West Valley Journal | June 2024

THE FIGHT IS ON TO SAVE WEST VALLEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

By Tom Haraldsen | t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com

Just before the West Valley City Council met on May 7, the public learned of the city’s plan to close the West Valley Performing Arts Center when the current season concludes this fall. Since that announcement, leaders have heard from hundreds of residents either in person at council meetings or through emails and social media voicing their objections to that decision and citing the importance of the theater to the community. Many of them are taking action and asking for the city to reconsider.

The proposed closure came after new city manager Ifo Pili looked at reports of the subsidies West Valley has put into the center over the past three years, as well as a feasibility study about the costs of needed repairs to the building. Pili also serves as president of the West Valley Arts Foundation Board of Directors.

“The large part of the equation is the building, but the other part is operations,” he said when addressing residents at the May 7 meeting. “It was never supposed to be totally sustainable, just like a park isn’t, because there’s a value that’s created in the city. However, it wasn’t supposed to continue on a trajectory that continues to bleed money from the general fund.”

He said in fiscal year 2021, the city

Continued page 6

West Valley Performing Arts Center could be closed once the current season ends this fall

costs

repairs. (Photo courtesy of WV Arts–Save the West Valley Performing Arts Center)

What to know about visiting the E.R.

By Dr. Alex Drake

At CommonSpirit Health, our vision is a healthier future for all – inspired by faith, driven by innovation, and powered by our humanity. This extends to all the care we provide our patients, whether it be in our doctor’s offices, our clinics, or our hospitals.

We want your visit to our care sites to be as comfortable as possible, and we know that visiting the Emergency Department (ER) is difficult for any patient and their loved ones. I would like to share some information about what to expect in the ER, so that you can be as prepared as possible.

Our emergency caregivers are here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to serve our community. We accept all patients – regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. A typical visit to the ER can take two-to-three hours, but please know that in the ER we must evaluate and treat our patients based on severity of their condition. This might mean longer wait times in the lobby or even after being placed in an exam room. However, this also means that if you’re having a life-threatening emergency, you will have the undivided attention of our doctors and nurses.

If you have mild-to-moderate symptoms – such as fever below 103 degrees without a rash, flu-like symptoms without shortness of breath, or sprains and strains – you may wish to consider calling your primary care provider or visiting an urgent care center, as these options may be faster and are often less expensive.

Symptoms or health issues that require immediate medical attention may include the following:

• Chest pain

• Sudden weakness or trouble talking

• Difficulty breathing

• Spinal injuries

• Severe head injury

• Major broken bones

• Major burns

• Sudden change in vision

• Heavy bleeding

• Large open wounds

You should never drive yourself to an ER if you are having severe chest pain, severe bleeding, if you feel like you might faint, or if your vision is impaired. When in doubt, please call 911 — what matters most is that you get to the emergency room quickly and safely. If you arrive by

ambulance, you will be triaged and we will determine the level of care required.

All emergency physicians at CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospitals are board certified in Emergency Medicine and have trained for many years to help you in your emergency. The doctors also have specially trained midlevel providers who can also help. Your provider may order tests like X-rays, CT Scans, Ultrasounds, bloodwork, urinalysis, an electrocardiogram (EKG), or others, depending on your health problem.

After receiving test results, the doctor will discuss the findings and diagnosis with you. If needed, they will advise admission to the hospital. If your condition does not need admission, they will give you written instructions about treatment to be followed at home. This may include prescriptions, tips for home care, and any referrals needed for following up with either a primary care or specialized doctor.

While we hope for the health and safety of those in our community, know that we are here if you need us. Our excellent doctors and nurses at CommonSpirit Holy Cross Hospitals are ready to provide high-quality, compassionate, and timely care.

When things go wrong, we provide the right care.

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Emergency Physician

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Jordan Valley West

HERE’S THE FULL SCHEDULE:

Thursday, June 13

5 p.m.-11 p.m. - Festival and carnival

Friday, June 14

5 p.m.-11 p.m. - Festival and carnival

10 p.m. - Fireworks

Saturday, June 15

8 a.m. - WestFest Fun Run

10 a.m. - Parade

11 a.m.-11 p.m. - Festival and carnival

10 p.m. - Fireworks

Sunday, June 16

Noon-10 p.m. - Carnival

Annual WestFest coming June 13-16

By Darrell Kirby | d.kirby@mycityjournals.com

It’sWest Valley City’s biggest event of the year.

WestFest, the city’s annual community and cultural celebration, is June 13-16 at Centennial Park, 5405 W. 3100 South.

Like past years, the outdoor festival will feature booths with vendors, crafters and even some city departments and committees. They

WEST VALLEY TEAM

The West Valley Journal is a monthly publication distributed directly to residents via the USPS as well as locations throughout West Valley City.

For information about distribution please email hello@thecityjournals.com or call our offices. Rack locations are also available on our website. The views and opinions expressed in display advertisements do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions held by Loyal Perch Media or the City Journals. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the owner. © 2019 Loyal Perch Media, Inc.

Bryan Scott | bryan.s@thecityjournals.com

EDITOR

Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com

Mieka Sawatzki | mieka.s@thecityjournals.com

Jason Corbridge | jason.c@thecityjournals.com

Ryan Casper | ryan.c@thecityjournals.com

will offer everything from free information and goodies to crafts, clothing and other items for sale. And of course, there’s food. Trucks and booths will feature a variety of American and ethnic eats. There will be daily musical entertainment on the stage and the always popular carnival.

One of the bigger fireworks displays in

Greg Tanner | greg.t@valuepagesutah.com CIRCULATION

Rack

Lydia Rice | lydia.r@thecityjournals.com 385-557-1022

the area will light up the sky on Friday and Saturday nights, June 14-15. Don’t forget about the WestFest Fun Run and parade Saturday morning at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m., respectively. For more information, visit westfest.org. l

a

Our

WestFest will return June 13-16 at Centennial Park, 5405 W. 3100 South. (File photo Kevin Conde)

(Darrell Kirby/City Journals)

Used bicycles are assisting young burn victims to attend a special camp, thanks to area police and fire agencies

By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com

Taylorsville City Council members re-

cently voted unanimously to allow their police department to make a sizeable donation, which will help TVPD clear out a lot of room in its evidence storage area. The council gave a thumbs up to allowing about 40 stolen or lost bicycles to be donated to charity.

“A few of these are stolen bikes; but most of them were just found and never reclaimed,” said Taylorsville Police Evidence Manager Paula Lozano. “We had to pull a couple of them from the Jordan River. Whenever we get bikes, our policy is to hold them for 90 days to be reclaimed. After that, I post a notice online for nine more days describing the bike. Then, with city council approval, we can donate them.”

As of press time, the 40 bikes had not yet been wheeled onto a truck; but the transport was imminent. Before this shipment, TVPD had already donated 47 bikes to the cause.

Where are they headed? Not far. The 2and occasionally 3-wheelers are bound for West Valley City Fire Station 74, where they will be greeted by a 19-year veteran WVC Fire Captain, with the most unusual first name you’ve ever come across.

“My parents did that to me and, yes, I have to spell it for people all the time,” Captain Faye-Dawn Orullian said of her hyphenated moniker. “But that’s OK; I’m used to it now.”

Orullian has also quickly become used to restoring the used bikes – upwards of 100 of them per year – because she was not will-

ing to allow a unique charitable program to quietly disappear when one of her colleagues chose to retire.

“Our bike program was started in 2014 by now retired Fire Battalion Chief Jeff Fox,” she explained. “This project has raised more than $35,000 over the past decade.”

Funds raised through bike sales are donated to a special camp for adolescent burn victims operated by the University of Utah Health Burn Center. Orullian is proud to coordinate the program because young burn victims aren’t the only people benefiting.

“It is such a joy to tell parents how much a bike costs and to see the smile on their faces when they realize they can afford

it for their child,” Orullian said. “Many people purchasing our repaired bicycles are lower income. We’re pleased to sell them at a very reduced price – and still raise thousands of dollars for the burn camp.”

Nearly all bike sales occur in one 4-day shot – with the next one coming very soon.

“The number one place we sell the bikes is WestFest,” Orullian said.

Akin to our familiar Taylorsville Dayzz, WestFest is a community celebration marking the establishment of West Valley City. It includes a carnival, food vendors, “fun run,” parade and fireworks. This year’s WestFest runs June 13 to 16 (westfest.org).

“We’ll have bicycles for sale at West-

Fest ranging in cost from $10 to maybe $200,” Orullian said. “I actually have a triathlon bike right now that is worth maybe $6,000. We’ll try to get at least $2,000 for that one. I will likely try to sell it online. That’s probably more money than someone will be carrying around at WestFest.”

