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SKYLINE HIGH ALS STUDENTS OFFER THEATER PERFORMANCE FOR DEAF CHILDREN By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

merican Sign Language students at Skyline High School (3251 East 3760 South) took center stage in January for a unique and inclusive performance geared toward engaging the deaf, deaf-blind and deaf-low vision community. The ASL 3 Honors students presented “Dorothy in Wonderland,” a children’s theater play that combines the characters of “Alice in Wonderland” and “The Wizard of Oz.” Organized by Skyline ASL instructor Jody Tolley, the play is a way to showcase the students’ mastery of ASL while creating a fun environment for children who don’t often get to experience a live performance. “We have done several plays throughout the years, and it’s been a fun thing,” Tolley said. “We have tried to incorporate something like a children’s theater, which has been really fun because we try to get kids to come.” This year, along with students from the deaf community, ASL students decided to invite children from the deaf-blind and deaf-low vision community, which meant ASL students had to learn the production in a whole new way. Tolley challenged her ASL 4 Honors students to reconfigure the play so everyone could enjoy the performance. “My students have not only learned how to perform a play in a second language but also how to make accommodations such as how to run a live-circuit video so those with low vision can have a video held near their eyes to better see the play being signed and how to sign the play one-on-one into the hands of deaf-blind children so they can participate in the play as well,” Tolley said. “I don’t believe any high school has ever done anything like this before.”

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Oath of office

American Sign Language students at Skyline High perform “Dorothy in Wonderland,” a children’s theater play presented to children from the deaf community. (Granite School District)

For this type of performance, the translators reenact the Unfortunately, because of bad weather, the deaf-blind play for someone who can’t see or hear, using ASL to give children couldn’t attend the performance. Tolley said her them information about who’s on stage and what they’re say- ASL students were disappointed but were not discouraged. ing. It’s a more intensive translation than for deaf students. Continued page 6

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Millcreek’s reelected councilmembers sworn in for new term, mayor says he doesn’t plan to run again By Sara Milano | s.milano@mycityjournals.com

n a snowy evening on Jan. 9, three Millcreek City councilmembers were sworn back into office after being re-elected to their positions in two uncontested races and a landslide victory. Mayor Jeff Silvestrini, Councilmember Silvia Catten and Councilmember Cheri Jackson took their oaths of office in Millcreek Common’s new city hall building, where they shared their gratitude for residents’ support and hopes for the future of the city. “I feel really, really lucky to serve this

city…and I really mean this. Millcreek is one of the greatest cities in this country,” Catten told the crowd as she became emotional during her remarks. Both Catten’s District 1 and Silvestrini’s mayoral races were unopposed in a city of over 65,000 residents. Silvestrini expressed his belief that this “reflects a situation where the residents of this community have confidence in what I’ve done and what this council has done over the last seven years.” He also shared that he did not plan to run again once his four year term was up.

Councilmember Silvia Catten takes her oath of office in the new city hall building. (Sara Milano/City Journals)

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Councilmember Jackson defeated opponents Scott Springer and David F. Holz in a landslide victory, capturing 76% of the votes with Springer and Holz receiving 14% and 10% respectively. In her remarks, Jackson said that her fondness toward Millcreek residents has grown while serving the city, sharing, “I’ve really appreciated getting to know my district, getting to know my residents and the many wonderful people who are so passionate about their city.” She also expressed gratitude for her fellow councilmembers, saying,

City deputy recorder Alex Wendt swears in Mayor Jeff Silvestrini in Millcreek’s new city hall building. (Sara Milano/City Journals)

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Councilmember Cheri Jackson is sworn in by city deputy recorder Alex Wendt. (Sara Milano/City Journals)

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“I’ve had many people say that we’re so lucky because we get along, we are friends, and we like to work together.” Mayor Silvestrini shared his pride at the strides the city has made since its incorporation in 2016, explaining that the staff “[set] up a new city from scratch, where we didn’t have money for the first six months and [built] that into the little engine that was able to build this building here…in Millcreek.” l

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Former Olympus Titan leads only woman-owned canyoneering, rock climbing guide service in Zion National Park By Collette Hayes | c.hayes@mycityjournals.com

he only woman-owned canyoneering and rock climbing guide service in the Zion National Park area is a former Olympus High School Titan. With a passion for rock climbing and exploring the outdoors, Gabby Olsen was hired in 2016 as a certified instructor and guide for Rock Odysseys, a guided service specializing in canyoneering and rock climbing adventure trips. Five years later, Olsen stepped in as owner and has grown the company to one of the premier canyoneering and rock climbing guide services in Southern Utah. Olsen grew up hiking, snow skiing, and wakeboarding in Utah with her twin sister Sammy. She began her rock climbing career at Rockreation, a climbing gym previously located in Holladay. After graduating from Olympus High School, she continued her studies at the University of Utah. “I graduated from the University of Utah with a bachelor’s degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism with an emphasis on sustainable tourism,” Olsen said. “Additionally, I received a certificate in Applied Positive Psychology. I feel that my experiences at the U of U helped set me on my current path.” Zion National Park is a popular vacation spot for families from the Salt Lake City area. Rock Odesseys arranges guided canyoneering and rock climbing trips outside the park for ages four to seventy-five. “Rock Odysseys operates in the greater Zion National Park area,” Olsen said. “The park doesn’t allow technical guiding inside its boundaries, but there are so many great locations just outside the park. We operate on public lands for our canyoneering and rock climbing. Locations range from St. George to Dammeron Valley to La Verkin across Zion National Park to Orderville, and south through Hilldale.” Zion National Park is considered one of the most well-known areas worldwide for canyoneering. According to the Rock Odysseys’ website, canyoneering involves exploring slot canyons while hiking, rappelling and down-climbing into areas that otherwise would be inaccessible. “The half-day canyoneering trip is our most popular trip for all ages,” Olsen said. “If you are fit to hike 1 to 2 miles on uneven terrain, then you can make this trip. It involves hiking, scrambling, rappelling and downclimbing through gorgeous water-carved slot canyons. It’s a great trip for families.” Olsen has traveled internationally to pursue rock climbing. Her trips are usually one to two months long and include countries such as Spain, Greece, Thailand and Turkey. Most experienced climbers select a very challenging rock climbing route to master. Although they may fall many times initially, they keep practicing until they memorize the route and can execute it skillfully. Olsen enjoys

