vibrant kind of small town feel yet up-andcoming urban area as well.”
Gettel, who has represented District 5 on the Midvale City Council, was appointed to serve as the city’s mayor after the council held a special meeting on Dec. 10 to select a new mayor for the city. The former mayor, Marcus Stevenson, resigned from the position in November, following allegations of an affair with a subordinate.
Eleven candidates submitted applications and letters of interest for the mayoral position including Gettel and Paul Glover, both current city councilmembers. When no candidate secured a three-vote majority, Gettel won the position based on a coin flip.
First elected to the city council in 2017, Gettel got involved with the community as a way to create safer pedestrian access in more urban areas of Midvale. Since then, he’s worked on several initiatives including creating a paid parental and caregiver leave program for city employees, citywide curbside glass recycling, keeping property tax stable and revitalizing Midvale’s Main Street.
“For me, personally, and for the council in general, revitalizing Main Street is our goal and now we’re starting to see the actual results of the work that we put in
to attract businesses and have people take a chance on Midvale Main Street,” Gettel said. “We saw the potential. Everyone knew what Main Street used to be and we wanted to restore that to its former glory. We’re starting to see the first of our labor coming to fruition.”
Gettel supports the Midvale Arts District on Main Street that features more than 40 murals and a thriving tattoo industry. Recently, new businesses have added to the area including
The Bambino pizzeria and Cactus & Tropicals, a locally-owned business providing horticultural services.
Along with his city council duties, Gettel volunteers on the Harvest Days Committee, the Jordan River Commission, the Association of Municipal Governments and works as the chair of the Animal Services Advisory Board.
He also wants to reinstate the Midvale Community Council, an organization he volunteered with when he first moved to the city. During COVID, the community council program went on a temporary hiatus.
“We had a pretty vibrant, well-attended community council,” Gettel said, “and we’ve been talking about how to reorganize and re-energize our community council. I want to take that project on as mayor and see what we can do about actually getting that process in place and start a new Midvale Community Council.”
Gettel is an avid outdoor enthusiast who plans to walk the entire Jordan River Trail over the course of the next year. He has two dogs, a mini Schnauzer and a Shih Tzu/mini poodle rescue dog.
While Gettel will complete Stevenson’s mayoral term that ends on Jan. 5, 2026, he plans on running for election this fall to continue his service as Midvale’s mayor while his vacant council seat will
be filled at the beginning of the 2025 year. He said the circumstances surrounding his appointment have been difficult but he’s ready to get started.
“It was a rough time for Midvale,” he said. “It was a rough time for city staff, and it was a rough time for us councilmembers. It was not a place that any of us wanted to be in. I just want people to know that our city is continuing to move forward. We went through this process that no one wanted to go through, but it’s done now. We’ve turned the page, and we’re moving forward.” l
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Dustin Gettel stepped down from his position on the Midvale City Council after he was appointed to serve as the new city mayor. (Photo courtesy of Midvale City)
Young chef battles for sweet victory in Kids Baking Championship
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
The heat is on for 11-year-old Arielle Yang from Sandy. She was chosen to participate in Food Network’s new season of Kids Baking Championship where young bakers face animal-inspired challenges as they compete for a sweet prize package that includes the title of Kids Baking Champion, $25,000 and a feature in Food Network Magazine.
Arielle is one of a dozen contestants from the U.S. and Canada who will use their creativity and baking skills to impress the judges and hosts, Duff Goldman and Kardea Brown. She said although the competition was awkward and intimidating at first, she soon jumped into the fun of the show.
“My favorite part was probably the friends I made,” Arielle said. “We had really good friendships. I think we became friends pretty quickly, because we already had something that we could bond over: baking.”
Arielle attends Waterford School and has been interested in baking for several years. She liked watching her mom, Grace
Dong, when she made birthday cakes and cupcakes. That inspired her to explore different parts of baking and decorating.
“When I was 7 or 8, I was watching some YouTube videos of people piping flowers, and I got really interested in it,” Arielle said. “So one day I wanted to try it and I did. Even though they weren’t the best, they were kind of floppy, I liked baking a lot and started baking more and more.”
Kids Baking Championship challenges the contestants to create animal-themed treats, featuring everything from sea creatures to jungle dwellers to farm animals. Chicken the parrot and a cockatoo named Teva make an entrance in the first show that kicks-off the 10-episode season.
The first test the kids faced was creating a tart with an animal texture like scales, feathers, fur or fins, plus they had to add an edible tail in a late-breaking twist. The final challenges include creating cookie animal houses with an edible water trough and baking zoo-inspired cakes.
“Kids Baking Championship is a celebration of the amazing things kids can do in the kitchen, not only with their baking and decorating skills but also in how they support each other even while competing,” said Betsy Ayala, head of content at Warner Bros. Discovery. “With animals as the inspiration the creations are adorable, and the kids are exceptional in the most heartwarming way.”
Arielle learned
several life lessons during the taping of the show that premieres on Monday, Jan. 6 on Food Network and streams on Max the following day.
“I think that my biggest lesson is that when things don’t go right, you need to find creative ways to fix it,” Arielle said. “When you’re working under pressure, you can make mistakes. When you make mistakes, you have to find a creative way to solve it and just not cry.”
Dong encouraged her daughter to submit an application to be on the show because she knew Arielle would be up to the challenge. She said she’s watched Arielle learn life skills that will help her in the future where she’d like to open her own bakery
selling cakes, eclairs and macarons.
“She’s always enjoyed baking,” Dong said. “For the last two or three years, she taught herself so much about baking and decorating. I was super impressed by what she’s made, especially for my birthday. I was really impressed by her ability to work under pressure. Even adults have problems working under pressure with a time limit.”
Arielle’s favorite animals are dogs and pandas, but she can’t say yet if she was able to incorporate those creatures into the baking competition. She hopes other kids will watch the show and be inspired to experiment with different types of baking and decorating.
Follow Arielle’s journey on Kids Baking Championship at Foodnetwork.com. l
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Sandy resident, 11-year-old Arielle Yang, competes on the upcoming season of Food Network’s Kids Baking Championships. The show premieres on Monday, Jan. 6. (Photo courtesy of Food Network)
Arielle Yang presents her creation to hosts Duff Goldman and Kardea Brown on Food Network’s Kids Baking Championship: Amazing Animals. (Photo courtesy of Food Network)
Salt
Newly elected Lewis aims to amplify youth voice on school board
Lake Community College political science student
Jackson Lewis is easily Canyons School District’s youngest board of education member in the District’s 15 year history. He may be the state’s youngest elected official ever.
At 19, he was elected to office. Two months later, in January, at age 20, he will be sworn in.
The last time Lewis was elected to office was as a second grader at Canyon Rim Academy in Millcreek, when his class was learning about government.
He has been in meeting after meeting since being elected. Recently, in a meeting with other school board members, state legislators and city officials, he learned about gang behavior in schools from local law enforcement officers.
“There's an issue with our schools now, specifically with THC (vaping) cartridges, and it’s what gangs are doing to recruit in schools along the Wasatch Front,” he said.
As a 2023 graduate, he isn’t far removed from walking into the high school bathroom, smelling weed.
“I’m grateful to be able to sit in on this meeting because I'm elected to serve a constituency, and I was sitting there brainstorming the entire time, ‘how are we going to work to make it better?’” he said. “I live right next to Union Park, so I see kids hanging out at the pavilion often with drugs; they should be in school.”
He realizes he’s more under a microscope as the youngster on the school board unlike Katie Dahle, who also was elected for the first time this term or re-elected member Holly Neibaur. He plans to use his fresh, firsthand experience as a recent student to address issues important to current students and educators.
“During my campaign, I talked about chronic absenteeism because I had firsthand issues with it so I'm bringing that perspective to the board, where we can address these issues,” he said.
It was during high school when he attended Skyline High that he had some family issues which impacted him.
“I struggled a lot with my mental health,” he said, adding it continued when he transferred to Hillcrest his senior year and where his sister now is a senior. “There was a period of my high school time, particularly senior year, where I was absent for a good chunk of it.”
Lewis said by “endlessly” talking to his Hillcrest counselor, Kimberly Walters, they found a way to get him motivated to return to school.
“I started the school day at 9 (a.m.) so I got the sleep I needed. Instead of starting the day in a lecture-based classroom or sitting there doing a worksheet, I started in weight training. As a teenage male, I love going to the gym, and that brought me into the school building; it got me to graduate,” he said.
Now, Lewis wants the school board to focus on the issue.
“We need to meet students where they are, find what makes students excited to go to school, and focus on getting kids to school. A lot of students have a big issue with getting out of bed and going to school every day. It's a post-COVID world. It's not just here; it’s a nationwide issue. We need to find a way to make sure students want to be in school and it will pull a lot of kids out of chronic absenteeism,” he said.
It won’t happen with one big “swoosh,” said former Alta High history and government teacher Rique Ochoa, who has analyzed campaigns and elections with his students.
“It’s a good thing he's being more specific, but does he have a plan to solve chronic absenteeism?” Ochoa said.
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
“He's going to have to institute small solutions initially to get people on board. Once he gets that and it’s moderately successful, he needs to look at ‘How will we expand this?’
He can’t expect change to be immediate; it’s going to be small, incremental steps, and then get a broader picture later. At 19, you come in with a lot of inexperience and a lot of great ideas, but practicality also has to come into play.”
As a teenager who prefers riding a scooter to driving, Lewis advocates for the best routes for students and pedestrians, wanting to move the Safe Walking Routes away from busy arterial roads into neighborhood streets with lower speed limits. He wants students to be able to ride UTA transit for free and supports UDOT’s proposed bike freeway.
“I want to create a partnership between the District, Salt Lake County, local city governments and the state department of transportation so when new infrastructure projects go up in this area…we design new pedestrian pathways…in a way students also can use them. I want this to be a conversation over my upcoming term,” he said.
Lewis became curious about the school board during a college and career readiness day in Karla Moosman’s English language arts class. He remembers learning about education bills passed in the legislature and realizing how complicated it was for the school board to put some in place because “they don’t get the resources they need from the state.”
