Riverton City Journal | June 2026

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Meet Hannah Larson: The bubbly, Portuguese-speaking, two-time state champ

By Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com

The sophomore wrestler joined the sport just four years ago as a sixth grader.

Hannah Larson could be hard to miss. Not because of her size (she wrestled in the 130-pound weight class for Riverton High this year as a sophomore), but possibly because of her smile, personality, lack of social media or even the languages she speaks. Take your pick.

“She’s super bubbly, super nice, always wanted to lend a hand,” said Cy Miyake, head coach of the Riverton girls wrestling team. “Definitely her social skills are a lot more advanced than people her age.”

But her skills don’t end with conversations.

Larson is a two-time 6A state champion in high school wrestling having won in the 120-pound weight class her freshman year, before following that up with a title this year in the 130-pound class.

Not bad for someone who joined the sport in sixth grade.

Getting her start

After watching her older sister fall in love with the sport while wrestling for the Silverwolves, she decided to give it a shot in one of Riverton’s younger wolf pack wrestling clubs.

“I hated it,” Larson said laughing.

“It was so hard mentally, and physically it just drains your body. I would go home after practices and sleep for like four hours.”

When she first started there were only boys in her group who, she said, would “always kick my trash.”

“But then I got the hang of it and made some of them cry,” she recalled.

Larson had tried other sports: volleyball, soccer. Even then there wasn’t much time, she was too busy weeding or working for her neighbors making money instead.

But wrestling stuck.

Getting her medals

She caught the wrestling world by surprise

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COMMON GROUND

Play Nice in the Sandbox

Common Ground will be a column of rotating viewpoints that highlight specific feelings across the political spectrum, and it will always end with possible ways to come together.

There once was a giant sandbox where everyone could play together. It had dump trucks, shovels, sandcastle molds and one corner filled with cigarette butts from the high school teens.

Big Brother (BB) controlled the sandbox. He carried a clipboard and whistle, and discouraged others from playing. Although it belonged to the entire community, BB would chase people away, saying, “That’s just the rules,” which he had made himself, of course.

But Little Brother (LB) wanted to play. He tried to convince BB to give him just a small part of the sandbox to build sculptures with his friends. “What about this spot?” he asked.

BB clutched his clipboard to his chest and gasped. “That’s a very important place. That’s my transportation corridor. You can’t have it.”

Every spot LB suggested, BB drew a new line in the sand and explained why it just wasn’t feasible. That spot was BB’s economic area, and another spot was an important waterway. Soon, all that was left was the ashtray corner, but BB wanted control over that, too.

LB went to find Mom (who represents voters, the judiciary and common sense). She explained to BB that the sandbox belonged to everyone and LB could have his share.

Peri Kinder Common Ground

and sand toys ever since, trying to overturn the Court’s decision.

May Follow Up From Readers

Instead of a sandbox, we’re dealing with voting maps. Gerrymandering has shaped Utah’s leadership for decades, especially in creating congressional districts that look more like a sliced pizza than an equally divided constituency.

We can’t bury our heads in the sand and expect the majority leadership in our state to treat us fairly. In 2018, Utah voters tried to redraw the sandbox lines, approving a ballot initiative that would create an independent redistricting committee to create voting maps to avoid gerrymandering.

But Gov. Cox signed a different map into law that split Salt Lake County into four districts that could easily be controlled by Republicans. The new map ignored the committee’s recommendations, which would give Democrats a possibility of winning a Congressional seat.

Utah’s League of Women Voters filed a lawsuit, claiming the new map was a bunch of baloney. They won that case in 2024 when the Utah Supreme Court ruled that legislators could not override the voice of the people. But the majority leadership has been fighting for its maps

BB was furious and started throwing sand at Mom, calling her a bully. “You’re destroying the integrity of the sandbox!” he screamed. Then he spent the rest of the summer planning to steal back LB’s share.

RIVERTON TEAM

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EDUCATING,

PUBLISHER

Bryan Scott | bryan.s@thecityjournals.com

EDITOR

Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

Mieka Sawatzki | mieka.s@thecityjournals.com

Ryan Casper | ryan.c@thecityjournals.com

Marc Davis | marc.d@thecityjournals.com

CLIENT SERVICES

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

Common Ground: Gerrymandering should be illegal in every state because it skews voters’ rights and stacks the deck for whoever the majority party may be. Maybe instead of lawmakers crafting the voting maps, independent commissions can be tasked with creating fair districts for all states.

We’re told that every vote counts, but that’s not the case in gerrymandered states, on both sides of the aisle. Voters feel frustrated and unheard. I think we can agree our system is broken. Majority leaders in states, both Red and Blue, draw the voting maps, create the rules and decide which demographics get representation.

Could Utah take the high road and fix the system? Could we become a beacon of guidance and inspiration for the country in a time that feels heavy and dark? It’s a nice idea, we just need brave leaders willing to adopt meaningful change.

A diverse range of opinions creates effective solutions. Instead of one group deciding the laws, it strengthens our democracy to include voices from differing beliefs and experiences.

Gerrymandering eliminates divergent voices, creating a system of inbred and insipid decisions. That doesn’t sound like fair representation; that sounds like a power grab, no matter the party.

CIRCULATION COORDINATOR

Lindsay Andreasen | lindsay.a@thecityjournals.com Rack locations are also available on our website.

EDITORIAL & AD DESIGN

Stacey LaMont Ty Gorton

RIVERTON CITY JOURNAL

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PHONE: 801-254-5974

In May, John J. Walker’s Common Ground article, “I can’t afford YOUR tax bill,” sparked a flurry of replies, including one from reader Christine. “I would agree that paying for infrastructure is important and it’s tough when your paycheck doesn’t go very far for all your hard-worked hours. I would disagree, however, about the derogatory generalization of Democrats being the brainless, doom-scrolling, rage-bating, vulgarity-writing party.”

Some commenters said they want their tax dollars spent on things like zoos, parks, and museums, and felt Mr. Walker’s column was “negative and angry.” Others felt people earning over $1 million should pay more into the system.

Readers expressed appreciation for the Common Ground concept, with the focus of bringing the community together, even when we disagree. However, reader Laura felt the tone of Mr. Walker’s op-ed didn’t fit that description. “I don’t see how the rudeness expressed in this article could achieve that goal,” she wrote.

A reader named Tyler summed up a prevailing sentiment when he wrote, “I think the [Common Ground] approach and voice is exactly what our community needs. I firmly believe that informing on political issues is a much-needed thing. I hope that the continued success of the column helps bring our community closer together!”

— City Journals Columnist Peri Kinder

MISSION

Our mission is to inform and entertain our community while promoting a strong local economy via relevant content presented across a synergetic network of print and digital media.

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Bree Ivory’s “Strength, Resilience, and Fragility” is a pyrography art piece, created using fire. The Herriman High senior won Best of Show for her work. (Peri Kinder/City Journals)

Dozens of students won awards at the Jordan School District High School Art Show, including Herriman High senior Gregor Stewart for his digital art, “Temptation.” (Peri Kinder/ City Journals)

JSD High School Art Show recognizes top talent

More than 170 pieces were on display at the Old Dome Meeting Hall in Riverton.

By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com

Showcasing art created by dozens of high school students, the Jordan School District High School Art Show displayed oil paintings, watercolors, photography, ceramics, sculpture and more. Held at the Old Dome Meeting Hall in Riverton, teachers in the district hand-selected each of the 175 pieces for the competition.

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In late April, the JSD High School Art Show Award Ceremony was held, recognizing the students’ talents and dedication to art. JSD Fine Arts and Media Consultant Norman Emerson and renowned artist Al Rounds presented winners with awards in several categories.

The Best of Show winners were: Herriman High’s Bree Ivory for her pyrography, “Strength, Resilience, and Fragility”; Bingham High’s Porter Anderton for his metal sculpture, “Natures Hand”; Bingham High’s Mannix Drage for his photo, “American Kestrel”, and Riverton High’s Emerson Christiansen, Ryan Horner, Stella Moss, London Young and Garrett Schreiner for their digital video, “Static.”

“It’s great to see the amazing artwork that students have produced,” said JSD Teaching and Learning Administrator Carolyn Gough. “I’m a fan. I’m a fan of the students. I’m a fan of their accomplishments, as well as the teachers. They work so hard to help students and I appreciate everything that they do.”

Along with Best of Show, awards were given for Honorable Mention, Award of Merit and Award of Excellence in 2D, 3D, photography and digital video. Also, the Doug Allen Scholarship was presented for the first time this year, with a $700 scholarship awarded to one artist from each high school in the district.

Emerson said he was told by the judges this year that “they absolutely agonized over selecting the award winners because the caliber of the work that was submitted was so high. And that, of course, is a testament to the wonderful talent of our students, and also the hard work and the skill of our teachers.”

Ivory’s Best of Show pyrography was created by fire, using various torches and intensity to get the right colors. The South Jordan resident said it took a lot of trial and patience but she loves doing portraits in unconventional ways. The subject was inspired by a Rwandan family in her neighborhood who lived through

the genocide in 1994.

“My family got really close to them because we were helping them as they were transitioning into the neighborhood, finding jobs and stuff,” she said. “Then I learned their story and it all just came together. Then it had a lot of meaning.”

For Bingham High’s Porter Anderton, his Best of Show metal sculpture inspiration came from his welding class.

“I’ve been sculpting with clay for a little while because it’s cool and fun to play with,” he said. “In my welding class, we made flowers last year, and I thought it would be cool if I made a bunch of flowers and then a hand holding them. I spent a lot of time getting the different components of the arm to make it look realistic.”

Other winners include Copper Hills High student Brinley Taylor, who won an Award of Excellence as well as a Doug Allen scholarship for her oil on pastel, “Pretty Promises,” and Herriman High senior Gregor Stewart, who earned an Award of Merit for his digital art, “Temptation.”

