South Salt Lake Journal | April 2026

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Water cleared

Natural well disruption saw crews stabilize system Page 8

South Salt Lake

Parks plan unveiled

Decade-long outlook prioritizes nature-based amenities Page 19

New appointments fill vacancies on South Salt Lake City Council

By Linda Petersen | l.petersen@mycityjournals.com

Following the resignation of LeAnne Huff and the vacancy of Paul Sanchez’s seat, the council appointed Joy Glad and Irvin Jones Jr. to represent Districts 1 and 5.

South Salt Lake City has two new faces on its city council: Joy Glad in District 1 and Irvin Jones Jr., District 5.

On Jan. 28, after six years on the council, Councilmember LeAnne Huff announced her resignation effective immediately.

“I have decided it’s time for me to reorder my priorities and focus on other areas of my life,” said Huff at that time.

At that same meeting, Council Chair Sharla Bynum announced that the seat formerly held by Paul Sanchez had been declared vacant. Bynum noted that Sanchez “failed to fulfill his responsibilities as a member of the South Salt Lake City Council since at least August 2025,” triggering a Utah law regarding absences of more than 60 days.

On Feb. 25, councilmembers interviewed seven candidates—five for District 1 (Glad, Aaron Tate, Charles Connelly Jr., Laurie Robionson and Leo Shivers) and two for District 5 (Darlene McDonald and Jones) before voting to approve Glad and Jones.

Mayor Cherie Wood expressed her gratitude for the applicants.

“It’s always impressive to see people wanting to get involved in local government,” she said. “I believe that’s where the best and the biggest lift comes.”

Each candidate was given four minutes to answer four specific questions regarding their motivation, their unique district needs, and their future election plans.

Glad, owner of Dynamic Safety and Environmental LLC, fills the District 1 seat. Holding a master’s degree in occupational health and safety, she emphasized her connection to her neighbors during the interview process.

“My primary motivation for applying for this is that I want to be able to work with the people here,” Glad said. “I understand my community. I’ve talked to them, and I want to be there to advocate for them in what this community needs.”

She added that her background in business helps her understand how to “balance budgets, manage resources efficiently, and make decisions that support both growth and sustainability.”

Jones, who previously served on the council from 2010 to 2015 and owns Antique and Classic Auto Glass, returns to represent District 5. Jones noted that his motivation for returning stemmed from a desire for better representation.

“I have no right to complain about the representation if I’m not willing to do something about it,” he said.

He highlighted his previous experience on the city council, noting, “I’ve learned to be able to negotiate, to be moderate in both my tone and my perspective.”

While he praised the city’s ability to maintain a “small-town feel” and serve the underserved, he pointed to communication

as a primary focus.

“The problem is connecting these people that need to be served with the programs. We do the best we can, but I think we can do better,” he said.

The two were sworn in that evening by

to our Community Sponsors for

City Recorder Ariel Andrus. In the council vote, Glad received four votes for her appointment, while Jones received three. Both will serve out the remainder of the current terms, with Glad’s concluding on Jan. 3, 2028. l

Act FAST, Save a Life: Why Stroke Awareness is Everyone’s Business (No, Seriously, Everyone’s!)

When you hear the word “stroke,” what image comes to mind? For many, it’s an elderly relative, perhaps a grandfather, suddenly incapacitated. But local neurologists are clear: that outdated image is a dangerous myth. Strokes can strike anyone, at any age, and often without warning, making awareness and rapid response absolutely critical.

“The idea that strokes are an ‘old person’s disease’ is incredibly harmful,” says Dr. Mohammad Shoari, a neurologist at Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley, Salt Lake and Mountain Point. “We are seeing strokes in younger adults, even teenagers, with increasing frequency. Lifestyle factors, genetics, and even certain medical conditions can put anyone at risk. This isn’t just about grandpas anymore; it’s about protecting our entire community.”

