Sandy Journal | January 2025

A FIGHTER, A WRITER, AN AVID SKIER AND AN OPTIMIST—NOTHING STOPS HARRIET

By Rebecca Olds | rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com

Harriet Wallis is a fighter, a writer, an avid skier, an optimist and so much more.

She’d tell you she’s led an “average” life as the girl who was the last to get picked to do any team sport in school.

You would have never guessed her life would be what it is now given where she started in school— but she has been an active adventurer with a life full of outdoor activities and skiing the slopes.

Despite having two artificial hips and knees at the age of 84, Sandy resident Wallis continues to ski and maintain an active lifestyle, including walking daily, swimming weekly, participating in local bike club activities and working in her yard.

Skier

Her passion for skiing is really what started it all for her in her 30s when she first learned how to ski with her then-husband and two young children.

“My husband said, ‘I'm going to learn to ski,’” Wallis said. “Now, I thought that was something crazy people on the other side of the planet did. So I'm processing that thought and then he said, ‘And you can babysit the kids.’ And I said, ‘Over my dead body, we're all going to learn to ski,’ and so we did."

Learning to ski was a game-changer for how she saw herself for the rest of her life.

“I didn't think of myself as being athletic with volleyball and team sports,” she said. “When I learned to ski, I realized, ‘Hey, I can do this.’”

She has been skiing recreationally ever since and so have her kids.

Eventually, Wallis worked as a ski instructor for two different ski resorts on the East Coast before moving westward.

In Utah, even in her off years she still finds time to ski at least 40 days out of the season. Metal hips and all.

Outdoorswoman

Not too long after learning to ski, in 1974 Wallis and her family completed a challenge they’d accepted as members of the Appalachian Mountain Club to climb the 100 tallest mountains in New England.

“By world standards, they are not that high,” she admitted. But “the highest is 6,000-feet Mount Washington, but it gets some of the worst weather in the whole world.”

For three years, she and her family would drive every weekend, hike 25 miles on Saturday and head home on Sunday, just to do it all over again the next weekend.

She added mountaineering to her growing list of hobbies, including fishing, camping and biking.

She also describes herself as an avid fisherman and goes camping and biking regularly with her housemate Laurie when the weather is warm.

“I am not macho,” Wallis said. “I'm an average person who enjoys doing things outdoors and being active.”

This past year, the housemates volunteered to be a part of the safety team for the annual Bonneville Bike Club's 3,000 all-women fundraiser for Huntsman Cancer Institute.

Writer

Writing was a pastime that stemmed from her

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What does the future hold for Sandy City park strips? City councilmember advocates for change

By Rebecca Olds | rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com

“Weedy”

and “ugly” are both words commentators used to describe Sandy City park strips on a recent NextDoor post by Sandy City Councilmember Cyndi Sharkey.

“We seem to have (pun intended) a growing problem with park strips becoming weed strips,” Sharkey said.

Sandy City Land Development Code defines a park strip as “the landscape area within a public right-of-way located between the back of the street curb and the sidewalk or in the absence of a sidewalk, located between the back of the street curb and the property line.”

It’s a topic she’s felt passionate about for years and presented to the council in October to change. A suggestion she made was to alter an existing ordinance requiring developers to incorporate park strips into their plans—whether that be by simply not requiring them or by not allowing parking strips is up for debate by the council.

City administration doesn’t see the need to change how park strips are currently managed under the ordinance.

The case against park strips

At the very least, Sharkey hopes that by changing this fewer park strips will be built resulting in fewer unkept areas, saving the city money, reducing the water wasted in the city and making the most out of available space.

“I'm not looking to make a retroactive change,” she wrote in an email, emphasizing this would put no further regulations on existing park strips.

Sandy City Community Development Director James Sorenson acknowledged the negative impacts of park strips in an October memorandum including the maintenance factor mentioned by Sharkey, water use, weed growth, tree root damage, and the pollution of ice melt and slat from road de-icing.

Since 2020, weed complaints have become an indication of the growing weed con-

“Weedy”

cern (no pun intended) in the city. Complaints increased from 183 in 2020 to 505 in 2023 which is the highest of the last four years, according to code enforcement data Sharkey supplied to the council and public.

The specific issues of the current park strips go beyond their curb appeal, as the trees in the park strips can damage sidewalks. Hazardous circumstances, such as trip hazards caused by tree roots that break or lift the concrete, cost the city roughly $1.2 million every year with an 11-year waiting list for repairs, Sharkey said during the Oct. 22 city council meeting. Of the $1.2 million spent on sidewalk repair, 70% or $840,000 is spent specifically on damaged sidewalk repair from trees growing in a park strip.

Sharkey hopes fewer or no park strips will make for a better waterwise solution and be a more effective use of land with increasing prices and the growing housing shortage in the state.

The housing shortage in the state and growing prices of real estate are prompting smaller homes on smaller lots, which Sharkey argued, should not have the wasted space of a park strip.

“Park strips come with an inherent list of challenges,” Sharkey said. “These issues are the reason I propose that the city council give new attention to residential park strips, and to reconsider their value, purpose and need.”

The case for park strips

Shane Pace, Sandy's chief administrative officer, said several departments don’t see the need to get rid of park strips because of the limitations it would put on other departments in the city, including where to push snow on heavy snow days and the restricted access to utility and water lines.

“I don’t see the need to make a change since the opportunity to eliminate park strips is already available through the exception process

SANDY TEAM

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with the Planning Commission,” Pace said, noting that the city still has a “problem with lack of maintenance in our park strips and tree roots causing damage to our sidewalks.”

Pace also said with the city being an estimated 95% built out, changing the ordinance wouldn’t do enough to make a big difference.

In a letter to administrators, Sandy City Public Works Director Ryan Kump wrote that “the value of park strips to Public Works lies primarily in the real estate they provide.”

Park strips, Kump said, provide buffer space between vehicles and pedestrians, room for essential public infrastructure such as fire hydrants and lights and offer a temporary storage area for snow cleared from roadways.

City departments recognize the problems that Sharkey has acknowledged but believe there are different ways to fix the problem.

Martin Jensen, Sandy’s deputy chief administrative officer, said that “Flip My Strip” incentive programs exist through several different organizations in the state to help with beautifying and maintaining these areas by aiding in funding and offering ideas to reduce water waste.

“We have a beautiful, wonderful community that we can all be proud of being a part of,” Pace said. “We need to continue to work on these issues and hopefully over time resolve them.”

No decision has been made by councilmembers or administration, as this was only an information item and one won’t be made for several months as councilmembers discuss whether or not to change the park strip requirements for developers moving forward.

Public comment is welcome throughout the process and during the city council’s dedicated public comment period, as well as to Councilmember Sharkey at csharkey@sandy. utah.gov. l

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and “ugly” are both words commentators used to describe Sandy City park strips on a recent NextDoor post by Sandy City Councilmember Cyndi Sharkey. (Courtesy Sandy City)

love of pottery and shaping nearly five tons of clay into homemade goods each year while she lived in New England as her kids were growing up.

She lived in Connecticut and began writing for a local newspaper on different topics from the art she made and to how to cut costs on an expensive energy bill. Wallis worked her way up from a freelancer to a full-time paid writer for the paper. During her time there, she wrote on a “checkerboard” of topics including weddings, gardening and eventually skiing.

Wallis started writing for the City Journals when it was still the Valley Journals and still contributes to the online Cottonwood Heights Journal regularly.

Every year, she writes a year recap for friends and family.

Optimist

What’s driven her to keep going even when many people she knows have long given up on the active lifestyle she enjoys, is her optimism and willingness to adapt and change to her circumstances.

“It's thinking outside the box, finding ways to do things, and having a positive attitude,” she said. “It's much more fun to have a positive attitude than it is to be a downer. I think those are three things that make me tick.”

The health challenges that come with living a long life can’t stop her; she refuses to let them.

In recent years, despite a cancer diagnosis and difficult treatment, Wallis has continued to walk as she is able and adapt her activity to how she is feeling. But she doesn’t stop. She continued to ride her bike through the “agonizing side effects” of her chemo treatment.

Overall, Wallis strongly advocates for an optimistic, adaptable mindset as a key to overcoming challenges and continuing to live an active, fulfilling life.

“I think it's come about kind of as a lifelong thing,” Wallis said. “It's nothing that just popped up. But it's crucial to me now.”

Every year for the past few years, Wallis has chosen a new mantra she writes in her yearly Christmas letter which she plans to live by for the year to come.

Her 2025 mantra will be similar to those of years past—a positive one. She shares with family and friends a yearly letter stating 2025 will be a year in which she "expects the best—and works hard to achieve it.”

Her mantra for the year is “Quit looking back. You're not going that way.”

