Riverton Journal | May 2026

Small Business Section

She works hard, and she works out for the money

By Mimi Darley Dutton | m.dutton@mycityjournals.com

Sean Wilson has owned a Jazzercise franchise for 30 years, survived a recession and a pandemic, and she perseveres because of her passion for the program and its people.

Asthe Donna Summer song says, “She works hard for the money.” In this case, she works out for the money, to music by Pitt Bull, Usher, Taylor Swift and more. She’s Seandra “Sean” Wilson, owner of Jazzercise Riverton Fitness Center, and she just celebrated 30 years in business.

Most of the money Wilson makes goes right back into the business. In addition to operating her Jazzercise studio, she also cleans houses. But it’s her passion for the fitness program and the people she’s met along the way that keep her working hard.

“I do it for the love of it. And no matter who you are or what phase of life you’re in, you have to exercise. For me, it’s almost healthcare at this point rather than self-care,” she said.

Rewind to 1989; Wilson was a young

Meet us at The Lake Break

Daybreak’s newest destination spot on the lake! Where lake views, good food, brunch vibes, cocktails, and a stylish crowd all come together. From sunny lunches to golden hour drinks, it’s the spot to relax, cele brate, and soak in the atmosphere.

Stone Ridge’s new Dental Suite offers:

• Advanced digital imaging

• Two stations allowing for accommodation of multi-pet families

• Relaxed, quiet environment

• State of the art equipment

• Advanced care including root canals and sealings

mom living in West Valley. “I was seeking out exercise after my first baby. Almost the first minute of the first class, I just knew I wanted to be an instructor. I started saving something like $5 per paycheck for six years to come up with the $600 franchise fee. (Wilson explained you must purchase a franchise to use the Jazzercise name and choreography.) I was a customer first for six years,” she said. “Back in the day,” she remembers working out to the music of both Michael and Janet Jackson, Prince and others.

In 1994, Wilson and her family moved to Riverton. “There was no Jazzercise, there weren’t even gyms,” she said. She missed the camaraderie and community she’d found

Suffering from Depression, Anxiety, or OCD?

• NOT medicine

• NOT shock therapy

• NOT invasive

• IS safe and effective

• IS COVERED by most insurance “I

taken 11 different medications without any relief… NeuroStar treatment has helped me bring my life back… with a happiness that I’ve never experienced before” ~TODD

Join us in celebrating National EMS Week! We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your dedication and service to our communities. In celebration of National EMS Week, we invite you to join us for a free BBQ.

Riverton Hospital Thanks:

• South Jordan City Fire Stations 61, 62, 63, 64

• West Jordan City Fire Stations 52, 53, 54, 55

• Unified Fire Authority Station 103 (Herriman)

• Unified Fire Authority Station 115 (Copperton)

• Unified Fire Authority Station 120 (Riverton)

• Unified Fire Authority Station 121 (Riverton)

• Unified Fire Authority Station 123 (Herriman)

• Unified Fire Authority Station 124 (Riverton)

• Gold Cross Ambulance

• Bluffdale City Fire Stations 91 and 92

• Riverton City Police Department

• Herriman City Police Department

• South Jordan City Police Department

• West Jordan City Police Department

COMMON GROUND

I can’t afford YOUR tax bill

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.

Thousands of Utahns put down their phones from their doomscrolling and rage-baiting, to create vulgar poster boards and attend the No King rallies. Because Salt Lake City found it acceptable to shut down blocks of State Street, I watched the crowd waving their signs and chanting as they made their way to the State Capitol.

It was the weekend, and I wanted to be home. I had no desire to sit behind a police roadblock, watching people chanting and waving their signs. But I was working that day, or at least trying to work.

This was the end of a 60-hour work week for me, making sure we covered expenses and payroll for my business, trying to eke out just enough for me to get my bills covered. Then a question took over, a question that nearly every middle-aged, middle-income man finds themselves asking, “What am I doing here? Why am I working so hard?”

Could it be that I’m working so hard just to pay the bills of others?

Look at the facts. The national debt is $40 trillion. The Utah State Budget is over $31 billion. Salt Lake County increased property taxes by 14.65%, with a budget of over $2 billion.

How did we get here?

Let’s look close to home. Let’s start with Salt Lake County. We have a nine-member council, with five republicans, four democrats and a Democratic mayor.

Collectively (8-1), the council approved a $2 billion budget that significantly raised property taxes.

Earlier this year, Salt Lake County Council Members tried to cut the budget, proposing the shuttering of a county-operated senior center and child care facility. Then, all those who have had their hands out for

RIVERTON TEAM

The Riverton Journal is a monthly publication distributed directly to residents via the USPS as well as locations throughout Riverton. The views and opinions expressed in display advertisements do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions held by Loyal Perch Media or the City Journals. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the owner.

© 2026 Loyal Perch Media, Inc.

John J. Walker Common Ground

years popped out of the cookie-jar, insisting they keep getting their subsidized child care or, in some instances, their jobs.

I watched the parents argue for continued services at below market rates, as if society and the taxpayers were somehow responsible for providing them with subsidized child care.

The same tiny violins were played throughout the legislative session earlier this year, with state legislators lined up to bring bills that would stick the Utah taxpayers with subsidizing or paying more money for child care, more money for property tax deferment/credits and more money for down payments for first-time home buyers, paying more money for Medicaid, more money for the homeless, more money for Title 1 schools, mental health treatments and food pantries.

Have we lost our conservative way of life here in Utah? Are we slowly drifting away from our base and sliding into the pit that California has become?

How much more can we afford? For me the answer is none.

Common Ground: In my late 20s, I asked a friend a question. What is the difference between a Republican and a Democrat? I will never forget his answer, “If you are a Republican in your 20s, you don’t have a heart; if you’re a Democrat in your 30s, you don’t have a brain.” At the time, it made sense; now that I’m in my 40s, it makes a whole lot less sense.

I like to think most of us have brains and hearts, all at the same time.

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

Big expenses for the general population are best paid for by taxes, such as the military or highways. I am happy to pay my share of taxes to build roads and bridges. I surely don’t want to pay fees at a toll booth.

Sometimes having a monopoly makes sense. I guess the city could stop collecting trash and each home could pay a company to pick up the trash from their home. But I would imagine that would be less efficient and more expensive.

I’m curious to know what residents feel is the purpose of local, county and state government. I think most would agree on roads, bridges, trash pick-up, dumps, water infrastructure and more. But how do we really feel about child care, senior centers, golf courses, zoos, museums, and theaters?

My fear is that when the economy is prospering, we vote yes on these expenses, but now that cost of living has increased and people are struggling more, we are less likely to support these governmental expenses. l

From the Publisher:

Last month, the City Journals launched Common Ground. The column will tackle typically divisive political topics, with a focus to bring the community together. It’s our goal to help community members better understand how their neighbors feel.

We had a large response from readers. With over 100 emails, several mailed letters and phone calls, we consider month one a success. Peri submitted her opinion about local immigration legislation that was proposed during the 2026 legislative session. earlier this year. The responses were largely favorable for the Common Ground article, with both supporting and dissenting comments on Peri’s first

submission. Unfortunately, we had some readers who simply were not interested in hearing how their neighbors felt.

The general tone of the dissenting readers was that Peri did not distinguish between legal and illegal immigrants. One commenter wrote, “First, let’s address the elephant in the room. Kinder’s commentary never used the words illegal immigrants…But illegal immigration is the issue the Utah legislature is trying to address.”

Other dissenting views included the large amounts of tax money spent each year supporting and aiding illegal immigrants.