A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted, either by a clot (ischemic stroke) or a burst blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). When brain cells are deprived of oxygen, they begin to die, leading to potential long-term disability or even death. The good news? Many strokes are treatable, but time is brain.

This is why recognizing the warning signs is

paramount. Healthcare professionals use the acronym F.A.S.T. to help people remember:

SAFFace Drooping: Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the smile uneven?

Arm Weakness: Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

Speech Difficulty: Is speech slurred, are they unable to speak, or are they hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence.

TTime to call 911: If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 911 immediately. Note the time when symptoms first appeared.

“Every minute counts when someone is having a stroke,” emphasizes Dr. Rebecca Reiser, a neurologist at Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley.

“The quicker a patient receives specialized medical attention, the higher their chances of a full recovery. Don’t second-guess or wait for symptoms

Nurture what’s next.

to worsen. Call 911 immediately.”

Our hospitals are equipped with advanced treatments to combat stroke. For ischemic strokes, our team can administer clot-busting medications like TNK (tenecteplase) if the patient arrives within a critical time window. Holy Cross Hospital – Jordan Valley also offers thrombectomy, a procedure where a specialized device is used to physically remove large blood clots from the brain.

“Beyond immediate intervention, our comprehensive stroke centers focus on post-stroke care, including rehabilitation services that are crucial for regaining function and improving quality of life,” adds Dr. Reiser. “Our multidisciplinary teams work tirelessly to help patients navigate their recovery journey.”

From emergency response to rehabilitation, our community has vital resources. But the first line of defense is you. By understanding that stroke doesn’t discriminate by age and by remembering F.A.S.T., you can be the hero who helps save a life – perhaps even your own.

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.

COMMON GROUND

Immigrants are not the enemy

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.

While the 2025 FIFA Peace Prize winner bombs Iran and talks about invading Cuba, the Utah Legislature is fighting its own battles against immigrants and refugees.

Legislators introduced several zero-tolerance immigration bills addressing issues ranging from public education and driving privileges to the right to receive food from local pantries.

If these bills had passed, women, infants and children would have been barred from receiving vaccinations and treatment for communicable diseases. It seems the pro-measles group would also like to welcome back polio, meningitis and maybe a bit of scurvy, just for fun.

I keep saying, “We’re better than this,” but certain legislators (you know who you are) keep making that statement false.

These lawmakers say providing services to immigrants is a drain on taxpayers. There’s just one problem: immigrants pay taxes, too. They pay gas, income, sales and property tax. In fact, immigrants contribute more than $200 million to the state. Why shouldn’t they have access to public schools when they help fund them?

As a kind human, I want my tax dollars to assist those in need. I want families to have food and housing, basic human requirements everyone deserves. I’d much rather have my tax dollars go to immigrants than to pay legal fees fighting Prop 4.

Peri Kinder Common Ground

This year, a bill was introduced to add a 2% tax on international money transfers for those without approved IDs. That might not sound like much, but it could be the difference between sending money for rent or having grandma evicted. Immigrants often wire money to their families in other countries for food, medicine or housing, things our lawmakers obviously take for granted.

Immigrant driving privileges were also on the chopping block. Not only would the bill have revoked those cards, it also required police to contact ICE to turn in an undocumented person involved in a traffic accident.

Utah issues around 35,000 driving privilege cards each year. They allow people to have car insurance, drive to school or work, and navigate the two hazards of Utah roads: terrible drivers and whatever UDOT is tearing up this week.

Undocumented college-bound students were also targeted after a lawmaker introduced legislation to strip them of the right to access lower in-state tuition. Many of these students are on the path to citizenship. Don’t we want an educated populace? My guess is no.

All these initiatives seem to be based on selfishness. If we were really putting Utah first, wouldn’t we ensure that the people who lived here were healthy, fed, educated and safe?

Until recently, Utah leaders lauded the state’s programs designed to help immigrants and refugees learn English, get career training and become productive members of society. Now, the perfect immigrant is someone who doesn’t want education or food and who never sends money to grandpa for a new roof.