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Gabby Olsen is a former Olympus High School Titan and owns Rock Odysseys, a premier canyoneering and rock-climbing guide service located in Southern Utah. (Photo credit Gabby Olsen) Gabby Olsen’s personal goal of climbing at such a challenging level is to push herself while taking care of her body. Another climbing goal is to continue her education through the American Mountain Guides Association. She hopes to obtain her Multipitch Instructor certification within the next five years. (Photo credit Gabby Olsen)

sports climbing. “My most challenging route is a route in a cave in Southern Utah called the Hurricave, a play on the (nearby) town name of Hurricane,” Olsen said. “The route is a steep rock climb in a cave called Joe’s World, graded 5.13b.” A 5.13-grade climb is technical and vertical and considered very difficult. It requires significant natural ability. Olsen’s personal goal of climbing at such a challenging level is to push herself while taking care of her body. Another climbing goal is to continue her education through the American Mountain Guides Association. She hopes to obtain her Multipitch Instructor certification within the next five years. This is an intensive course that requires several weeklong courses and exams. She has completed the first part of the trajectory with her Single Pitch Instructor certification. According to Olsen, climbing has three parts to it. The sport is one-third technical, onethird physical and one-third mental. Climbers need to understand the technical aspect of how to safely tie into and utilize the ropes, including how to safely belay other climbers. A guide is a must to ensure that this is done correctly. The basis of a fun canyoneering or rock-climbing trip is safety. The physical attributes and skill of climbing are primarily in the legs. Balance, stamina, coordination and strength in the lower body play a huge role in climbing success. “When participants climb well, they are driving most of their weight through their legs

Zion National Park is considered one of the most well-known areas worldwide for canyoneering. (Photo credit Gabby Olsen)

Zion National Park is a popular vacation spot for families from the Salt Lake City area. Rock Odysseys arranges guided canyoneering and rock climbing trips outside the park for ages 4 to 75. (Photo credit Gabby Olsen)

as well as using their arms and fingers to hold onto the holds,” Olsen said. “Like with hiking, there are beginner routes through advanced routes. So, if this is your first time climbing, we can put you on a beginner route and work up from there.” Olsen said the most significant challenge of canyoneering and rock climbing is probably the mental aspect of it. Participants need help with trusting the equipment. Once the mental barrier is past, most will do well. Understanding how a backup system works usually alleviates most fears. A second rope is always attached to a person that a guide controls when rappelling, making this sport safer than sports

like snow skiing and river rafting. The backup system prevents a person from falling, making it safer than the perceived danger. Although trips are offered year-round, the best weather for canyoneering and rock climbing in the Zion National Park area is generally from March through November. According to Olsen, the half-day trip to the Kolob Terrace portion of Zion features stunning panoramic views, three parallel slot canyons to explore and multiple rappels. The location has many options for more or less adventurous routes. “Our passion at Rock Odysseys is in the technical world,” Olsen said. “Our half-day canyoneering trip is accessible for anyone, even if they are hesitant. Our certified guides are excellent at tailoring the trip to people’s comfort levels and ensuring they push themselves and also enjoy themselves during their trip.” For more information about canyoneering and rock-climbing guided tours, visit www. rockodysseys.rocks/ or contact Gabby Olsen via email at gabbyjaneolsen@gmail.com l

February 2024 | Page 5

American Sign Language students at Skyline High performed “Dorothy in Wonderland,” a children’s theater play presented to children from the deaf community. (Granite School District)

Continued from front page They had learned new skills and hope to offer future performances to the deaf-blind community. Before Tolley started teaching ASL at Skyline, she taught at the Utah Schools for the Deaf and Blind. When she was hired at Skyline, she only had enough students to fill one class every other day. Now she teaches ASL full time to nearly 200 students, with another part-time ASL instructor taking on more classes.

Tolley said her ASL students will take a lot of lessons away from this experience, including the importance of keeping a good attitude, having effective advertising and enjoying the ride, no matter what happens. “The students said they learned so much, and it was really fun,” she said. “They were like: ‘Even when we close our own eyes, we didn’t think we would understand it. But the most amazing thing is that we could close our eyes, and in our mind’s eye, we could see the sign language.’ They said that was the most surprising thing.” l

MILLCREEK BUSINESS COUNCIL

DAY ON THE HILL Please join the Millcreek Business Council at the State Legislature for a Day on the Hill!

Friday, February 23 | 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM 350 State St, Salt Lake City UT

What: Watch the State House and Senate ﬂoors, hear from Millcreek legislators while enjoying lunch, and take a tour of the capitol.

Tickets: $25

Includes access to event & lunch

Page 6 | February 2024

Millcreek City Journal

Chinese workshop to transform students into artistic wordsmiths By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

hinese art and calligraphy is an art form rooted in tradition and cultural significance. For centuries, Chinese artists have used intricate brushstrokes to catch the essence of nature, history and community. The Salt Lake Eastern Art Club will hold a free six-week Chinese calligraphy and painting workshop at the Millcreek Library ((2266 E. Evergreen Ave.) on six consecutive Wednesdays, starting Feb. 28, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. The course is geared toward K-12 educational professionals but is open to anyone 12 and older. Chinese artist Yanqi Tong leads the painting portion of the workshop that will offer a unique, hands-on experience in the art form. Attendees will learn how to use Chinese ink and brushes to create their own paintings. “All the lines are actually drawn in a particular Chinese black ink. You have to use different grades of blackness, from light black to dark black,” Tong said. “And we use special paper and Chinese brushes. We do the painting, then we add a little bit of color to the painting.” Sponsored by the Utah Division of Arts and Museums Art Education Program, the National Endowment for the Arts, Salt Lake County Libraries and the Millcreek Arts Council, all supplies for the course are paid for and attendees can take their brushes, ink and paper home. Wu Xu, president of the Salt Lake Eastern Art Club, teaches traditional Chinese calligraphy, which coincides with the painting.

