AUDIENCES WILL GET A TASTE OF REAL MAGIC AT ‘HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD’
By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
Themagical story of J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” will have touches of real magic when Riverton High School students perform the show Feb. 20, 21, 22 and 24. Shows begin at 7 p.m. There will also be a matinee performance at 2 p.m. on Feb. 22. Tickets are $10/ adults, $8/students/seniors and can be purchased online or at the door.
Director Clin Eaton is excited to add some spectacular magical elements to the show which will leave audiences spellbound. Special effects will be conjured with the help of professional magician Paul Draper, and ZFX, a professional theatrical flying effects team out of Las Vegas, will assist with some spellbinding aerial stunts. A touch of enchantment will be created by choreography wizard Geoff Reynolds from BYU.
“Even though it’s not a musical, there is underscoring—music that plays constantly through it because it moves pretty fast—so there’s choreography and movement that is pretty magical,” Eaton said.
Eaton said those who enjoy the Harry Potter books or movies will have a good time at the show, which continues Harry Potter’s adventures through his son Albus, who befriends Scorpius Malfoy, the son of Draco Malfoy, Harry’s rival. The story features a new generation of Hogwarts students along with many of the series’ familiar characters.
“It helps if audiences are familiar with Harry Potter, but
Riverton High School is one of just a few schools granted permission to perform “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: High School Edition.”
(Photo courtesy Clin Eaton)
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UPCOMING EVENTS:
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2/20/25 Thursday - 12 PM
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Common busing issues resolved with tracking app
Two-hundred ninety-one buses transport
18,726 Jordan School District students on 168 different routes each day. For the most part, the system runs smoothly. But sometimes a problem arises and kids and parents are left wondering, “Where’s the bus?”
Two years ago, JSD equipped all their buses with a geotracking device. Using the Zonar MyView app, parents can see the exact location of their child’s bus, which solves many of the problems bus users face.
West Jordan resident Joshua Workman relies on the app to get information when his child’s school bus is delayed.
“When the bus is a bit late coming or going, I can pull it up and see where it’s at for some reassurance that we didn’t miss it in the morning or that it’s still on its way back from the school,” he said.
District Transportation Director Paul Bergera said the app has drastically reduced the amount of calls the dispatch receives from worried parents.
“We used to have kids waiting outside in 20 degree weather for 30 minutes because their bus broke down, and so now the communication is much more fluid between the app and the families,” he said. “It really has helped settle some of the nerves when it comes to bussing, which can be pretty stressful.”
In the app, Workman sets zones for home and school and gets notifications when the bus is near the bus stop in the morning and when it is leaving the school in the afternoon.
“I’ll get a notification when it crosses into the home zone and I can tell my kids it’s time to rush out the door,” he said. “With three young kids, it can be easy to lose track of the minutes in the morning, so when I get a ping on my phone it helps me make sure they don’t miss the bus.”
Bergera likes that multiple zones or geo
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By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
fences can be created with customized text alerts to keep morning schedules running on time.
“So when the bus heads to the geo fence, it’ll say, ‘time to brush teeth,’ and they know they’ve got 10 minutes until the bus is coming to the stop, and then they’ll have another one set up in five minutes when it’s a little bit closer to the home, and once it gets there, they may have their message say, ‘backpack and out the door,’” he said.
Of the many benefits, Bergera said the app has been especially helpful to families of kids with special needs.
Jordan School District has 83 bus routes for students with special needs, most of whom are picked up at their homes. In the past, when the driver pulled up to the house, they would honk to alert the family they had arrived. If the child didn’t come out within two minutes, they would leave so they wouldn’t get behind schedule. With the app, parents can consistently have their child ready when the bus arrives.
And when those buses arrive at school, teachers can be ready to meet them.
“I’d say one of the biggest success stories is for the school personnel who didn’t know when the buses were going to show up, so they would have to call,” Bergera said. “But now they’re all able to track them so they can stay with their kids in their class and then exit out and get students that may be coming in on the bus that’s running a little bit behind schedule, so that they’re not having to wait out there for that entire time.”
The MyView app can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play. Privacy protections require that to set up an account, parents must have the school access code (which is available through Jordan School District’s transportation webpage) and their child’s student number.l
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RIVERTON TEAM
Each Jordan District bus is equipped with a GPS tracker which allows parents to receive notifications when their child’s bus is on the way. (Jet Burnham/City Journals)
Students in Jordan School District’s Chinese Dual Language Immersion program are immersed in the Chinese language at least half of the school day beginning in the first grade. By the time students reach high school, they’ve passed their Chinese Language Advanced Placement test, so much of their learning comes from participating in competitions, organizing cultural events and seizing opportunities to go to China.
“I want my students to take what they’ve learned over the past 10–12 years and apply it in real-world settings,” high school Chinese DLI teacher Wei Wei said.
In November, she took her students from both Riverton High School and Mountain Ridge High School to compete with 22 other Chinese language teams for cash prizes at the High School Business Language Competition, which is held at Brigham Young University each year.
Mountain Ridge High School students Miles Garber, Kylie White and Brynlee Dalton took first place in the competition, and Riverton High School students Gracie Nelson, Clancy Wan and Olivia Stott took third place.
Students showcased their business and language skills by developing and presenting a marketing strategy for the Busankam Wola Foundation—which teaches women to weave baskets—to market their products to Chinese consumers.
Students said the project was a lot of work and it challenged them to manage their time and to hone their memorization and presentation skills.
Their presentation was given in Chinese, so students took the opportunity to expand their Chinese vocabulary with specialized business and commerce terminology.
“I just made a vocab list of probably 50 words that I didn’t know that were specifically business words, and then just memorized them, honestly, because if you don’t have them memorized, you can’t really talk about it and explain it in your presentation,” Dalton said.
The first-place team felt they won because they were well-prepared, with a completely memorized presentation. They also included cultural considerations in their marketing strategy.
“We tried to add a lot of the Chinese culture, like traditional words or colors that mean fortune or prosperity, and putting those Chinese words on the baskets,” White said.
Knowing young people in China are environmentally conscious and that they value honoring their parents, the students proposed marketing the hand-woven baskets as an environmentally friendly gift for parents.
Team members also decided to dress professionally for their presentation, wearing black clothing with red accents because of its cultural meaning.
Chinese DLI students win state competition
Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
“Red is really significant in Chinese culture; red means luck,” Dalton said.
The winning team members also had a unique solution that they think helped them stand out from the other competitors.
“The biggest thing we were hung up on was shipping costs and this is where the kind of long shot idea came in,” Garber said. The team pitched the idea of shipping only
“Our students won so many awards, and they were over the moon about it,” she said. “That kind of recognition really fuels their passion for learning Chinese, creating this awesome cycle of hard work and success.”
Other opportunities high school Chinese DLI students have to apply and expand their language skills are at a statewide STEM competition, an international Model UN program in China, as well as local teaching opportunities and cultural celebrations.
Their next big event is the Chinese Language Fair which is hosted by Mountain Ridge High School each March. Students of all ages from all Jordan School District Chinese DLI programs participate in the fair, which features language competitions, talent shows and cultural crafts, activities, games and music.
“It’s always a hit, and the kids love showing off their skills,” Wei Wei said. Garber, who is a senior, said he has developed a lot of unexpected skills by participating in these types of activities.
“I’ve been able to run Chinese events for our school—we’ve done a Chinese New Year’s Festival and Mid-Autumn Festival,” he said. “I’ve had lots of opportunities in leadership to delegate and plan activities and stuff that I never thought I would get from Chinese. So I’ve grown a lot as a leader from those. And the projects really test my creativity. There are lots that are super creative and this just really helps me grow a lot with my critical thinking and creativity that I never, ever thought it would. I’ve been able to do so many really cool things. The Chinese trip was one of them—that was just unreal.”
Garber and White both have gone on one of the cultural exchange trips Wei Wei tries to arrange as often as possible for her students.
“Last June, I took 20 students to Jiangsu Province, and it was unforgettable,” Wei Wei said. “They performed Chinese songs and dances, gave speeches, and even did interviews in Chinese. People were blown away, saying, ‘Their Chinese is so good!’ One of my favorite moments was seeing Chinese and American kids playing guitar and singing Taylor Swift songs together. It was such a beautiful reminder of how music, culture and language can bring people together.”
