July 2021 | Vol. 17 Iss. 07
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THE MYSTERY OF GRANDMA PAT (SOMEWHAT) REVEALED By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
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oward the beginning of the pandemic, Cottonwood Heights residents were finding packaged homemade loaves of bread on their front porches signed from Grandma Pat. As everyone was stuck at home, it soon became the scuttlebutt of the city that a mysterious anonymous grandma was delivering homemade bread to various families. Grandma Pat became such a phenomenon in the city’s mythos that she even became a verb. Many were posting in various resident groups about how they got “Grandma Pat-ed.” Some of the first reports of gifted bread began in September last year. “I was blessed by Grandma Pat today! I’ve seen other posts about this beautiful mystery woman delivering baked goods to others in our neighborhood,” wrote Michelle Pickering on Facebook. Grandma Pat ramped up her bread production during the holidays of 2020. “She has made almost 600 loaves of bread since COVID-19 started,” wrote Kim Thomas on Nextdoor in November. To add to the mystery, residents began posting about how ninja-like Grandma Pat was. She was quick when doorbell ditching residents only to leave loaves of bread. “Grandma Pat is stealthy! How did you get past our Ring camera?!” posted Rhonda Roth on Nextdoor. Residents have been wondering who this elusive Grandma Pat is. “I keep reading about Grandma Pat—who is she, why does she do this, how long has it been going on, has she lived in CH forever?” asked Michele Belmore on Nextdoor. (As per Grandma Pat’s request, her name will remain anonymous.) The woman behind Grandma Pat is an 85-year-old widow who lives within the area. A few years ago, she decided to serve a senior service mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She was only a few months into her missionary work when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. As the world was forced to stay at home and work remotely, so were the
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Grandma Pat’s wheat bread marks a special occasion to make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for many residents. (Cassie Goff/City Journals)
missionaries. Many turned to Facebook groups and other sources of connecting with people via the internet. Grandma Pat tried her best with the new medium of missionary work. However, since she was not living with a household of female companions as most of the full-time missionaries were, she found missionary work online to be a struggle.
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“I’m not very good with technology. I was calling my mission companion daily,” Grandma Pat said. Instead, she decided to turn to the vintage technology of telephones. She began making phone calls in attempts to continue her missionary work. However, she soon found that to be difficult as well. “People don’t answer their Continued page 2
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When we returned home from the vet after receiving the news of her health, on our porch was a wonderful loaf of bread and message of hope from Grandma Pat,” wrote Janalee Hallmark on Nextdoor. “I feel so much gratitude as I’ve been feeling sad for two days missing my parents on the East Coast with no travel advised. My heart is full now, this completely cheered me up. Thank you Grandma Pat!” said Barbara Dodson on Facebook. And the best part? The bread is extremely tasty. Many who have received her bread have commented on how good it tastes, reporting making sandwiches and eating it with honey or butter. A resident baker even posted about how perfect the loaf of bread was. Grandma Pat doesn’t necessarily always single out residents who are going through a hard time. Instead, she has a plan to make her way through the surrounding area, including some areas outside of Cottonwood Heights. She stops at houses that feel right to her. The people who receive her bread are often random. She intends to keep making her way through the city, as she has a few neighborhoods left. Then she’ll start heading south. Her giving extends to all. “It doesn’t matter if you’re Christian, LDS, or atheist. You know why?” Grandma Pat asked. “Because you’re a human. We are all human.” l
phones when there’s a number they don’t recognize,” she explained. Eventually, she figured out a creative way to continue her missionary work. She had been baking bread during the pandemic as something to do to fill the time but she soon realized “it was a calling from the Lord,” she said. She was able to find stickers and printouts of Christian sayings and teachings. She decided to package her homemade bread with some of these stickers (and the handwritten message “Blessings to you!”) and deliver them throughout the area. She said that she thought to herself, “At least I can get some of the teachings out.” And while she knows some people would throw out the bread, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic happening, she didn’t care because she didn’t have to see that. She began baking one loaf of bread per day, five days per week. Now as her mission is concluding and the end of the pandemic is in sight, she bakes one loaf of bread three to four times per week. “It was a hard mission because I had to stay at home,” she said. “I didn’t know how to reach people.” Even though she will have completed her missionary work, she intends to continue Grandma Pat-ing people within the area. Her intentions are simple: “I do it to bring joy into the world. I like seeing people happy,” she said. Grandma Pat recounted an example of a time a resident told her that her loaf of bread brought some happiness into their life. “I brought a loaf of bread to a house that had a Utah Disaster Kleenup truck in front of it. They said it had been one of the hardest days of their life” but Grandma Pat’s bread had made their day. Many other residents have shared stories about how Grandma Pat’s bread was received during some difficult times, expressing gratitude and wishing to thank the local Samaritan. “My grandmothers and mother have passed and I missed them yesterday. To find your bread made with love was the best sur- Grandma Pat always signed her gifts with “Blessings prise,” said Hilary Ripley on Nextdoor. to You!” (Cassie Goff/City Journals) “Our sweet doggie was buried today.
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July 2021 | Page 3
Mayor nominated for Community Champion By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
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his month’s Cottonwood Heights Community Champion is Mayor Mike Peterson. Peterson was nominated for his dedication to public service, commitment to listening to resident voices, passion for city events and community parks and trails, and joy of meeting with individuals. “Mayor Peterson has championed so many important causes, but his dedication to parks and recreation is something that benefits each and every resident of our community,” wrote Samantha DeSeelhorst for Peterson’s nomination. “He has been a tire-
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less champion in advocating for local park space through his successful efforts to bring two new parks under city ownership as well as plan a new park and trailhead space near Ferguson Canyon.” “[He] has spent more than 50 years of his life in public service…He is committed to listening to concerns and making sure resident’s voices are heard,” wrote Lindsay Wilcox in a separate nomination. “It’s obviously an honor to be recognized, but even more so for something I enjoy,” Peterson said. “I’ve enjoyed the many
opportunities I’ve had to champion my true passion which is the area of parks and recreation.” Peterson previously worked for 40 years with Salt Lake County’s Park and Recreation services. He then spent 10 years working as the Executive Director for the Cottonwood Heights Parks and Recreation Service Area before serving as a councilmember for the City of Cottonwood Heights. He now serves as mayor. “I know it sounds cliché, but serving as mayor, a city councilmember, or as Parks and
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Willow Canyon second-grader wins national Reflections, wants to win ‘America’s Got Talent’ By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
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Willow Canyon second-grader has big dreams. “I want to be on ‘America’s Got Talent’ so badly. I hope to get the Golden Buzzer when I go.” Don’t count out India Boyé to accomplish that goal. The second-grader recently won the national Reflections award in music for her entry, “Indi-rap;” it was her first time entering the PTA contest that has more than 300,000 students in pre-K through grade 12 annually create original works of art in response to a student-selected theme. “My dad said (maybe I can be on it) when I’m older,” she added about the TV show that scouts for talent. Her dad, Alex Boyé, is an accomplished British-American musician of his own right and performed on the show, but India wrote and performed this song on her own; it’s a rap about herself and her family. “I made this song actually up and it was really fun. It’s what my whole life is about. It says my mom is white and my dad is brown, so I might talk to you about my family and how my life and everything like that and I’m doing compliments and I matter because I matter,” she said, tying the song into the Reflections theme: “I matter because….” “I just love making stuff up. It’s really fun to make up a song.” Her mother, Julie, who also sings in a harmony group, adds: “India always beatboxes around the house. She raps all the time with things on YouTube and things she sees on, well, just bloggers she watches and commercials she hears. She loves the rhyme and makes harmony. It’s a little skill that not many her age have. This girl is a spitfire and has a huge personality and is just not afraid to talk about it.” India wasn’t alone in her talent as one brother entered visual art and another made a film to enter in the school Reflections contest. However, India is the only Willow Canyon state winner, her principal Marilyn Williams said. “We had a celebration in her class; her parents participated virtually,” Williams said. “Our PTA gave her flowers, a treat and a trophy. She performed the rap for us in class when we were celebrating. It’s a very inspirational rap about equity and family— amazing insight for a second-grade student. We are very proud of India.” India said she was excited, yet uneasy about performing her song in front of her class. “It was kind of embarrassing, but really fun. It was scary; I was just kind of nervous. I’ve only done it in front of my grandpa and grandma and my family before,” she said, adding, “But I sing it every day.” However, she has cherished her award.
