South Salt Lake City Journal | March 2026

South Salt Lake

City seeks new representatives for two districts following council departures

New representatives needed for Districts 1 and 5.

After six years on the South Salt Lake City Council, Councilmember LeAnne Huff has stepped down, announcing her resignation effective immediately at the Jan. 28 council meeting.

“I have decided it’s time for me to reorder my priorities and focus on other areas of my life,” said Huff who represented District 1. “It has been a profound honor to represent the residents of District 1 over the past six years. I want to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to serve this community and for the privilege of working alongside each and every one of you and with the residents and dedicated staff who make this place a vibrant place to live.”

Huff noted that she is stepping away with a sense of pride regarding where the city is headed.

“I remain incredibly proud of the progress we have accomplished during my time here together,” she said. “I’m committed in assisting in any way possible that’s helpful to ensure a smooth transition for my successor and the District 1 community.”

“For six years, LeAnne Huff represented District 1 and served the city through compassion and determination to improve quality of life for our residents,” Mayor Cherie Wood said in a statement to the South Salt Lake Journal later. “She has been a reliable councilmember, offering a valuable perspective through her profession as a mental health specialist. We are a stronger city thanks in part to her contributions, and

By Linda Petersen | l.petersen@mycityjournals.com

she will be missed at the council dais. I wish her happiness and success in her future endeavors.”

The evening also brought a formal update regarding District 5. Council Chair Sharla Bynum announced that the seat formerly held by Paul Sanchez—who was censured by the council last year for social media posts he allegedly made—has been declared vacant. Under Utah law, if an elected representative is absent from their district for more than 60 days during their term, the office is vacated.

“Councilmember Sanchez has failed to fulfill his responsibilities as a member of the South Salt Lake City Council since at least August 2025. The city of South Salt Lake has an obligation to abide by state law,” Bynum said, reading from an official statement.

Bynum also acknowledged the personal circumstances surrounding the vacancy, adding, “We do wish former Councilmember Sanchez the best of luck. And he’s had some health problems. We’re aware of that and we wish him all of the best.”

By law, the city has 30 days from the notification of vacancy to fill the positions. City spokesperson Joseph Danes confirmed that candidates for both the District 1 and District 5 seats would be interviewed at an upcoming meeting.

Applicants for the offices were scheduled to be interviewed by the city council in an open work meeting on Feb. 25 (after press deadline). The council was then scheduled to vote to select the new representatives during its regular meeting immediately following the interviews. l

Understanding Endometriosis: Helping Women Avoid Struggling in Silence

For many women, pelvic pain is dismissed as “normal” or “just part of being a woman.”

But sometimes that pain is a symptom of a chronic condition called endometriosis that affects millions. It’s a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing pain, infertility, and a range of other debilitating symptoms.

Endometriosis isn’t just about bad period cramps. It can lead to significant pain during menstruation, intercourse, bowel movements, and urination. It can also cause chronic pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, fatigue, and is a leading cause of infertility

“The emotional and psychological toll of endometriosis can be immense, especially for women who dismiss their pain and go undiagnosed. This condition han have a profound impact on their relationships, careers, and overall quality of life,” said Lisa Hill, certified nurse midwife at Holy Cross Hospital – West Valley

Endometriosis is surprisingly common. It affects an estimated 1 in 10 women of reproductive age globally. In our local community, this means thousands of women are likely living with endometriosis, many of whom may not even realize they have it. The delay in diagnosis is a critical concern,

with women often waiting an average of 7 to 10 years from the onset of symptoms to receive an accurate diagnosis. This delay can lead to the progression of the disease and increased severity of symptoms. Raising awareness is crucial to shorten this diagnostic journey for future generations.

“While there is currently no cure for endometriosis, effective treatments are available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment approaches are highly individualized, depending on the severity of symptoms, the extent of the disease, and whether the woman desires to become pregnant,” said Dr. Christopher Hutchison, an OB/ GYN at Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley Common treatment options include:

• Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers (like NSAIDs) can help with mild pain, while stronger prescription medications may be necessary for severe pain.

• Hormonal Therapies: These treatments aim to slow the growth of endometrial tissue and prevent new implants by regulating or blocking the hormones that fuel their growth.

• Conservative Surgery: Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure where a surgeon can precisely locate and remove endo-

Nurture what’s next.

metrial implants while preserving reproductive organs. This can significantly reduce pain and improve fertility outcomes for some women.

• Hysterectomy and Oophorectomy: In severe cases where other treatments have failed and childbearing is complete, removal of the uterus (hysterectomy) and/or ovaries (oophorectomy) may be considered, though this is typically a last resort and does not guarantee complete relief from symptoms.

• Complementary Therapies: Many women find relief through complementary approaches such as acupuncture, physical therapy, dietary changes, and stress management techniques. If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent pelvic pain, unusually heavy periods, or difficulty conceiving, please don’t dismiss these symptoms. Talk to your doctor. Early diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment plan are key to managing endometriosis and living a healthier, more comfortable life. CommonSpirit Health is committed to supporting women’s health and offers resources for diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis.

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

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Granite Education Foundation reports successful Scouting for Food Day

Local Scouts helped collect 23,000 pounds of food.

By Lizzie Walje l.walje@mycityjournals.com

On Feb. 7, Boy and Girl Scouts from across the region launched the multiday Scouting for Food donation and collection event. Scouting for Food has been a tradition now for decades, with this year’s installment marking its 40th anniversary. This particular event has operations in Utah, Idaho and Wyoming.

Scouting for Food is a collaboration between multiple agencies and Scout troops across the region. In Utah, the event is facilitated and aided by multiple organizations and agencies including the Utah Food Bank, the Utah National Guard and the Granite Education Foundation, which is Granite School District’s philanthropic organization. The Foundation has always dedicated time and effort to connecting the District’s families and students with meals, making its involvement in Scouting for Food a welcome inclusion.

Scouting for Food Day is a busy event and much prep work is required leading up to its February kickoff. Scouts used social media to promote the drive and share which nonperishable foods were most needed. This year’s campaign was named “Serving Others…It’s the American Way.” The choice to name the campaign stemmed from the nationwide organization America250 celebrating its 250 years of American character, citizenship and community.

“Scouting for Food is more than a service project—it’s a living expression of what makes America strong: neighbors helping neighbors,” said Lorna Koci, Scouting for Food chair. “When youth

serve others, they learn compassion, leadership, responsibility—values that guided our nation for generations.”

This year, organizers set a goal to gather 120,000 pounds of food with help from 6,000 Scouts and 2,500 adult volunteers. The accumulated food was then distributed to local communities in Utah, southern Idaho and western Wyoming. The specific goal of 120,000 pounds was set after Scouts collected that amount during last year’s event.

On collection day, Scouts posted at Smith’s grocery stores across the state, taking nonperishable food donations from the public. As shoppers entered the store, Scouts informed them of the event and invited them to participate. Those who wished to participate were given a list of food items they could pick up during their shopping trip and leave with the Scouts upon completion.

From there, Scouts teamed up with members of the Utah National Guard, working side-by-side to prepare all of the donated food for delivery. The food was then delivered by volunteers and Guard members, as they traveled across Utah, Wyoming and Idaho to distribute provisions.

“We are proud to continue this tradition of service, especially in a year when our nation is reflecting on 250 years,” said Allen Endicott, Scout executive of Crossroads of the West Council, Scouting America. “Scouting for Food is a powerful example of young people living the Scout Oath by helping others and making a real difference.”

Programs like Scouting for Food are important community mainstays, especially considering the current hunger rates that the state of Utah is facing. Currently, in Utah, one in 10 children face food insecu-

rity. Feeding America, the largest hunger relief organization in the United States, defines food insecurity as the following:

“Food insecurity is when people don’t have enough to eat and don’t know where their next meal will come from. It’s a big problem in the United States where 48 million people including 14 million children, experience food insecurity annually.”