She will introduce five basic types of Chinese script. Having an artistic background is helpful but not necessary for enrolling in the workshop, and attendees don’t have to read or speak Chinese. “This Chinese art workshop is mainly to introduce Chinese culture and calligraphy is a written language from an ancient time that’s really deeply connected with Chinese culture,” Xu said. “I will teach calligraphy related to the painting. In Chinese painting, the signature and the title of the artwork are part of the whole art piece. I will teach those characters related to the painting so the student can build calligraphy skills into the painting to promote its meaning.” Although the workshop is focused on art, Xu said there are myriad benefits to learning the practice of calligraphy. The Salt Lake Eastern Art Club is a nonprofit that often goes into schools and senior centers to teach people the value of concentration and meditation the practice of Chinese calligraphy provides. The club can also be found at local events, holding demonstrations or teaching attendees how to write their names in Chinese. “You have to be interested in this kind of art because Chinese painting is a very different type of art,” Tong said. “This way you can learn to appreciate these kinds of artwork.” Space is limited to 12 students at the workshop. K-12 education professionals may receive a certification of completion for future recertification points. To register, visit Events.

Students at the free Chinese painting and calligraphy workshop, held at the Millcreek Library, will learn techniques to create their own Chinese artwork. (Photos courtesy of Wu Xu)

slcolibrary.org. “I want to give credit to the Millcreek Art Council and the Millcreek Library,” Xu said.

“We really appreciate their interest and support.”

Students at the free Chinese painting and calligraphy workshop, held at the Millcreek Library, will learn techniques to create their own Chinese artwork. (Photos courtesy of Wu Xu)

MillcreekJournal .com

February 2024 | Page 7

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Millcreek City Journal

3 reasons to celebrate your birthday By Holly Curby | hello@hollycurby.com

irthdays. The ancient Egyptians initiated them, the Greeks added their flare to them with the radiance of the candle along with its wish, the ancient Romans brought them to the commoner, the Germans added the cake, and even a song was written in the 1800s for the occasion. In America we celebrate them—for ourselves, for celebrities, for our nation—we even designate national holidays for them. There are many cultural differences in how birthdays are celebrated too. From the piñata and high-end quinceanera celebrations in Mexico, the custom of throwing yourself a party in Norway and the Netherlands, celebrating certain years according to the Chinese calendar in China (1st, 10th, 60th, 70th, and 80th birthdays), designating the first slice of cake in honor of the person in the room who is most important in the birthday person’s life as in Brazil, to even measuring one’s life by their kindness vs. years in Bhutan, Birthdays are a celebration of life and love. However, not everyone is into feeling the observation, warmth, and power of celebrating their birthday. To those, might we unwrap a few reminders as to the reasons why birthdays are to be celebrated: 1) Celebrating our day of birth allows us to reflect on life. The good, the bad, the ugly. To see where we've been, and how far we've come. Our trials and our triumphs. Our hills and our valleys. To think of the blessings from within the past year. The accomplishments that have taken place and even some goal setting for the year ahead. Yes to reflect on a life given, a life living, a life still to be lived. 2) Celebrating our day of birth allows us to gather with

others such as our friends, and our family—those who matter to us. This could be a party like often done for kids, or even an opportunity to serve. When my mom turned forty our church congregation came over to our new house to help us lay sod. The pandemic created some unique ways Listen to the full episode on Holly’s of gathering with others Highlights podcast (photo courtesy of for celebrations such as Holly Curby) car parades in front of the birthday person’s home or social distancing BBQs. Oh, the gift of others in our lives. The gift to gather together. 3) Celebrating your day of birth allows you to be reminded that you matter. Not everyone is good about accepting compliments, gifts, or even attention. This one day allows others to do such things for the birthday person who often is a little more receptive to such acts. Whether we realize it or not, we need the encouragement. A perspective shared in the Stanford Daily stated that a birthday is "A celebration of the sacrifices the parents had to work through, up to and including the immense loss of time, energy, and perhaps a career’s forward trajectory." Celebrating our birthday helps us take a moment to reflect on our lives, the sacrifices that have been made on our behalf to get us to where

Birthday celebration (Photo courtesy of Holly Curby)

we are at, and perhaps think of what we may want to accomplish in the year ahead. So, this next birthday, instead of pulling a bah-humbug attitude, might we blow out the candles on our cake, surrounded by loved ones, and press into the unique sense of joy, laughter, and love as your friends and family choose to celebrate you? Want to learn more about intentionally living a life full of purpose? Visit www.HollyCurby.com or check out Holly’s Highlights podcast. Holly’s Highlights podcast is available wherever you listen to podcasts including Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, and even “Alexa, play Holly’s Highlights podcast.”l

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Millcreek City Journal

Exhibit celebrates 100 years of Utah in films By Tom Haraldsen | t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com

n 1923, “The Covered Wagon” became the first-ever motion picture filmed in Utah. It was shot in Circleville. The silent movie was released in 1924, has enjoyed a lifetime box office total of $4 million (mainly through rentals) and still scores a 91 on Rotten Tomatoes. More importantly, it brought Hollywood to Utah, and it’s been here ever since. The Utah Film Commission has opened a new exhibit, “100 Years of Utah Film & Television,” on the fourth floor of the Utah State Capitol, where it will be on display through the end of the year. It’s free to the public. To celebrate, an opening night ceremony was held on Jan. 11 featuring actress Lacey Chabert, writer/producer/director Jerusha Hess, actress/producer/director Amy Redford, executive producer Danny Peykoff and author/film historian James D’Arc. UFC director Virginia Pearce moderated a panel discussion before the exhibit formally opened. Pearce said the exhibit showcases “the breadth of what has happened here,” over 1,000 movies and TV shows shot in the state, not including hundreds of commercials. “Utah started as a very insular, withdrawn society in the pioneer days,” said D’Arc, whose book “When Hollywood Came to Utah” was published in 2019. He is working on a centennial edition for later this year as well. “When the Parry brothers—Chauncey, Caleb and Gronway—opened it up to the Hollywood studios in 1920, they opened up Utah to the world.” He says filmmakers have returned regularly since those early days. Almost every corner of Utah has been featured in Hollywood productions from Cache Valley to Southern Utah. The exhibit has walls covered with posters and photographs from many of those films and includes artifacts such as a John Wayne saddle he called one of his favorites, shoes from “Napoleon Dynamite,” an alien head from “Plan 10 From Outer Space,” and memorabilia from the “High School Musical” movies shot at East High School. There’s a nice tribute to Kevin Bacon’s “Footloose” as well, a movie that really opened the way for contemporary filmmakers to come to the Beehive State. More than 200 episodes of TV’s “Touched by an Angel” were filmed in and around Salt Lake City, Provo and Ogden, along with three seasons of “Promised Land” that was a spinoff from “Touched.” Redford said Utah has “a scrappiness in the way in which you accomplish things in this state.” She has filmed two movies here, and of course her father Robert Redford has been entwined with Utah for many years— from films like “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” and “Jeremiah Johnson” to his Sundance Film Festival, which enjoyed its 40th anniversary this year. Chabert is known as the “Queen of the