Dalton, a sophomore, is looking forward to the opportunity to visit the country she’s learned so much about her whole life.
the basket materials from Ghana and then assembling them in a factory in China, saving money on shipping costs and offering a faster turnaround time on the finished products. Their plan also included providing jobs and educational opportunities for the basket weavers.
Wei Wei said it was a great learning opportunity for her students.
“I really do want to go to China at some point—I think that would be a really, really cool opportunity for me,” she said. “I think you can learn Chinese as much as you want, but until you actually go there and experience it—. I think you just need to be able to experience it to really know what it’s like.” l
Mountain Ridge High School Chinese DLI students Miles Garber, Kylie White and Brynlee Dalton pose with their teacher Wei Wei after winning first place at the 2024 High School Business Language Competition. (Photo courtesy Wei Wei)
Students pose in front of the baskets that they developed a marketing strategy for. (Photo courtesy Kylie White)
Parent wants ADHD to receive more focused attention from educators
By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com
Teachers are seeing an increase in numbers of students with ADHD, which affects their academic, social and emotional development. Some said one-third to almost half of the students in their classroom have ADHD. The diagnosis means their brains are wired differently, and it is challenging for them to complete tasks, stay focused, remember the steps they’ve learned and to control their impulses and emotional responses.
Deficit of understanding
ADHD behaviors require alternatives to traditional teaching and discipline methods, said Raquel Gonçalves Lubbers. When she was teaching, she didn’t understand how her students with ADHD brains’ processed information. Years later, when she, her husband and all of their children were diagnosed with ADHD, she became an expert in order to understand how to work through their struggles. She was shocked when she tended to know more about the subject than the mental health professionals she met with. She was also surprised to discover school teachers don’t receive any explicit training on ADHD.
“In school, they would tell us about some things we might see, some disabilities, learning disabilities, things like that, but as far as what to do about them, how to help those kids? — I didn’t get specific training,” third grade teacher Joy Edman said.
Eventually, Lubbers created a website of resources (adhdheroacademy.com) and became a certified ADHD coach to help people understand and manage their ADHD. She serves on the board for the newly organized Utah ADHD Collective and also hopes to start an ADHD podcast. She is offering a free webinar Feb. 27 at 6:30 p.m.
The impact of ignorance
Lubbers’ concern is that failing to address ADHD appropriately can be damaging to kids.
“These kids are underperforming because they need support, and they don’t even know they need support,” Lubbers said. “They just assume that they’re a terrible person, and so does everyone else, because everyone’s told them their whole lives, ‘You could be so much better if you just tried. Why don’t you care?’— all the language of failure, blame and shame.”
Research shows people with ADHD have higher rates of suicide, anxiety, depression and school dropouts, Lubbers said.
“It is shocking, isn’t it, that there isn’t more specific training to help this portion of the population that have really dire consequences because they aren’t getting the support that they need,” she said.
Lubbers developed a training pre-
sentation specifically for educators to help them understand the reasons behind the behavior exhibited from students with ADHD. She has reached out to school administrators and district representatives to advocate for more training, more understanding, more supports and more resources for both students and their teachers.
By educating parents and teachers, Lubbers hopes that attitudes toward ADHD will improve and kids will get the support they need.
Lubbers said many secondary school teachers don’t realize kids with ADHD can have as much as a 30% delay in the executive functioning skills needed to work independently.
“As executive functions go in their brain, they’re still in elementary school, but no one’s supporting it because they assume they should know this by now,” Lubbers said.
ADHD solutions in the classroom
Lubbers presented her training to the staff at Daybreak Elementary School and wishes more educators would prioritize ADHD-specific training.
“I recognize that the initial gut reaction of admins and teachers is probably ‘I can’t even do one more thing,’” she said. “They don’t realize that this ‘one more thing’ actually helps them in everything. It helps
themselves and it helps put them into a position to make tiny little changes that make everything easier in the classroom.”
Because she didn’t receive any specific training on ADHD, Edman said when she first began teaching, she struggled to understand her students with ADHD.
“As I’ve gotten to know the kids better, I realize that they legitimately think about things differently,” she said.
The strategies she now uses in her classroom to help these students were learned through experience and experimentation.
“It’s a lot of ‘Let’s try it and see if this works,’” she said. “And you’ve got to persevere through that hard time where it’s not working and not give up too early on something.”
Some of her students with ADHD are motivated by reward charts, especially when they are themed according to their interests. Others need a visual checklist to help them stay organized and on-task. Edman said many of the strategies she uses to help students with attention deficits and executive functioning struggles—repeating directions multiple times, having kids repeat instructions, using visual reminders and timers—are simply best practices for teachers.
Some of the strategies fifth grade teacher
Having learned that many kids with ADHD are motivated by reward charts, third grade teacher Joy Edman uses charts themed according to their interests, such as reptiles. (Photo courtesy Joy Edman)
effective are allowing students to take frequent breaks and using games and challenges to stimulate and motivate them.
“ADHD is such a grab bag of symptoms,” Boyles said. “It shows up in so many different ways and so many different combinations that what works for one kid doesn’t always work for the others. But
Angelique Boyles has found to be
ADHD coach Raquel Gonçalves Lubbers presents information about ADHD to the staff of a Daybreak Elementary to help them better understand and help their students. (Photo courtesy Raquel Gonçalves Lubbers)
there are definitely ones that usually work so I try those first.”
Boyles actively follows ADHD experts on social media, reads books and listens to podcasts to continually learn new strategies.
“I’m always looking for something— what do I not know? What else can I try? What else can I put in my toolbox to try for these kids?” she said.
Boyles didn’t understand how ADHD was impacting her students until her own child was diagnosed with ADHD.
“Their brains just work differently,” she said. “They’re still good people, they’re very kind, they want to learn and they want to succeed just like anybody else, but their executive functioning skills, that part of their brain, is developing at two-thirds the rate of a normal child.”
Once she understood that, she was able to take a more compassionate approach when ADHD behaviors disrupted her classroom.
“ADHD is something you are born with,” she said. “It’s the way your brain is functioning, and it’s not something that you can train yourself and then you don’t have it
gies and resources. They can also work with students individually—at a parent’s request—to help them figure out ways to organize their assignments, manage their impulse control or regulate their emotions, which helps improve students’ behavior in the classroom.
Accommodations for ADHD
Students with ADHD symptoms severe enough to interfere with their ability to access learning can qualify for accommodations through a Section 504 plan. In Jordan District, 2,683 students (4.75% of all students) have a 504 plan to address ADHD, diabetes or other disabilities.
Ideally, Bailey said, students, parents, psychologists and teachers work together to determine the best accommodations.
“I think it takes everyone to help that child feel supported, and to look for ways that they can help them,” he said.
He said it’s helpful for secondary teachers especially to be involved so that they understand that the cause of the students’ behaviors is due to a difference in processing and development, not a defiant attitude.
Resources for families
anymore. You will always have ADHD. But there are strategies and things that you can do to help minimize those effects.”
She happily shares what she’s learned with parents or colleagues who ask. Without explicit training, that is how most teachers learn how to help their students with ADHD. In a school full of teachers, there’s always someone who has been through the same situation that you are struggling with now, Edman said.
“I’ve been so lucky to have great teachers around me that I could go to and say, ‘Hey, this is what I’m noticing—what do I do?’” Edman said.
School resources
Each school in Jordan District also has a psychologist who is available as a resource for teachers.
“Our training in mental health and assessment allows us to have that background knowledge, to know how to work with kids that are experiencing ADHD in the classroom,” Fort Herriman Middle School Psychologist Jared Bailey said.
Psychologists can help teachers understand ADHD and they can suggest strate-
Jordan District 504 Teacher Specialist Glenn Williams explains, “A 504 plan is about identifying what problems the disability is causing for the student in terms of barriers to participating and then taking those barriers out of the way so that they can participate like everybody else. We’re not intending to fix those problems; we’re intending to remove those problems from the equation, in a sense, so that the student has a level playing field, or just has an equal opportunity to succeed.”
