Ray deWolfe takes his seat on the South Salt Lake City Council
in need.
By Tom Haraldsen
t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com
It feels like a bit of a homecoming for Ray deWolfe, who has returned as a member of the South Salt Lake City Council. He was appointed in January to fill the remainder of the term of Natalie Pinkney, who was elected a member of the Salt Lake County Council in last November's election.
deWolfe is serving as an at-large member of the council, as he did during his previous term. He was elected to the council in 2017 and served for four years, but did not seek re-election. When Pinkney won her county seat, he submitted his name along with 16 other hopefuls to fill the rest of her term in office, which ends later this year. They were each interviewed at a council meeting, and deWolfe was selected.
“I served on the planning commission for about a year in South Salt Lake, and started pretty close to around the time when my wife and I bought a house in the city,” he said. “We were looking for ways to get more involved in the community. We were excited about getting to know our city and our neighbors and so that was sort of my first introduction in city government.”
He works in the Human Resources Department for Mountain America Credit Union, where he’s been on staff for 10 years. He is also a coach for the Hillcrest High School Little League football team, which helps prep young players for future competitions.
deWolfe said he’s seen a lot of growth in South Salt Lake in recent years, along with the challenges the city is ready to take on.
“One of the questions we were asked during our application process was, you know, what are your priorities for being on the city council?” he said. “I think my answer is that I originally ran on my same priorities of home ownership and affordability within our city, focusing on neighborhoods and community. I think when it comes to growth in general, we have to look at how we grow smart and be the city which we envision as being with transportation options, recreation-
al opportunities and housing affordability.”
He was originally opposed to the plan to locate a family shelter in South Salt Lake because he saw the city as being “a landing spot for lots of county facilities. We have a lot of tax-exempt properties because really, when the county is looking for some place to put something, it falls upon our city in a lot of ways. That was sort of a frustration of mine when that location was chosen.”
Since then, he said the city has done a great job helping the shelter population mesh into the community, and he’s always been supportive of the programs that assist those
“You know, we have dedicated homeless resource officers that do nothing but kind of manage that facility and the population around it. They know who these people are, and we've advocated for funds to be allocated to our city to help manage it. And I think by and large, we are pretty successful now.”
He also views the maintaining and improving of the city’s infrastructure as a priority, saying “when you talk about streets and water lines and all that, it’s not very sexy to talk about, but it sure gets noticed if things don't work properly. You have to budget and allocate resources appropriately to do that stuff. And so those are the things I'm going to be paying close attention to.”
deWolfe also knows perceptions of South Salt Lake are often negative and inaccurate.
“I believe the city’s done a really good job of marketing itself,” he said. “This is a working town. It’s really blue collar, and that represents the spirit of community in a lot of ways, because we are pretty much a Welcoming City. We welcome a lot of refugees, we have very diverse backgrounds, and we happen to be located inside a larger metro where we triple in size during the day and shrink back down during the night for our actual residents. That fluctuation comes with challenges, but also opportunities. The events we sponsor are part of an effort to educate others about who we are, what we are and what we want in the future. I think image takes time to not only build, but to maintain, and that's where the work will go in trying to maintain the positive image that we're building.”l
Ladies Take the Lead with Experience, Passion and Purpose at CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospitals
“Ido this work for my father, for families like ours, and ultimately, for the glory of God,” said Martha Boutsikakis Gamble, Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) at Holy Cross Hospital - West Valley and registered nurse for over 20 years.
For many, a career in healthcare is more of a calling - a decision made that was shaped by past experiences with loved ones, or even personal health scares of their own. This type of desire to care for others and passion to pursue a career in healthcare rings especially true for the ladies who are taking the lead at our CommonSpirit Health Holy Cross Hospitals in West Jordan and West Valley City.
Martha was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, to immigrant parents from Crete, Greece. While her parents spoke conversational English, her role as the eldest child often involved translating for them in settings where language wasn’t necessarily the barrier but rather, cultural understanding wasthis included translating at her dad’s appointments with his dietitian.
“When I was only about 11 or 12 years old, my father was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes,” said Martha. “It quickly became clear during his appointments that the meal recommendations we were receiving didn’t align with the food we grew up eating, nor did they consider the cultural context of our meals.”
In an attempt to adapt to the dietitian’s recommendations, the meals Martha and her family ate were repetitive… for nearly a decade.
“These early experiences fostered in me a calling—not only to serve but to advocate for
communities like mine, where language and culture can create unseen barriers to quality healthcare,” said Martha.
For Christine McSweeney, President of Holy Cross Hospitals - Jordan Valley and West Valley, her path to healthcare leadership began as a passion to explore the science behind nutrition and how to properly fuel our bodies.
“I’m a science nerd at heart,” said Christine. “I get excited about seeing people and myself thrive and improve through proper nutrition and care”
Christine’s career began at Banner Health in Arizona where she was a clinical dietitian. Over the course of 20 years, Christine climbed the ranks to eventually serve as Chief Operating Officer of a large academic center in downtown Phoenix before she joined the CommonSpirit Health leadership team five years ago, stepping into her current President role in 2023.
“My experience here in Utah has been like no other. It is full of neighbors helping neighbors, strong family values, amazing outdoor beauty and a true haven for healthy lifestyles. This way of living and thinking really brings me back to my roots as a dietitian” said Christine. “In addition, it certainly doesn’t hurt that the people we have working for CommonSpirit in the Greater Salt Lake market are loyal, dedicated and lean into our mission with their values first!”
Katie Flores, CNO at Holy Cross HospitalMountain Point and Interim CNO at Holy Cross Hospital - Jordan Valley, kicked off her healthcare
career in 2001 as a registered nurse - initially caring for patients at the bedside in Med/Surg and in the Emergency Department.
Over the years, Katie transitioned into leadership roles and has been serving as CNO for the last 10 years. A passionate caregiver, Katie’s background actually started with a dream to work in broadcast media… but that quickly changed.
“I realized early on that broadcast wasn’t the right fit for me - I felt a lack of connection and fulfillment so I pursued a career that would allow me to make a meaningful impact on others,” said Katie. “After going through some personal life experiences that led me to seek healthcare myself, I decided to make a change. I went back to school to pursue a career in healthcare—one that I could feel passionate about every day and truly connect with on a deeper level.”
Though different backgrounds and experiences fuel this leadership team’s passion to do what they do every day, Christine shared that the common thread between them all is, “This team of women lead with strength, confidence, curiosity, determination and heart…. it is present in everything we do and apparent in the quality of care our hospitals provide. I cannot wait to see all we continue to accomplish, together.”
At CommonSpirit Health, we make the healing presence of God known in our world by improving the health of the people we serve, especially those who are vulnerable, while we advance social justice for all.
Learn more about the services, care providers and missiondriven work of the Holy Cross hospitals and CommonSpirit Health at www.holycrossutah.org.
Around the world in one take: New cutting-edge filmmaking technology comes to SLCC
The virtual production stage replaces old green screen technology.
By Jesse M. Gonzalez j.gonzalez@mycityjournals.com
To get the most accurate depiction of a scene, many filmmakers travel miles away to film on location. However, with new technology, creators can create settings from anywhere in the world without moving. With the cutting-edge virtual production stage, Salt Lake City Community College filmmakers, aspiring and professional, can do that, changing the shape of film making.