Food insecurity is a threat to people of all ages; however, children are particularly vulnerable considering they’re undergoing developmental changes. Food insecurity can lead to negative outcomes including poor physical health, poor mental health, struggles in work and school performance, and overall poor well-being. According to Feeding America, the biggest causes and risk factors for food insecurity are income-related challenges, high cost of living, community issues, health-related problems and systemic barriers to opportunity.

Events like Scouting for Food are beneficial. Not only do they provide those facing food insecurity with much-needed food assistance, but they also give members of the Scouts and the community an opportunity to engage with philanthropy and service. The result is an event that comes at a much needed time, as food banks often report a significant decrease in donations following the end of the holiday season. Scouting for Food provides a much needed boost in post-holiday donations.

As the food drive concluded, Granite Education Foundation reported that Granite School District Scouts were able to raise 23,000 pounds of food.

“This effort shows what happens when civic groups, businesses and families unite for a common cause,” said Ken Jeppensen, council president for the Crossroads of the West Council, Scouting America. “Scouting for Food is service in action—it’s The American Way.” l

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South Salt Lake partners to bring Mill Creek back to life

Goal is to transform corridor into a walkable area that connects neighborhoods and improves environmental health.

By Linda Petersen l.petersen@mycityjournals.com

Representatives from the Seven Canyons Trust and the Urban Land Institute Utah met with South Salt Lake officials on Jan. 28 to present a plan to improve the Mill Creek corridor, specifically focusing on the gap between 200 East and 200 West.

“Our goal is to bring back 21 miles of buried creeks and 87 miles of impaired waterways whenever possible,” said Seven Canyons Trust Executive Director Ronnie Pessetto, of the organization’s overarching goal.

The Seven Canyons Trust is “a nonprofit working to uncover and restore the buried and impaired creeks in the Salt Lake Valley,” according to its website.

The proposed project would transform the area in South Salt Lake from a series of disjointed industrial zones and hidden waterways into a thriving community asset, Pessetto said.

Seven Canyons Trust previously worked on the Three Creeks Confluence in Salt Lake City, where a parking lot was reshaped into a public space bringing together three creeks before they join the Jordan River.

For South Salt Lake, the vision is similar but tailored to the unique challenges of the Mill Creek landscape, Pessetto said. “To truly bring Mill Creek to life, we need a unified approach that weaves together things like land use, zoning, environmental restoration and innovative design in ways that everyone can really stand behind.”

To help develop this plan, the city partnered with the Urban Land Institute Utah to conduct a technical assistance panel. This process involved bringing in experts to spend two full days surveying the area and interviewing more than 40 stakeholders to understand the challenges and opportunities.

“Serving on a technical assistance panel is [a] significant commitment,” said ULI Utah Executive Director Kristen Cordova. “We spent more time, more time than I can even tell you trying to prepare for this.”

The panel identified several key goals, including improving access to the creek—which is currently hidden under State Street and behind parking lots—and improving east-west connectivity within the community.

“The creek provides an opportunity to improve that connectivity,” Gretchen Milliken, an architect and urban planner serving on the panel, said. “This could spur on the kind of development that can give back to the community.”

While some sections of the creek, particularly near State Street, face challenges regard-

ing private property ownership, the city plans to focus initially on publicly owned property as a “low-hanging fruit” for restoration, Department of Neighborhoods Director Sharen Hauri told the city council.

“We can tackle publicly owned property for right now,” she said. “That’s going to be the easy win.”

The project, which is expected to take several years, could be financed through various grants and other things such as creating a Public Infrastructure District and forming a

community reinvestment area.

The next step is to secure some grant funding for design work and for a project feasibility study, something Seven Canyons Trust has committed to help the city with.

Working with Seven Canyons Trust and the technical assistance panel has motivated city staff to pursue this project and clean up the water way, Hauri said.

“This has really spurred us back into action,” she said. “Luckily, we have people who really care and are working on it.” l

Longtime and recently retired Cottonwood Athletic Director Greg Southwick dies at age 61

Southwick passed away unexpectedly in a Cedar City hospital in late January.

By Brian Shaw b.shaw@mycityjournals.com

Terriblenews never comes at the right time or the right place.

That was the case Jan. 21 after Greg Southwick passed away in a Cedar City hospital.

He was 61.

The longtime athletic director at Cottonwood High School had just retired from teaching this past summer, and said he was looking forward to working on his Richfield farm and spending more time with his family.

A career educator and coach, Southwick touched many lives along the way, passing along decades of wisdom and experience gleaned as a high school teacher and coach in several sports.

That sort of knowledge was even passed on to current Cottonwood Athletic Director James MacIntyre, who said Southwick was always just a phone

Harvest said that Southwick was a mentor and a true friend to him and to other coaches, as well.

“He truly was one of kind, he dedicated a large part of his life to Cottonwood commuting from his residence in Richfield,” said Harvest, who now coaches at Taylorsville and led the Colts

es that Southwick helped develop and mentor; Cottonwood head basketball coach Tes Soracco was another.

“It’s almost impossible to choose just one memory of Greg Southwick because he was woven into so many meaningful moments of our program and my life. What I will always remember most is how he showed up consistently, quietly and with so much care for me and for our girls,” Soracco said. “The players adored him. After practice, they would stop by his office for chocolate milk and simply sit and talk with him. He made them feel safe, valued and important. Greg was always there when we needed support, encouragement or belief, and he gave it freely.”

As for Casey Miller, Cottonwood head football coach from 2019 to 2022, one game epitomized Southwick—not only as a school administrator but as a human being.

“Greg was always down to earth and understanding of how difficult coaching can be. When we went down south to Richfield to play, they beat us pretty badly,” recounted Miller. “After the game we were loading the bus up and Greg pops on the bus with a big smile on his face carrying boxes of pizza and made sure all the kids got some pizza and tried to cheer them all up. It was an awesome thing to do for the kids after we had just got blown out and had a long ride ahead of us.”

For Soracco, she also knows she wouldn’t be where she

“Our girls basketball program is what it is today because of him, and his absence is deeply felt by all of us who were lucky enough to know him. I am the coach I am today because of his guidance, honesty and friendship,” Soracco said. “He will

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Utah State Board of Education grapples with proposed budget cuts on tight deadline

“We found out six days ago that we’re supposed to make a cut of almost $300 million, and we’re supposed to come up with a list (of programs). There’s panic across the state because of this,” says one board member.

By Lizzie Walje l.walje@mycityjournals.com

Atthe end of January during the Utah legislative general session, Utah Board of Education members stood before legislators with two proposed plans regarding budget cuts. The first of which only proposed $37 million in cuts, a far cry from the $163 million that lawmakers initially requested.

Sen. Lincoln Fillmore (R-South Jordan) responded by telling board members their proposal was “not even close.”

The Utah State legislature often requests state agencies to reassess funding, meaning this isn’t necessarily uncharted territory for the Utah Board of Education. This year in particular, the legislature requested all state agencies to outline the impact of a potential 5% funding reduction. The legislature did, however, specify that the Utah Board of Education would not need to propose a full 5% cut figure. For context, the overall funding budget for Utah education is $5.9 billion. A cut of 5% would therefore result in a loss of $295 million. Instead, the legislature asked the board to propose a plan equaling $163 million in cuts.

Fillmore further expressed his frustrations when he stated, “I don’t know why you would come to us with this massive one-time reduction and say, ‘This is part of our plan.’”

On the other hand, many Utah Board of Education members seem just as displeased, with several expressing their dissatisfaction with lawmakers. Prior to the board members appearing in front of legislators, an hours long Utah Board of Education meeting was held to discuss the funding cuts. Board member Erin Longacre spoke passionately about the issue, saying, “I want the legislatures to walk through the halls of these schools, and you tell those kids what programs you’re going to cut. Not happening. You find somewhere else to cut things. You look under every single rock in Utah, and you make cuts. Not in education. Not for our kids.”

