Former Wolverine becomes soccer legend at Snow College
By Greg James | g.james@mycityjournals.com
Hunter High graduate Olivia Harding received national recognition after having one of the best statistical seasons in Snow College’s brief nine-year women's soccer history. Harding became a Badger legend leaving a mark in the school’s record books.
“I loved my time at Snow College,” Harding said. “I played a year before my mission. Coming back was interesting. I had a new coach and new teammates. I grew to love it more and more.”
Following her team's successful season Harding was named the Scenic West Athletic Conference Player of the Year. She was also named second team NJCAA All-American. She led the Badgers with 18 goals and eight assists and helped the team land in the conference championship game for the ninth time.
“It felt so crazy to see my name on the list for those awards. Knowing what hard work I had done. It felt good to have my efforts acknowledged and recognized,” she said.
Harding began her soccer career at 5 years old on the fields at Hunter Park and eventually starred at Hunter High School. Her senior year she scored five goals for the Wolverines as they finished 7-7. She chose to continue her soccer career at Snow College.
“I had a fantastic coach and teammates at Snow. That was such a factor in my having such a good season. I knew I was depended on and trusted by my teammates and coach,” Harding said.
Snow head coach Brock Ogami took over the program when Harding was away from the team on a mission for The Church of
Hunter High graduate Olivia Harding was named the Scenic West Athletic Conference player of the year. She logged one of the best seasons in Snow College history this past year. (Photo courtesy of Snow College Athletics)
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When you need emergency care fast, the closest emergency room is a smart thing to know. You never know the level of care you’ll need when an emergency happens and choosing the right ER can make all the difference. And a hospital ER comes with the confidence of additional services right on-site. Find emergency care close to you at mountain.commonspirit.org.
Roots High School grows character as well as farmyard memories
Roots High School in West Valley uses classroom lessons and farmyard experiences to help students develop character and feel loved and appreciated.
By Tom Haraldsen t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com
There’s an educational jewel in West Valley City, a small high school tucked away in a neighborhood near radio towers and an industrial park. Its student body is small, slightly over 200 in number, and its focus is to help each of these young people achieve all they can with the fruits (and vegetables and farm animals) of their labors.
Roots High School was founded in 2015 by Tyler Bastian, a former documentary film maker who turned his career toward educating and motivating youth. He said as a filmmaker, “I was seeing a real lack of character and challenges with anger management in teens, just something missing in those social soft skills.” So he quit making films and found a location to open Roots.
The first few years were challenging for Bastian and his team. His enrollment was about 200 students, like today (it’s capped at 220, with a waiting list of between 40 and 50), and he first thought Roots would be “an entrepreneurial school, teaching students skills through private education.” He shifted toward teaching character development instead.
“I wondered how I could create an environment where there’s authentic opportunities to learn and to build character,” he said. “What better way to do that than with a farm? That’s one reason why we put it here in West Valley–the space worked for our 6-acre farm–and we love West Valley.”
It’s a Utah charter school, but not part of any other school district. It receives some state and federal funding, but depends on
A yellow stop light and the numbers 243 displayed on the school’s walls reference a message shared by the public TV program “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” that they are all loved. (Tom Haraldsen/ City Journals)
grants and other donations to raise the additional funds it needs to survive–about $700,000 a year.
“We want to keep the student count low, because we want to serve kids and maintain our ability to do that,” Bastian said. “We want everybody to know everyone else and help develop leaders. So we really treat Roots more like a nonprofit–we’re providing a lot of different services.”
Every student gets free lunch–no questions asked–and Roots doesn’t take any federal funding for that. The school buys every student a TRAX pass to be sure they can get to school. There’s a TRAX station about two blocks away. Student-to-teacher ratio is 7 to 1, making it easy for connection with adults. A lot of students come from traumatic situations, Bastian said. And on every wall, you
can find the numbers “243” written or painted.
“When we first started Roots we were averaging six to seven suicide attempts per school year,” Bastian recalled. “I went into that summer trying to figure how to deal with that. That’s when a documentary came out about Fred Rogers (“Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood”)—he was always an important part of my life growing up, and he always had the number 143 on his sets. He said it stood for three words: 1. I, 2. LOVE, 3. YOU.” So that summer, we spray painted 243 everywhere–meaning “2-WE 4-LOVE 3-YOU.” We told the kids, ‘when you’re feeling down, just look up and you’ll see that you’re loved.’ We’ve only had two suicide attempts over the past two and a half years. It sounds weird, but it sounds so simple, and it made all the difference. When you focus on making sure every kid feels seen, they feel loved and they know that they belong. They can go to an adult and talk to an adult–and oftentimes for whatever reason, that person won’t be a parent but an
adult at their school.”