Accommodations for students with ADHD commonly include being allowed to take frequent movement breaks, getting an extension on due dates, having teachers repeat or give written instructions, establishing a signal teachers can use to subtly direct the student’s attention back to their task or having teachers check in with the student periodically to keep them on task.
Because the effects of ADHD vary depending on the type and the student, 504 plan accommodations are individualized, based on what specific challenges a student experiences. However, not every student with an ADHD diagnosis qualifies for a 504, and not all proposed accommodations are possible.
Jordan District provides additional resources for parents and students with ADHD through the Jordan District Family Education Center, where the lending library has over 1,000 books covering a variety of topics including ADHD.
Classes offered at the Family Education Center can also help address behaviors associated with ADHD. There is a class specifically for parenting children with ADHD, but Bailey said other classes such as those that address anger management, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, social skills and mindfulness can also be beneficial.
Families can also utilize the Family Education Center’s free, short-term counseling services to get an ADHD diagnosis or to learn strategies and skills to reduce their challenges.
If parents suspect their child has ADHD, they can reach out to their child’s doctor or a school psychologist for an evaluation. While some parents are reluctant to label their kids because of a negative stigma or misunderstanding of ADHD, many experts say that without a diagnosis to explain their behaviors and struggles, a child is left exposed to inaccurate and hurtful labels such as “troublemaker,” “lazy” and “rude.” l
Textured wobble cushions are available to Joy Edman’s third grade students who need to move around in their seat without distracting others. (Photo courtesy Joy Edman)
Third grade teacher Joy Edman posts visual reminders in her classroom to help her students with ADHD, who need multiple reminders of instructions. (Photo courtesy Joy Edman)
Mayor vows to work with agencies to deport ‘illegal immigrants who commit crimes’
Mayor Trent Staggs addressed illegal immigrant crime in early January in an official statement on how the city intends to address the situation.
“Communities in Utah are beginning to see an increase in major crime, including Riverton City. A significant portion of the increase appears to be coming from gangs, some of which are transnational or here illegally and who prey upon vulnerable populations among us,” he said. “My message is clear: if you commit a crime, we are coming for you. And, if you are here illegally, we will not only prosecute you but work with federal agencies and do all we can to have you deported.”
He added in the statement, and in ensuing comments at the Jan. 7 council meeting, that Riverton “would not be a shield or sanctuary city like some of these others across the country.”
Sanctuary cities were municipalities who, early in President Donald Trump’s first term, limited cooperation in enforcing federal immigration laws.
State leaders have announced their intention to support Trump and his administration’s immigration policy. Gov. Spencer Cox has signed a letter making several requests of the administration including more funding for jail beds and transportation, the suspension of “unreasonable detention standards,” and the immediate removal of Michael Bernacke from the ICE Salt Lake City Field Office.
Staggs released a statement expressing support to incoming administration “to ensure those here illegally and
By Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com
who commit crimes will be deported. The Riverton Police Department has ample resources to deploy with committed partners, including the Immigration and Customs Enforcement federal agency and other local partners, to combat this major crime increase.”
The mayor repeatedly referenced enforcing, respecting and upholding the law during his council meeting comments.
“We’re going to cooperate with federal agencies,” he said, which include the Immigration and Customs Enforcement, also known as ICE.
Gina Crezee, the executive director of the nonprofit Immigrant Legal Services in Millcreek said for some immigrants there is “nothing for them here but to have a better life than what they had in their country.” She highlighted clients of hers from an Asian country who owned a business company they gave up to come to America.
“Undocumented folks came to the door of America, through the airport, the border across Canada or walked through the river and they all came here with the hopes of having a better life,” she said. “I do not call them illegal. They are just doing exactly what our grandparents did.”
In his statement Staggs stressed the situation goes beyond political partisanship.
“Riverton residents deserve to feel safe, and our children deserve a future free from fear. Individuals committing crimes need to face consequences, otherwise the rule of law protecting our society will be to no avail.” l
Riverstone Medical — Dr. Khalid Hararah
Dr. Khalid Hararah opened his new clinic, Riverstone Medical, in October 2024, bringing primary care and his specialized practice to Salt Lake County.
A University of Utah grad, Dr. Hararah completed his family medicine residency at NYU Langone in New York City. He then attended SUNY Upstate University Hospital to complete an undersea and hyperbaric medicine/wound care fellowship. He is also a diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine.
Tell us about Riverstone Medical.
My clinic is designed to make patients feel comfortable, at ease and not too anxious. I want my patients to be seen as individuals, not just another patient. Each patient’s well-being is my top priority. I work with any adult, 18 and older, to help them create the best life. We also offer convenient online booking on the website, Riverstone-Medical.com.
What is your medical philosophy?
I consider myself very empathetic. My approach to patient care is that it’s a partnership. When someone comes into the office, it’s my job to educate and tell them all the facts, risks and benefits of treatments. That allows them to make
an informed decision. It’s hard being a patient and it’s hard to find someone willing to listen to you, hear what you have to say, see what your perspective is and not be dismissive.
How do you stand out from your competition?
First of all is my availability and in terms of training, I went to NYU, one of the top hospitals in the nation. I received top training from some of the best doctors. I can help with general medical needs but also weight loss and complex wound care.
I also specialize in dive medicine and clinical hyperbarics. Dr. Hararah is one of few dive specialists in Utah.
What is hyperbaric medicine?
Hyperbaric medicine is the use of a pressurized oxygen chamber to treat disease. First, there’s dive medicine, which is scuba diving clearances and supervision of scuba diving operations. We diagnose and treat scuba diving emergencies and accidents. We’ll treat and manage those conditions.
More commonly, we treat things like chronic non-healing wounds, like diabetic ulcers, radiation damage from cancer treatment, carbon monoxide poisoning, sudden hearing loss, sudden blindness, chronic bone infections, and severe anemia.
688 E. Vine Street, Suite 16 801-509-9138 riverstonemed@gmail.com Riverstone-Medical.com
Tell me about your work with bariatric medicine.
I do medical weight loss for the right candidate but not everyone is the right candidate. For me, it’s more in the mind of helping people be healthier and decreasing their risk of having diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
I’m certified by the American Board of Obesity Medicine to provide nutritional counseling, exercise counseling, to discuss the medications and prescribe the weight loss medications that are out there.
Why should patients work with you?
I like to think of it as you’re the quarterback and I’m the coach. At the end of the day, I can tell you what to do, but you’re the one that’s going to have to execute the plan. I try to formulate a plan that the patient is comfortable with but I’m also willing to explore other options. I’m open-minded. I’m very evidence-based in my recommendations but I’m humble. I understand that we don’t know everything in medicine and we should have an open mind when it comes to diagnosis and treatment.
Mayor Trent Staggs addressed illegal immigrant crime in early January in an official statement on how the city intends to address the situation. (File photo City Journals)
RIVERTON REVIEW
Official Newsletter of the Riverton, Utah City Government
MAYOR’S MESSAGE
Public Works Department’s Impressive Workload
By Mayor Trent Staggs
The Riverton City Public Works Department accomplishes remarkable feats of management, innovation, and strategic planning in service to our community. Utility fees paid by Riverton residents help pay for this department’s work. It is noteworthy that Riverton City has among the lowest utility fees in the valley, and we are still able to provide all required services and more through fiscal discipline and prudent planning. As your mayor, I have witnessed firsthand the dedication and hard work of this team in ensuring the smooth operation of our city’s infrastructure. Their commitment to serving our community is truly commendable, and I would like to review just a part of what they accomplished last year.
The Public Works Department operates with the core objective of maintaining and regulating the infrastructure of our city. Their work is guided by the city’s strategic priorities, and they make every decision with the goal of protecting and best using city funds.
The Department is made up of multiple divisions accountable for oversight of core responsibilities. At the heart of each of their efforts is the desire to ensure the health, welfare, and safety of every citizen in our city.
The Parks Division, with its 10 dedicated employees, maintains our 33 city parks, over 540 acres of public green space, 14 trails, a fishing pond, and three splash pads. This past year they have installed 3 new pavilions, planted 120 new trees and trimmed over 500 more. In addition, they are currently working on several projects including the Jordan River Gazebo Restoration, Rose Creek Trail Improvements, a New ADA Playground, Trestle Lane Connection, and Midas Creek Park Improvement.