Wallis’s 85th birthday is on Jan. 7, and who knows what adventure she’ll be on.l

Harriet Wallis (far right) does a lot of her activities with her housemate Laurie, even volunteering as part of the safety team for the annual Bonneville Bike Club's 3,000 all-women fundraiser for Huntsman Cancer Institute. (Courtesy of Harriet Wallis)

JUAN DIEGO CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

Senior Service Project: A Journey of Social Justice and Compassion

At Juan Diego Catholic High School (JDCHS), the Senior Service Project is a transformative experience designed to immerse students in the realities of social justice through direct service to marginalized communities. This hands-on initiative aims to deepen students’ understanding of social inequalities by engaging them with people who have experienced being pushed to the fringes of society.

Every January, JDCHS seniors dedicate a week away from classes and exams to engage in community service. Students choose three agencies they are interested in serving, with placements assigned on a rst-come, rst-served basis. This year, JDCHS has partnered with 23 charitable organizations across Salt Lake and Summit counties.

The project’s core purpose is to educate

seniors about the complex issues surrounding social justice, teaching them empathy, compassion, and the importance of advocacy. Students are encouraged to work with organizations that serve vulnerable populations, including the homeless, people with disabilities, the elderly, and those a ected by poverty or discrimination. Through these interactions, students witness rsthand the challenges of being marginalized and gain a deeper appreciation for the dignity of every person.

In addition to fostering personal growth, the Senior Service Project also emphasizes the value of community and responsibility. Students re ect on their experiences, considering how their actions can positively impact and create a more just and inclusive society. By the end of the project,

JDCHS seniors not only developed a stronger sense of social responsibility but also carried forward the lessons of empathy and justice into their future endeavors.

Ultimately, the Senior Service Project embodies the Catholic values of love, service, and solidarity, preparing students to be compassionate leaders working for the common good in a diverse and often divided world.

JDCHS seniors will commence their Senior Service Project on January 27th in conjunction with National Catholic Schools Week.

About Juan Diego Catholic High School

Juan Diego Catholic High School in Draper, Utah, is a college-preparatory private school rooted in the Catholic tradition. Established in 1999, the school is part of the Skaggs Catholic Center, a comprehensive 57-acre campus that also houses Saint John the Baptist Elementary and Middle Schools and the Guardian Angel Child Development Center.

For more information on how to enroll or schedule a tour, visit jdchs.org or call 801-984-7650.

Favorite Sandy photos of 2024

Mayor Monica

the impressive crowd at the groundbreaking for new Fire Station 31. “We could have filled the RSL Soccer Stadium to capacity with the amount of enthusiasm that is mounting in our city for this groundbreaking today,”

said.

(Courtesy Sandy City)

Alta View Principal Scott Jameson gives a pig a smack after students surpassed their goal to raise $44,000 in their fun run fundraiser.

(Photo courtesy of Jessica Davies Photography)

Sandy Mayor Monica Zoltanski and Laurie Hopkins, executive director of Shelter the Homeless, present the new MVP Program building during a ribbon cutting ceremony in early 2024. (Photo courtesy of Sandy City)

Sandy

Zoltanski addresses

Zoltanski

Goalkeeper Thiago Moreira makes a save in a game earlier this season for the Alta boys soccer team. The Hawks placed second in Region 6 and reached the Class 5A quarterfinals. (Photo courtesy of @jackloinstagram)

Nikyli Scherbel receives the Youth Changemaker Award from Sandy Mayor Monica Zoltanski and Sandy City Royalty Tasia Alston.

(Photo credit Sandy Community Events)

Union Middle School students performed songs from past musicals, including “Newsies,” in their own production, “UMS Musicals: Awesome Mix Vol. 1.” (Photo courtesy of Union Middle School)

Two third-graders from Councilmember Alison Stroud’s class meet Sandy Mayor Monica Zoltanski’s horses that sparked her own involvement in city government. (Courtesy Sandy City) Below: Park Lane Elementary crossing guard Karen Hibler waves to a boy as he crosses the street.

(Rebecca Olds/City Journals)

Mayor Monica Zoltanski speaks to third, fourth and fifth graders at Glacier Hills Elementary about her “Care, Contribute, Connect” initiative on April 8. (Courtesy Sandy City)

Students made their own masks to celebrate Carnaval, one of several Alta View Spanish events held to teach them about Spanish culture. (Photo courtesy of Jessica Davies Photography)

Several Alta High students and groups performed traditional dances at Alta High’s multicultural assembly. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

The Sandy Arts Guild stages a youth musical every spring. This year was “Mean Girls Jr.” and ran March 20-23 at the Theater at Mount Jordan. (Ken Filmore Photography)

Newly elected Lewis aims to amplify youth voice on school board

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Salt Lake Community College political science student

Jackson Lewis is easily Canyons School District’s youngest board of education member in the District’s 15 year history. He may be the state’s youngest elected official ever.

At 19, he was elected to office. Two months later, in January, at age 20, he will be sworn in.

The last time Lewis was elected to office was as a second grader at Canyon Rim Academy in Millcreek, when his class was learning about government.

He has been in meeting after meeting since being elected. Recently, in a meeting with other school board members, state legislators and city officials, he learned about gang behavior in schools from local law enforcement officers.

“There's an issue with our schools now, specifically with THC (vaping) cartridges, and it’s what gangs are doing to recruit in schools along the Wasatch Front,” he said.

As a 2023 graduate, he isn’t far removed from walking into the high school bathroom, smelling weed.

“I’m grateful to be able to sit in on this meeting because I'm elected to serve a constituency, and I was sitting there brainstorming the entire time, ‘how are we going to work to make it better?’” he said. “I live right next to Union Park, so I see kids hanging out at the pavilion often with drugs; they should be in school.”

He realizes he’s more under a microscope as the youngster on the school board unlike Katie Dahle, who also was elected for the first time this term or re-elected member Holly Neibaur. He plans to use his fresh, firsthand experience as a recent student to address issues important to current students and educators.

“During my campaign, I talked about chronic absenteeism because I had firsthand issues with it so I'm bringing that perspective to the board, where we can address these issues,” he said.

It was during high school when he attended Skyline High that he had some family issues which impacted him.

“I struggled a lot with my mental health,” he said, adding it continued when he transferred to Hillcrest his senior year and where his sister now is a senior. “There was a period of my high school time, particularly senior year, where I was absent for a good chunk of it.”

Lewis said by “endlessly” talking to his Hillcrest counselor, Kimberly Walters, they found a way to get him motivated to return to school.

“I started the school day at 9 (a.m.) so I got the sleep I needed. Instead of starting the day in a lecture-based classroom or sitting there doing a worksheet, I started in weight training. As a teenage male, I love going to the gym, and that brought me into the school building; it got me to graduate,” he said.

Now, Lewis wants the school board to focus on the issue.

“We need to meet students where they are, find what makes students excited to go to school, and focus on getting kids to school. A lot of students have a big issue with getting out of bed and going to school every day. It's a post-COVID world. It's not just here; it’s a nationwide issue. We need to find a way to make sure students want to be in school and it will pull a lot of kids out of chronic absenteeism,” he said.

It won’t happen with one big “swoosh,” said former Alta High history and government teacher Rique Ochoa, who has analyzed campaigns and elections with his students.

“It’s a good thing he's being more specific, but does he have a plan to solve chronic absenteeism?” Ochoa said.

“He's going to have to institute small solutions initially to get people on board. Once he gets that and it’s moderately successful, he needs to look at ‘How will we expand this?’

He can’t expect change to be immediate; it’s going to be small, incremental steps, and then get a broader picture later. At 19, you come in with a lot of inexperience and a lot of great ideas, but practicality also has to come into play.”

As a teenager who prefers riding a scooter to driving, Lewis advocates for the best routes for students and pedestrians, wanting to move the Safe Walking Routes away from busy arterial roads into neighborhood streets with lower speed limits. He wants students to be able to ride UTA transit for free and supports UDOT’s proposed bike freeway.

“I want to create a partnership between the District, Salt Lake County, local city governments and the state department of transportation so when new infrastructure projects go up in this area…we design new pedestrian pathways…in a way students also can use them. I want this to be a conversation over my upcoming term,” he said.

Lewis became curious about the school board during a college and career readiness day in Karla Moosman’s English language arts class. He remembers learning about education bills passed in the legislature and realizing how complicated it was for the school board to put some in place because “they don’t get the resources they need from the state.”

At that point, he looked up who his board member was and the 18 years old age requirement, which then he hadn’t reached. Later in the year, he worked for the Office of Legislative Research and General Counsel when the local dem-

ocratic party offered their support for him to run.

“I was running for my community. I popped into the race expecting to lose to (then incumbent) Mont (Millerberg). He was an extremely important and major community figure,” Lewis said.

Lewis will serve in District 1, where Millerberg, a longtime member and board vice president, served until his unexpected death in February 2024. Lewis beat out Millerberg’s wife, Kris, who served in the seat following her husband, and ran as a write-in candidate. He also beat candidate Rainer Lilbook.

Lewis thinks he resonated with voters partially because of his age.