Those who supported Peri’s comments were appreciative of having their views represented, they also commented about how immigration is the “American Way,” a nation built by immigrants. From a workforce perspective, they said our economy needs immigrants and their willingness to take less desirable jobs at lower wages. Others supported immigration from the perspective that fertility rates in the United States are decreasing and our economy is essentially centered on population growth.

Where people did agree was that Congress needs to work together to create effective policies around immigration on a national level, and that those laws need to be consistently enforced and adhered to from administration to administration. One reader wrote, “This is the key to solving our immigration dilemma.”

Hopefully, this fall as we select candidates to represent Utah in Congress, we all remember that we need Congress to fix the immigration issue.

— Bryan Scott

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

9500 South 500 West, Suite 205 Sandy, UT 84070

PHONE: 801-254-5974

MISSION STATEMENT

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.

& Distributed by

Joint Replacement A New Chapter for Pain-Free Living: Modern Joint Replacement at CommonSpirit

Tired of nagging joint pain dictating your life?

The good news: joint replacement surgery has made significant advancements in recent years. Forget the daunting tales of long hospital stays and arduous recoveries. Surgery today is all about quicker recovery, less pain, and a faster return to the activities you love. This isn’t just about fixing a joint; it’s about reclaiming your freedom, and CommonSpirit is at the forefront of this transformation.

What’s driving this revolution? Minimally invasive techniques. Imagine surgery with smaller incisions and less disruption to your muscles and tissues. This “less is more” approach translates directly into less post-operative pain, reduced blood loss, and significantly shorter hospital stays.

“Joint replacement surgery once meant a long, difficult recovery. Now, thanks to minimally invasive techniques, patients are getting back on their feet and regaining their independence far more quickly, significantly improving their quality of life,” said Michael Blatter, an orthopedic surgeon at Holy Cross Hospital – Davis.

This means you can get back to golfing, gardening, playing with grandkids with renewed vigor.

But the journey to rapid recovery begins even

before surgery. We believe in empowering our patients, and that’s why pre-operative education is a cornerstone of our approach. Our comprehensive classes walk you through every step, covering everything from physical therapy exercises and navigating stairs to home safety. We emphasize two crucial rules: no falls and no infections. Patients consistently tell us they feel better prepared and more confident heading into surgery, which dramatically improves their outcomes.

Our commitment to your well-being extends with Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols. This isn’t just about the surgery itself; it’s a carefully coordinated care pathway. ERAS focuses on preparing your body for a smoother recovery through optimized nutrition, multimodal pain management that reduces reliance on opioids, and getting you up and moving just hours after surgery. It all works together to reduce complications, enhance your comfort, and get you home safely and sooner.

And speaking of cutting-edge, robot-assisted surgery has become a game-changer. While a surgeon is always in control, robotic systems provide unparalleled precision, allowing for less invasive procedures, greater accuracy in implant

placement, and ultimately, quicker recovery times. This advanced technology ensures your joint replacement is tailored with remarkable exactness.

“Many joint replacement procedures can now be done same day. And with our current techniques and technologies, we are able to facilitate a quicker recovery and healing process for joint replacement. Our patients are able to get back to the activities they enjoy more quickly. For many of our patients, joint replacement is a game changer,” said Dr. Kevin Sagers, an orthopedic surgeon at Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley.

At CommonSpirit, we understand that living with joint pain can feel limiting. But with these modern advancements, the path to renewed mobility and a significantly improved quality of life is clearer and more accessible than ever. We’re dedicated to providing not just exceptional medical care, but a supportive and empowering experience that truly makes a difference. If you’re ready to explore how modern joint replacement can transform your life, we invite you to discover the CommonSpirit difference – where your rapid recovery is our priority.

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.

Copper Rock golf championship set for May 14-16

The road to the LPGA Tour begins with the Epson Tour, and again this month, 132 of the best female golfers on the planet will reconvene for the Copper Rock Championship May 14-16 in Hurricane, Utah. Golfers will compete for $250,000 in prize money and points in the season-long Epson Tour standings.

There were 15 players who gained LPGA status during last year’s Epson Tour season, and 13 of them finished in the top 30 at Copper Rock in 2025. Champion Gina Kim won twice on the Epson last season and is now playing on the LPGA Tour.

Exemptions this year went to four golfers:

Navy Hubbs is a junior at Salem Hills High School who has verbally committed to Boise State University. She started playing golf at the age of 12 and quickly developed a passion for the game. Since then, she has enjoyed competing in both local and national tournaments, gaining valuable experience and continually challenging herself against strong competition.

Hubbs is known for her calm presence on the course and the strong work ethic she brings to improving her game. She approaches competition with focus and determination while enjoying the process of learning and growing as a golfer and developing friendships with others on and off the course.

Maria Jose “MJ” Barragan is a standout collegiate golfer for Brigham Young University, known for her consistency, competitiveness and upward trajectory on the women’s golf scene. A native of Morelia, Mexico, Barragan has quickly become one of BYU’s most impactful players, combining sharp scoring with a calm mindset under pressure. She owns a career-low 18-hole score of 68 (4-under) and a lowest 54-hole score of 210 (−6), achieved at the 2024 Red Raider Invitational where she claimed her best finish with a victory. Barragan has also

Utah golf, recognized for her competitive excellence and advocacy for women’s golf. An inaugural member of the women’s golf team at Dixie State University (now Utah Tech), she was a two-time PacWest Conference Champion, Conference Player of the Year and an All-American.

She competed professionally on the Cactus Tour and is a seven-time Utah PGA Women’s Player of the Year (2019-25), a four-time Women’s Utah PGA Match Play Champion, and the 2025 Utah Section Assistant Professional of the Year. Her career includes numerous Utah Section victories, multiple top-10 finishes in both men’s and women’s events, and an overall championship at The Copper Club Open.

posted strong rounds in key events including the opening rounds of the 2025 San Diego State Classic and the 2025 Dr. Donnis Thompson Invitational, and she played a pivotal role in BYU’s 2025 USF Invitational win with a 72-73-69 (214) performance.

Off the course, Barragan is equally distinguished. She’s majoring in pre-business and has earned recognition for her academic achievements, being named to the 2025 CSC Academic All-District team. In amateur golf, she finished runner-up at the 2025 Women’s Mexico Amateur in a dramatic playoff and represented Mexico at the Pan American Games in Paraguay, showcasing her talent on the international stage.

Gabby Barker is a professional golfer known for her resilience, consistency and purpose-driven approach to the game. A standout junior and collegiate competitor, Barker built her foundation through

years of high-level tournament play before turning professional and committing fully to the grind of tour golf. Since turning pro, Barker has competed across multiple professional circuits, including the Epson Tour and various mini tours, steadily gaining experience at the highest levels of women’s golf.

Her career has been shaped by perseverance, adaptability and a deep belief in long-term growth — both on and off the course. In addition to her competitive career, Barker is the first female Native American professional golfer, a milestone she carries with pride and responsibility. She uses her platform to inspire younger athletes, advocate for representation in golf, and share the realities of pursuing a professional sports career.

Haley Sturgeon is an accomplished golf professional and respected leader in

There are always so many things to enjoy during and around the Copper Rock Championship. On Tuesday, May 12, RAM Aerospace presents the 2026 RAM Women’s Business Luncheon. The theme is “Rising Together: Personal Growth and Professional Influence.” Keynote speaker is Stephanie Palmer, Director of Radio Sales for KSL NewsRadio, FM 100.3, The Arrow and the KSL Sports Zone. Whitney Harris, Director of People and Culture at RAM Aviation, will join in that discussion. The luncheon will run from 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m.