At the moment, the only police departments donating bikes to the burn victim charity are those in Taylorsville, Tooele and West Valley City. But Orullian says that’s more than enough – and they don’t need individuals dropping bikes off at their nearest fire station either.

“We receive about 100 bikes per year, which is all we can handle,” Orullian said. “I am a mountain biker and road biker, so I know how to do most basic-to-moderate repairs. Some of my crew helps, but it’s mostly me. So, we are receiving enough bikes.”

Orullian says the costliest part of restoring bikes is replacing the seats after they’ve been destroyed by rain and snow. Her policy is never to put more than $20 into an individual bicycle repair.

“Our department is happy to donate to the West Valley City Fire charity bike program,” TVPD Office Manager Brandy Stephens concluded. “And we’re grateful our city council always votes to support it.”

As a final caveat, Stephens and Lozano also want to remind Taylorsville residents: if your bicycle goes missing, remember to call TVPD to ask about it. The only reason this most recent donation to the burn camp fundraiser was possible is because 40 bike owners never took time to make that call. l

‘Startup capital of the world’ initiative launched to help support small businesses

Utah is home to 324,821 small businesses that collectively employ around 625,571 people.

That means about 45.5% of Utah employees are employed by a small business.

And in a bid to provide further support to startups and small businesses, Gov. Spencer Cox and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity have launched the Startup State Initiative. The initiative includes an all-in-one website to help guide startups, small businesses and entrepreneurs through every step of the business journey.

“Utah has created the perfect ecosystem for startups to thrive,” said Cox in a statement. “The Startup State Initiative highlights what already exists in Utah and elevates it to new heights. It isn’t just about Utah, it’s about setting a new global standard for innovation and entrepreneurship.”

The website holds resources like step-by-step business journey guides, a resource fitter and a business plan generator to connect entrepreneurs with the information necessary to start their business.

Brad Bonham, Utah’s first entrepreneur-in-residence, announced the launch of the website at the One Utah Summit in April.

“Startup.utah.gov and the Startup State Initiative celebrate,

By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com

inspire and empower Utah entrepreneurs and those who support them,” said Bonham in a statement. “We want to continue encouraging innovators to start their businesses in Utah and let them know that this resource can assist them while navigating entrepreneurial challenges.”

During Cox’s speech at the One Utah Summit, he declared Utah as the “startup capital of the world,” and his latest move seems to be pushing to solidify that title.

Utah’s low corporate tax rate and high government support for small businesses make Utah a prime startup environment. These have led to Utah being recognized as the No. 1 best state to start a business, the nation's best economy, and the No. 1 best economic outlook for the 17th consecutive year.

In a statement, Ryan Starks, executive director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity said: “We are proud to support Gov. Cox in this initiative and are excited to continue championing Utah’s small business community. An entrepreneur’s journey can often be daunting. Whether someone is at the early stages of an idea, needs help creating a business plan, or is considering how to grow or sell a business, startup.utah.gov is a one-stop-shop that truly highlights Utah as the Startup Capital of the World.” l

Behind West Valley City Fire Station 74 you’ll find these used bikes – with more to be delivered from the Taylorsville City Police Department. They’re being repaired and sold to raise charitable donations. (Carl Fauver/City Journals)

In January, Wallethub named Utah as the best state to start a business and a U.S. News & World Report crowned Utah as home to the nation’s best economy. (Photo from Startup State Initiative)

Cyprus High senior named Granite District’s ‘Absolutely Incredible Kid’

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

It was a bittersweet moment for Kalia Gomez when she was named Granite District’s “Absolutely Incredible Kid.” On the one hand, she was presented with scholarship money, a laptop, gift cards and her first Minky Couture blanket. On the other hand, she had been through some tough challenges and faced profound loss.

The Granite Education Foundation, and other partners, present the “Absolutely Incredible Kid” award to a student in Granite District who overcomes obstacles and defies the odds to excel in school and their career path. Each high school in the district nominates two students. Kalia, a 17-year-old senior at Cyprus High, was given the award after demonstrating resilience and courage following the death of her mom in 2022.

“I feel like I didn’t do anything spectacular or anything different than what other people have to do,” she said. “I just had to keep surviving.”

Kalia’s school counselors and Granite administrators feel she doesn’t give herself enough credit for her accomplishments. GEF CEO Jadee Talbot said he admired every student nominated for the award but Kalia’s story stood out for her maturity, dedication to education and positive outlook.

“What a powerful thing for a kid that age to lose their mom and not have a family support system,” Talbot said. “She knows her situation isn’t ideal but she knows she doesn’t have to be defined by it. Not only did she finish high school but she’s putting herself in a position to have a successful life going forward.”

Kalia was living in Arizona when her mom died, and

Continued from front page

provided $600,000 in subsidies. In fiscal year 2022, that grew to $1.2 million and is projected to reach nearly $1.6 million in the current fiscal year. In addition, he said the cost for repairs to the building itself are estimated to be about $7.3 million.

At the May 7 meeting, nine residents spoke up in favor of keeping the center open. John Sweeney, artistic producer for West Valley Arts, said the center was recognized for the second straight year as the Best of State Semi Professional Theater. He has directed “A Christmas Carol” for Hale Centre Theatre for 21 years, including the years Hale used the center before building its own location in Sandy. And he bristled at the concept that the Utah Cultural Celebration Center in the city could fill the gap as a theatrical performance locale if the West Valley Performing Arts Center is closed.

“That would be similar to taking my Philadelphia Eagles from their home stadium and moving them to Granger High School," he said.

Like all the others who made public comments that evening, he proposed a partnership between the city and the theater community to address the issue and develop a solution.

Morgan Fenner is a third-generation

moved back to Utah to live with her sister. At 16, she became emancipated and has been living as an adult with a shared apartment, a dog and a car. She knows other kids her age don’t worry about things like bills and groceries but for her, it’s just something that has to be dealt with.

She said she missed out on a normal high school experience, especially when she started at Cyprus as a junior, without knowing other students. She didn’t have time to join extracurricular clubs but earned her medical assisting certification through the Granite Technical Institute and will pursue a career in the health care field as she attends the University of Utah this fall.

“I was dealing with sadness and anxiety from my mom's passing,” she said. “I felt like OK, well, this isn’t the high school experience like they show in the movies. [At the university], I want to look into community service projects or clubs they have. I don’t really know what they have there yet, but I want to be a part of it.”

Through the generosity of sponsors like Foundation4Life, Granite Credit Union and VLCM, the “Absolutely Incredible Kid” award will help Kalia begin the next step on her path. She has been accepted into an externship with the Huntsman Cancer Institute where she can continue her study in the healthcare field.

She knows other students struggle with problems that might seem impossible, but she encourages them to stay focused and know better days are ahead.

“You just have to push through it,” she said. “It sounds really cliché, but you just have to look toward what you want and what you want to be. And just know

resident of West Valley City. She bought the home her grandmother lived in and she recalls her grandmother and mother taking her to see plays at the center when she was a child. She’s also performed there many times.

“We met at 10 p.m. on Monday— the day before the council meeting—and we’ve been running at full speed ever since,” she said. A Facebook group called “WV Arts Save The West Valley Performing Arts Center” had over 2,000 members within 24 hours. As of this writing, that has grown to more than 2,400 members.

“We have assigned team leads over strategic areas, meeting with city leaders, organizing community outreach,” she said.

“We hope to have a booth at WestFest to talk about things and make concerted but strategic efforts. The center is a significant cultural cornerstone and a symbol of the city’s vibrancy. There’s nowhere else on this side of the valley for performers and performances like those at the theater. I see it as a statement of unity, pride and progress for West Valley City and I urge the council to partner with the performing arts community.”

There was another group of supporters who spoke at the May 14 council meeting. Councilman Tom Huynh stated, “Do you want to see a 17% property tax to fix this?”

It may not come down to that. Sup-

the situation you’re in currently isn’t going to last forever. There’s always more ahead.” l

porters are working hard to find answers, and Pili said leaders are listening to suggestions. He said the city doesn’t have anything to bring forward right now, but said “we appreciate those of you that have come.”

One issue that West Valley does need to address is a looming bond for the cultur-

al center that is coming due over the next couple of years. But Pili did say, “I’m all ears. I am open to suggestions.”