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“It’s my first trophy. I just think what happy memories it’s given me, and I was like, ‘oh my gosh’ when they came in to school and everything was so much fun,” India said. She also was honored in the Old Dome Meeting Hall in Riverton on May 11 along with other state award winners. Along with India, Canyons School District had several students honored at state including Hillcrest High’s Haley Fries, who won the photography category and Amber Parker, who received an honorable mention for literature; Corner Canyon’s Isablla Pulley, who received an award of merit in photography; Brighton High’s Andrew Jensen received an honorable mention for 3D art; Butler Middle’s Makella Wright, who received an award of merit for dance; Draper Park’s Max Stephens, who received an honorable mention for music and Asia Olcott, who received an award of merit for visual arts and for 3D art; Midvale Middle’s Ava Townsend who received an award of merit for visual arts; Altara Elementary’s Nazareth Diaz received an honorable mention for dance; Quail Hollow’s Evelyn Boardman received an honorable mention for music; Butler Elementary’s Lydia Jensen received an honorable mention for photography and Dakota Brown received an honorable mention for 3D art; Brookwood’s Judd Pohlman received an award of merit for 3D art; Oak Hollow’s Adalyn Olcott received an honorable mention for 3D art; Lone Peak’s Sawyer Arnold received an award of merit for visual arts; and Sunrise’s Scarlett De Agostini received an honorable mention for visual arts. PTA Region 17 director Terri Francis said that typically Canyons District does well in Reflections. “I’m always extremely impressed with the originality of ideas students come up with that tie into the theme,” she said. “We have some pretty talented kids, and the number of entries was 19% higher than usual. I think the online submission made it easier for students to do it on their own and families to submit them.” Haley’s state-winning photograph is of a row of green chrysalises, with one black, ready to emerge into a butterfly, she said. The Hillcrest High student compared that chrysalis with herself: “There was only one and that only one is of me.” Haley said that she and her mother were walking around a garden when she saw it and thought it would make a good Reflections entry. “I really like to play with perspective in my photo and I saw it and I was like, that would be a really good photo and a really good representation,” she said. This was Haley’s first time entering Re-
Willow Canyon second-grader India Boyé (center) doesn’t need “America’s Got Talent;” she recently was awarded the top prize at the national Reflections award in music for her entry, “Indi-rap.” (Photo courtesy of Julie Boyé)
flections; she studied online this past year. It was through a PTA email as well as the school website posting results that she found out that she won. “I think it’s crazy; I didn’t think I’d make it this far,” she said. “It was like really unexpected.” India placed her state trophy alongside some medals she received in gymnastics— and now, her silver medal for winning national Reflections. For winning nationals, she also will receive a certificate, a $200 Young Artist Scholarship, and have her work featured in the traveling exhibition.
Singing for a talent show isn’t the only thing India wants to do so maybe television baking contestants should be wary. “I want to bake at my house, but not actually as a job—and I want to sing,” she said. Then, she continued. “I’m wanting to do Reflections again for sure. I really like to sing, and I do it a lot. I’m wanting to do another rap. My dad, I like doing harmonies with him too,” India said, adding that she may ask him to record with her next as they recently sang a song together. “I don’t know what it’s called, but it goes: ‘We like to cherish these days.’ l
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July 2021 | Page 5
Alta dance teacher captures Canyons District’s teacher of the year title at pinnacle of 30-year career By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
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hen Traci Raymond was in high school, she went through a very traumatic experience—so traumatic, she doesn’t want to talk about it. But what she does want to share with others is that her parents stood by her, insisting she go to school and graduate. Raymond not only went to school, but she got involved and became a cheerleader— both in her high school days and now. She didn’t realize the lesson her parents’ instilled in her until she went to college, where she faced other difficult circumstances. Instead of bailing, she decided, “I need to graduate and make a difference for those kids who go through hard situations and think of quitting, I want to be their advocate, to tell them not to quit. They can do hard things and rise above.” That inspiration has guided Raymond into 30 years of teaching and coaching dance and helping high school students believe in themselves and achieve their goals. That attitude was part of Raymond’s nomination for Canyons School District’s teacher of the year award. “Traci Raymond is the epitome of just a phenomenal educator, leader, and mentor of her students,” said Alta High Principal Brian McGill, who performed with the A-town dance company for a school assembly in 2018. “She is a great example of the kind of teacher who should be in the classroom, as well as a mentor for students outside of the classroom.” Raymond’s colleague, ballroom teacher Diana Hunt, said her friend “has a true genuine love for teaching. I know what she can do, and I know what she offers to students. She genuinely cares about them, and she’ll hold them to a higher standard. She encourages them to grow and become a better person, besides a better dancer. She encourages them to do hard things, to buck up and they realize later on, how much they’re grown. So many girls have graduated, and they’ll come back and thank her for understanding, for making them accountable and they’re grateful for making them stronger people.” Raymond, who has taught at Alta High for 27 years and was the school’s nomination for the district award, learned shortly before the announcement that she was a district finalist. “I actually was shocked because typically dance teachers don’t teach the core subjects, so I was actually shocked at it and had no idea that I would be in the top three,” said the one-time recipient of the prestigious Sorenson Legacy Awards for Excellence in Arts Education. At Alta High’s new performing arts center on May 4, the Canyons Board of Education presented all 48 school and program teachers of the year with crystal awards.
Page 6 | July 2021
Then, Raymond was announced the District’s teacher of the year; the other two finalists were Albion Middle math teacher Dan Croshaw, the CSD Middle School Teacher of the Year, and Maria Teresa Gallo, a Silver Mesa Elementary dual-language immersion teacher. She received $1,000 from the Jordan Credit Union for being announced as district’s top teacher. The other two finalists each both received $500. “It’s definitely a surprise. I started sobbing because that was a true shock to me,” Raymond said. Raymond began at Alta as a single mom, teaching drill team for her first six years. “The community, all the drill team parents, would take care of my daughter and watch her when she was about five years old. We had night practices and weekend competitions and they just took me in and loved me like I was part of the community. I think that just started my love for this high school,” she said. But it was that little girl who got her mother’s attention by asking “Mommy, when are you going to spend as much time with me as you do your dancers?” that got Raymond to shift from drill team to dance company, a non-competition team. That little girl, Jerica, who now is 30 and has two young daughters, was by her mother’s side at the awards night. “We’ve been through a lot together,” Raymond said. “If I could say something to my younger self, I would say, allow people to help you. Delegation is probably one of the teacher’s best friends. You do the best job you can, but to the point, if it starts stressing you out too much and it’s affecting you, then you’re doing too much.” To boost positivity with students and herself, Raymond annually includes a theme as a life lesson with her curriculum. “I started out my school year with a theme whether it was resiliency, or you can do hard things or stand up for yourself. I always did an introduction to my class, whether it’s health, aerobics, yoga, dance, dance company. I talk about what my theme for the year is and to have courage, have integrity and just try to teach my students how to be better adults and to trust themselves to get through hard things without shutting down,” she said. This past year’s theme was “you can do hard things” and last year’s was “still I rise,” which came as inspiration during the COVID-19 pandemic. Last March’s soft closure of schools in response to the pandemic hit Alta High’s dance company hard. “On Friday the 13th, we were doing a mock dress rehearsal and I thought, ‘I should probably invite some parents.’ Then, I actu-
Alta High dance teacher Traci Raymond, seen here helping one of her students, recently was named Canyons School District’s teacher of the year. (Photo courtesy of Traci Raymond/Alta High School)
ally had a parent that was coming say, ‘Hey, do you want me to record it. I can bring my camera.’ It ended up that was our concert video,” she said. “For the first two weeks, I kind of let the girls, just breathe. I would check in with them and make sure they were all OK because they were devastated. During our first Zoom meeting about two weeks after that, when we all saw everybody’s faces, everybody started crying. We’d been with each other 24-7 and then, all of a sudden, we’re cut off and told to stay home. I tried to give them hope, but I remember the day when I finally had to say, ‘I’m sorry dancers, we’re not going to do our concert.’” When they returned this year, Raymond acknowledged the difficult ending with her dancers, but she said, “We keep going forward and we remember how we got through that hard time so when we have further hard times, we can rely on that strength that we used for that,” playing right off of her themes for last year and this year. This year, in the school year’s final weeks, she oversaw the dance company show and awards night, which she said was especially rewarding after not holding one last year. The show serves as a fundraiser for the program, typically raising $10,000 during the three performance nights, she said, which has helped when she has taken her company
through the years to New York City, Disneyworld and Disneyland. The school-year themes also played into her own learning as she reached out to others to help her understand how to put her classes on Canvas online teaching platform. “This was my 30th year and I struggled. I thought, how can I make it through this year?’” she said, then reached out to the girls basketball coach, who helped her learn it. “The biggest things that I truly had to learn was that I had to change my mindset. When I got really flustered, I had to say, ‘no, you can do this and just take it one day at a time.’” Another aspect of her teaching she is proud of is cross-curriculum teaching with Advanced Placement art teacher, Katie Campbell. Campbell’s art students would come into Raymond’s Dance Academy class, which is considered an understudy dance class for dance company, and they bring their top artwork for small groups of dancers to interpret. “We start talking about what are some expressive vocabulary words that go along with that picture, and they would come up with what they thought the artist was thinking and seeing in this painting or statue. Then, my dancers would start creating movement and they choreograph about two minutes,” she said. “When we’re ready, the art class will come in and they’re going to
Cottonwood Heights City Journal
say how true they think the movement was to the descriptive words and the theme. After my dancers have said what they thought the theme was, the artist actually gets up and talks about that piece of art.” Raymond also is known to talk to her students individually, offering additional help or time to listen to any concerns. Or if it’s difficulty with a certain move, she has paired beginners or struggling students with those who have more experience. “I’m always trying to find different ways to connect with them and also have them connect with one of my dance company girls because I’m 54 years old and I am not going to do a leap,” she said. “I know these kids are going through so much that I want to help them be successful, but at the same time, I’m not a cuddler. I want them to learn that they have to work and communicate with me to make up a task. I’m more than willing, if you come communicate with me.” Raymond has shared some of her teaching strategies and ideas with Daylin Williams, who recently was hired to teach and advise the dance company and dance academy. Now, at the pinnacle of her career and after seeing the success of her former students who have graduated and become Rockettes or performed in Broadway, Raymond wants to quietly retire and watch her granddaughters’ dance. However, that will have to wait until she has completed her last assign-