“The Public Works Department operates with the core objective of maintaining and regulating the infrastructure of our city.”
The Streets Division is responsible for our transportation network, which includes 150 center lane miles and 270 miles of sidewalk. In the past year alone, they have managed 172 tons of asphalt, 34 yards of concrete, 40
The Culinary Water Division provides quality water to our residents, maintaining 200 miles of pipe, over 5,000 valves, and over 2,000 fire hydrants. The secondary water system, which serves all residents, is an exceptional resource, saving our residents tremendous amounts of money.
The Fleet Division maintains 351 pieces of equipment, from lawn mowers to police vehicles, and manages our bulk fuel station. In the past year, they have driven 1,079,174 miles, used 82,371 gallons of fuel and completed 1801 work orders.
The Street Light Division ensures the safety of our city with 3,542 streetlights. They have completed 474 repairs and converted 654 lamps to LED lights.
The Stormwater Division has also been incredibly busy, administering our flood control system and managing our 90 miles of pipe, 1,981 manholes, 2,463 catch basins, 47 detention ponds, 11 retention ponds, 68 drywells and 110 MS4 outfalls. They have swept 2,470 miles of city streets, removing 376 tons of tailings.
The Engineering and Operations divisions also play a critical role in supporting all the other divisions, and our residents.
These accomplishments are not just numbers; they are a testament to the dedication of each and every member of the Public Works Department. They work tirelessly to ensure our city operates efficiently and safely. Their work is guided by our city values of collaboration, service, stewardship, integrity, and innovation. I am immensely grateful for their unwavering commitment to our community.
miles of crack seal and 747 tons of road salt.
COUNCIL MESSAGE
Emergency Services in Riverton
ELECTED OFFICIALS
Trent Staggs - Mayor
Andy Pierucci - District 1
Troy McDougal - District 2
Tawnee McCay - District 3
Tish Buroker - District 4
Spencer Haymond - District 5
UPCOMING
CITY MEETINGS
CITY COUNCIL
February, 4 & 18, 7 p.m.
PLANNING COMMISSION
February, 13 & 27, 6:30 p.m.
CONTACT US rivertonutah.gov
801-254-0704
Report a problem at rivertonutah.gov/report
By Council Member Tawnee McCay
A resident recently asked if Riverton City could provide more information and numbers about emergency response. I appreciate our UFA Battalion Chief Wade Watkins for providing detailed information. I was appointed as an alternate on the Unified Fire Authority Board and enjoy learning more about the great service they provide our community.
The heat map (Figure 1) reflects all 911 Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and Fire responses within Riverton City. The blue areas are where 911 calls originate, with higher numbers in red and the highest in the white bubble areas. You will notice there is more call volume coming from care facilities/rehabilitation centers, intersections with construction, shopping centers, and residential areas.
To the right we see chart 2 and 3 which show the incident numbers for medical calls and fire dispatches last year. “ALS” stands for “ Advanced Life Support ,” which refers to critical situations requiring immediate intervention like cardiac arrest or severe trauma.
@rivertonutahgov
I appreciate the service of our dedicated fire and emergency first responders. Riverton City provides a safe place to live, work and raise our families. Have a great week.
Figure 1 - Emergency heat map showing all EMS response calls
Chart 3
Chart 2
PUBLIC SAFETY MESSAGE
Keeping Our Streets Safe This Winter
Although we have not had to deal with very much snow yet this year, our public works employees have proven in past years of their ability to clear snowy roads across the city. I would like to share with you how this all works.
The city has in place a standard operating plan for snow removal. That plan is completely dependent on how much snow has fallen and stuck to the roads. The top priority for city snowplows is to clear all major roads and school zones. Once those areas are cleared they can move to secondary roads and stop signs. Attention is shifted to residential streets and cul-de-sacs if four or more inches of snow has accumulated, along with city facilities and city-maintained sidewalks.
We understand the frustration you might feel if it seems your street has been passed over or forgotten. With 150 miles of center-lane roadway in Riverton City, we can assure you it has not been forgotten, but we do ask for patience as our public works department works its way down the priority list.
Following the record-setting snowfall we received in the winter of 2022-2023, our public works department was prepared for the
From November 1 to March 1, no vehicle is permitted to be parked on city streets during a snow event or where snow has accumulated on road.
worst last winter. Our crews ended up plowing a combined 1,933 miles of road and depositing 747 tons of salt following the 13 snow events. We appreciate this work, as it often requires waking up early in the morning and driving on roads that have not yet had a chance to be plowed themselves.
To help make their job easier, the city has established a winter parking policy that is in effect from November 1 to March 1 of every year. As part of this policy, no vehicle is permitted to be parked on city streets during a snow event or where snow has accumulated on road shoulders. In addition, the policy states property owners
Winter Parking Policy & Snow Removal Protocol
are required to shovel snow on all sidewalks that are adjacent to their property.
We are grateful for the work of public works during these winter months and appreciate the contributions from our wonderful Riverton residents. The work you put into your own communities does not go unnoticed and helps make Riverton such a great place to live. We encourage all to remember to drive slowly when snow has accumulated on the road and to maintain a safe distance between you and the car ahead of you. If you ever have questions about snow removal or the parking policy, visit rivertonutah.gov/snow.
The following snow removal protocol and winter parking policy is in effect in Riverton:
• Between November 1 and March 1, no vehicle may be parked on city streets during a snow storm OR where snow has accumulated on road shoulders.
• Major roadways, high-traffic areas and school zones are prioritized in snow removal efforts as a matter of public safety.
• Minor roads and cul-de-sacs are cleared if 4 inches of snow or more has accumulated once main roadways are clear.
• Snow removal problem reports or complaints may be directed to the Riverton City Public Works Department at 801-208-3162
For enforcement requests of the winter parking ordinance, please call RPD Non-Emergency Dispatch at 801-840-4000.
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UPCOMING EVENTS RIVERTON
Be part of a Riverton tradition and come participate in one of the valley’s best races. Medals and prizes will be awarded for participants and winners.
Early registration continues through February 28 for the Riverton Half Marathon & 5K on Saturday, March 22, 2025. Races begin at 9 a.m. at Riverton City Park. Register at: rivertonutah.gov/half
Not Your Parent’s Art Show
Come see original art pieces created by young local artists displayed at the Old Dome Meeting Hall. Find details at rivertonutah. gov/exhibits.
• Visit Through February 25, Monday - Friday, Noon - 5 p.m.
Life in Real Life Winter Festival
Join us for this new Riverton City event for teens. The day’s activities include guest speakers, workshops, service project, talent show, dinner, concert, & dance. For tickets visit rivertonutah.gov/LiveInRealLife
• February 22, 2025 • 2 - 9 p.m.
Sandra N. Lloyd Community Center
Jitterbug Jive Adult Swing Dance
Join us for an event with a night of Charleston, swing, and Lindy Hop! Enjoy live music by the Riverton Jazz Band and a free dance lesson at 7 PM. Visit rivertonutah. gov/jitterbug-jive
• February 15, 2025, Sandra N. Lloyd Community Center
Become a Riverton Town Days Sponsor
Riverton City is seeking business sponsorships to help us put on great Riverton Town Days and Rodeo events this year!
Visit rivertonutah.gov/sponsors to see what opportunities are available or to submit a sponsor application.
Old Dome Meeting Hall gains a reputation for quality art exhibits
Celebrating more than a century of art, the Old Dome Meeting Hall (1452 W. 12600 South) in Riverton hosted a traveling art exhibit in January from the Utah Division of Arts and Museums. Selections from the State of Utah Alice Merrill Horne Art Collection, featuring pieces from some of Utah’s finest artists, were displayed during the exhibit.
“It’s 125 years of collecting for the Utah State art collection,” said Riverton City Arts Administrator Vicki Wartman. “If you look up Alice Merrill Horne, she was an amazing lady who had tons to do with education and art in Utah. I’ve been told by some of my art friends that the reason why we have art in school in Utah is because of Alice Merrill Horne.”
The exhibit featured works that spotlight moments in history throughout the state. Frank Tresser, a prisoner at Utah’s Territorial Penitentiary (now the location of Sugar House Park) created an oil painting of the prison in 1887.