At that point, he looked up who his board member was and the 18 years old age requirement, which then he hadn’t reached. Later in the year, he worked for the Office of Legislative Research and General Counsel when the local dem-
ocratic party offered their support for him to run.
“I was running for my community. I popped into the race expecting to lose to (then incumbent) Mont (Millerberg). He was an extremely important and major community figure,” Lewis said.
Lewis will serve in District 1, where Millerberg, a longtime member and board vice president, served until his unexpected death in February 2024. Lewis beat out Millerberg’s wife, Kris, who served in the seat following her husband, and ran as a write-in candidate. He also beat candidate Rainer Lilbook.
Lewis thinks he resonated with voters partially because of his age.
“A lot of the conversations I had were about my age. The perspective I bring to the board is of a former Hillcrest High School student and a lifelong resident of Midvale. I offered a perspective that has direct impact over thousands of very young people. Quite a few times I was told by voters, ‘a 19 year old on a school board makes perfect sense.’ People are just ready for new, young perspective,” he said.
Ochoa believes Lewis won for three reasons.
“First of all, many people don’t know school board elections. It’s like when you get your ballot and see all the judges to retain or not. Some people don’t know anything about them and start alternating yes and no because they don’t know,” he said. “The same thing may be true with school board members’ elections. Many people don’t know the candidates. For those who do, I think he may have resonated because he gave specifics on his campaign. He's going to make a ripple right from the start, because he's talking about specific problems. Others, who just talk generically, can take pretty much any action they want and say it supports teachers, or it supports education. Their campaigns deal with generalities, because who's going to say they're against supporting education, against the teachers, nobody is.”
Having Kris Millerberg as a write-in candidate also likely impacted the vote, and split the vote, he said.
In District 3, Dahle was elected to take the seat of longtime member and former board president Nancy Tingey, who is retiring. In District 7, Neibaur retained her seat on the board.
Canyons District Supt. Rick Robins said he welcomes the new board members and anticipates continued focus on students.
“I'm really excited for Jackson and for Kate, and I'm just so grateful to both of them for deciding to run for elected office,” he said. “The board has dynamics like a family as different people join. But our board has been great at assimilating and finding common ground and being able to stay focused on what's most important, students.”
That’s where Lewis is focused.
“My plan right now is to serve this full term; if Jackson Lewis, a year ago, got to look at the world now, he would not have expected anything that had happened this last year to happen,” he said. “I've always had a strong sense of what is right and wrong. I've always been into politics, I love policy. I want to leave the world a better place than when I was born, that's why I know politics is my calling; a great vessel for change is through politics. As a school board member, I have goals; I have plans. Obviously, compromise is not the enemy of progress, and I am not going to step on the District’s feet or my own feet for some purity test. That's not the politics. That's not the kind of person I am, but I do want to make a difference.” l
At age 20, Hillcrest High 2023 graduate Jackson Lewis will take the oath of office Jan. 7 and will become the youngest to ever serve on Canyons School’s Board of Education. (Photo courtesy of Jackson Lewis)
Our favorite Midvale photos of 2024
Former Hillcrest High basketball star Hal Hale still can swish a ball on his Midvale childhood home court. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Daisuke Okamoto aka Okaina Image traveled from California to create “Into the Elk,” a mural for the Los Muros on Main: Midvale City Mural Festival. It can be found at Rick Service (7584 S. Main St.). (Courtesy Midvale City/Bryton Sampson)
Midvale Middle instructional coach Krista Edwards shared her peregrine falcon, Skye, with students to familiarize them with falconry which is in the class reading of Jean Craighead George’s “My Side of the Mountain.” (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Hillcrest High’s boys wrestler seen here in a meet against Cedar Valley High, finished 18th at state while the girls placed fifth, with two individuals repeating as state champions. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
HD, as it’s fondly called, was region 10 and 4A state champions. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
The Harvest Days parade featured chainsaws, skaters and dancers. (City Journals)
These knights in shining armor have picked Midvale City Park to host their armored combat practices and can be found on Saturdays swinging swords. (Annabelle Larsen/City Journals)
Hillcrest High senior Fabi Gonzalez celebrates winning the point in the No. 1 singles state championship. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Hillcrest High’s Luci Gonzalez runs to hug her older sister, Fabi, after they both win individual state tennis titles. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Preschool and elementary school students were amazed and excited by the variety of activities at Midvalley Elementary’s recent STEAM night. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
We are Midvale – Cultural Night, in its third year, featured more than 10 student performances at Midvale Middle School. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Students’ faces light up with America First, RSL and Royals’ gift of new shoes
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Bright
white tennis shoes with the traditional black Adidas stripes recently walked out of the America First stadium on the feet of more than 650 Midvale Elementary school children.
It was part of America First Credit Union’s Warm the Soles tradition to supply thousands of children in Utah and neighboring states with new shoes.
It’s the second time America First has partnered with Real Salt Lake and the Utah Royals to bring a morning-long experience to the students, complete with a tour of the stadium, locker rooms and pitch; meeting professional soccer players, Santa and Mrs. Claus and Leo, RSL’s mascot, and enjoying lunch together.
Last year, 340 pairs of shoes were given to Copperview Elementary students in a similar fashion. Both elementaries are Title I schools in Canyons School District.
Midvale Principal Carolee Mackay said 100% of the students receive free breakfast and lunch; 60% of the students come from low-income families.
“We have a lot of students who are experiencing homelessness; this makes such a huge difference for them to receive these shoes,” she said.
Mackay unveiled bit by bit to the students
over weeks about the field trip, starting with getting to tour the stadium and meeting players.
“They did not know they were getting shoes; that was a surprise when we got here,” she said. “Already, they were screaming and
jumping and falling all over each other, so excited that they were going to be able to come see the stadium. I’ve had kids every day thank me for letting them come on this field trip.”
America First Senior Vice President of Human Resources Kent Streuling said the excitement of the kids was felt by everyone involved.
“This is the best way to start Christmas season is to see the joy and the happiness on their faces,” he said. “Christmas brings out the best in people.”
But for Streuling as well as the players and others who were involved, it means more. It’s serving the community and giving of their time, resources and compassion, he said.
“There's always somebody who is less fortunate than you. If you look at it from that side and know you’re helping lift people by giving, it makes service rewarding. It makes your heart feel good,” he said.
RSL defender Philip Quinton agrees it’s a special opportunity to give to the students.
“To see the look on the kids’ faces during this, it’s special,” he said. “It's important for the club and us, as players, to give back to the community, to the fans who support us. The community is everything to the club, it doesn't exist without the city, without the fans, without the people in the area. This community is like your extended family; it’s everyone around you, it's who you are, it's who you grow up with, it's who you spend time around. We're all here together, so it's always important for us to give back to our neighbors and help others in the community.”
Kaysville native and Utah Royals midfielder Mikayla Cluff was lacing up several students’ shoes.
“Doing this makes me happy; it’s really
humbling,” she said. “It’s fun to see the joy it brings them and see the smiles on their faces. It’s rewarding to put other people’s needs first and think of others besides yourself.”
RSL Hall of Famer and retired goalkeeper Nick Rimando kept his promise to return to help this year, tying shoes with one arm in a sling from a rotator cuff injury.
“When I was younger, my parents always took me to give food for Thanksgiving, give presents to others in the community,” he said. “We didn’t come from much growing up, but it was the way I was raised, to give back. I knew with my platform playing soccer, I could even do more, and I knew I wanted to stay in the community and give back to those who supported me. When I was here last year giving out shoes, it was cool to see the smiles of the kids who are less fortunate; it was memorable. I told them I’d do it again this year. What’s neat is everyone here is wanting to do this and that means something in itself. It takes a lot for the community to come together, to give these students shoes and a meal, this opportunity to see the field and locker rooms. It’s a beautiful memory for them and us.”
Principal Mackay realized the significance.
“It literally is like Christmas,” she said. “These kids are excited, and they are so deserving of all of this. In the past, Warm the Souls has given about 50 students shoes so for them to be able to provide them for all our students, it’s amazing. A lot of times, people think they need to look in different countries or different areas to provide service; they don't realize their neighbors are ones who need help, and they can serve their neighbors here. We’re grateful America First and RSL are providing this opportunity for us.” l
Leo, RSL’s mascot, greeted Midvale Elementary students as they colored before they toured the stadium. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
RSL defender Philip Quinton talks to Midvale Elementary students after they got new tennis shoes as part of America First Credit Union’s Warm the Soles in partnership with Real Salt Lake and the Utah Royals. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Jazz star Kessler takes kids on Walmart shopping spree
By Tom Haraldsen | t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com
It’s safe to say that for 10 local youth, this Christmas got off to a jazzy start. On Dec. 9, 10 young members of the Midvale Boys & Girls Club were treated to a shopping spree with Utah Jazz star Walker Kessler.
He joined with parents and other Jazz teammates (who tagged along in support) at the Walmart store in Jordan Landing. The kids each received $200 gift cards from Kessler and Walmart to use on a shopping spree throughout the store.
Kessler led the kids on a shopping cart run through the store, starting as you might imagine in the toys department. He used his 7-foot height to reach for anything high on the shelves, though most of the toys and other gifts the young people wanted were at eye level.
“This is a tradition for Walker, and we’re honored to be a part of it,” said Amana Rae Gardner, president and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Salt Lake. “Events like this not only bring joy but also inspire youth to embrace the spirit of giving. By witnessing the generosity of role models like Walker, our kids see firsthand the power of community and the difference they can make.”
The kids were all smiles as they spoke
to the Jazz star while filling their shopping carts. The gifts they chose ranged from board games and toys to presents for their family members. Kessler was fully engaged with them, signing everything they presented to him, except when they wanted their hands signed.
“No, you don’t want ink on your hands,” he told one young girl with a smile on her face. “We can find something else.”
And they did. One Walmart employee even asked Kessler to sign his work vest.
“We treasure this opportunity to support Walker Kessler’s and the Boys & Girls Clubs’ efforts to make the holidays extra bright this year for local children,” said Cody Backman from Walmart in a release.
“Our staff looks forward to hosting this meaningful event and witnessing the joy it will bring to these kids.”
