South Salt Lake City Journal | April 2024

INDUSTRIAL PARK TO TAKE THE PLACE OF POPULAR SSL GOLF COURSE

By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com

Apopular golf course in South Salt Lake has been negotiating a deal with another company about buying them out of their lease.

The property is currently owned by Central Valley Water, who has been leasing it to Golf the Round. They were approached by Dakota Pacific Real Estate in 2021 to buy it from them.

“DPRE approached the city about finding land to develop light industrial as a potential relocation opportunity of the industrial base in the redeveloping downtown area,” said Jonathan Weidenhamer, community and economic development director. “This project is a direct result of these efforts and discussions.”

The negotiations were kept quiet until January 2023 when the South Salt Lake City Council passed a rezone of the golf course area from commercial corridor to flex zone.

Golf the Round representatives have been tight-lipped about the deal, and while the company has not released a public statement, they have voluntarily entered into and executed a lease buyout agreement with DPRE.

The industrial park would include four buildings that will equal out to around 1 million square feet. Discussions about the project are still in talks after several meetings with school districts, the South Salt Lake City Council and other companies involved.

DPRE estimates the project will need a budget of almost $165 million to complete the industrial park. This change will

High-quality, innovative health care with a heavy dose of compassion

With a focus on health care excellence, community service and faith – the doctors, nurses and care teams at Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley and Holy Cross Hospital - Jordan Valley West are committed to compassionate and high-quality care for their neighbors.

It has been nearly a year since CommonSpirit Health took over five Wasatch Front hospitals that now bear the name Holy Cross, a reference to the Sisters of the Holy Cross, who brought Catholic, faith-based health care to the people of Utah nearly 150 years ago. Today, the hospitals are reinvigorating the Sisters’ vision while caring for all with open arms.

“Our care is focused on neighbors helping neighbors, whether they be in West Jordan, West Valley City, or our surrounding communities,” said Christine McSweeney, CEO of both Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley in West Jordan, and Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley West in West Valley City. “Our care providers live in these communities, and we are committed to playing an active role in improving the health of those around us –inside and outside of our hospital walls.”

Besides innovative health care in services that include orthopedics, bariatric programs, a cancer center, heart care, stroke accreditation and a Trauma III ER, the hospital’s teams are actively involved in helping to make the communities better, from leading food drives at local schools to partnering with the American Heart Association to educate our communities on heart health.

Through its Hello Humankindness program, CommonSpirit is actively promoting the health benefits

of kindness and recognizing employees who go above and beyond the call of their jobs to help those in need.

“We believe that simple acts of kindness have a profound impact on the lives of our patients and communities, in addition to the medical expertise that our doctors and nurses provide,” McSweeney said.

The community-focused work also involves close partnerships with local first responders, including fire departments and EMS agencies, who understand the advanced medical care that CommonSpirit provides at its Holy Cross hospitals when patients need an ambulance.

“They know we have some of the most advanced stroke care in our communities and some of the most advanced heart care,” McSweeney added.

CommonSpirit’s mission includes advancing social justice for all, and last fall, it bestowed eight grants from its Health Equity & Advancement Fund to local nonprofits that are working every day to improve lives in ways that include health screenings for Spanishspeaking neighbors and mental health treatment for children and families.

With a long legacy of service and healing, CommonSpirit is just getting started in extending health care excellence for all Utahns at the Holy Cross hospitals.

“Our vision is a healthier future for all – inspired by faith, driven by innovation, and powered by our humanity,” McSweeney said.

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

When

things go wrong, we provide the right care.

Christine McSweeney, CEO

SSL promotes neighborhood cohesion with grant program

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

I n a time where people interact through digital screens, and often don’t know their neighbors, the City of South Salt Lake devised a way to foster community engagement. The Neighborhood Block Party Grant is available again after it debuted last year in the city.

Residents are encouraged to create opportunities to build relationships, engage in fun activities and develop bonds in their neighborhoods.

“It was very successful last year and we were super happy with how it turned out,” said Joseph Dane, SSL public outreach coordinator. “It’s bringing neighborhoods and neighbors together to build community because when we have strong neighborhoods we have a strong community that looks out for each other.”

This year’s grant program will award five grants at $500 each to residents in the city who would like to host an event like a potluck barbecue, dance party or any other get-together that creates connection. Last year’s events included a summer gala and a Halloween party.

SSL resident Arthur Debowski held a music concert in his backyard last year, using the city’s grant to rent portable toilets. With more than 50 people in attendance, he wanted to ensure everyone had access to clean facilities. Debowski said the concert was a success and hopes to apply for another grant for an event this fall.

“There are very few places in our society where you can get together with people and you’re not expected to spend money,” Debowski said. “It’s something we lack in this country, community events that are open to all and you’re just there to hang out with your friends and neighbors.”

SSL’s Neighborhood Block Party Grant application is open through June 30

and events must take place by Oct. 31. The $500 can be used toward items like food, door prizes and entertainment, but cannot be used for the purchase of alcohol, tent or stage rental, or permanent play equipment. Event hosts must apply for a special event permit at least two weeks before the event if approved.

Hosts can also request the city’s firefighters, police officers, mayor or councilmembers to be in attendance. For more information, visit sslc.gov/366/Block-Party-Grant.

“This is definitely geared more toward neighbors coming together, creating relationships and forming bonds,” Dane said. “We have a lot of new residents coming into South Salt Lake with younger people moving in as older people are moving out, or whatever the case might be. There’s an ever-changing flux in our city here. So it’s great to have this opportunity where new neighbors and older neighbors come together in this way.”

Debowski hopes as block parties gain momentum in the city, people will be more willing to leave the comfort of their homes and interact with the people around them. He grew up on the East Coast in an area that had lots of walkable events and community gatherings, so he hopes it catches on in SSL.

“It’s relatively common in Europe and my theory is that in America we’ve structured our societies where everybody’s got a relatively large house and you’ve taken community elements and put them in your own house, so you don’t have to leave or spend time with other people. It’s like a personal kingdom,” Debowski said. “But adding things like concerts or having movies in our yard gets people out of their houses to come together.” l

may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the owner. © 2019 Loyal Perch Media, Inc.

Neighbors of South Salt Lake City resident Arthur Debowski attend a live music concert in his backyard in 2023. Using grant money from SSL, Debowski held a block party to bring people together. (Photo courtesy of Arthur Debowski)

City offers training on flood preparedness this spring

By Bailey Chism | b.chism@mycityjournals.com

As spring arrives, South Salt Lake is keeping watch for the possibility of flooding from snowmelt. Flooding can occur quickly, though, leaving little time to react. So, the city will be holding a flood preparedness training on April 4 to help residents learn how to prepare and handle a flood situation.

The training will provide residents with tips on how to stay safe during a flooding event, information on how to effectively fill and disperse sandbags, and how to deploy mobile dams. They will have a presentation from the National Weather Service on flood predictions and food safety tips.

Last year, South Salt Lake and the whole of Salt Lake County dealt with severe flooding from snowmelt in the mountains.

“Last year, SSL Emergency Management worked with our CERT team, community members, and SSL employees to fill 30,000 sandbags in the event of a flooding event,” said Yasmin Abbyad, South Salt Lake Emergency Management coordinator.

According to the National Weather Service website, preparing for a flood can save your life and give you peace of mind as one occurs. They recommend creating a communications plan with friends and family to know how to get in contact with each other should a flood start. Whether it’s a simple text or a location to meet at if things get bad, having that plan can help people get out quickly if the situation calls for it.

The training provided by South Salt Lake will teach people how to prepare their home, so if evacuation is needed, the home will still be safe. South Salt Lake Emergency Management Team will explain how to

properly fill sandbags and the right way to lay them to keep houses safe from flood water.

“During the Flood Preparedness and Response training our goal is to share predictions for possible flooding from the National Weather Service, to share tips and tricks to protect yourself and your property during a flood event and learn how you can volunteer with South Salt Lake if we see a flood event this spring or in the future by setting up mobile dams and filling and stacking sandbags,” Abbyad said.

South Salt Lake Emergency Management encourages all South Salt Lake residents to sign-up for alerts to receive notifications to your phone in emergency situations.

“Signing up for emergency alerts helps residents know if there is an emergency or incident happening in South Salt Lake,” Abbyad said. “This helps keep you and your loved ones safe.”

Abbyad and the rest of the management team are searching for volunteers to the community in times of crisis. To sign-up to be a volunteer, go to the Emergency Management website, www.sslc.gov/413/Emergency-Management, and fill out the form on the right side of the page.

South Salt Lake is also holding a Community Emergency Response Team training. Residents can take the online portion and join them in person in June for additional training.