Fast forward to the proposal meeting, Amanda Bollinger, vice chair of the Utah Board of Education, responded to Fillmore by saying she realized the initial plan didn’t get them to “where they needed to be.”

The acknowledgment of the initial bill’s shortcoming was then followed by a presentation of the second proposed plan. This plan began with the same figure of $37 million and then added on a sweeping 6% reduction across all remaining school programs to achieve the

overall goal. Many board members felt this would be the most equitable way to achieve the necessary funding cut figure. This included cuts to programs that fund student mental health support, literacy and special education.

The decision to cut literacy funding comes amid newly released data that indicates half of Utah’s young students are unable to read at the appropriate grade level. The data comes from the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah. As of 2026, only one school district in the entire state, Park City School District, was able to reach 70% literacy proficiency, reporting 70.1% in 2025. Many other districts, including Salt Lake, weren’t able to achieve even 50% proficiency.

The initial response from government officials seemed impassioned, as they vowed to address the literacy issue aggressively with policy changes. This includes Utah’s Early Literacy Outcomes Improvement Act (SB 127, 2022) which aims to address these challenges by setting a statewide goal of 70% third-grade reading proficiency by 2027 by strengthening supports. It then begs the question why literacy is being specifically targeted with funding cuts. That specific part of the overall cut proposals would result in slashing $10.6 million worth in software licenses for early literacy promotion.

The Utah public has also had strong reactions to the prospect of funding being diverted heavily from special education programs. One of these concerned constituents is Kristen Floyd, a licensed therapist and executive director of Ability Inclusion Services.

“Anybody that has experienced balancing budgets and strategic planning knows that there can be some severe ramifications by trying to plan something in just a couple hours,” Floyd said. “So to make these kinds of decisions with just moments to decide, I think is reckless.”

Her concerns further touched on how these cuts would impact disability scholarships, which are in place to help families with disabled students gain access to treatment and programs outside of school.

“I’m really concerned and families should be concerned. It’s our families and our kids and vulnerable individuals that reside in Utah that are going to ultimately feel this impact,” Floyd said.

The proposed 92% reduction to disability scholarship programs would impact funding efforts by decreasing the allotted funding figure from $4 million to $300,000.

“Our disability situation in Utah is already grossly underfunded,” Floyd said. “Now we’re going to cut it again, where we’ve been asking for rate increases or services to be increased for these individuals.”

Most board members don’t seem frustrated by the prospect of having to make cuts, again, such is routine. For many board members the frustration lies in how quickly the state asked for budgeting proposals to be turned around, offering less than a month for board

members to assess, deliberate and propose.

It all began when the Utah Board of Education received a letter from the chairs of the Legislature’s Public Education Appropriations Subcommittee, asking members to come up with recommendations to reduce the budget by 5%, or $295.8 million. Scott Jones, the Utah Board of Education deputy superintendent of operations, later clarified to the board that the recommendations had to total around $163 million.

Still, tensions were high as the hours long deliberation left many board members feeling rushed and overwhelmed.

“I say this with all due respect, frankness and honesty: I think this whole process has been totally unfair to the board. We found out six days ago that we’re supposed to make

a cut of almost $300 million, and we’re supposed to come up with a list (of programs). There’s panic across the state because of this,” Longacre said.

Some board members also feel strongly that the legislature often fails to work in a collaborative nature to reach solutions. “I want the legislature to come to the table with us and engage with us through the legislative process,” board member Sarah Reale said. “Oftentimes they’re passing bills and legislation without even consulting with the state school board. It gets really frustrating year after year to keep seeing that happen.”

The final decision regarding education funding cuts will be determined by the end of Utah’s legislative general session which is slated to conclude March 6.l

South Salt Lake named a ‘City of Kindness’ by Good Housekeeping magazine

City has integrated compassionate initiatives into its infrastructure and community culture.

By Linda Petersen l.petersen@mycityjournals.com

SouthSalt Lake has achieved national rec-

Wood said in a press release. “Let’s be the kind of neighbors and people we want in our community.”

“When the world seems contentious it is inspiring to see communities, like South Salt Lake, make a conscientious focus on kindness,” said One Kind Act a Day Director Mason Bennett in the same press release.

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ognition for its dedication to fostering a compassionate community environment. The city is featured in the January/February 2026 issue of Good Housekeeping magazine, in a story that highlights its official designation as a “City of Kindness.”

“Here good deeds are a daily habit,” the story said of South Salt Lake City.

The “City of Kindness” initiative has included implementation of kindness themes into the annual Mural Fest, specifically involving youth from Promise South Salt Lake to paint murals and the distribution of free “City of Kindness” yard signs available at City Hall and through city delivery.

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South Salt Lake is one of only four communities nationwide—and the only one in Utah—to receive this spotlight for integrating kindness into city infrastructure, schools and business culture. The others are Fort Collins, Colorado; Murray, Kentucky; and Silverwood, California.

For the past year the city has partnered with “One Kind Act a Day,” a local nonprofit founded by the Semnani Family Foundation to create a safe, welcoming and respected environment for all residents amid national contention.

Beyond this initiative, the foundation is known for establishing the Maliheh Free Clinic in Salt Lake City to provide healthcare to the uninsured.

Through its efforts, the city has been certified by the foundation as a “City of Kindness.”

“One of the most important messages I want to share with residents is that when we create a community of kindness, we create a safe space for everyone,” Mayor Cherie

“Driving around and seeing the yard signs in residents’ yards is one of the metrics I can really see, and how it’s helped...who knows how many people [who] can walk by the mural and see a fun kindness mural,” city spokesperson Joseph Danes said. “We are very committed to that work.”

The city has also implemented the “Kindness in Action” program, which allows employees to nominate coworkers for witnessed acts of kindness. The initiative aims to inspire intentional acts of kindness daily, not just large gestures, Danes said.

The magazine highlighted the city because it shows how kindness initiatives are becoming a crucial component of a community’s quality of life and social fabric.

The city plans to continue this focus. During the upcoming State of the City address on March 16, South Salt Lake will present its first “Kindness in Action Employee of the Year” award. Residents are encouraged to visit www.thepowerofkind.org to take the kindness pledge and contribute to the growing movement. l

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Utah Dream Fund P.2

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Cherie Wood, Mayor 801-464-6757 mayor@sslc.gov

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220 E Morris Ave, SSL, UT 84115

Spring Cleanup

The Spring Citywide Cleanup Program will take place May 11-20, 2026. Details at sslc.gov

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For more info: www.sslc.gov CITY COUNCIL

Wednesdays, March 11 & 25, 7 pm PLANNING COMMISSION

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A Shared Commitment:

Building a Safer, More Connected South Salt Lake

As our community continues to grow and evolve, my top priority remains enhancing the quality of life for every resident, business owner, and visitor. Central to this mission is the safety and well-being of our community, which is why I am proud to share the South Salt Lake Police Department’s 2026 priorities.

This plan is more than just a list of goals; it represents a firm commitment to accountability, professional conduct, and measurable results. Grounded in the Six Pillars of 21st Century Policing, the strategy aligns our operations with national best practices to ensure we are serving you with the highest level of integrity and professionalism.

The Six Pillars of 21st Century Policing are:

1. Building Trust and Legitimacy

2. Policy and Oversight

3. Technology and Social Media

4. Community Outreach and Crime Reduction

5. Training and Education

6. Officer Wellness and Safety

At its core, a community policing model is based on building and maintaining strong relationships. We expect our officers to know the neighborhoods they serve, listen to your concerns, and work collaboratively to solve problems. We are also increasing our transparency by implementing regular reporting and interactive data dashboards. These tools allow you to see real crime data and hold the department to the high standards the community insists on.

We recognize that to serve you effectively, our officers must be well-supported and highly trained. Our new policies include annual mental health check-ins for all department employees and require 100 hours of annual training per officer, which far exceeds state requirements. By focusing on leadership, critical thinking, and de-escalation, we are shifting toward a model of policing that emphasizes prevention alongside enforcement.