Roots does have farm classes, since it operates a 6-acre farm adjacent to the school that has hosted Spring and Fall Festivals in the past. The farm has an assortment of both large and small animals, as well plants and trees for fruits and vegetables. Students do chores on the farm, but the school also has classes in math, science, English and the arts. A lot of students come in as 10th or 11th graders, so Roots helps them with school credit recovery. At least five former students have returned as part of the team and other success stories of graduates abound.
“A lot of parents bring their kids here because they’re worried their kid is going to fall through the cracks socially and emotionally,” Bastian said. “Some were bullies, some were bullied, and some were running from something else. They come here and they all get along. When kids come here, it feels healthy, it feels like things are growing.”
Literally and figuratively. l
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The school’s 6.5-acre farm gives students a chance to work with animals and learn agricultural skills.
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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.
Navajo Code Talkers to get their place of honor at Utah Veterans Memorial
Statue in West Valley City will depict the Native Americans who helped America defeat Japan in World War II.
By Darrell Kirby d.kirby@mycityjournals.com
Long after they served their role in helping the United States defeat Japan in World War II, they received their due credit. They are the Navajo Code Talkers.
And they will further receive recognition with the placement of a statue at the Utah Veterans Memorial in West Valley City.
The life-size figure will depict one of the actual Navajo Code Talkers at the memorial south of the Utah Cultural Celebration Center on the city’s east side.
“It’s a big bronze statue,” said city councilmember Will Whetstone, who is also a veteran. “It’s really to recognize the contributions that the Native Americans made in military history.”
“I don’t know that the Native Americans received the attention that they deserved for their role in World War II. It’s an amazing thing that they did for the country,” he added.
Whetstone said the addition of the statue and expansion will bring even more meaning to the memorial.
The sculpture will feature two Navajo soldiersone talking on a radio and the other defending him from behind as he communicates on the device.
Whetstone said discussions about a Navajo Code Talker statue at the memorial started a little before he began serving on the city council in 2022 and the effort has gained momentum since. The statue is already mostly sculpted with only bronzing left to do. It is hoped the statue can be placed at the memorial by this summer.
The statue is made by Stan Watts, founder and owner of Atlas Bronze Casting in Kearns. Watts is a renowned sculptor who for 40 years has created bronze figures depicting some of the key people and events in American history. To him, the statue honors not just the Code Talkers, but all Native Americans who fought for or otherwise served the U.S. during World War II, especially since more Native Americans enlisted voluntarily in the armed forces during the war than any other group of people. “They joined the military to protect their land,” Watts said, meaning that fighting for America was also defending their native lands and vice versa. Watts, 64, feels his creation of the statue is being guided by something higher than himself. “It’s not me doing this, it’s the Navajo Nation doing this to honor the good people (of the tribe).”
The Navajo Code Talkers consisted
of 29 U.S. Marines from the Navajo Nation who significantly aided the war effort against the Japanese from 1942 to 1945 by using their native language to transmit secret messages and military codes in a way that the enemy forces could never decipher.
The code talker program and its participants were kept secret until 1968 when they were declassified by the military. Recognition of the code talkers was slow but in 2001, they were awarded Congressional Gold Medals for their achievements and contributions to American history.
One of the code talkers with local ties was Harry James, a West Valley City resident who died last year at the age of 88. Another was Allen Dale June. He lived for a time in West Valley City and passed away in 2010. He was 91.
Meanwhile, planning is underway for phase 2 of the veterans memorial with the construction of an adjacent park on about three-fourths of an acre. It will feature additional memorials, including one in remembrance of World War II, statues, and an obelisk–a tall, narrow, tapered four-sided monument. There will also be a picnic area, water feature and tree representations of the six branches of the military. Salt Lake County’s Tourism, Recreation, Cultural, and Convention tax will provide about $900,000 for the project. West Valley City will match it with $600,000 of its own funds. “It’s important for us to continue our fundraising to honor all the wars,” said Jake Arslanian, the city’s director of facilities and construction management.
The Utah Veterans Memorial opened on November 11, 2021 following six months of construction and about $1.3 million in business and individual donations to make it possible. Its 75-foot-long memorial wall contains the names of some 4,800 Utahns who made the ultimate sacrifice in conflicts from World War I to the war on terrorism that started in the 1990s and included military actions in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Whetstone said the addition of the statue and expansion will bring even more meaning to the memorial.
“It’s really a sacred place for family and friends to go there and reflect on the service of their loved ones,” he said. “I hope generations to come can go there and learn about the costs of freedom.
“It is a very sacred place and not just a monument for us to go and see.” l
Stan Watts, a longtime local sculptor and artist, is in the final stages of creating a statue honoring the Navajo Code Talkers of World War II. It will be bronzed and placed at the Utah Veterans Memorial in West Valley City later this year. (Photo courtesy Atlas Bronze Casting/Stan Watts)
The Utah Veterans Memorial in West Valley City opened in 2021 and is a place of remembrance and reflection of Utahns who died for America in wars and other conflicts spanning World War I to the present. (Darrell Kirby/City Journals)
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He admits he did not know much about Harding before she returned home.