A free Junior Clinic will be held on Championship Saturday, May 16, at noon. Signups for the clinic and RSVP for the luncheon can be made at Copperrockchampionship.com. There will also be a free photo booth on Championship Saturday, and food trucks will be onsite including Corn Dog Company and Chicharos Tacos.

To get tickets to the tournament go to Copperrockchampionship.com and choose from General Admission, Club 17 or Copper Rock Club tickets, and the website details those options.

Copper Rock is located at 1567 W. Copper Rock Parkway in Hurricane. l

Beth Colosimo named Director of Salt Lake County’s Office of Regional Development

Colosimo steps into the role guiding Salt Lake County’s Office of Regional Development, where she will help coordinate housing, infrastructure and economic initiatives shaping the region’s future.

By Shaun Delliskave s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

Salt Lake County has appointed Beth Colosimo as the new director of its Office of Regional Development, placing a veteran of economic development, business leadership and state-level policy work at the helm of one of the county’s most wide-reaching planning offices.

The Office of Regional Development, often referred to as ORD, plays a key role in guiding long-term growth across the county. From housing and transportation to environmental policy and economic development initiatives, the office coordinates programs and funding designed to help communities adapt to a rapidly growing population.

For Colosimo, the opportunity to guide that work comes at a pivotal moment.

“What excites me most about joining Salt Lake County, in this role and at this moment, is the unique opportunity to shape what comes

next,” Colosimo said. “When I read the job description, I was intrigued by the diverse aspects of growth and development that are influenced by the Office of Regional Development and the collective community impact of county agencies.”

She said the complexity of county government was part of the appeal of the position.

“I love being pushed out of my comfort zone for my own professional and personal development,” she said. “The complexity of county government—and the challenges that come with it—keep me engaged and continually motivated to deepen my understanding of how government operations work.”

Colosimo said she was also drawn to the professionals already working in the county.

“When I interviewed for the position, I was very impressed by the caliber of professionals on the team and knew I would be surrounded by high-quality people and subject matter experts that would continually sharpen and expand my perspective and knowledge,” she said.

While many residents may not be familiar with the Office of Regional Development by name, its work affects communities across Salt Lake County. Colosimo describes the office as one that focuses on the broader picture of how the county grows.

“Salt Lake County’s Office of Regional

Development helps make Salt Lake County a better place to live, work and grow,” she said. “If you haven’t heard of us before, think of ORD as a team that looks at the big picture for our whole community, not just one city or neighborhood.”

The office works across multiple sectors to plan for long-term growth and stability.

“We focus on planning for the future so our county can handle growth in a smart way,” Colosimo said. “That means working to make housing more affordable, improving transportation options, protecting our natural resources, and supporting a strong local economy.”

Much of that work involves partnerships with cities and organizations across the region.

“I see our role as aiding, encouraging and assisting in responsible and sustainable growth and development in the cities, towns and unincorporated areas we serve,” she said.

Programs administered through the office include grants and funding initiatives designed to support housing, economic development and community planning.

“Our impact is felt in various and often subtle ways,” Colosimo said. “For example, millions of grants and federal dollars are deployed throughout the county to assist in funding housing projects for low- and moderate-income individuals and families.”

Salt Lake County continues to face challenges related to population growth, housing demand and infrastructure planning. Colosimo said addressing those issues requires coordinated policy and long-term thinking.

“The redevelopment challenges facing Salt Lake County—the most populous county in the state—right now are varied, which, for me, is what makes this position interesting and rewarding,” she said.

She noted that shifting federal funding may also present challenges for programs supported by the county.

“With federal funding access shifting and declining, we are challenged to find other funding resources needed to continue the good work we’re doing around Housing Trust Fund, Revolving Loan Funds and economic development initiatives,” she said.

Even so, Colosimo said she believes the county is well positioned to manage growth responsibly.

“I believe Salt Lake County is ahead of the game in its commitment to and diligence around responsible planning, laying the groundwork for a higher quality of life for all community members,” she said.

Regional development efforts often involve cooperation among many agencies and organizations. Colosimo said partnerships will remain central to the county’s work.

“Salt Lake County is part of a large ecosystem that works on shared goals and joint solutions with public, private and nonprofit partners,” she said.

Those partners include municipal

governments, state agencies, transportation planners, housing developers and community groups.

The county also aligns its economic strategies with statewide priorities.

“The Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity has a longstanding focus on specific industries that incent and focus on development in key sectors where we already have strength and expertise,” Colosimo said. “Manufacturing, software, financial services, and life sciences remain strong sectors in Salt Lake County.”

Colosimo’s career spans both the public and private sectors. Her experience includes national telecommunications sales, operating her own small business and working in economic development roles at the Economic Development Corporation of Utah and the Governor’s Office.

She also previously led an entrepreneurship center focused on supporting small businesses.

“Each role taught me how to work with multiple population groups, lead teams, manage large budgets and grants, as well as adapt to change through or because of innovation and strategic planning,” she said.

As she begins her new role, Colosimo said she hopes to build on the work already underway within the county.

“I intend to bring my vast experience into this position to lead a team of new and seasoned Salt Lake County professionals, and to continue guiding the great work that is already underway within the Office of Regional Development,” she said. l

working out in West Valley.

Raised in Los Angeles a child of character actors, Wilson became active with Riverton Community Theatre. Soon after arriving in Riverton, she had saved enough to establish a franchise and passed various certifications required of all Jazzercise instructors including CPR training, physiology, anatomy and choreography tests. She taught her first classes at Riverton Community Center. “I taught five to eight classes per week all by myself,” Wilson said.

Wilson has been active in the Riverton community from the start. In addition to community theatre, she volunteered with the Miss Riverton Scholarship Competition for 25 years. “It’s an educational process I think all young women should go through, teaching them poise, diction and interview skills,” she said. Only in recent years did she step away from volunteering in that capacity. “We have a lot of grandkids and my priorities shifted,” she said.

Fast forward three decades since her move to Riverton and several locations later to accommodate a growing clientele, Wilson now manages a Jazzercise studio with 25 independent contractor instructors offering nearly 50 classes seven days per week. Her customers range in age from 18-84. Along the way, her daughter Alexis also became an instructor.

Rebecca Parker of Herriman has been a customer for four years. Parker said she had foot surgery last year and gained weight as a result, but since returning to Jazzercise, she’s been able to lose the excess weight while adding muscle. “I feel strong and I think that’s key. This is different than going to a gym, there’s no judgement or competition. Sean and her team make the environment amazing. I feel loved and valued here,” Parker said.

Riverton resident Jill Jacobson has been going to the studio for more than three years. “The instructors are upbeat and motivating and I feel better after class. I’m so glad my friend introduced me to Jazzercise,” Jacobson said. Jazzercise was founded 57 years ago by Judi Sheppard Missett. “She invented group fitness. She’s now 82 and still teaches one day a week,” Wilson said. The company is

headquartered in Carlsbad, California and has grown to a woman-led global fitness community with 300 studios (like Wilson’s) and 1,200 locations in 16 countries. Missett’s daughter Shanna Nelson currently serves as CEO & Chief Choreographer and Nelson’s daughter Skyla is a third-generation instructor. The program is deeply rooted in dance and designed to support women’s physical and mental wellbeing with added strength training and jumping to increase bone density. “Jazzercise isn’t stuck in the past. For more than five decades, it is continually renewing itself with current music and exercise science to give strategy to women through life’s stages,” Nelson said in a recent television interview.