“I wanted to play around a bit with warm, vibrant colors in a very dark setting,” he said. “So I’ve got a lot of these purple, reds and oranges, but the backdrop encapsulates it, to make the colors pop more. I also wanted the contrast between the very shaky man here and the very confidently posed beast.”

During the ceremony, Gough took a few moments to thank the parents and acknowledge their contribution to their students’ success.

“I know, as I have grown up in the art world, doing a lot of classes and training of my own, it takes time, lessons and also materials. So thank you for helping your students to live their dreams and to be a part of that.”

A full list of winners can be found on he Jordan School District website at jordandistrict.org. l

Family celebrates milestones at Riverton race

What started as a challenge became a generational celebration.

By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com

It’snot like the Naisbitts are elite athletes or trained runners. In fact, before the Riverton Half Marathon, 10K and 5K, some of the family hadn’t ever participated in a race. But more than 40 members of the Naisbitt family showed up at the 2026 event to race or cheer each other on.

Now it’s a new family tradition.

Eden Callister suggested the event could be a meaningful way to celebrate two milestones: her grandfather’s 85th birthday and her brother’s 18th. Family members were traveling to Utah for the celebrations and Callister encouraged them to sign up for the race.

What started as a few participants turned into an event that spanned generations and ranged in ages from 12 to 85.

“It was my first race and I decided to train for the half marathon. I’m still working towards that,” Callister said. “I wanted to do something that was really hard, something that wasn’t possible at the time, but would become possible through discipline and training. I decided to sign up. My little brother has been running on and off, and so I decided I wanted him to do something hard with me, too. And so I signed him up.”

Callister’s mother, Andrea Bush, and little brother live in Alabama so coordinating training and travel was a challenge, but then more family members registered for the event, including Callister’s grandparents Gilbert and Jean Naisbitt.

At 85, Gilbert Naisbitt won the 5K for his age division, and Jean Naisbitt, at 79, won her age division, too. The Taylorsville couple joined dozens of family members who cele-

brated their accomplishments.

“It was so fun for my parents to get first place,” Bush said. “This was just a fun, family race where people came out and did their best, had fun and competed against themselves. So next year, that’s what we’re doing again.”

“We had people who came just to support and cheer us on,” Callister said. “There were those who didn’t want to run, and some of the littles were too young to run; they

cheered us on as we finished.”

Although she organized and trained for the event, Callister sprained her ankle during the race and didn’t finish, but that only fueled her desire to run again next year when the event falls on her grandfather’s actual birthday.

“I was so hyped up for it, and then I rolled my ankle,” Callister said. “It was the saddest thing to me. It would have been so easy to count the day as a loss, but the truth is, I got everyone there, and my little brother was so proud that he finished. He’d never done something that hard. He literally wore his medal for days. It just brought me so much joy. And my grandma, she got to the finish line and broke down in tears.”

While it didn’t turn out the way she’d planned, Callister is excited to prepare for next year’s Riverton races. With family spread across South Jordan, Taylorsville, Eagle Mountain and Alabama, she said the event in Riverton is a good location to bring everyone together.

The family is training again and Callister is preparing for the half-marathon. She’s challenged her siblings and other family members who didn’t race to join in the event next year. Her mom is already on board and will be back to run again.

“We’re just a family who loves to be together and do stuff together,” Bush said. “It was a fun environment, and whatever race we were in, we could all go and do it together.”l

On the 250th anniversary of America, Riverton Arts Council takes residents back to ‘1776’

Following “1776” this June, “Freaky Friday” will be the next Riverton Arts Council musical beginning on July 30.

By Cassie Goff c.goff@mycityjournals.com

The Riverton Arts Council will be showing two community musicals this summer. Coming up first will be their free performances for “1776” in June followed by their rendition of “Freaky Friday” in late July.

“1776” follows John Adams as he attempts to gain independence for the Second Continental Congress (in Philadelphia) from the Great Britain monarchy. Needing to persuade the new American colonies that freedom is worth the risk of war, Adams calls upon Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson.

“1776” follows their debates between reigning delegates (including George Washington, Edward Rutledge, Dr. Lyman Hall, John Dickinson and John Hancock) as they wrestle with personal convictions, political pressures, and the moral contradictions of liberty — particularly the issue of slavery.

“”1776” blends history, drama and wit to explore the courage, compromise, and humanity behind one of America’s most pivotal moments,” as described by the Riverton Arts Council promotions.

The storyline of the musical follows their efforts, described as passionate and yet often frustrating with the three main characters being proud, frightened, uncertain, irritable and charming, but notable.

Will they be able to get the Declaration of Independence signed? Attend the Riverton Arts Council musical to find out! (Even though, yes, we do already know that answer.)

“1776” is a Tony Award-winning musical which premiered in 1969, with music and lyrics by Sherman Edwards and story by Peter Stone. Notable songs include “For God’s Sake, John Sit Down!,” “Momma Look Sharp” and “Molasses to Rum.”

“1776” performances begin on June 12 and run until June 20 with matinee and evening performances. Oh, and they’re free to attend!

Riverton Arts Council will also be putting on performances of “Freaky Friday” beginning on July 30, with family-friendly performances running until Aug. 10.

The new musical by Bridget Carpenter celebrates the “Freaky Friday” novel by Mary Rodgers and the Disney films with an unexpectedly emotional update on the classic story lines.

“Filled with energetic songs, big laughs, and meaningful moments, Freaky Friday is a fun, family-friendly musical that reminds us all that sometimes the best way to understand someone… is to live their life for a day,” as described by the Riverton Arts Council promotions.

Main characters Katherine and Ellie come to appreciate the self-acceptance, love, and mutual respect in their mother/daughter relationship by spending a day in each other’s shoes.

All performances for both “1776” and “Freaky Friday” will be held at the Sandra N Lloyd Community Center (12830 Redwood Rd.). Tickets will be available through the Riverton Art’s Council website.

Learn more through the Riverton Arts Council, visit their website at: www.rivertonartscouncil.org.

Or check out their social media on Facebook at @Riverton Arts Council or Instagram at @RivertonUtah.Arts. l

“1776” blends spirited debate, humor, and powerful music to lead Congress to ultimately reach a historic decision. (Photo courtesy Riverton Arts Council)

her freshman year, defeating a senior in the championship match to claim the podium’s top spot.

“There were probably times where people didn’t even know who the heck she was,” Miyake said. “Then all of a sudden, they’re on their back.”

While Larson said she put in the work to earn that medal, she added there was a little embarrassment, like it had been “lucky.” Larson had pinned her opponent after she made a mistake.

Notwithstanding Larson’s ability to take advantage of an opponent’s error, she still felt like an underdog coming into her second season, albeit one with a target on her back.

Both Larson and Miyake noted the expectation that comes with winning, with Miyake pointing out everyone is giving you their best shot and people just assume she can win all the time.

“Winning a state championship is very impressive,” Miyake said. “Now there’s a lot more added pressure that comes into it, whether it’s external or internal.”

The sophomore developed new moves in the offseason as she attended multiple wrestling camps. She also moved up two weight classes, which she said took her half the season to acclimatize to stronger girls. “They just felt bigger.”

But that didn’t stop Larson. Miyake said

she won 97% of her matches by pin and also scored more takedowns from neutral position. But what really makes her a special wrestler, he said, is her tenacity.

“She’ll do whatever move, even if it’s not a textbook traditional move,” Miyake said. “She’ll do whatever she can, whenever she can, and it will catch a lot of her opponents by surprise. She has some matches where she’ll be losing by a few points then all of a sudden pull out some crazy reversal and put the girl on her back.”

Her weight regulation would take its toll at times while she was cutting, draining her energy faster. She arrived at state having taken third at the pre-state divisionals competition, different from the feeling freshman year when she had taken first.

She won the first two matches at state handily, then woke up the second day for her semifinal stressed out, feeling scared. Larson won the match via pin, allowing no points to be scored on her.

Whether it was the pressure which had built up or the release of some internal fear, her response was cathartic.

“After that match I started crying because I didn’t really have the faith in myself that I probably should have,” Larson said. “Like I didn’t expect to win that match. I didn’t have confidence.”

Not only did she win 9-0 in the semis, she then pulverized the championship match, winning 16-0 against someone who had beat-

en her earlier in the year.

“When I did win I knew I had risen above, not necessarily failures, but mistakes I had made from earlier matches,” she said.

The second-year head coach agreed.

“To keep it sustained, and hold on to that pressure, because it’s going to mount the more you go on in that second year. To see her go through that and still rise above was just really awesome to see,” Miyake said. “I was just so proud of how she was able to handle that pressure.”

Next steps for Larson and Riverton wrestling though, would be more teammates. She stressed the stigma with girls wrestling—one of the fastest growing sports in the country— couldn’t be further from the truth. When girls come to practices, she said it changes their whole opinion.

She urged more girls to join emphasizing its applications for life. “You learn so much more about yourself, about your body mentally and physically. You learn how to push your limits. It teaches you confidence in yourself. It’s a family.”

“When I’m an adult, I’m going to look back and know I can try new things because I did it in wrestling,” Larson said. “It’s amazing.”

Getting her life

On the mat, Miyake said Larson “turns into this stone-cold killer that will do whatever she can do to score points, get pins, not give up points.”

“Off the mat she is the kindest, sweetest person you’ll ever meet.”

Larson is very active to say the least. She likes going on runs with her dad, fishing, camping. If she’s not hanging out with friends, she likes working for older adults “specifically just to hear all their stories and stuff.”

There is no social media in her life due to her Gabb phone, which doesn’t allow web browsing or social media apps. She finds it a blessing as she watches people in the halls staring at their phone.

“I have so much more time because I don’t need to worry about how many ‘likes’ I have or posting videos or doomscrolling. I just get to go on runs and work out and build friendships,” Larson said.

As for her future she would like to wrestle in college but has lots of interests beyond collegiate athletics. She is fluent in Portuguese (she took dual language immersion at Bluffdale Elementary), interested in the medical field, wants to coach wrestling and hopes serve a mission for her church.