We recognize that many in our community are feeling uncertain right now. We want to assure you that contacting the South Salt Lake Police Department is always appropriate, as their sole focus is ensuring community safety. Public safety works best when every person feels comfortable speaking up and engaging with our officers.

I invite you to review the full 2026 Plan on our city website to learn more about how we are working together to maintain a safe, inclusive, and connected South Salt Lake.

In partnership with Salt Lake City Public Utilities, South Salt Lake Stormwater offers residents the opportunity to buy low-cost rain barrels. Rain barrels can be used to water outdoor landscapes, reducing the demand of outdoor irrigation. Rain barrels can be purchased online at sslc.gov.

Free Consultations to Help You Save Water

This year’s snowpack is shaping up to be the lowest on record. That means that conserving water is more important than ever. Our partners at the Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District are making it easy to evaluate your outdoor water usage and find solutions by giving away free 15-minute virtual consultations to help you identify ways to save water and money on your water bill. Learn more by visiting NewYearNewYard.com.

CITY COUNCIL

• Find Your

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At-Large Clarissa Williams

At-Large Ray deWolfe

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2 Corey Thomas

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Sharla Bynum

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Nick Mitchell

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Introducing

Promise South Salt Lake Foundation

13 years ago, Promise South Salt Lake became a department of the City focused on fulfilling three promises to our community: that each child has the opportunity to attend and graduate from college; that every resident has a safe, clean home and neighborhood; and that everyone can be healthy and prosper. We’ve worked to accomplish these goals through a patchwork of different funding sources including City funds, and state and federal grants.

Today we are proud to introduce the newly formed Promise South Salt Lake Foundation, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization that will allow us to diversify our revenue streams and continue uplifting community members to reach their full potential from cradle to career and beyond.

To donate to Promise South Salt Lake please visit our website at https://www.sslc. gov/329/Promise-SSL You can also contact Tim Johns in our Advancement Office at (385) 414-4652.

First-time Home Buyer Support in South Salt Lake

The Utah Dream Fund (UDF) is a collaborative program for first time homebuyers that aims to create a path to homeownership for those who are ready to buy but are unable to afford a traditional mortgage. For households making less than 140% AMI, UDF lowers the cost of homeownership by providing up to 40% of the home’s value in a second interest-free mortgage. When the buyer eventually sells or refinances their home, UDF shares a portion of the home’s value instead of charging monthly interest payments. Thanks to a private donation, a portion of the UDF’s funds have been set aside to purchase homes in South Salt Lake and Millcreek. To learn more about this program, visit utahdreamfund.com or contact Promise SSL’s Housing Navigator Fairuz Noshin at fnoshin@sslc.gov.

City News

CAREER FAIR

SAVE THE DATE

Promise South Salt Lake and the PSSL Co-Op are excited to invite you to our Spring career fair!

Wednesday March 25 , 2026 th

Time

4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

South Salt Lake Community Center 2531 S. 400 E. promisessl

Register by March 30th! Scan the QR code or visit sslc.gov to sign up.

TINY TOTS FAIR 9-10:30AM Diaper Drive! bring a donation for a chance to win a prize!

APRIL 4TH

CENTRAL PARK 2797 S. 200 E.

The Community Emergency Response Team is a volunteer group that trains emergency response skills to help our community in the event of a disaster.

The next SSL CERT training session is coming up in May. Scan the QR code to learn more and sign up!

Congratulations to Officer LaBounty for being recognized for his outstanding and dedicated service to our community with the Officer of the Year Award, presented at this year’s SSL Police Department Annual Banquet. Beyond the core duties, he consistently provided invaluable extra service by focusing on critical quality of life concerns. His proactive and tireless efforts in addressing traffic-related issues, including strict but fair enforcement of parking regulations, efficient handling of vehicle impounds, and persistent patrolling to curb speeding, have resulted in a safer, more orderly, and more livable environment for all residents.

His commitment demonstrates a deep understanding of the community’s needs and a proactive approach to improving daily life. As a dedicated Field Training Officer he not only excelled in his duties but also demonstrated a deep commitment in shaping the next generation of officers in a positive and respectful manner.

The Insurance Services Office (ISO) Public Protection Classification program is a rigorous grading system that evaluates a community’s fire suppression capabilities based on four critical pillars: emergency communications, fire department operations, water supply, and risk reduction programs. By assessing these factors, ISO assigns a score that major insurers use to determine insurance coverage availability and premium costs for residents and businesses. Achieving an ISO Class 1 rating—a distinction held by less than 1% of departments nationwide and only two in Utah—signifies that South Salt Lake provides the highest level of fire protection. For our community, this elite status not only validates our commitment to safety and property protection but

translates into

and enhanced peace of mind.

women’s SECTION

A publication covering local influential women in honor of International Women’s Day

The small team holding up the hope of change for Utah women

By Rebecca Olds | rebecca.o@thecityjournals.com

The Utah Women and Leadership Project, founded by Susan Madsen, is a research pumping machine with a goal of making Utah a better place by empowering women and removing obstacles.

A lone silhouette is a harsh contrast against the glare of a lit monitor.

Before the sun comes up, Susan Madsen sits at her computer: inbox and task list open for the day. While the house is quiet, her inbox starts to fill up for the day.

“Early morning…it’s been invaluable for me,” she said. “I always was up earlier than anybody, and it would be quiet, and I could make sense of the world.”

She uses the slow time to plan out her day and answer each email, following her team standard that “everyone deserves an answer.”

“I have a process of looking at my day, looking at my workload, figuring things out,” she said. “I reprioritize every single day.”

She might even reprioritize multiple times in a day. She’s constantly moving and pushing forward despite the odds and a small team.

Madsen, in addition to her professorship at Utah State University, is the founder of the Utah Women and Leadership Project, which has published 21 research-based white paper reports, 65 research snapshots and infographics, 68 research and policy briefs and hosted 45 “Think Tank” gatherings in Utah since 2010.

Madsen and four full-time employees — associate director Brie Sparks, local outreach and curriculum manager Deborah Lin, marketing and communications coordinator Emmalee Chastain, program assistant Kylie Hollingsworth — have made a

big push to raise awareness of the existing gaps in Utah for girls and women.

“Our work is having an impact across the state, and that is what motivates me,” Lin said. “In my role, I have visited 20 of our 29 Utah counties to get to know residents and build relationships to help with grassroots efforts to raise awareness and impact change around issues facing girls, women and families.”

“Everywhere I have been, men and women recognize the need for change.”

The “change” she is referring to encompasses topics like making more leadership opportunities available for more women, daycare options in the state, and homelessness resources for women.

Currently, the project involves close to 7,000 people statewide, with 500 partners and 300 leaders in different counties and cities, Madsen said.

Four counties and seven cities/towns have passed official resolutions to support the project’s initiative they call “A Bolder Way Forward.”

“Our efforts to equip Utah communities with the data and resources needed to help more girls, women and families thrive are just one piece of the way forward,” Sparks said. “Creating lasting change for future generations of girls and women requires a systems-based approach, and I’m honored to help build the strategic connections that make that possible.”

Madsen admits that it hasn’t been

easy for any of them, but she continues in her efforts because she feels called to help women through the best way she knows how: research.

“What has driven me for decades is research,” she said, “and getting it into the hands of people that are making decisions.”

And in the hands of decision makers it is.

Madsen, in addition to her professorship and affiliation with USU, considers herself an activist and encourages others to be too. She is frequently on Capitol Hill

advocating for change with her research and “works alongside legislators.”

“We should all be advocates and into the work of social justice,” she said. “If we care about other people, if we care about our communities, if we care about our state, if we care about our extended family, if we care about any of that, we should be in whatever topic connects with us.”

For the research and recommendations on how to get involved in UWLP for Salt Lake County or any other country in the state, visit www.usu.edu/uwlp/research/what-can-i-do.