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Alta Principal Brian McGill helps his dance teacher Traci Raymond, who was named Canyons School District’s teacher of the year, hold giant cardboard checks totally $1,000. (Photo courtesy of Traci Raymond/Alta High School)
ment—completing an application, writing essays and explaining her teaching philosophy—as a contender for the state teacher of the year. “I love my students; I’m going to just miss their happiness,” she said. “I’m going to miss teaching with some of my best friends and the camaraderie here. I just love all of them. We laugh and sometimes, we cry. I’m a very social person and that’s probably going to be the hardest thing. Maybe having this award is good because it will keep me doing something, this application, so I don’t realize that I’m in retirement right off the bat. But first, I’m going to sleep in and not get up to a 5:15 alarm clock.” l
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July 2021 | Page 7
Cottonwood High’s art collection shows range of talent; began as tribute to former art student By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
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ottonwood High senior Kara Bagley was “really excited” when she learned from her art teacher Glen Fuller that her painting “Ballerina on a Settee” was chosen as the Nancy Rosenblatt Memorial Art Award winner and will become part of the school’s permanent collection. “It’s a great honor; I never thought I’d get this far,” she said. “I’m so grateful for my teacher supporting me. I always wanted a piece to hang in the hallway.” Bagley and classmate senior Cali Colton also were selected as Granite School District Rosenblatt art honorees along with two representatives from other schools and displayed a couple pieces at the district art show. In addition to her ballerina painting, Bagley included a self-portrait she painted in oil, holding rose-tinted glasses. “It’s my favorite since I figured out how to use oil paint,” she said. Colton displayed three pieces—two created in acrylics, an 1800s-style silhouette and a pacemaker tying together art, nature and science; and also, a blue-colored drawing of a classical Greek statue. By being selected as a Rosenblatt artist, it translates to being a “very accomplished artist.” “We take art seriously; they recognize our hard work we put in at school and we want some sort of future involving art,” Colton said. Both girls submitted portfolios for their Advanced Placement art class. Colton has a scholarship to Brigham Young University to pursue a pre-illustration major and Bagley will attend the University of Utah to study both business and art. Colton said the appreciation and education for art she received at Cottonwood is unmatched. “Not a lot of schools value art as much as Cottonwood,” she said. “The administration appreciates what the students and teachers do.” This is apparent as almost every year, there is an administrative purchase—or sometimes a couple—to add to the art collection that numbers more than 200, said Principal Terri Roylance about the collection that is catalogued and securely mounted in the school building. “I believe that it is wonderful to have a history of student artwork in our school; we are very lucky to have such strong teachers and exceptional students,” Roylance said adding that she “agonizes” over which ones to select and makes the decision with other administrators and the art faculty. “It’s a collection where someone can come in and see such great talent of our students.” Although the collection has been proud-
Page 8 | July 2021
ly embraced by administrators, teachers and the student body, it came about through a tragic accident, said Bill Laursen, a retired Cottonwood art teacher who began teaching shortly afterward in 1972. “Between her junior and senior year, a girl was hit by a drunk driver and killed just a few blocks from the school,” he said. “She was an artist, and she was going to be the student director of the yearbook that year. Her family wanted to start a memorial award on her behalf.” According to a Salt Lake Tribune article about the accident, Rosenblatt was an accomplished artist, having displayed her oil and watercolor paintings at the University of Utah. She also was involved in the school, serving as the school’s literary magazine, a member of the ecology club, treasurer of the French Club and was on the stage production crew. A memorial to Rosenblatt along with her photograph is in the hallway, and while none of her artwork is displayed, her legacy is the collection, Laursen said. “It’s her legacy and she never lived to see it, but her family did, and they realize the impact of that,” he said. The Rosenblatt Award is a cash award that is given to an outstanding Cottonwood student in their senior year who plans to pursue an art career. A piece of the winner’s artwork is purchased and added to the Cottonwood Art Collection, he said. “It’s a combination of the art department recommends, and then, the administrators come and voice their opinion and vote for which artists they would like to present or have the award,” he said, adding that students’ artwork is showcased in an annual student art show each spring. “Pretty soon, we had students approach us in the art department (saying) ‘I would like to either gift a piece of artwork to the permanent collection, or have mine considered,’ which we were glad to do. Kids were encouraged to do it in that they could leave something behind, a positive reminder that they were a student at the school and in a lot of ways, it’s like athletics have a lot of trophy cases. For art students, it’s a painting or piece of artwork hanging in the school.” John Fackrell, who worked alongside Laursen for a number of years, said the artwork is more personal than a trophy. “That’s the cool thing about these; it’s not some plastic brass coated thing that no one knows what went into it,” he said. “When you look at a drawing or a painting, and you’re just standing there in awe, you’re saying, ‘a lot went into this’ whether it was with a brush or a pencil. So, to me, that’s unique and that’s not the case with the shape of a cup and it’s not in a case. It’s out there
Cottonwood High senior Kara Bagley’s “Ballerina on a Settee,” seen here on display at Springville Museum of Art, was chosen to become part of Cottonwood High’s permanent art collection. (Photo courtesy of Kara Bagley/Cottonwood High)
for everyone to enjoy.” While Fackrell estimates less than 10% of his former students have a professional art career, he believes art still is a part of their lives. “It’s maybe kind of like professional sports. How many high school baseball players go on to play National League Baseball? I would say under 10% , maybe 5%,” he said. “The rest of them, I’m sure they still love art, and they might dabble in it. It may be a hobby. It might be something that now they collect.” While current students enjoy the artwork that line their school hallways, library and offices, the former teachers—including Fuller, who retired this year—know the collection’s back pieces and the efforts to include diversity in the artwork. “When I walk up and down the hall, I really don’t see the artwork,” Laursen said. “I see the face of the students that did it and I remember them doing every single piece;
I remember its conception and the students who worked on it and how proud they were of their art and how much work they put into it.” He recalled the first award-winner, Shauna Tilly. “That painting that was purchased that first year is still there, of course. It’s a winterscape, an old house out in a snowy field” to an international student from Russia, named Rosana, who “came to the school not speaking a word of English and went around all day with the little red dictionary. She became one of our top artists and her piece is in the collection.” There’s a painting of a child holding a yellow umbrella in the rain by Caroline Lund. “The girl that did that was legally blind; she never learned to drive,” Laursen said. “She danced in the school musical, but she had to be close enough to other dancers so her fingertips could touch them, so she knew where she was in the chorus. When she would work on her project, she was literally Cottonwood High seniors Kara Bagley and Cali three inches away from it. She never told me Colton showcased their artwork as Rosenblatt award that was the situation until I asked her. She winners at the Granite School District’s art show. said it was the only way I can see anything. (Photo courtesy of Kara Bagley/Cottonwood High)
Cottonwood Heights City Journal
She worked so hard; she was not going to be deterred by something so small as blindness.” Then, there’s a colored pencil drawing of a Pontiac convertible hanging across from the theater. “If you look closely, he put some words in the license plate in the front of the car, which was ‘thank you CHS’ because our program meant so much to him; he was such a talented kid,” Laursen said. He remembered Angela Black who created a portrait of three horse heads. “She didn’t want to sell it. She said, ‘This is the best thing I’ve ever done,’” Laursen said. He pointed out to her that thousands of people would see her artwork at the high school. After reconsidering, she allowed the horse artwork to stay at the school and later told him it was the best decision she ever made. Fackrell said that he remembers telling students, “If you’ve done it once, chances are you can do something that good again.” He remembers Liberty Tutafu. “She was Polynesian. She was a great, really, really, good artist. The school purchased her work every year she was there—sophomore, junior and senior.” When considering artwork, the teachers and administrators look for diversity. “I wanted it to be a multicultural situation that students could find something in the artwork that they related to,” Laursen said, using Vinnie Lopez’s picture of a late 1940’s red Cadillac with “a lot of chrome” as an example. “He was in his senior year; he was not getting more motivated as the year drew to a close. I said ‘I’ll make you a deal. You finish this portrait of your Cadillac and you get an A in the class. If you don’t finish it, you get an F.’ It would appeal to many kids who are interested in low-rider cars so
Cottonwood High Art Collection is made up of administrative purchases, donations and Nancy Rosenblatt Memorial Art Award winners, an award made in tribute to a former Cottonwood art student. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
that’s why I wanted Vinnie’s Cadillac to be on the wall, so everybody is included as much as possible.” Fackrell said that as the collection grew and more styles of art was offered in the department, they also looked to include different mediums, such as tile, print, watercolor, oil, splash acrylic, colored pencil, stained glass, collage and others. The dedication of Cottonwood High’s art students goes back to its roots in the 1970s when Laursen took students almost annually to New York City to learn more about the arts. In the 1980s and 1990s, students could letter in art and a framing shop was created to teach students how to professionally frame their artwork. Nowadays, students on the school arts council creates
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opportunities for students to work on their own art projects or be introduced to new mediums, said Anna Hexem, incoming SBO president and arts council member. “The first time I came here before ninth grade, I looked around and said, ‘Holy crap. This is the coolest place.’ It inspired me to do art; I’ve never wanted to leave the art room.’” Laursen remembers seeing younger students after seeing a matinee production of the theater department and watched their teacher point out a piece of artwork of a woman with a scarf holding a rooster and tell them that it was created by a former student at their school. “They couldn’t believe it that one of their own had a piece of artwork hanging on this school wall. I thought, this is where the appreciation comes in, these kids come over at this age and in a few years, they’ll be going to high school and they can see some opportunities and possibilities,” he
In the hallways of Cottonwood High, the school’s permanent art collection, which began in 1972, is appreciated by alumni and current students alike. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
said.