When pressed, Miyake estimated Larson’s future occupation would be something in the medical field or customer service.

“She’s a great people person and I think a lot of people kind of gravitate to her because of her off the mat personality,” he said. She’s hard to miss. l

7 local businesses honored by South Valley Chamber

The South Valley Chamber of Commerce recognized seven outstanding small businesses at its inaugural Small Business Impact Awards luncheon on May 5. One business from each city within the Chamber’s footprint—Sandy, Draper, Riverton, South Jordan, Cottonwood Heights, Herriman and Bluffdale—was selected and honored with the SVC Small Business Impact Award, sponsored by OC Tanner Jewelers.

The 2026 award recipients included:

• Prime IV Hydration and Wellness (Sandy)

• AMYS Martial Arts (Draper)

• B & R Chem-Dry (Riverton)

• Glenmoor Golf Club (South Jordan)

• Eight Settlers Distillery and Restaurant (Cottonwood Heights)

• Redemption Bar and Grill (Herriman)

• Adaptive Arena (Bluffdale)

Chamber President and CEO Jay Francis said the businesses were selected for their leadership, commitment to service and positive impact within their communities. He said each demonstrates a strong dedication to supporting the well-being and growth of the South Valley through both business excellence and community involvement.

“Small businesses are more than storefronts or service providers,” he said. “They sponsor youth sports teams, donate to local causes, mentor employees, support schools, create opportunities and help shape the identity and culture of our cities. They are often the first to step up in times of need and the last to seek recognition for it.”

The Small Business Impact Award program was first announced at the Chamber’s State of the Chamber event in February. Beginning in 2027, award recipients will be announced at the State of the Chamber and formally recognized at the Small Business Impact Awards luncheon later in the year.

A little bit about the winners per SVC recognition comments:

Prime IV Hydration and Wellness:

Since opening in 2022, Prime IV Hydration & Wellness has shown impressive growth and resilience, building a strong client base while navigating a competitive and emerging industry. Dedicated to promoting health and preventative care, Prime IV plays an active role in the Sandy community—participating in local events and city initiatives and helping residents improve their overall well-being.

AMYS Martial Arts:

For nearly 40 years, AMYS Martial Arts has been a cornerstone of strength, discipline and community—serving families across generations and, since 2018, here in Draper. AMYS Martial Arts is a true community

partner—working with local schools, hosting programs and events and creating meaningful opportunities for Draper families to connect and grow together.

B & R Chem-Dry:

For more than 40 years, B & R ChemDry has been a trusted, home-based business serving the Riverton community with consistency, care and professionalism. The company also invests in local college students. By providing flexible employment opportunities, students are able to get valuable work experience while supporting their educational goals.

Glenmoor Golf Club:

For decades, Glenmoor Golf Club has been a cornerstone of recreation and community in South Jordan—offering a welcoming, high-quality experience for golfers of all ages and skill levels. Through years of steady growth and resilience, Glenmoor has remained a trusted destination, providing local jobs, hosting tournaments and continually investing in its facilities and programs. Its commitment to accessibility and affordability ensures that residents can enjoy the game in an inclusive environment.

Eight Settlers Distillery:

Since opening in 2020, Eight Settlers Distillery has become a standout destination in Cottonwood Heights—blending craft distilling, high-quality dining and a welcoming space for the community to gather. Today, they employ 40 team members and play an important role in supporting the local economy and tourism along the Wasatch Front.

Redemption Bar & Grill:

Since opening its doors, Redemption Bar & Grill has quickly become a thriving and dependable part of the Herriman community—built on quality service, thoughtful growth and a strong commitment to its customers. Through both business and outreach, Redemption has continued to strengthen the connections that make Herriman such a vibrant place to live.

Adaptive Arena:

Adaptive Arena, founded in 2023 by sisters Ashley, Andrea and Miranda, was built on a simple but powerful belief: everyone deserves to be part of a team. In just three years, this organization has created a one-of-a-kind

space where athletes of all abilities can connect, compete and thrive. Adaptive Arena has become a true community hub—partnering with local events and creating meaningful opportunities for athletes, volunteers and families alike. l

Funeral arrangements are a deeply personal choice. Preplanning provides you with the time needed to make practical, detailed decisions that reflect your standards, lifestyle, taste and budget. And we assure you and your family that the choices you make will be carried out as planned.

Riverton, Bluffdale teachers earn top marks

fourth-grade classroom.

Golesh, known for giving up part of her recess time or prep time to bring a student who is hungry to the office for a snack, has a willingness to teach students dealing with behavior and academic difficulties.

By Travis Barton travis.b@thecityjournals.com

Each year the Jordan Education Foundation, joined by the Jordan School District Superintendent and various community leaders, recognizes teachers and administrators for their outstanding contributions to educating students.

Three teachers from Riverton and Bluffdale were among the 15 teachers or administrators surprised as they were named top outstanding educators.

Amanda Golesh – Bluffdale Elementary, fourth grade

Positive attitudes and working together are two pillars in Amanda Golesh’s

“As a teacher, she possesses a remarkable ability to connect with students, fostering an environment where curiosity is encouraged and every child feels seen and safe to take risks,” said one co-worker in their nomination summary.

Golesh was described as “one-in-amillion,” a teacher who cares about the students’ learning, attendance, safety and social interaction. While her teaching style involves following through on consequences, she does so supportively and with care.

“Amanda Golesh is the kind of teacher who changes lives in ways that stay with her students forever,” the co-worker wrote.

“She pours her whole heart into her classroom, forming deep, genuine connections that make every child feel safe, understood

and capable of greatness. She has a gift for reaching all students—quiet ones, confident ones, those who struggle and those who soar. What makes her truly remarkable is her constant drive to grow; she never stops looking for new ways to improve. Her impact is lasting.”

Mary Brown – Foothills Elementary, fourth grade

No student goes unnoticed. That is a hallmark of fourth grade teacher Mary Brown’s classroom as she strives to make her Foothills Elementary class feel like a family.

Brown, a mentor and team leader at the school, begins every school year crocheting every student a plush survival pack with necessities for the school year. She and the kids also create special cards and donate them to charity.

Recently, according to her nomination, Brown presented on the new math curriculum at the district level. Her presentation was so well-received, “it became legendary.” Principals at other schools were constantly requesting she come present to their faculties. She recently completed her English as a second language endorsement, using the strategies she learned to further help her students.

“Her continued dedication to lifelong learning has been a blessing to her students! Her students always make incredible growth in reading during the school year,” her colleague wrote.

Trisha Wyatt – Kauri Sue Hamilton, elementary special educator

In her orthopedic classroom, Trisha

Wyatt serves students with significant cognitive, speech and motor delays to go along with complex medical needs such as seizures and diabetes. So she meets them where they are, searching for ways to unlock their abilities.

Sometimes that means finding new ways to engage them, whether by breaking into song for a student who learns best through music, or creating hands-on literacy activities that make concepts accessible and fun.

Wyatt was described as patient, caring, deeply invested in staff and students, a natural leader and mentor by her team.

“Trisha’s leadership is grounded in her ability to make everyone feel valued and heard, ensuring a positive, productive environment,” wrote one colleague.

Parents note her ability to both nurture and challenge as well as her proactive communication so they feel supported and involved.

Wyatt is known for noticing the little things, making her an effective collaborator for each child’s success. “(She) exemplifies what it means to partner with families, building trust and fostering genuine, lasting relationships that support the whole child.”

The atmosphere she creates stood out to her fellow educators as they noted her positivity, flexibility, grace, calm and uplifting presence in the school.

“Her educational support staff never want to leave her classroom, parents hope their children can stay in her care and administration values the exceptional results she achieves for students. She truly makes everyone around her better—students, staff and the entire school community.” l

Parkinson’s Disease

WBeyond the Tremor: Unveiling the Invisible Struggle of Parkinson’s Disease

HEN YOU THINK OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE, a visible tremor might come to mind. However, the true experience often lies hidden beneath the surface – an “invisible struggle” impacting millions. This article highlights the complexities of Parkinson’s and advancements in care.

A common misconception is that all Parkinson’s patients experience tremors. This isn’t true; up to 20% do not. Additionally, Parkinson’s isn’t just an elderly condition. Young-Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD) affects individuals under 50, with celebrity Michael J. Fox, diagnosed at 29, significantly raising awareness and funding for research.

As Dr. Sunil Rathore, a neurologist at Holy Cross Hospital – Salt Lake, emphasizes, “Many people believe Parkinson’s is solely a motor condition, defined by tremors and rigidity. However, that’s just one piece of a much larger and more complex puzzle. The non-motor symptoms – from sleep disturbances and anxiety to cognitive changes and chronic pain – can often be the most challenging aspects for our patients.”

The Hidden Realities: Non-Motor Symptoms and Daily Impact

The “invisible struggle” of Parkinson’s includes a wide array of non-motor symptoms impacting daily life, often appearing years before motor symptoms. These can include loss of smell (anosmia), REM sleep behavior disorder, constipation, depression, anxiety, cognitive changes, and debilitating fatigue. These realities profoundly affect well-being, turning simple tasks like dressing or driving into immense challenges and leading to social isolation.

Hope on the Horizon: Advancements in Treatment and Research

While there’s no cure, significant advancements are improving symptom management and quality of life. Levodopa remains a cornerstone medication, with ongoing developments to optimize its effectiveness. Advanced therapies like Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) and focused ultrasound offer new hope by precisely targeting brain areas responsible for motor symptoms. Emerging research explores disease-modifying drugs, gene therapy, and biomarker discovery. The Michael J. Fox Foundation has raised over

Nurture what’s next.

Women’s health care for every stage of you.

$2.5 billion for research, accelerating the search for a cure.

Dr. Rebecca H. Reiser, a neurologist at Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley, states, “The landscape of treatment and support is constantly evolving. We’re seeing incredible progress in understanding the disease at a molecular level, leading to more targeted therapies and a renewed sense of hope for better symptom control and ultimately, a cure. Our goal is to empower patients to live full and meaningful lives.”