“I talked with her dad. I wanted to wait to see what she had, but right away when she stepped on the field I could see that she would help our team,” Ogami said. “She is an unbelievable leader and incredible athlete. She has great instincts and has a knack for the goal. She is a ruthless finisher and she never stops.”
In practice or games Harding gave it her all every minute.
“She quickly earned the respect of her teammates. She is hands down the best player in the conference,” Ogami said. “Her success helps us to show that we can bring players here and help them move on to the four-year schools. Incoming players need to be ready because we have a great future at Snow. I am excited at what we have to offer.”
The people at school made the difference for Harding.
“I had the best friends and teammates that I could have asked for. We came up with the most ridiculous ways to keep ourselves entertained and I loved it. I spent quality time with people I cared about so much it made it such a valuable experience,” Harding said. Her 18 goal season is second all-time at
the school. Skye Kennedy tallied 26 in the 2022 season. Harding finished her career fifth in career goals with 21 and second in career points with 54.
“Having the ability to keep playing the sport I love is such a blessing. It has been very rewarding,” she said.
She will continue her career at the University of Louisiana. She is finishing her undergraduate work and plans to study exercise science to become a physical therapist.
“In my sports career I saw athletes from West Valley transfer to other schools to try to achieve their dreams, but at the end of the day if you want something bad enough you can get it. It is important for kids to know that if they do everything they can it will work out. I feel like the luckiest girl in the world,” Harding said. “My family and friends have been my biggest fans. I can’t explain how much that means to me.” l
Granite unified basketball teams foster friendship and fun on the court
lorsville squared up against Olympus.
By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com
For basketball enthusiasts, it’s an ideal setting. At any moment, two competitive games are taking place on one of three courts.
But these aren’t just any high school games.
These are unified basketball teams, where students with and without intellectual disabilities play side by side. This approach, based on the belief that practicing and playing together encourages friendship and understanding, is advocated by Boston Iacobazzi, the Special Olympics Utah college-growth coordinator for unified champion schools.
The program has gained significant popularity in recent years, now with more than 200 high school coed unified basketball teams. Districts like Granite have supported the creation of tournaments, giving students more opportunities to play.
Cottonwood High player Nico Steven Gagliarei Campos had just finished his game and was watching a match between Cyprus and Skyline high schools. On another courts, Tay-
“I love playing basketball and spending time with my teammates,” he said. “I enjoy sharing the ball and giving high-fives. My teammates and I support each other, and we always show respect. Sportsmanship is about the game of basketball and connecting with everyone.”
The sophomore learned the game from his dad and uncle.
“I love the game so much that I practice for two or three hours every single day, even though our team practices 30 minutes every other day. I focus on dribbling, rebounding, boxing out opponents and shooting around,” he said. “I’m always ready for a game.”
His teammate, Cottonwood sophomore Kennedi Hazzard, values the relationships built through basketball.
“I love helping others and meeting new people,” she said. “Basketball feels like a family. You make so many friends, and it’s so much fun. You get to hang out with them all day.”
Granger head football coach Pete Smolin was in another gym, cheering for the players.
“Most of these students are in unified PE; that is an awesome class,” he said. “We’ve been practicing basketball in the winter, soccer in the fall and track in the spring to prepare them for the unified sports seasons. brought six of my football players to join 22 unified kids on two teams. It’s a powerful experience to see people of all abilities working together.”
Through the unified model, Smolin believes everyone benefits, learning from one another.
“In our football program, we focus a lot on character and leadership development, and we also do a lot of community service, like this, about 100 hours every year. It helps develop the entire student-athlete,” he added.
Granger junior Ifo Pili, one of the football players, values his time on the court.
“This is a really great experience, and I’ve learned to have a lot of patience,” he said. “These guys are always upbeat, always have a smile on their faces. They have selfless joy, no matter the circumstances. We helped them learn the basic skills, but for them, it’s about enjoying the game and being part of a team that represents our school.”
Watching his school play Hunter High, Kearns High senior Mario Rivera admits he was initially hesitant about participating.
“At first, I was scared. I didn’t know how to help or teach these kids, or what to expect,” he said. “But once I came, I realized they’re just like me and everyone else. I just needed to talk to them and get to know them. I’ve helped in our unified PE class and as a peer tutor, and I have joined them during lunch. I give them high-fives in the hallways. Unified sports is a
perfect fit because I love sports and enjoy working with kids. Seeing them smile and become friends is the best.”
Kearns High’s Special Education teacher Natalie Nelson has witnessed the friendships which have blossomed through the unified PE class and sports programs.