Shoppers in the store were drawn to the children and the media members who were following Kessler and the entourage through the store. It wasn’t hard to spot them given Kessler’s height.
“It’s always fun to see their excitement when we come to stores,” Kessler said.
While many of the kids and their families were impressed to be in Kessler’s company, one young boy was also honest in his
athletic aspirations. When Kessler asked him what he wanted to be when he grew up, the young man named Marco said, “I want to play soccer.”
Gardner said there are more than 5,000 Utah youth currently involved in the
Boys & Girls Clubs’ programs in Greater Salt Lake. The shopping spree is just one of many programs the clubs implemented this holiday season for youth. l
Honoring service: Canyons’ superintendent recognizes dedication of outgoing school board members
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Twelve years ago, when middle schoolers were born, pre-pandemic issues in education focused on teacher pay, need for increased technology and student college and career readiness.
Canyons School District’s Board of Education member and former president Nancy Tingey not only witnessed it all, but she worked to find solutions for them all.
Never one to focus on herself, but compliment those around her, Tingey led the board to increase teacher salaries and provide support for student learning and preparedness for their future.
She also navigated Canyons through the pandemic, often working with then new Superintendent Rick Robins.
“Through the pandemic with the different voices, the passion and the issues we faced, one thing I remember most is Nancy would always say to us, ‘Listen, listen to the silent majority; listen to those who are not speaking,’” Robins said. “I always took that to heart, because in these jobs, sometimes we get so many different voices from different angles, and we try to listen to all, but Nancy would always remind us to listen to the silent too. She’d
ask, ‘What are those who are not speaking really saying to us?’ Those people send their kids to us, they trust us and they love their schools and their teachers. They may not voice it in an email or come to a board meeting, but we need to listen to them too.
That is something I learned from her in leadership, and it applies to keep balance in the issues we face in the district. She taught me that great lesson.”
Tingey is retiring from the school board at the end of this term, but she still plans to volunteer at Quail Hollow Elementary.
“Nancy’s impact and legacy is a true example of what a servant leader is,” Robins continued. “I've been fortunate to work with her as superintendent. To see her calm, steady hand guide the District all those years has been really impressive, and we're going to miss her leadership and her dedication to Canyon School District. If there's a person that really symbolizes the birth of this district and what it has meant to this entire community, it’s her.”
Fellow board member, Kris Millerberg, also will leave the board and has plans to help in schools. She stepped up
to fill the position after the February 2024 death of her husband, Mont Millerberg, who served the board since its infancy.
“Kris came in at a time when Mont passed away, when there was a lot of anxiety about his position as he was an icon in Canyons School District,” Robins said. “She stepped into her husband's shoes being a stalwart and it turned out, we needed her style of leadership. She stabilized the situation, bringing a calm leadership. I appreciate how she’s always positive and she’s often in our schools and at schools’ activities. Her commitment and dedication to the District is notable, and knowing Kris, she will continue to support Canyons Education Foundation. That’s something she and her family have really taken to heart. I see the Millerberg family continuing to be part of our District going forward.”
He said he appreciates their hours of service, their positive and calm leadership and willingness to serve.
“They’re both great servant leaders who support our students and our teachers,” he said. “We’re most grateful.” l
Utah Jazz star Walker Kessler and Walmart gave the youth $200 gift cards for their holiday spending.
(Tom Haraldsen/City Journals)
At a Dec. 3 reception, current and former colleagues came to thank Canyons School District’s Board of Education member and former president Nancy Tingey for her 12 years of service. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Winning play: Strong foundation and drive power Huskies to success on and off court
Whenmost Hillcrest High boys on the school basketball team graduate, they may not be signing with a college team. However, they will be taking some valuable lessons with them.
“I tell our athletes we want them to be good basketball players, but it's more important they leave our program more prepared for life,” Hillcrest head basketball coach Brandon Sluga said. “I want them to learn how to respect others and set themselves up to be prepared for the future to make the world a better place. They have a lot of opportunities to play basketball, but within basketball, there are opportunities to improve as a person. I talk to them and give them little tidbits, when there's teachable moments. As high school kids, they're going to do some exceptional things, and we praise that. When they don't do so well, we try to use that as a teaching moment that we can all learn.”
It's something he learned from his dad.
“My dad was superior at that; he tried to connect everything to life,” said Sluga, who before his coaching career played for his father, then became the University of Utah’s most famous walk-on player, playing for four years, including on the team that played in the NCAA finals in 1998.
Former Bingham High coach and Hall of Famer George Sluga often said he was in the business of building character, which was more important than the wins and losses. Even so, he helped create the winning history and pride within the school, coaching six teams to state titles and accumulating nearly 500 wins.
Brandon Sluga follows that philosophy, recently having opportunities to praise and educate his team.
“The way I started practice today is I told the kids how proud of them I was. I watched film, and in the film, we missed a lot of open shots in our last game, even though we won by 22. But I said, ‘Keep sharing the ball. It's beautiful basketball. We'll make more of those shots. They're going to fall. Just keep sharing it. I'm proud of how you guys love to pass the ball to each other,’” he said. “You can connect that to life. Like, ‘Are you happy when you do something for yourself or are you happier when you do something for someone else?’ Most meaningful things we do in life are team oriented. It’s rewarding to see kids get more excited for their teammate than themselves.”
At the first team practice, Sluga educated freshmen about the importance of team.
“I talked to them about how we should respect each other and how you can't be successful if you're fighting with your teammate. I related it to family and said, ‘There are times where in our family, we don't always get along perfectly, and you don't necessarily agree with each other 100% of the time, but you can respect the person and find common ground to work together,’” he said. “It’s an opportunity to teach them that value.”
Sluga, who has coached at Hillcrest since
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
2020, also praises his seniors, who have become leaders on and off the court.
“I’m proud of my senior class. This is our first senior class who has made it through our program since Bantam league. They understand the value of teamwork. They do an awful lot together. They're good friends, not just teammates. That's something I can't take a credit for. The neat thing is their friendship shows on the floor. I've coached fun teams in the past, and this is probably the most fun I've had at this level. It's how close the kids are and their desire to be successful. Some things I can't coach, they just have it. They grew up playing with each other, they know how to help and make each other better,” he said.
In fact, the players on their own decided to commit to five hours of basketball per weekday this past summer.
“The main things I did with them was lift weights, occasional open gyms and our spring and summer leagues and tournaments. But it was the boys who wanted to have consistent work and took it upon their own to work out. I have a senior class that really wants to win and do well,” he said.
That desire to play well combined with playing together for years is showing on the floor as the Huskies started the season 3-1, led by senior co-captain Myles Mahler, who returned from a knee injury.
“We have three guys back who started last year. Myles is like a whole new kid; he had knee surgery, and it's healed up extremely well. He's our leading scorer so far through the first four games. He's averaging 17 points a game, and seven or eight rebounds,” he said, adding Myles’ twin, Anton, and junior Ezra Bell also are returning starters. “It’s been a fun year so far. Even the game we lost, we were right there to win. Those are games we feel like we'll win
down the road. We're going to keep getting better.”
Also in his rotation are seniors Guillermo Martinez, Thomas Ashby and Josh Pike, who is a co-captain. Ashby’s younger brother, Tyler, who is a sophomore, also is in the rotation as well as junior Jay Watkins, Grady Court and Jack Bradburn.
The coaches’ preseason poll placed Hillcrest third in region, behind the state’s 4A No. 1 and 2 seeds, Cottonwood High and Murray High, respectively.
“I told our players we have as good of teams in our region as there are in the state and we can compete with the best of them,” he said. “We play a lot of different defenses. We are a bit smaller and quicker this year so we're trying to make the most of those assets. We're scoring a lot more this year. We do like to get up and down the floor, but we can play half court as well. We’re playing at a high speed and it's a fun brand of basketball.”
The team will play Olympus High and Mountain View High in a tournament late December, followed by Cedar Valley High before Region 10 play begins.
“We'll be well prepared with the start we've had; we're excited to get to region,” Sluga said.
JV and sophomore teams are 3-1, with the freshman team, 4-0.
“It looks like we're starting to see the fruits of those labors for years now. Our Bantam program has about 80 kids again, between fifth and eighth grade; they are going to continue to play and develop. We're building something that's sustainable. Our coaches are work-
ing hard to keep kids developing, working on skills and their knowledge. We have parents involved, who are helping facilitate the program,” he said.
Sluga not only is proud of is how well the team has played and fundraised for their uniforms, tournaments and opportunities to play, but also of their academic successes.
“Five boys in the senior class have a combined GPA of 3.5 and three of them have a 3.9. I’m proud of their academics. But there's one boy on the team who has a family situation, and he struggles. We made a goal with him to go to school every day, and I'm proud when he tells me, ‘Coach, I went to school; I made up this, I did that.’ He's making progress toward graduation. Everybody's success is not the same, but everyone can have some success, and those habits bleed over into your team, and you have more success as a group. That young man, he’s building habits that down the road will pay off for him and give him other opportunities outside of basketball,” he said.
That value reflects lessons he learned from his coach and dad, who at 82, will watch some Husky games.
“He’ll still give me tidbits, but if you asked him what the most important things are, it would not be the X's and O's,” Sluga said. “The X's and O's are fun, and that's part of why we love basketball, but the more important part is just helping people grow for their future. Most aren’t going to be like me and stay in basketball. They're going to do other things with their lives, but hopefully those lessons they learn through basketball can help them out along the way.” l
Hillcrest junior Ezra Bell, seen here last season, is a returning varsity starter for the Huskies. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Seen coaching his team on the court, Hillcrest High head basketball coach Brandon Sluga says, “The X's and O's are fun, and that's part of why we love basketball, but the more important part is just helping people grow for their future.” (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Senior Anton Mahler, seen here blocking a shot against Jordan High last season, has helped the Huskies with a 3-1 start this season. (Julie Slama/ City Journals)
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Most Common Winter Ailments & How to Prevent Them
With the winter season in full swing, so too are those pesky illnesses and ailments we all seem to catch this time of year. We’re sitting down with Dr. Jared Lambert, MD, at CommonSpirit Health West Jordan Family Medicine Clinic, to discuss what illnesses he treats during the colder months and how you can prevent them!