Florence Ellen Ware (1891-1971) graduated from the University of Utah and attended the Art Institute of Chicago. In 1940, she was the first President of the Association of Utah Artists and taught at the University of Utah. Ware’s painting “Portrait on the Beach” was on display at the exhibit.
Carlos Anderson (1904-1978) was a painter and graphic designer who graduated
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
from Jordan High School. The exhibit included his 1934 pencil drawing, “Home Main Street.”
The collection at the Utah Division of Arts and Museums also includes works from Utah artists Rob Chipman, Anna Mackay Allred and Emily Farnham.
“It’s so cool that we’re celebrating 125 years of art in Utah because in Utah we don’t get the recognition that we deserve, as far as art in the United States,” Wartman said. “So it’s cool that we are still really into our arts, as far as art galleries and productions and all that kind of stuff.”
Exhibits at the meeting hall are growing in popularity. Wartman said there aren’t a lot of galleries in the Southwest part of the valley and she’s encouraged to see more interest in the displays.
“We’ve had a lot of people come in and we’re getting more and more recognized or having an art exhibit here all the time,” she said. “You need to go see some art and Old Dome always has an exhibit going.”
Coming up next at the Old Dome Meeting Hall is the Not Your Parents Art Show featuring original art pieces made by youth up to age 18. The show runs from Feb. 3-26.
Frank Treseder, an artist and prisoner at the Utah Territorial Penitentiary,
in 1887. His “Utah Territorial Prison” oil on canvas
of a traveling exhibition from the Utah Division of
“This is my most popular art show,” Wartman said. “I usually get about 150 submissions…I think because it’s not juried. When the kids get into junior high and high school, their art gets juried and it’s hard on their egos and their self-esteem. I believe what Picasso said, that every child is an artist. It doesn’t matter what it looks like, it’s still art. Draw outside the lines, do whatever you want.”
Visitors can attend the Not Your Parents Art Show Monday through Wednesday, from noon to 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday visits are available by appointment. To schedule a group or school tour, contact Wartman at 385-2373421 or events@rivertonutah.gov. l
painted a picture of the prison
was displayed at the Old Dome Meeting Hall as part
Arts and Museums. (Photo courtesy of UDAM)
Stauffer putting up big numbers for Riverton girls basketball
By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com
It’s no secret that the Riverton girls basketball team plays in a challenging region. With Faythe Stauffer in the lineup, the Silverwolves are not an easy team to defeat.
Riverton is in the same region as defending state runner-up Copper Hills as well as strong opponents Mountain Ridge, Corner Canyon and Bingham. Riverton lost its first three league games but was 9-6 overall at press time.
Senior guard Faythe Stauffer has been one of the region’s most productive players.
On the season, through the first 15 games, Stauffer paced the team with 17.2 points per game. She was also second in rebounding with 3.6 boards a contest and second in assists with 2.3 an outing. Defensively, she has been outstanding, accounting for nearly three steals a game. She scored in double figures in all but one game during this stretch, with a season-best 25 points against Skyridge on Dec. 6. Another highlight was Dec. 10 at Cyprus when Stauffer had 23 points and made life difficult for the Pirates by collecting seven steals. She also had two games with six steals and dished out a season-high six assists in the same game she had her top point total, against Skyridge. Stauffer twice pulled down seven rebounds.
Stauffer picked up right where she ended last season.
As a junior, Stauffer was the Silverwolves’ top scorer, putting up 17.5 points per game. She also averaged five rebounds, 2.7 assists and 2.2 steals a game in 2023–24. Two years ago, as a young sophomore, she led Riverton with more than 12 points a game and averaged nearly five rebounds a contest. As of Jan. 17, she had scored 904 points in her career.
“[Stauffer] is our best player and one of the best players in 6A,” head coach Jonathan Haag said. “She’s having a very good season
so far.”
Stauffer wants to be the best she can be, and that includes being the kind of teammate that others want to have around. She works hard to lead the team and do her part to pick up wins.
“Some goals I have is to continue to win games and beat records as an individual and a team,” she said.
Stauffer started playing basketball in second grade for her dad on a Jr. Jazz team. That squad morphed into a club team that her dad continued to coach. She loves to win, but what she enjoys most about playing basketball is forming and developing strong relationships.
“I love playing the sport because of my teammates; they have become my best friends and make me a better person on and off the court,” she said. “The drive to keep going comes from wanting to do good for myself and my teammates.”
Riverton has had its ups and downs during Stauffer’s career. The Silverwolves struggled to a 4-19 mark last season and went 1-9 in the formidable Region 2. Two years ago, the team was 3-6 in league play and 11-11 overall. As a freshman, Stauffer saw only spot duty on a squad laden with upperclassmen. She got to experience a lot of wins that year, as the Silverwolves went 18-6. Through the highs and
lows, the wins and losses, Stauffer has grown significantly. She said she has learned life lessons and become close with her fellow Riverton players.
“I have learned a lot from playing at Riverton because I have halfway grown up here,” she said. “I have learned to be patient and let the game come to me. My teammates are my family and have helped me enjoy high school on the court and on a daily basis as well.”
As one of Class 6A’s top scorers, Stauffer clearly has plenty of offensive ability. She can shoot from outside, get to the basket and get open. She also handles the ball well and finds the open teammate. She believes her strengths go beyond her physical attributes.
“I always have a good mindset and good body language,” she said. “I think it is important to keep yourself and your team on the up.”
After the season ends, Stauffer’s time as a Riverton basketball player will wrap up. But she doesn’t intend to stop playing. She hopes to take her talents to the next level. She also wants to further her education and prepare for the rest of her life.
“My post-high school plans are still to try and reach the next level the best I can,” she said. “I want to go to college and start life. I want to gain a career and continue to grow as a person.”l
Riverton’s Faythe Stauffer, a senior, is the team’s leading scorer and one of the top offensive players in Class 6A. (Photo courtesy of Jonathan Haag.)
“A”chieving excellence: CommonSpirit hospitals recognized for steadfast commitment to patient safety
At CommonSpirit Health, the safety of our patients is our most important priority. We are honored to share that three of our hospitals along the Wasatch Front received an “A” grade for our commitment to patient safety in Fall 2024.
This recognition comes from The Leapfrog Group, an independent national nonprofit watchdog focused on patient safety. Leapfrog assigns an “A,” “B,” “C,” “D” or “F” grade to hospitals across the country based on over 30 performance measures reflecting errors, accidents, injuries and infections, as well as the systems hospitals have in place to prevent them.
CommonSpirit hospitals receiving an “A” for Fall 2024 include:
• CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley
• CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – Mountain Point
• CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – West Valley
We are proud of our physicians, nurses and all our caregivers for living our values of excellence, collaboration and compassion to ensure the safety of the patients in our care.
But our work isn’t done. Our vision of a healthier future for all calls us to continue to improve our delivery of compassionate, safe care to every patient, every time, in every care site across our CommonSpirit Health Mountain Region. Achieving that vision is our commitment to you.
CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley
CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital – West Valley
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.
CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospital Mountain Point
Learn more about the services, care providers and missiondriven work of the Holy Cross hospitals and CommonSpirit Health at www.holycrossutah.org.
The right ER. Right around
the corner.
When you need emergency care fast, the closest emergency room is a smart thing to know. You never know the level of care you’ll need when an emergency happens and choosing the right ER can make all the difference. And a hospital ER comes with the confidence of additional services right on-site. Find emergency care close to you at mountain.commonspirit.org.
Christine McSweeney President
Chris Stines President
New Year’s baby born to a family at Riverton hospital
Tala Hyatt was born just a few minutes after midnight, on Jan. 1 at 12:03 a.m. to become the first baby born at an Intermountain Hospital in Utah in 2025.
It had been a typical New Year’s Eve for the Hyatt family. Marygene and Bronson Hyatt had taken their 4-year-old son, Bruxs, to see “Moana 2” before heading to their home in Murray to light some early fireworks.