“It’s been a meaningful experience for all the kids, both with and without special needs,” she said. “They’re learning how to interact with each other, and those friendships often extend outside the classroom, with kids socializing in the hallways or eating lunch together. For parents, it’s an incredible experience to watch their kids participate in sports for the first time. There’s so much pride when they hear the crowd cheering for their child. It’s brought friendships, teamwork, self-pride, skill development, acceptance—so many positive outcomes.”
For Kearns junior Noah Williams, the boost in confidence is clear.
“I’ve made 40 baskets,” he said. “I like winning.”
Unified teams from the Granite School District will compete in the regional tournament the week of March 10, with the state unified basketball tournament set for March 26 at the Delta Center. l
Squatters Corner Pub on Constitution Boulevard
Since Squatters Pub Brewery opened in downtown Salt Lake City in 1989, it’s become the place locals go to for award-winning beers and delicious menu items. Now, Squatters Corner Pub opened its doors to a new location at Valley Fair Mall in West Valley in January 2025.
Rick Seven has worked with Salt Lake Brewing Co., the parent company of Squatters Corner Pub, for almost three years, serving as the brand manager. He’s excited about the restaurant’s expansion and invites the community to come in and try something new.
What does Squatters Corner Pub provide?
Squatters Corner Pub Valley Fair will be serving the same delicious menu of traditional and diverse pub favorites the original Squatters is known for, as well as craft cocktails made with liquor from several Utah distilleries. And, of course, they will be serving award-winning locally brewed beer from Salt Lake Brewing Co. Brewery and Top of Main Brewery.
Squatters Corner Pub opens at 11:30 a.m. every weekday for lunch and dinner. On weekends they open at 9:00 a.m. for breakfast.
What sets Squatters apart from your competitors?
Squatters was the rst Brew Pub in Salt Lake County and its agship restaurant continually wins Best Brew Pub in local competitions. Families are
welcome to dine with us and we can seat large groups. If you like the atmosphere of a brew pub, delicious pub fare and good beer and drinks, Squatters would be the place to dine.
What is your favorite drink or menu item?
It’s hard to choose from the wide selection of locally-brewed beers. The Stumbling Missionary, a delicious cocktail, is a tropical and fruity drink with Brigham’s Spiced Rum, Sugar House Silver Rum, Peach Liqueur, pineapple, orange and lime juice, and Angostura Bitters.
For an appetizer, the Spinach Artichoke Dip is a popular choice. My favorite meals would be either the Great American Bison Burger, the Cobb Salad, the Thai Yellow Curry. And you can’t go wrong with any one of Squatters’ delicious, mouth-watering pizzas.
Are you currently running any specials?
Squatters has a Pizza Happy Hour, with $9 pizzas from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day.
What is your best advice for someone who’s never been to Squatters?
Come on in and enjoy some food and drink in our casual dining atmosphere. It’s a great place to go with friends and family, and a wonderful pub to bring people who are visiting from out of town. We have drinks and food you won’t nd anywhere else.
Squatters Corner Pub
EV chargers up and buzzing at Maverik Center
By Darrell Kirby d.kirby@mycityjournals.com
Electric vehicle chargers are now up and charging at the Maverik Center in West Valley City. Ten “fast” chargers are located there plus four each at the Family Fitness Center, Utah Cultural Celebration Center, The Ridge Golf Club and Stonebridge Golf Club. The charging stations can restore 80% or more of an electric vehicle’s power in about 40 minutes for anywhere from $5 to $20. As reported in the September 2024 West Valley City Journal, the chargers are the result of a partnership between West Valley City and eV Power Exchange, a Salt Lake City company that is installing public EV chargers in a growing number of cities around the state and country. (Photo by Darrell Kirby)
March Calendar of Events
March 1 All Star Monster Truck, 7 p.m., Maverik Center
March 2 All Star Monster Truck, noon and 5 p.m., Maverik Center
March 3 Iowa Wolves vs. Salt Lake City Stars, 10:30 a.m., Maverik Center
March 4 Dream Theatre (40th Anniversary Tour), 7:30 p.m., Maverik Center
March 7 Tulsa Oilers vs. Utah Grizzlies, 7:10 p.m., Maverik Center
March 8 HEART in concert, featuring Cheap Trick, 8 p.m., Maverik Center
March 9 Tulsa Oilers vs. Utah Grizzlies, 7:10 p.m., Maverik Center
March 20 LOVB Salt Lake vs. Madison, 7 p.m., SLCC Bruin Arena
March 22 Big 12 Gymnastics Championships, noon and 5 p.m., Maverik Center
March 26 Allen Americans vs. Utah Grizzlies, 7:10 p.m., Maverik Center
March 27 Mexico City Capitanes vs. SLC Stars, 7 p.m., Maverik Center
March 28 Allen Americans vs. Utah Grizzlies, 7:10 p.m., Maverik Center
March 29 Allen Americans vs. Utah Grizzlies, 7:10 p.m., Maverik Center
By Tom Haraldsen t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com
Cindy Wood, who has served on the West Valley City Planning Commission for almost eight years, will now get a chance to make decisions as a city councilmember. Wood was selected from a group of 15 candidates by the council on Jan. 28 to fill the vacant seat of Jake Fitisemanu, who was elected to the Utah State Legislature last November. She will represent District 4, which consists of the southwest corner of the city.