Immigrants are our neighbors, coworkers and friends. They deserve the right to dignity and respect. I’d love to see any lawmaker work as hard as the immigrants I know.

Luckily, these bills didn’t pass. But in this political climate, they will probably rise again. Like a case of measles in St. George.

Common Ground: Sometimes, those on the left act like we should open the borders and let the world flow through, while those on the right can’t build walls high enough. What if we all implore Congress to create sustainable immigration policies? Instead of punishing people who want to work and contribute, we need an immigration structure that makes sense. And thanks to the state legislators who voted down the harmful bills presented this year. We can do better. l

From the Publisher:

Thirty-five years ago the City Journals (South Valley Journal) were created with a vision to stay local and bring the community together. Thirteen years ago when I took over as publisher the name changed. but the vision did not. Today that vision is still true; we want the Journals to be hyperlocal and we want to bring the community together.

Over the last few years, as our nation continues to divide between the right and left, it has become harder and harder to feel like we are bringing our community together. If we write on something that is political, one side will be mad at us, and worse of all we may lose them as readers. This does not feel like we are bringing a community together.

This has left our editorial team in a tough position. Do we write on issues and upset our readers, or do we not write on the issues and move forward blind to the issues that are dividing our community.

Our solution: Common Ground. A monthly opinion column that will cover issues that we feel are dividing our communities. Each month one of two writers will present an opinion column, one that leans right and one that leans left.

This month Peri Kinder wrote about state legislation concerning immigration-related topics.

We hope that you have enjoyed the first Common Ground.

— Bryan Scott

SOUTH SALT LAKE TEAM

The South Salt Lake Journal is a monthly publication distributed directly to residents via the USPS as well as locations throughout South Salt Lake. 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.

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Aesthetic

Copper Rock offers great golf and vacation opportunities

Arriving at Copper Rock, you might be torn as to what to do first. There’s the world-class golf course, voted best in Southern Utah for five straight years, with its lush fairways and greens weaving through the stunning red rocks.

There’s the beauty of the Hurricane Valley, with trails beckoning hikers or nature lovers anxious to watch a sunrise or sunset. And there’s the amazing resort itself, with a clubhouse grill, pools, golf pro shop and close proximity to Zion National Park.

With more than 300 days of sunshine each year, it’s become one of Southern Utah’s most desirable addresses for golfers and vacationers and part of a master-planned development that has redefined luxury living in the region.

In addition to amazing real estate options, Copper Rock is a source for luxury vacation rentals that are perfect for families or large groups offering short-term rentals, but also aim to build long-term relationships with those we serve by maintaining constant support before, during and after your stay. And in May, we will once again host the LPGA Epson Tour Copper Rock Championship, welcoming top rising stars in women’s professional golf. That event will be held May 14-16. It fills a hope that developers dreamt about—that Copper Rock would be more than just a golf course—it would be a destination.

“When we broke ground on Copper Rock nearly two decades ago, we carried with us a bold vision: to build a worldclass golf course in Southern Utah—a course that could not only showcase the beauty of our desert landscape but also stand proudly alongside some of the best in the country,” said Darcy Horman, director of operations at Copper Rock. “We imagined a destination for connection and shared experiences for our community and guests from around the world.”

Opened in 2020, Copper Rock has already established itself as a premier golf and resort community. What was once a vast expanse of farmland has now been thoughtfully transformed into a vibrant, 1,000-acre resort community centered around that award-winning 18-hole championship course. The 7,227-yard layout winds across natural sand dunes and native sagebrush, offering a challenging and exhilarating round of golf. The design integrates seamlessly with the rugged Copper Rock, and the surrounding area seals the deal.

“Everything about this course from start to finish was excellent,” one golfer wrote. “Service was great, tee box and fairway conditions were excellent, pure greens, interesting hole layouts with some challenging but fun blind shots and water hazards here and there, and landscape views that can’t be beat. I’ve played multiple top rated golf courses in Southern Utah and this one was my favorite by a long shot.”