This issue is far from decided, and the West Valley Journal will stay on top of any developing news. l

Kalia Gomez, a senior at Cyprus High, was named Granite District’s “Absolutely Incredible Kid” for overcoming obstacles during her high school career. (Photo courtesy of Granite School District)

A large group of supporters for the West Valley Performing Arts Center spoke to city council on May 7. (Tom Haraldsen/City Journals)

Neil Armstrong Academy students send Lego minifigure across the Great Salt Lake

By Zachary Smith | z.smith@mycityjournals.com

NeilArmstrong Academy is an elementary school that is known for its focus on STEM education and its unique, handson approach to learning. As a school, they are nothing if not ambitious. Four years ago, Armstrong launched a Lego minifigure 12,000 feet into the air, on the edge of space. For the past several years, they have been sending another Lego minifigure around the world and tracking its movement between various countries and continents, hoping to have it returned back to the school where it started. This year, the school is demonstrating the engineering process by setting sail with Captain Armstrong on the Great Salt Lake.

The Captain Armstrong project is the second part of an ongoing series of STEM projects involving the use of alternative energy sources in travel. Preceding it was the Little Iolani project, in which students designed small boats powered exclusively by alternative sustainable energy to travel through a 50-foot trough of water on the school grounds.

In September 2023, the entire school began collaborating on the design of a small, solar powered, self-steering boat that would be able to sail a Lego minifigure, named Captain Armstrong, across the Great Salt Lake. Each grade level was assigned a different role to fulfill in the project, from designing the boat to programming its movement. The plan was for the boat to travel 22 miles, beginning at Willard Bay and ending at The Great Saltair.

The brainchild behind the project is Neil Armstrong Principal John Paul Sorensen, a man with a passion for inspiring

children to think like engineers. “In schools, we teach kids things,” Sorensen said. “How to read, how to write….I’m of the opinion that it’s not only important that kids remember what we teach them, but also the process of learning.”

“It was really fun, even though there were a few problems,” said Elias Vave, a fifth-grader who was in Sorensen’s “hearty crew” of student volunteers and assisted in the engineering process. Among these problems, he mentioned, were the weight added by the solar panels, the thrusters overheating, and the vessel needing to be waterproofed. The crew found ways to overcome these setbacks in an attempt to make the best version of Captain Armstrong’s vessel—dubbed the “SS Smalls,” a reference to the film “The Sandlot”—that they possibly could.

On May 11 at 9:21 a.m., Sorensen and the hearty crew officially launched SS Smalls from the Antelope Island marina. The event was live streamed so that students and parents could watch from home, and the official Neil Armstrong Academy website hosted 24/7 tracking throughout the duration of the voyage.

Unfortunately, the boat’s thrusters failed due to battery complications, and it was unable to cross the lake. Sorensen was luckily able to retrieve SS Smalls before any major damage occurred. In a video posted to Neil Armstrong Academy’s Facebook account, Sorensen assured that the school would once again collaborate to revise and improve the vessel before returning to the Great Salt Lake at a later date.

“That’s what we do at Neil Armstrong Academy,” Sorensen said. “We try, we

fail, we try again.” Although Captain Armstrong did not succeed during this year’s voyage, Neil Armstrong Academy remains

undeterred and ready to continue the project until the treasure at the end of the lake is claimed. l

Neil Armstrong Academy Principal John Paul Sorensen and his “hearty crew” preparing the vessel for takeoff. (Zachary Smith/City Journals)

Principal John Paul Sorensen and his “hearty crew” at the Antelope Island marina. (Zachary Smith/City Journals)

Justtwo and half years into his teaching career, Majestic Elementary Arts Academy sixth-grade teacher Angus Douglas has been selected as one of the Jordan Education Foundation’s top 18 2024 Outstanding Educators of the Year and named Jordan District’s 2024 Teacher of the Year, which puts him in the running for Utah Teacher of the Year.

Douglas, a resident of West Valley, was nominated by colleagues who said he inspires students to do their best.

“With him as their teacher, students progress with leaps and bounds, because not only does he teach them, but more importantly, they know he believes in them,” Meredith Llewellyn, a colleague, said.

Douglas’ students demonstrate consistent academic growth.

“He maintains the highest growth scores in, not only my building, but the entire district,” Principal Marianne Johansen said.

Douglas said his most effective teaching tool is forming personal relationships with each student so that they feel safe and supported.

“Just fostering those positive relationships with the kids is definitely something that I focus on on a daily basis,” he said.

Top teacher receives two prestigious awards

By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com

“Having that relationship I feel like is really the main reason why I see so much success with my students.”

Douglas is just as dedicated to his colleagues who said he is always willing to support them professionally and personally.

“Angus is kindness personified,” Llewellyn said. “No matter how messy or difficult a task may be, his selflessness knows no bounds.”

Douglas said he just treats others the way he wants to be treated.

“They’re my co-workers, but they’re also my friends,” he said. “I would not be the teacher who I am today without my teammates. I try my best to lift them up and I know that they certainly lift me up every single day.”

Douglas said the best part of receiving the awards wasn’t the plaques and cash prizes but the fact that someone appreciated all his early mornings, late nights and sacrifices he makes for his students.

“Just being seen and being noticed, it’s very validating and helps me feel like OK, this is what I’m supposed to be doing,” Douglas said. l

Majestic Elementary Arts Academy sixth-grade teacher Angus Douglas is named Jordan School District’s 2024 Teacher of the Year received a plaque, candy bouquet and a $1,500 cash prize. (Photo courtesy of Jordan School District)

Angus Douglas celebrates his 2024 Outstanding Educator of the Year award with a confetti high-five from Jordan District Superintendent Anthony Godfrey. (Photo courtesy of Jordan School District)

Inside look into unified basketball: Athletes say it’s more than a game

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

They want to be like Mike—dishing, swishing, jamming.

“I want to slam dunk like Michael Jordan,” said Bingham High sophomore Josh McDonald as he was playing in a regional basketball tournament.

Hillcrest High senior Dax Bowen also likes Jordan’s moves as does Corner Canyon High senior Jadon Medina.

The student-athletes all play for their unified high school basketball teams.

In unified co-ed basketball, there are five players on the court—three athletes and two partners. Teams play against other squads of the same ability in two eight-minute halves. Supported by Special Olympics and the Utah High School Activities Association, unified sports has both a competitive and a player development level, the latter which provides more of a cooperative environment with partners being teammates and mentors.

In the weeks leading up to the state championships, many of the unified basketball players took to the court, practicing skills they learned growing up and playing in regional tournaments.

Murray High started practicing once per week starting a couple months before the state contest. They also did a skills assessment to determine the ability of the players and then divide themselves into two teams.

“We practice shooting and making baskets,” said Murray High junior Parker May, who has a brother who taught him to “dribble, shoot and have my arms up on defense.”

Cottonwood High junior Alizia Sherard said, “We have a lot of practices where we dribble, we try to get the ball from the other team, and we make the shots.”

She learned to play from her dad and continues to play him in the family driveway.

Copper Hills High junior Corbin Roesbery also grew up playing basketball in his driveway. He started at age 12.

Alta High freshman James Miles learned how to play from his dad when he was 4 years old.

“We still play, but now, I’m practicing and playing with my friends and peer tutors in class,” he said.

Hillcrest’s Bowen also learned to play from his dad in a church gym.

“We would shoot around. On this team, we all count on each other,” he said.

Brighton High sophomore Tru Fiessinger said during their practices, they work on dribbling, defense and shooting.

“It comes easy, but to be good, I have to work hard,” Fiessinger said.

For others, basketball was a new sport they learned with their classmates to be able to exercise and be part of their high

school unified team.

Jordan High junior Kaitlyn Uzcaga, who learned to play as a freshman, said her team practiced defense.

“We have practiced our blocking; we’re wanting to move a lot more on the floor,” she said.

Mountain Ridge sophomore Ash Perez said his team also has been practicing.

“Coach (Brock) Whitney, our PE teacher, taught me how to play; I love it,” Perez said.

This year’s unified high school basketball championship was the state’s largest as 80 teams from across Utah converged on the University of Utah’s Huntsman Center and HPER courts to not just determine the winners in the divisions, but to have a chance to display skills learned and to forge friendships on the court.

It was kicked off by the Special Olympics’ athlete oath and a welcome from Gov. Spencer Cox and First Lady Abby Cox, who then helped with a dunk team doing a trick.

Much like other athletes, these Special Olympians wanted to do their best— and win.

Sophomore Saiah Lono said Herriman High’s team has a routine as they prepare for a game.

“I’m the hype man,” the point guard said. “We do a little dance to warm up and we dance to celebrate.”

Cottonwood’s Sherard said she’s always wanted to play at the U.

“I want to be No. 1 here. I like winning,” she said.

West Jordan sophomore Robert West said they practiced to play their best, “but I’m excited to win.”

ee O’Conner says her favorite friends are on her team.

“We go to birthday parties, see movies at a movie theater and go to school dances together,” she said. “It makes me happy.”

Corner Canyon’s Medina knows he’s part of the Chargers’ student body.