The flood preparedness training will take place at the Co-Op at South Salt Lake Community Center, 2530 S. 500 East, on April 4 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. l

South Salt Lake community members gather to help fill sandbags to prevent flooding. (Photo courtesy of South Salt Lake Emergency Management Team)

South Salt Lake community members prepare sandbags for residents in danger of flooding. (Photo courtesy of South Salt Lake Emergency Management Team)

Sandbags are used to prevent water damage due to flooding. (Photo courtesy of South Salt Lake Emergency Management Team)

Cottonwood boys basketball finishes as the 4A state tournament runner-up

By Brian Shaw | b.shaw@mycityjournals.com

As the season inched closer to the 4A state basketball tournament, Cottonwood Athletic Director Greg Southwick confessed to the City Journals that this might be the best Colts boys basketball team, ever.

“We could surprise a few people,” he said, right before the state tournament and the conclusion of the regular season.

Cottonwood [21-6] had an undefeated 12-0 season and won an outright Region 10 title. True to what Southwick said, the Colts had a run all the way to the 4A championship game that nobody will soon forget.

It wouldn’t end on the floor of that UCCU Center in Orem until the Colts had lost by the razor-thin margin of five points, 53-58 to Layton Christian on Feb. 28.

Chris Cox, Cottonwood’s star player who transferred back to the school from AZ Compass Prep in Arizona in midseason, had body after Layton Christian body draped all over him to slow the Utah State commit down.

But, Cox (pictured here) was able to crack that code toward the end of the third quarter of the state championship game, keying an 8-3 Cottonwood run that helped the Colts overcome a 12-point deficit.

On Cottonwood’s last points of that third quarter, a turnover led to a Cox attempt at a putback with :02 left, but he was fouled. Cox drilled both free throws to narrow the Layton Christian advantage to seven points at 36-43 after three quarters.

All told, Cottonwood got back in this game thanks to a stingy defense.

The Colts still needed a little help from

the offense. But two good looks bounced out and that led to two transition baskets for Layton Christian.

With 6:12 to go in the 4A championship game, the Colts now trailed 36-47. That’s when Cox, out of a timeout, had a nifty layup. On Cottonwood’s next possession, a coast-to-coast run on his dribble led to a foul and two more frees that Cox swished.

Then, Cox blocked a shot. And with 4:27 to go in Cottonwood’s season, Cox spun and floated his 23rd and 24th points of the night to cut it to 44-49, the closest Cottonwood had been since the first quarter. This 8-2 Colts run gave them life.

With 2:53 to go, junior Luke Park tipped the ball away on an inbounds play and got the steal but Cox’s three-point attempt bounced off the rim.

A corner three from Layton Christian swished but with 2:06 showing on the giant scoreboard at the UVU Center, Park zinged down the court for a layup to trim the deficit back to six at 46-52.

With 1:30 to play, the Colts played the foul game. Layton Christian got one free throw to go, but 6-foot-4 senior Peter Oguama got a putback on the other end of the floor.

After two Layton Christian clanks at the free throw line, Park’s pass to 6-foot-1 senior Ryan Nielson for a potential three to trim the LC lead to just two points was too high and sailed out of bounds.

A Layton Christian turnover kept the score at 48-53, but Cottonwood’s attempt at a floater wouldn’t go from Nielson with :45

to go.

That was when Cottonwood got a big break. Moments after Layton Christian knocked down two more free throws to put the Colts in a 48-55 hole, Colts junior John Rosevear was fouled on a 3-point attempt, and with the clock stopped drilled two frees to keep the LC lead at five.

Playing the foul game for the final :21 though, Layton Christian drained three more from the line to seal the loss for Cottonwood after the Colts had scored the final points.

All in all, it was a great year for Cottonwood, who got a monster of a performance by Cox, the Utah State signee who for the

final time in his storied career would have a game to remember.

Cox had 26 points, 11 rebounds and four blocked shots to lead the Colts. Rosevear added 11 points and Luke Park six. Oguama scored four points and had three blocks while Nielson and MJ Diemoz each had three points.

Prior to the championship game at this state tournament, the Colts reeled off a win over Bear River at home [65-49] in the 4A second round and then hung on for hardfought victories over Logan in the quarters [52-48] and semis [48-45 over Snow Canyon] that led them to this moment. l

Spring Into Action Campaign to collect donations for vulnerable children in Utah

The Christmas season brings lots of donations to The Christmas Box International, an organization that hosts emergency shelters and resource centers for children. But the nonprofit assists children all year, not just during the holidays, and needs help to raise funds and in-kind donations.

“As spring arrives, we step in to bridge any gaps left from the holidays and start planning for our summer necessities,” states Celeste Edmunds, The Christmas Box International executive director. “We are seeking new pants and $50 Visa birthday cards.”

Edmunds grew up in the state’s foster care system and knows exactly what these youth are experiencing. “The children we are helping are not looking for much, just a sense of normalcy and belonging, like getting a new shirt with a tag on it, or not having to borrow a bathing suit or pair of jeans.”

Wish lists and online donations are available at Thechristmasbox.org. In-kind

donations are accepted Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at The Christmas Box International (3660 S. West Temple Street). For questions, email kristin@ thechristmasbox.org. (Photo courtesy of The Christmas Box International) l

Volunteers gather donations this spring to help more than 1,000 children at The Christmas Box International. (Photo courtesy of The Christmas Box International)

Cottonwood softball earns its first win in almost two years

By Brian Shaw | b.shaw@mycityjournals.com

It’s been a long time since the Cottonwood softball team has won a game. To be more specific, it’s been 720 days and one hour.

“The girls were pretty excited and optimistic before the game,” said Cottonwood head softball coach Natalie Wonnacott. “We played Highland last year and lost in the seventh inning so we felt like we could get this one.”

For Cottonwood [1-4], the game on March 18 started well. The Colts jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning after junior Gretta Lewis retired the side. In a duel that was seesaw from the outset, Highland scored eight runs in the top of the second.

The Colts would answer with five runs of their own to tie the game at 8-8 going into the top of the third inning.

Lewis settled down, allowing just one run in the top of the inning. After three innings played, Cottonwood trailed by the score of 8-9.

At that point, you could’ve forgiven the doubters for wondering if the Colts, who hadn’t won a game since March 28, 2022 [a 19-12 victory over rival Hillcrest], were going to pull this one out.

But, with Lewis back in a groove, she again retired the side in the top of the fourth, handing the keys to the car to Cottonwood’s hitters.

The Colts exploded for seven runs in the bottom of the fifth inning and Lewis held off

the Highland bats just enough to capture a 1514 victory.

“We almost let them come back at the top of the seventh but we are working to get better each game,” Wonnacott said. “It feels good to get a win so the girls can see that they are improving, and we will continue to work hard and focus on the fundamentals each game.”

For Lewis, it was her first win on the mound as a Colt in 18 tries. The junior allowed eight hits over six innings of work and struck out 12 Highland batters.

For the Colts, they had a few players who contributed to the historic win that snapped a 36-game losing streak.

Sophomores Tialer Mounts and Emmarique Gilbert each had three RBI for Cottonwood and Abigail Burton, another sophomore, knocked home two runners. Senior James Wilking and Samanntha Rodriguez each drove in a run as well for the Colts, who turned around the next day and lost 1-11 at Jordan on March 19. In that game, Mounts slapped an RBI triple for Cottonwood.

The Colts also lost 5-27 at Tooele on March 15 a few days prior to the victory, but the bats looked alive. Mounts hit a solo home run for the Colts and had an RBI double. Gilbert added two RBI and Rodriguez drove one base runner home.

Prior to those games, the Colts lost 0-15 at Stansbury on March 12 that was called after

three innings of play due to the 10-run UHSAA rule.

And Cottonwood scored four runs in a 4-25 loss at Corner Canyon to open the season March 9. Sophomore Abigail Burton slapped in two runs for this Colts team that also got an RBI apiece from Wilking and senior Alanis Gutierrez.

For coach Wonnacott, she knows there’s work to be done—but there are plenty of signs of progress.

“After the game [the win over Highland] they were thrilled because it took a great team effort,” Wonnacott said. “We had lots of little things that went our way. We got some good strikeouts and had some hits and smart base running. We still have things that need to be cleaned up. It is a fun group of girls to coach, and I am optimistic we will see some more suc cess.”