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The alien head from “Plan 10 From Outer Space,” with the Utah beehive symbol, is part of the display at the state capitol. (Photo by Roger Tuttle)

From left, actress Lacey Chabert, actress/producer/director Amy Redford, and executive producer Danny Peykoff spoke at the exhibit’s grand opening. (Tom Haraldsen/City Journals)

“The Covered Wagon” was the first movie filmed in Utah, released in 1924. (Photo by Roger Tuttle)

Hallmark” movies since she’s been cast in over 30 of them. Two of those, “Haul Out the Holly” and “Haul Out the Holly: Lit Up,” were filmed in the same cul-de-sac in Salt Lake City. “I love working here in Utah,” she said. “I’ve worked with some of the nicest people I’ve ever met. There’s a collaborative spirit here, a sense of team.” Peykoff is the executive producer for “Horizon: An American Saga,” the Kevin Costner multi-part Western saga that was filmed in southern Utah. Two more parts of that franchise are in the planning stages for filming in the future. The first two films will be released this summer. “Kevin has been scouting locations in Utah since 2006,” he said. “He loves the American West and he has always loved coming to Utah, where of course the first couple of seasons where ‘Yellowstone’ were shot.” Peykoff added that while working on “Horizon,” he and his daughters also dis-

Paul Newman and Katharine Ross (inset photo) filmed “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” in Washington County. (Photo by Roger Tuttle)

covered something else, Utah-based Swig drinks. “I don’t know why I can’t find anything like that in Southern California, but they’re great here.” Just wait, Danny, they’re growing nationwide. Hess and her husband Jared broke into the industry with their blockbuster debut film, ‘Napoleon Dynamite,” shot with a budget of just $200,000, premiering at the Sundance Film Festival and going on to earn a $44 million box office and become a cult classic. Since then, the Hess’ have written and produced a number of films, Jerusha helming “Austenland” with Keri Russell, Jennifer Coolidge and Jane Seymour in 2013. “We always have about a dozen ideas for films floating around in our heads,” Hess said. “We love working here and can’t wait to film here again.”

The film commission said over the past decade, more than $600 million has come into the state from film productions, and 36,000 jobs have been created worth $1.5 billion in wages. Utah tourism estimates almost $44 million went to businesses and for wages in rural Utah for one 2022 film (the name was not disclosed). D’Arc said that for the most part, the locals who’ve been involved in the film industry as it’s come to Utah—from extras to crew members to merchants and hospitality hosts—have said the same thing about the days when Hollywood comes to town “All they take are pictures,” he said, “and all they leave is money.” l

February 2024 | Page 11

Zions Bank economist pegs 2024 recession chances at 50-50 By Brice Wallace | Salt Lake Business Journal

he economic forecasting season has begun, and Robert Spendlove has thrown out the first pitch. At the recent Zions Bank 2024 economic outlook event, the bank’s senior economist pegged the chances of a national recession this year at 50-50 but added that Utah likely would get through it OK. “I’ll tell you that that has been the thing that has gotten a lot of economists scratching their heads, because we all thought it was going to happen in 2023 and it didn’t happen,” Spendlove said at the event, held at the Zions Technology Center in Midvale. “I still think there’s about a 50% chance. A few months ago, six months ago, it was at closer to 65, 70%, so I do think that probability of recession has gone down, but there still are some of those factors that could tip the U.S. into a recession nationally. I think locally we are part of the national economy so we are exposed to that risk, but I think we’re well-positioned and if we do go into a recession, I think we’re in a good position.” Utah has been in a “good position” for several years now. Spendlove cited some U.S. News & World Report rankings showing Utah as the best state overall, topics in fiscal stability and the economy. Its population continues to grow, fueled by in-migration. It’s second among states with positive job growth since before the COVID pandemic, and its unemployment rate of 2.8% remains low. Utah also has seen its labor participation rate increase. However, housing affordability remains a bugaboo. Utah home prices relative to household income sits at 6.2 but should be about 3, he said. “What this is saying is, housing is too unaffordable in Utah,” Spendlove said. “Housing is very difficult, especially for low-income, especially for young families, people trying to get in. And how do you fix that? You essentially need to dramatically drop house prices, you need to dramatically increase income or you need to start thinking outside the box of what housing looks like. What we’re going to see is more multigenerational households, more multifamily households, and we’re going to have to start talking very seriously about thinking of different ways of what housing looks like in our communities.” Prefacing Spendlove’s presentation, Scott Anderson, Zions Bank’s president and CEO, likewise had an overall positive outlook for Utah’s economy this year. “As we head into 2024, our Utah economy remains strong and resilient,” Anderson said. “We continue to benefit from strong population growth and net in-migration, low unemployment and solid job growth. I’m confident that what we’ll see here in Utah will be a strong economy this year and that we’ll continue to thrive, even though other parts of the world and other parts of the U.S. economy may suffer a bit.” Most of Spendlove’s remarks focused on the national economy, which he said is still being distorted by the effects of the COVID pandemic. That is leading to a lot of economic uncertainty for 2024, just as it affected 2023. Last year, experts expected the economy to slow or contract, with a drop in GDP and employment demand. “We saw a little bit of that, but the economy ended up being very resilient and very strong,” he said. “We saw inflation has been coming down, employment has been improving, but people are still grumpy. That is one of the things that I hear all the time, is people say, ‘Well, you know, yes, things may be a little bit better, but they’re not the way they should be and they’re not the way they were