The decision came after each candidate took part in a five-minute review during the council meeting. She was selected after three candidates took part in a coin-flip to determine the two finalists. Amitonu Amosa, Greg McPherron and Renee Layton had each received one vote from the six councilmembers after the reviews, while Wood received three. So a coin flip to determine a second-place finisher eliminated two, with Amosa facing Wood in the final vote.
“I really enjoy being involved in the city as part of the planning commission,” she
said. “They truly get exposure to things going on in the city. The planning commission makes recommendations to the city council, and then we also get requests from the city council for things to consider. So they are just great people that I've worked with there, and now I can work with them again in a different role.”
Wood joins Lang as just the second woman on the council. She said she was excited to have the chance to apply for the seat, but added “it gets a little bit intimidating putting yourself out there, as there were many good candidates that submitted applications.”
“I talked to Mayor Lang about this when Jake won his legislative seat,” Wood said. “She gave me some insight and a little bit of encouragement, nothing over the top. And then, I've lived in the city for a long time. I just want to try and continue to help the city in whatever way I can.”
During the candidates’ reviews, which consisted of three minute introductions and then answers to two questions, Wood stated her desire to help improve the city’s image, and to see more affordable permanent housing be developed.
“We need to promote the good things that are happening in West Valley City,” she said. “As an example, look at all the talented artists who perform at the Utah First Credit
Union Amphitheatre. We rarely hear it referred to as being in West Valley, but it is. The same goes for the Maverik Center, and the Utah Cultural Celebration Center. What tends to pop out with West Valley and Kearns are the bad things–as if everything bad happens on the west side, which is of course not true. I grew up in Magna, so I’ve lived on the west side my entire life. We have a lot of
very positive things happening here, and we need to celebrate and promote those.”
She said the city has really “stepped up its game” regarding new cultural projects and community improvements, including new regulations and requirements for developers or new businesses.
“We are making this city very attractive and we need to continue along that road,” she said. “The street landscape projects with the trees, for example, are great. I have friends that live on the east side, and when we bought our current house, they came out to see it. Our house faces east, and you can see the Wasatch mountains, and you can even see downtown. And one of my friend’s husbands was out on my deck, and he said, ‘I had no idea that this was in West Valley.’ I think it's just a lack of education about us, and we need to tell our story.”
Wood’s appointment is just for the remainder of this year, and she will have to run for election again in November for a fouryear term if she wants to remain on the council. She plans to do just that.
“I made that decision and told my family that, if I'm selected, I'm going to run again,” she said. “I don't think a year would give me enough time to really see some of the things I want to see accomplished. I feel passionate about this, and I also feel like I'm a good representation of District 4.” l
Newly elected West Valley City councilmember Cindy Wood. (Photo courtesy of WVC)
Community hero: Love of hockey leads Sandy family to help develop youth players
A Sandy couple is paying for development of youth ice hockey players through their nonprofit organization called Salt Lake Effect Hockey Club.
By Tom Haraldsen t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com
It started with figure skating lessons for their oldest daughter, but that’s not how Danny and Beth Ingram of Sandy were drawn to their passion today–youth ice hockey. It led to the couple’s creation of the Salt Lake Effect Hockey Club, which is benefitting hundreds of young people energized by a sport boasted by the fact that Salt Lake City now has its own National Hockey League team.
“We wanted to introduce both of our daughters to figure skating, starting with our oldest daughter Klyne,” Danny said looking back more than a decade ago. “She started skating, but she eventually decided to try other things such as gymnastics. Our second daughter Millie was also in a Learn to Skate program in San Antonio where we were living, and the ice rink was divided for skating on one side and hockey on the other. She spent all of her time captivated by hockey on the other side, started pointing and getting really excited. She was 3 years old.”
Needless to say, hockey became her
Spring and summer tryouts
• Session 1: March 9, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Peaks Ice Arena, Provo
• Session 2: March 16, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Peaks Ice Arena, Provo
For players born in 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016
sport.
The Ingrams, named this month’s Community Heroes for the City Journals, moved to Salt Lake City in 2015, not long after their son Clark was born, and both he and Millie are entrenched in ice hockey. Today, Millie plays as a goalie U14 Utah Lady Grizzlies traveling team, and recently competed in a tournament in Sun Valley, Idaho. Clark is part of the Utah Junior Grizzlies. Both are very dedicated to their sport, as are their parents.