The 2023-24 Cottonwood Colts soft ball team is: Sophia Arlene, Jane Wonnacott, Jocelyn Menese, Tialer Mounts, Juliet Lewis, Piper Wilking, Mele Solomone-Halaeua, Ala nis Gutierrez, Maria Mavatez Gonzalez, Em marique Gilbert, Allison Hexem, Gretta Lewis, Housna Saleh, Adriana Gonsalves, Samanntha Rodriguez, Lola Grover, James Wilking, Eimi Vatuvei, Gisel Oxlaj, Abigail Burton, Taylor Clark, Breeya Busey, Zoey Wonnacott, Anna Ata’ata, Penina Vatuvei, Vika Pauni and Ame lia Vainuku. l

AND THE

The 2023-24 Cottonwood softball team. (Photo courtesy Natalie Wonnacott)

Cremation Services

You can count on a variety of options for cremation services when you choose Larkin Mortuary.

LOCAL FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

Taking Care of your Family’s Needs every step of the way

You may choose a burial plot, urn garden, scattering gardens, columbarium niche, or memory wall at our on-site crematory. Whether your family would like a direct cremation without a ceremony or would like to enlist the help of our funeral planners for a memorial ceremony, we are here to help. Choose traditional funeral services or life celebrations to honor the life of your loved one.

As you plan the end-of-life services, there are dozens of decisions to make during an emotional time. LET OUR TEAM HELP YOU choose urns, vaults, and memorials. We can also help with flower arrangements, catering, and grief resources.

Larkin Mortuary

260 East South Temple

Salt Lake City, UT 84111 (801) 363-5781

Larkin Sunset Gardens

1950 East Dimple Dell Road (10600 S.) • Sandy, UT 84092 (801) 571-2771

WE CAN ARRANGE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR MILITARY HONORS & VETERAN SERVICES IN ANY TYPE OF PROGRAM

Larkin Sunset Lawn

2350 East 1300 South Salt Lake City, UT 84108 (801) 582-1582

Larkin Mortuary Riverton

3688 West 12600 South Riverton, UT 84065 (801) 254-4850

LarkinMortuary.com

Co-champions will attend the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C.

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

For the first time, co-champions were crowned at the Greater Northern Utah Spelling Bee. Held on March 23, more than 160 students from 100 schools participated at the annual event. In the end, Sophia Montana (12) and Brooke Powell (13), decided to share the title. They will both travel to Washington, D.C. at the end of May to compete at the Scripps National Spelling Bee.

It was Sophia’s first year at the spelling bee. A sixth grader at Daybreak Elementary in South Jordan, she studied the word list for hours every day. She’s excited to represent her school at the national event.

“This is a surprise, but I guess I was prepared,” she said. “I’m excited to see my cousin because she lives in Washington, D.C.”

Brooke, a homeschooled student from Fruit Heights, finished second in last year’s bee. This was her third year competing and she credits her calm demeanor on stage to lots of study and prayer.

“I studied a lot so I’m excited to have a break,” she said.

Vedhav Devarajan (12), a student from Jordan Hills Elementary in West Jordan, finished third at the bee.

The City Journals has sponsored the regional spelling bee since 2014 and pays for the trip to Washington, D.C. for the winner and one parent. Planet Tooth Pediatric Dentistry in West Valley sponsored a second speller this year, so two spellers could attend the national bee.

During the competition, Brooke and Sophia could have continued spelling until one was named champion at the Greater Northern Utah Spelling Bee but they agreed to relieve some stress and share the title.

Bryan Scott, owner and publisher of the City Journals believes it’s important to hold the

event each year. He’s streamlined the process so the bee doesn’t last all day. All spellers completed a written test at the start of the competition and everyone had the chance to spell one word on the stage. After that, 20 students moved onto the final round to compete for the state championship. Scott was excited to see the winners agree to share first place.

“I think it makes the end a little happier for people, but I think it gives us double the chance to get Utah recognized,” Scott said. “It’s just super fun to see the kids and particularly the kids that are here today.”

Last year’s winner, Surya Kapu, showed up at the bee to support the students. He finished tied for third place at last year’s national event. Although he was too old to compete this year, he thought he’d give the winners some advice.

“Just try your best and keep having fun and learning the words,” he said. “[At nationals], try to calm down, take a deep breath and remind yourself that you worked for this. Rely on all the work that you’ve done.”

Lisa Morgan Johnson, Brigham Young University assistant professor and linguist, was the pronouncer for the bee. Ron Squire (Jordan Hills Elementary), Wayne Rust (Aspen Elementary) and Tom Haraldsen (City Journals) were judges for the event. RubySnap provided cookies for the participants and lunch for the judges was provided by Great Harvest.

The Scripps National Spelling Bee is a week-long experience for spellers and their families. From May 26-31, they will attend special events and workshops, take excursions into Washington, D.C. and compete in the nationally televised competition May 28-30. For more information, visit SpellingBee.com. l

The Greater Northern Utah Spelling Bee crowned two champions on March 23. Brooke Powell (left) and Sophia Montana (right) will compete at the Scripps National Spelling Bee in May in Washington, D.C. (City Journals)

State and county leaders prioritize child sexual abuse education

The numbers are startling…one in seven Utah children are sexually abused before they turn 18 and there is a 91% chance they are abused by someone they know and trust. The chances are high that a child in your social circle is being sexually abused. Children tell an average of three adults that they are being hurt before someone helps them. It is critically important that we believe children if they tell us, and not let our surprise or fears get in the way of protecting them.

I firmly believe that when a society is committed to the healthy development and protection of children, it significantly contributes to the future prosperity and well-being of that society. As a Salt Lake County Councilmember, in my role at the State in the Office of Families, and as a former board member for Prevent Child Abuse Utah, I’ve been committed to supporting policies to protect children.

This past legislative session, I took particular interest in bill SB 205—a bill dedicated to protecting children from the harms of sexual abuse by expanding in-classroom sexual abuse prevention education for all of Utah’s students in kindergarten through sixth grade. I’m thrilled to say that it passed with unanimous support.

This bill was initiated by The Policy Project, Malouf Foundation, Saprea and Prevent Child Abuse Utah. It was included in Gov. Spencer Cox’s budget. Legislators recognized that child sexual abuse is a bigger problem in our state than most people realize and were committed to protecting children.

Aimee Winder Newton

can help children recognize inappropriate behaviors, and learn to understand boundaries which will empower them to speak up if they experience or witness abuse— likely preventing further victimization or long-term psychological harm.

Furthermore, in-classroom prevention education provides parents with the resources they need to engage in conversations about safety and boundaries with their children and gives teachers the tools to recognize distress signals from children and be able to guide students to proper resources.

Currently, in the state of Utah, only 11% of our elementary students receive any type of sexual abuse prevention education. Studies show that early intervention

Prevention strategies can break the cycle of abuse and protect vulnerable children from revictimization. Calling and reporting abuse is another way you can help break this cycle. Utah law requires any person who has reason to believe that a child has been subjected to abuse or neglect to immediately notify Child and Family Services or law enforcement. Abuse of a child can be physical, emotional, or sexual and can be reported at 1-855-323-3237.

As Utahns, we should be doing everything we can to protect our children. Childhood trauma impacts both mental and physical health well into adulthood. Healthy children and healthy adults are a top priority! l

Continued from front page

also end up saving the city and its residents money.

“Because CVWRF is a tax-exempt organization that exists to provide wastewater reclamation services to surrounding stakeholder municipalities, they are not required to pay property taxes,” Weidenhamer said. “Currently, very little ‘privilege tax’ is collected from GTR in its operation on the tax-exempt land as a for-profit golf course. By redeveloping the golf course into an industrial park, the project will generate [money] in incremental tax revenue for the taxing entities and [money] for South Salt Lake specifically.”

The new development would also produce between 400 and 800 additional jobs and bring in around $1.9 million in annual tax revenue. These jobs would be wide over the spectrum, from low-skilled labor to highskilled manufacturing labor. This is also in addition to the hundreds of jobs that will need to be filled throughout the construction process.

A more compelling argument is the amount of water it would save the city— water that could go to the greatly depleted Great Salt Lake. According to an estimate from CVW, the golf course uses around 150 million to 180 million gallons of water every year. By redeveloping the site into the indus-

trial park, it’s estimated the water usage will be reduced by around 140 million to 170 million gallons of water per year.

DPRE estimates that the construction of the light industrial park will take between five to seven years. This will include renovations off-site, as well. Those renovations will include adding an acceleration lane, two deceleration lanes, median modifications with a left-turn lane, and a fourth leg added to an existing three-way signalized intersection to provide functional access to the site.

On March 27, the South Salt Lake City Council voted to approve and adopt the plan and budget and continue moving forward with the project. l

Digital model of the redevelopment of Golf the Round. (Photo courtesy of Jonathan Weidenhamer)

Golf the Round golf course enters into a lease buyout agreement to redevelop the land into an industrial park.