As the collection grew, people began commenting on the artwork, Laursen said. “No one believed that high school students had done it,” he said, adding that not even the students nor the parents realized its value at the time. “I had parents come to parent-teacher conferences or call me and say, ‘I can’t get my kids to come up out of the basement to have dinner. They’re down there working on that artwork all the time.’ So, when I walk up and down the hallways and see this art, I have this feeling of pride of what these kids had accomplished, and they didn’t really realize how good it actually was.” l
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July 2021 | Page 9
Cottonwood student president who has a passion for writing publishes thriller By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
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ometimes students may lose focus, glaze over and let their minds take them elsewhere while a teacher lectures. Cottonwood student body president Anna Hexem admits that is what happened to her while in her eighth-grade Bonneville Junior High math class taught by Brenda Bartunek. “I got a B; math just is not my subject,” she said. But while her mind wondered, she was being productive as she began writing a murder-mystery. “That’s literally when I started writing it. I’ve just been working on it continually since then. Last year, I designed my own cover and I uploaded it to Amazon and got it published myself. It’s been a goal that I’ve had for the past couple years,” Hexem said saying that it dates back to her sixthgrade year when she learned how to write creatively from her Spring Lake teacher, Jay Graft. Her goal was to complete “The Innocence” under pen name Anna Caroline, before her junior year ended, which she did. The teaser of her book says: “Shayne (Luscome) thinks Ruben (James) killed his daughter. Ruben claims he didn't. Shayne gives Ruben 10 days to prove his innocence or he kills Ruben in revenge. The time limit is secret. Ruben doesn't know about it.” This is followed by a direct quote from Ruben, “He blames me for Thalia's (Jefferson) death. He's coming after me.” Hexem said the bottom line is, “He thinks his friend killed her, but he doesn’t have any solid proof. My main character gives his friend 10 days to prove he didn’t kill her
or he’s going to kill him in revenge for killing his kid” and since he’s involved in “a lot of not so good things,” he can’t go to the police. While many writers pen about their own experiences, Hexem did not. “The first half of my book was just kind of improv. Then, I realized I couldn’t improve a whole novel. I made a plan and I finished it,” she said. She did, however, use Cottonwood High student body some names that were familiar president Anna Hexem holds to her such as the main char- the novel she completed after acter although she “twisted his four years of writing. (Photo courtesy of Nanette Hexem) name a little bit.” “His first name was inspired by this kid I didn’t like in elementary. It’s been through a lot of editing, but Shayne was a bad character at first, then I rewrote it and made him the main character and I just kind of stuck with her name,” she said, adding that the real classmate she blocked on social media so he has been unaware that a book character is named after him. A friend since eighth grade came up with the name for the daughter in the book and she acknowledged her in the book. “I have my friends be my beta readers and they gave me
feedback. I’ve done my own everything from the cover design to the actual writing to editing. It’s all been myself,” she said, adding that her aunts only read it after it was published and her mother currently is reading it. “I’ve spent countless hours on this. Writing is my passion. I really love the way English words work and you can put them together and do your own thing.” The book is dedicated to Jennifer Thomas, a friend who she has grown up with and who also enjoys writing; she has “always been super supportive.” Hexem, who also enjoys art and serves on the school’s art council, digitally created the cover on her iPad. “It’s a black background with a red stripe and in a part of the book, Shayne wears a red stripe across a black shirt that he wears as a reminder of Thalia, so I thought it would make a really good cover as it’s a little foreshadowing to the rest of the book,” she said. Hexem’s book is available on Amazon and her English teacher, Lauren Merkley, bought a couple copies and informed her students. Hexem, who is a self-proclaimed “huge reader—I will read anything and everything I can get my hands on” hopes to be able to share her published work with others at libraries once COVID-19 restrictions lift, but in the meantime, she already has begun work on her second book, which will not be a sequel. “The thing about me is I get bored easily, like I can’t handle doing one thing for the rest of my life,” she said. “So, I can’t just stick to one genre. I have this little challenge for myself, and I’ve picked out eight different genres. I’m going to write a book in each of those to see which one I like best.” l
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Page 10 | July 2021
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Beehive ranked best in Utah, Brighton reaches No. 14 By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
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his spring, Beehive Science and Technology Academy burst into the top rankings at No. 1 amongst top-ranked Utah high schools by U.S. News & World Report. Last year, it wasn’t in the top 10. Nationwide, Beehive Academy was ranked in the 98th percentile of all U.S. high schools, ranking 244 out of 17,857. For math and reading performance, Beehive ranked No. 1 in both the U.S. and Utah. “More than 60% of our students participate in the AP program,” Beehive Science and Technology Academy Principal Hanifi Oguz said. “And 57% of our students have already earned college credit by passing one or more AP exams. The U.S. News ranking is a testament to our exceptional faculty and administration, and demonstrates our commitment to academic excellence.” Other area schools placing in the top 20 include Skyline High in Millcreek ranked fourth; American Preparatory Academy-Draper campus #3, seventh; Academy for Math, Engineering and Science in Murray, eighth; Itineris Early College High, West Jordan, 10th; Corner Canyon High, Draper, 12th; Brighton High, Cottonwood Heights, 14th; and Olympus High, Holladay, 18th. U.S. News & World Report reviewed about 24,000 U.S. public high schools of which 162 Utah schools were ranked. Utah students needed to earn a minimum of 24 credits, including at least one applied or advanced language arts credit through a class such as debate or journalism, according to the Utah State Board of Education. The top-ranking high schools had students who demonstrated “outstanding outcomes above expectations in math and reading state assessments, earned qualifying scores in an array of college-level exams, and graduated in high proportions.” The rankings also looked at college readiness, underserved student performance and college curriculum breadth. The top-ranked Beehive Science and Technology Academy was tied for second in the state with its math and reading proficiency rank, and 96% of the students graduate. The charter school enrolls 130 students, grades six through 12, for a student to teacher ratio of 17:1. According to the report, 39% of the students are rated as economically disadvantaged, 38% of students state they’re of minority diversity and 35% are female. The school is eligible for Title I funding. Beehive also is designated by the Utah State Board of Education and the STEM Action Center as a STEM Platinum School and is recognized as an Apple Dis-
CottonwoodHeightsJournal .com
tinguished School. The College Board also awarded Beehive the National AP Female Diversity Award for Computer Science. Skyline ranks 623rd nationally, with its top-ranking factors being second in college readiness and third in college curriculum breath. Of the 2,044 students at the public high school, 70% took at least one AP exam and 57% passed. Ninety-four percent graduate. The student body composition is primarily white, with only 16% stating minority diversity and 10% being economically disadvantaged. Fifty-two percent are female. American Preparatory Academy Draper #3 has a participation rate of Advanced Placement exams at 80%, with 60% passing at least one exam. Eightyeight percent of the students graduate. With a student body of 246, 40% are identified as minorities and 19% as economically disadvantaged. The male to female ratio is 50:50. The charter school serves students between seventh and 12th grades and ranked first in college readiness and college curriculum breath for the state. Nationally, it ranks 968th. AMES, with an enrollment of 484, has a 95% graduation rate. Nationally, it ranks 1,120th. The ninth- though 12thgrade Title I charter school had 65% of the students take at least one AP exam, with 34% passing. Fifty-three percent of the students are identified as minorities, 31% of them are economically disadvantaged. The male to female ratio is 50:50. Itineris has an enrollment of 370, with 96% graduating. The charter school serves 10th through 12th grade, with 45% identified as minority and 27% as economically disadvantaged. Fifty-one percent are female students. The school is eligible for Title I funding. Nationally, it ranks 1,263rd. Corner Canyon has a 62% participation rate in AP coursework and exams, with a 49% passing. Ninety-five percent of the students graduate. Of the 2,022 students, 17% are identified as minorities, 8% as economically disadvantaged, and 47% are female. Fifty-eight percent of Brighton’s 1,921 students took at least one AP exam, with 50% passing. Ninety-three percent of the students graduate. Eighteen percent are identified as minority, 14% are economically disadvantaged, and 47% are female. Ninety-one percent of Olympus High students graduate. Forty percent take at least one AP exam, with 32% passing. The student body composition includes 17% minority, 21% economically disadvantaged, and 51% female. l
Rankings01: Two Beehive Academy students present their dry ice floating bubbles project in the Utah STEM Expo, an event organized by Beehive Academy. (Photo courtesy of Beehive Academy)
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July 2021 | Page 11
Fireworks banned in 95% of Cottonwood Heights By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