Another wrote, “I enjoyed everything about the day. Pro shop staff were very helpful and worked with our threesome to alleviate a previous scheduling snafu. We were escorted to the practice facility and I have to say the practice facility was top

notch…putting green, chipping green and an excellent driving range. The course itself was in excellent condition. All aspects of course management were superior. The views on the course were just amazing.”

Just minutes from downtown Hurricane and less than 30 minutes from St. George, residents enjoy quick access to shopping, dining and healthcare, as well as Southern Utah’s endless outdoor recreation options. Those include boating and fishing at Sand Hollow Reservoir and mountain biking on the Gooseberry Mesa trails that are all within easy reach. And once you’ve returned to Copper Rock, you can enjoy golf lessons, a grill and pro shop, an online store and private spas.

“It’s a place where our community can come together,” Horman said. “A place that continues to grow and give back while showcasing the unique beauty and spirit of Southern Utah to the world.”

Freelance writer Michael Zuccarello who specializes in Utah sports businesses recalled his visit to the resort in an article published before last year’s Epson event.

“Evening falls on the 11th fairway at Copper Rock Golf Course, and the summer heat is making its peace with a soft evening breeze. Bullfrogs croak in the distance. The fading sunlight beams golden off the sandstone cliffs, backlighting the residences lining the right side of the fairway, while just left of the 11th green, the sun is about to plunge below the Pine Valley Mountains.

“This is what I see as I chip in my flip flops, trying to hold a quick green that demands a pre-meditated landing spot and the kind of precision execution that can be challenging for this 15-handicapper. It’s after 9 p.m. now, and my wife, “Callaway,” and I have a 7:20 a.m. tee time, but I want to finish with three close ones before I walk back through the neighborhood to the gleaming glass house on Torrey Pines Road, a place barely three years old with four bedrooms, five bathrooms, a pool table, and a private pool and spa.”

He said walking past modern, angular homes with huge glass windows, each home seemed to appeal to different groups for their next stay-and-play vacation.

“One home has a water slide, another a bowling alley, and still others have putting greens and basketball courts,” he wrote. “Every last one of them has a private pool. Copper Rock, truth be told, is as much a vision today as it is a living golf community.”

He said Copper Rock is “the place you and your golf friends come to play a course the pros play, with tee boxes as flat and smooth as pool tables, pristine fairways that reward accurate drives with generous rolls, and greens that roll true and fast. I have it on good authority that you can play your way out of the desert sand and sagebrush that line the fairways, just punishment indeed but not round-killing.”

“We’re really excited that the locals once again voted Copper Rock the best golf course in Southern Utah,” said Penny

James-Garcia, Copper Rock’s event coordinator. “Copper Rock was built to be a championship course, and golfers find it both highly challenging and highly playable.”

As Copper Rock continues to grow and evolve, the vision for the community includes expanded resort offerings, walking trails and enhanced hospitality experiences—all designed to elevate the lifestyle of every resident and guest. Whether you’re drawn by the championship golf, the stunning views, or the potential of owning in one of Utah’s most exciting new communities, Copper Rock is more than a place to live—it’s a place to thrive.

“We’re certainly excited about all our future amenities and developments,” Horman said, “but we understand the importance of realistic expectations. We’re lasered in on what makes Copper Rock special. At this moment, it’s a chance to stay in a beautifully equipped modern home and play at a premier championship golf course.”

Copper Rock is located at 1567 West Copper Rock Parkway in Hurricane, Utah. For tee times, vacation rentals, homesites, and stay and plays, visit copperrock.com. For more information on the Epson Tour stop in Southern Utah including tickets, go to copperrockchampionship.com. l

Water cleared following natural well disruption

A well disruption sent sediment into the water supply. City crews quickly stabilized the system and confirmed through testing that the drinking water is safe.