“A lot of the conversations I had were about my age. The perspective I bring to the board is of a former Hillcrest High School student and a lifelong resident of Midvale. I offered a perspective that has direct impact over thousands of very young people. Quite a few times I was told by voters, ‘a 19 year old on a school board makes perfect sense.’ People are just ready for new, young perspective,” he said.

Ochoa believes Lewis won for three reasons.

“First of all, many people don’t know school board elections. It’s like when you get your ballot and see all the judges to retain or not. Some people don’t know anything about them and start alternating yes and no because they don’t know,” he said. “The same thing may be true with school board members’ elections. Many people don’t know the candidates. For those who do, I think he may have resonated because he gave specifics on his campaign. He's going to make a ripple right from the start, because he's talking about specific problems. Others, who just talk generically, can take pretty much any action they want and say it supports teachers, or it supports education. Their campaigns deal with generalities, because who's going to say they're against supporting education, against the teachers, nobody is.”

Having Kris Millerberg as a write-in candidate also likely impacted the vote, and split the vote, he said.

In District 3, Dahle was elected to take the seat of longtime member and former board president Nancy Tingey, who is retiring. In District 7, Neibaur retained her seat on the board.

Canyons District Supt. Rick Robins said he welcomes the new board members and anticipates continued focus on students.

“I'm really excited for Jackson and for Kate, and I'm just so grateful to both of them for deciding to run for elected office,” he said. “The board has dynamics like a family as different people join. But our board has been great at assimilating and finding common ground and being able to stay focused on what's most important, students.”

That’s where Lewis is focused.

“My plan right now is to serve this full term; if Jackson Lewis, a year ago, got to look at the world now, he would not have expected anything that had happened this last year to happen,” he said. “I've always had a strong sense of what is right and wrong. I've always been into politics, I love policy. I want to leave the world a better place than when I was born, that's why I know politics is my calling; a great vessel for change is through politics. As a school board member, I have goals; I have plans. Obviously, compromise is not the enemy of progress, and I am not going to step on the District’s feet or my own feet for some purity test. That's not the politics. That's not the kind of person I am, but I do want to make a difference.” l

At age 20, Hillcrest High 2023 graduate Jackson Lewis will take the oath of office Jan. 7 and will become the youngest to ever serve on Canyons School’s Board of Education. (Photo courtesy of Jackson Lewis)

Retired RSL goalkeeper Rimando named to National Soccer Hall of Fame

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

NickRimando could have accepted a scholarship to play football in college, but instead he chose soccer.

Twenty-five years after leaving UCLA where he played for the national champions in 1997 and after 12 years playing for Real Salt Lake, the former professional soccer player is glad he chose soccer.

In an announcement on Dec. 3, 2024, which surprised the veteran goalkeeper, Rimando learned he will be inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame on May 3 in Frisco, Texas.

“I was here at the (American First) field doing an interview about my time here and wishing the (RSL) Academy good luck in their big tournament in California this weekend, when I was surprised,” he said about the announcement, with RSL administration orchestrating his family’s attendance. “It’s a really special moment.”

Rimando left college soccer after three years to turn professional. While at UCLA, he played goal when the Bruins won the College Cup; he also was a National Soccer Coaches Association of America’s second-team All-American in 1998, earned spots on the AllFar West region team twice, and was a threetime All-Mountain Pacific Sports Federation honoree.

After being drafted in the third round in 2000, Rimando played for the Miami Fusion, helping them win the 2001 MLS Supporters’ Shield. He played from 2002 to 2006 with D.C. United before being traded to Real Salt Lake in the winter of 2006-07.

In his first season with RSL, when the team played at Rice Eccles Stadium at the University of Utah, he led the MLS with 146 saves in 27 games and was named RSL’s 2007 most valuable player. Amongst his achievements during his tenure with RSL, he was named Major League Soccer Cup’s most valuable player in 2009 and helped Salt Lake set a MLS record for fewest goals allowed in a single season (20 goals in 30 matches).

“From the get-go, I played for this club that really didn't have an identity at that early stage to building a stadium (in 2008), a culture,

fans who believed and supported our team and the memories of bringing my family here, win or lose, it’s been incredible,” he said. “From when I was first welcomed to winning the 2009 MSL Cup to playing my last game in 2019 and being able to speak to my heart to the fans in the middle of the field, those are memories that are amazing. But even the losses, the big loss of the Champions League final, the Open Cup final, even those are memories that remind me of the hard work, the sacrifices, the times on the field.”

Although Rimando played for the United States national teams, two years on the under 20 team, and 16 years as a professional player, he appreciates his humble beginnings in Montclair, California.

“My parents coached sports, but neither of them played soccer,” he said. “They got me into everything, basketball, football, soccer, and I just gravitated towards soccer. I loved the game. I loved it was a team sport. I loved just

running around; there are no time outs.”

When Rimando was 10 or 11, his team’s goalkeeper got hurt.

“That's when I jumped in goal,” Rimando

said. “Since then, it’s where I was working. I didn’t want to play there at first, but when I was thrown in there, I loved it.”

Rimando chose pursuing soccer despite playing other sports and offers.

“I thought soccer would take me longer in my career,” he said.

And it did, being named an MLS all-star in 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2019 and appearing in (and starting in) 514 games, the most of any player since the men’s soccer league began in 1996. He also has records in the most minutes played, most saves, most shutouts and goalkeeping wins in league history.

Still involved in the Salt Lake community, a value instilled in him from his parents, Rimando offers advice to youth goalkeepers.

“Enjoy the moments — the good moments, the bad moments,” he said. “You don't get those back and learn from those situations. If it's winning, if it's losing, they all mean something in the end. Don't judge yourself nor compare yourself to somebody else. There are so many kids right now who see a kid make a team, if it's high school or club, and they just need to remember everybody has their own path. Just stick with it. If you love the sport, if you love college, if you love a subject, continue to stick with it. Everybody has their own path. Follow your own.” l

After learning he would be inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame, Nick Rimando spent the morning volunteering to give Midvale Elementary students new shoes despite having one arm in a sling from a rotator cuff injury. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Winning play: Strong foundation, drive power Huskies to success on and off court

When most Hillcrest High boys on the school basketball team graduate, they may not be signing with a college team. However, they will be taking some valuable lessons with them.

“I tell our athletes we want them to be good basketball players, but it's more important they leave our program more prepared for life,” Hillcrest head basketball coach Brandon Sluga said. “I want them to learn how to respect others and set themselves up to be prepared for the future to make the world a better place. They have a lot of opportunities to play basketball, but within basketball, there are opportunities to improve as a person. I talk to them and give them little tidbits, when there's teachable moments. As high school kids, they're going to do some exceptional things, and we praise that. When they don't do so well, we try to use that as a teaching moment that we can all learn.”

It's something he learned from his dad.

“My dad was superior at that; he tried to connect everything to life,” said Sluga, who before his coaching career played for his father, then became the University of Utah’s most famous walk-on player, playing for four years, including on the team that played in the NCAA finals in 1998.

Former Bingham High coach and Hall of Famer George Sluga often said he was in the business of building character, which was more important than the wins and losses. Even so, he helped create the winning history and pride within the school, coaching six teams to state titles and accumulating nearly 500 wins.

Brandon Sluga follows that philosophy, recently having opportunities to praise and educate his team.

“The way I started practice today is I told the kids how proud of them I was. I watched film, and in the film, we missed a lot of open shots in our last game, even though we won by 22. But I said, ‘Keep sharing the ball. It's beautiful basketball. We'll make more of those shots. They're going to fall. Just keep sharing it. I'm proud of how you guys love to pass the ball to each other,’” he said. “You can connect that to life. Like, ‘Are you happy when you do something for yourself or are you happier when you do something for someone else?’ Most meaningful things we do in life are team oriented. It’s rewarding to see kids get more excited for their teammate than themselves.”

At the first team practice, Sluga educated freshmen about the importance of team.

“I talked to them about how we should respect each other and how you can't be successful if you're fighting with your teammate. I related it to family and said, ‘There are times where in our family, we don't always get along perfectly, and you don't necessarily agree with each other 100% of the time, but you can respect the person and find common ground to work together,’” he said. “It’s an opportunity to teach them that value.”

Sluga, who has coached at Hillcrest since

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

2020, also praises his seniors, who have become leaders on and off the court.

“I’m proud of my senior class. This is our first senior class who has made it through our program since Bantam league. They understand the value of teamwork. They do an awful lot together. They're good friends, not just teammates. That's something I can't take a credit for. The neat thing is their friendship shows on the floor. I've coached fun teams in the past, and this is probably the most fun I've had at this level. It's how close the kids are and their desire to be successful. Some things I can't coach, they just have it. They grew up playing with each other, they know how to help and make each other better,” he said.

In fact, the players on their own decided to commit to five hours of basketball per weekday this past summer.