Instructors are sent new routines from corporate every month to keep things fresh. Wilson said it can take 15 to 45 minutes just to get choreography down for one new routine. Every class features at least 15 routines designed to work different muscle groups. “When we learn choreography, we also learn the safety features of each movement to show and explain to our customers,” Wilson said. Instructors stand on a stage facing their class, allowing them to cue and demonstrate the moves, meaning they do every movement in a mirror-fashion. When the instructor says “go right” they’re actually going left. “That’s the hardest learning curve for new instructors,” Wilson said.

Wilson’s Jazzercise franchise survived the economic recession of 2008 and the up-

heaval of Covid, though the latter proved difficult to rebuild from. “Corporate allowed us to do videos from our homes during the pandemic, so I taught classes from my dining room and some instructors taught from their basements,” she said. As a small business owner, Wilson arranges for childcare at the studio, cleans the facility, pays the bills, does taxes and payroll, buys the supplies, schedules instructors for nearly 50 weekly classes, and texts the weekly schedule out to her customers. When necessary, she teaches two classes per day when an instructor calls out sick or has a conflict.

But Wilson’s love and appreciation for Jazzercise has only grown. “It’s not about legwarmers and leotards anymore…it was for a time because that was the trend, but trends change and so do we. Exercise science is so advanced these days. Instead of letting trends dictate how and what we do, it’s science-based. We have a physiologist on staff at corporate who reviews every movement for injury prevention and safety before it’s accepted into choreography,” Wilson said.

Wilson’s customers come from Alpine, Saratoga Springs, Bluffdale, Sandy, Draper, West Jordan, South Jordan, Herriman and Riverton, as far west as Magna and as far east as Cottonwood Heights. “We have more than 100 customers with room for many more,” she said.

The studio is located at 1716 W. 12600 South. If interested in a free trial, call or text 801-828-8694. l

Sean Wilson discovered Jazzercise as a young mother and loved it from the first class she attended. She saved for the franchise fee and became a certified instructor three decades ago. Today she employs 25 instructors and offers nearly 50 classes weekly at Jazzercise Riverton Fitness Center. “It’s not about leotards and legwarmers anymore…exercise science dictates what we do,” Wilson said. (Mimi Darley Dutton/City Journals)

Utah artists showcased in Riverton

Artists capture their vivid world view at a local exhibit.

By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com

The Utah Artists Exhibit, held at the Old Dome Meeting Hall (1452 W. 12600 South), featured local artists with varying styles of creative expression. This year’s exhibit featured several artists from Riverton and neighboring cities, including Bryan Leggat, Kamrah Holt, Brian Buroker and Maria Victoria Duque.

Holt had a dream to bring affordable Christ-centered art to the public. The South Jordan artist loves painting images of Jesus because “my whole life has changed because of Him.” She had a strong impression to bring people to Jesus through her art.

“People come up with tears in their eyes and say, ‘With your painting, I realized that Jesus loves me,’ or ‘I realize that he’s praying for me,’ or ‘I realize that he’s bigger than my problems.’ With the emotions and the stories, I started to understand that there was a reason behind why I was doing what I was doing and I had to keep going.”

For Buroker, a professional photographer, his work has evolved from abstracts and still life to colorful and detailed nature photography. The Riverton resident had al-

ways envied landscape photographers and their ability to capture magic, so he took some online classes and taught himself how to portray nature in a beautiful way.

“I like to go to places that most people don’t go so I can show them what wonderful things are out there,” Buroker said. “I do it sometimes for me, because it’s a pretty picture, and I want to capture it and remember it, but a big part of it is to show the people what’s out there in the world and how beautiful the world is.”

Leggat’s triptych painting, “Growth Through Connection, Connection Through Growth,” is a commissioned piece by a company that valued the interactions its employees had with each other and with clients. The painting was inspired by the world’s largest living organism, Pando. The Utah-based quaking aspen clone has an estimated 47,000 stems that are part of a single tree, connected by roots that span more than 100 acres.

For Duque, a resident of Saratoga Springs, her pieces are meant to speak to women, to remind them of their fearlessness, their beauty, their courage and their power.

“‘Illusion’ is a woman of sensuality, she’s gorgeous and beautiful,” Duque said. “This inspiration is for the women.”

Along with paintings and photographs, the exhibit also included carved wooden spoons, small framed prints and a collection of art created by artists from the Riverton Senior Center.

The current exhibit at Old Dome Meeting Hall is the Jordan School District High School Art display, featuring high school students presenting a wide range of work including ceramics, sculpture, photography, animation, paintings, drawings and film. The show runs through Wednesday, May 13. The meeting hall is open Monday through Wednesday, from noon to 5 p.m. l

New Miss Riverton crowned

The Miss Riverton Scholarship Competition was held on March 28, with EmmaLee Mackay (center) selected as Miss Riverton 2026. She will serve the community for the next year alongside her first attendant, Mykenna Rolf (left), and second attendant, Cecilie Thomas (right). (Brook Bowen/Riverton City)

EmmaLee Mackay is crowned Miss Riverton 2026 during the Miss Riverton Scholarship Competition held at the Sandra N. Lloyd Community Center. (Brook Bowen/Riverton City)

Grief

Small business SECTION

Ranging from $0 to more than $300 for a base license, business licensing fees differ across Salt Lake County.

For entrepreneurs looking to start a company in Salt Lake County, location can shape the cost of opening that business. Licensing fees vary drastically as cities determine costs and define regulations. Fees can fluctuate based on the type of business, number of employees, impact on city services and required inspections.

On one end of the scale is Riverton, which in 2018 became the first city in Utah to eliminate all business licensing fees. The move was orchestrated by the mayor at the time, Trent Staggs, who wanted to let companies know the city was open for business.

“He wanted Riverton to be a business-friendly community,” said Riverton Business Licensing Coordinator Angie Keller. “We’re also very user-friendly when it comes to getting a license. They click on our website and it guides them through the process. I don’t get many phone calls asking for help…I feel like Riverton has gone above and beyond, as far as pointing them in the right direction and giving them all the information they need.”

Draper’s base fee for a commercial license is $82, with additional fees for alcohol or firework sales, sexually-oriented businesses and solicitors. Murray charges $100 for a commercial license with regulatory fees on companies like auto towing, tobacco retailers, tattoo parlors and convalescent homes. Midvale has a base fee of $137 for commercial businesses with add-on charges for industries including bars, hotels, pawn shops and restaurants.

For companies in the county’s newly incorporated areas, including Kearns, Magna and Copperton, the Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District administers those business licenses. The district charges a $150 base fee for commercial businesses and home-based locations that have customers coming to the home.

On the higher end of the scale, South Jordan charges $337 for a general business license application fee, with additional charges for hotels ($2,700), restaurants ($633), big box stores ($3,331) and entertainment/recreation facilities ($1,727).

Brian Preece serves as South Jordan’s Director of Planning and Economic Development. He said the city’s licensing fee structure wasn’t put together haphazardly, but was based on a feasibility study that determined the cost impact of specific businesses to the city. More fees are placed on businesses that have a higher volume of calls for police or fire services.

“We have a fire inspection for most businesses and that’s part of the [licensing] fees,” Preece said. “Even though Riverton doesn’t have a business licensing fee…it’s being paid for somewhere. The general fund is paying for it.”

South Jordan Public Information Officer Rachael Van Cleave added, “If we weren’t to charge these fees, taxpayer dollars would be subsidizing these costs for businesses. So the fees help to take that off the general taxpayer.”

For home-based businesses, Utah Code states that cities cannot charge a licensing fee unless the business impacts the neighborhood, such as having customers or an unusually high number

of home deliveries. However, several cities, including Taylorsville and South Salt Lake, charge administrative processing fees of $100 and $59, respectively, for home-based businesses.