Sen. Luz Escamilla is presented with the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil Rights Award

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

The senator was recognized for her work championing families and justice.

Each year, the Salt Lake NAACP recognizes a community leader who advocates for justice, equal opportunity and community empowerment. At the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration Luncheon in January, Utah Senate Democratic Leader Luz Escamilla was honored with this year’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil Rights Award.

Escamilla was elected to the Utah Senate in 2008 and is now serving her fifth term, representing Senate District 10, which covers portions of Salt Lake City and West Valley. Escamilla serves as vicechair of the Senate Ethics committee and champions policies she believes strengthen families, expand opportunity and protect the rights of all Utahns.

“Dr. King taught us that the greatest danger to justice is not loud hatred, but quiet acceptance,” she said. “Not just overt cruelty, but systems that institutionalize injustice. He warned us that injustice thrives when it is legalized, bureaucratized and justified as necessary. This lesson matters. It mattered then, and it matters now more

than ever, especially here in Utah.”

This year’s award theme, “The Fierce Urgency of Now,” reflects King’s call for action and accountability in the face of injustice. At the luncheon, Escamilla spoke out against a proposed 7,500-bed ICE detention center in Salt Lake and said Utah faces a moral crossroad where people must decide whether they choose fear or courage, whether they will learn from history or repeat harsh lessons from the past.

“As a woman of color and an immigrant, I carry this reality with me every day, and I feel for all the families and children who are fearful that you can’t believe in the power of the beloved community,” she said. “Dr. King often reminded us that the law is not the same as justice. He challenged the idea that legality alone makes something right. He called on people of conscience to disrupt unjust systems even when they were politically inconvenient.”

Salt Lake NAACP President Jeanetta Williams said the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. award recognizes individuals whose service and leadership advance the ideas of advocacy and a deep commitment to equity.

The organization is dedicated to en-

suring the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights for all persons and to eliminating discrimination based on race. Williams said Escamilla’s accomplishments include helping to establish the West High School medical clinic for students and fighting for social justice for people across all demographics.

“The award honors a Utah citizen whose work has advanced civil rights in our state through Dr. King’s legacy of nonviolence,” Williams said. “We looked at a lot of the legislative bills that Sen. Escamilla had worked on, some passed, some didn’t, but for the most part, the bills affected the entire state of Utah and followed the vision of Dr. King.”

Originally from Mexico, Escamilla became the first immigrant elected to the Utah Legislature and the first Latina elected to the Utah Senate. She said she’s committed to building community as a promise to protect each other, especially during times of fear.

“To everyone else: organizing and advocating and speaking out at this moment, you are carrying the legacy of Dr. King,” Escamilla said. “I accept this award, and I celebrate it in a personal way, but I’m also seeing it as a charge. A charge to speak the truth, to stand firm and not be afraid, and to

ensure that when history looks back on this moment, it will say that Utah did the right thing and that we choose justice, that we choose courage, and that we choose each other, with love.”

Holladay’s city manager provides a steady hand of leadership

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

Gina Chamness guides the city’s course with deliberate planning.

Most residents don’t think about how cities are run. As long as roads are safe, water is clean and parks are open, city administration rarely crosses their minds.

But behind the scenes, it takes a functional team and deliberate planning to make city services seem effortless. In Holladay, the person coordinating that teamwork is City Manager Gina Chamness, who’s been with the city for 10 years.

Chamness is a rarity in Utah. According to a December 2024 policy brief put out by the Utah Women and Leadership Project, of the 250-plus cities in the state, only 13 of them had women serving as city managers or administrators.

“I think that’s starting to change,” Chamness said. “It feels like there are more women in assistant city manager roles, more women as department heads, but as far as my generation, there haven’t been many of us. I’ve been really lucky.”

Chamness never imagined she’d serve in municipal government. She started her career at the federal level, working for a congressional agency, but political dysfunction persuaded her to look for other opportunities.

With a political science degree and a master’s in public administration from the

University of Utah, Chamness landed a job with Salt Lake City, working her way up to become the city’s finance director in 2014.

When the Holladay city manager position opened, she felt it was the next best move for her career and family, since she and her husband, attorney Ralph Chamness, have lived in Holladay since 2003.

“I saw this position posted and it felt perfect,” she said. “I was excited to apply. The opportunity to serve a community where you live felt like something I could be really excited about.”

Chamness acts as the CEO of the city, managing administrative functions, working with elected officials and ensuring ordinances, policies and rules are observed. When she first started with Holladay, the city was struggling. Aging infrastructure, stunted growth and a lack of direction left Holladay stagnant.

Working with the mayor at the time, Rob Dahle, Chamness held discussions with city residents, elected officials and city staff to prioritize areas of focus.

“Ten years ago, we didn’t have much of a commercial base,” she said. “We were banking on redevelopment of the [Cottonwood] mall and then the great recession set redevelopment back. The question was, how could we build a city that was going to be financially sustainable? That was a big chal-

lenge for several years.”

Investing in infrastructure was another concern. With some parts of the community more than 100 years old, Chamness knew a concerted effort and lots of money had to be allocated to improve infrastructure.

Restructuring the city took patience. Much like turning an ocean liner, it needed a coordinated shift to move something so large and complex.

“Everyone wants to do things quickly. Sometimes people complain about how long the government takes to do things,” Chamness said. “Making sure you have adequate time to listen to residents and making sure elected officials build that conversation into their own planning and into the process is critical. I think we’ve done a pretty good job of that. I wish the residents understood how critical the services we provide are to their day-to-day lives.”

Over the last decade, Holladay has improved road quality, invested in development, attracted businesses that fit the community, expanded the sidewalk system and recently acquired the Spring Lane Elementary property to develop a new park.

Chamness builds bridges between elected officials, residents and city staff, while working with other government agencies, organizations and committees to create a city that residents are proud of.

“I think the best attribute for describing Gina’s success would be ‘trust,’” said

Holladay Mayor Paul Fotheringham. “My colleagues on the council have always felt a keen sense of trust for Gina; trust in her judgment, trust in the depth and breadth of her expertise from budgetary and legal issues to citizen engagement and public policy.”

Chamness admits the job as city manager is stressful, but she’s comfortable with conflict, especially when it leads to a better outcome for Holladay. She encourages women to pursue leadership roles, whether in government or business.

“I tell women, you could absolutely do this,” she said. “I really do feel like I have the best job in the valley.”

Utah Women’s Day in Sports empowers next generation of female athletes

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

More than 400 high school student-athletes from across the state gathered for a morning focused on teamwork, leadership, mental health and empowerment in girls’ sports.

It began as a simple game of rock, paper, scissors, but quickly became a lesson in teamwork. Everyone played at first, then losers backed their opponents until only two players remained. Silence fell as they competed, then cheers erupted when the round ended in a tie. After four rounds, one girl finally emerged victorious.

The exercise wasn’t about winning, but about being a good teammate.

“How does it feel to be celebrated by your peers?” asked Poudre School District (Fort Collins, Colorado) health and physical education coordinator Jo Dixon, who emphasized that every player has a role — scorer, defender, supporter, teammate. “Being a part of someone else’s fan club is just as important and powerful as being in the spotlight, because lifting others up feels awesome.”

The interactive activity was part of a breakout session at the third annual Utah Women’s Day in Sports conference held Feb. 4 at the Delta Center, the day before National Girls & Women in Sports Day.

Dixon continued the partner activities designed to build unity. Student-athletes stood toe-to-toe and told each other: “Everyone is battling something in life, and I’m glad you’re battling with me.” Then, they stood back-to-back and said, “I’m so glad someone has my back — and I have yours.” The activity ended with a pinky promise and the words: “I pinky promise to help you unlock your greatness so the world can see it like I do.”

“We want you to be a good teammate from the inside out,” Dixon said.