Local Expertise and Support Available

Living with Parkinson’s is a journey best not taken alone. Our community offers local support groups, specialized exercise classes, and educational events for patients and caregivers. If you or a loved one are experiencing any concerning symptoms, please consult a provider. Early diagnosis and proactive management are key. For more information, visit: mountain.commonspirit.org.

For more information or to find a provider visit mountain.commonspirit.org

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

At CommonSpirit Health, we make the healing presence of God known in our world by improving the health of the people we serve, especially those who are vulnerable, while we advance social justice for all.

Women go through many changes in their lives. And we believe every milestone matters. Our health care experts can help you face your next phase with confidence – because each chapter deserves to be celebrated.

Find care near you at mountain.commonspirit.org.

Local adult athletes represent Utah at Special Olympics USA Games in June

By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

ThisJune, athletes from across the state will represent Utah on a national stage at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. For many families, the journey is more than medals.

Held June 2026 in Minneapolis, the Games will bring together 3,000 athletes, 1,500 coaches and thousands of fans from all 50 states. The competition highlights inclusion, pairing athletes with and without intellectual disabilities and showcasing what’s possible through sport.

Team Utah will send 69 delegate members, including 46 athletes, ages 16 and up, and their unified partners, competing in eight of the 16 sports: athletics, bocce, bowling, golf, soccer, swimming, unified basketball (interscholastic) and unified flag football (intercollegiate), said Courtnie Worthen, Special Olympics Utah director of Unified Champion Schools.

Among those heading to Minnesota is swimmer Jordan Barlow, who has set a high goal.

“I want to set the record in the 50 freestyle; I’m going to swim hard,” said the Draper resident who attends Life Skills Academy in Canyons School District.

His mother, Mandy, said his goal is within reach.

“He’s right there with the USA Down Syndrome record around 29 seconds; the Special Olympics record is around 26,” she said. “If he gets in the 28s, we’ll be ecstatic.”

Barlow trains three to four days per week, balancing practices with his Special Olympics team, the Salt Lake Stars; Team Utah trainings and additional time in the pool with former high school swimmers, including his older sister who helps him with his starts, turns and technique.

He will compete in the 50-yard freestyle and 25-yard backstroke, events he qualified for at last June’s Utah Summer Games.

For his mother, watching her son compete on a national stage will be emotional, even as the Games encourage athlete independence.

“I’ll be there to watch; we’re already so

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proud of him,” she said. “He’ll fly with the team and will stay in the dorm, so he’s eating and sleeping with the team.”

That independence is a hallmark of Special Olympics as 35-year-old Draper resident Elizabeth Jensen prepares to compete at the USA Games.

She will represent Utah as one of four members in bowling. After winning a gold medal in the state tournament in August 2025, Jensen was selected through a lottery of other athletes who qualified. She also qualified in swimming, but chose bowling, her favorite sport, and trains once or twice per week.

“I like throwing it fast,” Jensen said about her favorite part of bowling. “I’m excited to represent Team Utah in the USA Games.”

To prepare for the Games, she has been walking, lifting weights and pushing through physical challenges. Her father, Blayne, said his daughter has undergone multiple surgeries and has ongoing knee issues.

“Her kneecap will pop and slide off the front of her knee and she’ll fall down,” he said. “We’re looking to get a new brace to see if it helps.”

That is just one of the obstacles Jensen has faced. Her mother, Norma, said her daughter wasn’t expected to live her first day after being life-flighted from a Bountiful hospital to Primary Children’s Hospital. She spent her first two months in the hospital, was nourished through a feeding tube until she was 5 and wasn’t expected to crawl or walk.

Jensen attended schools in West Valley City, where her mother said it wasn’t always easy.

“Sometimes kids were really rude, and even though some were nice, her brothers were there to help her out,” she said.

Jensen prevailed; she is now an accomplished athlete —recently winning the state silver medal in dance — and is an accomplished reader and talented in the arts, painting and playing piano and ukulele.

“She’s been flourishing; she’s shining,” her mother said, adding Special Olympics has provided her daughter a community where she belongs and the confidence to be her best. “Elizabeth has been able to do the things she loves to do through the Special Olympics and will compete at nationals; now, there’s opportunity. It’s gratifying seeing how people with disabilities can do so many things.”

Blayne Jensen sees how meaningful it is to his daughter: “For me, it’s great seeing her be able to do the things her brothers got to do growing up that she didn’t get to do; and to witness how excited she gets now having the chance to compete, it’s exciting.” l

Glenmoor golf pro presented a PGA GameChanger Award

Changing the lives of young players as they learn golf has been a longtime passion for Glenmoor Golf Club professional Darci Dehlin-Olsen.

By Tom Haraldsen t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com

For the past eight years, one of the most successful PGA Jr. League Coaches in America is right here in South Jordan. Darci Dehlin-Olsen has been coaching and instructing young players for years at the Glenmoor Golf Club, a course she also played as a youth. She has now been named a winner of the PGA GameChanger Award for her work in advancing youth golf.

“We have the largest youth golf program in the state, and we’ve hit the benchmarks we set for the number of leagues and so many kids earning scholarships,” she said. “So we’ve become a gamechanger in that way. It’s pretty awesome.”

During the PGA Show in Orlando earlier this year, she was recognized along with 105 PGA of America Golf Professionals and LPGA Professionals. Since the program’s inception in 2019, the 25 largest PGA Jr. Leagues nationwide earn the GameChanger designation. Dehlin-Olsen has won it the past two years.

“The GameChanger Awards are a mean-

ingful way to recognize the PGA Jr. League coaches who consistently go above and beyond to enrich the lives of families in their communities,” said Steve Tanner, senior director of player engagement for the PGA of America. “Their passion, leadership and dedication play a vital role in creating positive experiences that extend beyond the course.”

“Utah definitely has a lot of youth sports,” Dehlin-Olsen said, “and the area around Glenmoor is experiencing a lot of growth with new move-ins. Since we went through the Save Glenmoor project in 2017 (the course was considered being closed for developers, but the community fought back to save it), there’s been a great outreach to provide something for everyone, and I’ve always been focused on helping our youth.”

She loves Glenmoor, where she grew up playing, where her husband and daughter play, along with both youth and adults. On Women’s Sports Day in 2025, she saw huge numbers of female golfers, who now make up almost 50% of all players on the course. When she first started at Glenmoor, that number was between 10 and 15%.

High school teams from Herriman, Bingham and Mountain Ridge call it their home course, and many of the players on those teams have been taught by and trained with Dehlin-Olsen. She said the growth in

girls’ golf in particular has exploded. When the sport was first introduced into Utah high school sports a few years ago, some players were added to teams just by showing up. Now, she said there is a tryout procedure where at several schools, some girls are cut to get teams to the 8 to 10 player limit.

“So to have a girl try out for high school golf–it’s really rewarding, and fun to see all of them apply for scholarships,” she said. “And the sport continues to grow in popularity across the board. We have over 500 men in our men’ s league out here, and our ladies’ league is the largest it’s ever been. Things are just bustling. We’ve got a little bit of everything out here.”

One concern that all golf courses are facing is the issue of water usage. Dehlin-Olsen said that so much technology goes into course maintenance now, and course superintendents are constantly schooled on conservation and preservation of water.

“There’s a misconception,” she said. “Golf courses actually consume less water than homeowners and development areas. The computer systems are programmed so you only put in the amount of water that comes out during the day. Golf courses are called the bad guys when it comes to watering, but it’s actually the other way around. We help conserve and keep things cooled down.” l

From competitors to co-creators of hope: Utah trades launch ‘Trades for Wishes’

U.S., Canada and Australia.

By Rebecca Olds r.olds@mycityjournals.com

Businessowners in Utah’s trades are teaming up with Make-A-Wish Utah to help grant children’s wishes in the state and give “the gift of hope” with a program they are deeming “Trades for Wishes.”

Leading the efforts are two would-be competitors — TruePros Heating and Air owner Katy Higgins, A Plus Garage Doors owner Carrie Kelsch, along with ServiceTitan’s brand and marketing lead, Ellen Rohr, and Summer Ehrmann of Make-A-Wish Utah — are joining forces and raising funds that will help grant wishes of Utah children across the state.

“What started as a single moment quickly became something bigger,” Higgins said.

“Other companies began asking how they could be part of it. That’s when we realized this could be more than a one-time effort — it could be a movement.”

That movement was fed by ServiceTitan, a software platform for trades businesses, servicing 13,000 customers across the

Rohr calls Higgins and Kelsch “super ambassadors,” a term she has dubbed for the big potential they have to make a difference with the program. She added that the passion of the trades and the organization of Make-AWish Utah make the whole program possible.

“Make-A-Wish Utah is very organized and formal about how donations are used, so that it’s equitable,” Rohr said. “Kids get a fair shot.”

By the end of April, 11 companies were involved, Ehrmann said, “with new partners making fundraising commitments each week.”

“This community-led initiative brings our mission to life: to grant life-changing wishes for Utah’s kids fighting critical illnesses,” Ehrmann said. “As Make-A-Wish Utah charges nothing for its services and receives no government funding, we rely on the support of Utah communities to grant Utah wishes.”

TruePros worked with Ehrmann and Make-A-Wish Utah to help grant wishes for kids like Kyson last year. The company raised $25,000, earned by setting aside $25 per install. Kyson’s wish was to go to Walt Disney World.

Kelsch also attended a wish proclamation event for Kyson, hosted by Higgins.

Both Higgins and Kelsch have experienced the power of Make-A-Wish Utah, with Higgins’s daughter and Kelsch’s niece and, by extension her daughter, being wish recipients.

Higgins’ 27-year-old stepdaughter, Seattle, had her own wish granted 20 years ago.

