Millcreek Journal | March 2025 by The City Journals

City manager contract

Winder renewed for another three years

Special women’s section

Millcreek local brings awareness to heart disease

Skyline girls take home gold, boys bring home silver in state high school swimming

By Tom Haraldsen | t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com

It was all worth the wait for the Lady Eagles of Skyline High. After narrowly losing the state title to Olympus a year ago (by one point), the Eagles prevailed at this year’s USHAA 5A state swimming championships held at Brigham Young University on Valentine’s Day weekend.

The Lady Eagles scored 360 points to beat Olympus (348), relying on the final event of the competition, the 400-meter free relay. Skyline had a six-point lead over Olympus before that race, which the Eagles won by less than a second. The team of senior Bella Williams, sophomore Rory Sorenson, sophomore Shalya Zulcic and senior Jade Garstang took the race in a time of 3:31.08, a new 5A state record. Olympus was second at 3:31.85, which also eclipsed the previous state record. It was Garstang, who also won two individual titles in the 100 fly and 100 backstroke, who secured the victory with her anchor lap after Olympus had made up a two-second deficit in the third leg of the race.

“It was one of the most exciting races I’ve ever seen as a coach,” Skyline coach JP Hynes said. He said he anticipated it might come down to the final race between the two schools, and it did.

Skyline’s girls were helped immensely by their showing in the 500 freestyle, where four Eagles were among the top nine finishers. Sorenson was third, junior Keira Jameson was fifth, junior Ryli Jonart was eighth and sophomore Sady Jonart was ninth–big points for Skyline.

Though Skyline finished second as a team in the boys’ division to Olympus, the Eagles opened Saturday’s finals with a new state record in the 200 meter medley. The team of seniors Nash Hale, Yungpen Tao, Chase Johnson and Ben Goetsch won in a time of 1:31.74, breaking the record set by Olympus last year.

It was a great weekend for Skyline in the pools at BYU. Garstang took firsts in the 100 fly at 53.66 and 100 back at 53.63. The girls’ 200 freestyle team of senior Elaine Liu, junior Elsa Bringard, along with Sorenson and Zulcic, took home second in a time of 1:39.03. Liu also placed third in the 200 IM (2:07.27) and third in the 100 fly (57.27). Wil-

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liams was third in the 50 free at 24.75. Sorenson took third place in both the 200 free (1:56.44) and 500 free (5:13.49).

In addition to the boys state record in the 200 medley, other top three finishes for Skyline included Nash Hale with a second in the 200 IM (1:51.33) and 100 back (48.38); Goetsch with a second in the 50 free (21.30), Johnson with a first in the 500 free (4:40.09) and third in the 100 fly (50.72), and a second-place finish in the 400 free relay with the team of Goetsch, Nash Hale, Kai Hale and Johnson (3:07.52). Behind Skyline and Olympus in girls’ team scoring were Wasatch at 272, Highland at 175 and Timpview at 168. Olympus easily won the boys’ team title with 470 points, followed by Skyline at 283, Wasatch at 219, Brighton at 180 and Viewmont at 168. l

The Skyline girls swim team celebrate winning the final relay of the 5A state meet which officially earned them the state title. (Photo courtesy of JP Hynes)

Ladies Take the Lead with Experience, Passion and Purpose at CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospitals

“Ido this work for my father, for families like ours, and ultimately, for the glory of God,” said Martha Boutsikakis Gamble, Chief Nursing Ofﬁcer (CNO) at Holy Cross Hospital - West Valley and registered nurse for over 20 years.

For many, a career in healthcare is more of a calling - a decision made that was shaped by past experiences with loved ones, or even personal health scares of their own. This type of desire to care for others and passion to pursue a career in healthcare rings especially true for the ladies who are taking the lead at our CommonSpirit Health Holy Cross Hospitals in West Jordan and West Valley City.

Martha was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, to immigrant parents from Crete, Greece. While her parents spoke conversational English, her role as the eldest child often involved translating for them in settings where language wasn’t necessarily the barrier but rather, cultural understanding wasthis included translating at her dad’s appointments with his dietitian.

“When I was only about 11 or 12 years old, my father was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes,” said Martha. “It quickly became clear during his appointments that the meal recommendations we were receiving didn’t align with the food we grew up eating, nor did they consider the cultural context of our meals.”

In an attempt to adapt to the dietitian’s recommendations, the meals Martha and her family ate were repetitive… for nearly a decade.

“These early experiences fostered in me a calling—not only to serve but to advocate for

communities like mine, where language and culture can create unseen barriers to quality healthcare,” said Martha.

For Christine McSweeney, President of Holy Cross Hospitals - Jordan Valley and West Valley, her path to healthcare leadership began as a passion to explore the science behind nutrition and how to properly fuel our bodies.

“I’m a science nerd at heart,” said Christine. “I get excited about seeing people and myself thrive and improve through proper nutrition and care”

Christine’s career began at Banner Health in Arizona where she was a clinical dietitian. Over the course of 20 years, Christine climbed the ranks to eventually serve as Chief Operating Ofﬁcer of a large academic center in downtown Phoenix before she joined the CommonSpirit Health leadership team ﬁve years ago, stepping into her current President role in 2023.

“My experience here in Utah has been like no other. It is full of neighbors helping neighbors, strong family values, amazing outdoor beauty and a true haven for healthy lifestyles. This way of living and thinking really brings me back to my roots as a dietitian” said Christine. “In addition, it certainly doesn’t hurt that the people we have working for CommonSpirit in the Greater Salt Lake market are loyal, dedicated and lean into our mission with their values ﬁrst!”

Katie Flores, CNO at Holy Cross HospitalMountain Point and Interim CNO at Holy Cross Hospital - Jordan Valley, kicked off her healthcare

career in 2001 as a registered nurse - initially caring for patients at the bedside in Med/Surg and in the Emergency Department.

Over the years, Katie transitioned into leadership roles and has been serving as CNO for the last 10 years. A passionate caregiver, Katie’s background actually started with a dream to work in broadcast media… but that quickly changed.

“I realized early on that broadcast wasn’t the right ﬁt for me - I felt a lack of connection and fulﬁllment so I pursued a career that would allow me to make a meaningful impact on others,” said Katie. “After going through some personal life experiences that led me to seek healthcare myself, I decided to make a change. I went back to school to pursue a career in healthcare—one that I could feel passionate about every day and truly connect with on a deeper level.”

Though different backgrounds and experiences fuel this leadership team’s passion to do what they do every day, Christine shared that the common thread between them all is, “This team of women lead with strength, conﬁdence, curiosity, determination and heart…. it is present in everything we do and apparent in the quality of care our hospitals provide. I cannot wait to see all we continue to accomplish, together.”

At CommonSpirit Health, we make the healing presence of God known in our world by improving the health of the people we serve, especially those who are vulnerable, while we advance social justice for all.

Learn more about the services, care providers and missiondriven work of the Holy Cross hospitals and CommonSpirit Health at www.holycrossutah.org.

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Ross Romero takes oath of office for Salt Lake County Council

Former Democratic legislator Ross Romero takes seat for Salt Lake County Council District 4.

By Shaun Delliskave s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

InJanuary, Ross Romero was sworn in as the Salt Lake County Councilmember for District 4, marking a significant milestone as one of the first Latino (Carlos Moreno was also sworn in) to hold the position. District 4 spans much of the county’s east side, encompassing parts of Salt Lake City, South Salt Lake and Murray, as well as all of Holladay, Millcreek and Emigration Canyon.

Romero's journey into public service began with his education at the University of Utah, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science in 1993. He later attended the University of Michigan Law School, graduating in 1996 with a specialization in environmental and municipal law.