The event’s origin began with Andee Bouwhuis, past president of Utah Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association and Deseret Peak High School athletic director, along with Utah High School Activities Association Assistant Director Jan Whittaker and UIAAA communications coordinator and Cedar Valley High School Athletic Director Sharon Mardesich.

“Our goal is female empowerment; support our female athletes; grow leaders,” Bouwhuis said. “We’re letting these female athletes know that we hear them and we see them. We want them to be successful.”

More than 400 student-athletes statewide attended, supported by about 100 coaches and athletic directors. Participation from each school was limited to ensure broader representation.

“The athletes are charged to take back what they learned and teach it to their teammates,” she said.

Another breakout session focused on nutrition, led by Intermountain Health’s Josseline Kelley, who emphasized fueling, hydration and sleep.

“Our goal is to make sure that we’re eating something every three to four hours as athletes,” she said as she gave the student-athletes specific suggestions. “The worst thing you can do is go into a competition or training session without fueling. Under fueling can be very common in teens.”

University of Utah Assistant Director of Olympic Sport Performance Carly Fehler addressed competing in college athletics.

“Your whole life is going to change

overnight,” Fehler said. “Your city, your bed, your routine, your team and coach. Literally, everything changes. And are you prepared for that? Only nine percent of high school girls will go on to play in college. Two percent of all high school athletes will play Division I.”

While some student-athletes attended workshops, adults participated in a “Coach Beyond” session focused on supporting athlete mental health.

“I’ve been an athlete for my whole life, and I’ve seen the way mental health affects the performances of athletes,” said college athlete and presenter Makayla Pitcher. “Coaches are the front line, so it’s important for them to understand and help.”

Cottonwood High Principal and presenter Justin Pitcher emphasized the need for better training and resources for coaches.

“We need to do better by our athletes here in Utah, he said. “Our data shows over half of every female team has experienced significant sadness or depression. We look at our coaches and their training. Many of them were former athletes so they understand the game well, but they don’t always know how best to handle these tough situations that we’ve been put in.”

Speaker Amy Donaldson highlighted the origins of Title IX and opportunities it presented.

“They drafted a piece of legislation that was unlike today, with 37 words,” she said. “Even though everyone thought it was this little administrative adjustment… they had no idea of (the impact of) that law.”

Donaldson encouraged student-athletes to examine their journey, to be optimistic, to wire their brains for gratitude and forgiveness, to know “no accomplishment is an individual accomplishment.”

Karissa Niehoff, National Federation of State High School Association’s executive director and CEO, challenged the next generation to continue advancing opportunities for women.

“Look at the women who came before us, and look at where we are now, and look at the future of growth in women’s and girls’ sports,” she said. “We’ve come a long way. As a woman CEO in a sports world, I feel blessed, but I challenge you as a younger generation…to carry this forward. We have to be committed to working forward so we continue the growth we need in girls who play sports in Utah.”

UHSAA Assistant Director Jeff Cluff said the progress in girls sports, including expanded championships and the addition of girls wrestling, has helped to equalize opportunities.

“We’re trying to create equal opportunities for the girls that boys have been getting for years,” he said. “We have still more to do and more to change.”

Copper Hills High seniors Brynlee Morton and Kaysha Millet said the conference left a lasting impression.

“I love how inclusive it is,” Morton said. “Everyone has valuable knowledge, and they’re sharing their expertise with us.”

Millet added: “They’re spreading awareness and information; it’s empowering to us as women athletes.”

Women are stepping up to lead Utah’s cities

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

Female mayors move from the exception to the norm.

When South Salt Lake Mayor Cherie Wood was first elected in 2010, she was a notable exception. Along with Midvale Mayor JoAnn Seghini, Wood was only the second female mayor serving in Salt Lake County at the time.

She and other women, including Riverton Mayor Sandra Lloyd, Taylorsville Mayor Janice Auger and Holladay Mayor Liane Stillman, were trailblazers and glass ceiling-breakers, setting the stage for women to take the lead, and it’s paying off.

“It’s always been a passion project for me to make sure we have women at tables where decisions are being made,” Wood said. “So I’m always encouraging women to run for office.”

Entering such a male-dominated field wasn’t easy. While many of their male counterparts offered support and encouragement, the women also encountered misogyny and roadblocks. Learning to navigate their leadership roles took patience, balance and a thick skin in order to stay the course while representing their cities.

Now, many cities in Salt Lake County are led by female mayors, including the new-

ly elected Cottonwood Heights Mayor Gay Lynn Bennion and Riverton Mayor Tish Buroker. Add in Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall and Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson, and female leadership is becoming the norm, rather than the exception.

“It is so important that young women and young men see women in leadership,” Bennion said. “It’s important for them to know that women can do a great job as leaders.”

Organizations like Utah Women Run and the Women’s Leadership Institute have provided training for women who want a leadership role, whether in politics or business. Women are taught to participate on boards, campaign, fundraise, advocate for themselves and develop a platform and voice that others want to follow.

Initiatives like A Bolder Way Forward focus on creating safe spaces for women in boardrooms, education, political office and civic organizations.

WLI’s Director of Programs and Operations, Nicole Carpenter, said the organization’s founder, Pat Jones, is a former Utah Senator who believes women need a seat at the table.

“We need the voices of women in all areas of leadership, particularly on Capitol

Hill, where women can make decisions,” Carpenter said. “It’s important for women to have a vote, but it’s even more important for women to have a voice. To have a voice in those political circles, you need to hold an office, or you need to be a lobbyist, or have some type of political influence. So we encourage women to run for political office.”

It’s not just Salt Lake County; Utah County and Davis County have also had their share of female leaders, including Kaysville Mayor Tami Tran, who was just elected to her second term. Not only is she a political leader, but she’s the CEO of a tech company, Rylex.

“When I became a mayor five years ago, for my first term, there were nine mayors who were new in Davis County, so almost half, since there are 15 cities,” Tran said. “Nine of us were new and three of us were women, so it was awesome to mentor each other and learn from each other. Women can see things in such a unique way, because we bring different perspectives to the room.”

Tran hopes more women run for political office, whether on the local, state or federal level, but acknowledges some women worry about balancing leadership roles with family.

Wood was a single mother, raising two boys, when she became mayor in SSL. She understands the fear and uncertainty, but she found support and people who believed

in her. She said behaviors are slowly changing, with more understanding and empathy for women in leadership.

“I know it’s intimidating,” Wood said. “But there’s so much value to having different lived experiences and perspectives on councils and in elected office seats. When you invite all of those perspectives and give them a safe place to be heard, that’s when you’re going to solve big problems.”

For information about running for office, visit UtahWomenRun.org.

The Boob Bus makes mammograms accessible for all women

By Cassie Goff | c.goff@mycityjournals.com

“Let’s get all the girls together to go get dinner and mammograms!” is the vibe Rena Vanzo is going for with mammogram screenings on The Boob Bus.

One in every eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. For every Utah woman, that translates to about a 12.5% chance of developing cancer.

“Every family, every community, every church group, every book club—all of them will be impacted. Prevention is the best medicine,” said CEO and co-founder of The Boob Bus Rena Vanzo.

The Boob Bus is a mobile unit that offers mammograms, health care screening, breast cancer assessment and other healthcare services to women locally. The main goal of The Boob Bus is to make mammograms more accessible and comfortable.

“Utah women are just not doing their mammograms. We’re way below the national average,” said Vanzo. In 2022, Utah was ranked 48th out of the 50 states in the nation for mammogram screening.

Vanzo and her team have been working to change that statistic by transforming typical health care screenings into modern experiences. The Boob Bus was fully customized as a health care space with neon

pink lights and vaulted ceilings.

“On The Boob Bus, you can expect to feel like an individual,” said driver and Patient Care Coordinator Kayla Pacheco. “Your history, your experiences and your fears are heard.”

An average visit to The Boob Bus begins by checking in to answer medical history questions. The data collected related to menstrual changes, hormones, breast density and personal medical history is used to calculate individual cancer risk.