Seattle is blind, deaf and mute, and lives full-time with Higgins and her husband. Despite her severe condition, Higgins said they are on “borrowed time” as Seattle is one of the oldest living people with her disease.

Her legacy is cemented at the Make-AWish Utah facility, where her story is featured in the organization’s third scrapbook and her star remains in their ceiling’s constellation.

“The work they do down there is incredible,” Higgins said.

Currently, there are more than 270 Utah children waiting for their wishes to be granted.

The group started “Trades for Wishes” with the conservative goal to raise $100,000 in 2026, $75,000 more than what TruePros raised alone in 2025 for Kyson.

But it has quickly gained traction, and by the end of April, the program has already exceeded Higgins’ starting goal. Now, Kelsch said, they are thinking bigger for the end of the year, closer to the $1 million mark, surpassing all other Make-A-Wish Utah fundraising initiatives.

“I don’t want people to feel like they’re not big enough to contribute, and I don’t want them to feel like they’re too big to contribute,” Higgins said. “This is all about doing your part in your own way and your own time.”

Even after a devastating winter in 2026

due to lack of snow that put financial strain on many small businesses, Higgins is encouraging creative giving, big or small. Each company can work with Make-A-Wish Utah to build a customized fundraising plan tailored to the goals and values of each company.

It’s a way to give back in a different way than Utah’s trade companies are already doing, Kelsch said.

“Think about what the trades have built for you,” Kelsch said. “They build all your houses, they do all the plumbing and the HVAC and the garage doors and roofs — they build communities.”

They are inviting all trade companies in Utah to join “Trades for Wishes” and join in a large celebration on Dec. 12, on the Day of the Trades. At that event, the Trades for Wishes companies and staff will gather to surprise a Utah wish child with the news that their wish will be granted.

Higgins and Kelsch imagine a parking lot full of vans from all trades rounded up, branded apparel everywhere and a grinning kid in the middle of it — really bringing a “human element.”

Ultimately, it comes down to what that grinning kid represents. Medical studies published in the Journal of Pediatric Medicine show that kids who receive wishes do better than kids who don’t. Higgins called it “a gift of hope.”

“We’re the ones taking care of the weather, the sewer, the water, the roofs, the garage doors, the electricity,” Higgins said. “What about the children?” l

South Valley Chamber awards 24 college scholarships

Twenty-four seniors from high schools across the Jordan and Canyons school districts were awarded $1,000 scholarships after completing the South Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Jr. Women in Business program.

The scholarships were made possible through the support of America First Credit Union, with a total of $24,000 awarded.

The yearlong Jr. Women in Business program provides mentorship, education and networking opportunities to help young women prepare for future academic and career success.

“Jr. WIB is an inspiring program filled with such driven young women,” Laura Klarman, manager of marketing and communications at Intermountain Health – Riverton Hospital, said in a release. “It has been so rewarding to watch my daughter learn and grow, and mentoring alongside her has been so fun. The connections and confidence built through this program are invaluable.”

This year, participants volunteered with The Road Home, assisting with a community carnival that raised funds to support individ-

Where and when you can find local parades, drone shows and fireworks throughout the valley this summer season.

By Travis Barton travis.b@thecityjournals.com

From the end of May until late August, cities throughout the Salt Lake Valley celebrate community spirit with parades and carnivals along with local traditions unique to each summer event. Check out this schedule of festival events and plan your summer fun.

SoJo Summerfest – South Jordan

June 2-6, Highland Park (6050 W. Lake Ave.), Mulligans Golf Course and North City Park (11000 S. Redwood Road) www.sjc.utah.gov/199/SoJo-Summerfest

This year’s festivities run almost all week and will feature a Kite Festival, food trucks, Mulligans mini golf and long drive competitions, root beer garden, chalk art, music festival, parade and fireworks.

“I’ve been coming to SoJo Summerfest for many, many years and it’s still one of my favorite traditions,” South Jordan Mayor Dawn Ramsey writes in the city’s Summerfest booklet. “Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been coming for years, there’s something special about being part of it together. Nearly everything is free, thanks to our amazing sponsors, volunteers and staff who make it all happen.”

WestFest - West Valley City

June 17-20, Centennial Park (3100 S. 5405 West) www.wvc-ut.gov/2034/WestFest

The annual celebration of West Valley City’s incorporation features a carnival, parade, talent showcase, a fun run and fireworks on both Friday and Saturday nights.

Fort Herriman Towne Days

June 19-27, W&M Butterfield Park (6212 Butterfield Parkway) and J. Lynn Crane Park (5373 Main St.)

Your 2026 summer festival preview

www.herriman.gov/Towne-Days

Herriman’s grand yearly festival starts Friday June 19 with a 70’s themed Skate the Park, then goes everyday (except Sunday, June 21) until June 27. The fun includes the Herriman Yeti Run, food trucks, car show, speed puzzling tournament, reptile experience, talent show, carnival, Dazzle Dogz, drone show, live music, wiffle ball tournament and fireworks.

Taylorsville Dayzz

June 25-27, Valley Regional Park (5100 S. 2700 West) taylorsvilledayzz.com

It marks 30 years for Taylorsville’s special birthday bash which will feature a parade, petting zoo, carnival, food booths, concerts, 5K, car show and fireworks. Concerts will feature cover bands of Adele, Bee Gees and ABBA. And don’t forget about the skydivers on Saturday night.

Riverton Town Days

June 25-27, July 2-4 Riverton Rodeo Arena and Riverton City Park (12830 S. 1300 West) www.rivertonutah.gov/towndays

This three-day rodeo is part of the heart of Riverton’s annual Town Days. Flag skydivers drop as the highly attended rodeo runs through the weekend. The following weekend features Town Days’ events and activities like a cornhole tournament, state entertainment, street hockey and fireworks.

Western Stampede – West Jordan

July 2-4, Veterans Memorial Park (8000 S. Redwood Road) Westernstampede.com

Independence Day weekend starts in style with West Jordan’s Western Stampede. Thursday marks the rodeo kickoff, carnival and outdoor movie of “National Treasure” followed by a Friday featuring a drone show and Taylor Swift tribute band. This year marks the debut of Stampede Slugfest and Sundown at Ron Wood Park—a one-pitch, overnight softball tournament. July Fourth itself will bring the grand parade, K9 demo and fireworks among other events.

Sandy City Fourth of July

July 4, South Towne Promenade (10000 S. Centennial Parkway) www.sandy.utah.gov/715/Fourth-of-July

car show, food trucks, balance bike race, “Harltey Road” concert and capped with fireworks at 10 p.m.

Freedom Fest Fourth of July –

South Salt Lake

July 4, Fitts Park (3050 S. 500 East)

Freedom Fest begins with a flag ceremony and special rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” followed immediately by the parade. This year’s theme commemorates the 250th anniversary of the country. The parade starts at 2280 S. 300 East and ends at Fitts Park where there will be food, entertainment, kid’s activities and more.

Draper Days

July 10-18, Draper City Park (12500 S. 1300 East) www.draperutah.gov/events-programs/community-events/draper-days

If it’s July, then it’s time for Draper Days. The annual event will feature a 5K race, rodeo, parade, car show, children’s bike parade, amphitheater movie night, horse pull, basketball tournament, pickleball tournament and a Strider bike race.

Butlerville Days – Cottonwood Heights

July 16-18, Butler Park (7500 S. 2700 East)

Rescheduled and no longer coinciding with Pioneer Day, Cottonwood Heights’ annual festival will still feature its parade down Bengal Boulevard, carnival rides, pickleball tournament, chalk art, stage entertainment, car show and fireworks.

Midvale Harvest Days

July 27-Aug. 1 Midvale City Park (425 W. 6th Avenue) engagemidvale.com/2026harvest-days

It runs all day, starting with a flag raising and ending with a firework concert. Inbetween you’ll find a 5K race, fire truck water spray, police K9 show, youth craft fair, mini golf, carnival, BMX bike performers and community entertainment.

Neighborhood block parties kickstart the weeklong celebration on Monday and Tuesday. Wednesday sees the Midvale Arts Council take over with its Hall of Honors and Art Show. A Tyler Library Night comes Thursday before Friday and Saturday shift into top gear with a concert in the park, fun run, pancake breakfast, face painting, Battle Zone, trampoline show, parade and fireworks.

Bluffdale Old West Days

July 30-Aug. 8, Day Ranch Park (15345 S. Puma Mountain Way), Bluffdale City Park (14400 S. 2400 West)

Murray Fun Days

July 4, Murray Park (296 E. Murray Park Ave.) www.murray.utah.gov/2115/ Murray-Fun-Days

It started in 1958 and continues to this day. The famous parade along State Street begins at 8:30 a.m. while the rest of the day features a 5K walk/run, children’s race, chalk art contest, plein art contest, games,

While the Old West Days Rodeo will run July 16-18 at the Bluffdale Equestrian Park, the rest of the festival starts July 30 with the Bluffdale Arts’ production of “The Lightning Thief” until Aug. 3. The pickleball tournament starts July 31. The rest of the week brings a party in the park, youth night, senior dinner, car show, children’s entrepreneur fair, family concert, fireworks and the grand final parade on Aug. 8. l

Nurses honored as profession faces potential shortage across the country

Joyce University, a local nursing school, partnered with Swig to celebrate over 6,000 nurses on May 6, National Nurses Day.

National Nurses Week in May served not only a time to celebrate nurses, but a reminder of the pressures it faces across the country.

Joyce University, a nursing and health sciences school based in Draper, recently commissioned a survey of registered nurses that found 74% felt emotionally exhausted from work multiple times a week. More than half, 53%, said they have seriously considered leaving the profession on a monthly basis.

“Nurses and nursing students give so much of themselves in service to others, and National Nurses Day is an important opportunity to recognize that commitment,” said Tami Rogers, dean of nursing at Joyce University, in a press release.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce report-

ed in 2024 a significant nursing shortage with projected job openings per year until 2032 to be 193,100. But only 177,400 additional nurses are expected to enter the workforce during that same timespan, less than what is needed to fill one year of projected openings. The report stated burnout and an aging population as two of the reasons for the significant gap.