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any cities have been increasing firework restrictions as Utah continues to experience extreme drought. The city of Cottonwood Heights previously updated their Firework Restricted Areas map, adding a few more areas to the restricted zones. Unified Fire Authority (UFA) Assistant Fire Chief Riley Pilgrim encouraged the city council to consider implementing even stricter restrictions on fireworks throughout the city. “I felt comfortable these changes were adequate in April,” explained Pilgrim. However, with the circumstances of the drought and ongoing activities this summer, Pilgrim and many other firefighters are concerned about potential problems related to fireworks. Some of the areas added to the Firework Restricted Areas map on May 24 included: a gap between Danish Road and Wasatch Boulevard; the north end of Wasatch Boulevard; some of the neighborhood area surrounding Siesta Drive, Riverwood Drive, and Creek Road; and additional plots of land along Bengal Boulevard. “I’m recommending more stringent restrictions,” Pilgrim urged the council to consider a similar ban to restrict fireworks as far eastward as possible. “There’s a lot of support across the valley to do something like this.” Fire personnel throughout the valley have met with the fire chief and fire marshal,
all of whom are recommending more firework restrictions. “We start having fireworks in these conditions near open space and there’s significant hazard. It makes it really challenging for us to do our job,” Pilgrim said. “The problem will get much worse before it gets better.” Pilgrim informed the city council of an ongoing effort between cities in the area like Salt Lake City, Millcreek, Draper, Sandy and others to push firework restrictions eastward. Salt Lake City has banned everything east of 900 East. Millcreek is proposing to do the same and Holladay plans to follow suit. If the city council implemented Pilgrim’s recommended restrictions, fireworks would be banned in the majority of Cottonwood Heights, expect for the commercial area. “What is defined as a firework?” asked Councilmember Doug Petersen. Based on how a firework is defined within the Firework Restricted Areas map materials, a firework can be anything with an ignition source meaning all ground and aerial fireworks would be banned. Councilmember Christine Mikell asked about how available the UFA resources will be for the Cottonwood Heights area over the July holidays. Councilmember Petersen inquired about the hotshot crews as well. “By July, staff is spread out all over the
place,” Pilgrim said. “The wildland crews get sent all over the nation so we could get a crew from California or Idaho. There are four hotshot crews in Utah. They are a national resource so they may not be here over the holiday.” As Cottonwood Heights implemented a ban on aerial fireworks in 2017 and faced consequences from the Utah State Legislature, the city council asked City Attorney Shane Topham his opinion. He was hesitant. “Whatever happens there will be pushback from various sources,” Topham said. Pilgrim echoed, “There’s an ongoing battle to have more control in our own jurisdiction.” Pilgrim brought up another point the State Legislature will probably have to address this year. Many of the firework vendors received their authorization to set up and sell fireworks earlier in the year. Now, as more and more areas are banned, many of the firework vendors are in restricted zones. Mayor Peterson informed the council he had received an email from 68 homeowners in the city asking them to please ban fireworks and reminded the council of the home that burnt down in the city because of fireworks. “We are in support of moving forward for a special meeting to put a ban on everything east of 1300 East,” Peterson told City
As of June 22, fireworks are banned in 95% of Cottonwood Heights. (Photo courtesy of Cottonwood Heights City)
Manager Tim Tingey. The city council voted to ban all fireworks east of 1300 East (Ordinance 360) through December 2021 during a special meeting on June 21. Fireworks are now banned in 95% of Cottonwood Heights. To check the current Fireworks Restricted Areas map, visit the Cottonwood Heights City website (www.ch.utah.gov) and navigate to the “Community” tab and click the “Maps” link. l
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Page 12 | July 2021
Cottonwood Heights City Journal
Potential lawsuit surrounds gravel pit development By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
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n June 15, the Cottonwood Heights City Council continued their discussions of the proposed drafted Gravel Pit development. After the council mentioned that their vote may be pushed back until August at the earliest, landowners and developers voiced their frustrations. Soon, comments about potential lawsuits were thrown about. During their work session, the city council spent upward of 45 minutes going through a grab bag of concerns and topics related to the proposed gravel pit development. Traffic, road design, light pollution, public safety, sensitive lands, hillside reclamation, trail maintenance, building height (specifically related to the condominium building), and ensuring collaboration with Holladay were all discussed. Mayor Mike Peterson asked the four councilmembers for an appropriate date to vote upon the gravel pit development plan. A few councilmembers asked for more time to fully understand the solutions to their various concerns and to think about the potential of adding language regarding the condominium building to the drafted plan. Peterson and District 4 Councilmember Christine Mikell thought it important to have the entire council present for the vote, which wouldn’t happen until August. After a few mentions of pushing the vote out past the summer months, the landowners began to speak up. They voiced frustrations over this process already taking three years and hoped to have an answer sooner than August. “Folks, you have brought up things we have given detailed presentations on. You have had these things for so very long,” said Tom Henriod from Rockwork Companies. The owner of the gravel pit, Alan Thorpe, addressed the council. “I’ve been wondering for a while why we don’t have
a decision already, when what we are doing is taking an eye sore, something that creates dust, and changing it into what we are posing.” “If we are not voting in a positive way on this, our only option is to go back to what we have always done for 70 years—crush sand and gravel and make concrete. That’s the only thing left for us. That…you know, and then sue all of you, honestly.” “Can you tell me honestly that would ever go back to gravel?” Peterson asked. “Why wouldn’t it? I already have Harper wondering if they can bring all their stuff up. The concrete guy wants to put a plant there,” Thorpe said. “I can’t see any more clear option than we make sand and gravel and have a big battle with you guys, or we produce something far better looking than what you have and make a great tax base.” “Regarding the lawsuit, you have every right,” Peterson said. “You all have had your machines sitting there idle for I don’t know how long and we haven’t gone after you litigiously to move that material or those machines,” Mikell said. Mikell also stressed the importance of maintaining a working partnership. “I think we are working collaboratively with you. This is the first time in a year and a half we have been able to talk about your project. I think it’s in your interest for us to discuss things because we have gotten more comfortable with your project through even this discussion then we ever had. I think having this extra time is only helping you.” “I don’t want to stand here and act like I’m uncooperative like the lady says,” said Thorpe. “We’re out of time. Three years working directly with you guys is long enough. How
AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’
Cottonwood Heights City Councilmembers voiced how they would like the gravel pit landowners to be a better partner in planning their developments. (Cassie Goff/City Journals)
many votes do I need? Are three of you going to be around on July 6?” Councilmember Tali Bruce echoed Mikell’s comment. “I was really excited for this development and to have involvement in the process for this huge asset for the community. That was before it was riddled with fault lines. And tonight speaking with Mike Johnson is the first time I felt remotely comfortable that we are going to adequately address that land mine of fault lines.” Henriod spoke up once more. “We would like you all present (for the vote). We think there’s value in having you all together and getting everyone’s opinions. We have reached out to any of you individually. We would encourage you to reach out to us. You’re certainly hearing some frustration. We don’t want this to go on much longer.” l
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July 2021 | Page 13
Action plan will guide sustainability efforts in three neighboring cities By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
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ottonwood Heights, Holladay and Millcreek will consider adoption of an Interlocal Sustainability Action Plan for the entire area. Associate Planner and Sustainability Analyst Samantha DeSeelhorst has been working on this collaborative document with a focus on sustainability efforts for the cities, businesses and communities. “The purpose of this plan is to coordinate sustainability efforts between the three cities and to clarify sustainability goals for community members,” DeSeelhorst said. Sustainability has been of importance for all three cities in varying capacities previously. “It was a natural collaboration for us to work together,” continued DeSeelhorst. “We have similar demographics and share the same regional amenities.” Since the master plan will be a guiding document for various communities, DeSeelhorst has considered topics of sustainability more broadly. The final document will be an umbrella action plan to be palpable for all cities incorporating the plan. “Even though all three cities are really similar in location, geography and communities, their sustainability needs differ,” DeSeelhorst said, explaining how she asked each city to send a general list of their sustainability concerns. Holladay has a passion for tree preservation, Millcreek a passion for air and water quality, and Cottonwood Heights a passion for