Following law school, Romero worked as a litigator at Jones Waldo, handling cases related to land use and municipal law. He then transitioned to Zions Bank as Vice President of Public Finance, where he played a key role in structuring bonds for infrastructure projects, including water conservation initiatives and public transit expansions. In 2020, he founded Inclusion Strategies, a consulting firm advising organizations such as Intermountain Healthcare and the Salt Lake Chamber on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) frameworks and policy compliance.

Romero told a 2024 DEI roundtable discussion hosted by Utah Business, “Progress requires listening to marginalized voices and finding common ground.”

Romero’s political career began in the Utah Legislature, where he served from 2005 to 2012. As a member of the House of Representatives (2005-06), he authored bills

to increase funding for ESL programs and expand Medicaid coverage for low-income families. He later served in the Utah State Senate (2006-12), where he sponsored the 2008 Clean Air Act amendments, tightening emissions standards for industrial polluters. He retired as Senate Democratic Leader.

During President Barack Obama’s second administration, Romero was appointed to the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars, where he evaluated educational excellence criteria and promoted STEM opportunities for minority students. He also served as a Democratic National Committee representative from 2020 until early 2024.

“Ross Romero is the embodiment of dedication and leadership,” Sindy M. Benavides, president and CEO of Latino Victory Fund said. “His deep understanding of local government and his commitment to environmental sustainability, affordable housing, and economic equity makes him an ideal candidate to serve Salt Lake County. We

proudly endorse his campaign and believe he will be an outstanding advocate for his community.”

In 2011, Romero was a candidate for Salt Lake County Mayor.

Beyond elected office, Romero has been deeply involved in community service. He has served on the YWCA Community Advisory Council, advising on policies to support domestic violence survivors and expand childcare access. As a board member of Hale Centre Theatre, he championed initiatives to make arts education accessible to underserved youth. His leadership extends to national organizations, including the National Association of Latino Elected & Appointed Officials (NALEO), the Utah Hospital Association, and the Institute for Diversity and Health Equity.

After the Utah legislature passed HB261 dismantling some DEI programs,

Romero posted on Instagram, “As your councilmember in Salt Lake County’s District 4, I will always advocate for practices that prioritize diversity, equity and inclusion to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to have a seat at every table.”

Romero outlined his views on development on the campaign website, “I promise to advocate for development that is both progressive and mindful of its impact on our community. This approach emphasizes responsible land use, environmental stewardship and collaboration with stakeholders to create developments that enhance our quality of life while preserving the unique character of our county.”

Residing in Holladay with his family, Romero volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah and mentors first-generation college students at the University of Utah. l

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Ross Romero (far left) was sworn in as councilmember for Salt Lake County District 4. (Photo courtesy of Salt Lake County)

Salt Lake County District 4 Councilmember Ross Romero.

Interfaith music concert unites voices with a message of inclusion

Several faiths were represented at the event held at Millcreek Common.

By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com

For the second year, the Interfaith Harmony Concert in Millcreek celebrated the variety of religions and faiths within the city. Held in the Public Market at Millcreek Common (1354 E. Chambers Ave.) the event was intended to promote unity, understanding and connection through the language of music.

Millcreek City Council Representative Silvia Catten serves on the city’s Interfaith Council. She said she enjoys the annual interfaith concert as it fosters dialogue and celebrates shared values and respect

“I had always had this vision of faiths coming together, and I always thought it was a very nice idea,” Catten said. “We have several people on our Interfaith Council that represent different faiths and churches, mainly within our community but also in the broader surrounding area. A lot of it is focused on service in our community and we have a lot of service opportunities throughout the year.”

The free concert featured performances from members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Congregation Kol Ami and the Salt Lake City Krishna Temple.

Gopinath Priay Das serves as a counselor at the Krishna Temple located in Millcreek at 965 E. 3370 South. He shared stories from Krishna’s teaching about finding happiness within and played a video from Holi, the color festival held at the Spanish Fork Krishna Temple, celebrating love, new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil.

“The lesson is we try to do so many things, materially, in terms of name, fame and many things but we miss the key of life to become happy,” Das said. “We have all these facilities to take care of the body but we’re forgetting the soul within. Happiness is not external. It’s internal.”

Kalli Clare, Kassidy Laine and Kandy Jayne make up Hinge Point, a contemporary Christian group focused on creating entertaining music with an uplifting message. They performed three songs during the event. Holladay resident Scott Johnson sang “Poor Wayfaring Stranger” and singer and songwriter Will T.B. presented a piece he composed. Kevin Flynn and Cody Robison performed “What a Wonderful World” as an instrumental duet, with saxophone and guitar.

“All faiths believe in love,” Flynn said. “I know that’s the core of my faith. I think for all faiths, the core of their beliefs is love and also gratitude. So I wanted to pick a song that would address those things.”

Congregation Kol Ami Cantor Adam Davis shared songs from the Jewish faith. Because the event was held on a Saturday night, Davis invited the attendees to participate in a ritual that ended Shabbat with wine, spices and a braided candle.

“This ceremony is called Havdalah, which means separation,” he said. “It’s the separation between what’s holy and what is every day. The candle is a multiwicked candle, woven together with the idea that from many we are woven together into one, into unity.”

Catten said she was blown away by the talented people in the area and their willingness to share their music. She was inspired by the messages presented by the performers and hopes the event continues to grow.

“I think interfaith might be something people think is not for them,” she said. “But it’s so nice to have an evening of music that is uplifting.”

“With all of these religions, we have an opportunity to be lights in the community,” said Clare. l

Saxophonist Kevin Flynn shares a rendition of “What a Wonderful World” during the interfaith concert in the Public Market at Millcreek Common. (Peri Kinder/City Journals)

Congregation Kol Ami Cantor Adam Davis performs songs from the Jewish faith during an interfaith event designed to connect the community through music. (Peri Kinder/City Journals)

Kandy Jayne, Kassidy Laine and Kalli Clare sing a contemporary Christian song during the Millcreek interfaith music event. (Peri Kinder/City Journals)

April is Parkinson’s awareness month.

By Collette Hayes c.hayes@mycityjournals.com

Whatcommon thread connects the lives of Brett Favre, Michael Clapier, Neil Diamond, Dan Gwin, Michael J. Fox and Linda Ronstadt? They are courageous artists and athletes who have confronted the challenges of Parkinson's disease (PD) with determination and resilience. Refusing to yield to the debilitating effects of the condition, they continue to inspire others to live life to the fullest, regardless of the obstacles.

A theater major in college, local resident Michael Clapier has enjoyed a diverse career as a dancer, stand-up comedian, and, for over 30 years, a wrestling coach. Even after receiving a PD diagnosis five years ago, a quick smile and a firm handshake remain trademarks of his outlook on life.

“My wife Linda and I have always walked together, and gradually we noticed a change,” Clapier said. “I slumped, shuffled, and could not stand straight. Soon friends were asking what was wrong. Not long after, I sat down with my doctor and asked, ‘Why am I so tired? I feel like I can’t move.’ She looked at me and said, ‘You might have Parkinson’s.' A conversation with a neurologist later confirmed it: ‘Yeah, you’ve got it.’"

After receiving medical advice from his doctor, Clapier began doing some research on his own about PD. He came across a conversation with Joanna Hamilton, Ph.D., ABPP-CN, of Advanced Neurobiological Health of Southern California, who indicated that movement might be a beneficial way of slowing the progression of the disease.

Clapier started thinking about his athletic and dance background and what could be done to fight back against his physical and mental deteriorating condition caused in part by a dopamine deficiency. Dopamine is a neurochemical transmitter that controls movement and emotion. In Parkinson's disease, the brain cells that produce dopamine are damaged. As the disease progresses, more cells die, and the brain produces less dopamine, leading to greater movement difficulties.