“The main things I did with them was lift weights, occasional open gyms and our spring and summer leagues and tournaments. But it was the boys who wanted to have consistent work and took it upon their own to work out. I have a senior class that really wants to win and do well,” he said.

That desire to play well combined with playing together for years is showing on the floor as the Huskies started the season 3-1, led by senior co-captain Myles Mahler, who returned from a knee injury.

“We have three guys back who started last year. Myles is like a whole new kid; he had knee surgery, and it's healed up extremely well. He's our leading scorer so far through the first four games. He's averaging 17 points a game, and seven or eight rebounds,” he said, adding Myles’ twin, Anton, and junior Ezra Bell also are returning starters. “It’s been a fun year so far. Even the game we lost, we were right there to win. Those are games we feel like we'll win

down the road. We're going to keep getting better.”

Also in his rotation are seniors Guillermo Martinez, Thomas Ashby and Josh Pike, who is a co-captain. Ashby’s younger brother, Tyler, who is a sophomore, also is in the rotation as well as junior Jay Watkins, Grady Court and Jack Bradburn.

The coaches’ preseason poll placed Hillcrest third in region, behind the state’s 4A No. 1 and 2 seeds, Cottonwood High and Murray High, respectively.

“I told our players we have as good of teams in our region as there are in the state and we can compete with the best of them,” he said. “We play a lot of different defenses. We are a bit smaller and quicker this year so we're trying to make the most of those assets. We're scoring a lot more this year. We do like to get up and down the floor, but we can play half court as well. We’re playing at a high speed and it's a fun brand of basketball.”

The team will play Olympus High and Mountain View High in a tournament late December, followed by Cedar Valley High before Region 10 play begins.

“We'll be well prepared with the start we've had; we're excited to get to region,” Sluga said.

JV and sophomore teams are 3-1, with the freshman team, 4-0.

“It looks like we're starting to see the fruits of those labors for years now. Our Bantam program has about 80 kids again, between fifth and eighth grade; they are going to continue to play and develop. We're building something that's sustainable. Our coaches are work-

ing hard to keep kids developing, working on skills and their knowledge. We have parents involved, who are helping facilitate the program,” he said.

Sluga not only is proud of is how well the team has played and fundraised for their uniforms, tournaments and opportunities to play, but also of their academic successes.

“Five boys in the senior class have a combined GPA of 3.5 and three of them have a 3.9. I’m proud of their academics. But there's one boy on the team who has a family situation, and he struggles. We made a goal with him to go to school every day, and I'm proud when he tells me, ‘Coach, I went to school; I made up this, I did that.’ He's making progress toward graduation. Everybody's success is not the same, but everyone can have some success, and those habits bleed over into your team, and you have more success as a group. That young man, he’s building habits that down the road will pay off for him and give him other opportunities outside of basketball,” he said.

That value reflects lessons he learned from his coach and dad, who at 82, will watch some Husky games.

“He’ll still give me tidbits, but if you asked him what the most important things are, it would not be the X's and O's,” Sluga said. “The X's and O's are fun, and that's part of why we love basketball, but the more important part is just helping people grow for their future. Most aren’t going to be like me and stay in basketball. They're going to do other things with their lives, but hopefully those lessons they learn through basketball can help them out along the way.” l

Hillcrest junior Ezra Bell, seen here last season, is a returning varsity starter for the Huskies. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Seen coaching his team on the court, Hillcrest High head basketball coach Brandon Sluga says, “The X's and O's are fun, and that's part of why we love basketball, but the more important part is just helping people grow for their future.” (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Senior Anton Mahler, seen here blocking a shot against Jordan High last season, has helped the Huskies with a 3-1 start this season. (Julie Slama/ City Journals)

Best Practices in Supporting Patients & Families

Best Practices in Supporting Patients & Families as they prepare for End of Life and Grief

Wednesday, January 29, 2025

Wednesday, January 29, 2025

Wednesday, January 29, 2025

In Person Location: Larkin Sunset Gardens (1950 E 10600 S, Sandy, UT 84092)

In Person Location: Larkin Sunset Gardens (1950 E 10600 S, Sandy, UT 84092)

In Person Location: Larkin Sunset Gardens (1950 E 10600 S, Sandy, UT 84092)

also be held online via Zoom 9:00 am - 2:30 pm

Event also be held online via Zoom

9:00 am - 2:30 pm

5 CEUs (1 Ethics)

Event will also be held online via Zoom

5 CEUs (1 Ethics)

This training is free but registration is required. Continental breakfast and lunch to be provided.

This training is free but registration is required. Continental breakfast and lunch to be provided.

9:00 am - 2:30 pm

5 CEUs (1 Ethics)

Continental breakfast and lunch to be provided. is training is free but registration is required.

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https://utahnursing.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4TJzEqlevFHx58G

Or scan the QR code

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Please Join Us for Our Upcoming Advance Planning Events!

Discover the peace of mind that comes with planning ahead. Learn about the benefits of advance funeral and cemetery planning, and why it makes sense for you and your family.

UPCOMING EVENT:

LOCATION: Le Jardin, 1910 Dimple Dell Rd, Sandy, UT 84092

DATE: Tuesday, 1/28/25

TIME: 12:00 PM OR 6:00 PM

RSVP: (801) 829-1772

Space is limited, so please RSVP now!

With bright and open amenity spaces and warm and spacious residences, Crescent offers customized, compassionate care for you or a loved one. Whether it’s helping with life’s daily activities, improving mobility, coordinating care with your physicians, or making sure you look your best for one of our exciting events, you can count on us to be there.

Bucha, Ukraine to become Sandy’s new sister city

By Rebecca Olds | rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com

The Sandy City Council was presented and voted on a proposal by Councilmember Ryan Mecham to establish a new Sister City relationship with Bucha, Ukraine on Nov. 19.

Though the item on the agenda wasn’t a voting item, it was passed by unanimous vote the same night by the council.

Mecham said the relationship will “allow Sandy to participate in cultural and student exchanges, and promote economic cooperation, tourism and humanitarian efforts.”

Sandy City already has two existing Sister City relationships since 2002 with Piedras Negras, Mexico and Riesa, Germany, which Mecham said had a lot to do with the Olympics coming to Utah.

This new proposal comes as Bucha continues to rebuild after suffering immense devastation during the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The city gained international attention for the atrocities committed against its residents which killed at least 30,000 civilians and displaced millions, becoming a symbol of the war’s brutality.

Nov. 19 was the 1,000th day since the first attack on Bucha on Feb. 24, 2022.

Establishing a Sister City relationship with Bucha would offer Sandy residents an opportunity to engage in cultural exchange and provide support for the Ukrainian city’s

recovery efforts.

Sandy resident Josh Chandler was a strong supporter of the Sister City proposal and spoke during the period of public comment in favor of it.

“I hope we can all agree that by entering into a Sister City, we have the opportunity to stand up for the things that unite us as people, the things that make humanity good,” Chandler said. “We have the opportunity to get out of it what we’ll put into it.”

Representatives from the Utah nonprofit organization August Mission were also in attendance supporting the proposal.

In addition to Bucha’s need, Mecham said that a big part of why Bucha is the proposed city is because of the several connections that Sandy and Utah residents have with the country. Millions of dollars of aid that Utahn Dell Loy Hansen has put into the surrounding area to house Ukrainians who lost their homes.

Mayor Monica Zoltanski pointed out another tie with Ukraine including a group of firefighters from the country who participated in the 2022 World Firefighter Competition at the Shops at South Towne. David Jack the recipient of the 2023 Global Citizen Award and Sandy resident hosted the six Ukrainian athletes at his home during the event.

“The time is ripe and the time is right for us to establish this sister city relationship,” Zoltanski said. “There’s a lot of support and solidarity coming between Utah and Ukraine and it’s happening right now.”

Zoltanski said that she’s talked with Bucha’s mayor, Anatoliy Petrovych Fedoruk, about the arrangement and the city’s admin-

istration and residents look forward to partnering with Sandy City and modeling their government more after the United States’ democracy.

A formal agreement is in the works and is expected to be signed by the mayors of both cities and council chair Zach Robinson in the coming months. l

Bucha, Ukraine gained international attention for the atrocities committed against its residents which killed at least 30,000 civilians and displaced millions, becoming a symbol of the Russia and Ukraine War’s brutality. (Adobe photo)

Young Sandy chef battles for sweet victory in Kids Baking Championship

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

The heat is on for 11-year-old Arielle Yang from Sandy. She was chosen to participate in Food Network’s new season of Kids Baking Championship where young bakers face animal-inspired challenges as they compete for a sweet prize package that includes the title of Kids Baking Champion, $25,000 and a feature in Food Network Magazine.

Arielle is one of a dozen contestants from the U.S. and Canada who will use their creativity and baking skills to impress the judges and hosts, Duff Goldman and Kardea Brown. She said although the competition was awkward and intimidating at first, she soon jumped into the fun of the show.