Golfers swing away on the driving range at Golf the Round golf course last spring. (File photo City Journals)

ON THE MOVE

SSLC.GOV

SSL ‘ON THE MOVE’ HIGHLIGHTS

Apply Now! SSL Block Party Grant

Meet

Celebrating Afterschool Professionals Week ................. p. 5

Paw-some News at the Lions Park Dog Area p. 6

Best of South Salt Lake Awards 2024 p. 7

Cherie Wood, Mayor 801-464-6757

mayor@sslc.gov

City Offices

Monday - Friday

8 am to 5 pm

801-483-6000

220 East Morris Ave

SSL, UT 84115

Animal Service 801-483-6024

Building Permits 801-483-6063

Business Licensing 801-483-6063

Code Enforcement 801-464-6757

Fire Administration 801-483-6043

Justice Court 801-483-6072

Police Admin 801-412-3606

Promise 801-483-6057

Public Works 801-483-6045

Recreation 801-412-3217

Utility Billing 801-483-6074

Emergencies 911

Police/Fire Dispatch 801-840-4000

APRIL 2024

The Road to 100% Graduation: A Brighter Future for Our Youth and Families

Our annual State of the City is a chance to connect with you, our community, and share the strides we’ve made together over the past year and outline our key focus areas for the future. During this year’s address, I touched upon several important plans and projects we’re working towards in 2024, to keep our neighborhoods safe and beautiful, expand affordable housing options, and invest in Public Safety. As a city, we are also ramping up our efforts to support a new long-term educational achievement program, as education remains a cornerstone of our vision of investing in our future.

One of my top goals has always been to ensure our youth have the opportunities and tools that they need to succeed in life. But we also know our youth and their families face unique and difficult reallife challenges. Understanding the pivotal role of quality education, we founded the Promise SSL after-school program 11 years ago. Our initial commitment was to ensure every child has the chance to attend and graduate from a college, trade school, or complete vocational training. Recognizing that a high school diploma is a crucial step towards post-secondary success, we must identify and eliminate the barriers impeding our youth’s advancement.

A Closer Look at Cottonwood High School

• Cottonwood High serves 1,700 students, one-third residing in South Salt Lake, with diverse cultural backgrounds and over 40 languages spoken.

• 12% of students are refugees, 18% are English Language Learners, & almost 50% qualify for free or reduced-price lunch.

• In 2022, Cottonwood High reported a 77.91% graduation rate and an 18.14% dropout rate.

• Cottonwood High’s performance ranks below 95.7% of high schools in Utah.

The City of South Salt Lake, Millcreek City, Granite School District, and Promise Partnership Utah are embarking on a journey known as The Road to 100%. This collaborative effort is our shared commitment to empowering the youth and families in South Salt Lake and Millcreek.

The Road to 100% goals are to:

• Achieve a 100% High School Graduation completion rate for all our youth.

• Ensure that 100% of the basic needs are met for our youth and their families.

Recognizing the critical role that partnerships play in achieving these goals, we understand that it truly ‘takes a village’. The Road to 100% will better support our youth and families and help to eliminate barriers that may hinder their educational aspirations and pave the way for a brighter and more promising future. Together, we are committed to making a difference and ensuring success for all.

Mayor Cherie Wood

City News

Public Meetings

For more info: www.sslc.gov

City Council

Wed, April 4, 7 p.m.

Wed, April 18, 7 p.m.

Planning Commission

Thu, April 10, 7 p.m.

Thu, April 24, 7 p.m.

City Council Members

Find out more about who your City Council representative is by visiting sslc.gov.

LeAnne Huff, District 1 lhuff@sslc.gov

Corey Thomas, District 2 cthomas@sslc.gov

Sharla Bynum, District 3 sbynum@sslc.gov

Nick Mitchell, District 4 nmitchell@sslc.gov

Paul Sanchez, District 5 psanchez@sslc.gov

Natalie Pinkney, At-Large npinkney@sslc.gov

Clarissa Williams, At-Large cwilliams@sslc.gov

Apple and Google Pay for Xpress Bill Pay

SSL residents can pay their utility bill online through Xpress Bill Pay. For convenience, you can download a mobile app to manage and pay your utility bills each month, as well as set up autopay for peace of mind. Xpress Bill Pay recently added two new payment options for customer convenience: Apple Pay and Google Pay solutions. Have questions regarding your utility bill? Visit sslc.gov or contact the Finance Department at (801) 483-6000.

Check out our 2024 Event Guide for all the community events and activities taking place in South Salt Lake. You can view and download it at SSLC.gov.

South Salt Lake residents can apply for a block party mini-grant again this year. There will be seven total grants available for 2024, up to $500 each. Applications must be received before the end of June 2024, and block party events must take place before the end of October 2024. Plan ahead this year and submit your application as soon as possible. For full program details and application, visit SSLC.gov > Community > Block Party Grant

Public Safety

Introducing New SSLPD Deputy Chief Ryan Cram

On February 1, 2024, along with being appointed the new South Salt Lake Police Chief, Ryan Cram was appointed as our New Deputy Chief. With early beginnings in South Salt Lake, young Ryan and his family resided here, and he attended Lincoln Elementary School until the age of 11. Soon after starting his career in law enforcement, he began working for the SSLPD. Now serving with the SSLPD for 17 years, Ryan has taken on various assignments, including Patrol, the Traffic Unit, SWAT, and Investigations. Initially, he found his passion in teaching and helping fellow officers develop and grow. Over the years he has held the positions of Field Training Officer, and as an instructor for Firearms, Emergency Vehicle Operations, and on the SWAT team. His desire to mentor officers continued as he was promoted to Sergeant in 2014. As a Sergeant, he supervised a crew of patrol officers, oversaw the firearms training unit for the department, and supervised the Field Training Unit.

Deputy Chief Cram also became the supervisor for the SSLPD’s Special Victim’s Unit, which expanded his education in law enforcement and increased his passion and understanding of victim-centered services. In 2021, he was promoted to Lieutenant over the Community Resource Division. There he oversaw the operations of the Homeless Resource Unit, the Community Resource Unit, and Crime Analysts in the department. With the creation of the South Salt Lake Civilian Review Board (CRB), Ryan was designated as the liaison for the Board. During that time he worked closely with CRB members to establish how it would operate, conduct training, and facilitate department resources to support the CRB and its mission.

Over the years and in my own experience working with Ryan, I have been impressed by his high level of professionalism and professionalism in his interactions with our team and with the public. Being fully dedicated to serving our community and a willingness to take the lead, I am confident that Deputy Chief Ryan Cram will enhance our ability even further as the Police Department to serve and protect those who work, live, and visit in South Salt Lake.

Message from SSLPD Chief Danielle Croyle

Welcoming New SSLFD Deputy Chief Jared Christensen

We are thrilled to introduce our new Deputy Fire Chief, Jared Christensen, who brings with him a wealth of experience and a dynamic approach to leadership. With a career dedicated to firefighting and emergency response, Chief Christensen embodies the qualities of ambition, vision, and a true passion for serving our community.

Chief Christensen is not one to shy away from challenges. His ambitious nature has seen him rise through the ranks, constantly seeking new ways to improve and innovate within our fire department. As a visionary, Chief Christensen has a clear idea of where he wants our department operations to go, always looking ahead to anticipate the needs of our growing community.

In the face of adversity, Chief Christensen shines. Whether it’s developing new strategies for fire prevention or coordinating complex emergency responses, he is a master problem solver. His ability to think on his feet and find effective solutions in high-pressure situations is truly remarkable.

One of the most inspiring aspects of Chief Christensen’s leadership style is his dedication to motivating and educating our team. He understands that a strong department is built on the skills and morale of its members. He is always there to offer guidance, support, and a listening ear to our firefighters. His commitment to continuous learning ensures that our team is always at the top of their game.

But it’s not all serious with Chief Christensen. He brings a sense of fun and camaraderie to our department, fostering a positive work environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated. Whether it’s bringing our crews together or simply sharing a laugh with colleagues, he knows how to keep spirits high.

As we embark on this new chapter with Jared Christensen as our Deputy Fire Chief, we are confident that his leadership will propel us to new heights. Please join us in welcoming Chief Christensen, as we look forward to the exciting journey ahead under his guidance and expertise.

Message from SSLFD Chief Terry Addison

Coffee with a Cop

April 3, 9-10 a.m.

In-Person

Délice Bakery & Café 2747 S State Street

Business Watch

April 4, 5 p.m.

Johnstone Supply 2940 S 300 West, A

Neighborhood Watch

April 4, 7 p.m.

Go to sslc.gov for the virtual link

Civilian Review Board

Mon, April 8, 6:30 p.m.