A 31-foot-wide by 18-foot-high wall composed of LED panels, the Taylor Virtual Production Stage offers an immersive experience for filmmakers and viewers without the use of a green screen.
“The project started two years ago and we proposed that we embrace this new technology that is essentially replacing green screen technology,” said SLCC documentary professor Tyler Smith. “That process is very cumbersome because you have to—there's nothing to really interact with. The actor has to really imagine what's happening.
“So this new technology is a massive screen that replaces that green screen and you put the image on while you're doing the production and so now the actors have a real environment to interact with and then they also have a layer of luminance that's reflecting on them and so the actual environment like with the color and intensity reflects back onto the actor and so it feels real and it looks real,” Smith said.
The virtual production stage is now the newest of three stages at Salt Lake Community College’s School of Arts, Communication & Media (SACM).
“We've had our main sound stage; we
now have three sound stages as a community college. One is a television broadcast television stage, the other one is an actual film stage where we shoot movies and build sets, and then the other, the third one that we just gained access to,” said Channing Lowe, an associate professor of film production who has been teaching at SLCC for nearly two decades.
“The school had some excess funding that they were trying to find a project, I guess a worthy project, to put money into. We've been seeing virtual production happening for some time….We didn't know how to do it necessarily, but we knew that it was kind of a—it was basically a growing industry where there weren’t enough professionals to kind of fill the need for that, because a lot of movies are now during virtual production,” Lowe said.
With popular movies and television shows like “Black Panther” and “The Mandalorian” using virtual production stages, it inspires SLCC film students to adapt to a growing technology that can offer photorealistic environments where filmmakers can shoot their scenes and build set extensions in front of it, making it look like those in front of the camera are in a totally different physical or geographical location.
“The Unreal Engine is what we used. It's a video game engine that's gotten to the point where they can make it look fairly photorealistic by creating these 3D environments that project on the wall, and then you'll put the camera in front of the wall and the software will know where the camera is,” Lowe said. “It was just over $1 million to basically renovate the stage and purchase the materials for the LED wall.”
“It took about two years to plan,” said Smith, who, along with some of his students, has been using the wall for his documentary class, shooting interviews using several different background environments.
Since the fall semester, classes for the Taylor Virtual Production Stage have been filling up immediately with students eager to work on their projects using the wall.
“There's one short film that they built an actual space module thing where people are sitting inside and they shot drone footage to go on the LED wall. From the perspective of the camera inside the space module, it looks like they're actually flying. It looked really, really nice,” Lowe said.
Getting acquainted with the new stateof-the-art technology did not come without some external aid, as virtual production stage experts such as Jake Dickey from Redman Movies & Stories have come in to assist SLCC faculty and students.
“[Jake Dickey’s] been great in helping us, advising us on how to get the wall set up and also teaching those specific classes,”
Lowe said. “Right now, there is a need and demand for people who know that technology, and right now, there's not very many people that know that technology very well.”
With the Taylor Virtual Production Stage, there are many new plans and goals for Salt Lake City Community College, setting a new and exciting chapter for the film and media department.
“Our goal with the school is to get students trained to where they can get jobs on virtual productions, so they can be technicians in that field. The other goal is to get more classes, and we're working with Jake Dickey to basically develop more classes for teaching virtual production,” Lowe said. “I'm still learning a lot on it. I feel like I've just kind of scratched the surface.”l
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Professionals and aspiring filmmaking students get instructed on how to operate the virtual production stage. (Photo courtesy of Salt Lake City Community College)
SROs build safety and trust in South Salt Lake schools
SROs are mentors and trusted figures in the South Salt Lake community.
By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com
SouthSalt Lake’s Student Resource
Officers are crucial to the community, bridging the gap between law enforcement and education. SROs Amanda Johnson and David Wirthlin serve as mentors, protectors, allies and trusted figures that students can come to for help or guidance.
Johnson has served with the SSL Police Department for seven years. She is responsible for teaching the city’s fifth-grade students the NOVA program, helping them develop nurturing habits, recognize good opportunities in life, expand values and create accountability.
“I chose to work with children and at the schools because I feel it is the most rewarding,” Johnson said. “I have also spent a large part of my career and personal life working with kids.”
Along with teaching elementary students, Johnson also serves as the SRO at Granite Park Jr. High School where she is responsible for student and staff safety. She is involved with community outreach events
like Night Out Against Crime, summer camps for NOVA graduates, sporting events and after-school activities.
As schools navigate complex social and safety challenges, the role of SROs remains an important topic for educators, parents and policymakers. Students play a big role in reporting safety concerns and are ultimately the ones who know what’s happening in their school and can help prevent a situation from escalating.
“I encourage [students] to come forward by building good relationships with the kids so they feel safe coming to me and talking to me,” Johnson said. “I also make it easy to talk to me and to be anonymous to fellow students. I am there and engage with and talk to kids in the hallways and at lunch. I go to their games, I pull them in and just talk to them randomly about how they are, and what is going on with them. I talk to them about things they are interested in.
“I notice if they are not acting like themselves and will acknowledge their feelings. I let them know I, above all else, have their safety in mind. The kids I work with are people, who are very smart, and all of them are capable of great things and should be treated as such…I do not use my authority unless needed and the kids know that and respect me for this.”
Johnson prioritizes mentorship and
community engagement over her role as law enforcement when working with students. She said the students know she will enforce laws when needed, and that she’ll be fair, but Johnson ultimately wants to work with them and their families to ensure the best outcome for them to help them lead a successful life.
As a certified SRO, Johnson is trained through NOVA to work with students and takes continual training opportunities throughout the year geared toward goals like effective communication, making good life choices and accepting accountability.
Croyle said SROs play a critical role in maintaining a safe and secure learning environment for students and staff.
“Their presence not only helps deter crime and respond to emergencies, but they serve as mentors and positive role models, fostering strong relationships with students,” Croyle said. “SROs contribute to the overall well-being of the school community and are invaluable members of the educational landscape.” l
SSL rescue animals get pampered, primped and polished
Shelter Support Program prepares pets for adoption.
By Peri Kinder
peri.k@thecityjournals.com
Dogskenneled at South Salt Lake Animal Services (2274 S. 600 West) were treated to a day of fun interaction and professional grooming in January. The Shelter Support Program, organized by Evening Arts, brought pet business partners to the no-kill shelter to prepare the pups for adoption.
The nine rescue dogs at the SSL shelter received pet massage, playtime with volunteers, professional photography and grooming services. Lizzy Sawyer, owner of Evening Arts, coordinated the event to support rescue animals and the shelters that care for them.
“It’s all about a full day of enrichment for the animals,” Sawyer said. “It’s about allowing the staff members at the shelter a reprieve and it’s all about giving them the best tools to market and network those animals. It’s about getting the dogs out, allowing us to see how they interact in different environments and allowing us to see what types of individuals they do well with. We give all of that feedback to the shelter.”
Several businesses showed up to support the event. The Grateful Shed mobile grooming service provided baths, trims and brushing. Bark and Snap pet photography created photos of the pups to post online. Muralist Artistically, Sam was on hand to paint a mural on the shelter window.