“Parkinson’s disease studies have found movement as beneficial as any of our pharmacological agents,” Clapier said. “From this information, I then asked myself this question: if there is no cure for PD and movement may slow its progression of the disease, how could I create an enjoyable way to gain movement? My life experience has trained me to find a better way to create a difference when faced with a challenge. As a dancer, athlete and entertainer, I understand how to condition, stretch and strengthen the muscles that move us. Reflecting on this, I recognized the great power of movement,

DanceBack Against Parkinson’s disease

and realized I could help both myself and others who are experiencing this condition."

Clapier decided to DanceBack Against Parkinson’s Disease instead of fight back. His mission statement includes helping as many people as possible improve muscle movement in a supportive environment. He envisioned meeting people at their level, focusing on large muscle movement, accelerating the heart rate, stretching, cross-hemisphere brain function movement and improving balance.

Recognizing the importance of physical activity, The Parkinson’s Foundation suggests a minimum of 2.5 hours of movement a week. To support this goal, The Dance Box Studio graciously opened its space for Clapier, where he now teaches dance twice weekly. Additionally, Clapier extends his DanceBack reach by visiting assisted living centers during the week to help residents achieve their movement goals. Through his consistent dedication, Clapier is making a difference in the lives of those affected by Parkinson's disease.

Former Utah Symphony cellist and bass player Dan Gwin has been living with Parkinson’s disease for 17 years. Gwin says lifting his cello bow to the strings has now become challenging. During a recent DanceBack class, the heavy beat of Keith Urban’s "Texas Time" flowed through the speakers; Clapier extended his hand to Gwin, helping him out of his wheelchair to provide support; Linda Clapier was soon by Gwin’s other side, helping to provide balance. Immediately, Gwin smiled and began to pick up the dance steps with little effort and in perfect rhythm to the country tune, “Come on let’s get back on Texas Time!”

“We strongly believe that our DanceBack program can help people with PD,” Linda Clapier said. “We can choose to cry or we can choose to laugh. Michael and I chose not to cry. While our dance program can not cure the disease, those who visit our studio and participate in our classes begin to experience the benefits of movement for symptoms and conditions such as depression, anxiety, physical limitations and feelings of isolation that many face as a result of the condition.”

Parkinson’s disease is rising in the U.S. Neurological disorders are now the leading source of disability worldwide, and PD is the fastest-growing neurological disorder. According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, nearly one million people in the U.S. are living with the condition. This number is expected to rise to 1.2 million by 2030.

Who has Parkinson’s disease? Each year, approximately 90,000 Americans are diagnosed with PD. The incidence of the condition increases with age; however, an estimated 4% of people are diagnosed before the age of 50.

How does Utah compare with the U.S.? In Utah, there are more than 6,500 individuals living with PD. In 2022, Utah had the highest rate of Parkinson's disease-related deaths per 100,000 people in the United States, as reported by the Parkinson’s Foundation.

In a recent conversation with Dr. Jumana Alshaikh, a neurologist and movement disorders specialist at the University of Utah Health Center, the high prevalence of PD in Utah is an interesting observation that is not fully understood yet. It is thought that the high prevalence of PD in Utah could be

caused by an interplay of genetic predisposition in combination with certain environmental factors and healthcare awareness and diagnosis.

Research suggests age, gender, genetics and environment play a role in developing the disease

Most people diagnosed with PD are around 60 years old, and men are 50% more likely to develop the condition than women. Former NFL player Brett Favre was diagnosed with PD in 2024 at age 54, attributing his condition to possibly suffering over 1,000 concussions during his 20-season career. Although medical opinions widely vary, a 2020 study published in Family Medicine and Community Health supports his theory, stating that a single concussion increases the risk of developing Parkinson's by 57%. Favre now advocates for football player safety.

Actor Michael J. Fox a well-known advocate for people with Parkinson's disease was diagnosed with the condition at age 29. He feels partying may have contributed to his Parkinson's disease diagnosis in 1991. Fox has made the statement; “Genetics loads the gun and environment pulls the trigger.”

Dale Heaps, a participant in DanceBack Against Parkinson’s Disease, believes that his career as a historical documentation specialist may have contributed to his PD from years of exposure to the chemicals on the adhesive tape that he was frequently exposed to during document restoration.

“We do think that environmental factors could play a role in the risk for developing PD,” Alshaikh said. “For many of those environmental factors that could be associated with a higher risk of PD we don’t have high quality evidence yet to directly blame that

environmental factor as the cause, since association does not necessarily mean causation. Also, many people are exposed to these same environmental factors and never get PD.”

Exercise has been found to be one of the most effective treatments for PD

“Although exercise is great for many reasons,” Alshaikh said, “exercise does not cure PD or reverse the brain damage that has already happened. Still, exercise is important for PD patients for the following reasons.

1. It can slow down the rate at which the disease is progressing in the brain.

2. It can train PD patients to make their movements faster and bigger.

3. It can improve the response to PD medications making them work better and feel more effective.

4. It can improve cognition and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

5. Exercise enhances mood and can help improve anxiety and depression.

6. Improved sleep quality, improved healthy gut movement.

7. Increased mobility and reduced pain related to muscle stiffness, helps keep bones strong.

8. Exercise reduces the risk of other health conditions such as diabetes, stroke, heart disease that could further negatively impact quality of life for patients with PD.

Prioritize a healthy lifestyle and positive outlook

According to Alshaikh, PD can manifest differently in each person. Symptoms, challenges and the rate of progression vary widely. Seeing someone with more advanced symptoms doesn’t necessarily predict one’s future, as each journey with PD is distinct. It’s important to focus on the

things you can control. Prioritize brain health, maintain an active lifestyle through regular exercise, and establish care with a neurologist experienced in treating PD.

Alshaikh said, “Remember, while PD may present challenges, there is power in focusing on what you can do today to improve your well-being and contribute to the larger fight against the disease.”

A call to action

April is Parkinson’s awareness month. Get involved by helping to make a difference for those living with Parkinson’s disease.

“You can contribute to the fight against PD by volunteering for research studies that advanced our understanding and treatment of the disease,” Alshaikh suggests. “Alternatively, you could support the community by donating time, resources or money or by sharing your story to raise awareness and inspire others.”

Development Manager for the Rocky Mountain Chapter of the Parkinson’s Foundation, Kristin Courington, invites everyone to participate in “Moving Day” Saturday, May 3 at Liberty Park. Moving Day is an inspiring and empowering annual fundraising walk event that unites people around the country living with PD, their care partners and loved ones to help beat PD. Moving Day is more than just a walk. It’s a celebration of movement – proven to help manage Parkinson’s symptoms.

Join Michael and Linda Clapier at The Dance Box Studio, 4707 S. Holladay Boulevard, to DanceBack against Parkinson’s disease. For more information about the class schedule, text Michael at 801-809-7264 or email him at clapiermichael@gmail.com.

Join the Parkinson’s Foundation for Moving Day Salt Lake City on May 3 at Liberty Park to walk in support of

the community. Activities will begin at 9 a.m. Vendors will be sharing their resources for the community, there will be exercise demonstrations, entertainment, food, prizes and the 1.5-mile walk around Liberty Park.

To make a donation to the Parkinson’s Foundation visit: www.movingDaySaltLakeCity.org.

For more information about the Parkinson’s Foundation contact Kristin Courington at kcourington@parkinsosn.org.