“I like being a part of a team where I belong. I’m a part of it and a part of my school,” he said.

Skyline’s Bouck adds, “It’s fun to play here with my friends and have my family and friends cheering.”

Hunter’s Velasquez says she gives her teammates high 5s and cheers for other players when she isn’t on the court.

“We cheer for the other team, especially when they make a basket; it’s fun that everyone can be a winner that way,” she said.

She and other teammates have been part of other unified sports teams; many of the athletes compete in unified soccer. At Hunter, they also perform in their school’s unified musicals.

Alta’s Miles is self-proclaimed “overly competitive. I like to win.”

Teams prepared their strategies.

Bingham’s McDonald loves to play defense.

“We need to stop the other team from scoring. I have to make sure they don’t steal the ball from me, but I love to steal the ball myself,” he said.

Skyline High freshman Andrew Bouck said quick decisions are key.

“Whenever someone passes to me, I will get rid of the ball by shooting it,” he said. “If I don’t have a good look, I’ll pass it.”

Hunter High senior Angelly Velasquez sized up the competition.

“They’re lots of tall teams here,” she said. “We’re hoping we’re fast enough to go around them.”

Jordan’s Uzcaga said they started off playing well.

“We’re doing good and having fun. We’re being brave and trying our hardest,” she said.

Copper Hills’ Corbin said his team works together and helps one another to learn.

“We tell each other to never give up, to listen to our team, to listen to our coach and to have fun,” he said.

The last part, having fun together on and off the court is key, the athletes say.

Herriman’s Lono said they “hang out and have lunch together. We have dance parties.”

West Jordan’s West likes being with friends, seeing movies, playing basketball and listening to music, “mostly Taylor Swift.”

Similarly, Olympus High senior Bail-

Murray’s May swims on his school’s unified swim team.

“I like to go fast and win races and be cheered on. I cheer on others too,” he said.

Copper Hills’ Roesbery placed in the top 10 in the 60 meters at the state track meet last year.

“The best thing on any team is teamwork. It’s good to listen and work together,” he said.

Riverton High seniors Travis Willis and Jason Johnson are the boys’ basketball team managers.

“We hand out towels and we go on the court to wipe the wet spots. If they’re sweaty, we pass the towels,” Johnson said. “We’ve made friends where we hang out, play basketball, listen to music.”

Willis said at unified sporting events, he gets to see middle school friends who go to other high schools.

Hillcrest’s Bowen said his team has gone through a coaching change and several of his teammates graduated last year.

“I’ve made more friends and since I’ve played on the team for a while, I know I need to help them and be one of the leaders on the team,” he said. “State is really big. It’s the main event. But our team is what’s most important.”

Mountain Ridge’s Perez agrees.

“I like helping my team and we love each other,” Perez said. “Unified basketball gives me friends and a good workout so getting a good sweat is worth it.” l

Hunter High’s co-ed unified basketball team, playing at the state tournament, forges friendships through learning teamwork and demonstrating sportsmanship. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

It is nearly five times smaller than its eastern neighbor, but Magna now has something in common with West Valley City. It is a fullfledged city.

H.B. 35, a bill passed during this year’s state legislature, took effect May 1 and converts the five metro townships in Salt Lake County to city status. Magna, along with Copperton, Emigration Canyon, Kearns and White City, can now essentially fully run their own municipalities, determine their destinies, and assess property taxes to do it. What was Magna’s five-member metro township council is now a city council and the mayor, currently Eric Barney, will now be elected directly by voters in the city during the next scheduled municipal election.

Barney says that other than a few technicalities, going from metro township to city does not significantly change how Magna does business. “In 2017, when we became a township, that was incorporation. We were incorporated as a wholly independent entity,” he said. Magna was previously an unincorporated part of Salt Lake County and was governed by the county.

The mayor says momentum had been building the last few years toward Magna and the other metro townships becoming cities. “Through a number of pieces of legislation,

Magna—from township to official city status

By Darrell Kirby | d.kirby@mycityjournals.com

metro townships got more and more authority and clarification of what their role was and how they would operate,” Barney said. H.B 35 simply put a stamp on it. “The only differences between a township and a city were that a city would elect their mayor at large and a city had the authority to levy property tax,” Barney added.

Magna became a metro township in 2017. Prior to that, it was an unincorporated part of Salt Lake County, reliant on the county for all its services. Magna’s 30,000-plus residents

will continue to see many of its services provided by the Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District under the direction of the Magna City Council, like code enforcement, building permits and inspections, business licenses, and public works such as street maintenance and snow plowing. Unified Police Department and Unified Fire Authority will continue to provide those respective services. Magna Water District is still the water and sewer provider. Wasatch Front Waste and Recycling District will keep on picking up trash and recycling.

Most Utah cities become incorporated through a public vote after their residents request more local control, often to determine how they want to grow and what services they want their tax dollars to provide.

Communities exploring voter-approved incorporation have traditionally been a relatively rare occurrence, until lately. “That really has picked up a little bit in the last seven or eight years,” said Justin Lee, deputy director of the Utah League of Cities and Towns. “Not all of them have gone all the way through, but there has certainly been some interest.”

The most recent cities to shed county governance are Erda and Lake Point in Tooele County in 2022. Ogden Valley in Weber County is currently studying the financial viability of becoming a city.

There are presently 255 municipalities in Utah.

Magna is often associated with more than a century of mining, first by Utah Copper Company that later became known as Kennecott Copper. The founder of Utah Copper Company came up with the name “Magna” from the Latin word meaning “great” or “superior.”

Whether township or city, Mayor Barney says Magna is a good place to live. “There’s a long history and legacy here, a lot of good community aspects.” l

Main Street runs through the heart of what is now Magna City.

(Darrell Kirby/City Journals)

Yard & home section

A publication covering local yard and home stories and events in the Salt Lake Valley City Journals presents:

Real estate commission settlement to have minimal impact in Utah

By Jolene Croasmun

Spring is a busy time for buying and selling homes in Utah and sales were up by 9% in April and with the recent National Association of Realtors (NAR) lawsuit settlement, Utah realtors do not expect to see many changes in the way homes are bought and sold.

In March, a $418-million settlement was reached with the National Association of Realtors. The deal came after a jury ruled against the NAR in a class-action antitrust lawsuit. The suit was filed alleging that the association had colluded with some large real estate brokerages to keep real estate commissions inflated, benefiting real estate agents and costing sellers more in the commissions they pay to those agents.

Those rates nationally are about 6%. Approval of the settlement by a federal court would do away with set rates and let buyers and sellers negotiate those commissions with real estate brokers and agents.

The Utah Association of Realtors say the ruling won’t have much impact on buyers and sellers in Utah due to decades of proactive, consumer-friendly efforts by Utah realtors.

“We don’t feel that the lawsuit is going to have a big impact here in Utah,” said Adam Kirkham, president of the Utah Association of Realtors (UAR). “Anyone that sold a home could expect to receive a postcard about the class action suit. The lawsuit did not originate here because in Utah we have been using buyer-agent agreements for 20 years. Consumers in Utah have been more informed about what the commissions were.”

The lawsuit’s resulting rules aren’t expected to impact the inventory of available homes or values, which are based more on the supply and demand in the market, according to Kirkham.

“Millcreek has an affordability issue and between 2012-22 the average homes listed were 500 and post COVID the inventory

dropped and we have been hovering around 160 to 177 available homes for the last two years. Prices went up and the median price of a home in Millcreek is around $688,000 and in Salt Lake City the median price is $535,000,” Kirkham said.

Utah realtors have been using written, transparent agency forms with their buyer clients for decades and providing seller disclosures. This will be new for the rest of the country due to the settlement but was already being covered in Utah.

One of the new rules that came out of the lawsuit is that the buyer’s agent commission can no longer be listed on the multiple listing service (MLS) and this will create a lack of knowledge of what will be paid to the buyer’s realtor.

“Buyers will have to determine for each house what the sellers offering for the buyer’s agent’s commission,” Kirkham said. “This is a conversation you want to have before looking at the house and before you make an offer. The seller’s agent can still advertise the commission on social media or

on the realtor’s website but not on the MLS.”

“Commissions can fluctuate due to inventory and competitiveness of the market,” he continued. “It is worth it for the seller to offer a buyer’s agent commission due to it will bring a better educated consumer who still wants to hire a realtor.”

There will be additional training for realtors who are now required to enter into an agreement with a homebuyer before they look at homes. “So that they can agree upon a commission rate which has always been negotiable,” Kirkham said.

He warned buyers who forego representation to save the commission might regret it.

“Not having an agent can come back to hurt you in negotiation or hiring the wrong inspectors plus you want to be informed of the other offers or you could lose the bid,” Kirkham said. “Agents want to bring value to the process of buying and selling a home.”