Riverton requires every home-based business to have a license, but there is no fee. South Jordan does not require home-based businesses to have licenses unless they operate a daycare/preschool or if they have regular clients coming to the home.

“We made the decision to not charge for or even require a home license business,” Preece said. “If somebody wants one, then we’ll get you a license, but you have to go through the regular process, and that’s your choice.”

While getting a business license is certainly an important step in starting a business, it’s not the only step. Business owners need to make sure that the company is registered with the state and, if sales are involved, with the Utah State Tax Commission. Owners must ensure all licenses and inspections are complete before a business license can be issued. Most cities have license approval completed in two weeks or less.

The wide-ranging business licensing fees and processes across the county impact business owners and municipalities differently. For some entrepreneurs, that difference could be the deciding factor on where they ultimately locate their business.

Starting smart: What every small business owner needs to know first

By Holly Curby | hello@hollycurby.com

For many entrepreneurs, the journey begins with a spark—an idea, a passion or a defining life moment. For me, it started with loss.

In 2019, after my mother passed away, I made her a promise: I’ll write the book. That promise became more than a personal goal, it grew into a business rooted in becoming an eighttime award-winning published author — speaking, podcasting, coaching and consulting. Like many small business owners, my path wasn’t linear. It was built step by step, with research, guidance and a willingness to learn.

My story reflects a larger trend. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than five million new businesses were launched in 2025. Yet only about 65% of small businesses become profitable. The message is clear: starting a business is more accessible than ever, but building a successful one takes preparation and persistence.

Start with research—not just passion

Passion is important, but it’s not enough on its own. “Do your research,” advises a representative from Investor.gov.

Are you a business leader?

At no cost, the ElevateHERTM Challenge is easy to accept and will benefit your company. Join businesses across Utah in our mission to elevate the stature of women’s leadership. Take the ElevateHERTM Challenge and stand with other businesses as we pledge to elevate women in senior leadership positions, in boardrooms, on management teams and on politcal ballots.

LEARN MORE: www.wliut.com/elevateher-challenge

“You may have a bright idea, but before you invest money, make sure it’s viable.”

That means asking hard questions: Is this a true passion or just an interest? Do you have the time and financial stability to pursue it? Is the timing right?

Timing, in particular, can shape the entire experience. In my case, reduced work hours during the pandemic created an unexpected opportunity to build something new.

Understanding your market is just as critical. Who are your competitors? What makes your idea different? Tools like a SWOT analysis—evaluating strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats— can provide a realistic snapshot before you commit.

Build the right foundation

Once your idea is validated, it’s time to make it official. That includes choosing a business name, registering it and selecting a structure that fits your goals.

“Make sure your name is available, not just legally, but online,” says David York, managing partner of York Howell. “That includes checking domain names and social media handles.”

Next comes the operational setup: securing an Employer Identification Number (EIN), registering with your state, and opening a dedicated business bank account. Keeping personal and business finances separate isn’t just good practice—it’s essential.

Tony Wolff of Wolff & Company puts it simply: “Set up your financial system early. It will save you and your tax advisor a lot of stress later.”

Know your money habits

Your personal relationship with money doesn’t disappear when you start a business—it follows you.

“How you handle money personally will carry over into your business,” says financial coach Sara Fernandes. “Whether you rely on cash, debit or credit, understanding your habits can help you avoid costly mistakes.”

She also emphasizes consistency over complexity: “Set aside time weekly to track expenses and send invoices. Don’t let it pile up.”

Your brand is your first impression

In today’s digital marketplace, your online presence often determines whether a customer engages with your business.

“Don’t wait for your website to be perfect before you launch it,” says Promise Tangeman, owner of GoLive. “Get it

live and improve it along the way.”

Clarity matters. Visitors should quickly understand what you offer and who you serve. And when it comes to growth, Tangeman advises focus over reach: “Most people chase reach—the real leaders chase depth.”

That same strategy applies to social media. Choose platforms you can maintain consistently and build trust over time.

Protect yourself and communicate clearly

Legal and operational safeguards are essential, even if they’re not the most exciting part of entrepreneurship. Permits, licenses, insurance and contracts all protect your business.

“Communicate, communicate, communicate,” York emphasizes. Clear contracts outlining services, pricing and expectations can prevent issues before they arise.

Getting your first customers

Marketing often starts small. Networking, community involvement and word-of-mouth remain powerful tools.

“Marketing is what you say; branding is what they feel,” says Susan Carlson, owner of Redrig gaming truck. “Make that first feeling count.”

Simple strategies—like creating a Google business profile, joining a local Chamber of Commerce, or building an email list—can help establish visibility and trust.

Progress over perfection

If there’s one common thread in entrepreneurship, it’s this: success doesn’t come from having everything figured out. It comes from starting, learning and continuing forward.

The journey may feel overwhelming at times, but every business begins with a single step. And sometimes, it begins with a promise, and the courage to follow through.

Learn more from some of these small business owners and others on Holly’s Highlights podcast, available wherever you stream podcasts and at www.HollyCurby.com.

Local resources support entrepreneurs

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

Six ways to get help starting or growing your business.

Starting a new business can be a massive undertaking. Creating a business plan, obtaining loans and developing marketing strategies can feel overwhelming. But in Utah, several organizations want you to succeed and offer resources, mentoring and connections to help build a sustainable business. Here are six places to start.

Utah Small Business Development Center. Located at Salt Lake Community College Miller Campus in Sandy and in Kaysville at Davis Technical College, the SBDC offers free business consulting. Whether your business is just an idea or a built-out concept, working with SBDC professionals can increase your chance of success.

SBDC also provides information about financing, customer relations, employee management and business accounting through the Entrepreneur Academy, workshops and training classes. It also hosts networking events to build support so your business can thrive. To learn more, visit utahsbdc.org.

Suazo Business Center. Nearly 10% of Utah businesses are owned by Latino or Hispanic entrepreneurs. Suazo Business Center is often a first step for members of underserved communities to help them build and grow a thriving company. Bilingual consultants offer advising appointments to create an understanding of small business while providing guidance and mentorship.

With locations in Salt Lake and Ogden, Suazo Business Center has classes in Spanish and English to cover topics like QuickBooks, business development, legal structure, accounting and financing. It also has a series of workshops to tackle issues from HR to government contracts. For more information, visit suazocenter.org.

SCORE Utah. With free business mentoring and low-cost educational workshops, SCORE Utah can help expand your network and grow your business. Its online courses allow entrepreneurs to explore all areas of business ownership, including e-commerce, customer service, crisis management and online marketing.

SCORE Academy premium courses offer inexpensive training in grant writing, AI for business or sales, and marketing strategy. Additionally, SCORE will provide a free mentor who will partner with you on your business journey. Mentors give advice and educate business owners to help them feel supported. To learn more, visit score.org/utah.

Utah Microloan Fund. For business owners who might have a low credit score or no access to collateral, the Utah Microloan Fund is a “lender of last resort” that can help entrepreneurs who can’t get traditional business loans. It can offer lending to higher-risk clients because its purpose is about creating impact, not profit.

For 35 years, the organization has funded microloans to help people build their dreams. By providing training and financing to businesses that don’t qualify for traditional funding, the Utah Microloan Fund is a resource for those who have been declined for a bank loan. The microloans are set at a fixed rate, with up to six years for repayment.

Plus, its popular Banking on Women program helps women create a business plan and apply for funding to make it a success. Visit utahmicroloanfund.org/orientation for more information.