Sidney Heil, Parkinson’s Outreach Department of Neurology, University of Utah, is a resource for people who have recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Contact her at 801-585-2354. l

Millcreek renews contract with city manager

Mike Winder was originally appointed in 2021, his new contract will run through June 2028.

By Travis Barton travis.b@thecityjournals.com

Thirdtime’s the charm. Mike Winder recently renewed his contract as Millcreek’s City Manager for the third time with his newest contract running through June 2028.

Winder was originally appointed city manager in 2021 and his contract was amended in 2023 with its expiration coming the summer of this year.

The Millcreek City Council unanimously approved Winder’s new contract in January.

“I’m extremely satisfied with Mike Winder’s job as city manager,” Mayor Jeff Silvestrini said during the council meeting.

The mayor described Winder as “accountable, accessible” and having a “great relationship with staff.” He credited Winder for creating a positive and desirable culture in Millcreek where “people like to work.”

Councilmember Cheri Jackson added her appreciation for Winder.

“(I’m) grateful for the hours he puts in and the rapport he has with the city council and the city staff and I know he puts in long hours. We get texts and notices from him late into the weekends and evenings so he puts in

long hours,” she said. “I know he’s always thinking about Millcreek and looking out for us.”

Winder was effusive in his appreciation for the council’s decision and for Millcreek in general.

“It’s seriously the honor of a lifetime to be part of this community and to be in this role and know that I feel the weight of your trust and it’s a real weight in a positive way,” he told the council after the vote.

Winder’s new salary features a raise and will earn $250,000 a year. Silvestrini pointed out the city manager also wears the economic development director hat so while the salary is a raise, it’s commensurate with other cities.

“A little above the median,” the mayor said.

“That seems like a lot of money but there’s incredible responsibility attached to this job,” he continued, noting they’d be paying another $120-150,000 to hire a separate person for the economic development position.

“It’s a good idea for the city to have somebody like Mike wearing two hats,” Silvestrini said.

The mayor further credited Winder for his “fantastic” work with the city’s economic development supporting businesses in the city and developing the bustling Millcreek Common. He said they are reeling in a Porsche dealership, which will contribute “hundreds

of thousands” annually to the city’s sales tax. Winder, whose contract was approved on his birthday, was quick to highlight his staff, the residents and city stakeholders.

“I do love this city and love what we’re doing as a team and being part of this amazing team we’ve assembled,” he said. “Thank you, thank you, for that vote of confidence and support today, it means a lot.” l

Michael Clapier, dancing with Ann Eldredge, extends his DanceBack program reach by visiting assisted living centers during the week to help residents achieve their movement goals. (Photo courtesy Linda Clapier)

Mike Winder stands on the Pioneer Crossing Bridge in West Valley City in 2018. Winder has been a mayor, a state representative, economic development director and recently renewed his contract to be Millcreek’s city manager. (File photo City Journals)

Carol Brown among local artists showcased at Art Market

The Art Market at Millcreek Common last month was filled with paintings and photographs as local artists shared and sold their creations to the community.

By Jolene Croasmun j.croasmun@mycityjournals.com

Art Market at Millcreek Common was held in February and featured works by local artists of various mediums. It was an opportunity to showcase the work of professional and emerging Utah artists and allow the community to view works of art and acquire them.

Local artist Caryl A. Brown had her scenic artwork at the market. Brown says she is an artist and teaching artist and gets her inspiration from traveling. “My art has been influenced by my passion for travel. I speak four languages, and it’s a joy to connect with people.”

Brown says she uses watercolor because it is a “fabulous medium to capture light.”

“I was once in the Teton National Park and riding my mountain bike in this meadow and I saw this wild bird doing this weird dance and then I saw an antelope and a buffalo and so completely overwhelmed by the beauty of it and it was right then and there, a voice spoke to me and said, ‘This your quest, to seek beauty and share it with the world,’” Brown said.

“Sometimes we create art to process grief. The power of the natural world has been a constant source of inspiration to me as well as a road to healing and a path to emotional peace. The sharing of beauty may touch another person in a profound way or maybe it’s just a gift we offer,” added Brown.

“When I am not skiing, painting or traveling, I enjoy my role as a teaching artist supporting and nurturing creative growth and self confidence in young people,” Brown said. Visit Brown’s website www.carylabrownart.com for more information on her paintings.

Yong Hui No was one of the featured local artists. “I immigrated from South Korea. I love photography and I take photos while I travel and whatever inspires me I try to paint them,” Hui No said.

“I work full time and this is kind of a hobby or my passion. I just always wanted to be an artist when growing up back in Korea as a child. I was into art and Korean folk dancing, a girls choir and a band. I wanted to be a fine artist. I studied fine art at the University of Utah. I do original paintings and then get them professionally scanned as giclée prints,” Hui No said.

“I want to bring joy to the people that is why I paint,” Hui No said. While at the Art Market a family with a little girl reached out to her and told her that their daughter loved the rose watercolor Hui No painted. “Her name is Rose and she wanted to buy that painting so they purchased it for her and this just brightened my day,” Hui No said. “What an opportunity to share your gift with the community.”

“Art is your expression of your gift. You put it on canvas and color all comes together and seeing the subject come to life, it fascinates me and that is why I paint,” Hui No said. Her website is www.yongsArt.com.

“Smokey Reflections” is a work of art painted by Alissa Landefeld. The artist was inspired by “The Queen’s Gambit” show on Netflix. “I was trying to figure out what career I should pursue,” Landefeld said. “There is a scene from the show that really resonated with me on how I was feeling in my life at the time,” said Landefeld as the character in the show reflects on her life as a professional chess player. Landefeld paints with oils and loves to use bright, vi-

brant colors. Her works are described as folk art and contemporary realism. Landefeld resides in Provo, has a degree in biology and is now an artist and passionate about what she is doing. More information can be found @ludoliss.art.

Artist Nuha Moretz said, “I do nature inspired art and sometimes I go to abstract. I use acrylic, and I use a lot of textures to create. I use earth materials as much as possible like newspaper, sawdust, sand, plaster, crushed leaves.”

Moretz says by recycling or repurposing things it is an “affordable way to create art and less waste in the environment.”

Moretz creates contemporary artwork that balances emotions and the love of nature. Moretz’s website www.nuhamoretz.com.

Thomas Embley’s oil paintings stood out with scenes from the streets of Salt Lake City along with images you might find in a local bar.

“The liquor bottle painting series is primarily because I love painting the reflection of light on glass, and I think they are gorgeous hanging above business or home bars or mantels. Using fun whiskeys as the subject guarantees that the pieces will find a home with a buyer with great taste in art and spirits,” Embley said lightheartedly.

Embley was an attorney but now a full-time artist. “There are plenty of lawyers making a positive impact with their practices, but ultimately that field wasn’t for me, and I traded it to pursue my passion for painting and spending time with my wife,” Embley said and added that it was the best decision he ever made.

To see Embley’s art visit ThomasEmbleyArt.com. l

“Watermelon Sugar,” a Utah-inspired painting by artist Alissa Landefeld. “The painting is supposed to be a little sensual without being overly sexualized,” Landefeld said. (Photo courtesy John Strater Brown)

Contemporary folk art by Provo artist Alissa Landefeld at the Art Market. (Photo courtesy John Strater Brown)

Watercolor painting called “Noatak Reflections” by local teaching artist Caryl A. Brown. (Photo courtesy John Strater Brown)

Yong Hui No’s art work turned into prints on notecards that were for sale at the Art Market. (Jolene Croasmun/City Journals)

Climbing gym reaches new heights with Super Bowl ad

Momentum Climbing was selected by Google to be featured in a campaign for AI services.