“My favorite part was probably the friends I made,” Arielle said. “We had really good friendships. I think we became friends pretty quickly, because we already had something that we could bond over: baking.”

Arielle attends Waterford School and has been interested in baking for several years. She liked watching her mom, Grace Dong, when she made birthday cakes and cupcakes. That inspired her to explore different parts of baking and decorating.

“When I was 7 or 8, I was watching some YouTube videos of people piping flowers, and I got really interested in it,” Arielle said. “So one day I wanted to try it and I did. Even though they weren’t the best, they were kind of floppy, I liked baking a lot and started baking more and more.”

Kids Baking Championship challenges the contestants to create animal-themed treats, featuring everything from sea creatures to jungle dwellers to farm animals. Chicken the parrot and a cockatoo named Teva make an entrance in the first show that kicks-off the 10-episode season.

The first test the kids faced was creating a tart with an animal texture like scales, feathers, fur or fins, plus they had to add an edible tail in a late-breaking twist. The final challenges include creating cookie animal houses with an edible water trough and baking zoo-inspired cakes.

“Kids Baking Championship is a celebration of the amazing things kids can do in the kitchen, not only with their baking and decorating skills but also in how they support each other even while competing,” said Betsy Ayala, head of content at Warner Bros. Discovery. “With animals as the inspiration the creations are adorable, and the kids are exceptional in the most heartwarming way.”

Arielle learned several life lessons during the taping of the show that premieres on Monday, Jan. 6 on Food Network and streams on Max the following day.

“I think that my biggest lesson is that when things don’t go right, you need to find creative ways to fix it,” Arielle said. “When you’re working under pressure, you can make mistakes. When you make mistakes, you have to find a creative way to solve it and just not cry.”

Dong encouraged her daughter to submit an application to be on the show because she knew Arielle would be up to the challenge. She said she’s watched Arielle learn life skills that will help her in the future where she’d like to open her own bakery selling cakes, eclairs and macarons.

“She’s always enjoyed baking,” Dong said. “For the last two or three years, she taught herself so much about baking and decorating. I was super impressed by what she’s made, especially for my birthday. I was really impressed by her ability to work under

pressure. Even adults have problems working under pressure with a time limit.”

Arielle’s favorite animals are dogs and pandas, but she can’t say yet if she was able to incorporate those creatures into the baking

competition. She hopes other kids will watch the show and be inspired to experiment with different types of baking and decorating. Follow Arielle’s journey on Kids Baking Championship at Foodnetwork.com. l

Sandy resident, 11-year-old Arielle Yang, competes on the upcoming season of Food Network’s Kids Baking Championships. The show premieres on Monday, Jan. 6. (Photo courtesy of Food Network)

Arielle Yang presents her creation to hosts Duff Goldman and Kardea Brown on Food Network’s Kids Baking Championship: Amazing Animals. (Photo courtesy of Food Network)

Honoring service: Canyons’ superintendent recognizes dedication of outgoing school board members

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Twelve years ago, when middle schoolers were born, pre-pandemic issues in education focused on teacher pay, need for increased technology and student college and career readiness.

Canyons School District’s Board of Education member and former president Nancy Tingey not only witnessed it all, but she worked to find solutions for them all.

Never one to focus on herself, but compliment those around her, Tingey led the board to increase teacher salaries and provide support for student learning and preparedness for their future.

She also navigated Canyons through the pandemic, often working with then new Superintendent Rick Robins.

“Through the pandemic with the different voices, the passion and the issues we faced, one thing I remember most is Nancy would always say to us, ‘Listen, listen to the silent majority; listen to those who are not speaking,’” Robins said. “I always took that to heart, because in these jobs, sometimes we get so many different voices from different angles, and we try to listen to all, but Nancy would always remind us to listen to the silent too. She’d

ask, ‘What are those who are not speaking really saying to us?’ Those people send their kids to us, they trust us and they love their schools and their teachers. They may not voice it in an email or come to a board meeting, but we need to listen to them too. That is something I learned from her in leadership, and it applies to keep balance in the issues we face in the district. She taught me that great lesson.”

Tingey is retiring from the school board at the end of this term, but she still plans to volunteer at Quail Hollow Elementary.

“Nancy’s impact and legacy is a true example of what a servant leader is,” Robins continued. “I've been fortunate to work with her as superintendent. To see her calm, steady hand guide the District all those years has been really impressive, and we're going to miss her leadership and her dedication to Canyon School District. If there's a person that really symbolizes the birth of this district and what it has meant to this entire community, it’s her.”

Fellow board member, Kris Millerberg, also will leave the board and has plans to help in schools. She stepped up

to fill the position after the February 2024 death of her husband, Mont Millerberg, who served the board since its infancy.

“Kris came in at a time when Mont passed away, when there was a lot of anxiety about his position as he was an icon in Canyons School District,” Robins said. “She stepped into her husband's shoes being a stalwart and it turned out, we needed her style of leadership. She stabilized the situation, bringing a calm leadership. I appreciate how she’s always positive and she’s often in our schools and at schools’ activities. Her commitment and dedication to the District is notable, and knowing Kris, she will continue to support Canyons Education Foundation. That’s something she and her family have really taken to heart. I see the Millerberg family continuing to be part of our District going forward.”

He said he appreciates their hours of service, their positive and calm leadership and willingness to serve.

“They’re both great servant leaders who support our students and our teachers,” he said. “We’re most grateful.” l

South Jordan business named one of 100 Companies Championing Women

NeuroHealth

in South Jordan (10437 S. Temple Drive) was recently named as one of 100 Companies Championing Women in Utah. The clinic provides transcranial magnetic stimulation to help those battling depression, OCD or recurring migraines.

Created by the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, the Cox-Henderson Administration and the Utah Women & Leadership Project in 2022, the 100 Companies Championing Women initiative encourages businesses to provide family-friendly policies and promote women in the organization.

NeuroHealth was named to the 2025 100 Companies Championing Women cohort, recognized for building a family-centered company culture.

“As an employer, we have focused on creating a work environment that is attractive to the modern woman in Utah,” NeuroHealth Manager Jason Corbridge said. “Each employee is empowered to make decisions to positively impact the experience of our patients.”

Pay equality, flexible parental leave and scheduling, and a family-first mentality helped NeuroHealth attain the status of 100 Companies Championing Women. NeuroHealth CEO Bryan Scott said creating a workplace where women feel comfortable was imperative when starting the business.

“Not only is it the right thing to do, but those working in the mental health space must be compassionate and empathetic,” Scott said. “I believe that these skills are more innate in women than in men. By not putting these policies in effect, we would have made it harder for us to find the right caregivers. Our goal is to help people suffering from depression and anxiety, we take that into account in every policy we create.”

Corbridge said the majority of NeuroHealth’s patients are women suffering from postpartum depression, major depressive disorders, anxiety or OCD tendencies. He believes it’s critical

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

to hire women who can connect with and support other women who are taking steps to improve themselves and their mental health.

Moving forward, NeuroHealth will continue to staff the clinic with women who are in the best situation to help those struggling with mental health issues.

“There are so many voices out there that tear people down,” Corbridge said. “Expectations and pressures that make life seem unbearable. These fantastic women in our clinic help fight that, and when people leave, they leave feeling better. They ensure every experience here is a positive one.”

According to WalletHub’s 2024 Best States for Women results, Utah ranks 36th in women’s economic and social well-being and ranks 35th overall. The state’s Inspire in Utah initiative is designed to support women in business at every level and to offer resources to help them succeed.

Other companies in the 100 Companies Championing Women 2025 cohort include Mortenson, Mountainland Technical College, Squeeze, MAG and What Utah Makes. For more information, visit InUtah.org.

Scott is the publisher of The City Journals, a company that was named in the 2024 cohort of 100 Companies Championing Women. The City Journals implements recruitment strategies to encourage women to apply for positions with the company while creating flexible work schedules and remote work options.

“I couldn’t be more proud of the team we put together at NeuroHealth,” Corbridge said. “These women care and go above and beyond to help everyone who walks in our door. They make sure every patient feels safe, secure and accepted.”

To learn more about NeuroHealth’s treatment options, visit NeuroHealthUtah.com. l

NeuroHealth was recognized as a 100 Companies Championing Women business. Women make up 75% of the company’s employees. From left, Elizabeth Sweat, Sophia Pitts and Jazlynn Powell work at the office in South Jordan. (Photo courtesy NeuroHealth)

At a Dec. 3 reception, current and former colleagues came to thank Canyons School District’s Board of Education member and former president Nancy Tingey for her 12 years of service. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

h ealth & W ellness

By Rebecca Olds

Moving and getting in shape doesn’t have to be a chore.

Finding something that you enjoy doing makes exercising and being active feel more like play rather than work, while still giving you the same or better benefits as visiting a normal gym.

Unique fitness experiences exist around Salt Lake County which offers unique excursions and experiences like a new underwater yoga flow, an educational and adventurous late-night snowshoe tour, and so much more.