Everyday Doggo provided durable, handmade dog gear while Poop Scoop Utah cleaned out the kennels and play areas. Bark N' Go brought its mobile gym to give the
rescues some exercise with its doggie treadmill and Jessie Schwendinger offered pet massage and therapy.
“Usually, for a first appointment, it’s not a lot of deep tissue massage or working on physical therapy. It’s more just to get them used to the body-handling aspect of it,” she said. “There’s a whole cooperative care element, getting them used to body-handling, like in a vet situation or at the groomers. It’s getting them used to having their body handled and it helps them have a little more confidence in those environments.
“[The benefit] is the bond with humans, especially with shelter dogs when we don’t know their history, like what scars they have from people, mentally or physically. This is just reestablishing trust.”
Sawyer said rescue dogs spend a lot of time in kennels so the event gets the dogs out of their cages and provides necessary development skills. The enrichment station allowed the pups to do activities that naturally help them learn including licking, sniffing, scratching and digging.
Volunteers encouraged the pups to play with cardboard boxes filled with shredded paper and snacks, and towels wrapped around treats offered a fun scent activity for the dogs.
“They’ve got to work and use their brains to puzzle it out to get the treat,” Sawyer said. “And then we will also be doing lick bowls, just to get them that stimulation with the sniff and lick together.”
SSL Animal Services works with Best Friends Animal Society and recently took in a few of its animals after Best Friends was inundated with dogs following the California wildfires. The shelter promotes responsible pet ownership and provides microchipping and licensing. Donations to the
shelter can be made at slc.gov/369/Animal-Services.
“There’s just so many rescues and not enough people coming out to adopt,” Sawyer said. “It’s hard. It’s really hard.”
The Shelter Support Program is also raising money online to purchase foot and other pet supplies for South Salt Lake Animal Services. l
SSL Police Chief Danielle
Student Resource Officer Amanda Johnson prioritizes mentorship and community engagement at South Salt Lake schools. Johnson and SRO David Wirthlin serve the SSL community.
(Photo courtesy SSLPD)
Whiskey gets a bath and paw massage during the Shelter Support Program’s day of pampering at South Salt Lake Animal Services. (Peri Kinder/City Journals)
Ross Romero takes oath of office for Salt Lake County Council
Former Democratic legislator Ross Romero takes seat for Salt Lake County Council District 4.
By Shaun Delliskave s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com
InJanuary, Ross Romero was sworn in as the Salt Lake County Councilmember for District 4, marking a significant milestone as one of the first Latino (Carlos Moreno was also sworn in) to hold the position. District 4 spans much of the county’s east side, encompassing parts of Salt Lake City, South Salt Lake and Murray, as well as all of Holladay, Millcreek and Emigration Canyon.
Romero's journey into public service began with his education at the University of Utah, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science in 1993. He later attended the University of Michigan Law School, graduating in 1996 with a specialization in environmental and municipal law.
Following law school, Romero worked as a litigator at Jones Waldo, handling cases related to land use and municipal law. He then transitioned to Zions Bank as Vice President of Public Finance, where he played a key role in structuring bonds for infrastructure projects, including water conservation initiatives and public transit expansions. In 2020, he founded Inclusion Strategies, a consulting firm advising organizations such as Intermountain Healthcare and the Salt Lake Chamber on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) frameworks and policy compliance.
Romero told a 2024 DEI roundtable discussion hosted by Utah Business, “Progress requires listening to marginalized voices and finding common ground.”
Romero’s political career began in the Utah Legislature, where he served from 2005 to 2012. As a member of the House of Representatives (2005-06), he authored bills to increase funding for ESL programs and expand
A new program designed to forge stronger bonds between officers and the residents they serve.
By Bailey Chism
The South Salt Lake Police Department is furthering its commitment to community policing with the unveiling of a new initiative, Community Connect. This program is meant to help build stronger relationships between officers and the residents they serve by building trust and collaboration.
Community policing remains a cornerstone of the philosophy at the SSLPD, which indicates partnerships between law enforcement and the community.
"When all segments of society coop-
Medicaid coverage for low-income families. He later served in the Utah State Senate (200612), where he sponsored the 2008 Clean Air Act amendments, tightening emissions standards for industrial polluters. He retired as Senate Democratic Leader.
During President Barack Obama’s second administration, Romero was appointed to the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars, where he evaluated educational excellence criteria and promoted STEM opportunities for minority students. He also served as a Democratic National Committee representative from 2020 until early 2024.
“Ross Romero is the embodiment of dedication and leadership,” Sindy M. Benavides, president and CEO of Latino Victory Fund said. “His deep understanding of local government and his commitment to environmental sustainability, affordable housing, and economic equity makes him an ideal candidate to serve Salt Lake County. We proudly endorse his campaign and believe he will be an out-
standing advocate for his community.”
In 2011, Romero was a candidate for Salt Lake County Mayor.
Beyond elected office, Romero has been deeply involved in community service. He has served on the YWCA Community Advisory Council, advising on policies to support domestic violence survivors and expand childcare access. As a board member of Hale Centre Theatre, he championed initiatives to make arts education accessible to underserved youth. His leadership extends to national organizations, including the National Association of Latino Elected & Appointed Officials (NALEO), the Utah Hospital Association, and the Institute for Diversity and Health Equity.
After the Utah legislature passed HB261 dismantling some DEI programs, Romero posted on Instagram, “As your councilmember
SSLPD launches ‘Community Connect’
erate to prevent and combat crime, the result is improved safety and quality of life for all,” said Chief of Police Danielle Croyle echoing parts of the police department’s mission . which is "enhancing the quality of life in our community by providing professional police services through trust, dignity and fidelity."
Croyle said the SSLPD's Community Policing Plan focuses on two key goals: improving police-community relations and reducing crime and disorder through collaborative problem-solving. The SSLPD has already estab-
Community Connect events will be held at varying locations throughout the city. (Photo courtesy of Danielle Croyle)
lished several programs to facilitate positive interactions. These include the South Salt Lake Police Athletic League's partnership with the Promise SSL after-school program, including "Bowl with a Cop," and monthly Neighborhood Watch Zoom meetings.
Community Connect will expand that work by providing new opportunities for police, the community and businesses to engage one another. The main purpose of the program is straightforward: to engage the community.
in Salt Lake County’s District 4, I will always advocate for practices that prioritize diversity, equity and inclusion to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to have a seat at every table.”
Romero outlined his views on development on the campaign website, “I promise to advocate for development that is both progressive and mindful of its impact on our community. This approach emphasizes responsible land use, environmental stewardship and collaboration with stakeholders to create developments that enhance our quality of life while preserving the unique character of our county.”
Residing in Holladay with his family, Romero volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah and mentors first-generation college students at the University of Utah. l
"The events will vary," Croyle said. "We will be in different locations in the city, some are meet and greets, and some may include food."
This would ensure more accessibility and diversification in participation.
Community Connect is meant to bridge the gap in understanding and respect between police and community. Residents would get an opportunity to share their concerns, express their point of view, and work with the officers to resolve problems affecting neighborhoods. For the police department, it would be an enriching experience about the needs within the community and a chance to further develop their ability to serve effectively.