The public is encouraged to attend in-person at City Hall in the Council Chamber, or through a virtual link at www.sslc.gov.

Volunteer at the Pamela Atkinson Resource Center

Want to get involved, donate, or find out more? Let’s point you toward TheRoadHome.org to volunteer!

Salt Lake County Senior Center EVENTS FOR APRIL 2024

Live Entertainment: Heart & Soul - Weds, April 3, 10:30 am

Ron Hadley - Friday, April 19, 10:30 am

Spring Special Buffet Meal & Live Entertainment by Heart & Soul Weds, April 3, 10:30 am

*Reservation required so please sign-up at the front desk for lunch.

Elderly Financial Fraud/Scams Presentation by Promise Co-Op

Friday, April 5, 10:30 am

Mini Book Club w/Jill: Weds, April 10, 10:30 am

Vital Aging: Monthly Wellness Discussion

Weds, April 17, 10:30 am

TAI CHI for Arthritis: Mon & Weds, Apr 8-June 3, 10:30 am

STEPPING ON: Building Confidence, Reducing Falls

Thurs, April 18 - May 30, 12:30 pm

Join this 7-week workshop to learn exercises and strategies to help prevent you from falling.

Mat Yoga on Weds at 2:30 pm

Chair Yoga on Fridays at 1:00 pm

Ukrainian Eggs: Mon, April 29, Tues, April 30, & Weds, May 1, 9:30a-12:30p

Limited spots are available! Reservation required!

Best of South Salt Lake 2024

In our nomination for the State of the City Best of Awards, Promise SSL calls out the individuals, educational leaders, and organizations that contribute to our afterschool program as well as to our community members in valuable ways. We hope you’ll read through these award winners and learn more about the amazing things that are being offered to those in our community. They are all truly remarkable! Discover all SSL’s Best of Award winners at sslc.gov.

Equity Champion: Jaynell Hollins “Ms. J”

Jaynell “Ms. J” Hollins, a Special Education Teacher at Granite Park Jr. High, embodies the school motto “Inspiring Students to Dream of College and Beyond”. She instills values of hard work and achieving dreams in her students, ensuring they feel welcome and confident to dream big. Ms. J’s impact goes beyond her classroom as she advises the Black Student Union, where students explore historically Black colleges and universities, engage with local politicians, and discover various career paths. Through leadership clubs, she provides opportunities for students to connect with community and state leaders, fostering realworld experiences that enrich their educational journeys.

Young Leader of the Year Award: Angel Cayetano

Angel Cayetano, a dedicated 6th-grade student at Granite Park Jr. High, is a shining light in the Promise SSL after-school programs. Known for his unwavering positive energy and eagerness to learn, Angel’s participation in various clubs like Lego Robotics and Sketch Comedy showcases his passion and commitment. He played a key role in establishing the News Club, where he excels both on and off camera, inspiring his peers with his confidence and presentation skills. Angel’s eagerness to share his knowledge with others exemplifies his compassionate leadership and contributions to the program and community.

Promise Partner of the Year Award: The Wellness Bus

The Wellness Bus is a mobile prevention program run by the University of Utah Health that offers free health screenings and education without the need for insurance or ID. Since June 2018, it has been providing vital services at Central Park Community Center weekly, including screenings, nutrition counseling, lifestyle coaching, and referrals in 240+ languages. This resource, staffed by health professionals and students, supports diverse residents in accessing essential care and referrals for medical, dental, and social services.

The Wellness Bus Thursdays, 9 AM - 1 PM

Central Park Community Center 2797 S 200 East www.healthcare.utah.edu

April 22-26, 2024, is Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week (APAW), a dedicated week to recognize, appreciate, and advocate for those who work with young people during out-of-school hours.

Research shows that skilled and knowledgeable program staff are the backbone of program quality and are key to desired positive youth outcomes. We hope everyone joins us April 22-26 in celebrating afterschool professionals and then continues to advocate for job quality in support of these essential professionals throughout the year.

Afterschool Professionals are skilled individuals who work with children and youth in diverse school and community-based settings to provide various positive developmental relationships and experiences during out-of-school hours. Thank you to our Promise South Salt Lake Afterschool Professionals!

Community Happenings

To learn more and register for Community Art Classes, visit SSLArts.org or call 801-483-6018. Create an account at sslc.gov and opt-in to receive our monthly SSL Arts Council E-Newsletter.

ART55+ Creative Arts for Seniors

Instructor Laura Sharp Wilson

Every Wednesday 10:00-11:30 AM

SSL Community Center

2531 S 400 East

FREE!

Art Classes for April

South Salt Lake Community Center

Promise SSL Co-Op Art Room

2530 S 500 East

Bad Dog Arts: Intro to Linocut

Instructor: Victoria Lyons

Wednesdays: April 3, 10, 17, 24

Time: 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm

Mindful Photo

Instructor: Danielle Waters

MTFA

Monday: April 22, 2024

Time: 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm

Zentangle Co-Op Club

Instructor: Linda Rios, CZT

Monday, April 29

Time: 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm

Best Art Advocate: Michelle Markay Nelson

Michelle Markay Nelson has been an advocate of healing and strength in South Salt Lake since 2020. As a licensed clinical social worker, Michelle’s journey began amidst the deepest grief following the loss of her son, Roan William McClain. In her pain, she found purpose by creating the Roan William McClain Foundation, also known as Roan Your Boat. Through this foundation, Michelle has planted seeds of healing in our community, starting with a tree-planting event at Fitts Park in 2021 to honor Roan and others lost to suicide.

Michelle’s passion for healing extends to her role as an Art Instructor for the South Salt Lake Arts Council, where she leads Kintsugi Healing Groups. Through the transformative power of Kintsugi which means in Japanese ‘Golden Joinery’ or ‘Repair’, Michelle guides individuals on a journey of strength and beauty after loss. Michelle’s dedication to healing and resilience in our community has touched hundreds of lives, making her a truly deserving recipient of this award.

Volunteer of the Year: Cameron Swensen of the CITY State

Let’s take a moment to introduce our behind-the-scenes volunteer, Cameron Swenson. Cameron is a rockstar who selflessly donates 3-6 hours a week to volunteer at the Animal Shelter, come rain or shine.

During her volunteer shifts, she takes an active role in assisting with behavioral assessments, taking adoption photos, and putting together social media descriptions for the many dogs that come through the shelter. It’s not just her time that she donates to our shelter animals,

Cameron also makes financial contributions to support them. When the shelter was bursting at the seams with dogs and we were in dire need of adoptions, she graciously sponsored our “Pet of the Week” program and paid for the adoption fees to incentivize would-be adopters. Even after leaving her volunteer shift, Cameron continues to support and help the Animal Shelter by networking at home with local and out-of-state rescue groups to move and place some of our animals where they will have a great chance at adoption. Cameron is well-loved and respected by everyone at the Shelter, animals and humans alike. Her dedication and commitment have made and continue to make a huge impact on our Shelter animals.

Best of South Salt Lake 2024

SSL Employee of the Year:

Eliza Ungricht

Eliza Ungricht started with South Salt Lake as a City Planner and is now the Deputy Director of Community and Economic Development. She is a consummate professional who excels in all aspects of her work.

Eliza was the recipient of our 2023 Rockstar of the Year city staff award, but we felt her high performance deserved a more significant call out as our Employee of the Year Award. “Her positivity makes our work environment enjoyable,” shared a team member. “She is always willing to help and communicate clearly to complete tasks.”

Eliza’s commitment to creating a better South Salt Lake through taking the lead with her team is truly inspiring and well deserving of SSL’s Employee of the Year award.

Best Lunch Spot: Pho 33

Our mouths watered when Pho 33 moved to South Salt Lake from Midvale in September 2022. It has quickly become a favorite among many residents, joining the ranks of all of their followers who have been frequenting the restaurant for many years. Pho 33 brings the authentic flavors of Vietnam to our community, Pho 33 stands out for its exceptional Pho (a traditional Vietnamese soup consisting of bone broth, rice noodles, and thinly sliced meat) that garnered high praise during a reputable social media Pho playoff event in 2023. Located conveniently in our Central Park neighborhood, this family-owned restaurant serves up perfectly balanced broth and tender, flavorful meat that keeps customers coming back for more. With several other menu offerings, including vegetarian and vegan options, Pho 33 is an exceptional lunch locale as it offers quick service, is tasty, affordable, and most importantly, going there is a great way to support our local businesses.