What are the most common winter ailments you treat year after year?
1. By far the most common illness seen this type of year are viral respiratory tract infections. This could be one of the many types of viruses that cause the common cold, RSV, influenza or COVID-19. Typical viral symptoms include sinus congestion, fatigue, muscle and joint aches, fever, and cough. These illnesses are best treated with over-the-counter medications to ease symptoms as our bodies fight off the viral infection. Typically, symptoms last 1-2 weeks and some common medications include over-the-counter decongestants, cough suppressants, ibuprofen and Tylenol. In the case of a COVID-19 infection however, higher risk patients (i.e. having a history of diabetes, asthma, age >50, or having COPD) are recommended to be seen by their provider to strongly consider utilizing the antiviral medication “Paxlovid”. This medication can decrease their risk of progression to a severe form of COVID-19 that could potentially warrant hospitalization.
This is also the time of year to obtain your influenza vaccination, which helps reduce the risk of complications from the flu, including post-influenza bacterial pneumonia.
Viral infections do increase the risk of developing bacterial infections including bacterial sinusitis and otitis
media (ear infection and bacterial pneumonia). These forms of infections do require treatment with antibiotics. Risks of untreated bacterial pneumonia can be severe and prompt treatment with oral antibiotics is warranted. If symptoms include a persistent cough, fever or prolonged chest pain, then an in-person visit for evaluation and consideration for a chest Xray would be considered.
2. Strep Pharyngitis (strep throat)
Strep throat can occur at any time of the year but is most prevalent in the winter and spring months, likely due to our increased time indoors – overall, it is more common in children. Symptoms including a sudden sore throat, tender neck, red swollen tonsils and fever are typical. This bacterial infection of the throat can lead to several complications and it is recommended that it is treated promptly with a course of antibiotics.
3. Arthritis-related pain
The cold weather is known to certainly exacerbate aches and pains related to arthritis (wear and tear of joints). The most common joints affected by arthritis are the knees, hands, hips and spine. First line management is staying active or considering structured physical therapy with a physical therapist, in addition to, as needed, over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (i.e. ibuprofen). In addition, taking a 3000-4000 mg total daily dose of a turmeric supplement, divided into two doses, has also shown particular promise in being a potent anti-inflammatory in reducing arthritis pain; however this supplement (along with others) can interact with prescribed medications. It is recommended that you review this option with your primary care provider before taking it.
When is it time to see a physician?
Those common colds are best managed at home. However, if there are any concerns with prolonged or severe symptoms, evaluation would be recommended.
If a patient suspects they have strep throat, they should be seen by a healthcare provider. At our clinic, we have on-site testing to confirm strep throat to aid with appropriate management.
Should patients have concerns for severe pain secondary to arthritis, more advanced interventions can certainly be considered for management. Those can be best assessed and discussed in-person at our clinic.
What are some tips to stay healthy throughout the winter months?
Hand washing, staying home when ill, staying active and ensuring a balanced diet throughout the winter season.
We are here for you – should you suffer from any of the symptoms outlined above, Dr. Lambert encourages you to seek care! “I love being a Family Medicine Physician, treating all ages, and greatly enjoy getting to know and caring for my patients,” said Dr. Lambert. “Our office has some of the most caring providers and amazing staff I have had the privilege to work with.” You may reach Dr. Lambert’s office at 801-569-9133.
Learn more about the services, care providers and missiondriven work of the Holy Cross hospitals and CommonSpirit Health at www.holycrossutah.org.
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.
A Q&A with Dr. Jared Lambert, MD — West Jordan Family Medicine Physician
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Dr. Jared Lambert, MD West Jordan Family Medicine
Out of this world: Hillcrest High’s eco-friendly pesticide experiment reaches ISS
When five Hillcrest High juniors apply to college, they will have something on their applications which few others across the world will be able to include.
The girls will have spent nearly two years on providing insight to the effects of microgravity on nematodes, which act as a natural pest control. Their results may provide information about space agriculture and a step toward growing sustainable food for astronauts.
Currently, their project, “Nematodes to the Rescue,” is aboard the International Space Station, after being loaded onto Space X’s Falcon 9 on Nov. 4.
It was one of 30 student projects chosen from around the world for the astronauts to conduct as part of NASA’s Student Spaceflight Experiments Program, said Hillcrest teacher Clief Castleton, who serves an adviser for students.
“This could change the future,” Castleton said. “It could help determine longterm flights and if we set a permanent base on Mars, it could be as a natural pesticide and become a practical solution for controlling pests when growing crops in space. That’s a game changer. This has been a wonderful opportunity for the team. It’s an authentic science research opportunity — from designing the project to writing a proposal to each step of the experiment to carrying it out on Earth and preparing it for space.”
It’s the second time Hillcrest High students’ experiment has been selected to study in space. Selected in 2010, in the second year of SEEP, Hillcrest students sent a frog embryo study on the Space Shuttle Endeavour.
This group was one of 15 groups of Hillcrest High students who applied with proposals. More than 4,000 proposals were submitted worldwide, Castleton said.
The girls were amazed when they continued to advance in the selection process. It was announced they were chosen at a December 2023 school assembly.
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Hillcrest High juniors Rosemary Lu, Jasmine He and Bella Nguyen, along with Samhita Chavakula and Vidushi Shelat (not pictured), researched and conducted a comparison agricultural study about nematodes on Earth and in space. (Julie Slama/ City Journals)
Junior Bella Nguyen said it was surprising because she didn’t think they would be chosen.
“If we're being honest, we are not that big into science at first,” she said. “The more we got into our topic, and talked to our mentor, the more our interest grew.”
They connected virtually with their mentor, USDA fruit and tree nut research entomologist David Shapiro-Ilan in Georgia, after they researched and learned about space agriculture, a topic which appealed to them. He provided the students with the nematodes.
“Space agriculture hasn’t had as much research compared to other topics. I like the fact there's so much information which hasn't been explored yet, but at the same time, with the research that has been explored, I’d want to connect them to learn more about the world,” Nguyen said.
It’s been a steep learning curve.
Before this, junior Rosemary Lu hadn’t heard of nematode. Now she, and others on the team, interact with professionals who study the microscopic roundworms about the way they can target an insect’s immune system within a day or two.
“Our experiment looks into how two types of nematodes are able to infect mealworms in microgravity to determine how well they work as a pest control,” she said noting the same experiment which was sent to space also was conducted by the team in Midvale. “I’ve been able to understand more of what professionals do in the field. I’ve learned how to research and write proposals and grants.”
Nguyen said they learned to communicate and manage their time.
“One night, we were sitting here until 6 p.m. doing our research paper with Castleton. We wanted to make sure everyone understands the implications and how it's going to affect the world,” she said. “I’m grateful for the experience, because it teaches you a lot about the scientists’ work.”
Junior Jasmine He said they learned to problem-solve and adjust their experiment through trial and error.
“We had a few challenges with the actual testing of the experiment,” she said. “We learned a lot of things don't work as well in reality as they work on paper. We had to get the amount of the materials just right, or else the worms may get too hot, and they die, or maybe they won't get to the food because something else is off.”
The group also had to meet exact measurements and rules which different entities required.
“Everything had to be perfect, and we had to do each step multiple times. It was tedious,” Nguyen said.
That included weighing the 12 nematodes and mealworms which were packed in tubes filled with sand. The students had to find the right mix of sand, water and air to allow the worms to survive, then they had to calculate every aspect of the experiment which headed into space.
The eight-week experiment means the little worms should return to Earth in January, barring delays.
Earth.
“If I’m optimistic, they will have juice so we can cut them open easily and get them under the microscope to study. If I'm being realistic, they're probably going to come back crunchy,” He said.
Nguyen said this is the uncertainty of the study since the resident time is double the time the group previously performed the experiment. That was on Earth and didn’t include the variables of shipping the experiment across the country to Kennedy Space Center or shuttling to the ISS, she added.
Castleton said the team members, which also include juniors Samhita Chavakula and Vidushi Shelat, will present their findings to a national audience this summer. Traditionally, it is held at the Smithsonian in June.
The career and technical education and math teacher hopes Hillcrest students will be selected to participate again next fall before the ISS comes down in 2031.
“We want to expose our students to as many real-world opportunities as we can,” he said about the opportunity that cost $27,000.
Castleton said the group received a $10,000 Canyons Education Foundation grant and the school chipped in $15,000. The team fundraised for the remaining $2,000 and was supported by the Husky STEAM space.
While none of the girls have ambitions to go into space and are busy with other high school activities — debate, DECA, FBLA, HOSA, competitive piano, tennis and more, Nguyen said she has become more interested in a career field in research.
“This has become educational in a way that I wouldn’t have received anywhere else. It’s something I’ve appreciated and can share with others,” she said. “It’s still amazing to think we have a project in space right now.”
He agrees.
“If the nematodes work the same way in space as they do on Earth, then they're able to be effective pest control in space. That means we can start to grow plants in space and feed astronauts who need a more sustainable food source so nematodes will help with that. I like we’re exploring something new that will impact the future,” He said.
“There’s a possibility what we learn can also help with environmentally friendly pest management on Earth.”
However, the team isn’t sure what to expect when the tiny worms return to
“I like doing actual research; it's a lot different from the labs we do in class. It’s connected to real issues, where there isn’t a set path to follow as a lab procedure,” she said. “We want to write it and submit it to a journal so we can share our results with other scientists who are doing the similar research.”
Through the experiment, Lu gained something else.
“This has made it so I can just pick up mealworms now. I used to be, ‘They’re really gross,’” she said. “Now I'm like, whatever. I don’t even bother to get the tweezers anymore.” l
MIDVALE CITY DIRECTORY
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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 -
WHO TO CALL FOR…
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PUBLIC SAFETY & EMERGENCY CONTACTS
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> Non-emergency .............................. 801-840-4000
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In The Middle of Everything
City Hall – 7505 South Holden Street • Midvale, UT 84047
Meet Dustin Gettel: Midvale City’s New Mayor
Dustin Gettel, an avid sports fan, basketball referee, healthcare law expert, and seven-year council member, now serves as Midvale’s mayor.