By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com

It was a bit surreal for Eliza Keegan to see an ad for Momentum Climbing Gym air during the Super Bowl. While Momentum has been a cornerstone of the climbing community in Utah since 2006, when Google invited her to participate in a small-business campaign, the Momentum CEO thought she was being scammed.

“This was way too good to be true,” Keegan said. “We did all the necessary steps, filling out NDAs, coordinating everything with the Google team, and even up until the day we filmed the commercial, we were like, we’re getting scammed. And then a full team of directors and crew showed up.”

Google chose to feature Momentum as an example of how businesses have found ways to use AI to maximize the impact they have within the business and in the sports community. The campaign featured 50 customer stories, from all 50 states, with ads running during the big game.

The commercial was filmed at Momentum Climbing Gym in Millcreek (3173 E. 3300 South) on a snowy day that encouraged indoor activities. Keegan said the gym was packed

with climbers of all ages and abilities.

“The Google team came in and got to film a real, true, busy day at one of our climbing gyms here in Salt Lake City,” she said. “There were families…there were lots of kids running around and they got to capture a real picture of who Momentum is and what it’s like inside one of our gyms.”

Google’s “50 Stories, 50 States” campaign ran local ads during the Super Bowl, highlighting the influence of AI on small businesses. The local spots featured small businesses and nonprofits that use Google Workspace with Gemini.

“We wanted to show what’s possible with AI in Workspace today, and how real businesses are using it,” said Harris Beber, global marketing leader for Workspace. “What better way to show the unexpected ways AI helps real businesses in America than to let them share their stories?”

Keegan said they use Google Suite products at Momentum and recently implemented the Gemini AI feature to help summarize documents, edit emails and streamline communication with their gyms across Utah, Washington and Texas.

Keegan said rock climbing has always been popular in the state and interest continues to grow. Along with the Millcreek location, Momentum has additional gyms in Sandy, Midvale and Lehi.

“Salt Lake City is a kind of historical mecca for rock climbing,” she said. “There is incredible access to outdoor climbing here, and so this climbing community and culture really blossomed…Salt Lake is unique in that it probably has one of the highest densities of climbing gyms per capita in the country. This population can support that because so many people are familiar with rock climbing.”

Since the commercial aired on Feb. 9, Keegan has had industry partners reach out

to offer congratulations. She’s received good feedback as Google pushed the ad on its social media platforms and she hopes it encourages more people to give climbing a try. For more information, visit Momentumclimbing.com.

“Climbing is for everyone. Everybody can benefit from rock climbing,” Keegan said. “It’s a very social sport. Climbing is unique and special in its own way, because it’s great for all ages…We have 70 year olds who rock climb because it’s very low-impact.” l

Momentum Climbing Gym in Millcreek was featured in a Google ad during the Super Bowl. The campaign featured small businesses across the country using Google’s Gemini AI. (Photo courtesy of Eliza Keegan)

Awards for excellence given out to Utah Black Entrepreneurs in Mardi Gras-themed ball

“Laissez les bons temps rouler” which means, let the good times roll, as the Utah Black Chamber of Commerce hosted the third annual Black Excellence in Business Awards at Millcreek Common with a Mardi Gras style.

By Jolene Croasmun j.croasmun@mycityjournals.com

Mardi Gras might be in New Orleans, but its style was evident locally in February as the Millcreek Common hosted the third annual Black Excellence in Business Awards.

“This is our annual fundraiser that we started in 2022,” said Dr. Sidni Shorter, president and CEO of the Utah Black Chamber of Commerce.

Several awards in multiple categories were given out including the 2025 Black Business of the Year award which went to Parfé’ Diem Pudding Parfaits. The Black Excellence in Business Awards recognizes the talents and contributions of Utah Black businesses and the corporate partners. The event featured award winners sharing stories of their work and impact on the community.

“Every nominee and winner represents the strength and resilience of our community. Together, we are driving change and making a difference,” Shorter said.

One of those businesses is NWPR Consulting, owned by Nikki Walker who noted the awards and parade on ice to invoke the Mardi Gras theme.

After the awards, they celebrated with catering from the Taste of Louisiana and a brass band from the state as well.

“We do our annual business of the year awards and we also award corporate partners,” said Shorter, who is originally from Louisiana. “This is about economics and we are doing a great job of having great collaborative efforts that move the economic needle, so we recognize not just our small businesses but our corporate partners as well.” l

President of Zions Bank, Paul Burdiss, actress Malinda Williams and Utah Black Chamber of Commerce board member Scott Anderson at the Black Excellence Business Awards gala. (Bella Vita Images)

John Robertson from Millcreek is dressed like a king for the Mardi Gras party. (Photo courtesy John Strater Brown)

Nikki Walker of NWPR Consulting assists with the media coverage of the Utah Black Chamber banquet. (Photo courtesy John Strater Brown)

Dr. Sidni Shorter, president and CEO of the Black Chamber of Commerce sparkling and ready for the awards ceremony. (Photo courtesy John Strater Brown)

Joseph Richardson and Aaron Green of Delta Airlines attended Utah Black Chamber awards banquet in Millcreek. (Photo courtesy John Strater Brown)

How hollowing the federal workforce affects the Wasatch-Cache National Forest

The bathrooms, trails and fire pits could all suffer from lack of service personnel cleaning and maintaining them.

By Genevieve Vahl g.vahl@mycityjournals.com

Compounding the federal hiring freeze from Congress in 2024, the new presidential administration is now offering a differed resignation and severance offering until September for all federal employees. For the Wasatch-Cache National Forest – the most visited forest in the country, reaching the volume of the three busiest national parks combined in a year – that looks like no seasonal workers and no job postings for permanence. It will leave crews hollowed out to a third or even a quarter of their original size to care for the forests that span from Farmington to Sandy and all the way west past Stansbury Park.

“What that looks like for the Wasatch is crazy because every part of the land that a person interacts with in the forest, is managed and looked after by a federal employee, by a forest service person,” said a recent resignee from the Forest Service who wished to remain anonymous as the Forest Service asked employees not to speak to the press. “This means there are so many fewer people

looking after the land.”

No seasonal workers means a labor deficit, leaving human interactions and the spontaneity of nature to their own devices.

“Trails go through all of the seasons,” the resignee said. “We build drainages where rocks guide water off the trail. Those drainages get dug out every season so the trails can drain properly and not get eroded by turning into a stream.”

Drainages get dug out by seasonal workers. “The trail crew this coming season is going to be sometimes less than half of the people. That is for every trail from the top to the bottom, from Farmington to Sandy. And the Stansburys. Because no seasonals will be there,” the resignee said. “Seasonals do so much of the front facing part of taking care of the forest. They do all of the physical work. So many people are going to be using this space and no one to take care of it.”

And that is just one thing.

“In Millcreek, everything down to the signs, the parking lots, the bathrooms, the dog boxes, the trails, everything in that canyon is managed by us. There are 42 bathrooms that a contractor cleans twice a week, otherwise we are cleaning them basically every day. Replacing toilet paper or literally getting poo off the toilet,” the resignee said. “All of the dog boxes in the canyon have to get changed every one to two days, otherwise they are

overflowing. All of the firepits have to get dug out because those will overflow too.”

An impossible amount of work with no one to do the job.

“There is so much maintenance,” the resignee said. “But that is what the seasonals do, is maintain those spaces.”

It is then left up to the highly skilled veterans of the forest service, the career foresters left with a job, to be cleaning bathrooms instead of working on bigger picture projects that keep the health and livelihood of the forest and human interactions with it healthy and safe.

“When you have sufficient crews, you’re able to go past just the maintenance portions and can work on projects and actually improve things,” the resignee said. “The Forest Service has so many uniquely skilled people in making natural improvements. But because we are so understaffed already, everyone gets so bogged down by this maintenance that to me, it’s a waste of really talented, skilled people.”