Here are six fitness adventures including indoor and outdoor fun for all skill levels:

Yoga with the Sharks at Loveland Living Planet Aquarium (Draper)

There’s a certain type of Zen to obtain surrounded by shark-infested waters. Loveland Living Planet Aquarium offers an hourlong instructor-led class in front of a tank teeming with sea creatures on select Monday nights.

Allison Barker, director of development and chair of the Conservation Committee at Loveland Living Planet Aquarium said many participants have said the unique atmosphere creates a peaceful environment with many health benefits including “the gentle rhythm of the water and the mesmerizing movements of the sharks, fish and sea turtles” helping to reduce stress and anxiety.

“Ultimately, Yoga with the Sharks offers a transformative experience combining physical and mental benefits,” she said. “By practicing yoga in such an unusual and beautiful setting, participants gain a deeper appreciation for themselves and the natural world.”

The 2025 dates will be released near the end of December.

Included with the event is admission to check out the rest of the aquarium, but you’ll probably want to go earlier than

the class time from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. because the aquarium closes at 8 p.m. The class is open to 8-year-olds and older.

Registration is online and costs $25. The aquarium recommends bringing your own equipment but has some for new yogis.

Momentum Indoor Climbing (Millcreek, Sandy)

If you’ve never gone rock climbing, no biggie. It’s a new year to try new things and Momentum is a great place to learn. The Sandy location offers a variety of classes including belay instruction, rope climbing and even bouldering for any skill level.

“Our class structure is designed with progression in mind so that there’s always something for you to learn and work toward no matter your current ability,” is the Momentum mission.

If learning to climb isn’t your thing, the gym also offers yoga and group fitness classes.

Sign-up is online.

Intro to aerial class at Aerial Arts of Utah (Salt Lake City)

Think Zendaya in “The Greatest Showman”—that could be you this year. Granted, it’s a beginners class for more than just trapeze, Aerial Arts of Utah is offering quite the deal at $90 for three one-hour classes every Wednesday night.

The class is an introduction to several different types of aerial fitness, including fabric and static trapeze for those aged 13 years or older. Sign-up is online. Onyx Pole and Aerial Fitness Studio, hoop, pole, silks and hammock classes (Sandy)

In one studio, there are at least five different aerial fitness classes to choose from. Onyx offers everything from pole workouts to silks and hoops for differing levels of ability. The hammock beginner

2025 near Salt Lake County

class (1.0) is referred to as the “perfect class to not only begin your journey but to keep coming back to build those forever essential movements.”

Most classes range from beginner (1.0) to pro (4.0).

Paddleboard yoga in a natural hot spring (Midway)

The name of the Midway Crater is becoming more well-known as a unique spot to visit in Midway, but did you know that you could not only swim in it but it’s large enough to do paddleboard yoga in?

Midway Crater offers a paddleboard yoga execution that offers a unique opportunity to find your Zen in one of nature’s beautiful (and oldest) yoga studios. Blue 95-degree Fahrenheit mineral water offers an inviting cushion if you fall in.

Booking can include just the paddleboard experience or be bundled with hiking, snowshoeing and more. Park City Yoga Adventures also offers yoga in a backcountry yurt, mountaintop yoga and winter forest meditation. Book online.

Cottonwood Canyons Foundation offers four types of snowshoe guided tours, with three open to the public. For the first time, the foundation is offering tours free of charge to celebrate their 25th anniversary, including a special treat with their moonlit tours.

“It's a wonderful night when you get to hear the great horned owls calling, and you get to see some good dark skies up there,” said Liz Anderson, Cottonwood Canyons Foundation education director.

Anderson said that tours start up again on Jan. 24 and are offered every Friday and Saturday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. in January and February, and 7 to 9 p.m. in March. All you need to do is bring some snow shoes and preferably a red flashlight, poles optional. Come ready to learn more about the native wildlife.

Registration opens one month before the event date on cottonwoodcanyons.org/events.

Guided full moon snowshoe tour by Cottonwood Canyons Foundation (Alta)

(Courtesy Loveland Living Planet Aquarium)

Creating healthy financial habits in the new year

By Holly Curby | hello@hollycurby.com

As we begin a new year many people set goals of unlocking their financial freedom as they strive to live a purposeful life. Sarah Fernandez, personal financial expert, claims, “The journey to financial freedom begins with acknowledging the importance of having a financial plan.” She emphasizes that a well-structured financial plan not only clarifies your current economic status, but also empowers you to make informed decisions. “Financial success is not just about numbers,” Fernandez said, “it's about mindset and discipline.” She highlights the importance of living within your means while still enjoying life's pleasures and encourages you to take control of your financial future in the new year through the following four ways.

1. A key indicator that money might be dictating your life is often referred to as “the vanishing paycheck phenomenon.” This is where you live paycheck to paycheck which can often produce a feeling of being overwhelmed by expenses. Fernandez suggests in situations such as this to focus on the concept of “having versus experiencing” and how it affects spending habits.

2. Cultivating a mindset for financial success. Fernandez encourages people to

adopt an abundant mindset and likens this to a growth mindset, where the belief that improvement is always possible fuels your financial journey. This mindset shift not only focuses on progress and improvement, but is essential for overcoming financial stress and achieving long-term goals. Fernandez reiterates that this perspective shift allows individuals to live their best life at the moment while working toward a brighter financial future.

3. Understanding how family upbringing can shape financial habits is vital, especially in relationships where partners may have different spending and saving tendencies. By recognizing these differences, couples can work together to align their financial goals,

foster a sense of unity and understanding while building a prosperous future. “By having open and honest conversations about spending habits and priorities, couples can create a financial plan that supports their shared dreams and aspirations,” Fernandez said.

4. Credit card usage is a double-edged sword that requires careful management. While the perks of earning miles or cash back are enticing, it's important to use credit responsibly to avoid potential pitfalls. From personal experience Fernandez stresses the necessity of self-awareness in financial decisions. “Setting boundaries and knowing when to steer clear of credit misuse are crucial steps in maintaining financial discipline” Fernandez said. Fernandez dives deeper into practical advice on how to navigate these challenges effectively in her interview on Holly’s Highlights podcast (season 3 episode 13).

“Financial freedom is attainable for anyone willing to put in the effort and make informed decisions” Fernandez said. “By cultivating a mindset of abundance, setting clear goals, and managing finances responsibly, individuals can transform their financial habits and pave the way for a successful future.”

Tune in to the complete interview with Fernandez on Holly’s Highlights podcast Season 3 Episode 13 for expert tips, personal anecdotes, and actionable strategies that will equip you with the tools needed to master your financial journey. Whether you're single or in a relationship, young or old, Fernandez's insights will inspire you to take charge of your financial destiny and live a life full of purpose. Holly’s Highlights podcast is available wherever you listen to podcasts including Apple podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, Tune-in and on www.HollyCurby.com.

Children learn healthy financial habits at a young age. (Photo courtesy of Holly Curby)

Full interview with Sarah Fernandez available on Holly’s Highlights podcast. (Photo courtesy of Sarah Fernandez)

How assisted stretching helps relieve pain and improve mobility

By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com

As we get into the cold months and lose the desire to go outside, we can become stagnant, sitting inside all the time. While some people may have more upbeat jobs, moving around throughout the day, some people are stuck inside, sitting at a desk all day.

We’ve all heard the benefits of regular exercise and the importance of stretching afterward, Dec. 11 was even National Stretching Day. But what about assisted stretching?

It’s not something widely known, but it may have more benefits than regular athome stretching. Stretch Zone is hoping to make it more well-known.

“We want to not be the best kept secret anymore,” said Jennifer Gibbs, general manager at the Draper Stretch Zone.

The company, founded in 2004 by Jorden Gold, started with an experience close to his heart. After watching his grandfather’s growing limitations due to diabetes, he decided to start helping his grandfather through assisted stretches. Within a year, his grandfather went from not being able to walk, to walking with a walker, to a cane, to dancing at his cousin’s wedding all through that stretching.

At this point, Gold knew he had to do something more, to help others that may be going through what his grandfather went through or to prevent them from getting to that point.

“The whole reason that I started Stretch Zone was sparked from watching my grandfather becoming immobile because of his diabetes,” Gold said in a statement. “It motivated me to develop a proprietary stretching method that I hoped would prevent others from having to see themselves and the people in their lives suffer in the same way.”

There are now four locations in Utah, one of them being in Draper, another in Cottonwood Heights. The practitioners at Stretch Zone offer a new approach to improving range of motion and flexibility. While traditional stretching methods can make you more flexible, it may take some time. Assisted stretching can get you there faster because you don’t have to think about the stretches you’re doing, or worry about other muscles aside from the one you’re stretching.

“So instead of walking around at 80% or 90%, super tight and stretched all the time, they can just live in a more manageable, normal, relaxed way and these changes become more lasting,” Gibbs said.