"It is part of our community policing to engage the community," Croyle said. l
Ross Romero (far left) was sworn in as councilmember for Salt Lake County District 4. (Photo courtesy of Salt Lake County)
Salt Lake County District 4 Councilmember Ross Romero.
Access to health care shouldn't depend on your zip code or your wallet. The Wellness Bus is changing the game, bringing free, confidential healthcare directly to communities.
By Bailey Chism
Justimagine a physician's office on wheels rolling into your neighborhood with free health screenings, expert advice and comfortable facilities—all without requiring insurance or identification. That is the goal of the Wellness Bus, a mobile prevention program dedicated to reducing chronic disease and enhancing community health.
Access to care is often a function of zip code, insurance status or an inability to pay for a visit. The Wellness Bus aims to tear down barriers through free and confidential services available to everyone, regardless of background or income.
The Wellness Bus received South Salt Lake’s "Promise Partner of the Year Award" last year at the 2024 State of the City Address and Awards Presentation.
Edward Lopez, deputy director of Promise SSL, said the Wellness Bus started in 2018 and is at the Central Park Community Center every first, third and fifth Thursday of the month.
“[The Wellness Bus] has been an active and integrated part of our community since the very beginning,” he said. “[They] ensure our community has access to the health resources they need and can also make referrals to social services.”
Wellness Bus-provided essential health screenings and support include:
• Blood glucose (sugar)
• Blood pressure
• Cholesterol
• Body Mass Index-BMI
• Nutrition counseling/education
• Lifestyle coaching
• Referrals to health and social service providers
These services help in the early detection of potential health problems so that the concerned individual is equipped with resources and materials for maintenance and management.
Although most of its clients are those above 18, if your child shows
a risk factor for diabetes, they may qualify for services from the Wellness Bus. It sees to it that the whole family will have proper access to health care as well as valuable information toward achieving healthier lifestyle choices.
Everything on the Wellness Bus is free and confidential. No paperwork, no verification of insur-
ance—just quality care when and where you need it.
The Wellness Bus travels to many locations to reach those who need it most. Check their website healthcare.utah.edu/integrative-health/driving-out-diabetes/ mobile-health-program or follow them on social media to find out when it will be near you. l
The Wellness Bus stops in South Salt Lake every first, third and fifth Thursday of the month. (Photo courtesy of Edward Lopez)
By Brian Shaw b.shaw@mycityjournals.com
The Hillcrest Huskies are on the rise. But the Cottonwood Colts did just enough to weather a second half Huskies rally and hold on for a 49-44 win on Hillcrest’s home court.
Cottonwood [16-8, 11-1 Region 10] had a 30-15 halftime lead over their crosstown rival thanks in large part to contributions from senior Luke Park and sophomore Luka Cecez. But, the Huskies rode the momentum of a raucous home crowd inside their main gym that was filled on all four sides to cut that lead to nine going into the fourth quarter at 40-31.
Hillcrest outscored the Colts 13-9 in the fourth behind 19 points from senior Myles Mahler. Cottonwood would also get help from several guys, as Park and Cecez each scored 14 points by the time the horn sounded.
On a night when the Colts’ leading scorer John Rosevear was held 10 points under his season average of 19 per game at nine, the balance from Cottonwood’s first unit was evident. Bo Smith added
seven points, Isaac Smith dropped a threepoint shot that was critical and Tengis Bayasgalan scored two points for a Colts group that is coming together down the stretch.
The win over Hillcrest in the season finale – the Colts also scrimmaged Wasatch Academy in a state tournament tune-up – marked the second Region 10 win in a row for Cottonwood after it fell in a 58-51 slugfest at Murray Jan. 28, in which Rosevear was held to just seven points.
That will likely be the recipe that teams try to use at the state tournament to slow down a Cottonwood team that has suffered one Region 10 loss enroute to their third outright league title in a row, in 36 games as a Region 10 member.
Before that loss at Murray, the Colts stormed to five wins in a row in Region 10 play after having been tested at the Utah Autism Holiday Classic against some of Utah’s best schools in non-league action.
Rosevear is averaging 18.3 points heading into the 4A state tournament, and he scored team-highs in three of the Colts’ five wins during that streak. Others have stepped up when Rosevear has struggled. Cecez poured in a career and season-high 28 points Jan. 24 in a 68-54 win against Jordan. The 6-foot-8 swingman also had eight rebounds and five blocks in that
game for a Cottonwood team that also got 10 assists and nine rebounds from Park, who was the team’s leading scorer in both wins over Hillcrest—including the 68-49 victory on Jan. 9 that ignited the Colts’ win streak.
By the time you read this, the Colts
will have finished their quest for another state tournament run in mid-February that continues through this month, after press deadline. Cottonwood was given a No. 5 seed and a first-round bye when the bracket was announced Feb. 8. l
John Rosevear led the Colts in scoring this season with 18 points per game. (City Journals)
For Cottonwood football head coach Tui Satuala, several team goals were reached in year one
In year two of rebuilding the football program, coach Tui Satuala and staff will begin eighth-grade workouts to better assimilate incoming student-athletes for the 2025-26 season.
By Brian Shaw b.shaw@mycityjournals.com
WhenTui Satuala was named as Cottonwood High School’s next head football coach last summer, he didn’t know at the time that he would be learning a new skill.
“I started teaching in August,” he said. “I am teaching AVID, which is a college and career readiness class.”
As Cottonwood’s new AVID teacher, which was a new subject as far as Satuala was concerned, it wouldn’t just be the first time he would be teaching AVID—he’d be a head football coach of a Utah high school for the first time, too.
“Cottonwood is unique in that the AVID program is partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah. They are in the class once a week to share a lesson with the students,” Satuala said. “Students also have the opportunity to pair with a mentor from the community. They will write their mentor once a week and then they hold a monthly mentor meeting in the evening where students and mentors meet at the school for food and activities.”
It wasn’t all that long ago when former head coach Casey Miller was teaching most of the kids on Cottonwood’s football team how to wear a suit properly and tie a tie.
Although Satuala may be short on head coaching experience, he came to Cottonwood with plenty of knowledge as both an assistant coach and as a history teacher. Before his stop at The Wood, coach Satuala taught at Cyprus, Hillcrest and Kearns and said he also worked as a position coach at each of those stops, learning the ropes as he went along.
“I started my coaching career at Bountiful High school during my student teaching in 2018. I was a sophomore head coach and sophomore offensive coordinator,” said Satuala, who played and studied at Weber State University. “At Cyprus I was a tight ends coach and special teams coordinator. At Hillcrest I helped with O-line, tight ends and receivers, and at Kearns I was the tight ends coach and special teams coordinator.”
Cottonwood’s new head coach said there are three specific sets of goals that he would like his team to reach.
“[Our] goals can be broken into three categories. My main goal as a head coach is to create a sustainable and competitive football program,” said Satuala, who taught World History and Geography for six years prior to his teaching assignment at Cottonwood. “One of our first priorities was building up the little league.”
That first priority raised a few eyebrows in the Murray-Cottonwood High School commu-
nity, one that Satuala said could’ve been handled differently.