There was a worker who had been working for the forest for 11 seasons. But because they were a seasonal worker, and a professor during the other half of the year, they will no longer have a job with the forest service.

“They are so skilled and exactly the type of person the forest needs and the forest is so lucky to have that person too. They have

cared for the forest every season, but that’s the thing, they do seasons. None of those people can come back.”

If it’s not a federal worker, then who? The human footprint and the spontaneity of the natural world will haunt the ghost crews as the snow melts.

“Half our job is to look after the land, to make sure the ways people are recreating and happenings on the land is not hurting the environment,” the resignee said. “If no one is out there, people abuse the land naturally, it’s going to be our public land that is being damaged. The land is losing, the people recreating are losing.”

Every year people are recreating more than ever, but with fewer people caring for the land. Since this is handled federally, the resignee says it is not based on the community’s wants or needs.

“In any mountain town, the town relies on the mountains and the health of the mountains. Specifically for Salt Lake, we get our water from those canyons,” the resignee said.

“We cannot be having overflowing dog poo in our waters. Or people swimming and disturbing the riverbeds.”

“The only people monitoring are the rangers and they’re only going to be one to five people of the original 10–12-person crew now. They have to go to Big and Little and then monitor the every-other-dog-day and bike day in Millcreek. We can all agree a little disturbance is OK, but the volume at which people visit the tri-canyons has to be regulated. That is our drinking water. The health of that water is the health of our city.”

Seasonals, the proletariat of our eco-futures, also patrolled on high-volume weekend days to make sure the land has a voice and people advocating for it.

“There are boots on the ground in the Wasatch every day of the year, for all hours in some places. It is so used, year round, in such extreme conditions, the Wasatch is pounded by a lot of people.”

The hollowing of federal workers looks like, for the Wasatch Front, overflowing dog boxes in Millcreek, no toilet paper and fire pits full of billowing ash.

“And trash. And graffiti. That is all going to the wayside,” the resignee said. “What is it going to look like to go on a trail for the first 100 feet with a bunch of graffiti everywhere? It doesn’t feel like you’re out in the wilderness. Ultimately, it’s sad because it’s our federal land, it will naturally get trashed, and even dangerous, when it’s not kept up.”

There are partners with the forest who equally bring care and advocacy.

“Salt Lake and the Wasatch are really lucky to have a lot of partners that do a lot of work as well,” the resignee said. “Cottonwood Canyon Foundation, The Climbers Alliance,” Save Our Canyons, Friends of Alta, Wasatch Mountain Club, Salt Lake County, Central Wasatch Commission, town of Brighton all take volunteers. l

Granite unified basketball teams foster friendship and fun on the court

High school athletes with and without disabilities team up, creating opportunities for teamwork and camaraderie.

By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Forbasketball enthusiasts, it’s an ideal setting. At any moment, two competitive games are taking place on one of three courts.

But these aren’t just any high school games.

These are unified basketball teams, where students with and without intellectual disabilities play side by side. This approach, based on the belief that practicing and playing together encourages friendship and understanding, is advocated by Boston Iacobazzi, the Special Olympics Utah college-growth coordinator for unified champion schools.

The program has gained significant popularity in recent years, now with more than 200 high school coed unified basketball teams. Districts like Granite have supported the creation of tournaments, giving students more opportunities to play.

Cottonwood High player Nico Steven Gagliarei Campos had just finished his game and was watching a match between Cyprus and Skyline high schools. On another courts, Taylorsville squared up against Olympus.

“I love playing basketball and spending time with my teammates,” he said. “I enjoy sharing the ball and giving high-fives. My teammates and I support each other, and we always show respect. Sportsmanship is about the game of basketball and connecting with everyone.”

The sophomore learned the game from his dad and uncle.

“I love the game so much that I practice for two or three hours every single day, even though our team practices 30 minutes every other day. I focus on dribbling, rebounding, boxing out opponents and shooting around,” he said. “I’m always ready for a game.”

His teammate, Cottonwood sophomore Kennedi Hazzard, values the relationships built through basketball.

“I love helping others and meeting new people,” she said. “Basketball feels like a family. You make so many friends, and it’s so much fun. You get to hang out with them all day.”

Granger head football coach Pete Smolin was in another gym, cheering for the players.

“Most of these students are in unified PE; that is an awesome class,” he said. “We’ve been practicing basketball in the winter, soccer in the fall and track in the spring to prepare them for the unified sports seasons. brought six of my football players to join 22 unified kids on two teams. It’s a powerful experience to see people of all abilities working together.”

Through the unified model, Smolin believes everyone benefits, learning from one another.

“In our football program, we focus a lot on character and leadership development, and

we also do a lot of community service, like this, about 100 hours every year. It helps develop the entire student-athlete,” he added.

Granger junior Ifo Pili, one of the football players, values his time on the court.

“This is a really great experience, and I’ve learned to have a lot of patience,” he said. “These guys are always upbeat, always have a smile on their faces. They have selfless joy, no matter the circumstances. We helped them learn the basic skills, but for them, it’s about enjoying the game and being part of a team that represents our school.”

Watching his school play Hunter High, Kearns High senior Mario Rivera admits he was initially hesitant about participating.

“At first, I was scared. I didn’t know how to help or teach these kids, or what to expect,” he said. “But once I came, I realized they’re just like me and everyone else. I just needed to talk to them and get to know them. I’ve helped in our unified PE class and as a peer tutor, and I have joined them during lunch. I give them high-fives in the hallways. Unified sports is a perfect fit because I love sports and enjoy working with kids. Seeing them smile and become friends is the best.”

Kearns High’s Special Education teacher Natalie Nelson has witnessed the friendships

the kids, both with and without special needs,” she said. “They’re learning how to interact with each other, and those friendships often extend outside the classroom, with kids socializing in the hallways or eating lunch together. For parents, it’s an incredible experience to watch their kids participate in sports for the first time. There’s so much pride when they hear the crowd

tance—so many positive outcomes.”

For Kearns junior Noah Williams, the boost in confidence is clear.

“I’ve made 40 baskets,” he said. “I like winning.”

Unified teams from the Granite School District will compete in the regional tournament the week of March 10, with the state uni

Cyprus puts in a shot against Skyline during a unified basketball game. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

SECTION

A publication covering local influential women in honor of International Women’s Day

Kelly Bush leads Kearns through cityhood and community growth

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

From an Army air base during WWII to one of Salt Lake County’s newest cities, Kearns has a history of pride, diversity and community. Kearns Mayor Kelly Bush has led the charge in getting respect and recognition for the nearly 38,000 residents who call Kearns home.

It’s no easy task to build a government entity from scratch, but that’s exactly what Bush has done over the last few years, taking Kearns from a metro township in 2015 to a city in May 2024. She served in several leadership roles in the community before being appointed mayor in 2018.

“We were coming out of a time when nobody had voices. A lot of these communities had been neglected,” Bush said. “Our roads were run down, we had poor lighting. People were pretty frustrated that a lot of things were not happening. They didn’t feel like they had a voice.”

The elected officials in Kearns, and other unincorporated areas in Salt Lake County, believed they would be the voice for their residents to County officials. It was only after the first meeting with the County that leaders in those areas learned they were supposed to create their own legislative bodies.

“Honestly, I think at the time that not one person in the County expected this, for any of us to come as far as we had,” she said. “We were never set up to succeed and, to be honest, I never thought we would…We were relentless fighters and dreamers and knew what these communities wanted and what we needed. We were going to succeed and we built a government from the ground up.”