By Linda Petersen l.petersen@mycityjournals.com

SomeSouth Salt Lake residents in the area between 2700 South and 3300 South from State Street to 300 East were alarmed to find the water flowing from their taps was discolored on Feb. 8.

City water crews quickly responded and discovered that the west well located at 265 W. 2975 South had experienced what city communications described as a “natural disruption” which caused sediment to stir and enter the water distribution system for about an hour that day. Crews then flushed the system to remove the sediment.

City engineers say the natural disruption at the well was caused by a sudden shift in the underground aquifer. This typically refers to one of two things: aquifer slumping, which is a minor, localized shift in the sand or gravel layers surrounding the well screen where even a small shift deep underground can shake loose years of settled minerals like iron and manganese and fine silt, which then gets sucked into the pump;

or a pressure change, where a rapid change in the water table level or a momentary surge in the aquifer’s flow can “stir the pot” at the bottom of the well.

The affected area is what is known as the “West Pressure Zone,” which primarily covers the residential and commercial areas between 2100 South and 3300 South, extending from the city’s western boundary (near the Jordan River/I-15) toward 300 East.

This disruption sent a significant slug of sediment through the main transmission lines, according to city alerts. As the sediment traveled through the grid, it became most heavily concentrated in the area between 2700 South and 3300 South from State Street to 300 East—an area which engineers describe as a low-velocity or dead-end portion of the grid. Because this area sits toward the edge of the South Salt Lake service boundary, where it meets the Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District, the water naturally moves more slowly, the water records said.

This lack of high-speed flow allowed the stirred-up silt and minerals to settle and concentrate within residential taps rather than being quickly swept through the larger system.

Reports of the problem were first shared on the evening of Feb. 8 via official city social media accounts on Facebook and X, followed by a detailed “News Flash” on the city’s website the next morning.

On Feb. 9, water teams collected several samples for laboratory analysis to ensure no harmful contaminants had entered the system during the disruption. By the following day, the city reported that all lab results had returned negative for unhealthy contaminants. Despite the water’s murky appearance, throughout the event the water remained safe to drink, as the sediment consisted of nontoxic earth minerals, city communications said.

Residents who continued to see lingering particles or experience lower water pressure were advised to run their cold water taps for approximately 20 minutes to

clear their internal plumbing. Additionally, city communications advised them to unscrew and clean the small screens, or aerators, on the tips of kitchen and bathroom faucets, as these often trap the fine silt and minerals released during the hour-long disruption.

“We have some old water pipes, like all cities our age with older infrastructure,” city spokesman Joseph Danes said. “We invest money every year to replace water pipe. It is and will always be an ongoing focus—upgrading and maintaining our infrastructure.” l

Nibley Park teacher honored in Select Health Brain Body Boost Awards

Recipients are given a $1,000 award for classroom supplies, fitness equipment and other tools that promote student health.

By Lizzie Walje l.walje@mycityjournals.com

TenUtah educators, including one Nibley Park teacher, were recently named recipients of Select Health’s Brain Body Boost Awards. The awards recognize educators who are making a difference in the lives of students by helping them work toward building healthy habits, leading to the cultivation of long-term well-being.

The recognized educators, who teach a grade level between K-6, are awarded for their exceptional integration of physical, mental and emotional wellness into everyday learning. Each recipient is given a $1,000 award for classroom supplies, fitness equipment and other tools that promote student health.

“Educators play a vital role in shaping lifelong wellness habits,” said Kimberly Ruiz, Select Health community relations coordinator. “The Brain Body Boost Awards celebrate teachers who are helping students build healthy routines early — supporting

not just academic success, but long-term healthy habits.”

Developing healthy habits early in life is crucial for establishing long-term health and wellness, and students who learn to care for their physical, mental and emotional health at a young age tend to have better health outcomes in adulthood. Through their Brain Body Boost Awards, Select Health honors educators that encourage their students to set personal health goals, practice mindfulness, and develop an understanding of how healthy choices often informs overall quality of life.