Marygene Hyatt was expecting a baby and scheduled for a Cesarean delivery on Jan. 16, but her baby had other plans. On New Year’s Eve, Marygene started having contractions and decided to head to the hospital. By the time she and her husband got to Intermountain Health Riverton Hospital (3741 W. 12600 South) around 9:30 p.m., she realized her baby girl was on her way.
“I never expected that to happen because my OB/GYN gave me a due date of Jan. 23,” Marygene said. “I was not really expecting anything like that because my son was already in bed, and we were about to go to bed, but then the contractions happened.”
The Hyatts named their baby Zyani because it’s similar to a word that means “gift from God”. Her middle name, Tala, is the “goddess of the stars” in the mythology of Marygene’s native language of Tagalog.
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Marygene is originally from Samar in the Philippines but came to the United States in 2017 and became a U.S. citizen in 2023.
“When I lived in the Philippines, I had a phobia of hospitals because I had a university classmate who died in childbirth,” she said. “Everyone at Riverton Hospital is so kind and smiling and celebrating with you, and that makes me feel safe and like I have family here.”
Their son Bruxs was also born at Riverton Hospital. He wasn’t thrilled about having a sister, hoping for a brother instead. But after a while, he got used to the idea, hugging his mom’s belly and reading stories to his unborn sister.
Bronson Hyatt said the staff at Riverton Hospital was helpful and friendly and made them feel comfortable, even with such a surprise birth.
“They were so gentle with Zyani and her big brother Bruxs,” he said. “They even have GPS tracking on babies while they’re in the hospital.”
“They gave us a [gift] basket from Intermountain Hospital,” Marygene said. “It was nice of them to do that. Most of the staff, from the doctor down to the nurses, kept coming and visiting. It was really cool. It felt like a family and they took care of us.”
for a
excited to have a new sibling.
In 2024, 2,400 babies were born at Intermountain Riverton Hospital, a slight increase from previous years. More than 26,000 babies were born at Intermountain Hospitals in Utah in 2024.l
Marygene Hyatt gave birth to the first baby born at an Intermountain Hospital in 2025. Zyani Tala Hyatt was born at 12:03 a.m. on Jan. 1 at Intermountain Health Riverton Hospital. (Photo courtesy Intermountain Health)
Brother: Bruxs Hyatt welcomes his little sister, Zyani Tala. Although he was hoping
brother, he’s
(Photo courtesy Intermountain Health)
Step in rhythm with dance nights in Riverton
Dance the night away in Riverton, where the community comes alive with music and movement. From daddy-daughter dances to the adult Jitterbug Jive, there’s something for everyone to connect and create memories this month.
Just You & I: Daddy-Daughter Date Night. This daddy-daughter event has become a highly-anticipated tradition in Riverton, with its Valentine’s Day theme and special gifts for attendees.
Held at the Sandra N. Lloyd Community Center (12830 S. Redwood Road) on Friday, Feb. 7 from 6-8 p.m., the dance includes dinner and photo opportunities. Tickets are $40 per daddy-daughter couple ($20 for additional daughters) and registration is available at RivertonCity.gov.
Jitterbug Jive. Step into a memorable night of classic swing dancing at the Riverton City Jitterbug Jive for adults. Get swept away by the high-energy Charleston, the rhythms of swing and the spirited Lindy Hop.
The event will be held at the Sandra N. Lloyd Community Center on Saturday, Feb. 15, starting at 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 per person and can be purchased at RivertonCity.gov.
With music from the Riverton Jazz Band, the dance floor will come to life with vibrant tunes. Start the night with a free dance lesson, perfect for mastering the basics or polishing your moves before the fun begins. l
By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Your Mental Health Deserves Care, No Matter the Season
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The Jitterbug Jive for adults is one of two dances that will be held at the Sandra N. Lloyd Community Center (12830 S. Redwood Road) in February. (Stock photo)
UFSA board approves 23% tax increase in 2025
By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com
Unified Fire Service Area board members voted in a public meeting in December to approve a proposed tax increase for 2025. The 23% tax increase would yield $11,473,218 in revenue, according to officials.
The increase will be implemented in two parts, with the first part of the increase – referred to as the second phase of the 2024 increase – costing an estimated $5,088,123, according to the Unified Fire Service Area.
The second part of the proposed increase would address additional staffing in Kearns and Eagle Mountain, and is estimated to cost $6,385,095, according to UFSA.
“Most of the increase we’re talking about here is going to the firefighters,” Board member and Millcreek Mayor Jeff Silvestrini said at the meeting. “If we don’t pay competitive wages, they’ll go somewhere else and we’ll be even more short-staffed than we already are.”
With the 2025 tax increase being approved, the annual tax would increase from $405.35 to $498.58 for residential properties, and from $737.00 to $906.50 for commercial properties. Before 2024, the last UFSA tax increases were in 2008 and 2018.
done frivolously.”
The proposed tax increase would be used to address the cost of service, upgrade fire stations, add staff members and maintain a minimum fund balance, UFSA said.
The UFSA serves 12 jurisdictions: Alta, Brighton, Eagle Mountain, Emigration Canyon, Kearns, Magna, Millcreek, Taylorsville, White City and unincorporated Salt Lake County.
“UFSA’s primary source of income is property taxes which are collected from property owners located within UFSA boundaries,” UFSA explained.
UFSA is a “taxing entity that uses collected taxes to go directly toward fire service costs,” according to the Unified Fire Service Area. UFSA said it uses property taxes to pay its member fee to Unified Fire Authority, and that fee “is what pays for the actual service that UFSA residents benefit from.”
The 2025 tax increase would make a monthly difference of $7.77 (for an annual difference of $93.23) and a monthly difference of $14.13 for commercial properties (or an annual difference of $169.51), according to the UFSA.
Many board members acknowledged that their own families would feel the effects
Funeral arrangements are
of the increase, but they said property taxes are the only revenue for the UFSA.
“This is not an organization that is abusing the system,” Board member Kathleen Bailey of Copperton told residents after the public comment period. “This is not being
The taxes are also used to purchase and maintain property within UFSA boundaries (for example, building and maintaining fire stations). UFSA said taxes are also used to pay for administrative costs.
Full financial statements and annual budgets are available on the UFSA website. The tentative budget for 2025 is also available online. l
Fire Station 124 is one of three stations in Riverton City. (City Journals)
Spate of legislative bills address public safety and southern border crisis
By Becky Ginos | becky.g@thecityjournals.com
Several legislators are running bills this legislative session that would impact public safety and the southern border crisis. The bills address such things as organized crime, fentanyl, detention capacity, unlicensed drivers, human trafficking and more.
“The record number of people who crossed the border during the last few years is impacting states all across the country, including Utah,” said Rep. Karianne Lisonbee, R-Dist. 14.
Every state is now a border state, she said. “We welcome all who come here legally wishing to call Utah and the U.S. home. It’s part of our culture to welcome people who come here to search for a better life, to work hard, obey the law and to be part of our community. However, the chaos of the southern border has put serious strains on our communities, public safety, resources, education systems and more.”
Legislators are working on a package of bills to support local communities and address the public safety impacts of the southern border crisis on Utah, she said. “I want to underscore that this approach focused on public safety has widespread support. For example, a recent poll by the Deseret News found that 86% of Utahns support deporting illegal immigrants who commit crimes in the
United States.”
“I represent the Herriman and Riverton area,” said Rep. Candice Pierucci, R-Dist. 49. “This issue has especially impacted the southwest corner of the valley over the past two years as we’ve experienced a massive uptick in migrants relocating to our area. It’s been so significant that the Wall Street Journal reached out to me over the summer asking what was going on in Herriman.”
In just three years immigration cases have climbed to nearly 13,000 from 752 in 2020, she said. “This has put a massive strain on our community and has been unparalleled.”
Riverton City has had to triple its budget to cover the cost of translation services and its Justice Court to meet the growing needs of non-English speaking populations, said Pierucci. “We have had many schools that have seen over 126% increase in non-English speaking students, which has created massive challenges in trying to meet the needs of those students with existing capacity and resources.”
Pierucci said she will be building on the work that representatives have done in running legislation to increase the penalties for human trafficking. “We’ve seen an uptick in that as well. It’s critical that we’re cracking
Rep. Karianne Lisonbee, R-Dist. 14 and several other legislators introduced a package of proposed bills that deal with public safety and the southern border. (Becky Ginos/City Journals)
down on crime and working hand in hand with President Trump’s administration to expedite the process of exporting criminals who have entered our country either illegally or manipulated and abused our country's immigration system, who have come to America and then done harm to the public.”