For years, cities surrounding Kearns had slowly eroded the area’s tax base. West Valley City, West Jordan and Taylorsville had cherry-picked commercial areas to incorporate, leaving Kearns with more than 37,000 residents and a limited tax base.

Discussions were held about being absorbed into one of the surrounding cities, but no city wanted to take on the additional expense of nearly 38,000 residents. Bush and her team had to make it work. By applying for federal monies and grants, Bush was able to secure millions of dollars for improvements in the city, including a recent road project that overhauled 6200 South.

“I would hope the one thing that I’ve done that would make the most difference is giving these people a voice,” she said. “They can get mad or they can love it but they should expect honesty from whoever represents them.”

Bush grew up in Millcreek, graduating from Skyline High School. She moved to Kearns after she got married to raise her family. She rejects the perception that Kearns is a dangerous city, saying it’s no more dangerous than any other city in the Salt Lake Valley.

She feels privileged to represent such a diverse community that includes Somalian, Vietnamese, Hispanic and Latino cultures, and many others.

“My kids had so many different types of experiences,” she said. “They experienced all the different cultures their friends had and there were so many different cultures. They got to go to different parties. They got to go to different churches. They got to go over and eat the different foods and they were always invited to all these super cool celebrations. It was so much fun because we made so many different types of friends.

That was not something I experienced on the east side.”

Kearns City Councilmember Crystal Butterfield has worked with Bush since 2020. Butterfield credits the mayor with getting the Oquirrh Shadows Unified Fire Authority Fire Station No. 107 reopened, improving roads and lighting conditions, staying on top of legislation that affects Kearns and keeping the city afloat through numerous grant opportunities.

“She has been instrumental in getting the things that we need and working behind the scenes with a lot of stuff I don’t even see,” Butterfield said. “She has been instrumental in making sure that we get grants and funding so we have extra resources. I’m just amazed at how many grants she can pull in.”

Bush is not running for re-election

this year but hopes to be hired as the Kearns city manager in 2026. She is proud to represent a diverse community with a small-town feel and to dedicate her time to connecting to residents who feel like family to her.

When the locally-owned La Placita Market burned down in January, the Kearns community rallied to support one of their own. Bush said that’s just the way things are done in the city.

“Our community will celebrate with each other and mourn with each other,” she said. “They stick together. They are there for each other no matter what and you better never mess with them. They are K-Town all the way.”

Mayor Bush will not run for reelection but hopes to work as the Kearns city manager in 2026

Kelly Bush spends time with firefighters from the United Fire Authority. As the mayor of Kearns, Bush worked to reopen the Oquirrh Shadows Fire Station #107 on 5600 West. (Photo courtesy of Kelly Bush)

Artist and heart attack survivor helps raise awareness of heart disease in women

By Jolene Croasmun | j.croasmun@mycityjournals.com

Go Red for Women Day was kicked off at Intermountain Medical Center with cardiologists bringing awareness to women’s No. 1 killer which is heart disease and an unveiling of the artwork from a female heart attack survivor.

February was heart health month and the first Friday of the month was Go Red for Women Day. Intermountain Health held an event and unveiled a heart attack survivor’s artwork to raise awareness about heart disease in women which claims the lives of more women annually than all cancers combined.

Dr. Amanda Donohue, a cardiologist with Intermountain Health said, “We partnered with the American Heart Association to get the word out about Go Red for Women Day. Our main goal is to create awareness around the cardiovascular risk that all women face. One in three women will pass away from a cardiovascular complication this year.”

Donohue talked about modifiable risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Go Red for Women Day is being used to “shed some light on the lesser known ones like autoimmune disorders, chronic kidney disease, gestational disorders of pregnancy and long-term use of hormone replacement therapy,” Donohue said.

“We want to empower women to take charge of their cardiovascular health. It is important at any age and any stage in life,” added Donohue.

Kimberleigh Collins-Peynaud is an artist and heart attack survivor and her artwork was on display at Intermountain Medical Center. She found comfort and healing through painting after her heart attack and hopes it will help others.

“I had a heart attack in November of 2023. A widowmaker heart attack and that means the left interior descending artery was 90% blocked,” Collins-Peynaud said. “The American Heart Association says that only 12% of widowmaker heart attack survivors survive outside of the hospital.”

Collins-Peynaud was 44, in good health and exercised regularly when she had her heart attack. Her family did have some history of heart disease. “When you feel healthy and relatively young and haven’t been warned of any risks, it just comes out of nowhere. I was walking around with a blocked artery and didn’t even know it.”

“I woke up on Saturday morning, went up for breakfast and my left arm started hurting to the bone and felt like there was pain radiating out of it. I tried to massage it like it was a cramp but that did nothing. That’s when I started thinking, ‘oh this is unfamiliar, this is weird’ and I told my husband I needed

Heart attack survivor Kimberleigh Collins-Peynaud holds a stent that is similar to the one that was placed in her artery after her heart attack. (Jolene Croasmun/City Journals)

to go lay down on the bed and as soon as I

This painting is a combination of the images of Kimberleigh Collins-Peynaud’s blocked arteries and her image in her mind of her heart attack. It is titled “My Widowmaker.” (Jolene Croasmun/City Journals)

did that my whole back felt exactly like the left arm,” Collins-Peynaud said.

“The final symptom felt like someone standing on my sternum and that lasted about 15 minutes and I Googled the symptoms, and I thought there is no way that I am having a heart attack and it appeared on my screen that those are typical symptoms of a heart attack. But I decided that if it happens again I will call the doctor,” Collins-Peynaud added.

Collins-Peynaud tried yoga but things

“Still Healing” is one of three paintings in a series that artist Kimberleigh Collins-Peynaud painted after her heart attack that has helped her process and understand the changes going on inside of her body (Jolene Croasmun/City Journals)

did not improve and by 5 p.m. that day she decided to go to Instacare. “They took an EKG and immediately sent me to the hospital by ambulance," Collins-Peynaud said. “I was scared.”

For Collins-Peynaud art helped her heal. “I used art to get better. I needed a way to process the shock of what happened to deal with death and why I was lucky to survive.”

Speaking about her gouache painting called “Why,” Collins-Peynaud explained, “The 12% for example is just a number but I needed to see what that looks like. What does 12% of the population surviving look like?” Only 12% of widowmaker heart attack victims survive.

“There is one drawing which is a pencil drawing of the three symptoms. First my left arm, then my whole back, then the pain on my sternum. I felt that would be very helpful to add to the series because it is a way to connect to other women and people to show that here are three images of what it felt like. So if you feel like this you’ll know to go act faster than I did. Or if a friend or family member says, ‘I have this pain, and I don’t understand it’ hopefully it will get someone to react and say, ‘I saw this image, you should go get this checked out,’” Collins-Peynaud said.

“My symptoms are typical of men’s symptoms. We are all different and they can vary. The more the public can see how different it can be the better it is,” said Collins-Peynaud.

“I created the series called ‘Heartwork’

and the prints are for sale through my website, www.heartwork-art.weebly.com. I will donate a portion of the proceeds to the foundation for the beginning of this women’s heart center,” Collins-Peynaud said. “I have been working with the team here at Intermountain to help get out the word of women’s heart health.”

Dr. Kent Meredith, a cardiologist with Intermountain Health spoke at the event. “We have learned that when women have a heart attack it is often completely different. It is very common in women to experience a totally different set of symptoms.”

“It is not a pain or pressure but it’s more like burning or discomfort. Some female patients will say, ‘I don’t feel well or I feel weak, tired or have an upset stomach.’ I have heard that 1,000 times in my 25 years of cardiology,” Meredith said and added that many patients think they have stomach flu.