Gettel grew up in rural Pennsylvania and attended college in Philadelphia. Midvale feels like home and the best of both worlds—a small-town feel with easy access to the vibrant energy of downtown. In 2015, he visited Utah to see a friend, and before he even landed, he was already in love with the state. He fondly recalls his rst glimpse from the plane, saying, “So that’s what real mountains look like.” He moved to Midvale soon after and has loved it ever since.
His journey to leadership and government began in high school. He developed a passion for advocating for people without a voice when he was elected vice president of his student body council. “I enjoyed bringing the concerns of the students to the administration,” he recalls.
He earned his undergraduate degree in Human Resource Management from Neumann University and went on to complete a Master’s in Healthcare Law and Regulation at Delaware Law School. His education laid the groundwork for his deep understanding of both the practical and legal aspects of leadership.
His leadership positions have taught him compassion, moderation and cooperation. “My focus has always been representing others,” he said. “Even though I have my own opinions, we are elected to represent the viewpoints of our constituents. They have very di erent ideas than you. Maintaining a respectful debate has served me well over the years.”
After serving on the Midvale City Council, transitioning to Mayor is a big shift. “I see this more as a role of being an advocate for our
residents, those who work at city hall, and a collaborative member of the city council,” he explained. “It’s important for the mayor to be out there in the community and advocating for city initiatives.
When he’s not refereeing for Salt Lake County Men and Women’s basketball, working at the Utah Department of Health or Midvale City Hall, you’ll likely nd Gettel outdoors, trying a new restaurant, or reading.
He’s set himself the goal of walking the entire Jordan River Trail, which spans a whopping 45 miles. “In the last few months, I’ve walked from Thanksgiving Point to Murray,” he says excitedly. “The trail is a hidden gem a lot of people don’t know exists.” He hopes to complete the entire length from Saratoga Springs to Ogden by next year.
Gettel loves exploring the diversity of Midvale’s local restaurants, believing it rivals the best eateries in Philadelphia. “I love trying out new restaurants. I’m pretty adventurous,” he says.
A lifelong learner, Gettel still treasures his well-worn favorite childhood book, The Complete Book of U.S. Presidents by William A. DeGregorio. He’s had the book since 3rd grade and can still recite all the U.S. presidents in chronological order. The book taught him that sometimes many powerful people start at the very bottom. He pointed out, “Most have very humble upbringing. We see how people go from living in impoverished towns to living in the White House.”
Gettel is the proud dog dad of two; Link, a Miniature Schnauzer and Nova, a Shih tzu–poodle mix. His favorite sports teams are the New York Giants, Utah Jazz, Utah Utes and the Baltimore Orioles. His passion for people, collaboration, and harmony will drive him as he strives to make Midvale a better place for all.
Save the Dates: 2025 Midvale City Council Meetings
Midvale City invites residents and stakeholders to participate in the 2025 City Council meetings, a valuable opportunity to stay informed and contribute to the community’s governance and decision-making.
The meetings will take place in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 7505 South Holden Street, Midvale City, Utah, unless noted otherwise. Meetings typically begin at 6:00 p.m., with exact start times provided on the o cial agenda at Midvale.Utah.gov/Agenda. For those unable to attend in person, live streaming is available at Midvale.Utah.gov/YouTube. Recordings of the meetings will also be accessible for later viewing.
To stay updated, visit Midvale.Utah.gov/Agenda for the meeting agenda, agenda packet, and minutes.
2025 Business Meeting Schedule
• January: January 7, January 21
• February: February 4, February 18
• March: March 4, March 18
• April: April 1, April 15
• May: May 6, May 20
• June: June 3, June 17
• July: July 1, July 15
• August: August 5, August 19
• September: September 2, September 16
• October: October 7, October 21
• November: November 18
• December: December 2
Important Notes
• This schedule is subject to change. Please refer to the Midvale City website, Midvale.Utah.gov/Agenda, for updates.
• The start time for each meeting will be speci ed in the meeting agenda, which is published in advance.
• Additional meetings may be scheduled, or existing ones adjusted, as needed by the City Council.
Midvale City encourages all residents to participate in these meetings to stay informed and help shape the community’s future. Your involvement makes a di erence!
In The Middle of Everything
Midvale’s GIS turns data into story
Geographical Information Systems (GIS) is a collection of every piece of information about a place. In Midvale, we have data about everything you think you’d need to know. A lot might seem mundane, or even useless - from the materials of the sewer pipes and how long they’ve been there, to the length of the sidewalks, to the number of streetlights. We also have the data of where the restaurants are, where the apartments and the single-family house are. And we have data on where crimes are committed, where car accidents happen, and types of emergencies.
A spreadsheet full of numbers can be dull, but when that data is visualized on a map, it transforms into a compelling story.
Maybe the number of accidents has something to do with the street lines. Maybe the number of kids not attending school has something to do with bus routes. Maybe the robberies have something to do with food insecurity.
Midvale’s GIS team tracks and stores all this data to help the City tell its stories.
Matt Hilderman, GIS Manager for Midvale City, said data collection is getting easier with drones and AI identi cation software. Drones can y faster than a person can walk the streets, and AI will identify cracks in streets and sidewalks, tree species, neighborhood swimming pools, and more.
Data also comes from public works, the police and re department, city planning, economic development and more.
Sharing data means everyone can work together to determine how to care for the City, from the streets to the people.
“GIS allows cities to make data-driven decisions that enhance e ciency, sustainability, and quality of life for residents.” Some of the biggest impact can be seen in Urban Planning & Zoning, infrastructure (roads and utility lines) and transportation management, disaster response and Social Services & Public Health.
Not only does the data help all departments within Midvale plan for the future, but helps cities work together.
“GIS … impacts almost every aspect of our lives,” Hilderman said. “From improving public services to helping drive economic growth and ensuring environmental sustainability. GIS helps improve the services you use every day, makes cities smarter and more sustainable, and empowers communities and increases transparency.”
“Whether it’s managing global environmental challenges, coordinating disaster response, optimizing trade, or monitoring public health trends, GIS provides critical insights that help governments, organizations, and businesses respond to complex global challenges.”
When data is combined, it can become powerful information. To see how simple data can have a global impact, ESRI (Environmental Systems Research Institute), tells the story of living in the age of humans, the world of forests, the diversity of life on earth, and more.
Come see some of Midvale’s GIS stories through our interactive maps: You can learn about…
• Planning and Zoning - How the pieces of land t together to tell the story of living, working and playing, with land-use zoning districts and city council districts
• Construction projects - The future of your roads
• Utility Billing - Where your bills go and why your neighbors might be di erent than yours, with water service districts, sewer service maps, and trash and recycling schedules
• Midvale City Parks - Find out where all your parks are and the amenities they have to o er
• Disc Golf Course - This map shows the locations of each basket, tee box and potential best lies for Midvale City’s disc golf course.
• Main Street Murals - See art history in the making, where artists share their talent and parables. Main Street and the surrounding area is lled with new murals each year.
• Aerial Imagery - What Midvale used to look like and how it has changed from 2004 to 2024. Try selecting two years and dragging the bar to change the image and see the di erence.
Midvale City O ers Housing Programs to Support Local Residents
Midvale City is proud to continue o ering two impactful housing programs designed to bene t low-to-moderate income households. In partnership with NeighborWorks Salt Lake, these initiatives provide critical resources to help residents achieve homeownership and maintain safe, sustainable housing.
Down Payment Assistance Program
The Down Payment Assistance Program is designed to make homeownership more accessible for rst-time homebuyers in Midvale. Through this program, eligible participants receive:
• Comprehensive homebuyer education to prepare for the responsibilities of owning a home.
• Up to $30,000 in down payment assistance, helping to overcome one of the biggestnancial barriers to purchasing a home.
This program is a key step in fostering economic stability and building a stronger, more connected community by helping renters become homeowners.
Home Repair Loan Program
For current homeowners, the Home Repair Loan Program provides essential support to address pressing housing needs. Through this program, quali ed residents can access:
• Forgivable loans of up to $15,000.
• Funding for emergency repairs, safety improvements, energy-e cient upgrades, and housing preservation e orts.
The program ensures that homeowners can maintain safe and sustainable living conditions while preserving the quality of Midvale’s housing stock.
Investing in Our Community
These programs re ect Midvale City’s commitment to supporting residents at every stage of their housing journey. Whether assisting rst-time buyers or helping existing homeowners preserve their properties, these initiatives aim to:
• Strengthen neighborhoods through increased homeownership.
• Enhance the quality and safety of housing throughout the city.
• Provide equitable opportunities for nancial stability and long-term growth.
We encourage all eligible residents to explore these programs and take advantage of the resources available. Sharing this information with friends, family, and neighbors can help ensure more community members bene t from these opportunities.
For more details, including eligibility requirements and application processes, visit Midvale.Utah.gov/Housing. Together, we can create a stronger Midvale for everyone.
JANUARY 2025 CITY NEWSLETTER
MIDVALE. UTAH. GOV
Salt Lake County Animal Services: A Year of Impact and Inspiration in 2024
As the largest no-kill municipal animal shelter in Utah, Salt Lake County Animal Services has had an extraordinary year, serving as a lively and compassionate hub for animals of all kinds. From the familiar faces of dogs, cats, guinea pigs, and rabbits to the more unconventional residents like goats, pigs, snakes, lizards, turtles, and even pet spiders, every day brings something amazing.
Here’s a glimpse of the incredible milestones we’ve achieved from January 1 to December 1, 2024:
• 2,800 pets found their forever homes! Through adoptions and rescue placements, these wonderful animals have embarked on new journeys with loving families.
• Over 4,200 pets were sterilized in our in-house clinic, ensuring a positive impact on pet overpopulation and promoting responsible ownership.
• Our incredible volunteers gave over 7,500 hours of their time, providing care, enrichment, and love to our shelter pets.
• A thriving Foster Program! More than 2,700 pets received the nurturing support of foster homes, preparing them for their next chapter.