“Breast density is really becoming more of a topic of conversation,” Vanzo said. “And it should be. Women with dense breasts do have a higher risk of breast cancer.”

Patients are offered heated pink robes instead of hospital gowns during their appointment. Individual women will meet with a licensed certified technologist privately in the mammogram suite for a screening.

Results are within one week. (Vanzo emphasizes that patients may be referred to a hospital for diagnostic screening depending on risk.) Patients leave The Boob Bus with branded lip balm, nail files and educational cards.

The entirely female Boob Bus team emphasizes the importance of destigmatizing women’s health with less shame and embar-

rassment through more conversation.

“I want to live in a world where even the men are saying to their partners ‘Hey, did you get your mammogram yet?’” Vanzo said.

Vanzo and her cofounders started The Boob Bus in 2022 after being personally impacted by individual family members battling cancer diagnoses. It took her two years to get The Boob Bus fully operational.

“I had to learn all of these extra things that are very useful in your life but you wouldn’t think they’d intersect in business,” Vanzo said.

Vanzo needed to get a CDL so she could drive the oversized custom bus. In preparation, she worked for UTA for six months to get trained as a driver in a structured environment.

“Rena is a superstar. I have never met anyone so driven to help others,” said Office and Billing Manager Jen Bartunek.

The Boob Bus primarily meets women for their mammograms all across Salt Lake, Utah and Davis Counties. Through their partnership with the Central Utah Health Department, The Boob Bus also travels to Central Utah.

The Boob Bus works with the Utah Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (UCCP) so uninsured women can still access their mammogram screenings through a voucher program.

The Boob Bus provides heated robes for mammogram appointments so it “feels more like a spa experience,” The Boob Bus founder Rena Vanzo said. (Photo courtesy of Rena Vanzo, The Boob Bus CEO and co-founder.)

El Programa de Detección del Cáncer de Mama y de Cuello Uterino es facilitado por el Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Utah y está financiado con fondos estatales y federales. El formulario de solicitud está disponible en español a través de lo siguiente: www. cancer.utah.gov

Individual women can book appointments online (even same day) through The Boob Bus website: www.theboobbus.com. Organizations, businesses or school districts can email or call The Boob Bus team (866-747-BOOB) to set up a day for group appointments.

Top spellers to compete at the Greater Northern Utah Spelling Bee

The Greater Northern Spelling Bee will be held on Saturday, March 7, at Wasatch Jr. High.

By Peri Kinder

peri.k@thecityjournals.com

More than 100 schools will be represented at the Greater Northern Utah Spelling Bee on Saturday, March 7, at 9 a.m. at Wasatch Jr. High in Millcreek (3750 S. 3100 East). Sponsored by the City Journals community newspapers, the winner of the event will travel to Washington, D.C., to compete at the Scripps National Spelling Bee during the final week of May.

Students participating in the regional bee will complete a written test before the competition, and everyone will have the opportunity to spell one word on stage. After finalizing the written test results, the top spellers will be announced and they will compete for the state championship, starting at approximately 11 a.m.

“The spelling bee teaches children the importance of hard work and aiming for the best,” said City Journals People Leader Elizabeth Sweat. “Preparing for an experience like this helps them gain confidence while strengthening language skills that further their education.”

The City Journals has hosted the regional spelling bee since 2014 and covers the trip to Washington, D.C. for the winner and one parent. City Journals Publisher Bryan Scott is proud to host the event each year, allowing these students to shine.

“I’ve been honored to host and sponsor this event for the last 12 years because it’s an investment in future leaders,” Scott said. “It’s been so much fun sending the winner to Washington, D.C., and watching them compete at the highest level. We’ve had some really smart kids come through this program.”

Last year’s winner, Roshan Kaushik from Challenger School Traverse Mountain, won the regional bee and took the stage at the Scripps National Spelling Bee, finishing tied for 36th.

Help send the regional champion to Washington, D.C., to compete at the Scripps National Spelling Bee by donating through the QR code. l

Last year’s winner, Roshan Kaushik, won the Northern Utah Regional Spelling Bee presented by the City Journals and went to Washington, D.C., to compete in the national bee. This year’s regional bee will be held on Saturday, March 7. (Peri Kinder/City Journals)

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From ashes to agency: Women find renewal through community

Beauty from Ashes nonprofit emphasizes empowerment for survivors of domestic abuse.

By Holly Curby hello@hollycurby.com

March carries a quiet promise. It’s the month when light stretches a little longer, winter begins to loosen its grip and renewal quietly takes root. For many women navigating trauma or abuse, healing unfolds in much the same way—gradual, unseen at first and requiring immense courage.

Lori Smithson knows this journey intimately. Widowed at 39 and later emerging from a destructive marriage marked by control, isolation and fear, she understands how disorienting trauma can be—especially when you don’t yet have the language to name what’s happening. “I just knew something was off,” she has shared, echoing the experience of countless women who sense danger long before they can articulate it.

Today, Smithson serves with Beauty from Ashes Ministries, a Utah-based nonprofit dedicated to walking alongside survivors of domestic abuse. Founded in 2019 after its director received a call from a woman hiding in her closet, the organization was born from a clear and urgent need:

long-term, compassionate support rooted in truth, dignity and hope.

The statistics are sobering. One in three women will experience abuse in her lifetime. Yet numbers fail to capture the bravery required to reach out for help. At Beauty from Ashes, the first goal is simple but profound—that every woman feels heard, believed and respected. There is no pressure to make immediate decisions, no imposed timelines and no shame. Survivors are met exactly where they are.

What distinguishes Beauty from Ashes is its emphasis on empowerment rather than rescue. Women are not told what to do; they are supported as they reclaim agency over their own lives. Trained advocates walk alongside survivors as they explore options, build safety plans and begin to trust their voices again. Support groups offer something many women have never experienced before: a space where their stories are met with understanding rather than doubt.

Healing often extends beyond emotional wounds. Trauma can fracture trust, relationships and even faith. For some survivors, spiritual manipulation or deep disappointment has made it difficult to reengage with God at all. Beauty from Ashes honors that complexity, allowing women to move at their own pace—whether that means studying scripture together or sim-

ply holding space for grief, anger and unanswered questions. Healing, as Smithson emphasizes, is not a race. It is a long, intentional process.

Hope, however, has a way of appearing in unexpected places. Smithson recalls women facing overwhelming odds—no financial support, limited community and ongoing hardship—

who nonetheless find stability, provision and renewed purpose through faith and connection. Many eventually give back, becoming advocates themselves. These stories are reminders that restoration is not theoretical. It is happening, one life at a time.

March also invites reflection. It asks what must be released for growth to occur. For survivors, that first step might be journaling to recognize patterns, seeking trauma-informed counseling, setting boundaries, or simply speaking the truth aloud. Truth, after all, is often where freedom begins.

Perhaps the most important message is this: no woman has to walk this path alone. Fear thrives in isolation, but healing grows in safe, supportive community. When women are believed, empowered, and surrounded by care, even the deepest wounds can give way to something new.

For those seeking support, or for individuals interested in volunteering or getting

involved, Beauty from Ashes Ministries welcomes connection. Help is available, and no one has to navigate abuse or healing alone. To learn more about services, request support or explore volunteer opportunities, visit www.BeautyfromAshesMinistries.org. To hear more stories like this and learn how women are reclaiming hope and purpose, listen to the Holly’s Highlights podcast wherever you stream podcasts and at www.hollycurby.com. l

Monthly memberships for physical and mental health care

Companies can subscribe to monthly memberships for health care for their employees instead of (or in addition to) buying into insurance costs.

By Cassie Goff cassie.g@thecityjournals.com

Paying

a monthly membership is a somewhat expected norm now for services like streaming, deliveries, spas and gyms – but what about health care? Medallus Medical has been reimagining what healthcare can look like for individuals, families and companies.

“We come up with innovative solutions to help people with high deductibles and companies who have increasing health care costs and reduce those while giving quality care with friendly delivery,” said the founder of Medallus Medical Dr. Rachot Vachathrone.