Best SSL Taco: Tacos Don Nico

500 East 3300 South Mon – Friday, 10 AM • Sat, 10 AM – 6 PM

Yolanda and Alejandro Prado opened Tacos Don Nico a year ago near the Historic Scott School Community Center, quickly becoming local favorites. Their taco truck venture was driven by a desire for independence through business ownership, inspired by Yolanda’s culinary talent. They offer classic Mexican fare like tacos, tamales, burritos, and quesadillas. The Prado Family have been active members of the South Salt Lake community for two decades and appreciate the area’s resources and family-friendly ambiance. Engaging in Promise SSL programs, their children have benefited from PAL boxing at Central Park and afterschool activities at our Historic Scott School.

Best Hidden Gem: Parker Theatre

3605 State Street • www.parkertheatre.org

Parker Theatre started in 1985 to provide live theater performances for the public. In 2011, they found a permanent home in South Salt Lake at the former Avalon Theatre. They operated as the Utah Children’s Theatre for most of their time here, but in 2018 they purchased the building next door and remodeled it into “The Studio” with a classroom and 99-seat theater to host their youth after school programs and summer camps. This opened up the old theater, which was transformed into the Parker Theatre mainstage that now hosts an outstanding bill of seasonal performances.

The Parker Theatre has a 78-year history of serving the South Salt Lake community with theater and cinema entertainment. It first opened in 1946 as the Apollo Theatre with 650 seats for patrons to enjoy live plays. In 1963, it changed owners and became Avalon Theatre, screening films, primarily second-run and classical, for 40 years.

Today, the building has never looked better! Michael Hohl and his team have poured a lot of love and resources into updating and maintaining this wonderful space. Parker Theatre seats 179 within the main floor and balconies and features a 1930s-style Soda Fountain where the on-site chef creates showthemed treats including house-made brownies, cookies, and handmade sodas.

of the CITY State

YOUTH

CITY COUNCIL

Congratulations to all our Best of South Salt Lake 2024 Award Winners!

LEGACY FAMILY

Marshall & Draper Families

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

Lillian Winn AGING WITH PRIDE

James Brown

PROMISE PARTNER OF THE YEAR

The Wellness Bus

EDUCATION LEADER OF THE YEAR

Principal Mike Douglas, Cottonwood High

EDUCATION PARTNER OF THE YEAR

Superintendent Dr. Richard Nye, Granite SD

EQUITY CHAMPION

Jaynell Hollins

YOUNG LEADER OF THE YEAR

Angel Cayetano

COUNCIL CHAMPION

Corey Thomas, District 2

EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR

Eliza Ungrich

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

Cameron Swenson TRAILBLAZER

Juan Arce-Larreta

BEST LOCAL ART ADVOCATE

Michelle Markay Nelson

BEST TACO

Tacos Don Nico

BEST LUNCH SPOT AWARD

Pho 33

BEST HIDDEN GEM

Parker Theatre

National Pet Day – Things to know before buying a pet

By Holly Curby | hello@hollycurby.com

Have you ever wondered how a pet can transform your home and heart? As National Pet Day approaches (April 11), it's the perfect time to reflect on the profound impact that pets have on our lives. However, beyond the obvious joy and companionship, pet ownership comes with a myriad of responsibilities that often go unnoticed until one becomes a pet parent. We're not just talking cuddles and cute Instagram moments; it's about the responsibility and enrichment that come with welcoming a furry, feathery or even finned friend into your life.

Deanne Shepherd, former director of Marketing and Communications of the Humane Society of Utah shares three things to consider when buying or adopting a pet.

1. Do your research. Consider what you’re looking for, what your interests are, what your activity level is, and make sure you find the right fit for both you and the animal. What animal fits best for your living conditions? What is the lifespan of the animal you are considering and is that time you are willing to invest in caring for the animal? What do your schedule and commitments look like? Do you have the time and money to care for the animal and its needs? Are there any restrictions on the type of animal you can have or limitations as to the number of pets you can have where you live? Don’t fall in love with a dog or cat because of the unique breed or look, but rather do your research on the animal ensuring you both are a perfect fit for each other, otherwise, the pet may tend to act out in behaviors that we don’t appreciate. This research can significantly influence the long-term happiness of both the pet and the owner.

2. Consider your options. If purchasing from a breeder make sure to visit the home and meet the parents. Check out the living conditions. Ask about warranties. Do they invest in the veterinary care and well-being of the animal? There are hundreds of thousands of animals in shelters across the country that are looking for a new home too. Adopting through a shelter can help rescue an animal—giving it a second chance at a new loving home. Often shelter animals have been spayed and neutered, vaccinated and even microchipped. Although it may be tempting, Shepherd cautions to never buy from a seller in a parking lot where you can’t see the conditions the animal has been raised. Among the many risks of such situations is inbreeding which can result in behavior or health problems. She also cautions to always ensure you’re working with a reputable source to avoid online pet scams.

3. Be prepared for time and costs. Animals function best when they have a routine such as being fed at the same time each day. Think through who will be the primary caretaker as well as what role your children (if applicable) will play in the responsibilities of caring for the pet. Remember there are many factors in caring for a pet such as cleaning up after the animal, and ensuring you have time to dedicate for a current pet to acclimate to having a new pet in the home. There are also many initial costs involved in getting a pet such as purchasing toys, a bed, a litter box and litter, a leash and collar, an ID tag, being spayed or neutered, vaccinations and pet-proofing your home. Ongoing costs to expect are vaccination boosters, food, treats and annual wellness checks as it’s important to establish a good baseline for health and behavior by having them checked out every year. Additional costs could include pet insurance, grooming, training, microchipping, boarding or home care when you travel, and emergency visits or treatment (however, again, consistent veterinary care can help with early detection and treatment of potential issues).

Training and acclimating a new pet can be a test of will, but the benefits of owning a pet can encourage patience and positive reinforcement. Forbes reported that owning an animal can increase opportunities to exercise, get outside and socialize, as well as decrease blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and

triglyceride levels as a result of regular play time and walks. Pets can even help manage loneliness and depression by giving companionship.

Owning a pet is a rewarding journey filled with learning and love. By preparing properly, educating yourself on best practices, and embracing the commitment it entails, you'll ensure that both you and your pet enjoy a fulfilling life together. Although the bond between a pet and its owner can be unique, if for any reason the conditions are not working for you or your pet, bring the pet to a local shelter so they can help find it another home. Let's honor National Pet Day by acknowledging

the depth of our relationships with our animal companions and striving to be the best pet parents we can be.

Want to learn more? Check out Season 2 Episode 10 on Holly’s Highlights where we’ll dive into the dietary needs of your pet, common household dangers that could pose risks, human foods that are toxic to animals, the life span of various animals, the pros and cons of pet insurance, positive training tips, how to treat allergies that may arise from owning a pet, and more. Holly’s Highlights podcast is available wherever you listen to podcasts such as Spotify, Pandora, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts, as well as on www.hollycurby.com. l

Humane Society of Utah adopted dog, George. (Photo courtesy of Christy Green)

Pet pig, Bacon, bought from a breeder. (Photo courtesy of Isaac Harding)

Gus is from a breeder, Cloeth was rehomed, and Pike was gifted. (Photo courtesy of Becky Harding)

Darcie, adopted off KSL classifieds website. (Photo courtesy of Mariyah Winks)

Women are driving economic opportunity in Utah

Ahigher percentage of Utahns are directly contributing to the growth and prosperity of our state than residents anywhere else in the nation. True to its motto of "industry," the Beehive State ranks first in labor force participation, with 69.3% of the working-age population employed or actively looking for a job, according to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

This figure reflects a multitude of factors, including Utah's young population, its ethos of hard work, and its success in pulling people back to the labor pool during the pandemic recovery. But zooming out, the most significant boost to Utah's labor market—and by extension, the economy —has unfolded over the past century.

In 1950, 51.7% of Utah's population participated in the labor market, according to the Census Bureau. By 1970, the participation rate jumped to 59.2% and by 2000 it was 69%, near today’s level.

What changed? From 1950 to 1970, the share of Utah women taking part in the workforce soared from 24.4% to 41.5%. By 1990, the state’s female labor force participation was double its post-World War II rate at 58.6%, and by the end of the century, 61% of working-age Utah women had joined the labor pool.

Demand for office and clerical workers in the early 20th century gave rise to women's increased participation in the labor market, according to economic historian Claudia Goldin.

Goldin, who received a 2023 Nobel Prize for her work uncovering key drivers of gender differences in the labor market, revealed how a “quiet revolution” in the economic role of women accelerated in the 1970s as expectations around careers and family began to change. Young women increasingly anticipated and prepared for future careers, seeking the education and training that would qualify them for more skilled positions.

The influx of women into the labor pool not only brought societal shifts, but it also improved the economy by increasing economic output, consumer spending, tax revenue, poverty reduction, and overall quality of life.