open space. (Interestingly, DeSeelhorst noted that these topics generally align with what each city is known for.) In working through this document, DeSeelhorst reported that there has been a good balance of voices. “Long serving councilmembers with history have been involved along with new members who are just joining.” DeSeelhorst has worked with staff members and elected officials from all three cities to create this document. After much editing and revision based on feedback, the plan has articulated a common direction for sustainability. “We put together a document that can remain consistent for each of the three cities through changes—since change happens all the time with new councilmembers, mayors and staff members,” DeSeelhorst explained. “I’m just so impressed,” said Cottonwood Heights Mayor Mike Peterson. “I remember two years ago when having a sustainability employee was just an idea. I’m pleased with the progress and the whole-team approach.” The Interlocal Sustainability Action Plan is organized into five categories: development, energy use, landscaping, transportation and waste management. It identifies various strategies, policies, and construction techniques for sustainability efforts. It also provides support for sustainability initiatives and provides some roadmaps for such projects. For example, the landscaping section in-
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Cottonwood Height’s priorities for sustainability surround open and green space. (Samantha DeSeelhorst/ Cottonwood Heights)
cludes language for protecting and enhancing tree canopies, implementing xeriscape designs, and encouraging pollinator-friendly plant species. The transportation section includes language for reviewing anti-idling materials and conducting idling audits, considering electric or alternative city fleets, and supporting active transportation. The waste management section includes language for reducing paper waste and food waste, as well as for reuse and recycling initiatives. Language has also been included related to: water conservation resources; site connections for walkability between all areas; supporting energy programs like the Community Renewable Energy Program; diversifying energy supplies; light pollution; requiring developers to include connections for sustainable amenities; encouraging energy saving projects with a community focus; and providing outreach to community members for efforts for their own homes. Now, each city will pass a resolution in support of this master plan. After each city passes the resolution, the Master Plan will serve as a living document guiding sustainability efforts for all cities. Then, each city can chart their own course and implement their own sustainability projects. DeSeelhorst hopes to continue her collaborative work with Cottonwood Heights, Holladay and Millcreek, as well as to open regional dialogues with other neighboring cities. She is excited for the future of sustainability within the area. “The fun part of the project will be seeing the change happen,” she said. “We are leading sustainability efforts among our peers,” said Cottonwood Heights City Councilmember Christine Mikell. “It’s important to look at the work we have done and not just the work we are going to do.” “It’s a joy of a lifetime to do the work I do,” DeSeelhorst said. “I love when people call
As interlocal sustainability efforts are finalized between Cottonwood Heights, Holladay and Millcreek, more interlocal walkable routes will be constructed. (Samantha DeSeelhorst/Cottonwood Heights)
and reach out with questions about sustainability.” DeSeelhorst has also been working on a designated page for sustainability on the city’s website and she shared her excitement about those materials. “There’s a wealth of resources for residents, a specific email to contact for sustainability, and links to guides in English and Spanish. It’s a constant effort to improve the available resources, but I’m proud to see how far we’ve come.” For more information, visit the city’s designated Sustainability page on the city’s website www.cottonwoodheights.utah.gov/community/sustainability l
Cottonwood Heights City Journal
Cottonwood Heights proclaims June 19 as Juneteenth By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
T
he City of Cottonwood Heights formally recognized and celebrated Juneteenth this year with their Juneteenth Proclamation presented during the City Council business session on June 15. Former member of the Cottonwood Heights Historic Committee Jerri Hartwell shared some of the history of black pioneers within the valley before she presented the proclamation. “The history of the black Mormon pioneers mentions three black pioneers who came here with Brigham Young,” Hartwell said. At the time Utah was a slave territory so the black pioneers arrived in (what is now) Utah as colored servants. Hark Lay Wales and Green Flake were among those pioneers. Hark Wales scouted, guarded, worked and served the Brigham Young Vanguard Company and arrived in the Salt Lake Valley in July 1847. “Some say Green Flake drove the wagon of Brigham Young. Some say Brigham Young said, ‘It is enough. This is the right place. Dive on’ to Green Flake,” Hartwell said. Eventually, Flake was given as human tithing to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. “We don’t know if he was the only individual who had that distinction,” Hartwell said. Flake and his wife, Martha Flake, were buried in the Union Pioneer Cemetery (1533 Creek Road) and it’s believed he lived in the area where Trader Joe’s stands now
(6989 S. 1300 East). “I moved to Cottonwood Heights in 1987 and the city has come a long way in racial equality and social justice,” Hartwell said. “This is a huge step in the right direction.” Mayor Mike Peterson presented the formal signed copy of the Juneteenth Proclamation to Hartwell for her keeping. Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger and 2,000 Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas to inform enslaved African Americans that they had been freed. The Emancipation Proclamation had been signed by Abraham Lincoln two years earlier in 1863. June 19, 1865 was the day the last 250,000 enslaved people learned of their freedom. The Cottonwood Heights proclamation read, in part: “Juneteenth, a combination of the words ‘June’ and ‘Nineteenth,’ commemorates those events of June 19, 1865 in the state of Texas, and in 1866 Texans began the celebration of Juneteenth with community events such as parades, cookouts, prayer gatherings, musical performances and historical cultural readings.” Later that same week on June 17, Utah Governor Spencer Cox signed a declaration recognizing June 19 as Juneteenth within the State of Utah. The declaration recognizes cultural celebration but does not designate Juneteenth as a state holiday. Cox will need the State Legislature approval for that.
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As Cottonwood Heights formally recognized Juneteenth, former Historic Committee member Jerri Hartwell shared the stories of the black pioneers within the area. (Cassie Goff/City Journals)
Cox’s declaration came after the United States Senate unanimously approved H.R. 1320 on June 15 to establish Juneteenth (National Independence Day Act) as a federal holiday. The House of Representatives had previously passed the bill, which President Joe Biden signed into law on June 17, and Juneteenth became the 12th federal holiday. l
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Less asphalt, reduced speeds say residents concerned about Wasatch Boulevard expansion By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
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n May 22, a community event was held to raise awareness of the conversations and plans regarding Wasatch Boulevard. The event was coordinated by a nonpartisan grassroots resident organization called Save Not Pave. Save Not Pave aims to preserve the gateway to the Cottonwood Canyons for future generations and maintain the recreational nature, and beauty, of Wasatch Boulevard. “Growth is inevitable,” Save Not Pave cofounder Ellen Birrell said. “It’s about trying to find the acceptable answers.” Save Not Pave encourages practical ski traffic solutions by improving road safety and community connectivity and hopes to “illuminate the basic challenge of a state legislature funding new and bigger UDOT roads at three times the amount that they fund UTA to focus on transit,” said Birrell. For years, a handful of different entities have been squabbling over what to do with Wasatch Boulevard. UDOT and Utah state leaders believe it would be best for Wasatch Boulevard to be the corridor between the canyons and accommodate for growing (ski and recreation) traffic. “UDOT’s insistence on building yet another high volume/high speed arterial to solve future commuting trends only induces
higher use of private vehicles,” Birrell said. Save Not Pave members and other city residents are concerned about UDOT’s current plans to widen the road. “Their plan is to add another car lane on all of our streets. That plan is unsustainable,” Birrell said. “I’ve been working to try to prevent Wasatch Boulevard from being expanded with more lanes,” said resident Jaime Fendler. “We are in favor of improving the road by not necessarily expanding it with more lanes and high speeds.” However, Cottonwood Heights and many city residents do not want to see Wasatch Boulevard become a highway. Instead, residents hope to maintain a more residential character and implement a slower speed limit. Save Not Pave is primarily focused on two key requests. They would like to see the 2.4-mile residential stretch of SR-210 between each canyon have a speed limit of 35 mph. In addition, they are hoping to reduce single vehicle traffic. Save Not Pave is proposing a UTA express bus lane along Highland Drive as a transportation alternative. “We are asking Cottonwood Heights and the Salt Lake County Council to request less asphalt and more transportation alterna-
Residents walked from the parking lot of Big Cottonwood Canyon to Golden Hills Park for an event encouraging better alternative solutions to the design of Wasatch Boulevard. (Photo courtesy of Sherry Baker)
tives,” Birrell said. Figuring out who can make the ultimate decision for Wasatch Boulevard has been tricky. Wasatch Boulevard is a state-
owned road (SR-210) serving as a highway between Big Cottonwood Canyon and Little Cottonwood Canyon, so Utah state leaders and UDOT would like the road widened.