Page 12 | February 2024

As we head into 2024, our Utah economy remains strong and resilient. We continue to benefit from strong population growth and net in-migration, low unemployment and solid job growth. I’m confident that what we’ll see here in Utah will be a strong economy this year and that we’ll continue to thrive, even though other parts of the world and other parts of the U.S. economy may suffer a bit. Scott Anderson Zions Bank’s president and CEO before.’” GDP in the third quarter actually jumped, with 4.9% growth, but Spendlove told the audience that that is not an accurate reflection of what is happening in the economy. “I don’t think any of you think that the economy dramatically accelerated in the third quarter, but it’s some of those distortions from the pandemic that we have to be really careful about,” he said. “However, it’s very clear that we didn’t contract. In the third quarter, we didn’t contract in 2023, and this is a sign that the economy is much more resilient than we had expected in 2023.” Still, the economy could enter a recession in the second or third quarters this year, but he believes it would be relatively mild “and we’ll move through pretty quickly.” The big question is whether any “black swan” events— huge, upsetting surprises—would shock the system and amplify volatility. Nonetheless, consumer spending, which accounts for two-thirds of the economy, remains strong. Consumers “are all grumpy but you’re still spending,” he said. “That has been another one of the big surprises, is even with consumers being grumpy— you all went out and bought your Black Friday gifts and you all went out and got holiday presents for everyone and it kept the economy going—but you still are grouchy.” Spendlove foresees Federal Reserve interest rate cuts this year, inflation continuing to slow but remaining “sticky,” the labor market growing, unemployment increasing, the economy slowing but remaining broadly resilient, and international uncertainty and elections pos-

Zions Bank senior economist Robert Spendlove speaks in West Valley City at a recent ChamberWest event. (John Rogers/Salt Lake Business Journal)

sibly adding to volatility. Anderson likened the past three years to a roller coaster ride but added that the national economy in 2023 transitioned toward pre-pandemic norms. The Fed raised interest rates and tightened monetary policy, but the economy avoided a recession and remained resilient, he said. The Fed now figures to lower rates, with the first reduction as early as the second quarter. “And why would they do this? I believe that they looked at inflation and they saw that it had dropped dramatically from mid-2022 and where it fell from a 40-year high of more than 9% in June of 2022 to about 3% in November of 2023. But with food and energy prices coming down, getting to the Fed’s target of a 2% annual inflation rate could take some time. We’re not there yet.” Higher interest rates and housing inflation colored consumer opinions about the economy in 2023, but recent consumer surveys have found that people are feeling more optimistic about 2024, he said. “And this is important,” Anderson said, “as consumer sentiments can drive behaviors like spending and investments, often acting as a self-fulfilling prophecy.” l

Millcreek City Journal

Government needs your voice! Here’s how you can get involved

ast month, I had the pleasure of attending several swearing-in ceremonies for newly elected city officials in my district. I watched individuals of various ages, demographics and backgrounds take an oath of office and assume the role of public servants. I couldn’t help but think this is exactly what our Founding Fathers envisioned—a government by and for the people, accessible to those willing to serve and citizens who can select leaders representing their interests. In almost every ceremony, these elected officials thanked supporters who knocked on doors, distributed fliers, hung signs and helped get out the vote. I was humbled thinking about the same support I have received over the years. As Utahns, our engagement doesn’t need to end at the ballot box. There are countless ways that we can continue to help influence decisions to reflect our interests and values. What can you do to stay involved and ensure your voice gets heard? Here are five easy things to remember. 1) Remember, local is where it’s at Local government impacts our daily lives much more than at the national level. Getting involved locally is the most effective way to maintain our quality of life. The good news? Local issues are rarely overly partisan and tend to be less divisive and contentious. 2) Stay informed

Aimee Winder Newton

Salt Lake County Councilwoman| District 3

Take the time to learn about the issues in your area. The more you know, the more empowered you will be to start meaningful discussions, contribute to healthy debate and offer solutions. 3) Connect with your elected officials Easily locate email addresses and phone numbers on your city or county websites. Don’t know who your state representatives are? Visit le.utah.gov, where user-friendly tools will help you find your representatives' names and contact information. Connecting with your leaders on social media is also a great way to learn about their priorities and a convenient forum to ask questions and share your concerns. Just a friendly reminder to keep it civil! 4) Attend city and county meetings City Council, County Council Meetings and Board of Education Meetings are open to the public. Attendance is a great way to learn

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how local government functions and may give you a chance for your representatives to get to know you. Are you concerned about what is happening in your schools? Listening in at a school board meeting is a great place to start. Are you worried about how your tax dollars impact roads or public safety? Your city and county’s websites will post the agendas and schedules for all future meetings. 5) Learn the process and use your voice Did you know that most legislative bills start as an idea from a concerned citizen?

Learning about how the legislative process works will help you feel more connected so that you will know who to contact if you have an idea for improvements. Who knows, your idea might turn into a bill that could eventually become a law. Utah is an amazing place to live and we have amazing leaders representing us at all levels of government. Stay engaged and remember, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead.

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eborah Veater thought 2024 would be the year she could finally relax and retire. Veater taught music for decades and stepped down as assistant director at the Seasons Chorale (part of SoJo Choral Arts) in 2023. But after attending the Gather Conference in Provo, she realized a new career was just beginning. The Gather Conference is an event for LGBTQ+ members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the people who love them. Its mission is to create an environment of hope and support in a Christbased community. “I went to the conference, walked in the door and felt a spirit like I’ve never felt before,” Veater said. “It was so strong. It was a spirit of acceptance. We were all there together, whether we were LGBTQ family or friends or church leaders or whatever. And we were all there to talk about how we can nurture each other.” On her way home from the conference, the idea hit her like a brick: she needed to create an LGBTQ-friendly auditioned choir and call it Vocal Tapestry. It would bring people together with the desire to uplift and create harmony. She wanted the choir to be a sanctuary where everyone felt included and individuals are celebrated. The concept is dear to her heart as her son is gay. She remembers the heartbreaking conversation with him that started with, “If I am gay, will you still love me?” His question shattered her. She thought about the Madrigal students she’d worked with at Bingham High School who told her they were LGBTQ+ and afraid to come out to their families. She thought of the young people who died from suicide because of the fear involved with their sexual or gender identity. She knew she had to be a voice of love and Vocal Tapestry was a way to begin. “I feel like the purpose in my doing music all these years has been to love the individ-