Other proposed bills include repeat offenders, e-verify, property rights, foreign wire transfer fee and English language learners. The 2025 Legislative Session started Jan. 21 and ends March 7. l
The
Ceremonial groundbreaking marks the start of infrastructure at The Point
road to prosperity begins with a road. That’s how proponents of The Point are viewing the latest milestone in the development of the 600-acre property in Draper near Point of the Mountain. A recent ceremonial groundbreaking event for Porter Rockwell Boulevard, the main artery of the development, marked the start of infrastructure work at a site that is envisioned to someday be a bustling hub of housing, offices, dining, entertainment and an Innovation District.
“By breaking ground today, we are quite literally setting the stage for Phase 1 development to start in earnest,” Michael Ambre, The Point’s executive director, said at the event. “Over the next several years, you’ll see buildings go vertical from this site.”
Most groundbreakings feature a row of dignitaries using ceremonial shovels, but The Point event had a “go big” attitude as six excavators moved the dirt at the boulevard site.
Once infrastructure is in place, the 100acre first phase of development, including the Innovation District, will take shape at the heart of The Point property. Phase 1 is envisioned to be the springboard for development of the 600 acres, which in turn is expected to lead to development of more than 20,000 undeveloped acres nearby.
Jordan Teuscher, a state representative and co-chair of the Point of the Mountain State Land Authority board, noted that demolition of the former Utah State Prison location took place two years ago and the toppling of the final guard tower occurred about a year ago.
“Now, that decades-old prison facility, with its razor wire and guard towers, is completely gone, and we have a completely new canvas where we can build what we want and what Utahns want for this space,” he said. “From this area, Utah’s innovation community will rise from the ground.”
Speakers at the ceremony spoke in lofty terms about their visions for the state-owned site.
“This groundbreaking really does mark a momentous occasion for our state and for this project, for a new era in our state as we kickstart the development of a site that is owned by all Utahns — something that is truly unique,” said Gov. Spencer Cox. “It’s unlike anything else that is happening in the country. This is really unique, all over the world, as we travel and look at other projects that are happening.”
The governor described The Point as “the epicenter of the fastest-growing part of the fastest-growing state in the country.” It will be a site for tens of thousands of jobs, incorporating cutting-edge technology to change the world, and include thousands of new housing units, parks and open space, world-class office space, shopping and entertainment, among other elements, he said. Good infrastructure, made possible by
By Brice Wallace | Salt Lake Business Journal
$165 million from the Legislature, will support good development at The Point, Cox said. The state’s commitment “will truly catalyze the development so it’s done the right way. … Here we are, at the precipice of doing something really great.”
House Speaker Mike Schultz said the Porter Rockwell Boulevard connection “will benefit the whole southwest part of the valley.”
“The Point gives us the best of both worlds: the opportunity for Utahns to build a site while leveraging the benefits of private-sector competition, technological innovation and capital investment,” he said.
The Innovation District, he said, will be “a robust ecosystem that will drive cutting-edge innovation and technological advancements in a way that we’ve never seen before.” The groundbreaking event marked the beginning of a new era for Utah’s innovation community that will lead to “a bolder and brighter future for all Utahns, especially for our children and grandchildren,” Schultz said.
Senate President Stuart Adams said The Point someday will be the site of thousands of jobs, billions of dollars of state GDP and world-class shopping.
Utah already has the nation’s best economy and is its fastest-growing state, which makes The Point “the fastest-growing spot in the nation,” he said.
The Point also is in the heart of the Silicon Slopes community, where future developments in artificial intelligence will help Utah’s place in the tech world, he said.
“Everything we have is AI-driven,”
Adams said. “I firmly believe that the country who controls AI will control the world, whether it be weapons systems, whether it be technology, whether it be the economy. And we know that in order to control AI, we need technology and development. We have that happening here. I believe we’re in an arms race right now. … I believe we’re in an AI arms race, and this facility, what we’re doing here, will help us be able to solve that.”
“I think it is great for our future, not just for my community,” added Draper Mayor Troy Walker. “It’s going to transform this area, our neighboring cities, Bluffdale, Riverton, Herriman, Utah County and north. We’re going to be the epicenter of something unique, something special, something transformative.”
“This is not just another development,” Teuscher said. “A lot of people ask me, ‘Why is the state involved in a development project? Why not just sell it off, turn it over to the free market and let them build what the state actually needs?’ And the answer is, because of this Innovation District.”
Utah already is the innovation capital of the U.S., and the district will reinforce the state’s strength, he said.
“There is nothing like it in the country. It is a generational opportunity,” he said of the Innovation District. “It will attract the best and brightest from around the world to come here to solve some of our nation’s most pressing challenges and create a more prosperous future for the rising generations of Utahns.”
The infrastructure work will use concrete recycled from the prison for roads and
building foundations. The only surviving structure from the prison is a chapel built by inmates. Porter Rockwell Boulevard is envisioned to move people as well as cars, serving as a pathway for pedestrians, cyclists and visitors. Other infrastructure projects include the installation of major utilities such as power, water, sewers, storm drains and telecommunications.
The money allocated by the Legislature is in the form of a loan that will be paid back with interest through revenues from future ground lease payments.
The Point authority has signed a 20-year Phase 1 agreement with its private-sector development partner, Innovation Point Partners, which is a partnership among Lincoln Property Co., the lead developer for The Point; and two local firms, Colmena Group and Wadsworth Development Group. If IPP meets the conditions in the agreement, it will have the exclusive option to develop Phase II of The Point. That phase will consist of at least 99 acres. IPP will invest more than $2.3 billion in private-sector financing to construct the buildings and amenities at Phase 1.
Whenever it is completed, The Point development “will be known globally and loved locally,” Teuscher said.
“Our children and our grandchildren will look back on this day to remember The Point as an inflexion point for our state,” he said. “We’re literally breaking ground on groundbreaking work that will set us on a historic trajectory of progress and prosperity.”l
A crowd watches as six excavators participate in a ceremonial groundbreaking for infrastructure development at The Point in Draper. The state-owned 600-acre site, formerly home of the Utah State Prison, will be transformed into a mixed-use development, starting with a 100-acre Phase 1. (Mimi Darley Dutton/City Journals)
Merino sisters helping make Mountain Ridge girls wrestling tough to beat
By Josh McFadden | j.mcfadden@mycityjournals.com
Last season, the Mountain Ridge girls wrestling team placed second in state. With most of last year’s starters back this season, the Sentinels are favored to contend at state again when the big tournament takes place next month.
Count on the Merino sisters to make it to the podium.
Senior captain Gabi Merino and junior Olivia Merino are team leaders and talented wrestlers. Gabi is an example to her sisters and the other Sentinel wrestlers on and off the mat. Olivia is a returning state finalist who has big goals this season—for herself and the team.
“My goals for myself this season include improving my personal record and achieving a higher ranking in my weight class,” Olivia said. “For the team, I hope we can work together to win the championship and build a legacy of excellence at Mountain Ridge. I also aim to help my teammates improve and reach their individual goals, fostering a culture of success and mutual support.”
Her sister has similar aspirations, including capturing state championships for Mountain Ridge and for herself.
“The goals I have this season are making it to finals at state,” she said. “A goal for the team is to defend our region title and win state.”
The Merino sisters got interested in wrestling largely because of their brother, who competed. Intrigued by the sport, and driven to follow in his footsteps, they both started wrestling in junior high school the same year. Gabi was an eighth grader when she began wrestling; Olivia was a seventh grader.
Gabi loves wrestling with her sister. She also loves how much wrestling helps her to test her limits and be at her best.
“The thing I enjoy most about wrestling is the way it pushes me mentally and physically and seeing how much my body can endure,” Gabi said. “Another thing I enjoy is being able to do it all with my sister. The thing that motivates me is how far I’ve come, and I owe it to myself to keep going. From injury to mental blocks, all I’ve worked through has got me to where I am today, and it keeps me going in the hardest times.”