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However, since the portion of Wasatch Boulevard between the canyons resides within the city boundaries of Cottonwood Heights, surrounded by single-family residential neighborhoods, Cottonwood Heights believes the road should maintain a more residential feel. “Residents don’t want fast moving cars in their neighborhoods,” Birrell said. “People are moving to Cottonwood Heights for the quality of life. We love the tranquility within the foothill area.” Birrell mentioned how UDOT’s current plan for Wasatch Boulevard seems inconsistent with their Zero Fatalities campaigns, as they should be considering ways to lower traffic volume and speeds. As part of the Save Not Pave event on May 22, cyclists and pedestrians (many being families with children) travelled from the Big Cottonwood Canyon parking lot along Wasatch Boulevard. The attendees made their way to Golden Hills Park for the rest of the event. Various speakers shared information about some of the organizations that affect the decisions regarding Wasatch Boulevard such as the Salt Lake County Council, Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT), and the Utah State Legislature. Rep. Gay Lynn Bennion, Sen. Kathleen Riebe, Salt Lake County Councilmember Jim Bradley, Cottonwood Heights Mayor Mike Peterson, and Sandy Councilmember
Monica Zoltanski spoke at the event about the importance of better safety. Candidate for Sandy District 6 Aaron Dekeyzer, Wasatch Mountain Club Trail Planning Coordinator Will McCarville, and Save Not Pave founder Birrell also spoke at the event. “We have reason to be optimistic for bettering Salt Lake County,” Birrell said. “People like the foothills. They don’t want noise, pollution and exhaust.” For example, bicyclists and recreationalists frequently enjoy the areas around the Cottonwood Canyons. “Bicycling and running organizations have thrown support behind Save Not Pave.” Save Not Pave is a resident organization with a five-member advisory board. Over the last year, Save Not Pave has posted banners and signs along Wasatch Boulevard, talked to engineers and planners, and hosted events. They even held a few events during the pandemic including hosting public meetings over Zoom. Save Not Pave will continue hosting public events and coordinating efforts in opposition of more asphalt. “We are hoping to see a lot of people participate,” Birrell said. To learn more about Save Not Pave and/or Wasatch Boulevard, sign a petition, or donate to Save Not Pave visit www. savenotpave.org. l
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Memory loss that disrupts daily life may be a symptom of Alzheimmillion people are living er’s 6.2 or another dementia. Alzheimer’s is a brainwith disease that causes 6.2 million people are living with a slow decline in memory, thinking and reasoning skills. There are Alzheimer’s diseaseEvery in the United 10 warning signs and symptoms. individual may experience Alzheimer’s disease in the United one States. or more ofOver these signs in a different degree. If you notice any 34,000 people in Utah of them in yourself or a34,000 loved one,people please see in a doctor. States. Over Utah
alone. This disease kills more people
10 SIGNS OF This disease kills more people alone. each year than breast cancer and ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
eachloss year 1. Memory that than disruptsbreast cancer and prostate cancer combined, and is the daily life prostate cancer combined, and is the 2. Challenges in planning or 4th leading cause of death in Utah. problem solving 4th leading cause of death in Utah. 3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, More than 104,000 people in Utah More than 104,000 people in Utah work or at leisure 6.2for millionsomeone people are living with Alzheimer’s provide living 4. Confusion withunpaid time or care disease in the United States. Over provide unpaid carepeople for insomeone living34,000 place Utah alone. This disease kills withunderstanding Alzheimer’s disease. The impact is 5. Trouble more people each year than breast cancer with Alzheimer’s disease. The impact is visual images and special and prostate cancer combined, and is the widespread and can be devastating to 4th leading cause of death in Utah. relationships widespread and can be devastating to 6. New problems with words families. More than 104,000 people in Utah proin speaking or writing families. vide unpaid care for someone living with 7. Misplacing things and Alzheimer’s disease. The impact is widelosing ability to Forthemore information, aboutto families. spreadto and learn can be devastating For more information, to learn about retrace steps Together we can work to findor a cure support groups or other resources, 8. Decreased or poor and ultimately have our first survivor! support groups or other resources, or judgment Join the fight and lend your to to get from helpwork immediately contact thevoice 9. Withdrawal or this critical cause by attending the to get help immediately contact the social activities Walk to End Alzheimer’s this fall. There Alzheimer’s Association’s free 24/7 are eight Walks throughout the state 10. Changes in mood Association’s Alzheimer’s free 24/7 of Utah: and personality Helpline at:
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800-272-3900 800-272-3900 or visit our website at: or visit our website at: www.alz.org/utah www.alz.org/utah For more information or to get help immediately contact the Alzheimer’s Association’s Togetherfree we24/7 can work Together we can work Helpline at:
to find a cure to find a cure and ultimately have our first survivor! 800-272-3900 and ultimately haveRegister our first survivor! at: orJoin visit our thewebsite fight at: and lend yourtoday voice to www.alz.org/Walk Join the fight and lend your voice to www.alz.org/utah this critical cause by attending the this critical cause by attending the uly 2021 | Page 17 Walk to End Alzheimer’s this Jfall. There Walk to End Alzheimer’s this fall. There are eight Walks throughout the state
Twins Jack and Jaimeson Meyer, who are seniors at Waterford, signed their official letters of intent on May 4. (Photo courtesy Mike Meyer)
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hen Jack and Jaimeson Meyer were only freshmen at Waterford, they knew that their lacrosse talents could take them to big places. “The difference in my game from eighth grade to freshman year was insane. I just never expected myself to rise to that level,” Jack said. After seeing their twins succeed at lacrosse, Monique and Mike Meyer began searching for opportunities for Jack and Jaimeson to compete at a higher level. They joined competitive teams in the state and around the country, with Jaimeson competing for the national team. The Meyers knew that if they wanted to play lacrosse at the collegiate level, they needed to stand out. “I did my research and put myself out there. I went to lots of tournaments, played for a lot of private teams,” Jack said. When Jack and Jaimeson started their college searches, they knew they both wanted to attend Service Academies. The Meyers grew up in a family with a rich history in the armed forces. Mike, their father, graduated from the Air Force Academy and then went on to fly F-16s for them. “It's an awesome opportunity. I want to serve my country and so does Jaimeson. Our dad went to the Air Force so he brought that legacy to our
family,” Jack said. Along with Mike’s connection, Monique grew up in a military family. Monique’s father, Joe Mezo, retired as a lieutenant colonel in the Army. He was awarded a Silver Star in Vietnam. “My father was career Army so we have always valued love of country and service to others,” Monique said. After narrowing down his search, Jack then looked at which schools would provide him with the career opportunities he wanted. Jack is hoping to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a pilot with the Air Force or Navy. “First, I looked at their opportunities after graduation. I found awesome opportunities at USMMA. I can go into any of the branches of the military,” Jack said. The United States Merchant Marine Academy is located in Kings Point, New York. Jaimeson, who played basketball for Brighton this past winter, committed to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland the summer before her junior year. As Jack and Jaimeson signed their official letters of intent on May 4 they agreed to live four hours apart for the first time. Although Monique is incredibly proud of them, she admits that letting her only two children leave home at the same time will be tough.