While the COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately impacted women in the workplace, women have also been driving the labor market’s post-pandemic recovery. Nationally, labor force participation among women of prime working age has returned to pre-pandemic levels.

The latest available Census data show that in 2022, 62.5% of Utah women 16 and older participated in the labor force, compared to 58.8% of women nationally, though they still participate at much lower rate than Utah men. Women make up 44.1% of workers and own 43.8% of business owners in the state.

A December 2023 report by the Utah Women and Leadership Project, authored by Robyn C. Blackburn, April Townsend and Susan R. Madsen, notes that while the majority of Utah women are in the workforce, they are

underrepresented in business leadership and STEM fields. Utah women are also much more likely to work part-time than their national counterparts.

The report cites access to childcare and cultural factors, and occupational segregation in lower-paying industries as factors influencing Utah women’s participation in the labor force.

Women have been key drivers of Utah’s economic growth—among the best in the nation by almost every metric. As more women enter and remain in the workforce, their talents, perspectives and skills will continue to propel innovation, productivity and economic growth.

Robert Spendlove is chief economist for Zions Bank in Salt Lake City. l

Teen fashion show helps cultivate confidence in style

By Jesse M. Gonzalez | j.gonzalez@mycityjournals.com

On March 1, teens of Promise South Salt Lake Best Buy Teen Tech Center after-school program were able to participate in and host the second annual Teen Tech Fashion Show. The event took place at the South Salt Lake Community Center auditorium in which teens (13-19 years old) were able to work with professional stylists, models, designers and photographers to become better acquainted with the fashion industry and to not only feel more confident on the runway, but to build confidence in their dayto-day lives.

“It was all about youth expression, identity development, and giving students a creative way to express themselves through clothes, making clothes, styling them, walking in it, being photographed, photographing. It was really a dope experience to be a part of and really consider how essential the arts are for young people to develop their identity and figure out how they want to express themselves in this world,” said Daud Mumin, a young stylist and model who has been involved in the industry for the last six years, since he was a teen himself.

It was Mumin’s first time working with Promise South Salt Lake, and it was an experience he hopes to continue every year.

“It was a really empowering experience, honestly. Something I was reflecting on was there weren’t spaces for me to do things like that when I was growing up. I think this program is doing really essential work,” Mumin said.

Over a three-day span leading up to the fashion show, the teens were given ample room and guidance from the professionals to craft their own clothing choices, with access to clothing customization, styling accessories, superb studio equipment, and other additional materials for craft and embellishment.

Another model, Naina Maile, assisted the teens, introducing them to the tools of the trade. “A lot of the students customized different pieces and everything they made was super cool. They had a lot of fun. We did a little workshop before the fashion show where we just went over how to walk and then posing and stuff. They had an opportunity to kind of practice a studio shoot,” said Maile, who has been modeling since 2022.

Maile is also a former Promise South Salt Lake employee, having left the organization in August 2023 to pursue other interests, one of them including teaching, which made her a valuable asset in guiding the youth during the preparation and the day of the fashion show.

“They were really excited about the whole thing. I was really impressed with what they were able to make on their own and customize stuff,” Maile said.

“It was…it started off a little quiet, as it does with awkward teenagers, but I was

happy that it was very much community based. It was a no-brainer for me to want to be helping out, especially in fashion because that is what I do,” said Nic Baca, a Salt Lake City model and native. “It was nice to just be in a community space to teach people about clothes and self-expression in fashion than just like something to wear, you know?

“Part of my role was just in modeling, so like fashion, the walk, and also shooting; helping them position their body, like what to do, how to think, help them to get

The Teen Tech Center, sponsored by Best Buy and Promise SSL and funded by the city, finishes off with a successful second annual fashion show. (Jesse M. Gonzalez/City Journals)

into the mindset of modeling,” Baca said.

“We all don’t like to be perceived by people as conscious humans, we feel like we’re being judged or criticized or something and

it’s really uncomfortable. That’s what my role was—with another model friend—to get them comfortable with people staring at them, like you want people to stare at you, I

A second portion of the walk for the audience. (Jesse M. Gonzalez/City Journals)

Victoria Hills, a photographer, assisted in the production of the Teen Tech Fashion Show. (Photo courtesy of Victoria Hills)

know it seems really counterproductive.”

In getting the teens more comfortable with being in front of cameras and crowds, local photographer Victoria Hills worked with the kids to ensure an exciting and memorable photographic experience.

“I helped with the preliminary planning of the photography part of it—so kind of advised on what kind of backdrop to get, what kind of lighting equipment, maybe some other lenses that they could buy and then I brought a backdrop roll myself. Then I put together a presentation—it was definitely more information than they were looking for at the time,” Hills said.

“There were about 30 kids that were involved in it, so I just kind of talked to them about the basics of photography and some of the meaning behind photography as an artist and how you need to have intention in the shots you are taking,” Hills said.

With Hills’ help, the fashion fueled teens built up their confidence, and within time, were all eager to get in front of the camera and display their own unique style.

“Adults can get stuck in fashion. When we’re kids it’s so much more playful. Self-expression is a very huge part of it. The after-school program is helping uplift them and just support them. A lot of them are very shy, and I think that really helped them come out of their shells,” Baca said.

Everyone on the team was impressed with the growth and poised certitude that the kids developed, as they took the stage at South Salt Lake’s community center.

“It was really heartfelt, and I think that

it was necessary, especially for communities of color, for poor communities, for disabled youth. It’s really important that they have spaces in which they can articulate and understand the world around them, and I think that the [Promise Teen Tech] center really helping cultivate that was really special to see,” Mumin said.

“I consider myself an introvert too. Beginning to work with the kids I was also feeling shy about the experience, but I got to talk to them more and understand them more. I felt empowered to be able to encourage them. And to find that nerve and that boldness that is really special about young people and to really cultivate that as artists. I really felt that I learned a lot myself,” Mumin said.

Promise South Salt Lake continues to put kids first with their after-school programs.

“It’s a great organization to support if you’re looking to support a nonprofit organization. If you have a skill, they love to host workshops and to share your skills with those teens and just kind of show them what’s out there and the possibilities for what they can do with their life. I think it’s something everyone should try out once in a while,” Hills said.

“I really hope that the program gets more support, gets more funding, more resources so that it can continue doing this essential work for young people in the Salt Lake area,” Mumin said. “That’s definitely what I hope to get more involved in.” l

With new head coaches, Cottonwood

baseball, boys volleyball got underway

By Brian Shaw | b.shaw@mycityjournals.com

Several seasons after Jason Crawford left for Salt Lake Community College’s coaching staff and handed the Cottonwood head baseball coaching position to Chris Shelton, it was Shelton who left for SLCC as well this past summer.

So, Cottonwood High administration conducted a statewide coaching search for its next candidate, said Greg Southwick, Cottonwood’s athletic director.

“We think we’ve hit this one [hire] out of the park,” said Southwick, borrowing a baseball adage.

They settled on Gavin Duckworth, who prepped at Brighton and played at Southern Utah University, for the job.

According to Southwick, Duckworth had a big job ahead of him to get Cottonwood’s legendary baseball field up to speed and direct the Colts back to where the program used to be under Crawford, who had guided the Colts to several state titles.

But, Duckworth’s first duty was to get kids interested in playing some fall baseball which was a hit and brought out a lot of kids who hadn’t been as interested in playing baseball at Cottonwood.

His second aim was to start doing even more fundraising than before to bring the program’s facilities up to the industry standard.

Third was to engage in an offseason training program and that was a success as well according to Southwick who said he’s already pleased with the progress he’s seen going into the season.

“He had a big job ahead of him to get our facilities and all the other details back up to where it should be,” Southwick said.

So far it’s been good for Cottonwood [42, 1-1] on the field as well; the Colts stand at 4-2 overall as the preseason rolls on.

Although nobody has hit a home run for the Colts, junior Ladanian Gutierrez has hit seven RBI to lead Cottonwood, while senior Robbie Jensen has three. The 6-foot-3 inch Jensen is also one of Cottonwood’s aces on the mound; he carries a 1-0 record and has 15

strikeouts thus far.

Junior Isaiah Cosby also has hit three RBI and has the Colts only triple of the season. To lack heavy hitters is nothing new at Cottonwood; the Colts have always won their games by manufacturing runs—sacrifice flys, sac bunts and the like.

Like Jensen, senior Austin Carver does double duty for the Colts; in the field he’s a shortstop and is Cottonwood’s No. 2 pitcher, with a 1-0 record and 13 strikeouts under his belt.

Junior Brighton Young has also hit a RBI for Cottonwood and has a 1-0 record as a pitcher, with four strikeouts to his credit.