Teachers are nominated by peers, administrators, parents of students or community mem-

bers. Nominees are then selected based on their demonstrated student impact, creative approach when teaching wellness, and dedication to promoting health education in the classroom. A review committee evaluates the nominated educators, ultimately selecting 10 recipients from across the state.

One of this year’s recipients was Nibley Park’s Seth Orme. As a physical education teacher, Orme’s work greatly aids in helping students foster a sense of health and well-being. Orme’s contribution comes at a critical time, as physical education coursework requirements have been rapidly phasing out of many institutions from kindergarten to university. A study

from Oregon State University’s College of Health revealed that while 97% of sixth-grade students are enrolled in some sort of physical education class, by 12th grade that number decreases to 43%.

The same Oregon State study stated that only 21% of students (ages 6-17) in the United States are meeting the recommended 60 minutes of physical daily activity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that participating in 60 minutes of daily physical activity is key for promoting long-term cardiovascular function, building muscular health and maintaining a healthy weight.

The CDC also states that “some benefits of physical activity for brain health happen right after a session of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Benefits include improved thinking or cognition for children 6 to 13 and reduced short-term feelings of anxiety for adults. Regular physical activity can help keep your thinking, learning and judgment skills sharp as you age. It can also reduce your risk of depression and anxiety and help you sleep better.”

Overall, it’s educators like Orme who are making a difference in the lives of our youngest citizens, helping them understand that when it comes to living a healthy lifestyle, it’s important to integrate all aspects of overall well-being which includes physical, emotional and mental.l

Middle schoolers learn photography, MLK’s community principles with SLCC professors

Their artwork was displayed in the Beloved Community exhibition in the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Art Gallery through the month of March.

By Cassie Goff c.goff@mycityjournals.com

Photography created by local middle school students is on display at Salt Lake Community College’s South City campus. The images showcase what a “Beloved Community” means to the sixth-grade photographers from Whittier Elementary and seventh- and eighth-grade photographers from Glendale Middle School.

The ongoing Beloved Community Project exhibit is part of an annual collaboration between SLCC and K-12 schools (created in 2015). The program aims to connect faculty and students through in-class discussions and presentations to explore notions of community, connection and hope. And the SLCC faculty members bring cameras for the K-12 students to create their artwork with.

“This vision comes to life through the perspectives of local elementary and middle school students in SLCC’s annual Beloved Community Photography Project and exhibit,” said Josh Elstein, director for SLCC’s Center of Arts and Media.

This year, faculty from SLCC’s School of Arts, specializing in photography and communication, visited the

elementary and middle school students to help them explore concepts from Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision of a beloved community.

Students navigated how to visually express what cooperation, unity and connection means in their own life.

The opening reception was held Feb. 27 with live musical performances from SLCC Chamber Singers.

The Beloved Community Photography Project will be on display until April 3 at SLCC’s South City campus in the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Art Gallery (1575 S. State Street).

The SLCC School of Arts is looking for sponsorships to continue expanding the annual work of the Beloved Community project. Faculty hope to continue increasing the number of participating schools so they can work with more students across a wider range of grades, populations and socioeconomic backgrounds. Funding from sponsorships is intended to go toward project equipment and operational needs.

A corresponding film project, in collaboration with the nonprofit Brolly Arts, explores local voices sharing historic and contemporary viewpoints in connection to Martin Luther King Jr.’s concepts of social equity.

The film focuses on Martin Luther King Jr.’s ideas of possibilities to create civil, equitable and harmonious communities through nonviolent social change. Through addressing global issues with local relevance, the filmmakers ask viewers to consider what each individual can do to support social change. The 26-min video is available through their

website at brollyarts.org/programming/beloved-community-project/.