Jason Eldredge, local realtor of The Eldredge Group with Equity Real EstateSolid said they always had a buyer-broker

agreement and have their customers sign one.

“The commissions have always been negotiable, and the standard was 6% but now we are seeing commission compression that is nationwide. With all of the iBuyers coming in, it compressed commissions and the new standard is about 5%, but it has always been negotiable,” Eldredge said.

“We meet with our clients and find out what is their situation, why you are selling. A good agent will have some flexibility,” Eldredge said.

The national settlement requires listing agents to disclose to sellers any portion of their compensation that will be shared with a cooperating broker. Sellers must also approve in writing the sharing of the listing agent's compensation. Which Eldredge said is the “bummer” part of the lawsuit.

“You cannot post the commission on the MLS anymore,” he said. “It is an additional negotiating step and could make it really tough for a new buyer. The buyer might have to come up with the commission.”

Deanna Devey, director of operations and communications at UAR, said the changes will be more procedural in Utah.

“The buyer has three options to pay the agent,” Devey explained. “The listing agent will offer to share compensation with the buyer’s agent or the buyer might negotiate directly with the seller to have the seller pay the compensation. The third option is the buyer might pay their agent outright.”

Eldredge added, “I think for the next few years sadly we might have more lawsuits due to buyers not having representation when purchasing a home.”

The new rules go into effect after Aug. 17. More information about the NAR lawsuit can be found at realestatecommissionlitigation.com and Utah FAQs can be found on the website Utahrealtors.com.

Additional reporting by Darrell Kirby.

Home for sale in West Valley City. (File photo Darrell Kirby/City Journals)

Salt Lake County breaks ground on ‘Flip the Strip’ project

By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

In a significant move toward sustainability, Salt Lake County celebrated the groundbreaking of the "Flip the Strip" project, May 16, at the Mountain America Expo Center in Sandy. The event, marked by the presence of Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson and other local officials, signaled the commencement of a $2.1-million initiative aimed at retrofitting park strips with waterwise landscapes across the county.

“Salt Lake County is committed to water conservation and smart water management. As such, landscape standards for waterwise park strips at county facilities have been identified,” the Salt Lake County Mayor’s Office said in a “Flip the Strip” guidebook.

“Water conservation is a critical issue to the well-being of our community as we grow and adapt to the changes our landscape faces,” Wilson said. “‘Flip the Strip’ aims to reduce water use and promote drought-tolerant landscapes.”

According to the guidebook, the project is a testament to the county's commitment to addressing the pressing issue of water conservation amid frequent droughts and changing environmental conditions.

The "Flip the Strip" project targets the

often-overlooked park strips—those narrow stretches of land between sidewalks and roads. These areas will be transformed into drought-tolerant landscapes, a move expected to save the county approximately 4 million gallons of water annually. The pilot program will be implemented at five key locations: the Mountain America Expo Center, the Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office in South Salt Lake, Meadow Brook Golf Course in Taylorsville, Central City Recreation Center in Salt Lake City and Animal Services in Millcreek.

At the event, Wilson emphasized the critical importance of this initiative. “Salt Lake County is committed to long-term water conservation and smart management strategies in response to frequent emergency droughts and changing environmental landscapes. ‘Flip the Strip’ is just one way we are achieving this,” she stated.

The program, which allocates $2 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding, is set to convert four acres (177,860 square feet) of county-owned landscapes. This transformation not only aims to conserve water but also to enhance the aesthetic, environmental and economic value of these areas.

Involved in these efforts, the Salt Lake

“I believe we must stand up and be heard or watch our constitutionally protected rights disappear. We can't continue to let government take over our lives.”

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County Office of Regional Development, released on their website that waterwise landscaping offers numerous advantages, including functional and attractive designs that are easy to maintain. These landscapes are not only visually appealing but also significantly reduce water waste, a crucial benefit in a region often plagued by drought.

Additionally, improved environmental health and economic savings are notable benefits. Less water usage translates to lower bills and simpler irrigation systems, which in turn reduce maintenance costs and enhance curb appeal, making neighborhoods and public spaces more attractive.

Salt Lake County is not stopping at retrofitting public spaces. The county challenges its 1.16 million residents to join the water conservation effort by reducing their own water use by 5%. If 25% of residents take up this challenge, the county could save approximately 2 million gallons of water daily. To help residents achieve this goal, the county offers practical tips. Reducing sprinkler use by 10% can make a significant difference. Watering during the cooler nighttime hours reduces evaporation and conserves water. Using a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways and sidewalks saves water and time. Adjusting sprinklers to ensure they water only plants and grass, not sidewalks or driveways, can help conserve water. Opting

for drought-resistant plants, such as those native to Utah, can keep gardens beautiful while conserving water.

The "Flip the Strip" project is just the beginning of a broader effort to promote sustainable landscaping and water conservation in Salt Lake County. By leading through example, the county aims to inspire its residents and neighboring regions to adopt similar practices.

Mayor Wilson said, “We anticipate that Salt Lake County will save around 4 million gallons of water with the conclusion of the five pilot locations. This initiative not only addresses immediate water conservation needs but also sets a precedent for future sustainability efforts.”

The project’s success will serve as a model for other communities facing similar challenges. Salt Lake County departments have planned to audit outdoor water systems to develop specialized water plans for current and future use. The county parks are relying on current technology to determine minimum watering schedules while continuing to maintain high-quality outdoor facilities.

For information on “Flip the Strip,” including details on rebates and resources from local government agencies, residents can visit the county's website at slcoh20. org.

Mayors from Salt Lake County, Taylorsville City and Sandy City broke ground on the start of a “Flip the Strip” program to make county-owned landscapes more sustainable for the future. (Photo courtesy of Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation)

for by Fred C. Cox, Campaign Fund

Conservation fair highlights waterwise improvements

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

Small changes make a big difference. Last year the Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District sent more than 1.6 billion gallons of water to the Great Salt Lake as a result of residents implementing waterwise conservation.

JVWCD held a water conservation fair at its Conservation Garden Park (8275 S.1300 West) in West Jordan in May, educating gardeners on how to create the healthiest environment for lawns, flowers, trees and shrubs in the Salt Lake Valley.

Here are seven suggested principles to create waterwise landscapes:

Tip 1: Planning and Design. Using the appropriate plants for sun, shade and wind can help sustain a beautiful garden. Visit Localscapes.com to find free, professional designs to make a Utah-friendly landscape. (City Journals)

Tip 2: Practical Turf Areas. Getting away from the idea of “big lawns,” JVWCD suggests spicing up your outdoor space with waterwise plants and trees, and a rea-

sonable amount of turf or ground cover. (City Journals)

Tip 3: Waterwise Plants. Drought-tolerant plants can add color, height and interest to your garden, without using a wasteful amount of water. Iris, daisies, catmint, ice plants and decorative grass are all examples of waterwise choices. (City Journals)

Tip 4: Efficient Irrigation. Learning where and how to plant trees is part of efficient irrigation that allows the trees to take root and bring long-lasting beauty to a landscape. Installing drip systems, maintaining irrigation and fixing leaks keep everything flowing. (City Journals)

Tip 5: Soil Improvements. Overused soil often needs more nutrients to maintain healthy plants. Keep soil healthy by using organic materials and protect topsoil with moisture-retaining mulch. Avoid putting chemicals in the soil, if possible. (City Journals)

6: Surface Mulches. Mulching with

and other plant materials

protects against erosion and retains water. Mulch can also help control weeds and add color to the garden. (City Journals)

Tip 7: Appropriate Maintenance. Even waterwise landscaping needs to be maintained. Weed control, fertilization, healthy pruning and non-chemical integrated pest management will keep the landscape looking good for years. (City Journals)

The Conservation Garden Park is free and open to the public on Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, visit conservationgardenpark.org.

Tip

bark, wood chips

11 local farmers markets to visit this summer

By Rebecca Olds | rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com

Summer and fall bring the season of the farmers markets where vendors sell fresh produce, homemade products and more.

Several farmers markets in Utah, including those hosted by the Utah Farm Bureau on this list, are strict about each product being made or grown by local farmers to support farmers in the state— which ensures quality, fresh produce and goods for shoppers at the markets.

This list is in no way comprehensive or in any particular order, but are just some ideas on where to find some local farmers markets.

1. Sandy City farmers market

Starting June 15, Sandy City partnered with Empowered Community Markets will host a weekly farmers market every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Sandy Amphitheater, 1245 E. 9400 South. With fresh food, shopping, live music, and a splash pad, Sandy’s farmers market will be on the fun to do list all summer long. The farmers market will go on until fall with the last day of the season on Oct. 19.