Local Chambers of Commerce For advocacy and networking, the local Chamber of Commerce is a great place to connect with like-minded business owners, find opportunities for promotion and get your company involved with volunteer activities.

The Salt Lake Chamber is the biggest in Utah, while the South Valley Chamber represents many communities in Salt Lake County, including Sandy, Draper and Riverton. ChamberWest serves businesses in Taylorsville, West Valley, Kearns and West Jordan, and several smaller chambers serve individual cities, like Murray or South Salt Lake. The Davis Chamber is the primary organization for businesses in Davis County.

There are also specialized chambers, including the Utah Black Chamber, the Utah Hispanic Chamber, the Utah Asian Chamber and the Utah LGBTQ+ Chamber. For a complete list of Chambers of Commerce, visit utahassociationofchambers.com.

Spice Kitchen Incubator. If you have an idea for a food truck or restaurant, but can’t invest in a truck or brick-and-mortar location, the Spice Kitchen Incubator is an answer to your prayers. Spice Kitchen provides hands-on learning for refugees and other disadvantaged community members interested in creating a food business.

Part of the incubation program includes access to affordable kitchen space, plus capital, operations development and technical assistance. Graduates of the program include Bhutan House, IndieGo Coffee, Wings on Wheels and Waterwheel Kitchen. To learn more, visit spicekitchenincubator.org.

Better Shelves. Custom Solutions.

Say goodbye to clutter and frustration–wherever it lives. From kitchens and pantries to bathrooms and laundry rooms, ShelfGenie® custom pull-out shelves bring smart, accessible storage to every space in your home.

Bluffdale resident named Miss Salt Lake County 2026

Ella Rose Leonelli helps teens for future

By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com

The new Miss Salt Lake County is just as comfortable in a field as she is on the stage. Ella Rose Leonelli grew up on a farm in Tooele, where water conservation was top of mind. After attending a SheTech event in high school, she found her passion for environmental engineering, earning her degree from Utah State University.

As Miss Salt Lake County, Leonelli will combine those two worlds with her mission shaped in care, curiosity and a determination to protect the world.

“It was really nice to be able to take what I was passionate about as a child and turn it into a career,” Leonelli said. “Now I’m a full-time employee at an amazing engineering firm in Lehi, AE2S. How lucky am I to have been able to figure out, at such a young age, what I wanted to do?”

Leonelli didn’t start competing for pageant titles until her last year of college. She was looking for a way

to give back to the community when someone suggested pageants, which would allow her to create her own service platform. She had already worked with AmeriCorps and the pageant circuit allowed her to share her passion.

“There are a lot of amazing women who are doing phenomenal work in their communities and towns. These women are the reason that I continued to participate in pageants,” she said. “Getting to know these other women who were passionate about similar things like community service, giving back and being involved, it gave me a sense of community.”

The 23-year-old Bluffdale resident’s platform, Ignite the Future: Preparing the Next Generation for Success, is focused on helping students build skills for growth and achievement. By assisting them with resume building, interview preparation and professional development, Leonelli hopes to inspire youth to build confidence.

“I want to go into the community and engage with these kids at their level, to help them start thinking about it, not pressuring them into having a decision made, but to start

thinking about what those next steps are,” she said. “I want to be somebody they can look up to as a mentor. Part of my community service initiative is that I offer free interview practice, whether that be for scholarships, Sterling scholars or high schoolers interviewing for their first job.”

Not only is Leonelli a scientist, teen mentor and beauty queen, but she is also a talented singer. She performed “Sempre Libera” from the opera “La Traviata” during the Miss Salt Lake County pageant. She also served as Miss Oquirrh Mountain 2025 and will compete at the Miss Utah pageant in June.

She invites any city in the county to reach out to her for upcoming events, school visits, community programs or other gatherings. She can be reached at MissSaltLakeCounty@ gmail.com. To learn about her platform, visit her Instagram page @ignite.the.future.

“I’m passionate about serving my community, I’m passionate about being involved in my community,” Leonelli said. “I want it to be seen through all of Salt Lake County. I want to interact with kids. I want to be somebody they can look up to as a mentor.” 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 High hosts cultural arts event

The Jordan School District has dual immersion programs in Mandarin Chinese, French, Portuguese and Spanish highlighted by the fifth annual festival.

By Laura S. Crapo l.crapo@mycityjournals.com

The Jordan School District was excited to host the fifth annual Cultural Arts Festival at Riverton High School in March. The District has dual language immersion programs in Mandarin Chinese, French, Portuguese and Spanish. These dual immersion programs follow a 50/50 model. The students involved in this event spend half the day in the Chinese language and English for the other half and this cultural event helped them learn more about the Chinese culture. Teachers, students, planners and the administration appreciated how the festival highlighted the Chinese culture

“The attendance was good! We had kids of all grades come to partake in the event; they were all accompanied by their parents. So people of all ages were here,” said JSD VP of External Communications Chase Glenn. “They were all very excited to see what we had planned for them, and excited to hear about the Chinese bridge program

and what it can offer.”

The Chinese high school Bridge Leadership Team was recognized for their service. These students were essential in this cultural arts festival’s success. They volunteered many hours outside of class to plan the festival, prepare competition materials, set up cultural activities, run the talent show and help with cleanup. These organizers came from the Riverton and Mountain Ridge Chinese Club.

“Many worked five to six hours on the

day of the event while balancing school, sports and other commitments.

Their participation was completely voluntary, yet every leadership team member showed up and gave their best. As their adviser, I am incredibly proud of their dedication and leadership,” said Dual Language Immersion and Bridge Program Instructor Dr. Wei Wei. “Thank you again for supporting our students and celebrating Chinese language and culture with us!”

Care that Feels Like

This year’s competition focused on lan-

guage and culture, with grade-appropriate questions covering pinyin, grammar and cultural knowledge. Hanyu Pinyin, or simply pinyin, is officially the Chinese Phonetic Alphabet and is the most common Romanization system for Standard Chinese. The festival’s performances included singing, dancing, instrumental music, skits and even stand-up. There were also language competitions. Grades 1 to 3 competed in Charades, and grades 4 to 9 competed in a Jeopardy game. The preliminary rounds had easier questions while the final rounds were more challenging.

The students studied and practiced carefully to test and perform well in the event they had chosen. These events deepened their understanding and appreciation of the Chinese culture. Beyond that, DLI students often perform as well as or better than peers in traditional programs on standardized tests, developing stronger reading and math skills in both languages. It has also been found the dual-language environment boosts cognitive skills which include better memory and better problem-solving skills. One obvious benefit is the creation of future career opportunities and respect for other cultures.

“What stood out to me most was how much impact the Chinese DLI program can have on people’s lives,” Glenn said. “It opens doors to new perspectives, cultures and opportunities for young students.” l

SheTech inspires girls to explore STEM careers

Students met professionals working in STEM fields who shared how technology is used to tackle realworld challenges.

By Julie Slama j.slama@mycityjournals.com

More than 3,000 Utah students gathered to explore STEM careers at SheTech, where hands-on workshops, industry booths and inspirational leaders encouraged middle and high school girls to see themselves in fields where women are still underrepresented.

Michele Hollist, a senior chemical engineering analyst with Oxeon Energy, said her company participates because it wants student to see how science and engineering make an impact in both space and on Earth.

The company is working on technology that can create oxygen from carbon dioxide in the Martian atmosphere and converts biogas from food waste into renewable fuels on Earth.

“We’re trying to solve energy issues on Earth I know this generation cares about and our technology actually has operated on Mars, which I don’t think a lot of people know,” she said.

“I’m hoping to get girls excited about the fact they can use their education to solve problems. A lot of the people we interview coming out of college are passionate about trying to make the world a better place and our new energy sources will last for generations.”