“We consider any symptom between the nose and navel as being a potential heart attack symptom especially in women," Meredith added. “We encourage you to learn and share with the women in your life.”

Collins-Peynaud’s life was saved by the cardiologists at Intermountain Medical Center and she had a stent placed in her arteries. She now makes the most of each day. “Do something that makes you feel good for yourself. Do something useful,” Collins-Peynaud said. She hopes that her artwork will help others recognize the symptoms of a heart attack and possibly save a life.

Six Skyline wrestlers advance to state 5A championships

State wrestling championships were held at UVU in Orem with wrestlers from Skyline High among the competitors.

By Tom Haraldsen t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com

ix Skyline High wrestlers advanced to this year’s UHSAA 5A state championships, held at Utah Valley University in Orem. Junior Seth Hall placed sixth in his division as the only Eagles’ medalist.

In the boys division, Hall, wrestling in the 126-pound division, beat Ryan Christensen of Wasatch in the opening round, then fell to Ryan Winward of Box Elder. That put him into the consolation bracket, where he defeated Warren Christensen of Maple Mountain and Diego Ortiz of Hunter to make into the third sixth-place final. There, he lost to Scotty Keller of Bountiful but earned his sixth-place finish.

One other Eagle moved past the sec -

ond round, as sophomore Xavier Dew went 1-2 at 120 pounds to pick up some points for Skyline. The Eagles finished 24th as a team. Two other Skyline wrestlers qualified for the tournament–freshman Ethan Gay at 103 and sophomore Adam Bhatia at 285. They lost both of their first two matches.

In the girls’ wrestling, freshman Olivia Hall beat Bonneville’s Corrine Hendriks by fall at 1:13 in the first round in the 105-pound division. She lost to Kallie Doverspike of Bonneville by fall at 5:35, then beat Parker Peterson of Cedar Valley by fall at 1:01. That moved her into the consolation semi with Madisen Murray of Box Elder, who defeated Hall by a score of 6-0.

At 145, senior Melody Kirby beat Brooklyn Deim of Wasatch 5-3, lost to Rhya Bainforth of Cedar Valley by major decision at 10-2, beat Hailey Fox of West Jordan by fall at 0:51, then lost by major decision 17-3 to Blanch Cluff of Wasatch.

The Eagles finished 25th as a team. l

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UPCOMING EVENTS:

3/13/25 Thursday @ 12 PM

Larkin Sunset Lawn: 2350 E 1300 S, SLC, 84108

3/18/25 Tuesday @ 12 PM & 6 PM

The Chateau at Le Jardin: 1910 E Dimple Dell Rd, Sandy

3/26/25 Wednesday @ 12 PM

Elysium Legal: 1802 W South Jordan Pkwy, South Jordan

3/27/25 Wednesday @ 12 PM

Elysium Legal: 1802 W South Jordan Pkwy, South Jordan

We often talk about infamous warriors like Harriet Tubman, Susan B. Anthony, Amelia Earhart, and justice OG Ruth Bader Ginsburg, but so many women have left their mark on this world without acclaim, awards or national days.

President Trump’s executive order mandates a pause on federal events promoting diversity, including Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Pride Month and Holocaust Remembrance Day. But I’m not a federal employee and refuse to follow his directive. Happy Women’s History Month!

Throughout the ages, women are described as the gentler sex, the homemakers and the caretakers. And, yes, women are given those roles. But women are also fierce queens, savage muses, legendary goddesses and wild forces of nature.

We often talk about infamous warriors like Harriet Tubman, Susan B. Anthony and Supreme Court Justice (and original-gangster) Ruth Bader Ginsburg, but so many women have left their mark on this world without acclaim, awards or national days.

Women like Mrs. Strange who made storytime at the Murray Library a magical experience. Her rendition of “The Three Billy Goats Gruff” was an Oscar-worthy perfor-

Peri Kinder Life and Laughter

A Woman’s Work

mance. When the biggest billy goat knocked the mean, ugly troll off the bridge, we all cheered in triumph.

Or women like Frankie Whipple, my long-suffering, patient, eternally-frustrated piano teacher. She listened to my musical scales, arpeggios and recital pieces without visibly wincing. Usually. The only annoyance she displayed was when I didn’t do my music theory lesson for five years straight.

Mrs. Lambert taught my second grade class at Viewmont Elementary. Under her guidance, I went from reading to show off to reading for pleasure. She taught me poetry, art and a life-lesson about friendship. Plus, she wore hip,‘70s polyester pantsuits that looked amazing.

Grandma Brickey was a fearless powerhouse. She loved her grandkids without judgement and let us eat all her chocolate raisin cake. Widowed for decades, she had many boyfriends but refused to give up her independence. She was a dancing queen, a

vivacious flirt and a woman who lived life on her own terms.

When I was 12-years-old, a neighbor lady trusted me to watch her children all summer. Thanks to her, I quickly learned I was a terrible babysitter and should probably never have children.

Women like Ms. Pettis, my ninth-grade English teacher at Riverview Junior High, taught me that even when I thought my life was over, I was valuable to her. She showed up at my home every week to make sure I stayed on top of my assignments and she encouraged my writing. She is a hero.

My Aunt Judy created a safe place for 8-year-old me when I ran away from home because Mom was censoring the books I read. She didn’t think “Jaws” was an acceptable summer read for a third-grader but Aunt Judy let me stay the night until I calmed down. Then I read “Jaws” in secret.

Renee Smith was my dance instructor for eight years. She taught me tap, jazz and ballet, and encouraged me to try out for “The Nutcracker”. But because I wasn’t actually coordinated, I never landed a part. She always believed I would. At least she said she did.

Mom was an unrivaled teacher, encouraging me to read (except “Jaws”), write poetry, make music, dance, ride bikes, play basketball and try new things. It wasn’t her

fault I didn’t see her value until I became a mom.

My daughters, my granddaughters, my sisters, my nieces, my cousins, my aunts, my grandmothers, my friends, my colleagues, my teachers: all these women have made me what I am today. Yes, it’s their fault.

Even when the president (and Google) removes Women’s History Month from the calendar, women will do what we’ve always done: help other women to be powerful, to find their voice, to live their passion, to stand up for what’s right, to lead and to shine brighter than ever. Don’t mistake our gentle demeanor for passivity.

Joshua Pace (385) 528-6895

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MEET DR. HARARAH, M.D.

Dr. Hararah, a triple board-certified physician, completed his residency in Family Medicine at NYU Langone and a fellowship in Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine/Wound Care at SUNY Upstate University Hospital. With additional training in Bariatric Medicine and certification from the American Board of Obesity Medicine, he brings expertise in primary care, dive medicine, bariatric medicine, and clinical hyperbarics. A firm believer in the biopsychosocial approach, Dr. Hararah views patients as complex individuals whose lives and experiences shape their healthcare.

Known for his compassionate care and dedication, he listens intently, prioritizes your well-being, and works to find the best diagnosis and treatment plan. As the owner of Riverstone Medical, Dr. Hararah is committed to helping you achieve your best health.

OUR SERVICES

Specializing in Wound Care:

• Chronic, non-healing wounds

• Acute, minor wounds

• Diabetic foot ulcers

• Venous ulcers

• Arterial ulcers

• Pressure injuries

• ...and more!

Primary Care:

• Annual preventative physical exams

• Cancer screening

• Sick visits

• Specialist referrals

• Medication refills

• Chronic disease management

Patients First: Dr. Hararah understands the daunting and sometimes demoralizing feelings health care sometimes causes, and wants patients to be truly seen and valued as human beings.

We'd love to see you! Call or text to make an appointment: 801-509-9138 688 Vine St., Suite 16, Murray riverstone-medical.com