ual,” Veater said. “My goal is to love them and take care of them and make sure they don’t turn suicidal. I want to make sure that they know that someone is going to be there for them and that there is light in this world.” Veater has scheduled auditions and rehearsals to be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building at 1244 W. Chavez Drive in South Jordan. She’s looking for singers who can read music and perform a cappella. She’s also auditioning musicians, including guitarists and drummers, to accompany the choir. Introduction meetings will be held on Feb. 8, 15 and 22 at 7 p.m. Rehearsals will be held at the same location on Thursdays from 7 to 9 p.m. She understands members of the LGBTQ+ community might have a difficult time auditioning and rehearsing at an LDS church, but she asks them to put their reservations aside in order to give the group a chance to flourish. “I am a strong member of the church and yet I have a view of the LGBTQ community that is inclusive,” Veater said. “I want them to see that they can come and know that they’re cared about. It will be a safe place.” For more information, visit Vocal Tapestry Utah on Facebook. l

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Lady Titans inching up league standings in girls basketball By Josh McFadden | j.mcfadden@mycityjournals.com

n a competitive Region 6, the Olympus girls basketball team is in a good sort a little more than halfway through the league portion of the season. Heading into their final game in January, the Titans were 5-2 in Region 6 games and 9-8 overall. Last season, Olympus shared the league championship with Highland. The Titans have some work to do to repeat as champions, as they were two games out of first place with five more contests to go. Olympus is 13th in the RPI rankings. The Titans have been in just about every kind of game you can have so far in region play. Olympus blew out Highland at home, 66-39, on Jan. 3 and also trounced East in a Jan. 19 home game, 80-44. The Titans also had a close victory at home against Brighton on Jan. 12, prevailing 61-57. The team’s two league defeats came at West on Jan. 5, 84-74, and against Alta at home, 60-48 on Jan. 16. Olympus also beat Skyline on Jan. 23, 48-41 on the road. And at Highland 4435 on Jan. 26. Olympus has mostly been strong on defense, allowing under 50 points five teams in region play and nine times overall this season. Offensively, the Titans have eclipsed the 60-point mark four times, each in region play. The duo of Joss Baker and Keily Trabanino has been tough for opposing teams to handle.

Baker, a junior forward/guard, averages 15 points and 9.7 rebounds a game, leading the team in both categories. Her season-high in points is 22, which she achieved in the win over East on Jan. 12. She pulled down a season-best 13 rebounds on three different occasions. Through 17 games, she had recorded 10 double-doubles. Trabanino, a senior guard, scores 14.7 points an outing and leads the team with two assists and three steals per game. Trabanino scored at least 12 points in all but two of the team’s first 17 games. Her season-high in points was 23 against East. Though Baker and Trabanino has paced the Titans and been leaders on the court, others have contributed to the team’s success. Junior guard Tessa Cromar has been solid this season, averaging 6.3 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game. Senior forward Chole Bontempo scores 4.3 points and collects 3.4 rebounds an outing. Lily Sith, Adee Shimoda and Tatum Harrison have also given the Titans and head coach Whitney Jenkins valuable minutes on the floor. Though still in contention for another region title, Olympus is working to improve its RPI for a good playoff seed. The Class 5A state tournament will begin Feb. 20. Olympus’ last regular-season game is Feb. 16 at home against Skyline. l

Keily Trabanino, a senior guard, scores 14.7 points an outing and leads the team with two assists and three steals per game. (Bryan Byerly-BB Sports Pics)

As usual, Olympus boys basketball causing opponents trouble By Josh McFadden | j.mcfadden@mycityjournals.com

s one of the state’s most consistent, successful boys basketball programs, the Olympus Titans are having another solid season. Olympus won five of its first seven games in Region 6 and were 15-3 overall at that point. The Titans are used to winning region titles but are looking up in the standings to defending Class 5A champion Alta, which beat Olympus 56-45 on Jan. 16. The season’s most important games— the state tournament—are coming up. To prepare for state, the Titans will look to maintain their RPI, which currently sits at No. 2. A win over Alta in the teams’ next meeting, at Olympus on Feb. 9, could lift the Titans to No. 1. Olympus also suffered a setback at Highland in the Jan. 3 region opener. The surprising 69-68 loss came in overtime. However, Olympus got revenge in a big way when the two teams met again on Jan. 26. This time playing on the Titans’ home court, Olympus prevailed easily 71-44. On Jan. 12, Olympus defeated Brighton 92-85 in an offensive showdown. The Titans’ others wins all came by at least 24 points. Olympus defeated West at home on Jan. 5 by the count of 81-55 on Jan. 5. It also ran by East on the road, 69-45 on

Page 16 | February 2024

Jan. 19 and clobbered Skyline at home, 76-49 on Jan. 23. Olympus averages 75.1 points per game, best in Region 6 and all of Class 5A. For a team with the offensive firepower of Olympus, it’s no surprise to see some eye-popping individual stats. Three Titans score in double figures, with senior guard Dutch DowDell leading the way averaging of 23.6 points per game. In fact, DowDell is fifth in the entire state in scoring and second in 5A. He tallied double digits in points in 17 of Olympus’ first 18 games and reached at least 20 points 13 times. DowDell score 30 or more points eight times during this stretch with a season high of 34 in the win at Brighton. DowDell is also the most prolific three-point shooter in 5A with 64 conversions (3.6 a game) through the team’s first 18 contests. He is fourth in the state in three-pointers per game. He also averages 4.9 rebounds a game. DowDell gets lots of help from his teammates. Jordan Barnes, son of longtime head coach Matt Barnes, averages 16.6 points per game and drills 2.1 three-pointers a contest. He’s not all that far off averaging a triple-double, as the senior guard averages 7.3 rebounds and 9.2 assists an outing. He’s also tops on the team in steals at 3.7 a game. His assists