Nearby was a booth with programs Women who Succeed, Ken Garff Keys to Success and Ken Garff eSports, that support high school and college students, con-

necting females with mentors, resources and scholarships.

“I want to help girls, especially in tech fields, have a place,” said Addie Huff, Women who Succeed program manager. “We want to help the next generation of leaders.”

Girls participated in hands-on challenges and networked with industries and colleges in the TechZone. More than 1,000 mentors from 250 companies and major universities took part in the free event, which was hosted by the Women Tech Council with the help of the SheTech student board.

Students spent the day discovering possibilities.

West Hills Junior High ninth-grader Leimomi Jensen was exploring career choices.

“I’m open to options, learning about

these fields,” she said, adding she’d also like to be a pro dirt bike rider.

Her classmate, Jesse Jones, said she was looking at opportunities to help her in a field, marine biology, she’d like to pursue.

“I’m taking the opportunity to learn new things,” Jones said.

Students took part in workshops ranging from programming and aerospace to biomedicine and cybersecurity.

Cottonwood High sophomore Avery Harmston appreciated the event for female students.

“SheTech is great because it can be intimidating in the male-dominated STEM fields so here we can learn about the industry from women who are in the tech field; it’s a good experience,” she said.

Her classmate Callye Linke liked the interactive learning.

“It’s fun to learn about all this; I had an engineering-focused workshop,” she said. “I’ve learned at SheTech how AI can be used for good reasons.”

Juan Diego Catholic High junior Lei Harline used the experience to learn more about the health care industry.

“I want to be an anesthesiologist so I’m looking more at the medical field booths and workshops, but it’s fun to explore all the new technology,” she said.

Educators say the event leaves a lasting impact on students.

Corner Canyon High’s work-based learning coordinator Taylor Jesienouski brought 37 girls to the explorer day.

“It’s a great event, one of the best of the year for women empowerment,” she said. “We always feel women are strong and can do anything after this event; my girls absolutely love it.”

Two-time Olympic skiing freestyle medalist Shannon Bahrke, who just returned from watching the Olympics in Italy where she said women won 60% of the medals, was one of the event’s speakers. She encouraged students to try new things and pursue what inspires them.

“I challenge you today to make friends with all of these incredible girls around you, because they are your people,” Bahrke said. “Find something that you really love here, something that inspires you, something that intrigues you…and you will have your Olympic moment. It may not be on the world’s biggest stage, but it will be on your biggest stage. Work hard and be your best self, because your extraordinary starts here.” l

Silverwolves tear through first half of season, top playoff seed possible

Residents

jump with Easter Bunny

Photos by Travis Barton

Kids laughed and giggled as they took photos with the Easter Bunny at the Riverton Bunny Hop where participants rounded Riverton City Park visiting stations with games, prizes and a few rabbits

LeafFilter came out on a Wednesday, gave me a quote and installed it the next day. Very reasonable price. The installers were professional and cleaned up after themselves. Very pleased with LeafFilter. -Je Farmer.

Have been thinking about having gutter protection installed for a number of years since every year it becomes more of a pain to climb up on the roof and get the clean-out done. Called LeafFilter on a Thursday, the salesman came on Friday and the installation was done the next day. Easy-peasy.

-Anthony.

100,000+ Reviews.

Plan ahead for your child’s education with the my529 savings program

Money goes into a my529 account posttax and earnings on that investment are tax free both federal and state if it’s used for qualified educational expenses.

By Becky Ginos b.ginos@mycityjournals.com

Most parents aren’t thinking about college when they welcome their newborn but it’s never too early to start saving for the future. There’s a way to do that through the my529 program, Utah’s official nonprofit 529 educational savings plan, a tax advantaged

way to save for the cost of higher education.

“my529 has been around for 30 years,” said my529 Marketing Specialist Jenny Sass. “We’re celebrating our 30th anniversary this year. We’re quasi-governmental, so we actually reside under the Utah System of Higher Education.”

Money goes in post-tax and earnings on that investment are tax free both federal and state if it’s used for what is termed qualified educational expenses, she said. “That could be anything like tuition, fees, books, room and board, supplies, equipment, computers, etc. In recent years there’s been additional things added such as registered apprenticeships and

student loan repayment up to $10,000.”

Most recently, there’s been some addition of different credentialing and certificate courses, Sass said. “For Utah residents there is also the opportunity to take advantage of a state tax credit. So for owners that open accounts for beneficiaries who are under 18 years of age they have the ability to receive a tax credit which makes it a little more appealing for our Utah residents to get involved with the program.”

“The funds can be used in state,” she said. “They can also be used out of state. They can be used for community college, for a traditional four-year school and they could also be used for a tech college.”

“There’s really a lot of flexibility,” Sass said. “With the passing of SECURE 2.0 there’s also now the ability to roll over up to $35,000 of leftover funds into the beneficiary’s Roth IRA. The guidance on that has been if the account is open for at least 15 years, you have the ability to do that because one of the questions we’ll often get is, ‘what if my child doesn’t go to school?’ So this is just providing more flexibility that way.”

The advantage of it being post-tax is when someone takes the money out there is no tax on the earnings portion, she said. “Probably by far the biggest selling point of a my529 plan is that tax- free growth.”

Utah has been fortunate to have a

great plan, Sass said. “We’re the third largest direct sold in the country and we have consecutively received the Morning Star gold rating. They’re an independent financial company that rates all of the 529 plans across the United States. We’re the only plan to have that distinction for 15 years running as the top spot (gold) in recent years here.” my529 recently announced a new program called incentiFive. “It’s specifically for new Utah parents,” Sass said. “So it’s for newborns and it’s a five-year saving incentive program. It’s really designed to help Utah families start an education savings habit early.”

The way it works is if a family has a baby born between Sept. 1, 2025 and Aug. 31, 2026 they’re eligible to participate. “For the next five consecutive years if you put in $100 each of those years in years one through four you’re eligible for a $100 incentive contribution from my529 and in year five you would receive $529,” Sass said. “So you have the ability over the course of five years to get $929 of incentive contributions from my529. All together that’s at least $1,429 in contributions to a child’s education savings account by the time they reach kindergarten.”

It’s free to open a my529 account and there is no minimum deposit or account balance. For more information about my529 go to my529.org/. To enroll in the incentiFive program visit my529.org/incentifive/. l

More Utah insurers cover TMS treatment for teens

TMS therapy has been shown to help teens suffering from depression.

By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com

a growing number of teens struggle with depression, some insurance companies are now providing coverage for transcranial magnetic stimulation, a technique proving to be more effective than antidepressant medications.

While the FDA initially approved TMS treatment for teens 15 and older in 2024, increased insurance coverage will allow doctors to help their younger patients in a meaningful way.

“It has been remarkable to see people of all ages find relief from depression and begin to enjoy life after treatment with TMS,” said Dr. Tom Rayner, a psychiatrist with NeuroHealth. “It has also been rewarding to watch them get better without the many debilitating side effects that medications can bring.”

NeuroHealth in South Jordan (10437 S. Temple Drive, Ste. 200) uses the NeuroStar TMS nondrug therapy to treat adult patients. As insurers expand TMS coverage to include teens dealing with depression, Rayner hopes to see young patients find lasting results.

TMS uses a magnetic pulse to activate neurons, increasing activity in the brain area to improve symptoms of depression. It is a noninvasive procedure, similar to an MRI. Many patients see results in less than one month of treatment.