“I also acknowledge that I could have done a better job communicating our plans to the Ute Conference. I told them at the beginning of our season; I take full responsibility for that,” he said. “We still support Murray-Cottonwood in the Ute Conference and players from Cottonwood boundaries that are participating in it.”
In addition, the Colts had success in the little league they entered outside of Ute Conference, in Utah County, fielding a fourth-grade team that reached the second round of the playoffs.
One area that the Colts didn’t meet was in the win-loss category.
“We had some ambitious goals this season. We wanted to get a few wins and make the playoffs, record-wise,” said Satuala of his Colts team that finished 0-10 in the 2024-25 season.
“Unfortunately it didn’t go as planned.”
But, Cottonwood’s football program is already getting a head start on next season. On March 4, the Colts coaching staff will welcome interested eighth graders who plan on attending Cottonwood High School in their freshman year. They will learn how to lift in the weight room, meet their coaches and teammates for the first time at Winter Workouts that the Colts started that day and be given more instructions on how to best prepare for the 2025-26 season.
The only thing the Colts can do about last season is look ahead, continue to find college
opportunities for their seniors and align the Cottonwood football program with the mission statement for the incoming players who want to make a difference on and off the field.
“We intend to create a culture of love, character, integrity and preparation to help players become future husbands, fathers and leaders who will change the world for good,” Satuala said. “We hope you’ll join us!” l
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Cottonwood Colts head football coach Tui Satuala with BYU assistant coach Fesi Sitake. (Photo Tui Satuala)
Cottonwood girls hoops stumbles on its hooves, regroups to win another Region 10 crown
Cottonwood girls’ sports teams excel on the court and on the mat.
By Brian Shaw b.shaw@mycityjournals.com
Following a devastating loss Jan. 7 at Tooele, one that dashed hopes of an unbeaten run in Region 10 play, the Cottonwood Colts girls basketball team reeled off three straight wins by 22, 17 and 37 points.
It made you wonder whether the Colts would lose another game.
But, a two-point third quarter at home against Jordan Jan. 23 forced Cottonwood to have to claw back from a three-point deficit in the fourth. The Colts were unable to do that, and suffered their second loss of the year in Region 10 play by the final score of 41-38.
Just like the first Tooele game though, the Colts used this loss as fuel, destroying Murray by 31 on the road Jan. 28 before avenging that loss to Tooele at home by the count of 54-50, two nights later.
“We had a tough loss [to Jordan] but showed great resilience by bouncing back with a strong team win against Tooele on Senior Night,” said head coach Teresa Soracco. “Our seniors have really stepped up as leaders, setting the tone for the rest of the team. It’s been amazing to see the girls buy into the mentality of playing for each other and winning for each other.”
A week after that, Cottonwood
[17-4, 10-2 Region 10] clinched another Region 10 title with a 63-27 blowout of rival Hillcrest on Feb. 4.
All season long, the Colts have been led by a number of key players including senior Taylor Workman, who as Cottonwood’s leading scorer, averaged 13 points per game. The Brighton High transfer has already shattered the modern-day single season school record for assists, with 152, and is averaging 7.6 per game, along with 6.8 rebounds, for Cottonwood.
Also, senior Avea Van der Beek and junior Carley Caton are each averaging 12 points per game, and senior Ashlyn Tripp is averaging eight points and seven rebounds per outing for Cottonwood.
Senior Bella Morris is also well within range of a modern-day school record for steals, set last year by Ciel Budge who has graduated. Morris, who averaged 2.52 steals per game, is just 16 away from Budge’s record.
Senior Lulu Vernon is averaging three points, freshman Lexie Tripp is averaging two, and junior Sophie Yates and freshman Belle Kellywood are each netting a point per game for a balanced group of Colts.
“Winning the region title for the third year in a row is a huge accomplishment, and I couldn’t be prouder of this group. Their dedication, belief in themselves, and willingness to put in the work every day have
been incredible to watch,” Soracco said. “We’re heading into the state tournament [with a 17-4 record], and we’re looking forward to the challenge ahead. The girls are locked in, motivated, and ready to compete at the highest level.”
The Colts received a No. 5 seed for the 4A state tournament, and will have a first-round bye. The Colts will play the winner of the No. 12 and No. 21 seeds, in the second round of the tourney, after press deadline.
The 4A state tournament begins during the second week of February and continues until the end of the month.
“This team has shown so much heart all season,” Soracco said.
Cottonwood girls wrestling sets itself up for a potentially historic state tourney run
Last year, Christina Paluzzi turned a lot of heads with several big individual performances as a junior. As a senior, Paluzzi is not only posting top five finishes—she wrapped up the 4A Divisionals in fourth place in her weight class at 130 pounds, best among all the Colts. That’s an improvement from the sixth place Paluzzi earned last year at Divisionals, and so she’ll be looking to improve on a first-place exit at state.
Another junior wrestler, Klasina Duckworth, competed at state last year a few weight classes lighter than Paluzzi at 115 pounds, but Duckworth advanced all the way to the 4A quarterfinals. The Cottonwood junior also wrapped up this
year’s Divisionals a spot behind Paluzzi’s in fifth place and will look to improve on her top-eight state tournament finish.
Another name at state to keep your eye on is Isabelle Kasteler, who finished seventh at the 4A Divisionals at 155 pounds, qualifying her for the state tourney.
It marked the third straight year that the Colts qualified three girls wrestlers for state.
The 4A state tournament will take place after City Journals goes to print, on Feb. 14-15. We’ll have a complete recap and breakdown of it in next month’s issue. l
Trusted Steed: After years of prodding, Cottonwood got their man as new head baseball coach
Travis Steed, a longtime teacher at the school, had been approached by former Colts coach Jason Crawford for years according to Athletic Director Gregg Southwick.
By Brian Shaw
b.shaw@mycityjournals.com
For years, Jason Crawford had been trying to get Travis Steed to join his staff at Cottonwood High School. The former Colts baseball coach had no such luck.
Finally, after many years and several coaching changes, Steed agreed to take the reins of a Cottonwood baseball program that, since Crawford left in 2020 to join Salt Lake Community College’s baseball team as an assistant, has encountered a few setbacks. It was uncommon for a program that under Crawford was used to winning 75% of its games. And, since Steed’s children are all grown up now – the reason he declined
Crawford’s offer in the first place – the timing was such that Steed agreed to become Cottonwood’s head baseball coach in January.
“Thanks!” said the new coach Steed in response to City Journals congratulating him on the new position. Right in time for winter training, Cottonwood Athletic Director Gregg Southwick said it was perfect timing after Gavin Duckworth stepped down following one season at the helm.
“He’s excited to get started,” said Southwick of Steed, who will be replacing Duckworth.
Duckworth guided Cottonwood to a 14-13 record and a berth in the 4A Super Regional last season. His predecessor, Chris Shelton, led the Colts to a 52-28 mark over three seasons before accepting a job as a pitching coach at SLCC alongside Crawford, who last managed Cottonwood to a 25-3 record and a 5A state championship in the 2018-19 season.
With Steed getting the seal of approval
from both Crawford and Shelton, according to Southwick, it should be a rather seamless transition not only for Steed himself but for the kids he’ll be coaching.