Assisted stretching can benefit everyone, even if you don’t feel like you have problem muscles. For those sitting at an office all the time, they are stuck in the same position, cramping muscles that should be able to stretch and move throughout the

day. Stress can also play a large part in muscle tension.

Assisted stretching can help reduce everyday pain and help people move more fluidly for longer periods of time. Gibbs said she’s seen a number of different types of people walk through the Stretch Zone doors. Office workers that need to get away from cramped muscles, gymgoers and marathon runners preparing for races, older adults, even CEOs that may be more stressed than others.

Gibbs said assisted stretching can also help when there’s been trauma involved, like a car accident or surgery.

“The body is so wise,” she said. “It develops all these mechanisms that get all tangled up. And then you have another thing and another thing, then it’s hard to unwind yourself.”

She said developing that range of motion back, assisting and breaking down scar tissue that develops prevents movement. She’s seen people in recovery and also people anticipating a surgery. She said assisted stretching can help loosen muscles before they’re put through surgery to stop it from yanking something around that shouldn’t move.

“The body is so amazing,” Gibbs said. “How it can heal itself with something so holistic, like a stretch.”

Usually, clients at a Stretch Zone start going multiple times a week, maybe two or three times, then as time goes on and they begin to heal, they’ll only need to come twice a month for routine maintenance.

One of Gibbs’ favorite stories to share is a marathoner that started coming in 12

ed up helping the client cut down on their race time.

“It’s keeping them healthy, too,” Gibbs said.

Many of their clients say they’ll stick with assisted stretching their entire lives. Heather Hemingway-Hales shares this point of view. Hemingway-Hales is still as active as ever, doing regular exercise, yoga, cycling, mountain biking and participating in 50-plus races. She comes in regularly to Stretch Zone.

“Just coming in here and getting this deep stress really helps,” Hemingway-Hales said.

Stretch Zones are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and open for half-days on Saturday.

Gibbs said if you’re curious about assisted stretching, to try it out for a complimentary first visit.

weeks before a race to stretch their muscles, mainly the hamstrings and hip flexors. Doing this routinely for those 12 weeks end-

“I just encourage open invitation to anybody to just give the studio a call,” she said. “So I just invite anybody to come in and try it out, because it is such a new concept.” If you want to learn more about Stretch Zone and what they offer, you can visit stretchzone.com to find the location closest to you.

Stretch Zone patented their table with their “championship belt” to stop clients from falling off the table.

(Bailey Chism/City Journals)

Turn New Year’s fitness goal into lasting habits

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Nearly half of the people worldwide set a New Year’s resolution to improve their health.

A 2024 Forbes survey reveals 23% of U.S. participants fail in the first week and 43% drop out by February.

This trend is something Steve Espinosa, a nationally certified personal trainer at VASA's Draper gym, sees firsthand when the gym sees a spike in attendance during January and February, only to taper by March.

“It's their New Year's resolution to start working out and they have a long-term goal, but usually, it’s not specific enough for them to stick with it,” said Espinosa, who serves as the gym’s lead trainer. “Often people’s resolutions are too general, like, ‘I want to lose weight,’ ‘I want to get into the gym to build muscle or do a pull up.”

One of the first things he asks new clients is “Why do you want to come to the gym?”

Many respond with a desire to lose weight, but Espinosa digs deeper.

“Often, it’s not just about losing weight; it’s about feeling more comfortable in their bodies and gaining confidence — and that’s the why,” he said, adding often the answer

is tied to emotional reasons or to prevent health problems they’ve seen in others.

One of Espinosa’s clients, a 60-yearold woman started training three years ago, fearing she was following the same sedentary path as her mother.

“Her daily life has become easier with improved fitness. She’s stronger, more confident and skiing — and doing activities she never thought she could do, without being worried about being sore or getting hurt,” he said.

Unlike the vague New Year’s resolutions which often lead to early burnout, Espinosa works with clients to set specific, achievable goals. He recommends writing down goals to make them tangible and breaking them into smaller, incremental steps.

“You need to have a specific goal. Ask yourself, ‘What am I trying to achieve every month?’ A goal of going to the gym three times a week is a more realistic and attainable goal,” he said. “Set mini-goals, whether it’s five minutes, or an hour to hit your weekly goal. Then, build toward monthly, sixmonth, and yearly goals.”

Espinosa emphasizes the importance of regularly reassessing goals.

“Check in with yourself: ‘Am I am I doing

enough?’ If you’re not seeing results, ‘what am I not doing? Is my gym time efficient? Am I pushing myself as hard as I should be?’” he said. “Sometimes your goals may

change, and you need to evolve with them.” Espinosa talks from experience. He spent years strength training before running his first half-marathon.

“After I did one, it changed everything. I'm still working out, but my workouts changed with my goal to run more half-marathons,” he said. “Your training and your resolutions are going to evolve. The result is where you want to get to, but the journey is going to get you there.”

After being a high school athlete, Espinosa fell into unhealthy habits, including fast food and lack of exercise. Eventually he redefined his goals, embraced healthy eating, and became certified in endurance training, weight loss, muscle management and training for older adults.

“Pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone, being comfortable in the uncomfortableness of working out, makes you mentally stronger,” he said. “When I see that, it makes me happy. I want to help people.”

Other advice Espinosa offers:

• Use the gym as an escape: Espinosa said people join the gym because they need a break from the stresses of work and home. “Being in the gym helps you focus on what you're here for — yourself and your goals.”

• Be accountable: While personal trainers can provide motivation and customized workout plans, Espinosa emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility. “You need to be accountable to yourself.”

• Prioritize your fitness: “Make time for it. Don’t say, ‘When I have time, I'll do it,’” Espinosa said. “Schedule an hour twice a week to work out and build from there.”

Steve Espinosa, a nationally certified personal trainer at VASA Draper’s gym, said fitness goals should be manageable so they can be eased into routines and naturally, become habits. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Injury-plagued Larsen back on court for Hawks

By Josh McFadden | j.mcfadden@mycityjournals.com

As an athlete, few things are more frustrating than dealing with injuries. Alta’s Brooklyn Larsen has had her share of injury woes.

Larsen, a senior guard for the girls basketball team, knows what it’s like to play with pain; sit on the sideline, unable to compete; and work through the challenges of rehab and recovery.

This season, she’s finally getting a chance to play at full strength.

“I’ve been through a couple of things,” Larsen said. “Since I was 15, I have been dealing with some injuries. I have had five injuries in those past two years, and three that have required surgery.”

Her bad luck began her sophomore season when she tore the anterior cruciate ligament in her knee. As she recovered from that serious injury, she needed surgery just before the start of her junior year to remove hardware in her knee. In April 2023, Larsen dislocated her shoulder. Meniscus problems followed. After cleaning that up in August 2023, she worked hard to strengthen her knee and get back into playing shape. This past November, she dislocated her shoulder a second time.

Some athletes—perhaps many—might quit their sports altogether. But the resilient Larsen is moving forward with determination.

“I will keep on, because nothing is going to stop me from playing what I love for my senior year,” she said.

Before these setbacks, Larsen struggled with confidence. The injuries provided further hindrance. However, Larsen said she is making progress and believing in herself more and more this season.

“Even before my injuries, I hadn’t been confident in my abilities even when I knew that I was better than others or able to accomplish what was needed, but my brain wouldn’t let me,” she said. “This year, my confidence skyrocketed, and I feel a little better with going through mental exercises and different things like that.”

On the court, Larsen was third on the team with 5.8 points per game through the first five outings. Alta got off to a 1-4 start.

Larsen started playing competitively at age 8 when her parents signed her up in Jr. Jazz. Her mom was her first coach.

“I absolutely loved it,” Larsen said.

As a player, Larsen enjoys making a big play, helping a teammate and contributing to her team’s success. Her passion for basketball helps her fight through the struggles of her injuries.

“I really enjoy those moments when you do something right or you make a good play or swing the ball and someone is open,” she said. “It is a beautiful feeling when you realize that that was a beautiful play. Even if it is a bad game, and a play

like that happens, everything is great. What motivates me to keep playing is my love for the sport.”

Larsen has a high IQ for the game. She sees the court well and is a good example to the other players. She has improved her ability to shoot and maintains a positive attitude, even when things aren’t going her way or the team’s way.

“As a player, I would say that my strength is definitely knowing when to make a certain play and how to do it, so court vision and making the right play,” she said. “I would like to say that I am a strong shooter this year as well. I feel that I also bring a leadership aspect to the team as well as a calming presence to the team when I am on the court.”

In this her final season for the Hawks, Larsen is working on improving her ball-handling and taking the pressure off other guards on the team. She said she is trying to “see things before they happen” and anticipate what other players on the court are going to do in certain situations.

In addition, Larsen has some other lofty goals for herself and her team.