Rayner said the treatment is safe with almost no side effects. Compared to the weight gain, sedation, fatigue, nausea and diarrhea that commonly occur with antidepressant use,

TMS patients might experience a mild to moderate headache during the first few sessions as the brain gets accustomed to the stimulation.

“Rates of depression and anxiety have increased among all ages, especially among teenagers and youth,” Rayner said. “TMS is specifically indicated for teens and other individuals suffering from major depressive disorder, a condition that contributes to sad or irritable moods, feelings of guilt and worthlessness, poor energy, poor motivation, poor sleep and appetite, loss of hope and even suicidal ideations.”

Insurers that now allow adolescent TMS treatment in Utah are United Healthcare, Aetna, Cigna, BCBS Federal Employee Plan, Regence BCBS and Select Health. Other insurance companies are currently holding reviews, evaluations and evidence assessments to determine if their TMS coverage will be expanded to teens.

The health policy team at NeuroStar, a premier manufacturer and developer of TMS technology, continues to educate insurers across the country that have not yet added adolescent TMS coverage. NeuroStar officials said while they can’t provide a specific timeline for expansion, discussions are ongoing and progress is being made.

“Adolescent coverage has already been added to several policies as a direct result of the health policy team’s advocacy efforts,” said NeuroStar Practice Development Manager Jessica Brown. “Some insurers initially expressed hesitancy or indicated they would not move forward with coverage; however, with continued engagement and presentation of clinical evidence, decisions have evolved over time.”

Approval can’t come quickly enough for families of teens dealing with depression but Rayner is pleased insurance companies are seeing the benefits of TMS and provid-

Insurance coverage expands to include TMS treatment for teens. TMS is a noninvasive therapy that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the area of the brain that controls mood. (Photo courtesy of NeuroHealth)

ing assistance to cover the treatment. He advises parents to be proactive in getting their teen into treatment, whether that’s TMS or counseling.

“Don’t wait,” he said. “Get help immediately. TMS, medications or therapy all work more effectively earlier in the course of illness. The longer the treatment is delayed, the more difficult it is to get good treatment responses.”

For more information, visit NeuroHealthUtah.com. l

C

Like many communities across the country, Salt Lake County has felt the impact of the opioid crisis. In recent years, hundreds of people have died from opioid-related overdoses with fentanyl playing a significant role. It has affected families, strained our healthcare and public safety systems, and left too many people searching for a path forward. Opioids have devastated countless lives.

Several years ago, states and local governments across the nation took legal action against pharmaceutical manufacturers, distributors and retailers for the role they played in fueling the opioid epidemic. Those cases resulted in national settlements totaling more than $50 billion.

Starting in 2021, Salt Lake County expects to receive over $91 million from multiple settlements to help combat the opioid crisis locally. The funds will be distributed over a 17-year period.

Unlike traditional tax dollars, these funds are specifically designated for addressing the opioid crisis and must be used for evidence-based strategies and programs that support prevention, treatment and recovery.

There are formal agreements in place restricting how these funds can be spent, but counties are responsible for determining how to allocate them. In Salt Lake County,

the council works closely with the mayor’s office and a specialized opioid task force to evaluate and prioritize programs. Our goal is to invest in solutions that reduce reliance on the criminal justice system and create better long-term outcomes for those struggling with substance use disorders.

Last week, my colleagues and I approved a set of targeted programs designed to address this crisis in meaningful and measurable ways. These investments focus on what we know works and were shaped by input from public health experts, first responders and community organizations.

First, we are investing in prevention and education. This includes expanding school-based programs that help young people avoid substance use in the first place.

Second, we are strengthening treatment and recovery services. We approved funding to expand access to evidence-based care, including Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), as well as recovery support such as peer mentoring, housing assistance and connection to employment services to help prevent relapse.

Third, we are supporting life-saving efforts. This includes increasing access to naloxone, a medication that can reverse

overdoses, and funding outreach programs that connect individuals to services before a crisis turns fatal.

These efforts are part of a long-term strategy to address both the root causes and ongoing impacts of opioid misuse in our community. To improve outcomes, we are also strengthening coordination across systems. This includes better data sharing and tracking how people move through law enforcement, jails, courts and other community programs. This will help us identify opportunities to intervene earlier, connect people to treatment and reduce repeat offenses.

To ensure transparency and accountability, a public-facing dashboard will begin to roll out starting June 2026.

The opioid crisis did not happen overnight, and it will not be solved overnight. But this funding from the lawsuit settlement provides an important opportunity to respond more effectively and more compassionately. We are committed to using these resources responsibly to save lives, support recovery and strengthen Salt Lake County for years to come. This is about turning accountability into action and making sure these funds lead to real and measurable change.

Whenastronaut Neil Armstrong took those first steps on the moon, I had just celebrated my first birthday. I don’t remember either event, but the entire world held its breath as it watched Apollo 11 land, while I shoved my hands into a birthday cake.

That moon mission used less technology than your bathroom scale. It was basically human calculations, a slide rule and a Rand McNally paper map that guided those astronauts on the first lunar road trip.

We were told that space was the final frontier; space was the future. We learned that, like age and teenagers, space isn’t forgiving.

As a Murray High School senior, my home ec advisor wheeled a TV into the classroom to watch the Space Shuttle Challenger carry the first teacher, Christa McAuliffe, into space. We were speechless when the shuttle blew up at 46,000 feet. In February 2003, I watched the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster unfold as the spacecraft disintegrated on re-entry.

To say I was apprehensive watching the Artemis II mission launch to the moon would be an astronomical understatement.

On April 1, NASA perched the Orion space capsule atop a 300-foot rocket, one of the most powerful ever built. It launched a team of four astronauts 250,000 miles away from Earth, the farthest humans have ever traveled, discounting alien abductions, of course.

Unlike the catapulted station wagon that

Peri Kinder Life and Laughter

Copy, Moon Joy

somehow got us to the moon during Apollo missions, Orion uses autonomous navigation and extreme precision, carrying astronauts beyond low-Earth orbit for the first time in more than 50 years, traveling at speeds up to 25,000 mph.

It was the 10th manned moon exploration, or for conspiracy theorists, the 10th “faked” moon mission. The entire adventure was livestreamed so we could travel together.

Space exploration is equal parts wonder, technology and angst. During the 10-day moon trip, I endured galactic levels of anxiety. Launch sent my blood pressure soaring. My jaw clenched while they circled the moon on April 6, and my internal organs somersaulted during splashdown on April 10.

I was hyperaware that dreams explode and rockets fall apart.

Apollo missions were built on bravery, and America was racing to beat Russians to the moon. Now, Artemis is an international collaboration, one that should remind us we only sur-

vive this wild ride by working together.

In Greek mythology, Artemis is Apollo’s twin sister and goddess of the moon. It is an apt comparison: while the first moon missions had bro energy, the Artemis program continues the story in a wiser, more thoughtful way.

Women play key roles in the Artemis program. Besides the first female to fly on a moon mission, there are female science officers, mission leads and launch directors. In fact, for the first time in NASA’s history, the current astronaut class has more women than men.

If I could do math while enduring crushing g-forces and the stomach-dropping sensation of freefall, I would definitely have been in the space program. Instead, I appreciate the life of an astronaut from the comfort of my recliner.

Apollo gave us “One giant leap,” Challenger dropped us to our knees and Artemis refocused our gaze. These missions remind us to look to the stars, but also look to our beautiful, blue planet. We only have each other. We should start acting like it.

As I approach my next birthday, one I hope I remember, I raise a glass to the dreamers, the heroes, to the brilliant engineers in mission control and the fearless astronauts who explore new paths. It reminds us that even when the story goes wrong, we need to keep looking up.

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