None of this would be possible without the support of our community and the dedication of our sta , volunteers, and foster families.
Want to get involved? Explore opportunities to volunteer, adopt, foster, license your pet, microchip, or donate by visiting AdoptUtahPets.org. With your support, we’re transforming lives and creating brighter futures for pets and their people!”
Happy New Year from all of us at Salt Lake County Animal Services!
Midvale City 2025 Recycling Calendar
Canyons
Word is getting out about the learning and growth happening in Canyons District’s preschools and kindergarten programs. To meet the needs of the community, preschool is now available at 13 locations across the District. With districtwide access to free full-day kindergarten, Canyons District kindergarteners also now enjoy double the learning and double the fun! Families can also choose a half-day schedule. Now is the time to enroll for the 20252026 school year. Families can apply for Canyons District’s early childhood programs from Jan. 8 through Feb. 28, 2025. Parents: Join us for an upcoming Open House and take home a free pencil case and coloring book!
All children should have access to learning opportunities suited to their interests and needs. Looking for hands-on, project-based learning in science and technology? How about top-ranked music, dance, and theater programs, or high school courses that will earn you college credit? All this, and more, can be found at CSD. Come nd out why CSD is the place to be. You won’t be alone. For the fth consecutive year, Canyons has seen an increase in the number of students enrolling from outside CSD’s boundaries. The Early Enrollment window is open through the last Friday in February, 2025. Apply at canyonsdistrict.org
5
Winter is the perfect season to create lasting family memories. Whether you bundle the kids up for an ice skating party, sled down powdery hills or enjoy a cup of warm cocoa, this season reminds us to embrace togetherness and make the most of these cold months. Here are some thrilling winter activities your family and friends will love.
Snowshoeing in Millcreek Canyon
Visit your favorite trails in the winter for a snowshoeing adventure. Millcreek Canyon has lots of fun trails that take you past waterfalls and rivers as you snowshoe through the area. The Church Fork Trail in Millcreek is highly recommended for winter adventures. Snowshoes can be purchased or rented for the entire family and dogs can join you on these trails. The Church Fork trailhead is located about 3 miles up the canyon at the north end of the picnic area. Dress appropriately and
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
bring water and snacks. There is a $5 fee to enter canyon.
Herriman Ice Ribbon, 13082 S. Fort Herriman Pkwy.
Celebrate winter with a trip to the Herriman Ice Ribbon for outside skating at J. Lynn Crane Plaza. Take a lap, or two, around the ice ribbon, then warm your hands by the fire pits. Opened in 2017, the skating location has grown in popularity and reservations are required. Skaters of all levels are encouraged to participate and there are walkers to help beginning ice skaters. The cost for an adult (14+) with skate rental is $10, children (3-14) cost $8 with skate rental and children 2 and under are free. Visit Herriman.gov/ ice-ribbon for daily schedules and to reserve skating time for your group.
Sledding at Sugar House Park, 1330 E. 2100 South Sugar House Park is the perfect location for a family sledding experience. The park spans more than 100 acres and popular hills provide a variety of steepness offering the perfect mix of thrill and safety for sledders of all ages. With the Wasatch Mountains towering in the background, the park becomes a winter wonderland. Convenient parking makes it easy to enjoy the fun. Finish the day with a cup of hot chocolate from local vendors in the area.
Fat tire biking in the canyons
Don’t let the snowy roads put your cycling on ice. Jump on your fat tire bike (rentals are available) and head to the hills. Millcreek Canyon (fee), Corner Canyon and Butterfield Canyon offer numerous cycling trails for cyclists of any
level, with the bigger, less-inflated tires providing better grip to keep you riding safely in the snow. The best time to ride is after the trails are tramped down, so powder days are not a good option. Be sure to dress in layers, carry water and snacks and watch the weather forecast!
Visit the Homestead Crater
If you’re done with snowy, cold activities, take a trip to Midway and warm up in the Homestead Crater at the Homestead Resort. This geothermal spring is hidden within a beehive-shaped rock and stays at around 95 degrees all year. While in the crater, you can soak in the therapeutic waters, swim, scuba dive or take a paddleboard yoga class. Reservations are required so visit HomesteadResort.com to schedule your adventure. l
In January, Utah becomes a winter playground with activities the whole family can enjoy. (Stock photo)
h ealth & W ellness
By Rebecca Olds
Moving and getting in shape doesn’t have to be a chore.
Finding something that you enjoy doing makes exercising and being active feel more like play rather than work, while still giving you the same or better benefits as visiting a normal gym.
Unique fitness experiences exist around Salt Lake County which offers unique excursions and experiences like a new underwater yoga flow, an educational and adventurous late-night snowshoe tour, and so much more.
Here are six fitness adventures including indoor and outdoor fun for all skill levels:
Yoga with the Sharks at Loveland Living Planet Aquarium (Draper)
There’s a certain type of Zen to obtain surrounded by shark-infested waters. Loveland Living Planet Aquarium offers an hourlong instructor-led class in front of a tank teeming with sea creatures on select Monday nights.
Allison Barker, director of development and chair of the Conservation Committee at Loveland Living Planet Aquarium said many participants have said the unique atmosphere creates a peaceful environment with many health benefits including “the gentle rhythm of the water and the mesmerizing movements of the sharks, fish and sea turtles” helping to reduce stress and anxiety.
“Ultimately, Yoga with the Sharks offers a transformative experience combining physical and mental benefits,” she said. “By practicing yoga in such an unusual and beautiful setting, participants gain a deeper appreciation for themselves and the natural world.”
The 2025 dates will be released near the end of December.
Included with the event is admission to check out the rest of the aquarium, but you’ll probably want to go earlier than
the class time from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. because the aquarium closes at 8 p.m. The class is open to 8-year-olds and older.
Registration is online and costs $25. The aquarium recommends bringing your own equipment but has some for new yogis.
Momentum Indoor Climbing (Millcreek, Sandy)
If you’ve never gone rock climbing, no biggie. It’s a new year to try new things and Momentum is a great place to learn. The Sandy location offers a variety of classes including belay instruction, rope climbing and even bouldering for any skill level.
“Our class structure is designed with progression in mind so that there’s always something for you to learn and work toward no matter your current ability,” is the Momentum mission.
If learning to climb isn’t your thing, the gym also offers yoga and group fitness classes.
Sign-up is online.
Intro to aerial class at Aerial Arts of Utah (Salt Lake City)
Think Zendaya in “The Greatest Showman”—that could be you this year. Granted, it’s a beginners class for more than just trapeze, Aerial Arts of Utah is offering quite the deal at $90 for three one-hour classes every Wednesday night.
The class is an introduction to several different types of aerial fitness, including fabric and static trapeze for those aged 13 years or older. Sign-up is online. Onyx Pole and Aerial Fitness Studio, hoop, pole, silks and hammock classes (Sandy)
In one studio, there are at least five different aerial fitness classes to choose from. Onyx offers everything from pole workouts to silks and hoops for differing levels of ability. The hammock beginner
Salt Lake County
class (1.0) is referred to as the “perfect class to not only begin your journey but to keep coming back to build those forever essential movements.”
Most classes range from beginner (1.0) to pro (4.0).
Paddleboard yoga in a natural hot spring (Midway)
The name of the Midway Crater is becoming more well-known as a unique spot to visit in Midway, but did you know that you could not only swim in it but it’s large enough to do paddleboard yoga in?
Midway Crater offers a paddleboard yoga execution that offers a unique opportunity to find your Zen in one of nature’s beautiful (and oldest) yoga studios. Blue 95-degree Fahrenheit mineral water offers an inviting cushion if you fall in.
Booking can include just the paddleboard experience or be bundled with hiking, snowshoeing and more. Park City Yoga Adventures also offers yoga in a backcountry yurt, mountaintop yoga and winter forest meditation. Book online.
Cottonwood Canyons Foundation offers four types of snowshoe guided tours, with three open to the public. For the first time, the foundation is offering tours free of charge to celebrate their 25th anniversary, including a special treat with their moonlit tours.
“It's a wonderful night when you get to hear the great horned owls calling, and you get to see some good dark skies up there,” said Liz Anderson, Cottonwood Canyons Foundation education director.
Anderson said that tours start up again on Jan. 24 and are offered every Friday and Saturday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. in January and February, and 7 to 9 p.m. in March. All you need to do is bring some snow shoes and preferably a red flashlight, poles optional. Come ready to learn more about the native wildlife.
Registration opens one month before the event date on cottonwoodcanyons.org/events.
Guided full moon snowshoe tour by Cottonwood Canyons Foundation (Alta)
(Courtesy Loveland Living Planet Aquarium)
Creating healthy financial habits in the new year
By Holly Curby | hello@hollycurby.com
As we begin a new year many people set goals of unlocking their financial freedom as they strive to live a purposeful life. Sarah Fernandez, personal financial expert, claims, “The journey to financial freedom begins with acknowledging the importance of having a financial plan.” She emphasizes that a well-structured financial plan not only clarifies your current economic status, but also empowers you to make informed decisions. “Financial success is not just about numbers,” Fernandez said, “it's about mindset and discipline.” She highlights the importance of living within your means while still enjoying life's pleasures and encourages you to take control of your financial future in the new year through the following four ways.
1. A key indicator that money might be dictating your life is often referred to as “the vanishing paycheck phenomenon.” This is where you live paycheck to paycheck which can often produce a feeling of being overwhelmed by expenses. Fernandez suggests in situations such as this to focus on the concept of “having versus experiencing” and how it affects spending habits.
2. Cultivating a mindset for financial success. Fernandez encourages people to adopt an abundant mindset and likens this
to a growth mindset, where the belief that improvement is always possible fuels your financial journey. This mindset shift not only focuses on progress and improvement, but is essential for overcoming financial stress and achieving long-term goals. Fernandez reiterates that this perspective shift allows individuals to live their best life at the moment while working toward a brighter financial future.
3. Understanding how family upbringing
can shape financial habits is vital, especially in relationships where partners may have different spending and saving tendencies. By recognizing these differences, couples can work together to align their financial goals, foster a sense of unity and understanding while building a prosperous future. “By having open and honest conversations about spending habits and priorities, couples can create a financial plan that supports their shared dreams and aspirations,” Fernandez said.
these challenges effectively in her interview on Holly’s Highlights podcast (season 3 episode 13).