Jordan Barnes is not far from averaging a triple double in his senior year. (File photo City Journals)

and steals averages are both No. 1 in 5A and No. 2 statewide. Senior Reef Smylie is the third in the dynamic Titan trio. The forward scores 16.4 points per game to along with 4.7 rebounds. Another solid contributor is sophomore guard Gavin Lowe. The talented youngster should be a focal point of the offense next season and

is scoring 8.4 points a game this year. He also grabs 2.8 rebounds and dishes out 2.5 assists a game. The Titans will look to once again be a threat in the state tournament, which begins Feb. 20. Olympus will finish its regular season at Skyline Feb. 16. l

Millcreek City Journal

County to provide youth with free rec passes and no library fines By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

alt Lake County's 2024 budget, unanimously approved by the council, marks a notable shift toward enriching the lives of its younger residents. Amidst a challenging fiscal environment, the county's leadership has strategically allocated resources to ensure that youth empowerment and education remain a priority. Central to this year's budget are two key initiatives: the My County Rec Pass and the elimination of library late fees for children and young adults. The My County Rec Pass Initiative A flagship initiative of the 2024 budget is the My County Rec Pass, an ambitious program set to launch in the summer of 2024. This pass will provide all school-age children and teenagers (ages 5-18) residing in Salt Lake County with free, unlimited access to county-operated recreation centers, ice centers, and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools. The program is a direct response to the growing need for accessible recreational spaces for the youth, promoting physical health, social interaction and community engagement. These passes will be available starting this summer. Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson, in her address, highlighted the significance of this program, stating that it represents a major investment in the county's youth. The program's funding comes from the Tourism, Recreation, Culture & Convention Support Program (TRCC), which is primarily financed through tourism revenue. This strategic funding choice ensures the program's feasibility without adding to the county's fiscal strain. “I want all kids, regardless of their parents' paychecks, to have the opportunity to access rec centers for free. To that end, I am proposing free rec center passes for all kids ages 5-18,” Mayor Wilson said. Elimination of Library Late Fees In a parallel effort to enhance educational opportunities, the 2024 budget introduces a one-year pilot program to eliminate late fees on all children's and young adult materials at the Salt Lake County Libraries, starting this summer. This initiative aims to eliminate financial barriers that often prevent young residents from accessing the library's vast resources. By removing late fees, the county intends to encourage more frequent use of libraries, fostering a culture of reading and learning among its younger residents. Wilson emphasized the importance of this change, noting that it will make the library's resources more accessible to those who stand to benefit the most. While the waiver of late fees is set for a trial period, it reflects a broader commitment to making education and learning resources more inclusive and accessible to all segments of

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the community. Balancing the Budget Amid Fiscal Challenges The introduction of these youth-centric programs comes against a backdrop of considerable fiscal challenges. The county faced a slowdown in tax revenues, inflationary pressures and rising healthcare costs. To accommodate these new initiatives, the budget includes significant cuts in other areas, such as travel expenses and operational budgets of various county departments. Despite these financial constraints, the council's decision to prioritize programs like the My County Rec Pass and the elimination of library late fees demonstrates a commitment to investing in the county's future—its children and young adults. Community Impact and Expectations According to the Salt Lake County Mayor’s office, the My County Rec Pass is expected to have a far-reaching impact on the community. By providing free access to recreational facilities, the county aims to offer a constructive outlet for the youth, promoting physical activity and deterring negative behaviors. Additionally, the program is seen as a stepping stone to discovering new interests and talents among the young population. Similarly, the elimination of library late fees is expected to bolster educational engagement. With easier access to books and learning materials, children and young adults can explore a world of knowledge without the deterrent of financial penalties. This change is particularly significant in light of the digital age, where promoting traditional reading habits is becoming increasingly challenging. Salt Lake County Council’s approval did not come without any scrutinization. The council had to balance other priorities in addition to these requests. “The top priority of the Salt Lake County Council is public safety,” said Salt Lake County Council Chair Aimee Winder Newton. “While we found cuts in travel and other areas, we made sure there was adequate funding for the jail, prosecution, behavioral health and areas that keep our community safe and healthy.” Looking Forward As Salt Lake County embarks on this journey of enhancing youth services, the success of these programs will be closely monitored. The efficacy of the My County Rec Pass in increasing physical and social activity among the youth, along with the impact of removing library late fees on literacy and education rates, will be critical indicators of the programs' success. “At a time when our kids are too often consumed by their cell phones and iPads, our rec centers are places where these

Salt Lake County youth will have free access to county recreational passes. (Photo courtesy of Salt Lake County Parks & Rec)

Salt Lake County libraries will not assess late fees on children’s and young adult books in a one year pilot program. (Photo courtesy of Salt Lake County Library)

young people can explore new hobbies, discover new passions, and build community,” Wilson said. “This is important, especially at a time when we read report

after report of record numbers of children struggling with their mental health.” l

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Professor aims to take the stress out of dating on ‘Dating Made Simple’ podcast By Katherine Weinstein | k.weinstein@mycityjournals.com

merica’s current epidemic of social isolation and loneliness has recently made headlines. Statistically speaking, the problem is especially acute for members of Gen Z, young people for whom social media and texting culture has too often replaced in-person social interaction. Members of Gen Z also report more struggles with anxiety and depression. Draper resident Tom Robinson, a professor of mass communications in the advertising program at Brigham Young University, was surprised to learn that many of the young adults he worked with every day were not going on dates. “They are scared to, they don’t know how,” he said. “People think they have to be looking for a spouse.” Robinson decided to address the problem first by giving talks about dating on BYU’s fireside circuit but wanted to reach a larger audience. He started a podcast, “It’s Just Dinner” with his colleague, associate teaching professor Robert Walz. The co-hosts later changed the name to “Dating Made Simple” and have created over 80 episodes. “We asked ourselves, ‘how do we make kids more comfortable with dating?’” Robinson said. “One of my biggest concerns is that there are people sitting home alone on a Fri-

day or Saturday night. That can result in an increase in depression and anxiety. We need to help people get out and have fun.” While the podcast’s target audience is 18 to 30 year olds, Robinson feels that older folks could find it useful as well. “People who are divorced are often in the same situation,” he said. “They don’t know how to ask someone out.” The title “It’s Just Dinner” came out of Robinson’s core piece of advice to take some of the pressure off of getting to know someone. “Forget about dating, just ask someone to go to dinner,” he explained. “The dinner itself isn’t important, it’s an opportunity for you to sit and talk with someone. If you feel a spark, you ask them on a date.” Robinson relayed the fact that he met his wife by following his own advice. “I was divorced and alone,” he said. “I decided I needed to practice what I preached and set up a couple of profiles on online dating sites and apps. I started meeting people and having fun. I know it works!” In each episode of the podcast, Robinson and Walz engage in lively and candid conversations with special guests who have expertise in different aspects of dating and relationship-building. One recent guest was