2. Draper City farmers market

Sunset Farmers Markets, which specializes in evening and weekday markets, runs the show for Draper City’s farmers market. This market is at Smithfields Park every Tuesday from 5 to 9 p.m. from July to September, and then 5 to 8 p.m. in October. More than 80 small local businesses will attend each week, featuring fresh flowers, produce, eggs, honey, milk, meat, baked goods, and art. Food trucks will also be there to offer even more choices for dinner and treats.

3. Suncrest farmers market in Draper

The neighborhood Suncrest Hills, located at 2016 East Village Green Circle in Draper hosts a farmers market on the second Wednesday of the summer months starting in June and ending in October from 5 to 9 p.m. In 2023, they had activities like petting zoos, live music and a s'mores station. Goodies such as fresh bread, homegrown vegetables and salsa, jewelry, soap and much more were also sold.

4. “9th West Farmers Market” in Salt Lake City

This is a market that’s been around since 2005 when The People’s Market was first started by Kyle LaMalfa. It’s hosted near the International Peace Gardens at 542 N. 900 West in Salt Lake City. From midJune to mid-October, the market is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Sunday.

5. Downtown Salt Lake City farmers market

The farmers market in Salt Lake City runs nearly year round. The Saturday summer market runs in the summer and fall from June 1 until Oct. 21 at Pioneer Park (350 W. 300 South) from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. An art and craft market is also held during the same time, in the same place by Urban Food Connections of Utah.

6. Daybreak Farmers Market

Rain or shine, the Daybreak Farmers Market offers 60 booth spaces every week and is run by Empowered Community Markets. In the heart of the Daybreak neighborhood, the market offers local musical talent, locally-grown produce, homemade jewelry and artisanal crafts, and artwork. The market runs every Saturday and starts on June

8, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and runs until Oct. 12, when hours change from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Four times during the summer youth entrepreneurs are invited to open their own store front and sell goods at the farmers market, on June 22, July 20, Aug. 17 and Sept. 28.

7. South Jordan City farmers market

Every Saturday from Aug. 3 to Oct. 15 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., South Jordan will host a farmers market at 1600 W. Towne Center Drive. Each week is focused around a different community activity, including a variety of crafts, a balloon animal artist and more.

8. Utah Farm Bureau’s South Jordan farmers market

This market is also owned and operated by the Utah Farm Bureau and features Utah farmers selling anything from produce, to salsa, fresh bread, jams and tamales. Unlike the Murray Park market, select Utah artisans who use “Utah-grown and raised agricultural products” will be permitted to sell items other than food.

The market is every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. beginning Aug. 3 and running until Oct. 12.

9. West Jordan food trucks, community market and “First Fridays”

Starting in May, food trucks come to usher in the warmer weather in West Jordan. On every second Tuesday of the month from 5 to 8 p.m. at Ron Wood Park (5900 New Bingham Hwy.) near the splash pad, a variety of food trucks come to the west side of the city.

In June through September, a commu-

nity market with vendors will accompany the city’s food truck event.

West Jordan “First Fridays” at the Viridian Events Center, 8030 S. 1825 West, are sponsored by Salt Lake County and West Jordan City, each first Friday of the month until the end of summer and will feature live, local music. Food trucks and a free craft also add to the fun. As the weather gets warmer, summer yard games will also be available to use on the lawn.

10. Utah Farm Bureau’s Murray Park farmers market

The Utah Farm Bureau owns and manages the farmers market every year at Murray Park, located at 296 E. Murray Park Way.

“This makes for a unique shopping experience focused entirely on Utah farmers and the great fresh produce that is available during our growing season,” stated the organization on the event page.

This is a food-only market that begins on July 26. The market will be open every Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m., with the last day on Oct. 28. Food vendor applications are due April 30. 11. Bountiful farmers market

Starting on June 20 and ending on Oct. 17, the Bountiful farmers market will be at the Bountiful Town Square (75 E. 200 South) every Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m., excluding July 4. No animals or skateboards are allowed in the square. See which vendors and local musicians will be there on Bountiful City’s website, www.bountifulutah.gov. l

Fresh produce at Daybreak Farmers Market in years past. (Courtesy of Empowered Community Markets)

The Daybreak Farmers Market in years past has been a popular market with a variety of local produce and lots of visitors. (Courtesy of Empowered Community Markets)

Eighth annual Utah Peer Conference to begin June 20 at Cultural Center

By Tom Haraldsen | t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com

The eighth annual Utah Peer Conference is set for June 20 and 21 at the Utah Cultural Celebration Center in West Valley City. Opening day sessions begin with registration at noon, followed by presentations until 4:45 p.m. An awards gala will be held that evening starting at 7 p.m. and concluding with a dance. The June 21 program begins at 9 a.m. and includes a talk from keynote speaker Donald McDonald at 9:30 a.m. The event concludes at 4 p.m.

Organized by Latino Behavioral Health Services, the theme for this year’s conference is “Navigating the Future Together.”

“Peer support is a part of the human experience,” organizers state in the conference mission statement. “Being able to share experiences, help heal, guide and warn one another is what bonds us as families, friends and communities. There is a long history of peer support that we need to strengthen and cement here at this conference and throughout the coming year. Peers have continued to exercise their voice in their own treatment and recovery process. Today, peers are an essential partner in supporting recovery

through mutual support, education and advocacy across the nation, in the fields of mental health and substance use disorders.”

McDonald will speak on his own sustained recovery from mental, learning and substance use disorders. He has provided non-clinical and clinical services in multiple settings, has been a health policy advocate and a recovery community leader. He has served as the National Field Director of Faces & Voices of Recovery, was the Executive Director of Addiction Professionals of North Carolina, and currently is the Technical Expert Lead at JBS International, where he provides training and technical assistance to HRSA-funded rural consortia across the country, in part due in responded to the overdose crisis.

The conference is free but does require advance registration. You can find more by calling 801-935-447 or visiting info@utahpeerconference.org.

The UCCC is located at 1355 W. 3100 South in West Valley City. l

School-age youth can get a UTA Rider’s License to travel the Wasatch Front

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

UTA’s popular summer youth pass is back, providing unlimited rides on FrontRunner, TRAX, streetcar, UTA On Demand and buses for kids ages 6 to 18. For $49, the UTA Rider’s License can take youth to places from Weber to Utah County.

“UTA is excited to once again be offering kids the chance to get out and explore their community this summer,” said UTA spokesperson Carl Arky. “Our hope is once they start using public transportation, they’ll become more comfortable and familiar with the UTA system and continue using transit as they get older. That will help reduce congestion and air pollution

all while enhancing the quality of life for everyone along the Wasatch Front.”

The pass is valid through Aug. 31 and can be purchased as a mobile ticket on the Ride UTA mobile app. For youth without a smartphone, Tap passes can be purchased online at RideUta.com or UTA customer service locations.

UTA transit goes to Hogle Zoo, Tracy Aviary, Living Planet Aquarium, Thanksgiving Point, BYU Museum of Art, Scera Theater and Outdoor Amphitheater, Lagoon, Cherry Hill, Kenley Amphitheater, Station Park and more. For information, visit rideuta.com/Rider-Info/Riders-License. l

Runnersthat live in West Valley City have numerous chances to participate and share their love for the sport. Hunter, Granger and Cyprus high school athletes have experienced a great track season; their results can help to motivate others to participate.

Cyprus High School’s girls track team captured the Region 4 championship. They scored 292 points in the finals, Taylorsville took second with 119. Granger finished fourth and Hunter sixth. Their success helped the team learn and gain experience.

The Pirates boys team finished in second behind West Jordan, Hunter finished fourth and Granger sixth.

“It is exciting to see them improve,” Granger alumni and former track athlete Gwenn Erickson said. Many fans commented on their Instagram and Facebook posts. Former track athletes wished them the best.

The Region 4 championship included several local athletes winning their respective events.

Cyprus’ Aiden Hicks won first place in the 200 meters, Michelle Ellis won the 400m and 800m; Chris Hercules won the 800m; Jasmine Pacheco won the 1600m; Andrew Poulson won the 3200m; Lily Shawcroft won the 3200m; Leilani Kofe won the discus; Dy-

HunterHigh School’s boys soccer team had a record-setting season. Including a trip to the state semifinals.

“We had a great season,” Wolverines head coach Brett Solberg said. “Online records only go back so far, but I believe this is the best season in Hunter’s history.”

Its semifinal matchup against Wasatch, the No. 1 ranked team in the Utah 5A soccer classification, proved to be difficult. Hunter and Wasatch had taken different routes to the game. Wasatch had cruised through an undefeated season and scored nine goals in two games of the state tournament. Hunter scratched and clawed its way to a 14-2 season; a strong defense helped them be successful.