The more their kids got involved, the more they sensed there was a need to change the playing field, or the ice so to speak, re-
garding some youth hockey programs.
“We started the Effect last March,” Danny said. “We wanted to help all the players with the desire for an equal chance to play, and to focus efforts on character building and shaping them into leaders, using hockey as that platform. And we identified some of the barriers to the kids really getting the investment that they need.”
The first one was the price of the sport.
“It shouldn't be who your mom and dad are or how much money they make,” Beth said. “That's a barrier for a kid playing a game that they want to play. And so we wanted to remove that as an obstacle. Understand that hockey is a very expensive sport, with ice time and equipment and everything else.”
To that end, the Ingrams have invested their time and literally hundreds of thousands of dollars of their own money and started Effect. But cost wasn’t the only issue they had with existing programs.
“We kind of looked at some of the stuff that USA Hockey is doing as a monopoly, and it's really discouraging competition and impeding innovation, and there's a lot of dialog and debate. So Beth and I decided we wanted to work together, show the example of what can be, embrace stewardship and give back. Everybody was talking and change wasn't happening, and we felt that we should go, walk the walk, put our money where our mouth was, create experiences for the kids, lead by example. And the change needed was from outside because of the entrenchment that select people have; the influence, the control that change isn't going to come naturally.”
“Our mission is to transform great athletes into better people,” Beth said. “We’re guided by the platinum rule that you treat
others the way we would like to be treated. We focus on the youth athlete with three goals for our program—increase experience, improve skills and inspire passion. I think parents are sometimes a contributing factor to kids not understanding reality, and they're high maintenance and entitled. We want to help parents to see that there's no entitlement. Help associations and organizations realize positive change.”
The Salt Lake Effect is having two tryout sessions in March, on the 9th and 16th (see sidebar), and the Ingrams are investing in 220 skaters fighting for 10 teams with roster spots. They are paying for everything involved in this sport–the ice time, the coaching, the uniforms for both practice and travel, and all the tournament entry fees for the season coming up. Parents will only be responsible for paying their own travel expenses. Independent evaluators, including some former NHL players and prestigious coaches, will be at the tryouts. No teams are set in stone, and players will be chosen solely on their merits on ice. No parent will have control over those selections.
Still in its first full year of operation, Salt Lake Effect will continue to expand into younger age groups, eventually for players ages 5 and above all the way to age 18.
“We think ultimately, in the program, we will have between 500 to 600 kids that make teams that will get the game of hockey largely given to them free, and to make it less of a burden for parents,” Danny said. “We want to teach them life skills and invest in their hockey development, but also the development of their character and shaping them into future leaders. So that's the dream for us.”
Find out more at saltlakeeffect.org.l
Enjoying the NHL Winter Classic outside game at Wrigley Field in Chicago were the Ingrams, from left, Millie, Beth, Clark, Danny and Klyne. (Photo courtesy of the Ingram family)
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 Edu-
cation 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 friend-
ship 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. We’d love to see these types of things continue to expand. Our traditional ed kids learn valuable skills beyond the educational realm when they have opportunity to interact and support our special education students.” l
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)
Prayer replaced with moment of silence in Sandy City Council meeting, not permanent
Chair Aaron Dekeyzer replaced the prayer with a moment of silence to acknowledge national concerns and public servant responsibilities. Other cities like WVC hold an “opening ceremonies.”
By Rebecca Olds rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com
When the prayer was replaced with a moment of silence during the Sandy City Council’s meeting on Jan. 21, the vocal public didn’t respond well.
Sandy City Council Chair and At-Large Councilmember Aaron Dekeyzer called for the moment of silence instead of the usual prayer as part of the customary opening ceremony before The Pledge of Allegiance on the same week President Donald Trump was inaugurated.
“In lieu of a prayer tonight, I felt it would be appropriate to have a moment of silence,” he said at the beginning of the council meeting. “For the public to know, becoming an elected official really changes one’s perspective, as you now have a duty to your constituents, so I think about things differently.
“I wanted to acknowledge the troubling
state of our nation and the effects that it will have on our community. The multitude of decisions made just yesterday at the highest level of our government have stirred deep emotions and concern among members of our community and many of us, and so I would like you to join me in a moment of silence to reflect on the gravity of the situation, the responsibility that we bear as public servants and the need for unity in action in the face of these challenges.”
Several comments during public discussion criticized the change including resident Craig Ulrich who called it an “affront” to residents when the prayer was not given, noting it is a “time-honored tradition” of the city and nation.
“Yesterday in the Capitol Rotunda, five prayers were offered which recognizes God’s guidance in our behalf,” Ulrich said. “This morning as the Utah legislature began they started with a prayer asking for the Almighty’s guidance.”