Juniors Angel Mavarez-Gonzalez and Dom Fuchuck each have knocked in a run for Cottonwood as well.

Cottonwood launches boys volleyball team for the first time

According to Southwick, he had to talk Jean Sutterfield into being the first boys volleyball head coach.

“It didn’t happen right away,” joked Southwick.

But, Sutterfield accepted eventually. And it looks like Southwick’s gut told him right.

In the first year that the Utah High School Activities Athletics Association [UHSAA] has actually sanctioned boys volleyball as a high school sport, the Colts boys volleyball team is off to a hot start.

Cottonwood [4-1, 4-0 Region 10] opened the season absorbing a rather rough welcome to boys volleyball, losing in straight sets at Cedar Valley, 15-25, 9-25 and 17-25 on March 6.

Since that point, however, the Colts have been on a tear, galloping over rivals Hillcrest three sets to one in a victory, over Stansbury in three straight sets, over Park City in a 3-1 romp and another 3-1 win at Tooele.

Although it’s still early in the season, and Cottonwood still has 10 more games to play before the state tournament, a 4-1 record is a good early indicator. l

The teen models commit to one final walk together, showcasing their individual style. (Jesse M. Gonzalez/ City Journals)

Colts fall in second round after second consecutive region title

By Brian Shaw | b.shaw@mycityjournals.com

Cottonwood High junior Avea Van der Beek grabbed her teammate, sophomore Carley Caton, in the painted area to reassure her after Caton had been fouled hard late in the 4A second round by a Desert Hills player.

Moments later, Van der Beek calmly walked up to the foul line in the fourth quarter of this do-or-die game at Cottonwood Feb. 22, and swished a free throw. It tied the ballgame at 48-48 with :08.4 to play.

The leading scorer for the Colts, Van der Beek has been through the ringer the past two months for reasons many are familiar with.

Nobody needs to get into those reasons but they’re there—same as the law enforcement agencies providing extra armed security at all four entry points to Cottonwood High’s gymnasium.

But, people either have character or they don’t; they can either step up during arguably the most stressful situation any student in high school could’ve ever dreamed of having and let that do the talking rather than other things.

That’s what the Colts did and so did Van der Beek, who never asked for any of this noise. Though the scoreboard will say Cottonwood lost 48-49 to Desert Hills and that the No. 4 seed was upset by No. 13 it wasn’t like that at all.

To her credit, head coach Teresa Soracco didn’t let her words do any of the talking leading up to the 4A state tournament—she would’ve been well within her right to because it interrupted a great season for Cottonwood.

But the Colts, who earned a share of the Region 10 title with Jordan, wouldn’t go down without a momentous battle inside their own gym. After the fact, Coach Soracco had some time to reflect on a great year for her Colts.

“We had an incredibly successful season this year, marking a historic milestone as back-to-back region champions for the first time in our school’s history,” Soracco said. “This achievement speaks volumes about

the dedication and talent of our team.”

They trailed 5-11 after one quarter— but fought back, scoring 17 second quarter points to keep their deficit at six points, 2228.

In the third quarter, Van der Beek began finding her range, knocking down two key jumpers. Her teammate, senior Alivia Hutton was already doing all that the fiery guard could to keep the Colts in the fight—her game-high 18 points that led Cottonwood attested to that resolve and got the Colts within four to end the third, 35-39.

Halfway into the fourth quarter, the Colts created several turnovers. When the

visitors tried to work the ball into the paint it was the smallest player on the court in senior Ciel Budge who slapped it out of bounds under the Desert Hills basket.

A miss from the visitors led to a three-pointer from Hutton that tied the score at 46-46. It marked the first time since the outset of this game that the Colts had been even with Desert Hills.

Cottonwood forced another turnover with 1:23 to go when junior Ashlyn Tripp reached into the paint and grabbed a loose ball, firing it ahead to Hutton.

it all together, honestly. In this new media age, anything sensational is immediately broadcast to the world.

But Van der Beek spun the ball back to herself and shot—swish. The second shot missed after Van der Beek bounced the ball four times, four for the games she missed on the way to the state tournament, four for the weeks this media circus went on and four for the number of police and Cottonwood staff stationed at each of the gym’s exits, just in case.

With less than a minute remaining in Cottonwood’s season, Hutton dared venture among the tallest of Desert Hills’ trees, one knee bandaged and taped from an earlier injury she suffered, as she drove the lane.

Hutton lost the handle on the ball but immediately wrestled it from one of the Desert Hills giants and tipped it to her teammate Caton as Cottonwood began its comeback.

Van der Beek scored nine points for a Colts team that also got eight [and nine rebounds] from Caton, six points from Tripp, three from Ciel [and five assists] and two points from Kya Budge, as well as two rebounds and two steals from Bella Morris.

The game tied 48-48, you could say with 8.4 seconds to go that Van der Beek missed one of two foul shots.

But you’d be wrong if you did.

Caton was fouled on the play and sank one of two free throws to give the Colts their first lead of the game. On the other end, Desert Hills drove the lane and got fouled. The visitors made two to retake the lead, 47-48.

Fouled again, this time in the act of shooting after a mad scramble for the ball under Desert Hills’ basket, Van der Beek stepped to the foul line as the place went crazy. She took a deep breath and sighed.

You have to wonder how the junior kept

“While the season might not have ended exactly as we envisioned, the girls never wavered in their resolve and fought until the very end,” said Soracco, who received an award as the best coach in Region 10 and had four players [Ciel Budge, Van Der Beek, Caton and Hutton] named to the All-Region 10 Team. “What truly stood out was their passion for improvement and their teamwork. It was an absolute pleasure to coach such a dedicated and spirited group.” l

The Colts earned the No. 4 seed in the state tournament after winning the Region 10 title. (Photo courtesy Teresa Soracco)

I ’m not sure what Utah legislators think happens in women’s restrooms, based on the ridiculous bathroom bill that was recently passed. Do they imagine we walk into a restroom, disrobe, dance around drinking martinis and chat like teenagers in a TV sitcom?

Otherwise, I can’t imagine why our “leaders” thought banning trans women from public bathrooms would protect my privacy. If there was a creepy man dressed as Mrs. Doubtfire, accosting women in the restroom, yes, that would be terrible. And it’s already illegal.

But I’m letting the legislators in on a little secret. Here’s what happens in a public restroom. I walk to the bathroom and wait in line (because there’s always a line). I make no eye contact with the women around me. When a stall is available, I scurry into it, do my business as quietly as possible and rush to wash my hands. I glance in the mirror to make sure there’s no popcorn stuck to my face, and I leave.

I wouldn’t know if there was a trans woman in the bathroom with me because (and hear me out) trans women are women. Legislators, you continue to create fear and disconnection. Stop it.

This unenforceable law could mean

Circling the drain

we must carry a small copy of our birth certificate, next to the mini-Bible and a pocket-sized copy of the Constitution we’re already toting around. But… scanning my scriptures…I see one that reads, “Love thy neighbor.” Interesting. I don’t see an asterisk that explains *Unless your neighbor has a lifestyle of which you don’t approve.

Speaking of protecting privacy, as the legislative session wrapped up last month, our “leaders” passed a law that blocks access to the daily calendar of elected officials. (I think they confuse “privacy” with “secrecy.”)

Imagine you hire an employee and tell them you’ll be tracking their work, checking their calendars and watching their emails. You want to see how they spend their time, who they hang with and if they’re misbehaving.

Then imagine that employee said

you had no right to do any of that. That it’s none of your damn business. Well, you’d fire that employee in a heartbeat. Elected officials work for the people and we deserve to know what they do.

The Freedom of Information Act grants access to government records so the media and the public can see how the sausage is made. But Utah legislators continue to pass bills making government less transparent. It’s like painting over a window, one thin coat at a time.

In 2011, Utah’s governor and legislators were presented with the Black Hole Award by the national chapter of

the Society of Professional Journalists because of a bill they passed (HB477) limiting access to government records. Five years later, Attorney General Sean Reyes received the same award from the Utah chapter.

Sensing a theme?

Overall, the legislators passed nearly 600 bills this year, including one that eliminates Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs at universities and some government entities. That’s nice. As if Utah wasn’t white, wealthy, male and straight enough already.

And through a law signed by Gov. Spencer Cox, teachers are now encouraged to bring guns to school because how do we address a gun control problem in this country? More guns!

For a state that declares it’s against big government control, a lot of bills passed this year seem glaringly hypocritical.

As the year goes along, I’m sure we’ll hear more from our “leaders” about book bans, school vouchers, revised history curriculum, church-protected abusers and the benefits of coal. Legislators seem just as clueless about those things as they are about women’s bathrooms.