“He’s very familiar with the program and how Jason [Crawford] managed it, leading us to success,” Southwick said. “He also loves baseball and played it in school.”
The Colts return several key players this season, including Malcolm Mundy who was the team’s starting quarterback and has an offer from Ottawa University [Kansas] to play football there.
That will ease the sting of losing six players to graduation, a group that includes pitcher/infielder Austin Carver—who now plays at SLCC—along with several other former Colts such as big right-hander Robbie Jensen, who helped Cottonwood reach further than many anticipated at the 4A state tourney as well as Oliver Wayman, who finished last season ranked in the top 20 in 4A in triples.
That’s a lot of capable arms and bats for
Cottonwood to lose in one season. The job of getting the Colts back to the state tournament, however, and perhaps beyond the Super Regional falls into the hands of Steed.
Steed and the rest of the Colts won’t have long to wait; their first game is scheduled for March 3, weather permitting, at home against Uintah.
After that, Cottonwood will play at Summit Academy of Draper March 4 and travel to Gunnison Valley March 11 before returning to action at Viewmont and at Timpview, March 19 and 21.
Region 10 will again feature Juan Diego instead of Jordan, but for the last time will include the Tooele Valley schools Stansbury and Tooele due to the realignment starting in fall 2025. Hillcrest, Murray and Park City round out the six schools comprising Cottonwood’s region.
Tryouts are scheduled to begin later this month. l
Taylor Workman has already shattered the modern-day single season school record for assists, with 152, and is averaging 7.6 per game, along with 6.8 rebounds. (City Journals)
Building a City of Kindness: The Power of Community in South Salt Lake
In South Salt Lake, we are more than just neighbors; we are a community committed to ensuring that all residents enjoy lives of dignity, security, and well-being. This shared vision is drawn from the collective input of city leaders, partnerships, and residents like you, embodying our belief in a good life for everyone.
As part of our commitment to enhancing quality of life for all in our community, each year I meet with all Department leaders to discuss their budgetary needs and strategize for the upcoming fiscal year. I’m proud to say that our leaders are innovating and prioritizing with you in mind.
As we plan for the future, I also want to acknowledge that 2025 feels very different from other years for many of our residents. I’ve talked with many of our neighbors who are experiencing unease and uncertainty about the future.
So there could not be a better time for our partnership with the Semani Family Foundation and their ‘One Kind Act a Day’ initiative. Through this collaboration, we hope to inspire daily acts of kindness to those who live closest to us, recognizing their transformative power. Whether clearing sidewalks or checking on an elderly neighbor, kindness has the power to strengthen bonds and secure inclusivity in our community.
mayor@sslc.gov
Get the latest city news delivered to your inbox. Sign up for our monthly emails at SSLC.gov or scan QR code.
Monday - Friday • 8 am to 5 pm
To assist in that prioritizing, we are conducting a Community Values Study this month to better understand the topics our community cares most about. I urge you to participate if you receive this survey. Resident feedback will be critical to guiding our budget priorities over the next fiscal year to provide support and services where they are needed most.
I pledge to lead with kindness and dignity in all that I do. I encourage you to stay connected with those in your neighborhood and get engaged with the city by following our communication channels and attending city events and meetings.
Let’s continue to support, uplift, and serve one another in our community. Whether you’ve recently moved here or have called South Salt Lake home for a lifetime, we all recognize it as a City of Kindness. Now, more than ever, we need kindness and dignity to support a bright future for everyone.
Public Meetings
For more info: www.sslc.gov Planning Commission
Thu, March 6, 7 p.m. Thu, March 20, 7 p.m.
Mayor Cherie Wood
Create Your Ideal Yard, and Save Money Doing It
Spring is around the corner! Now is the time to start making plans to transform your yard into a beautiful, waterwise garden. The City of South Salt Lake is teaming up with Localscapes and the Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District to present two free classes about creating your ideal yard.
Protect Your Home Against Spring Run Off
For district maps and contact information, visit house.utleg.gov
Arlyn Bradshaw
Laurie Stringham At-Large A
For contact information, visit senate.utah.gov
Aimee Winder Newton District 3
Suzanne Harrison At-Large B
Romero District 4
Natalie Pinkney At-Large C
For district maps and contact information, visit saltlakecounty.gov/council
This class will teach the basics of the Localscapes method, introduce free local resources, and show attendees how to take advantage of substantial rebates available to residents through the Utah Water Savers program. If you’ve ever considered transforming your yard but view cost and knowhow as obstacles, these classes are for you.
Classes will take place on March 15 and April 17 at the South Salt Lake Community Center. Admission is free, but space is limited so reserve your spot today by scanning the QR code or visiting sslc.gov.
Your State and County Elected Officials
Do you know who represents you at state and county levels? Get to know your elected officials and never hesitate to contact them to share your feedback and concerns–that goes for the City Council as well.
Springtime in the Wasatch is famous for its blue skies, fresh flowers, and overflowing storm drains. While we get to enjoy the “best snow on earth”, we also have to deal with the consequences of it melting all at once. Situated at a low point in the valley, it’s critical that South Salt Lake maintain clean, free flowing storm drains so that all of the water moving beneath our city has somewhere to go, and doesn’t back up into our streets and homes. With over 3,000 storm drains in our city, employees are unable to monitor and clean them all, so we ask residents to help keep the ones in front of their homes free of trash and leaves. If you would like to go above and beyond, you can adopt a storm drain by visiting adopt-a-drain.org.
Welcome New Council Member Ray DeWolfe
Congratulations to Ray DeWolfe on his City Council appointment, filling the vacant At-large seat left by Natalie Pinkney. Ray’s previous experience on the Council and commitment to our community make him a valuable addition to our city’s legislative body.
At the January Council work meeting, the Council interviewed 17 great candidates all seeking to get involved and improve our community. In his interview, Ray emphasized the value of relationships and the importance of collaboration, even when disagreements arise. His priorities focus on ensuring smart growth and creating opportunities for our collective success. Thank you to all who participated in this process, and congratulations to Ray and the entire South Salt Lake City Council.
Utah House of Representatives Utah Senate Salt Lake County Council
Sahara Hayes HD 32 Grant Miller HD 24 Nate Blouin Senate District 13
Mental Health Crisis Care Center to Open This Month in South Salt Lake
Upcoming CERT Training
The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is a volunteer program that educates residents in emergency preparedness techniques specific to potential disasters in our area. Built around the federal program, CERT trains volunteers in basic disaster response skills such as fire safety, search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. CERT volunteers play an important role in saving lives and property during emergency situations. To become a member of CERT, you must first complete an online, at-your-own-pace training, and then attend a series of in-person trainings and a disaster simulation event. Our next series of in-person trainings will begin on April 24. Scan the QR code or visit the Emergency Management page at SSLC. gov for more information and to register for CERT courses.
SSLPD Annual Award Banquet
Message from SSLPD Chief Danielle Croyle
On behalf of the South Salt Lake Police Department, I extend my heartfelt congratulations on this well-deserved recognition to Officer Brayden Osborne as Officer of the Year. Your unwavering dedication, professionalism, and commitment to serving our community have set an exceptional standard for all of us. Your hard work, courage, and compassion do not go unnoticed, and this award is a testament to the positive impact you have made on your colleagues and the citizens you serve. Congratulations Officer Osborne!