“I will miss them both so much, but I'm so incredibly proud of them and thrilled to see what the future holds for them,” Monique said. Both the Meyers will be entering programs with great legacies. Jaimeson will be playing at the Naval Academy under head coach Cindy Timchal, the winningest coach in women’s lacrosse. Jaimeson is the first Utah lacrosse player, male or female, to be recruited by the United States Naval Academy. Jack will play under coach Tom Gill, who has led the Mariners for the past 30 seasons. Jack cannot wait to learn from the experienced coach Gill. “He’s a really good coach and he has a lot of championships under his belt. I have looked at the team and watched them playing. They are really competitive,” Jack said. Both competed for a state title with the girls team reaching the finals before falling to Park City. Jaimeson came away with an individual award as well named as the inaugural Ms. Lacrosse. The Ravens will be sad to see the talented Meyers leave, but they will be counted among the countless Waterford graduates to excel in college and beyond. l
Cottonwood Heights City Journal
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Cottonwood Heights City Journal
No splishin’ and a-splashin’ if popular Cottonwood Heights water park closes By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
O
n March 17, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox declared a State of Emergency due to drought conditions, as 100% of the state is in a moderate drought category and 90% of the state is experiencing extreme drought. Cox has asked residents and municipalities to consider additional efforts for water conservation. “I ask Utahns to evaluate their water use and find ways to save not only because of the current drought conditions but also because we live in one of the driest states in the nation,” said Cox. Many cities are now considering ways to help the conservation of water during this year’s hot summer. One of the main considerations for Cottonwood Heights will be to conserve water from the Mountview Park Splash Pad (1651 Fort Union Blvd.). “It’s an attractive amenity for children and young families,” said Mayor Mike Peterson. The splash pad had been previously closed due to COVID-19 concerns. On June 15, City Manager Tim Tingey asked the Cottonwood Heights City Council if they would consider keeping the splash pad closed throughout the summer. He mentioned support for keeping the splash pad closed from
the CH2 Committee and Cottonwood Heights Recreation Center. “The heat makes the splash pad attractive,” commented Councilmember Doug Petersen. Tingey mentioned that if the drought gets any worse, Cottonwood Heights would be required to shut down such amenities by the state legislature. Cox is urging municipalities and residents to do anything that can be done now to help prevent shutdowns. “We can look at opening it on a limited basis,” recommended Tingey. “We would be worried about a flood of people hitting it all at the same time,” said Councilmember Petersen. Councilmember Tali Bruce reminded the city council about the COVID-19 concerns which closed the splash pad down originally. “The primary group using the splash pad are not immunized.” Ultimately, the city council decided to pursue a schedule for the splash pad to be open between two and three days per week for a few hour time block. They encouraged Tingey to coordinate with the Recreation Center to see what will best accommodate them. To learn more about drought conditions,
visit the Cottonwood Height’s City website at: www.cottonwoodheights.utah.gov/community/sustainability. l
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The Cottonwood Heights City Council asked for the Cottonwood Heights Recreation Center to dictate the best schedule for the splash pad. (Cassie Goff/ City Journals)
J-01-051
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LIBRARY SUMMER SHORTS * Wednesday at 1 PM in Murray Park Pavilion #2, FREE
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PUBLIC NOTICE “Crown Castle is proposing to replace antennas on an existing 60-foot stealth tower for a new overall height of 61 feet and replace ground-based equipment at the following site: 7069 South Highland Drive, Cottonwood Heights, Salt Lake County, UT 84121 (LAT: 40-37-23.43 N, LONG: 111-4959.88 W). Crown Castle invites comments from any interested party on the impact of the proposed action on any districts, sites, buildings, structures, or objects significant in American history, archaeology, engineering, or culture that are listed or determined eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places and/or specific reason the proposed action may have a significant impact on the quality of the human environment. Specific information regarding the project is available by calling Monica Gambino, 2000 Corporate Drive, Canonsburg, PA 15317, Monica.Gambino@CrownCastle.com, 724416-2516 within 30 days of the date of this publication.”
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This program has received funding support from residents of Salt Lake County, SL County Zoo, Arts and Parks (ZAP), Utah Division of Arts and Museums, and Museums & National Endowment for the Arts.
July 2021 | Page 21
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Cottonwood Heights City Journal
A Series of Unfortunate Events It’s been said that when we make plans, God laughs. Do you think that’s a silly giggle or a maniacal James Bond villain laugh? The last few weeks brought a string of first-world irritations that felt like a game of Whac-a-Mole. I hit one problem and another one popped up. I pound that problem but end up hitting myself in the face with a rubber mallet. I can hear God LOLing from here. Despite our daily devotion to it, our TV stopped working. We shook the remote and pushed buttons as hard as we could, but there was still no picture. Just a dark, mocking abyss. We decided to run away from our responsibilities by driving to Idaho and checking-in at an Airbnb. (The room was nice, but the bed was shaped like a taco. I slept on the couch so I didn’t roll over in the night and suffocate my spouse.) Every 50 years, my husband likes to visit Yellowstone, so we left our Airbnb and drove to the national park to snap pictures of the bison, tiptoe around the geysers and marvel at the wondrous number of people who had the same idea. #HelloCOVID After getting lost in Yellowstone and stopping for Mexican food so we didn’t starve to death, we crossed the Teton Pass just as the sun was setting. Deer lined the road, waiting for the right moment to lunge in front of our car. We’d see their eyes glow-
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ing in the dark, then hit the brakes before driving on. It took us 245 years to get back to our Airbnb. The drive back to Salt Lake the next day was pleasant, except when I had to give my husband the silent treatment because he wouldn’t take me to the Potato Museum (#PotatoIceCream). After we crossed back into Utah, the truck in front of us kicked up a rock that hit the car’s windshield, leaving an extensive and expensive crack across the glass. Used to be, when you broke a windshield, you’d call the junkyard and they’d take a windshield out of a car in their backyard to replace the broken one. Today’s windshield has monitors, antenna and tracking devices, so it’s worth half-a-million dollars, according to the windshield repair shop.
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Why hasn’t Elon Musk created self-healing windshield glass? We made it back home, picked up the dog and gave everyone their Yellowstone golf balls and Idaho potholders. I looked forward to a nice hot shower but (joke’s on us) the hot water heater stopped working and was chuckling with God and the TV. They all had a good laugh together. We forked out more cash so we could have hot water, collapsed into our non-taco bed and slept. A few days later, my husband said, “We have a gas leak in the basement.” It took me a minute to understand what he was saying because he was so calm. My husband is notoriously terrible under stress. “Why are we still in the house?” I asked. “Where else would we be?” He responded. “Not in a house that could explode if we make toast.” We hustled everyone to the neighbor’s lawn until the gas company gave us the okay. The water heater had been installed incorrectly but our house wasn’t going to blow up. Today, at least. I rarely look at the dark side of life and by the end of the week I was chortling right along with God, the TV and the water heater. Sometimes, LOLing is the only thing you can do.
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July 2021 | Vol. 17 Iss. 07
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THE MYSTERY OF GRANDMA PAT (SOMEWHAT) REVEALED By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com
T
oward the beginning of the pandemic, Cottonwood Heights residents were finding packaged homemade loaves of bread on their front porches signed from Grandma Pat. As everyone was stuck at home, it soon became the scuttlebutt of the city that a mysterious anonymous grandma was delivering homemade bread to various families. Grandma Pat became such a phenomenon in the city’s mythos that she even became a verb. Many were posting in various resident groups about how they got “Grandma Pat-ed.” Some of the first reports of gifted bread began in September last year. “I was blessed by Grandma Pat today! I’ve seen other posts about this beautiful mystery woman delivering baked goods to others in our neighborhood,” wrote Michelle Pickering on Facebook. Grandma Pat ramped up her bread production during the holidays of 2020. “She has made almost 600 loaves of bread since COVID-19 started,” wrote Kim Thomas on Nextdoor in November. To add to the mystery, residents began posting about how ninja-like Grandma Pat was. She was quick when doorbell ditching residents only to leave loaves of bread. “Grandma Pat is stealthy! How did you get past our Ring camera?!” posted Rhonda Roth on Nextdoor. Residents have been wondering who this elusive Grandma Pat is. “I keep reading about Grandma Pat—who is she, why does she do this, how long has it been going on, has she lived in CH forever?” asked Michele Belmore on Nextdoor. (As per Grandma Pat’s request, her name will remain anonymous.) The woman behind Grandma Pat is an 85-year-old widow who lives within the area. A few years ago, she decided to serve a senior service mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She was only a few months into her missionary work when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. As the world was forced to stay at home and work remotely, so were the
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Grandma Pat’s wheat bread marks a special occasion to make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for many residents. (Cassie Goff/City Journals)
missionaries. Many turned to Facebook groups and other sources of connecting with people via the internet. Grandma Pat tried her best with the new medium of missionary work. However, since she was not living with a household of female companions as most of the full-time missionaries were, she found missionary work online to be a struggle.
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“I’m not very good with technology. I was calling my mission companion daily,” Grandma Pat said. Instead, she decided to turn to the vintage technology of telephones. She began making phone calls in attempts to continue her missionary work. However, she soon found that to be difficult as well. “People don’t answer their Continued page 2
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