Olivia also enjoys the physicality of the sport.
“What I enjoy most about wrestling is the aggressiveness,” she said. “I’ve always gravitated toward more physical sports. I seek so much validation and motivation in this sport. I love that this sport is always pushing me to be better because there’s always things I can improve on.”
In the relatively short time that girls wrestling has been a sanctioned sport, Mountain Ridge has developed a strong culture. The program has been one of the best in the state. Both sisters agree that team unity and closeness are big reasons for the Sentinels’ success.
“The best thing about wrestling for Mountain Ridge is the friendships I’ve built that I’ll have for life,” Gabi said. “Also, my amazing coaches that have pushed me to be the best. The thing I like most about the team is the way we support each other. Whether it be at practice during hard conditioning or during matches, we are always cheering.”
Olivia is proud to be a part of the team and bear the Mountain Ridge name as she competes.
“The best things about wrestling for Mountain Ridge is the respect they give to me and my team,” she said. “I am honored and grateful that I have such a good school that I get to represent every weekend. What I love most about my team is that we push each other, and even though we are teammates, we’re not easy on each other. We push each other because we can see each other’s potential I love my team very much, and I’m glad I have such a good sisterhood to have my back.”
Gabi is a resilient wrestler. She has battled injuries but still comes to work every day ready to compete and get better. She doesn’t give up, even when things aren’t going her way. She takes her role as captain seriously.
“I bring leadership and physical ability to the team,” she said. “As a team captain, I make it a point to lead by example at all times.”
Olivia has high expectations of herself and is always looking for ways she can improve and contribute to the team. She said she also brings a “goofy, honest personality” to the team. Olivia exudes confidence on and off the mat.
“I expect my teammates to bring it to every practice and tournament, though I am understanding that everyone has an off day or a bad match,” Olivia said. “So, through those times I try to be there for them and listen if they need to talk.”
Both Gabi and Olivia intend to wrestle competitively after they leave Mountain Ridge.
Next season, Gabi is slated to wrestle at Utah Tech while pursuing her college studies. She also has enlisted in the Utah National Guard and will head off to basic training after high school. Olivia is confident that the lessons she has learned by wrestling for Mountain Ridge will stick with her throughout life.
“I believe that wrestling has taught me valuable life skills, such as discipline, perseverance and teamwork, which will be beneficial in my academic and professional pursuits,” Olivia said. “I hope to study a field that interests me and possibly pursue a career related to sports or fitness.”l
Gabi Merino (in red) pins an opponent in a match earlier this season. Gabi is a team captain for the Mountain Ridge girls wrestling team. Sisters Gabi and Olivia Merino are two of the top performers for the Mountain Ridge girls wrestling team. Both wrestlers are aiming to help their team to a state title. (Photo courtesy of Brandon Birch.)
(From left) Sisters Gabi and Olivia Merino are two of the top wrestlers for the Mountain Ridge girls wrestling team. The Sentinels were runners-up at state last season. (Photo courtesy of Brandon Birch.)
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it is a standalone piece,” Eaton said. While the show is appropriate for all audiences, the special effects and imagery could be a bit on the scary side for very young children. Eaton is particularly excited about the impact the dementors will make when they drift into close range of the audience.
Fifteen technicians working backstage and in the sound box will create effects to immerse audience members in the magical world of wizarding. The cast of 44 will bring the classic Harry Potter vibe on and off the stage.
Actors will be hosting a Wizard’s Lunch, a preshow magical experience held before the Feb. 22 Saturday matinee. Potter fans will be entertained by magical interactions with cast members while enjoying butter beer and other Potter-themed foods. Tickets for the 12:00 p.m. Wizards Lunch can be purchased in Riverton High School’s main office. The $20 ticket includes lunch and entrance to the matinee performance.
Riverton High School is one of just a few schools to get permission to perform this show, which is still running in New York on Broadway and in London’s West End.
“They limited how many schools get to do it, so it’s cool that they let us do it,” Eaton said.
This is the second limited-rights production show Riverton High School has performed this school year. Their fall production of “Hadestown: Teen Version” was one of only six productions permitted in Utah.
The high school version of “Cursed Child” is shorter than the original show, which premiered in London in 2016, winning nine Olivier Awards, including Best New Play, and premiered on Broadway in 2018, where it won six Tony Awards, including Best Play. The London production is a two-night show, but the Broadway version is consolidated into one night. The high school version is even more abbreviated, with a two-hour run time.l
JORDAN SCHOOL DISTRICT - Public Notices
SPECIAL EDUCATION CHILD FIND
Every child is entitled to a public education regardless of disability. Children with disabilities may go without services because families are not fully aware of their options. If you know of a child, birth to age 22, who is not receiving any education services or feel that your child may be in need of special education services, please contact your local school or call the Special Education Department in Jordan School District at (801) 567-8176
SPECIAL EDUCATION RECORDS DESTRUCTION
On January 31, 2024, Jordan School District will destroy special education records of students born prior to September, 1996. Former special education students who are 27 years old may request their records from the school last attended; otherwise, the records will be destroyed.
CARSON SMITH SCHOLARSHIP
Public school students with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) may be eligible for a scholarship to attend a private school through the Carson Smith Scholarship program. Further information is available at http://www.schools.utah.gov/sars/Scholarships.aspx
TURNING 65?
With visions of Jack White, Prince and Sophie Lloyd strumming in my head, I started taking guitar lessons last year to prove that old dogs can still be tricky. After months of lessons, I confidently state Jack White can rest easy. I won’t be coming for his job.
Guitar lessons have challenged my patience but expanded my capacity for playing incorrect chords on a slightly outof-tune instrument. I pluck through terrible-sounding riffs and know practice time is over when I drop the guitar pick in the sound hole for the hundredth time.
Each week, I meet with the ever-patient Emily at Guitar Center so I can go over my lesson. I spend most of the time trying to convince her I really did practice while ignoring the eye twitch she develops whenever I play an F chord.
She’ll give me advice like, “Press the strings harder” or “Change the position of your thumb” or “Maybe take up baking.” I go home and practice chords and strums and fingerpicking until even the dog leaves the room. But after practicing “Blowin’ in the Wind” for six weeks, my husband finally recognized the chorus.
I’ve gained an appreciation for guitar players, and I get enraged by people who say they taught themselves to play the guitar because that can’t possibly be a thing. Like every child in Utah, I took piano lessons, and that background has helped with counting and timing but that’s the extent of its helpfulness when it comes to the guitar.
The hubby and I visited Nashville in October, where even toddlers can play the intro to “Stairway to Heaven,” and it highlighted how much I still have to learn. Every dive bar had an exceptional guitarist strumming chords while holding a beer bottle. I ate chicken wings and sipped margaritas, mesmerized by their talent.
Time to face the music
Peri Kinder Life and Laughter
Not only were they exceptional, but they could play any song by heart. My brain has no storage capacity. My hard drive is full. I can’t memorize songs, and I can barely remember chord progressions. I’m still looking at chord charts like they’re hieroglyphics.
Learning guitar is mostly about finding new ways to use your nondominant hand. In theory, a plucked string should create a musical vibration. In reality, a plucked string provides a muffled thud because I’m not on my fingertips or I’m too far from the fret or I can’t stretch my hand into a barre chord or I’m just inept. All of those things can be true.
After I played “If I Had a Hammer” for several weeks, my husband said if he had a hammer he’d smash my guitar. Not nice. But fair.
I grew up listening to singers like Joan Baez, Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash. Mom and my aunt would visit assisted living centers (they were called rest homes in the ’70s) to sing and play the guitar, entertaining the captive audience. Sometimes I’d sing along and screw up their “Leaving on a Jet Plane” harmonies with my squeaky 8-year-old voice.
Learning to play the guitar is a connection to my late mom. I can’t say my guitar music honors my mom because no one deserves that kind of honor, but I can imagine her
smiling (and probably grimacing) whenever I pick up the guitar. Maybe there are earplugs in heaven.
Watching Prince perform at the Super Bowl, seeing Jack White in concert and hearing Sophie Lloyd shred has become an act of reverence. I stand in awe at their talent as I slowly pick through “Five Hundred Miles” for what feels like the 500th time.