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professional dating coach Tripp Kramer who specializes in helping shy guys approach and engage in conversation with prospective dates. Online dating coach Erika Ettin appeared on the podcast to give helpful tips on building a successful dating profile. Body language expert Blanca Cobb will be a guest on the podcast in February to teach listeners how to read body language and better express themselves. The producer currently in charge of finding guests for the podcast is BYU junior Macie Thelin, a student in the advertising program. She identified what she believes are roadblocks to dating among her peers. “I’ve seen a lot of people not going out,” Thelin said. “It can feel like a lot of pressure, people are focusing on their careers, it’s too expensive. It hurts my heart to see such great people not going out.” She belongs to the It’s Just Dinner Club which is an off-shoot of the podcast on the BYU campus. “We come up with events where we meet, learn to improve our communication skills, make new friends and meet dating prospects,” she said. Thelin said that she has found the club and podcast to be helpful in her own dating life and isn’t afraid to take the first step in asking someone out. “The podcast teaches people how to communicate and date better,” she summed up. Robinson emphasized that even though the podcast is produced at BYU, “We are not

We asked ourselves, ‘how do we make kids more comfortable with dating? One of my biggest concerns is that there are people sitting home alone on a Friday or Saturday night. That can result in an increase in depression and anxiety. We need to help people get out and have fun. Tom Robinson centered around the Church at all. Seventy-five or 80% of the guests we have on are not LDS. We’re trying to expand our audience.” “Dating Made Simple” is available on Spotify, Apple and all other major podcast platforms. Follow @datingmadesimple_ on Instagram for more content on dating as well as links to the podcast. l

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BYU communications professors Tom Robinson (right) and Robert Walz (left) co-host the “Dating Made Simple” weekly podcast which was formerly titled, “It’s Just Dinner.” (Photo courtesy of Tom Robinson)

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Outcomes Registry data was published by Sackeim HA, et al. J Affective Disorders, 2020, 277(12):65-74. The outcomes reported represent the subset of study patients for which the CGI-S data was reported before and after an acute course of NeuroStar TMS. Patients were treated under realworld conditions where patients may have been prescribed concomitant depression treatments including medications. “Measurable relief” was defined as a CGI-S score <=3 and “complete remission” was defined as a CGI-S score <=2 at the end of treatment.

Page 22 | February 2024

Millcreek City Journal

Coming up for air

or a state run by legislators who sneer at tobacco products, I find it confusing they don’t give a flying cigar about our state’s dangerous air quality. GOP legislators balk at green energy initiatives like a vampire facing the sunrise and a head of garlic. A 2023 American Lung Association report said Salt Lake ranks among the nation’s most polluted cities for ozone and short-term particle pollution. I don’t know what those words mean, but it doesn’t sound good. Lawmakers say Salt Lake has always dealt with inversions, we just have to work around a valley filled with pollution. That’s like saying the kitchen’s always been filled with rotting banana peels, crushed egg shells, open yogurt containers veiled in mold, and a greasy chicken carcass. We just have to work around it. Studies show polluted air is a bigger threat to our health than alcohol or tobacco. Maybe not breathing polluted air should be included in the Word of Wisdom next to wine (the devil’s fancy beverage) and tea (the witch’s drink). Then, perhaps, our lawmakers will pay attention. It’s true the valley’s design creates Utah’s crappy air quality. Temperature inversions trap cold air under a layer of warm air, like putting a lid on a pot of soup. Only this soup is filled with vehicle pollution, smoke from wood burning stoves, industrial emis-

MILLCREEK

Peri Kinder Life and Laughter

sions, and glitter from gender reveal parties. Reducing the number of cars using fossil fuels is a good way to cut down on emissions but “leaders” like illustrious Sen. Mike Lee often fight against renewable fuel programs. And don’t talk about closing coalfired power plants. Republican lawmakers embrace coal energy like it was brought down from Mount Sinai. While other states are running away from coal as fast as humanly possible, Utah lawmakers delay closing coal power plants that leave behind tons of coal ash, a lovely bouquet of radioactive waste, arsenic and old lace. Utah has around a dozen coal ash dump sites and you can bet your sooty lungs each site contributes to our bad air quality. Oh, don’t our legislators wish it was still the 1970s, when coal was king, and you could use your wood stove all day (even in the summer) and no one was trying to take your gas-operated vehicle?

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In good news, some electric vehicle owners were given a Utah tax break through 2030 (although it diminishes each year) and there’s a rebate for EV charging stations. But (classic legislature) EV owners have to pay an additional registration fee each year to offset the gas taxes they don’t pay. And a bill passed in 2023 adds a third tax at EV charging stations, on top of sales and franchise taxes. It’s like being caressed with one hand and punched in the nose with the other. Utah has the potential for vast amounts of solar, wind and geothermal energy, so why can’t we address the continued yucki-

ness in our atmosphere? I know. Money. The answer is always money. But it’s at the expense of our health, especially low-income populations, minorities and children who live near higher-polluted areas. It must be a coincidence that these children have higher rates of respiratory illnesses. Yeah, just a concidence. I know we’re not supposed to compromise anymore, and we’re not supposed to believe science and doctors, and we’re not supposed to believe in climate change or coal pollution. And I know we’re supposed to trust the Utah legislature with our lives. But, that might be the problem.

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February 2024 | Page 23