To combat these challenges, Joyce University honored 6,602 nurses and nursing students on May 6, National Nurses Day, by partnering with Swig to offer a free 24 oz. drink or cookie across the state. The university also sent Starbucks gift cards to all regional students and delivered special gifts to its clinical partners, recognizing the broader community that helps support and strengthen the next generation of nurses.

“We were proud to celebrate our nursing community this year and to show our appreciation not only to those already serving on the frontlines, but also to the students and clinical partners helping shape the future of healthcare,” Rogers said. l

Utah’s story, all in one place

The new Museum of Utah opens June 27, offering a comprehensive look at the people, cultures and events that shaped the state.

By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Along-awaited

addition to Utah’s cultural landscape is getting its finishing touches to welcome the public.

The Museum of Utah will officially open its doors June 27, offering a free, comprehensive look at the state’s history — something Director Tim Glenn said has been missing until now.

“We haven’t had a state history museum that explores the whole history of the state of Utah,” he said. “We’ve got places that tell chunks of history so this will be the first time we’ll have that place.”

Located on the Capitol complex, the museum aims to complement existing institutions in the area, such as the Natural History Museum, Utah Museum of Fine Arts and the Pioneer Memorial Museum.

Rather than organizing the exhibits chronologically, the Museum of Utah is built around four themed galleries: Becoming Utah; Connecting Utah; Building Utah; and Inspiring Utah.

“Within those themes, there are all sorts of stories,” Glenn said. “We’ll talk about everything from the Jarvik heart to Philo T. Farnsworth to the Browning brothers, stories which don’t relate specifically to the themes of some of the other museums.”

Interactive exhibits will include experiences such as “Food is Love,” exploring Utah’s beloved traditions including fry sauce and funeral potatoes, and “Dance like a Utahn,” highlighting dance as cultural expression. Visitors also can explore labor history, outdoor recreation as an industry and creative arts across communities.

The museum was born over many years, but this vision has been in progress the past four years as organizers gathered input across the state.

“It truly was a team effort,” he said. “We went out into the community to talk about this museum and to hear from people.”

From focus groups with educators and community

members to consulting with all eight federal recognized tribes in Utah to collaborating with cultural organizations and local leaders, the goal was set: ensure every Utahn can see themselves reflected in the museum.

“If you are somebody who is a fifth generation Utahn or you’re somebody who moved here last year, you can find yourself in this space,” Glenn said.

However, with the museum spanning a limited 15,000 square feet, the final building of the original design Richard K.A. Kletting created for the Capitol complex, he said it’s tricky to tell the story in the space.

“When you think about the whole history of this state, the breadth and depth, and then, you try to fit that into a space about the size of a Trader Joe’s, it’s a huge challenge,” Glenn said.

Despite that, visitors will be able to explore a variety of artifacts and exhibits, including Utah’s first state flag; the land speed record car, the Mormon Meteor III; a canvas canoe used by Kanab legislator Dave Rust, a “boss bike” used in the Silver King mine, a mural preserved from the Intermountain Indian School; Olympic memorabilia, a pioneer handcart and Utah trivia, including a rubber chicken representing a Utah company that produces more than any other

place in the world.

The museum also will contain folk art, fine art, performing art and cultural exhibits, with more than 800 objects displayed.

“What we heard from kids is they want to see artifacts,” Glenn said. “Everybody’s got access to information on their phones, but they don’t have access to is the artifacts.”

In addition to permanent galleries, the museum will include a temporary exhibition space which will rotate two or three times per year. The first exhibit, however, will remain for a full year and will bring together America 250 and then the peoples of Utah, a continuation of the original peoples bicentennial project.

“The idea is this museum would be living and always changing,” he said.

He said one of the biggest advantages of the museum is its accessibility with free admission, funded by the Utah Historical Society, and with extended hours for working families. The museum will be open on Mondays, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Tuesdays through Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Research access to collections can be made by appointment.

The museum also will serve as a resource for students. Fourth-grade and seventh-grade teachers, who instruct Utah history, already have been scheduling field trips for the upcoming year, he said.

Glenn, who graduated from West Jordan High and the University of Utah, has worked in the Utah cultural sector for more than 15 years. He said while the opening marks a major milestone, it’s just the beginning.

“We’re excited to see people in this space,” he said. “I love how all themes are totally different, but what they have in common is they are places where we come together as a community and gather and learn about ourselves.”

Ultimately, the museum’s goal is simple: spark curiosity, deepen understanding and connect Utahns to their shared history — all under one roof.

“I hope people walk away feeling like they learned something new and are interested in diving deeper,” Glenn said. “Utah has a lot more stories than people think.” l

Student teams tackle real-life archaeology challenges at FIRST LEGO League event

Several teams advanced to national and international competitions.

By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Several local FIRST LEGO League teams earned invitations to national and international competitions after strong performances at the state contest this spring, showcasing months of innovation, coding and teamwork on this year’s “Unearthed” theme.

Among the teams advancing are Code Crusaders, a homeschool team from Sandy, headed to the FIRST World Championships in Houston; B4 from Beehive Academy in Sandy, competing at the Canada Cup of Robotics in Ontario; Kinetic Koalas of Riverton, traveling to the Georgia Ramblin’ Robots Invitational; Panda Bots from Taylorsville, invited to the WAFFLE Invitational in Massachusetts; and BeeSTAR from Beehive Academy, advancing to the American Robotics Invitational in New Jersey.

FIRST LEGO League introduces students, ages 5 to 16, to hands-on STEM learning through robotics, research and engineering challenges. Teams design and code LEGO-based robots to compete while also

creating innovative projects tied to a yearly theme. This season, students explored archaeology and excavation-related issues, developing solutions for issues faced in the field.

The Panda Bots developed the “Pain Relief Sifter,” a portable device designed to reduce the strain archaeologists experience while sifting dirt for artifacts.

“It provides relief to the back, shoulders and neck,” said seventh-grader Jacob Fletcher. “Archeologists stand and shift dirt back and forth for hours; they lift buckets of dirt that weight about 20 pounds.”

Sixth-grader Parker Millington said the team consulted experts while developing the project.

“We talked to two archeologists and they both said that was one of the worst problems for archeologists so we worked on a way to improve it for them,” he said.

Seventh-grader Tanner Adams said they used engineering skills to help them while fourth-grader Rilynn Millington said they focused on portability with removable legs.

“We made the device portable, which is something they wanted,” she said.

Parker added: “There’s wheels on it so the archeologists can move it over different terrains. I’m glad we made something they

can use.”

Teammate Byron Hospodarsky, a fifth grader, said he learned skills beyond engineering: “I’ve learned how to work together better by working with many people on our team.”

Students at Plymouth Elementary in Taylorsville designed a device that scans the ground for artifacts and collects them with a scoop while recording locations for archaeologists to revisit later.

“We brainstormed ideas and then talked to archeologists” to come to the idea, said fifth-grader Ben Moss.

Academy Park’s “Artifacts” from West Valley City had earned first place at an early February competition to qualify for state.

Fifth-grader Ailynn Galeano said the project was “intriguing” while her teammate, fifth-grader Hailey Vera admitted building the robot wasn’t easy. She learned persistence from coding the team’s robot.

“We had to keeping trying over and over to get it right,” she said.

Eighth-grader Athena Meek, with St. John the Baptist Middle School in Draper, said she learned “a lot of patience and even if you go over things several times, things can still mess up.”

The “Sandworms” team created an RC car prototype to transport and sift dirt over rocky terrain.

“I like to use my brain so I like that FLL is more ‘brain enthusiastic,’” she said. “I like to research and use science so FLL is a good match.”

Olympus Junior High’s Skelexcavators consulted the Natural History Museum of Utah while refining multiple versions of their prototype.

“It’s been challenging, but I like solving problems,” eighth-grader Everett Sorenson said.

Eighth-grader Alden Webb added he enjoys his teammates: “I like the people on the

team, who, like me, like coding and problem-solving.”

Butler Middle School’s eighth-grade Sean Olson, sixth-grader Conlan Pugh and seventh-grade Aymeric Barbier shared their team consulted historians to learn about 100,000 land mines remaining from both World War I and II in Asia, South America and Europe impact people’s lives yet today. So they created a blueprint to destroy those without ruining artifacts.

Eighth-grader Caspean Sciotto-Eggers said with little information, they had to research their topic.

“The judges liked our project, because it was unique; not many people are talking about land mines,” she said. “It’s an interesting topic because you don’t think about how there are still landmines from the wars that make places unhabitable.”

Beehive Academy’s BeeSTAR team created a sunscreen and skin-protection lotion for archaeologists working long hours outdoors in dry conditions.

“Our project helps us to stand out,” seventh-grader Tucker Holt said. “With innovation projects, everyone expects something big and flashy. When we say, ‘we made sunscreen,’ it’s a bit hard to sell, but we also educate and sell that skincare is important.”

Teammate Ellenore Roberts, an eighth-grader, added the formula they developed and tested has a color factor in the sunscreen.

“So when it fades, it reminds you to reapply, so you don’t get burned,” she said.

Eighth-grader Poorri Nandiraju said the experience taught teamwork and leadership.

“Each one of us on our team has strengths and weaknesses,” she said. “I’ve learned from my different teammates, and I’ve liked learning different building and coding strategies. Each of us are a leader in our way.”

Panda Bots’ fourth-grader Tate Adams summed up his experience: “I like it all.” l

How Mountain Ridge wrestling became repeat state champions

In five years, the Sentinels went from a team with 13 girls to back-to-back 6A state champions.

By Travis Barton travis.b@thecityjournals.com

Five years ago, the Mountain Ridge girls wrestling team had less members than there are weight classes—13 girls, 14 weight classes.

Now in 2026, it has 32 girls, four individual winners and back-to-back team state championships.