“Financial freedom is attainable for anyone willing to put in the effort and make informed decisions” Fernandez said. “By cultivating a mindset of abundance, setting clear goals, and managing finances responsibly, individuals can transform their financial habits and pave the way for a successful future.”
4. Credit card usage is a double-edged sword that requires careful management. While the perks of earning miles or cash back are enticing, it's important to use credit responsibly to avoid potential pitfalls. From personal experience Fernandez stresses the necessity of self-awareness in financial decisions. “Setting boundaries and knowing when to steer clear of credit misuse are crucial steps in maintaining financial discipline” Fernandez said. Fernandez dives deeper into practical advice on how to navigate
Tune in to the complete interview with Fernandez on Holly’s Highlights podcast Season 3 Episode 13 for expert tips, personal anecdotes, and actionable strategies that will equip you with the tools needed to master your financial journey. Whether you're single or in a relationship, young or old, Fernandez's insights will inspire you to take charge of your financial destiny and live a life full of purpose. Holly’s Highlights podcast is available wherever you listen to podcasts including Apple podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, Tune-in and on www.HollyCurby.com.
Children learn healthy financial habits at a young age. (Photo courtesy of Holly Curby)
Full interview with Sarah Fernandez available on Holly’s Highlights podcast. (Photo courtesy of Sarah Fernandez)
How assisted stretching helps relieve pain and improve mobility
By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com
As we get into the cold months and lose the desire to go outside, we can become stagnant, sitting inside all the time. While some people may have more upbeat jobs, moving around throughout the day, some people are stuck inside, sitting at a desk all day.
We’ve all heard the benefits of regular exercise and the importance of stretching afterward, Dec. 11 was even National Stretching Day. But what about assisted stretching?
It’s not something widely known, but it may have more benefits than regular athome stretching. Stretch Zone is hoping to make it more well-known.
“We want to not be the best kept secret anymore,” said Jennifer Gibbs, general manager at the Draper Stretch Zone.
The company, founded in 2004 by Jorden Gold, started with an experience close to his heart. After watching his grandfather’s growing limitations due to diabetes, he decided to start helping his grandfather through assisted stretches. Within a year, his grandfather went from not being able to walk, to walking with a walker, to a cane, to dancing at his cousin’s wedding all through that stretching.
At this point, Gold knew he had to do something more, to help others that may be going through what his grandfather went through or to prevent them from getting to that point.
“The whole reason that I started Stretch Zone was sparked from watching my grandfather becoming immobile because of his diabetes,” Gold said in a statement. “It motivated me to develop a proprietary stretching method that I hoped would prevent others from having to see themselves and the people in their lives suffer in the same way.”
There are now four locations in Utah, one of them being in Draper, another in Cottonwood Heights. The practitioners at Stretch Zone offer a new approach to improving range of motion and flexibility. While traditional stretching methods can make you more flexible, it may take some time. Assisted stretching can get you there faster because you don’t have to think about the stretches you’re doing, or worry about other muscles aside from the one you’re stretching.
“So instead of walking around at 80% or 90%, super tight and stretched all the time, they can just live in a more manageable, normal, relaxed way and these changes become more lasting,” Gibbs said.
Assisted stretching can benefit everyone, even if you don’t feel like you have problem muscles. For those sitting at an office all the time, they are stuck in the same position, cramping muscles that should be able to stretch and move throughout the
day. Stress can also play a large part in muscle tension.
Assisted stretching can help reduce everyday pain and help people move more fluidly for longer periods of time. Gibbs said she’s seen a number of different types of people walk through the Stretch Zone doors. Office workers that need to get away from cramped muscles, gymgoers and marathon runners preparing for races, older adults, even CEOs that may be more stressed than others.
Gibbs said assisted stretching can also help when there’s been trauma involved, like a car accident or surgery.
“The body is so wise,” she said. “It develops all these mechanisms that get all tangled up. And then you have another thing and another thing, then it’s hard to unwind yourself.”
She said developing that range of motion back, assisting and breaking down scar tissue that develops prevents movement. She’s seen people in recovery and also people anticipating a surgery. She said assisted stretching can help loosen muscles before they’re put through surgery to stop it from yanking something around that shouldn’t move.
“The body is so amazing,” Gibbs said. “How it can heal itself with something so holistic, like a stretch.”
Usually, clients at a Stretch Zone start going multiple times a week, maybe two or three times, then as time goes on and they begin to heal, they’ll only need to come twice a month for routine maintenance.
One of Gibbs’ favorite stories to share is a marathoner that started coming in 12
ed up helping the client cut down on their race time.
“It’s keeping them healthy, too,” Gibbs said.
Many of their clients say they’ll stick with assisted stretching their entire lives. Heather Hemingway-Hales shares this point of view. Hemingway-Hales is still as active as ever, doing regular exercise, yoga, cycling, mountain biking and participating in 50-plus races. She comes in regularly to Stretch Zone.
“Just coming in here and getting this deep stress really helps,” Hemingway-Hales said.
Stretch Zones are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and open for half-days on Saturday.
Gibbs said if you’re curious about assisted stretching, to try it out for a complimentary first visit.
weeks before a race to stretch their muscles, mainly the hamstrings and hip flexors. Doing this routinely for those 12 weeks end-
“I just encourage open invitation to anybody to just give the studio a call,” she said. “So I just invite anybody to come in and try it out, because it is such a new concept.” If you want to learn more about Stretch Zone and what they offer, you can visit stretchzone.com to find the location closest to you.
Your Mental Health Deserves Care, No Matter the Season
As the days grow shorter and the cold settles in, many of us start to feel the weight of seasonal depression. If your struggle with depression includes low energy, lack of ambition, or a sense of isolation, you’re not alone—and we can help.
• NOT medicine
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IS safe and effective • IS COVERED by most insurance NeuroHealthUtah.Com
Take a free HIPAA compliant PHQ9 self assessment test.
Our Psychiatrist is available now, don’t wait to get help.
TMS is like physical therapy for the brain. It uses magnetic pulses, similar in strength to MRI, to reignite dormant connections in the brain and give you control of your depression. With NeuroStar, you can live on your terms
10437 So Temple Dr., Suite 200 South Jordan, UT 84095 385-412-9215 Visit neurostar.com for full safety and prescribing information.
Outcomes Registry data was published by Sackeim HA, et al. J Affective Disorders, 2020, 277(12):65-74. The outcomes reported represent the subset of study patients for which the CGI-S data was reported before and after an acute course of NeuroStar TMS. Patients were treated under real-world conditions where patients may have been prescribed concomitant depression treatments including medications. “Measurable relief” was defined as a CGI-S score <=3 and “complete remission” was defined as a CGI-S score <=2 at the end of treatment.
Stretch Zone patented their table with their “championship belt” to stop clients from falling off the table. (Bailey Chism/City Journals)
Turn New Year’s fitness goal into lasting habits
By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Nearly half of the people worldwide set a New Year’s resolution to improve their health.
A 2024 Forbes survey reveals 23% of U.S. participants fail in the first week and 43% drop out by February.
This trend is something Steve Espinosa, a nationally certified personal trainer at VASA's Draper gym, sees firsthand when the gym sees a spike in attendance during January and February, only to taper by March.
“It's their New Year's resolution to start working out and they have a long-term goal, but usually, it’s not specific enough for them to stick with it,” said Espinosa, who serves as the gym’s lead trainer. “Often people’s resolutions are too general, like, ‘I want to lose weight,’ ‘I want to get into the gym to build muscle or do a pull up.”
One of the first things he asks new clients is “Why do you want to come to the gym?”
Many respond with a desire to lose weight, but Espinosa digs deeper.
“Often, it’s not just about losing weight; it’s about feeling more comfortable in their bodies and gaining confidence — and that’s the why,” he said, adding often the answer is tied to emotional reasons or
to prevent health problems they’ve seen in others.
One of Espinosa’s clients, a 60-yearold woman started training three years ago, fearing she was following the same sedentary path as her mother.
“Her daily life has become easier with improved fitness. She’s stronger, more confident and skiing — and doing activities she never thought she could do, without being worried about being sore or getting hurt,” he said.
Unlike the vague New Year’s resolutions which often lead to early burnout, Espinosa works with clients to set specific, achievable goals. He recommends writing down goals to make them tangible and breaking them into smaller, incremental steps.
“You need to have a specific goal. Ask yourself, ‘What am I trying to achieve every month?’ A goal of going to the gym three times a week is a more realistic and attainable goal,” he said. “Set mini-goals, whether it’s five minutes, or an hour to hit your weekly goal. Then, build toward monthly, six-month, and yearly goals.”
Espinosa emphasizes the importance of regularly reassessing goals.
“Check in with yourself: ‘Am I am I do-
ing enough?’ If you’re not seeing results, ‘what am I not doing? Is my gym time efficient? Am I pushing myself as hard as I should be?’” he said. “Sometimes your goals may change, and you need to evolve with them.”
Espinosa talks from experience. He spent years strength training before running his first half-marathon.
“After I did one, it changed everything. I'm still working out, but my workouts changed with my goal to run more half-marathons,” he said. “Your training and your resolutions are going to evolve. The result is where you want to get to, but the journey is going to get you there.”
After being a high school athlete, Espinosa fell into unhealthy habits, including fast food and lack of exercise. Eventually he redefined his goals, embraced healthy eating, and became certified in endurance training, weight loss, muscle management and training for older adults.
“Pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone, being comfortable in the uncomfortableness of working out, makes you mentally stronger,” he said. “When I see that, it makes me happy. I want to help people.”
Other advice Espinosa offers:
• Use the gym as an escape: Espinosa said people join the gym because they need a break from the stresses of work and home. “Being in the gym helps you focus on what you're here for — yourself and your goals.”
• Be accountable: While personal trainers can provide motivation and customized workout plans, Espinosa emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility. “You need to be accountable to yourself.”