In its semifinal appearance, Hunter jumped out front first. Jeffery Aguilar Perez scored in the eighth minute of the contest. Hunter successfully held off the powerful No. 1 seed. Wasatch attacked relentlessly throughout the first half and the second.

Hunter goaltender Ariel Martinez deflected shot after shot and the defense cleared the ball from the backfield over and over. Wasatch finally capitalized on an opportunity with about 12 minutes left in the game.

Track athletes win at region meet

By Greg James | g.james@mycityjournals.com

anna Parra won the javelin; and Gabby Morfin won the long jump.

The Pirates won the boys 4x200m relay and the girls 4x400 and 4x800m relays.

Granger won the 4x100 and 4x200 girls

relays.

Lancer senior Demetria Harpe won the girls 200m.

Wolverines senior Griffin Gallagher took first place in the 300m hurdles.

Wolverines fall just short of soccer finals

By Greg James | g.james@mycityjournals.com

The contest ended in a 1-1 tie. After two scoreless overtimes, it was to be decided on penalty kicks.

“We had the lead most of the game, and we are the only ones this season to hold them to only one goal. I feel good about that,” Solberg said.

Wasatch defeated the Wolverines 4-2 in

These winning athletes trained and prepared for their opportunities, some for years. What can residents do to prepare themselves for a local 5K or fun run?

According to verywellfit.com a beginning runner should find a group of friends with similar goals, stay hydrated, and fuel your body with good foods. The website says a four week plan to prepare for a race is perfect for beginners.

Exercising does not need to feel like punishment. Finding activities that your family enjoys doing, celebrating successes, and sharing the fun with friends can make the activity enjoyable.

West Valley Parks and Recreation has scheduled the annual WestFest fun run for Saturday, June 15. The run will start at West Valley City Park (4400 W. 3500 South) and proceed to the fitness center. It is not a timed event and this year the theme is the ’80s.

Runningtheusa.com lists several upcoming races in the area. Some of the most notable include Girls on the Run 5K on June 1; Huntsman Sportsfest on June 8 which includes a 5K and a 10K trail run; and then the Deseret News Marathon on July 24. Runners from across the country participate in that marathon. l

penalty kicks and the Wasps returned to the finals for the fourth time in three years.

“Give it to Hunter,” Wasatch head coach Lance Cosper said after the match. “What a good team, they had a good game plan. It was a great game by Hunter.”

The Wolverines started the season with four straight wins, after a loss to Kearns and

another to Ridgeline they strung together eight straight wins to finish the regular season 12-2.

“Our resilience stands out to me. We played the semifinals without our two starting centerbacks. We had others step up and play very well,” Solberg said.

As a junior Aguilar Perez led the team with eight goals this season. Senior Cooper Hatch had four. No goal was bigger this year than the one sophomore Kallin Banks provided in the final half against Alta. His goal came on a penalty kick when Nick Vargas was fouled in the goalie box.

The Wolverine’s advancement to the semifinals marks its best performance. Since the UHSAA has started the RPI seeding for its tournament, they had not advanced past the second round. In 2019, they lost to Pleasant Grove in the first round of the tournament. This season marks the third straight year Hunter has won a game in the state tournament.

In its 16 games, they only allowed 12 goals and had eight shutouts. Martinez had 14 shutouts in his career at Hunter. l

The Lancer relay team of Maty Bamba, Demetria Harpe, Eli Owda, and Ariane Simo-Komguem won the 4x200m region four relay title. (Photo courtesy of Granger High School)

The Wolverines defeated Alta 1-0 in the quarterfinals of the 5A state tournament. (Photo courtesy of Hunter soccer)

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City parks and staff members receive five statewide awards

By Tom Haraldsen | t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com

The Utah Recreation and Parks Association has presented five awards to the West Valley Parks Department. URPA’s LeeAnn Powell introduced the winners to the city council on May 7.

Longtime employee Nancy Day was given the Lifetime Achievement Award. She has worked in public service in recreation programs for 37 years and just recently retired as West Valley City’s Director of Parks and Recreation. Powell said in that role, Day oversaw the fitness center, 30 city parks, two golf courses, a senior recreation center, a cultural arts center and a community theater. She was also praised for her work on behalf of veterans and was instrumental in West Valley City receiving the Department of Defense Freedom Award.

Day and her husband Joe were also honored together, as the URPA created the Nancy and Joe Day Professional Development Scholarship. Powell said the scholarship, honoring Joe as well for his many years of working side-by-side with Nancy on projects, serves “as a fitting tribute to a leader whose legacy inspires parks and recreation professionals.” It will be awarded annually by the association.

The Centennial Bike Park was award-

ed as Outstanding Facility in Class III.

On the northwest corner of the Centennial Sports Park, the bike park was in development for over 10 years next to the adjacent

skate park. It was officially opened last September and has various lines for bikers with different capabilities, from beginner to advanced. They include a start hill,

banked turns, jump lines, pump tracks, bridges and more.

Van DeWitt of the Micro Crawler Club was awarded as Outstanding Advocate/Volunteer for his vision of planning, constructing and advocating for the West Valley City R.C. Crawler Park. Powell said he volunteered countless hours “in meticulous groundwork, shaping rocks and obstacles” for the scaled crawler trucks that use the course. She said “it has become a haven for families, couples and cross-generational individuals who may not engage in traditional sports, providing them with accessible outdoor space.”

The R.C. Crawler Park was also honored for its uniqueness, being one of the first public parks dedicated exclusively to remote controlled vehicles. Its development turned over 8,400 square feet of previously unused and non-programmable property into a public use venue. It now attracts visitors statewide for its graded steps, inclines, tires, stumps, valleys, rock mounds and tunnels. An addition of an ADA paved path also adds to the accessibility of the park. l

West Valley parks employees and volunteers received five awards from the Utah Recreation and Parks Association.

WestSpringmeyer named WVC Economic Development Director

By Tom Haraldsen | t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com

Valley City Council has approved the appointment of Jonathan Springmeyer as the community’s new Economic Development Director. His appointment was confirmed at a council meeting in early May. His appointment was recommended by city manager Ifo Pili.

He has been serving as the Fiscal Manager for the Redevelopment Agency of West Valley City, as well as the city’s Chief Sustainability Officer. All told, he has worked for over 20 years in economic development and related government areas.

While serving as Vice President and then as President of Bonneville Research, he oversaw projects for multiple Utah municipalities, including Salt Lake City, Spanish Fork, Provo, Taylorsville, West Valley City and Holladay.

Springmeyer earned his degree in Political Science from the University of Utah, where he was a student leader. His community service involvement includes the Holladay City Village Center Collaboration Team, the Josie Johnson Memorial Bicycle Ride Organizing Committee, and former Chapter Adviser for the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity at the University of Utah. l

Jonathan Springmeyer is the new Economic Development Director for West Valley City. (Courtesy of West Valley City)

University of Utah researchers part of $50M commitment to ‘untangle addiction’

By Bailey Chism | bailey.c@thecityjournals.com

Worldwide, someone dies from drug or alcohol addiction every four minutes. Now, a group of University of Utah researchers, led by a professor of psychiatry at Huntsman Mental Health Institute, have been selected to develop a new treatment for substance abuse disorder as part of a $50-million commitment by Wellcome Leap.

Wellcome Leap is a United States based nonprofit organization founded by the Wellcome Trust to accelerate and increase the number of breakthroughs in global health.

The team, with expertise in psychiatry, biomedical engineering, neuroscience, radiology and social work, will work to research a new, noninvasive treatment for addiction. The research will be funded by the Untangling Addiction program. The university is among 14 teams globally working to develop scalable measures to assess addiction susceptibility, quantify the risks stemming from addiction and develop innovative treatments.

Huntsman Mental Health Institute’s Dr. Brian Mickey said, “Substance use disorder is a significant global health problem, and yet the treatment options are limited. We’re developing a non-invasive intervention for preventing and treating addiction, chronic pain, and depression. This funding will help us validate and generate the data to support the next critical step: an efficacy trial to determine the effectiveness of the intervention.”

Mickey’s team will use an ultrasound-based device to help regulate deep brain regions and behaviors associated with opioid addiction. The goal will be to ultimately develop the approach into an individually targeted therapeutic interven -

tion for a range of addictions.

“We have been working on a new brain stimulation method for the past few years,” Mickey said. “And it seems to have promising effects in the vein [of] conditions like depression. And so we decided that addiction was another good potential application.”

Mickey said it’s difficult to get to the deep brain regions because the skull generally blocks ultrasound, but they have a new method that allows them to essentially get through that block.

According to Wellcome Leap, 108 million people globally are estimated to be addicted to alcohol. Nearly 40 million people worldwide are addicted to illicit drugs.