“It’s a testament to the hard work and time that our wrestlers and coaches put into this season,” said head coach Brandon Birch.

The Sentinels capped their season in February with a repeat 6A state title after winning the first last year. If they went under the radar for the 2025 title, then there was a target on their back this year.

“The journey this year was different than last year. Last year we believed in ourselves and knew we could do something special, but it was probably a surprise to a lot of people,” Birch said. “This year we came in as the champs, and we had a good team coming in that was expected to be a contender.”

Growth spurt

Rewind to the year girls wrestling was sanctioned, Mountain Ridge’s last in 5A before joining the 6A ranks in 2021. It was Birch’s first year coaching and of the 13 girls they had, three had wrestling experience.

“We often had to forfeit three to five weight (classes),” he recalled citing inevitable injuries and some wrestlers being the same weight.

Both numbers and experience are increasing. They were two deep at almost every weight this year, Birch said, giving more opportunities to score in tournaments. They also had at least half the team with wrestling experience.

Because it’s a tough sport, it can at times be difficult retaining wrestlers.

“We try to create a great team atmosphere so that girls will want to stay and be a part of something special,” he said. “Having a great team atmosphere does a lot to attract other girls to want to join our team.”

One example might be senior Evalyn Lenahan.

She moved to Utah during junior year having wrestled since her freshman year in Arizona when her best friend and her thought it would be funny to try out.

“I hadn’t found a sport I really loved and after my first wrestling practice I knew the sport was perfect for me and surprisingly I loved everything about it,” Lenahan said.

But she said the relocation took a toll on her mental health and decided to take a break.

Then last summer, she went to a Moun-

tain Ridge wrestling camp.

“The girls were so kind, and I loved the environment that I was in,” she said.

While the culture set the tone for Lenahan, she also appreciated the quality of coaching. “I loved that the coaches really went into detail about specific moves and had us practice over and over until we had it completely down.”

Another transfer arrived in a roundabout way and stayed.

Senior Brooklyn Eagar came via Providence Hall, where she wrestled as a freshman in the 100-pound class and took fifth. Her dad was the coach and her brother was a senior wrestler at the school so she decided to give wrestling a try.

Her sophomore year saw her experiment with a different sport joining the swim team at Mountain Ridge just down the road. But she couldn’t stay away from the mat.

“I just loved the creativeness of wrestling,” she said. “You just have your own unique style in wrestling that works best for you.”

During her time at Providence Hall, she said practices were combined with the girls and boys since the teams were small. She enjoys the “sister camaraderie” that comes from just girls in practice.

“I think that came more in my senior year too, just that more family community with all these wonderful, amazing girls that were on my team,” she said.

Over the hump

Good vibes might be a precursor, but they don’t always guarantee results as the Sentinels began knocking on the door taking fourth (2022) then fifth (2023) then second (2024).

Last year they finally reached the mountain top. Their wrestling experience paid off as Birch said the girls were great leaders who could now teach the new girls “how to com-

pete, wrestle their best and get mentally prepared for what wrestling brings.”

He cited another big reason: the coaching staff. Jon Eagar, Zan Elder, Jim Birch, Paul Hulet, Ryan Lenahan, Logan Eagar and Miyo Strong are all “fantastic coaches,” he said.

Evalyn Lenhan was quick to note their help and support. “As athletes part of a sport, you spend a lot of time with your coaches and we got so lucky with who chose to be our coaches,” she said.

In 2025, the team had 14 wrestlers place at state with one winner in Olivia Merino, and the team cracked 200 points for the first time finishing with 221 and a 34-point victory.

Both Eagar and Birch pointed to the team’s toughness and conditioning as primary qualities for winning last year. For 2026, the journey was a little different.

They attributed this year’s evolution to their skills and technique. With the quality of the sport improving every year—it’s one of the fastest growing sports in the country— they needed to work smarter, not just harder.

Eager said they improved their takedowns and the moves to set up those takedowns, along with escapes to avoid getting pinned which loses you more points.

They also had to overcome injuries as several title contending wrestlers had to deal with fractured hands or shoulder injuries.

That work paid off, as the 2026 team had four individual champs, five reach the finals and seven more place.

“We knew this was going to test our depth and grit. Our girls responded in a way that was absolutely picture perfect,” Birch said. “For us to step up when we were not at full strength and take state was a perfect end to a great season and showed that our team is learning those base principles our coaches try to teach. I’m just so proud of our girls.”

Eagar, who fell in the semifinals a year ago to finish third, took home a state title in the 105-pound class. She (along with Olivia Merino and Bella Birch) did so without surrendering a single point all tournament.

“It was really fulfilling,” Eagar said. “I’ve worked really hard, and just seeing all that hard work show was really fun.”

For Lenahan, who will wrestle next year at Southern Virginia, her journey to a state championship in the 135-pound class saw her overcome a struggling mentality. “I would always put myself down and think every other girl out there was better than me.”

But her positive thinking and help from the coaches led to a state tournament where she “felt less nervous and I even felt excited for my really hard matches.”

“When I first won state it felt surreal,” she said. “I was first of all so grateful I had made it that far, but when I got my hand raised on that mat, life did not feel real.”

Birch said Lenahan took state in one of the toughest weight divisions.

“It was fun to watch her realize just how good she was as she went through the season,” he said.

Family and future

Both Lenahan and Eagar said how special it was winning with their dads on the coaching staff.

For Eager, whose older brother was also a coach, it was a family affair. Her younger sister Alayna is a sophomore who also competed this year. Brooklyn Eagar, who plans to serve a mission starting this summer, credited her family extensively for helping reach her goal.

After practice, Eagar’s dad would spend another hour working with her on skill development. They have a mat in their basement where she would practice with her brother, her sister and even her mom at times.

“They were such a big help this year,” Brooklyn said, adding they have a sister in fifth grade who also wrestles.

When Birch started coaching, he set a goal to win a state championship.

“Although winning a title was a goal of mine, winning back-to-back championships is rare and is very hard to do with so many great teams. I’m just thankful I’ve been able to work at, and be a part of something special like this,” he said.

The work doesn’t stop as the sport gets more competitive. But Birch has a strong contingent returning next year that includes: Amelia Jenkins, Faith Bowen, Abbigail Tasini, Tara Zakeri, Kiara Tanaka, Tina Lotulelei, Bella Birch, Maya Strong, Victoria Sousa, Kayda Rowberry, Tori Trewartha, Maddie Martin, Abby Birch, Alauna Begaye, Kassy Farnworth, Brielle Stromberg and Hailey Pender.

“We have a lot of talented girls coming back,” he said, “and I’m looking forward to seeing what they can do.” l

Dancing through the night as inclusion takes the spotlight

By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Like most students, Jordan Barlow had dropped off a poster for his date, inviting her to the dance. They dressed up and arrived at Siempre in Draper, where they danced with peers for hours that night.

His favorite song was “A boyfriend” by Justin Bieber.

“I liked the dance part (of the night),” said Barlow, a Life Skills Academy student.

His mother, Mandy Barlow, said he and his friends in a hip-hop group choreographed a routine to it.

“They have a really cute dance to it,” she said. “They stole the show.”

March 19 was “A Night Full of Stars,” an all-abilities young adult prom, but one which welcomed all ages. Students in the adult transition programs from Canyons, Granite, Jordan, Alpine as well as some who aren’t enrolled in a program came to boogie down. Peers danced alongside them and even some parents joined in the fun.

Mandy Barlow said the goal was simple: create an experience that was special.

“I didn’t want it to be at a school gym or at a church; I wanted these kids to have a beautiful experience,” she said. “They don’t get the opportunity to go to dances very often, so I wanted them to have a really nice, fun experience.”

Jordan’s mother began planning months in advance, teaming up with Anne Kimble, Sammy’s Buddy program executive director. Together, they combined community connections and volunteers for the event.

“I started reaching out and it all came together,” Mandy Barlow said. “A lot of people wanted to be involved.”

Kimble said the need for an event like this becomes clear after students leave high school.

“Once these kids graduate from high school, they lose so much of the peer and community connection they’ve had,” she said. “They no longer have unified sports. They don’t have inclusive dances and those opportunities to connect with peers of all abilities on a regular basis. One of the needs we see so clearly is that young adults with disabilities often don’t have the consistent opportunities for social connection after they leave high school. They need spaces where they feel a sense of belonging, where they can build real friendship, and where they’re not simply included, but have the chance to be celebrated.”

Local businesses and people donated or discounted their services, making it a special night. Nearby CTEC cosmetology students provided hair styling and even community members donated formal wear. Volunteers, many of them attending Salt Lake Community College, University of Utah and Utah Valley University, helped organize, set up and run the event and danced alongside their peers.

them to connect and gain confidence and also continue developing independence. It allowed these young adults to feel independent and feel ‘This is my night out, my night to shine,’” Kimble said.

She said events such as this dance don’t just impact those who attend; they shape the broader community, helping volunteers and sponsors better understand what true inclusion feels like.

“I love everybody was dancing, there’s no inhibition. Everyone’s happy. Everyone dances with everybody. Everyone’s included,” Mandy Barlow said.

She also appreciated that the DJ knew “not to play it as loud as what maybe he would play like at a high school dance because it can be overwhelming.”

A quiet room was set up, giving dancers a break and some options to make bracelets or color. Some of the young adults opted for cotton candy.

“People loved that and there were some cute cotton candy sculptures,” Mandy Barlow said.

For Kimble, the night showed what intentional inclusion can look like, not just inviting people in, but putting them at the center of the experience.

“I loved seeing these kids participating; they weren’t on the outside looking in. They were at the center of the whole experience, and they were creating memories in a space that was specifically designed for them to enjoy, to shine,” she said.

The prom also gave many young adults a sense of independence. Some parents opted to step back, allowing participants to enjoy a night that was their own.