• Prioritize your fitness: “Make time for it. Don’t say, ‘When I have time, I'll do it,’” Espinosa said. “Schedule an hour twice a week to work out and build from there.”
Steve Espinosa, a nationally certified personal trainer at VASA Draper’s gym, said fitness goals should be manageable so they can be eased into routines and naturally, become habits. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Person on the Street interviews
We asked people in Salt Lake County what they were looking forward to in 2025. Here’s what they said.
Jane (left) and Siri Thackeray:
“I’m in eighth grade, so next year I’ll go to high school at Brighton and I’m going to try out for the soccer team there.”
Jane Thackeray, Sandy
“I’m looking forward to sports. I play lacrosse for high school and club, and since it’s winter, I have to take a break, but I’m excited to go back.”
Siri Thackeray, Sandy
Makena:
“I’m looking forward to learning more and growing as a person, physically and emotionally.”
Makena Bass, Riverton
Sha:
“I’m looking forward to all the change in diversity and gas prices and being able to live comfortably again. Hopefully, it will be a new beginning and a start to something new.”
Sha Primus, West Valley City
Tasha:
“We’re going to be building a house in 2025 and that’s what our family is looking forward to.”
Tasha Adair, Bluffdale
Drake:
“I’m looking forward to a new home and a new school. I look forward to summer and skating. There’s a new skate park in Hyrum that I want to try. And I’ll be 16 and I’ll get to drive.”
Joe: “My goal is to have a healthy business and a fun, adventurous business. We offer flight training and pilot services and we cater to clients that are looking to buy a Cirrus Aircraft.”
Joe Hoggan, West Valley City
Olivia:
“I’m looking forward to my kids all going to school and being able to get a job. And I want to get organized.”
Olivia Kruse, West Jordan
Rebecca:
“I’m looking forward to fixing our remodeled house.”
Rebecca Hoggan, West Valley City
Practices in Supporting Patients & Families as they prepare for End of Life and Grief
Wednesday, January 29, 2025
In Person Location: Larkin
Or scan the QR code Best Practices
Wednesday, January 29, 2025
Wednesday, January 29, 2025
In Person Location: Larkin Sunset Gardens (1950 E 10600 S, Sandy, UT 84092) Event also be held online via Zoom 9:00 am - 2:30 pm
In Person Location: Larkin Sunset Gardens (1950 E 10600 S, Sandy, UT 84092)
Gardens (1950 E 10600 S, Sandy, UT
Event also be held online via Zoom 9:00 am - 2:30 pm
5 CEUs (1 Ethics)
5 CEUs (1 Ethics)
This training is free but registration is required. Continental breakfast and lunch to be provided.
Event will also be held online via Zoom 9:00 am - 2:30 pm
This training is free but registration is required. Continental breakfast and lunch to be provided.
5 CEUs (1 Ethics)
Continental breakfast and lunch to be provided. is training is free but registration is required.
https://utahnursing.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4TJzEqlevFHx58G
https://utahnursing.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4TJzEqlevFHx58G
Or scan the QR code
UPCOMING EVENT:
LOCATION: Le Jardin, 1910 Dimple Dell Rd, Sandy, UT 84092
DATE: Tuesday, 1/28/25
TIME: 12:00 PM OR 6:00 PM
RSVP: (801) 829-1772 Space is limited, so please RSVP now!
Drake Adair, Bluffdale
Utah launches round-up program to fund homeless services
By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com
During the final days of the 2024 Utah Legislature, a new provision into the omnibus alcohol bill for the year came together last minute.
The bill, HB548, established a new program at state liquor stores to ask customers whether they’d like to round up their purchases to donate to a state fund that supports homeless service programs across Utah.
Starting Nov. 19, 2024, the Utah Department of Alcoholic Beverage Services officially launched that program in liquor and wine stores across the state.
Now, at checkout, liquor store cashiers will ask customers if they would like to round up their purchase to the nearest dollar. If they agree, their donation will go directly to the Pamela Atkinson Homeless Account, a fund named after a prominent homeless advocate. The state uses the fund to direct donations to a wide variety of homeless programs, according to state officials, including:
• Emergency services like temporary shelters, meal services, day centers and outreach programs.
• Supportive services, including case management to help people move into stable housing.
• Housing services, including rapid rehousing programs, transitional housing,
rental assistance, case management and security.
• Domestic violence service providers.
“This program offers Utahns a simple way to make a meaningful impact,” said Senate Budget Chair Jerry Stevenson, R-Layton, in a statement. “By rounding up, we can provide essential resources to those who need them most and make significant strides toward addressing homelessness in our state.”
Though the round-up program will be asking Utah customers to donate small
amounts – less than a dollar – each transaction can add up. Last year, Utah saw more than $579 million in alcohol sales, according to the Utah Department of Alcoholic Beverage Services’ 2023 annual report.
State officials estimate it will bring in roughly $2.5 million a year to the Pamela Atkinson fund.
State officials said they were eager to launch the program after the Pamela Atkinson fund’s annual donations has been “pretty stagnant” in recent years.
Utah’s growing homeless system is also seeing more projects come to fruition, including a new 50-bed microshelter community on state-owned land under freeway overpasses in Salt Lake City. State officials are also looking at possibly doing more for youth and family homelessness, as well as generally expanding the state homeless system’s capacity.
Through the round-up program, Utahns can contribute to services that have faced increased pressures as Utah’s homelessness population has grown amid diminished housing affordability, increasing cost of living, and other issues including increased needs for mental health and substance abuse treatment.
In recent years, Utah’s emergency
homeless shelters have been operating at essentially mass capacity, people suffering from mental illness have been living in shelters and jails, and “the deficit for deeply affordable housing is at 77,000 units,” according to a January report issued by the Utah Office of Homeless Services.
Meanwhile, state leaders have also dramatically increased the amount of state and federal funds funneled toward homeless services over the past three years as state leaders have taken on a more active role, agreeing that homelessness is a statewide problem, and not just a Salt Lake City problem.
In 2022, Utah appropriated about $35 million in state and federal funds on homeless services, according to the state’s budget website. That amount grew to $70 million in 2023, then to over $167.7 million in 2024 – including $30 million in one-time COVID-19 relief funding, plus about $37.3 million in other federal funds. For fiscal year 2025, state leaders appropriated about $153.7 million in state and federal funds.
Ongoing revenue resources are harder to come by than one-time money during the legislature’s budgeting process, so even though it’s a comparatively small amount to the state’s larger homeless services budget, the round-up program will still help. l
Aneight-lane track and new east-side bleachers for visiting teams are under construction at Hillcrest High, with an anticipated completion date of this July. The expansion from six to eight lanes will allow the high school to host invitational meets, said Scott Stucki, Hillcrest track and field head coach. The surface of the track will be standard asphalt with a post-tension base. The new bleachers will be aluminum; no changes are anticipated for the west (home) concrete bleachers, commonly referred to as the
Dawg Pound. The school’s lacrosse teams this spring will use the new Union Middle fields, but the teams also may play on the fields at Brighton and Jordan high schools. Hillcrest’s spring football practices also may be held on those same fields or possibly on Hillcrest’s soccer field. Canyons School District Business Administrator and Chief Financial Officer Leon Wilcox said the upgrade will cost $6 million. (Courtesy of Canyons School District) l
Utah launched a program to help fund homeless services. (Photo by Mihály Köles on Unsplash)
Remember in the Looney Tunes cartoons when Wile E. Coyote runs off the edge of a cliff and hangs suspended in midair before he realizes there’s no ground beneath his feet? That’s how I feel going into 2025.
The holidays offered a jolly buffer between the U.S. presidential election and the official transfer of power this month, but now I’m looking down at the canyon floor, holding up a sign that reads “Help!” and preparing myself for the plunge where I hit rock bottom. Then, as I’m lying in a coyote-shaped hole, an anvil will land on my head.
Historically, January in Utah is not for the faint-hearted with its frigid temperatures, smoggy inversions and lack of holidays that involve celebrating with pie. Nothing screams January like buying a pound of peppermint chocolate bark on clearance and scarfing it down while binge-watching “Bridgerton” in sweatpants.
But for those of us still reeling from the election, every batty presidential cabinet pick, each mention of mass deportations and every promise to roll back environmental regulations is another anvil to the head.
Peri Kinder Life and Laughter
“BEEP BEEP!”
I’m not a person who gets amped about “A new year!” and “A better me!” but my goal this month is to change my mindset. I need to put down the leftover Christmas candy, change out of my sweatpants and do what I can to bring about positive change.
Maybe I’ll make a vision board or start repeating daily affirmations. Perhaps I’ll exercise more, although the gym will be as crowded as Times Square for the next six weeks. I will definitely not observe Dry January.
I could learn how to use the tech I got for Christmas or take up a new language. Like Russian. I could try to enjoy winter activities and make an effort not to groan when someone suggests a winter hike or a sledding trip at the local park.
One way to change my mindset is to volunteer with organizations that support causes dear to my heart. Getting out of my
head and into the idea we can all make a difference could make this dreary month (or year) bearable.
I should also take a social media break because the algorithm on my feeds stokes the flames of my angst and frustration. Haha! Just kidding. I’m not giving up TikTok until the government rips the phone from my grasping fingers. That platform brings me instances of joy with its mischievous pets, hilarious cooking vids and comic relief.
Maybe taking up a new hobby could put me in an optimistic state of mind, but not crocheting because that’s ridiculously hard. Perhaps I could start ballroom dancing or interpretive cake decorating. It’s conceivable I have a hidden talent for base jumping or parkour. I guess we’ll never know.
Some readers have suggested I take a writing class. I guess I could look into that.
Chasing that elusive Road Runner, Wile E. Coyote faced catastrophes every day. His ACME explosives blew up in his face, he was smashed by boulders over and over, he fell off cliffs and spent thousands of dollars for Road Runner traps that inevitably went wrong. His rocket-powered unicycle experiment didn’t end well.
But every day, he showed up to try again, creating ingenious ways to catch the Road Runner. He never stopped believing one day he would succeed, that one day he wouldn’t be crushed. That’s where I am. I’m peeling myself off the boulder and starting over, never giving up hope that one person can change this world for the better.