Fellow Sandy Councilmember Marci Houseman addressed the occurrence during her usual report to the other councilmembers.
“My hope is today’s deviation from starting our meeting with prayer in order to hold a moment of silence was simply an exception,” Houseman said. “If you are going to substitute a moment of silence for prayer,
please do not politicize that moment of silence.”
Dekeyzer said his main point was to reflect on the duty public servants have to represent their constituents, not to dismiss the prayer.
“I didn’t want this to be an issue,” Dekeyzer said on the stand. “It’s pretty standard to substitute a prayer for a moment of silence.”
He was concerned several residents, who spoke out against this particular occurrence during the same January meeting and following meetings, had assumed the moment of silence was going to replace the prayer permanently, but that isn’t the case.
On the issue of including prayers in city council meetings as a whole, Sandy City Council’s executive director, Dustin Fratto, said it would be “impossible” to regulate what constitutes a prayer. We have to “open all the doors” or not at all, he said. In the past, poems, moments of silence or other similar expressions have replaced prayer in the city, a practice used across the county.
While Dekeyzer made it clear his moment of silence was not meant to be a version of a prayer, Fratto said it has been substituted for a prayer in past meetings as many as two to three times during the year.
A document shared with the City Journal by Sandy City Attorney Shane Pace explained prayer is allowed in government or political meetings but not mandated by the government.
“Court rulings clearly indicate that the practice of having a prayer at the beginning of a public government legislative meeting is permissible under the U.S. Constitution,” Pace wrote in the document. “However, it is also equally clear that the government cannot dictate the form or content of any prayer offered at such meetings.”
Among other cities that have a prayer as part of the opening portion of a city coun-
cil meeting, replacing the opening prayer with something different isn’t an abnormal occurrence.
West Valley has been known to invite groups to city council meetings, especially former West Valley Councilmember Jake Fitisemanu (Democrat), who just joined the Utah House of Representatives representing District 30.
“During my time at the West Valley City Council, we always had an ‘opening ceremony’ for our weekly meetings, but it was not prescribed whether it needed to be a prayer and/or the pledge,” he wrote in an email to the City Journal. “When it was my turn to conduct the opening ceremony, I always invited West Valley City residents to offer opening remarks, a cultural protocol, or a prayer…because I wanted to intentionally highlight the diversity we have in our city.”
Fitisemanu said he often invited “pastors from local Protestant churches, monks from the Wat Lao Buddhist Temple, Native American spiritual leaders,” Polynesian students, boy and girl scouts, and even a Chinese dragon dance group to participate.
He felt these opening ceremony additions “honored the nature of the city council meeting and set the tone for the evening in a substantive, meaningful way, but wasn’t necessarily a religious prayer.”
“I am certainly not opposed to starting public meetings with a prayer, but I also think there are also other alternate gestures of respect and spirituality with similar significance and meaning,” he said.
Other city councils (including Midvale, West Jordan, Holladay, South Salt Lake, Cottonwood Heights and Draper) across Salt Lake County do not have a prayer as part of their opening ceremonies.
No current conversations are underway about discontinuing prayer in Sandy City’s meetings. l
West Valley City Council meetings “intentionally highlight the diversity” in the city by inviting different groups to participate in the opening ceremony of city council meetings. (Travis Barton/City Journals)
High school boys’ basketball season in final stretch with Cyprus near the top
West Valley teams were hopeful to
By Greg James g.james@mycityjournals.com
The high school boys basketball season is headed down the final stretch. Cyprus, Hunter and Granger each had good runs this year.
The Cyprus High School boys basketball team is enjoying a successful season, currently standing at 13-8 and holding firm in second place in Region 4. With just a few games remaining before postseason play begins, the team is aiming to finish strong and secure a favorable spot in the playoffs.
The standout player for the Cyprus team this season has been senior guard Beckham Bayles. Averaging an impressive 17.3 points per game, Bayles has been a consistent offensive threat, leading his team in scoring throughout the year. His ability to drive to the basket, hit crucial three-pointers, and create opportunities for his teammates has made him a key player for the squad.
"I just try to do whatever I can to help my team win," Bayles said after a recent game. "Whether it's scoring, making assists,
Community events are coming soon in West Valley City
Preparations are underway for several annual outdoor events in West Valley City, starting with SpringFest May 3.
By Tom Haraldsen t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com
Itor playing tough defense, I just want to help us get better every game."
Cyprus head coach Tre Smith has praised Bayles’ leadership and work ethic. "Beckham has been fantastic all season," Smith said. "He's not only one of our top scorers, but he brings energy and intensity every time he steps on the court. The guys look up to him, and he leads by example."
The boys state tournament is scheduled to begin Feb. 19 at home sites. The finals will be held at the University of Utah Feb. 28 (after press deadline).
Cyprus is set to return to the state tournament after a disappointing 2024 season. In 2023 the Pirates advanced to the state semifinals.