Get Involved
South Salt Lake Public Safety Meetings
Civilian Review Board
Monday, March 3 at 6:30 pm
Monday, April 7 at 6:30 pm
Visit sslc.gov to learn more about the Civilian Review Board, or apply to be a member.
Neighborhood Watch
Thursday, March 6 at 7:00 pm
Neighborhood Watch meets virtually on the first Thursday of every month.
Visit sslc.gov for the zoom link or more information. Please call 801-412-3600 with questions.
Community Connect
Wednesday, March 5 at 10:30 am
Join us at South Salt Lake Community Center to have a treat and connect with members of the SSLPD and South Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce.
The Kem and Carolyn Gardner Mental Health Crisis Care Center will open on March 28 at 955 West 3300 South. To learn more, visit their website at healthcare.utah.edu/hmhi.
YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL
Easter Egg Hunt And
Friends
of Fitts Park
Community & Economic Development
Building South Salt Lake
South Salt Lake is feeling the housing crunch like all cities and states, which is why we’re excited to announce several for-sale housing options hitting the market in our city.
TheMONROE, located at 617 E 3900 S, celebrated their grand opening on February 22. Between nine buildings, 56 total 2-3 bedroom townhomes, and 19 live/work units, this development will bring a great addition to the Granite Legacy neighborhood in the form of new neighbors and local commerce. In addition to live-work housing/ storefront opportunities, theMONROE complex will be home to two pickleball courts, a dog park, a playground, and communal gathering areas. Home prices start at $585,000. Visit colewest.com for more information.
300 Lofts will bring 45 new two-to-three bedroom townhomes to 3383 South 300 East. Located within walking distance of the Century 16 movie theater and other local businesses along 3300 South and State Street, these units will bring new energy into a great neighborhood. Building permits have been issued for the 300 Lofts, and construction will begin soon.
To learn more about new development in our city, visit the Community Development page at: sslc.gov.
Chamber, email: tereza@sslchamber.com sslchamber.com
SOUTH SALT LAKE CHAMBER CORNER
SSL Youth City Council Visits Washington DC Youth Leadership Conference
Five members of the South Salt Lake Youth City Council were selected to attend the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America 2025 National Leadership Forum in Washington DC. This conference brings together community coalitions from around the country to strengthen community building skills and help youth gain the skills necessary to keep their communities safe, healthy, and drug free. Attendees were given the unique opportunity to share and learn from others about strategies to address health and substance misuse related issues.
Aside from the professional learning and networking opportunities, our Youth City Council had the chance to do some sightseeing and visit important national landmarks and museums. This experience granted our council an invaluable chance to foster connectedness, develop their leadership skills, and learn first hand how to affect change in local and national spaces.
Inspired by their time in Washington, the Youth City Council has resolved to produce a youth-led podcast series to raise awareness of mental health and substance misuse issues in our community. Their hope is to reduce stigma around these topics, and inspire change by sharing their personal experiences and promoting community resources. Stay tuned for more information as this project develops to learn how you can stay in the loop and support our Council moving forward.
Scouting America launches statewide food drive
Thousands of Utah children face food insecurity.
By Collette Hayes c.hayes@mycityjournals.com
The Utah Food Bank reports that hunger affects 1 in 6 children in Utah. The state saw an increase from 93,000 food-insecure children in 2021 to 143,000 recently, marking a 53% increase. School-age children facing food insecurity are more likely to be absent, hyperactive, and struggle academically in school. Prolonged food deprivation in children can lead to severe mental and physical health challenges. To address food insecurity among children in Utah, Crossroads of the West Council, a local scout council of Scouting America, launched its 39th annual Scouting for Food Drive in February.
A kick-off event was held Feb. 6 at the
Granite Education Foundation Donation & Distribution Center in Murray. This year’s food drive sponsors were Bank of Utah, Red Hanger Cleaners, Young Automotive Group, Arctic Circle, Utah National Guard, and Smith’s Food and Drug. The sponsors joined together in launching the annual drive and asked the public to help fill the state pantries with nutritious and nonperishable canned and boxed foods. Each of the sponsors actively supported the food drive by donating bags to customers, publicizing the food drive, and acting as a collection site for donors.
According to Lorna Koci, chair of the Scouting for Food Drive, the event is supported by a partnership with the Souper Bowl of Caring, a statewide initiative dedicated to fighting hunger locally. It wasn’t a coincidence that Saturday, Feb. 8, was targeted as Scouting for Food Day, when the public typically shops for their Super Bowl
parties held on Sunday.
“We are calling on the public to help fill our state pantries with nutritious canned foods such as beef stew, soups, canned meats and vegetables,” Koci said. “We will be asking for food donations at 53 Smith’s Food and Drug stores across the state. Additionally, we are mobilizing 400 Cub Scout packs, Scout troops, and Venture crews to help provide food for 16 community pantries across Utah.”
The food drive came at a time when food supplies at local food pantries were beginning to thin, primarily due to the holiday season. Last year, the drive collected over 100,000 pounds of food for Utahns experiencing food insecurity. This year, Scouts across Utah hoped to gather even more food in an ongoing effort to fight hunger across the state. The Utah National Guard provided the essential workforce, resources and equipment to collect food items from various locations and then made deliveries to the food pantries.
Granite School District is the third largest district in Utah, serving over 58,000 students. Approximately 2,700 students qualify for the federal free and reduced lunch program, and 1,600 students are experiencing some level of homelessness in their communities. The Scouting for Food Drive in Salt Lake County will specifically target the food needs of children in the Granite School District by collecting food donations for the Granite Education Foundation. This 501(c) (3) charitable organization provides essential resources for students, teachers and schools within the District.
“We hope that people in Salt Lake County will be donating food items for their
children's hunger school programs,” Koci said. On Feb. 8, Smith’s stores had special requests and lists for food items needed in the Granite School District. “These items will provide food-insecure children with a meal before, during, and after school and on the weekend. These types of programs will be happening throughout the state as well as in Granite,” Koci said.
According to the Utah Food Bank, many families in Utah are often forced to make difficult choices between basic needs, such as paying rent, keeping the lights on or buying groceries.
“The current economic challenges in our state are impacting many families,” Granite School District social worker Sherrie Sanchez said. “The cost of food at the grocery stores has increased significantly. Feeding a family of four isn’t what it used to be. It’s difficult for kids to focus on schoolwork if they haven’t had their first meal of the day. We are grateful that we can provide students with the food they need, made available through donations to the Granite Education Foundation. We know this is a place we can turn to for support when there are challenges.”
Vincent Ni was one of several scouts that welcomed shoppers Feb. 8 at the Smith’s Food and Drug store on Bengal Boulevard in Cottonwood Heights. He encouraged shoppers to donate food to the drive and shared information about the special request items.
“The most important thing about the scout food drive is, it benefits people who go hungry every day,” Ni said. “We’re helping someone to have a better life, at least, I hope so.” l
To address food insecurity among children in Utah, Crossroads of the West Council launched its 39th annual Scouting for Food Drive in February. (Photo courtesy Scouting America)
Four hundred Cub Scout packs, Scout troops, and Venture crews were mobilized to provide food for 16 community pantries across Utah. (Photo courtesy Scouting America)
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Unity on the dance floor: Granite District hosts inclusive sweethearts dance
Local schools celebrate community and togetherness at unified sweethearts dance.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
Hunter High sophomore Daniela Pacheco was excited to be on the dance floor.