“This was the first all-abilities young adult prom we know of which supported young adults, and it created a place for

“One of the things I loved about it is how it was equally impactful for the broader community. We loved bringing in sponsors who were so excited to be a part of this, and it allowed us to show how when students of all abilities come together, barriers and misconceptions can fade,” Kimble said. “Peer mentors, volunteers and community members, who hadn’t experienced something like this before, walked away with a deeper understanding of true inclusion, not just as an idea, but something they experienced firsthand. It was joy from start to finish. I truly feel events like this can help shift culture when we prioritize belonging. This was just one night, but I feel like when we provide more opportunities like this, it can carry into everyday life. This all-abilities prom was so much more than a fun night; it was a powerful example of what happens when we intentionally create spaces and opportunities where everyone belongs.”

Mandy Barlow hopes this is just the beginning.

“I can see it getting even bigger next year as more people learned about it, more wanted to be a part of it — and it was amazing,” she said. “The word of the dance spread. In this community, having something adults can go to and have fun — it spreads like wildfire.” l

Turning the page: What Utah readers are reaching for this summer

By Holly Curby hello@hollycurby.com

As summer settles into the Salt Lake valley, libraries, book clubs and quiet evenings on the porch are filling with stories. But beyond entertainment, summer reading continues to play an important role in learning, growth and connection. According to educators in the Canyons School District, children who don’t read during the summer can lose academic progress, but even small daily habits can make a difference. Utah libraries are working to bridge that gap through statewide programs and local initiatives designed to keep readers engaged.

The Utah State Library Division emphasizes that summer reading programs “help children and teens retain and enhance their reading skills over the summer” and “foster a love of reading” while building confidence and supporting education.

Reading isn’t just about academics; it also supports everyday life skills. Librarian Faye Fischer wrote in her article “Read-a-thons, Reading Goals, and Literacy Initiatives in Libraries” that reading can “lower stress, boost communication skills and keep your brain sharp.” That broader impact is one reason many readers are reaching for books that offer both enjoyment and meaning this summer. Librarians and reading programs across Utah suggest mixing genres to keep reading fresh:

For inspiration and intentional living:

• “Face-Lift: Embracing Hope Through Your Heartaches” by Holly Curby — A reflective, faith-centered look at overcoming life’s challenges.

For personal growth:

• “The Noticer” by Andy Andrews — A reminder of how perspective can shape life’s challenges.

For leadership and growth:

• “Atomic Habits” by James Clear — A guide to building better habits through small changes.

• “Unreasonable Hospitality” by Will Guidara — Lessons on service, leadership and team culture.

For engaging fiction:

• “Redeeming Love” by Francine Rivers — A bestselling story of love and redemption.

For families and children:

• “The Wild Robot” by Peter Brown — A story of belonging and resilience.

• “Harry Potter” series by J.K. Rowling — A classic series that continues to engage young readers.

Programs like those at Utah State University Libraries even highlight peer recommendations, where one student described a

favorite book as “beautifully crafted… a story about love and understanding.”

Libraries are offering creative ways to keep reading engaging. Programs through the Salt Lake County Library and other local systems include reading challenges, story times and prize incentives. The Utah Education Network notes that “reading is more than a great escape: it boosts brain power and feeds curiosity.” Community businesses such as Chuck E. Cheese and bookstores such as Barnes & Noble have often joined in, offering summer reading promotions that encourage families to stay involved. This summer the county libraries will be offering a summer reading program themed “Unearth a Story” from May 29 through July 31. All finishers receive a free book, a coupon sheet for local attractions and entry into a prize drawing. There are also optional bonus round challenges. Visit thecountylibrary.org/calendar for details and more information.

Ultimately, summer reading remains one of the simplest ways to support learning and well-being at any age. Whether it’s a child discovering a new favorite series or an adult finding encouragement in a meaningful book, the impact can last far beyond the season. Utah libraries continue to make that possible as they provide access, programs and opportunities that help turn reading into a lifelong habit. And this summer, across the valley, that story is still unfolding — one page at a time.

Additional book recommendations can be found in the book club on www.HollyCurby.com and Holly’s Highlights podcast season 3 episodes 10 and 11, available wherever you stream podcasts. Happy reading! l

Child abuse prevention starts with strong families

Whatif the most effective way to protect children isn’t just responding after harm occurs—but preventing that harm in the first place?

That question has guided much of my work over the past three and a half years, after Utah Gov. Spencer Cox asked me to help create Utah’s Office of Families. The mission was simple, but deeply important: strengthen families to improve outcomes for children.

At the beginning, I spent time listening to experts, advocates and families across our state. I wanted to understand what the data showed about strong families and how we could replicate those conditions more consistently.

I also had to acknowledge something personal. I grew up in a stable home with two loving parents. I didn’t experience abuse, food insecurity or instability. As a child, I assumed that was normal and that most homes looked like mine. As an adult, I learned that isn’t the case.

Research on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) shows a clear pattern—the

more trauma a child experiences, the more challenges they face later in life. Health outcomes, education and employment each can be affected. The data doesn’t just tell a story; it points to a path forward. If we want better outcomes, we must reduce trauma early.

That realization led me to one of the most promising, evidence-based solutions I’ve seen: home visiting programs.

Parenting is hard. For many families— especially those facing economic stress, isolation or past trauma—it can feel overwhelming. Home visiting programs meet parents where they are, literally and figuratively. Trained professionals work directly with families, helping them build emotional

regulation skills, develop healthy coping strategies, and strengthen relationships with their children.

Organizations like Salt Lake County Health Department and Prevent Child Abuse Utah are leading this work in our state. They serve hundreds of families each year, helping parents become the parents they want to be. And the results matter— these programs are proven to reduce child abuse and neglect.

The need is real. In 2025, Utah saw more than 51,000 reports of child abuse or neglect. One in seven children will experience sexual abuse before turning 18. And in the vast majority of cases, the harm comes from someone the child knows and trusts— often a parent or relative.

Those numbers are difficult to hear. But they also reinforce why prevention matters.

Years ago, I had the opportunity to serve on the board of Prevent Child Abuse Utah, where I saw another powerful prevention tool in action: school-based education. Through age-appropriate lessons, elementary students are taught how to recognize,

resist and report abuse. These simple but powerful principles give children something invaluable—a voice. And sometimes, that voice is what keeps them safe.

Thanks to changes in state law and the generosity of donors, these programs are reaching more children than ever before. But access is still not universal. Too many children are missing out on the education that could help protect them.

Prevention doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when communities decide to invest in it.

Strong families are not just a private matter—they are a public priority. When we support parents, teach children and invest in early intervention, we change the trajectory of lives. We reduce suffering before it starts.

Each of us has a role to play. Whether it’s giving, volunteering or simply sharing this work with others, small actions add up to meaningful change.

Because every child deserves to understand their worth, their boundaries and their voice. Every child deserves the chance to grow up safe from harm.

Asteachers pop the champagne and schedule full-body massages, mothers are slowly descending into madness. Summer break stretches ahead like a sunburned, melted-fudgesicle 10K, with lots of family time. So much family time.

As a young mother in the 20th century, summer vacation was a blur of wet towels, lost flip-flops, and popsicle sticks stuck to couch cushions. My daughters spent the days selling Kool-Aid to neighbors, watching hours of PBS’s “Arthur,” and fighting nonstop.

I tried to keep a schedule, but it flew out the window the first day, along with my common sense and sanity. Although we went to parks, pools, hiking trails, libraries, zoos and museums, my daughters were always “sooo bored!” It was like trying to fill a bottomless, thankless pit.

Looking back, I was so lucky. Not because I could spend so much “quality time” with my kids, but because I wasn’t working out of the home. It was absolutely exhausting, but I didn’t have to worry about what my kids would do during the summer.

The school calendar was not created for single mothers, full-time working parents or children who need snacks every five minutes. It was designed for farmers who churn their own butter and rise at dawn to feed chickens.

Today, moms are scrambling to find camps, sitters, daycare and programs to keep

Popsicles and pressure

Peri Kinder Life and Laughter

kids occupied during the summer break because many mothers have full-time jobs and can’t take the summer off.

People rarely ask fathers, “What will your kids do all summer? How will you balance your job and family?” Nope. Everything usually falls to moms, most of whom can’t afford camps or additional daycare costs.

I researched “Summer strategies for working moms” and was given ideas like 1) hire a summer nanny, 2) enroll in pricey camps early, or 3) rent children to an influencer.

Who do they think these mothers are? Kardashians? I added a fourth option: quit your job and live in a van by the river.

When my daughters were little, there were several working moms in the neighborhood and their kids would hang out with us all summer. They were part of the noisy, sticky clan, constantly bickering about who got grass in the blow-up pool.

Now, mothers are anxiously waiting for their lottery numbers to hit or a magical Mary

Poppins character to show up and take control of their unruly children. Barring that, there aren’t a lot of viable options, especially in this economy.

Grandparents and other family members alleviate some of the summer schedule strain, but with about 10 weeks of out-of-school time, mothers often resort to late-night spiraling and stress eating.

It’s not all hopeless. Companies are finally realizing they’ll have happier, healthier, more productive female employees if they offer flexibility.

Progressive CEOs provide summer childcare stipends or offer discounts to local camps. Work-from-home options, summer PTO bonuses, flexible start/end times and early-out Fridays would make a mother’s summer a gajillion times easier, as well as fathers who need

scheduling help for the school break.

Maybe that’s the answer! Instead of asking companies to make things easier for moms, let’s say the dads need help. Businesses will immediately build on-site splash pads, create kid-friendly office spaces and partner with local teams to host summer-long sports camps.

Somewhere along the way, summer break turned into a summer breakdown. Parents aren’t asking for luxury vacations, just a bit of time to sit by the pool, yell at kids to stop yelling and maybe even pop some champagne. We should be able to make that work.

Peri Kinder is an award-winning columnist and journalist who has written for The City Journals since 2004. She also hosts the Life & Laughter podcast. Peri can be reached at peri.k@thecityjournals.com.