Hunter has a 6-15 record. Senior Dominick Phannolath leads the Wolverines in scoring averaging 19 points a game. Keaton Miller has averaged 7.2 rebounds per game.
Granger has made strides to improve this year. They have a 3-17 record. They beat Hunter 52-45 and Taylorsville 53-52 in two of its closest matchups. Senior Mason Biddulph scored a season high 24 points at West Jordan earlier this season.
The West Valley schools compete in the UHSAA region 4 against Juan Diego, Kearns, Taylorsville and West Jordan. l
might still be cold and wintry outside, but spring and summer activities are not that far away. Organizers of events in West Valley City are gearing up for several events.
The 2025 West Valley City Farmers Market will be held on Thursday nights starting June 19 at Centennial Park (5405 W. 3100 South). The markets will be open from 5 to 9 p.m. each week through Oct. 9.
As always, they’ll feature locally grown or handmade items, entertainment, food for purchase at the park, and more. Applications will be available soon. Contact good4lifemarkets@gmail.com or call 801-413-8973 for more information.
The annual SpringFest is set for May 3 at the Utah Cultural Celebration Center, 1355 W. 3100 South. It will run from 4 to 7 p.m. The festival features music, crafts, food, and family-friendly activities. Local vendors will have their products on display, and there will be representatives from the city to connect residents with local resources. You can get more information on the city website at www.wvc-ut.gov.
And it wouldn’t be summer with WestFest, the city’s annual celebration of its establishment and recognition of the community’s many cultures. This year’s WestFest will be held June 12-15 at Centennial Park (5405 W. 3100 South). It includes a parade on the 15th, a talent showcase, a “Fun Run,” fireworks each night and lots of fun and carnival rides in the park. Those wishing to have a vendor booth, food booth or to be an entertainer should plan on registering soon. Again, information will be available on the city website. There’s always a need for volunteers as well. l
The annual WestFest celebration this year will be held June 12-15 at Centennial Park. (Tom Haraldsen/ City Journals)
Cyprus High School boys basketball team hopes to have an impact in this year's state tournament after its semifinal appearance in 2023. (Greg James/City Journals)
play havoc on this season’s state tournament.
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 sai d. 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,
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)
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
Hunter High’s Grace Gallagher is top player to watch in girls basketball
Girls high school basketball in West Valley has seen improvement, Hunter represented the city at the 5A state tournament playoffs.
By Greg James g.james@mycityjournals.com
Hunter,
Cyprus and Granger high school girls basketball teams have encountered challenging seasons so far, but they all have worked hard to end the season on winning notes.
Hunter has a 9-12 record that has them in contention to make the state tournament. Despite the team’s struggles, one bright spot has been sophomore guard Grace Gallagher, who has emerged as a standout player, leading the team with an impressive 14.4 points per game.
Gallagher, a dynamic and skilled scorer, has been a consistent force for the Wolverines, showing maturity beyond her years. Her ability to create opportunities on both ends of the court has made her one of the top players to watch in the league.
"Grace has been phenomenal this season," said Hunter's head coach Emily
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Brough. "Her work ethic and dedication are second to none, and it's clear that she's not just a great player, but a leader for this team. We're excited to see how she continues to develop."
Though the team has faced challenges, including injuries and close losses, Gallagher's leadership has been a beacon of hope. As the season progresses, Hunter will look to her and the rest of the team to finish strong.
With her current performance, Gallagher has already established herself as a player to watch in the coming seasons.
Cyprus has struggled in a tough season. Their 1-19 record will make it difficult to advance to the state tournament.
Senior Chloe Sharp has led the Pirates in scoring averaging 9.6 points per game. Their only win came over Granger 53-45, a season high in points for the young team.
Granger won three straight games at the beginning of the season. They defeated Utah Military Academy, Logan and Ben Lomond. Since then it has been difficult to score enough points to get in the win column again. The Lancers are winless in region play.
The girls state basketball championship is scheduled for Feb. 28 and will be held at the University of Utah. l
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Granger High School senior Kato Makoni lines up to shoot a free throw against Taylorsville. In the game she scored a season high 12 points. (Photo courtesy of Granger Athletics)
Granite School District will continue to maintain the facilities and grounds of the old campus.
The district does not intend to sell the Cyprus High property at this time. If at some point in the future that changes, Magna City legally has the first rights to purchase the property under the law.
Brockbank Jr. High is reopening!
With the opening of the new high school and implementation of K-5/6-8 grade reconfiguration, Brockbank Jr. High is reopening to 6-8 grade students for the 2025-2026 school year!
Brockbank will offer exciting STEM classes and put students on a path for future success. If you have any questions, please email the new principal, Tim Clark, at: tclark2@graniteschools.org
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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.
PresidentTrump’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.