“I take a dance class so it’s going to be fun dancing here with my friends,” she said.
She, along with a busload of her classmates, arrived at Kearns High School just ahead of the Feb. 13 snowstorm for the Granite School District’s unified Sweethearts dance. Buses from across the District, as well as from Murray High, brought students—both with and without disabilities—together for the special event.
Dressed in suits, ties and elegant dresses, the students entered the gymnasium, which had been transformed with red, white, and pink balloons, bows, crepe paper and other festive decorations, all put together by Kearns High student government members hours earlier that day.
“My favorite part is preparing everything and seeing the excitement on their faces as they arrive,” said Kearns sophomore vice president Deven Glade. “We want everyone to feel included at school dances. This one is for unified students, their peer tutors and student governments. It’s going to be fun, just less crowded, but the same music.”
Students danced to the music of Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, Chappell Roan and others played by DJ Russ Powell from Squawkbox Sound, who donated his time. In between songs some students posed at a photo shoot, donated by Bell Photography, or had snacks provided by the Granite Education Foundation.
Kearns High special education teacher Natalie Nelson highlighted the significance of the event.
“It’s a big deal for our students to connect with their peers outside the classroom,” she said. “This dance also offers a chance for special ed students to interact with their peers, the peer tutors and student leaders from other schools.”
Emily Williams, Kearns’ unified coach and student body advisor, said the idea grew out of Kearns hosting their first unified prom last May.
“I talked with unified coaches from other schools who held their own dances, so we thought it would be a fun idea for everyone to have a dance together,” she said. “Unified sports have opened the doors for inclusion, allowing kids from all walks of life to be part of the community. Now, all our students can have fun at a dance together.”
Hunter High special education teacher John Young said the event was a wonderful opportunity for his students.
“This dance brings together unified programs from across our district and from Murray High,” he said. “It’s a chance for students to connect with their peers, the same ones they play sports with, and now they get to interact in a social setting. It’s a great way for them to get to know each other better.”
Cottonwood High senior Alizia Sherard was doing just that.
“I love dancing,” she said. “My grandma got me this dress, and it’s just beautiful. I’m having so much fun, dancing and meeting new friends.”
Murray High senior Eleanor Myers, president of her school’s chapter of Best Buddies, an organization promoting friendship and leadership for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, said inclusive events are important.
“I love the inclusion unified sports gives us and this is an extension of it by getting everyone together and being accepting of one another,” she said.
Hunter High peer tutor and senior Jada Tingley appreciates the sense of community.
“It’s such a friendly environment,” she said. “You always get a smile and a positive response, no matter who you talk to.”
Granite District Superintendent Ben Horsley smiled as he saw the students dancing together.
“These activities exemplify why public education is important,” he said. “This doesn’t happen anywhere, but in public education, where we have a chance for our special education students to interact in enjoyable social activities and educational experiences with their traditional educational counterparts. So, whether it’s the unified theater program, the unified sports program or the unified dance, it’s as important of an experience for our special education students as it is for our traditional students.
learn valuable skills beyond the educational realm when they have opportunity to interact and support our special education students.” l
We’d love to see these types of things continue to expand. Our traditional ed kids
High school students from Granite School District and Murray High dance at the unified Sweethearts prom. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
High school students from Granite School District and Murray High took to the floor during an inclusive dance at Kearns High. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Granite School District and Murray High students with and without disabilities danced together at the unified Sweethearts prom while snow blanketed the Salt Lake Valley floor outside. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
We often talk about infamous warriors like Harriet Tubman, Susan B. Anthony, Amelia Earhart, and justice OG Ruth Bader Ginsburg, but so many women have left their mark on this world without acclaim, awards or national days.
President Trump’s executive order mandates a pause on federal events promoting diversity, including Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Pride Month and Holocaust Remembrance Day. But I’m not a federal employee and refuse to follow his directive. Happy Women’s History Month!
Throughout the ages, women are described as the gentler sex, the homemakers and the caretakers. And, yes, women are given those roles. But women are also fierce queens, savage muses, legendary goddesses and wild forces of nature.
We often talk about infamous warriors like Harriet Tubman, Susan B. Anthony and Supreme Court Justice (and original-gangster) Ruth Bader Ginsburg, but so many women have left their mark on this world without acclaim, awards or national days.
Women like Mrs. Strange who made storytime at the Murray Library a magical experience. Her rendition of “The Three Billy Goats Gruff” was an Oscar-worthy perfor-
Peri Kinder Life and Laughter
A Woman’s Work
mance. When the biggest billy goat knocked the mean, ugly troll off the bridge, we all cheered in triumph.
Or women like Frankie Whipple, my long-suffering, patient, eternally-frustrated piano teacher. She listened to my musical scales, arpeggios and recital pieces without visibly wincing. Usually. The only annoyance she displayed was when I didn’t do my music theory lesson for five years straight.
Mrs. Lambert taught my second grade class at Viewmont Elementary. Under her guidance, I went from reading to show off to reading for pleasure. She taught me poetry, art and a life-lesson about friendship. Plus, she wore hip,‘70s polyester pantsuits that looked amazing.
Grandma Brickey was a fearless powerhouse. She loved her grandkids without judgement and let us eat all her chocolate raisin cake. Widowed for decades, she had many boyfriends but refused to give up her independence. She was a dancing queen, a
vivacious flirt and a woman who lived life on her own terms.
When I was 12-years-old, a neighbor lady trusted me to watch her children all summer. Thanks to her, I quickly learned I was a terrible babysitter and should probably never have children.
Women like Ms. Pettis, my ninth-grade English teacher at Riverview Junior High, taught me that even when I thought my life was over, I was valuable to her. She showed up at my home every week to make sure I stayed on top of my assignments and she encouraged my writing. She is a hero.
My Aunt Judy created a safe place for 8-year-old me when I ran away from home because Mom was censoring the books I read. She didn’t think “Jaws” was an acceptable summer read for a third-grader but Aunt Judy let me stay the night until I calmed down. Then I read “Jaws” in secret.
Renee Smith was my dance instructor for eight years. She taught me tap, jazz and ballet, and encouraged me to try out for “The Nutcracker”. But because I wasn’t actually coordinated, I never landed a part. She always believed I would. At least she said she did.
Mom was an unrivaled teacher, encouraging me to read (except “Jaws”), write poetry, make music, dance, ride bikes, play basketball and try new things. It wasn’t her
fault I didn’t see her value until I became a mom.
My daughters, my granddaughters, my sisters, my nieces, my cousins, my aunts, my grandmothers, my friends, my colleagues, my teachers: all these women have made me what I am today. Yes, it’s their fault.
Even when the president (and Google) removes Women’s History Month from the calendar, women will do what we’ve always done: help other women to be powerful, to find their voice, to live their passion, to stand up for what’s right, to lead and to shine brighter than ever. Don’t mistake our gentle demeanor for passivity.