Despite increases in spending on drug abuse prevention and treatment, there have been rising rates of alcohol and drug abuse, according to Wellcome Leap.

“In 2019, alcohol use disorder (AUD)

killed 168,000 people worldwide and was a risk factor in an additional 2.44 million deaths,” said Wellcome Leap’s Untangling Addiction website. “In the same year, substance use disorder (SUD)—partly defined by continued use of substances despite negative consequences—killed over 128,000 people worldwide. And the numbers are getting worse.”

Worldwide efforts intended to reduce and treat addiction have been ineffective primarily because “only a fraction of people with addictions get treatment and treatment approaches are one-size-fits-all with minimal, if any, matching of treatment to the underlying physiology of the person with addiction.”

And there are no standard relapse prevention programs with the result that more than half of those treated to achieve substance abstinence revert back to their addiction within 90 days.

“Addictions are brain illnesses that have enormous negative impacts on individuals, families and society,” Mickey said. “A major reason that addictions have been difficult to prevent—and treat—is

BUILDING THE FUTURE OF

ROCKET PROPULSION

that they are driven by dysfunction of deep brain regions that are challenging to access. Many psychiatric problems such as depression, anxiety and addiction are caused by malfunction of brain circuits. This project is an example of our mission to understand how these neural circuits are dysregulated and to develop novel, circuit-targeted interventions that return the brain to a healthy state.”

Dr. Mark Rapaport, CEO of Huntsman Mental Health Institute, said the research is especially impactful because “it brings together a variety of disciplines to help solve complex problems in mental health.”

The research Mickey and his team are doing is expected to be a three-year project. That would give them the time to show that their device can engage some of the “deep gray areas and alter the symptoms of addiction.” If they can show the initial signals that they can modulate the behavior and brain areas underlying addiction, they would move on to test the effectiveness in a more clinical setting. l

Dr. Brian Mickey, leader of the research team at the University of Utah. (Photo courtesy of Brian Mickey)

Dr. Brian Mickey’s University of Utah research team will use an ultrasound device to modulate deep brain areas to change the symptoms of addiction. (Photo courtesy of Brian Mickey)

Comcast launches epic short film that honors the nation’s fearless airmen

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

For more than 60 years, Comcast has supported the military community through programs, services and resources. Through its Project UP initiative, Comcast will commit $1 million this year to organizations that support veterans in digital skills-building programs, entrepreneurship opportunities and access to technology.

To highlight this commitment, Comcast NBCUniversal and Xfinity launched the short film “The Aviators,” directed by Oscar winner Kathryn Bigelow. The film celebrates the pioneering generation of military aviators and showcases the power of technology that connects people of all ages.

Inspired by the bonds forged among military servicemen, “The Aviators” features true-life Vietnam veterans Cmdr. (Ret.) Jack “Razor” Gillett, Maj. (Ret.) Elester “Hollywood” Latham, Lt. (Ret.) Jim “Zeke” Lloyd, and Lt. (Ret.) Bill “Offender” Moir. Gillet, Lloyd and Moir served with the Gunslingers squadron in the USS Saratoga. The film brought them together for the first time in 16 years.

“It’s a real honor to work with our nation’s veterans,” Bigelow said in a documentary about the short film. “They’re special people who’ve devoted their lives to our security. I feel like it’s my opportunity to give back.”

With the launch of the film in May, Xfinity announced new military benefits that include a $180 virtual prepaid card for military customers to apply to their choice of Xfinity services, one free Xfinity mobile line for one year, and an automatic upgrade to become an Xfinity Diamond Rewards member.

Additionally, the military community can continue to

enjoy specially-priced park tickets and discounted vacation packages at Universal Destinations & Experiences.

Throughout 2024, Comcast will support several military-serving nonprofits advancing digital equity. Key organizations include NPower which provides free training for active-duty members transitioning out of the military; Our Community Salutes which offers high school graduate enlistees connectivity offers and digital equity resources; the Wounded Warrior Project which ensures veterans can access health benefits and career resources online, and Hesperus which donates laptops to Native American veterans participating in the Entrepreneurship Veteran Bootcamp.

“Through our partnership with Comcast, together we are helping address the critical technical training needs of service men and women who are making the transition to

civilian life,” said NPower CEO Bertina Ceccarelli. “By being intentional about the needs of the military community, we can help make that shift more seamless and impactful for individuals and the companies that seek to hire them.”

New Xfinity military offer and NBCUniversal discounts equal more than $700 in savings

Comcast has introduced a portfolio of new Xfinity Military discounts and dedicated offerings to ensure veterans, service members, military spouses and their dependents stay connected to the Xfinity network’s unmatched speed and reliability. For more information on this initiative visit corporate.comcast.com .

Founded by World War II Navy veteran Ralph Roberts, Comcast has hired more than 21,000 veterans, National Guard and reserve service members, and military spouses since 2015.

Deneiva Knight is a former military spouse and U.S. Army Reservist, serving from 1996-2001. Now the external affairs director for the Comcast Mountain West Region, Knight is proud to work for a company that invests in active-duty, transitioning and retired military service members.

“I am proud to work for Comcast,” Knight said, “a company that not only honors its veterans and military-serving employees but creates opportunities to support us at every angle through its benefits structure, career pathways, and community impact initiatives.”

Xfinity presents “The Aviators” on YouTube. l

Comcast NBCUniversal and Xfinity launch the short film “The Aviators,” celebrating the pioneering generation of military aviators and showcasing the power of connective technology. (Photo still from “The Aviators”)

on’t get me wrong. I’m all for men beating each other with sticks but the ice-palooza circus we’ve experienced as the National Hockey League moved a team to Utah has been a bit much.

My sports-crazed husband is in hockey high-heaven, and he’s not alone. The former Arizona Coyotes (but currently unnamed Utah team) was welcomed by a multitude of rabid hockey fans as the team arrived in Salt Lake. The Utah Snow Angels (?) will now undergo a terrifying assimilation into the state’s culture.

Ryan Smith, new owner of the Utah Iceholes (?), spent $1.2 billion to bring the NHL team here and he has Big Plans! Plans that include restructuring a mall to create a hockey training center, reconfiguring the Delta Center so fans can see all the bloody hockey fights and gaining extreme control over three city blocks in downtown Salt Lake, although he promised not to blast the beloved Abravanel Hall to rubble. Yet.

In the ultimate power play, Smith asked lawmakers to contribute another $1 billion to the project, which includes a sales tax increase, so everyone can help finance the Utah Snowplows’ (?) salvation of the state’s pro sports scene.

(Sidenote: Sales tax? Really? Have

Peri Kinder Life and Laughter

Utah’s Miracle on Ice

our lawmakers seen the lines outside of food banks? People can’t afford Cheerios, let alone tickets to a hockey game.)

But it’s not just hockey. Government and business groups are willing to toss billions (BILLIONS) of dollars around to fund baseball stadiums in Daybreak and, potentially, Salt Lake’s west side.

This is a slap-shot to the face for women’s sports in Utah. If we’re going to invest billions, can legislators squeak the wallet open a bit more to give a portion to female teams? A survey showed overwhelming support for a redesign of the current Salt Lake Bees stadium to become a female-focused sports center. Where are the billions of dollars for that project?

Did you know our state has a championship female/non-binary Pro Ultimate Frisbee team, the Utah Wild? We also host the Utah Falconz, part of the Women’s Na-

tional Football Conference. Where do they play? On high school football fields. The only reason the Utah Royal’s soccer team has a beautiful venue is because it was built for Real, a men’s team.

Don’t whine and say, “But nobody cares about women’s sports.” For its opening game this year, the Royals set a record for the highest-attended women’s sporting event in Utah history.

Millions of fans watched the women’s college final as Caitlin Clark played her last game before being drafted into the WNBA with a four-year, $338,000 contract. I’m sure she was offered the same amount as her male counterpart, the first overall draft pick in last year’s NBA.

Record scratch! Hold up! Last year, top draft pick Victor Wembanyama signed a four-year contract with the Spurs worth $55.2 million. Sigh.

Acquiring the Utah Frostbite (?) was a great accomplishment, but the state has a chance to pull off a phenomenal hat trick: develop a hockey fan base, build a baseball utopia and create a haven for women’s sports.

How cool would it be, for a state that ranks last in women’s pay equality, to invest in women’s athletics? What message

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would that send to our daughters and granddaughters?

I don’t know much about hockey but its success shouldn’t come with a sales tax increase, carte blanche control over a key center of downtown or at the expense of women’s sports.

With its shiny new logo and sparkly Zambonis, the Utah Windchill (?) could have a great first season as fans get behind them. But don’t be fooled. Hockey isn’t the only game in town.

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