Working in the healthcare industry since 1997, Vachathrone noticed his patients were waiting until their health was severe before seeking treatment. They would tell him about their stresses and fears of high insurance deductibles and co-pays. Vachathrone began imagining how he might encourage patients to be more proactive with their healthcare if it were more affordable.

“Insurance is supposed to be for major things like surgeries and, God forbid, cancer or any of those diagnoses,” said Chief Business Development Officer Arliss Fernandez. “For everyday things like a cold, strep, bronchitis, pneumonia…stitches, fractures…and x-rays we can take care of that at urgent care clinics.”

Vachathrone’s “aha” moment came when he was reviewing his own personal finances and skimmed over the monthly gym membership charge. What if there was a membership for urgent and primary care? Now, Medallus Medical’s memberships provide patients with predictable access to care at an affordable

third-party companies to offer a handful of new or updated programs for physical and mental health. Medallus Medical is working to offer unlimited telehealth appointments 24 hours a day. Another program available to companies will allow adult employees to have access to three therapy sessions per year. In addition, Medallus Medical offers a prescription savings plan program where patients have zero copays for medications.

“We are growing, improving our services, and expanding our employer programs because we believe families and businesses deserve better options than what traditional healthcare usually provides,” Fernandez said. “Mental health and medications are what people need.”

monthly rate.

“Medicine should not be expensive,” Fernandez said. “We are trying to transition where we’re not going to be so reliant on insurance. It gives the opportunity for the provider to have more one-on-one with the patient.”

Medallus Medical offers urgent care and walk-in primary care for individuals, families, school districts, companies and cooperations based on a monthly membership structure. Medallus Medical can treat minor injuries and illnesses to ongoing primary care needs with basic labs and in-office procedures.

“If you look at the local school districts, their insurance is just skyrocketing and it’s out of control. It shouldn’t be that way. We are being an advocate…to structure insurance correctly and give insurance to employees that they’re going to use,” Fernandez said.

“We decided to make it walk-in. That way our day is not scheduled full and patients don’t have to go somewhere else and wait another day,” Vachathrone said.

This year, Medallus Medical is working to partner with

New companies signing up for Medallus Medical’s membership and/or programs can meet with their Patient Advocate Team who will visit with their employees to teach them how to use the Medallus membership and invite them in for their first primary care visit.

“We want you to be proactive,” Fernandez said. “If you’re getting vitals checked or same-day prescription refills – just walk-in. We encourage that.”

Medallus Medical has eight locations throughout the Wasatch Front; all open at 9 a.m. and close at either 7 p.m. or 8 p.m.

Medallus Medical’s urgent care locations can be found in: Holladay (3934 S. 2300 East), Draper (1126 E. Draper Pkwy.), Sandy (7998 S. 1300 East), South Jordan (10433 S. Redwood Road), Riverton (13348 S. Market Center Drive), West Valley City (3451 S. 5600 West), American Fork (476 N. 900 West #C) and Layton (1868 N. 1200 West).

For more information, call Medallus Medical at 877-6339110 or visit their website at: www.MedallusUrgentCare.com

“It’s about making people healthy,” Fernandez said. “We are trying to make medicine simple.” l

As a county councilmember, I spend a lot of time listening to concerns from constituents. I hear from parents who are stretched thin, seniors who feel lonely, young people who are anxious about the future, and workers who feel burned out even when they’re doing everything “right.” One thing is clear: many people are searching for happiness, but they aren’t sure where to find it.

Research from social scientists points to a clear answer. Happiness does not come from money alone, social media attention, or having an easier life. Arthur Brooks, a Harvard professor, social scientist and bestselling author teaches the science of happiness. He says that happiness comes from four things: faith, family, friendship and meaningful work.

The first is faith. People are happier when they believe their lives matter and are part of

tionships are one of the most reliable sources of long-term happiness. This doesn’t mean family life is easy. It takes patience, forgiveness and time. But people who invest in their families tend to feel more supported and less alone. Family can mean parents and children, grandparents, chosen family or relatives who show up when it counts. Simple actions— shared meals, regular check-ins or family tra-

out and make this happen. Communities are stronger when neighbors know each other, not just online, but in real life. Do you know the people who live three houses on either side of you and across the street? If not, make it a point this year to get to know them better. It helps keep your neighborhood safe and builds connection when you can all look out for each other.

The fourth is meaningful work. This does not mean everyone has to love every part of their job. But people are happier when they feel useful and see how their work helps someone else. Whether paid or unpaid, work gives people dignity and purpose. Parents raising children, volunteers, caregivers, students and workers all contribute value. When people feel needed, their confidence and happiness grow.

One important idea connects all four of

overall happiness.

As a community, we should make it easier for people to build these four foundations. That means supporting families, creating spaces for connection, valuing service and helping people find meaning in their lives. Happiness is not something government can give—but it is something we can support by strengthening the places where people live, work and belong. Make a goal this year to find ways you can help increase your own happiness.

Remember when you thought Mr. Monopoly wore a monocle, or you were convinced Curious George had a tail? Memory is a funny thing.

Or how about when NBC anchor Brian Williams “misremembered” being in a helicopter hit by anti-tank weapons in Iraq? His faulty memory got him suspended.

We all misremember things, but when an entire group does it, it’s called the Mandela Effect, a phenomenon that occurs when millions of people are confidently wrong. Like, remember when we all believed Vladimir Putin was a war criminal? LOL. Good times.

If you’re a Gen Xer, you might remember when the VHS tape got eaten by the VCR and you had to use brain surgeon-style techniques to carefully respool the video. But then the tape always had a wrinkled section where the movie would go wonky for a few seconds. That’s what my memory feels like most days: warped and staticky.

My husband is basically a human computer. He remembers everything. When we meet new people, he lights up like an exploding star. He’s curious about their background, hometown and their connection to any celebrity-type person.

Months later, he’ll say, “Remember at the Yankees game when we met that guy who was married to the cousin of a friend who knows Ryan Reynolds? I think his name was George.”

A Trip Down Memory Lane

Peri Kinder Life and Laughter

“No.”

“Yeah, you do. He owned a horse farm outside of Albany and loves the color orange.”

“What are you talking about?”

His memory recall is slightly unsettling. He’ll drop info like, “I remember the 1968 World Series when the Detroit Tigers came from behind to beat the Cardinals. They hadn’t won since 1945 and Mickey Lolich was the MVP.”

And then there’s me, having to watch a recap for a TV show I watched the night before. But then I remember random things, like when Sen. Mike Lee advocated for term limits. Hahahaha. The good ol’ days.

I was playing a “Frozen” matching game with my 9 year old granddaughter, trying to remember where the pair of Olafs were hiding. I kept turning over the same two cards, a Sven and an Elsa, convinced I’d finally cracked the code.

My granddaughter found it hilarious watching her doddering old granny lose a game. But there was a time I was the matching

game champ. At least that’s my recollection.

I can still sing Abba’s entire “Arrival” album from 1976 but I’m not quite sure I actually attended a single day of high school. I used to know dozens of phone numbers, but now I couldn’t call my daughters if the world were ending and I had to use a rotary phone.

When it comes to remembering the names of dogs I met at the dog park, I’ve got it down. But their owners’ names? No clue. I can make my mom’s mac and cheese by heart, but need to read the directions on a cake mix four times before I get it right.

It makes me second-guess my memory, like, do you recall when Gov. Spencer Cox took the side of trans kids? Or was that also the

Mandela Effect?

If you’ve ever had a sibling contradict your side of a story, or you can’t remember your eighth-grade science teacher, you’re not alone. Or maybe you had an existential crisis when you realized C-3PO’s lower right leg was silver, not gold.

Memory isn’t just fleeting, it’s fluid. When time blurs the moments we fell flat on our faces, it’s a reminder that our flashbacks are edited highlight reels, usually with a laugh track.

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