“A couple of goals that I have for my team this season is to renew my teammates’ passion in playing when times get hard, as well as getting to the third round in the state tournament by getting stops, steals, assists, offensive rebounds and more,” she said. “My goal for this season is to be a good teammate and make the right play. The rest will come.”

Last season, Alta lost in the second round of the Class 5A state tournament to Region 6 rival Olympus, a team it had defeated twice during the regular season. The Hawks were 19-4 a season ago after going winless in 21 games in 2022-23.

Alta has some big games on the horizon, as region play begins after the New Year holiday. The Hawks also took part in the prestigious Tarkanian Classic in Las Vegas, Nevada, Dec. 18-21.

In any capacity, Larsen is eager to be there for her team, and she’s hoping she can do so without nagging injuries in her senior year for the Hawks. Once she graduates at the end of this school year, she hopes to play at the next level and further her education.

“For my post-high school plans, I’m hoping to get a scholarship to play college somewhere around Utah and the West Coast,” she said. “I’m not quite sure what I want to study yet, but I am weighing options between psychology, forensic psychology and kinesiology.”

Larsen and the Hawks play at East on Jan. 3 to tip off the Region 6 schedule. Alta will play each league foe twice before heading into the state tournament. l

Brooklyn Larsen (with the ball in white) handles the ball and looks for an open player in action earlier this season. (Photo courtesy of Julie Larsen)

Your Mental Health Deserves Care, No Matter the Season

As the days grow shorter and the cold settles in, many of us start to feel the weight of seasonal depression. If your struggle with depression includes low energy, lack of ambition, or a sense of isolation, you’re not alone—and we can help.

to reignite dormant connections in the

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and give you control of your

WPerson on the Street interviews

e asked people in Salt Lake County what they were looking forward to in 2025. Here’s what they said.

Jane (left) and Siri Thackeray:

“I’m in eighth grade, so next year I’ll go to high school at Brighton and I’m going to try out for the soccer team there.”

Jane Thackeray, Sandy

“I’m looking forward to sports. I play lacrosse for high school and club, and since it’s winter, I have to take a break, but I’m excited to go back.”

Siri Thackeray, Sandy

Makena:

“I’m looking forward to learning more and growing as a person, physically and emotionally.”

Makena Bass, Riverton

Sha:

“I’m looking forward to all the change in diversity and gas prices and being able to live comfortably again. Hopefully, it will be a new beginning and a start to something new.”

Sha Primus, West Valley City

Tasha A: “We’re going to be building a house in 2025 and that’s what our family is looking forward to.”

Tasha Adair, Bluffdale

Drake:

“I’m looking forward to a new home and a new school. I look forward to summer and skating. There’s a new skate park in Hyrum that I want to try. And I’ll be 16 and I’ll get to drive.”

Joe:

“My goal is to have a healthy business and a fun, adventurous business. We offer flight training and pilot services and we cater to clients that are looking to buy a Cirrus Aircraft.”

Joe Hoggan, West Valley City

“I’m looking forward to my kids all going to school and being able to get a job. And I want to get organized.”

Rebecca: “I’m looking forward to fixing our remodeled house.”

Rebecca Hoggan, West Valley City

Drake Adair, Bluffdale

Olivia:

Olivia Kruse, West Jordan

Community ushers in two new fire engines into Sandy Fire Station

By Rebecca Olds | rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com

Sandy community members gathered Nov. 23 to usher in two new fire engines into the community’s Fire Station 32 during an official and symbolic “push-in” ceremony.

Sandy Fire Chief Ryan McConaghie estimated anywhere from 200 to 300 people attended the event which pays homage to the beginnings of fire departments.

“It’s a symbolic way to pay homage to our ancestors, to the firefighters and fire departments that came before us,” McConaghie said.

He explained to event participants that in the 1800s when the first fire wagons would return to the fire garage, they would detach the horses and then manually push the heavy wagon and water tank back into the covered storage until the next need.

“This happens all over the nation, but that’s kind of the background of why we do it, and it’s the fun way to start out the new life of one of our engines and or trucks,” he said.

The two engines were specifically designed with Sandy in mind. The Responder, built in Florida, has modifications to deal with wildland fires and city fires and will be housed in Station 33. On the other hand, the Enforcer, built in Wisconsin, was optimized for the growing urban part of the city and will be housed in Station 35.

Both engines were bought by the city

through Pierce Manufacturing which specializes in custom firetrucks.

In total, the engines cost $1.5 million, with the Enforcer being the majority at $900,000.

McConaghie said the specialized Responder will also be deployable to help nearby areas in Utah and neighboring states.

Congratulations to our December Members of the Month, Tymur Bezruchenko, Gabriel B. Saldanha, & Ruth Burner! Tymur is 10 years old: Tymur wants to become a running back on an American football team when he grows up, Tymur has been attending the Sandy Club for 1 and a half years, in that time he has learned how to be kind, help others, & teach others. Gabriel is 8 years old: he wants to become a jet fighter, he has been attending for 1 year, in that time he has learned respect. Ruth is 7 years old: she wants to become a babysitter, she has been attending for 6 months, and in that time, she has learned how to be kind. Congratulations once again, we are so proud of you all!

With its enhanced capacity to hold water, nearly 250 gallons more water than other engines, and its off-roading capabilities, it’s an ideal candidate for rural fires.

Sandy’s new Enforcer is tricked out with a whole lot more storage space that will hold hazmat supplies and equipment, so first

responders are well prepared for almost anything.

“It’s very palpable when you can actually show up and touch an engine, push it into the bay, ask questions, open the doors—you’re an immediate stakeholder, you’re an immediate fan,” McConaghie said. l

Sandy and neighboring cities’ residents alike attended Sandy City’s fire engine push-in event which welcomed two new customized fire engines into the city. (Courtesy of Sandy City)

The biggest turnout in recent years, Sandy’s fire engine push-in ceremony was well attended by the community with 200 to 300 people at the event on Nov. 23. (Courtesy of Sandy City)

“The kids love the engines, of course, but I get the feeling that the parents do as well just seeing everybody out there,” said Sandy Fire Chief Ryan McConaghie. (Courtesy of Sandy City)

Remember in the Looney Tunes cartoons when Wile E. Coyote runs off the edge of a cliff and hangs suspended in midair before he realizes there’s no ground beneath his feet? That’s how I feel going into 2025.

The holidays offered a jolly buffer between the U.S. presidential election and the official transfer of power this month, but now I’m looking down at the canyon floor, holding up a sign that reads “Help!” and preparing myself for the plunge where I hit rock bottom. Then, as I’m lying in a coyote-shaped hole, an anvil will land on my head.

Historically, January in Utah is not for the faint-hearted with its frigid temperatures, smoggy inversions and lack of holidays that involve celebrating with pie. Nothing screams January like buying a pound of peppermint chocolate bark on clearance and scarfing it down while binge-watching “Bridgerton” in sweatpants.

But for those of us still reeling from the election, every batty presidential cabinet pick, each mention of mass deportations and every promise to roll back environmental regulations is another anvil to the head.

I’m not a person who gets amped

Peri Kinder Life and Laughter

“BEEP BEEP!”

about “A new year!” and “A better me!” but my goal this month is to change my mindset. I need to put down the leftover Christmas candy, change out of my sweatpants and do what I can to bring about positive change.

Maybe I’ll make a vision board or start repeating daily affirmations. Perhaps I’ll exercise more, although the gym will be as crowded as Times Square for the next six weeks. I will definitely not observe Dry January.

I could learn how to use the tech I got for Christmas or take up a new language. Like Russian. I could try to enjoy winter activities and make an effort not to groan when someone suggests a winter hike or a sledding trip at the local park.

One way to change my mindset is to volunteer with organizations that support causes dear to my heart. Getting out of my head and into the idea we can all make a

difference could make this dreary month (or year) bearable.

I should also take a social media break because the algorithm on my feeds stokes the flames of my angst and frustration. Haha! Just kidding. I’m not giving up TikTok until the government rips the phone from my grasping fingers. That platform brings me instances of joy with its mischievous pets, hilarious cooking vids and comic relief.

Maybe taking up a new hobby could put me in an optimistic state of mind, but not crocheting because that’s ridiculously hard. Perhaps I could start ballroom dancing or interpretive cake decorating. It’s conceivable I have a hidden talent for base jumping or parkour. I guess we’ll never know.

Some readers have suggested I take a writing class. I guess I could look into that.

Chasing that elusive Road Runner, Wile E. Coyote faced catastrophes every day. His ACME explosives blew up in his face, he was smashed by boulders over and over, he fell off cliffs and spent thousands of dollars for Road Runner traps that inevitably went wrong. His rocket-powered unicycle experiment didn’t end well.

But every day, he showed up to try

again, creating ingenious ways to catch the Road Runner. He never stopped believing one day he would succeed, that one day he wouldn’t be crushed. That’s where I am. I’m peeling myself off the boulder and starting over, never giving up hope that one person can change this world for the better.