To learn more about The Beloved Community projects including the photography exhibit and Brolly Arts film project, visit: www.slcc.edu/beloved/exhibits. l

Senior Johana Pilcova wins Cottonwood’s first girls wrestling medal at state championship

Pilcova finished fifth at Utah Valley University, ending her final season at Cottonwood with a 26-8 record.

By Brian Shaw b.shaw@mycityjournals.com

Forfour years, the Cottonwood Colts girls wrestling program has been gaining footing in Class 4A.

On Feb. 14, it officially arrived.

Cottonwood senior Johana Pilcova finished in fifth place at the 4A state girls wrestling championships, going home with a medal.

It was the first girls wrestling medal won at state at Cottonwood. Pilcova captured hers after advancing in the first round to Friday’s quarterfinals, where she lost by fall to Mountain Crest’s Mackenzi Saunders, and yet even that took her opponent four minutes and 36 seconds to complete.

That was the story all season for girls high school wrestlers when they had to lock arms with Pilcova, who wrapped up her final year finishing with a 26-8 record. Pilcova also came in second at 4A Divisionals, the qualifying meet for the state championships. (Her Cottonwood teammate Leila Rascom finished in seventh place at 4A Divisionals.)

Head coach Isaac Halliday is relatively new to coaching high school wrestling. As a matter of fact, the Cottonwood coach got the top job by default—the other head coach left town. From there, the late Athletic Director Greg Southwick offered the position, and Halliday accepted it.

“I became a coach when a friend, whom I introduced to wrestling in middle school, called me in 2018 and told

me he was offered the head coach position at Cottonwood High School and needed an assistant,” Halliday said. “I was recovering from a shoulder surgery at the time and wasn’t working, so I agreed and now I’m the head coach after he moved to Ohio. Wrestling has always been a passion of mine, and I always wanted to coach. This was a great opportunity to get started.”

From the looks of it, Halliday and his staff have been doing a great job preparing this Colts girls wrestling squad. Only one other wrestler in Class 4A at 145 pounds had a better record this year than Pilcova, who also won a first-place medal at the Bruin Tournament at Mountain View during the regular season and second place at Battle of the Mine at Tintic High School in Eureka.

Pilcova’s efforts this season at state certainly marked a milestone for Cottonwood’s relatively new girls wrestling program; Klasina Duckworth came awfully close to one last year, finishing seventh at those state championships.

Along with Duckworth at last year’s Divisionals, Christina Paluzzi and Alexandra Wold also finished in the top eight—the first time that three Colts girls wrestlers did so at a state qualifier. Paluzzi would go on to sign to wrestle at Alfred State College in New York, after the 2024-25 school year.

This all preceded the success that the Cottonwood boys wrestlers had this year—beginning with what they achieved at 4A Divisionals.

Moving down the boys weight classes, Jaxton Danner finished in sixth place at 150 pounds, D’Andre Salazar was fourth at 175 pounds and Jacob Stephens, eighth. That qualified all three Cottonwood boys for the 4A state champion-

ships at UVU based on how they fared at Divisionals.

Together, Danner, Salazar and Stephens won first-place medals at the Battle of the Mine during the regular season to go with the medals they won at Divisionals—keepsakes they’ll have along with all the moments when their wrestling days are just memories.

Also, Simon Bowles and Nilton Deleme went home with third place medals at that Battle of the Mine meet and also went undefeated at 5-0 during the Mountain View Bruin Tournament. l

City considers 100% renewable energy partnership

The potential future partnership would be with the Utah Renewable Communities program.

By Linda Petersen l.petersen@mycityjournals.com

OnFeb. 25, representatives from Utah Renewable Communities gave city officials an update on the program hoping to encourage South Salt Lake to jump on board in the future.

The URC program is a coalition of 19 municipalities working with Rocky Mountain Power to provide 100% net renewable energy to their residents. These cities are currently “vested” and represent about 25% of Rocky Mountain Power’s Utah sales, with the program currently in the final stages of approval by the Public Service Commission. If approved, the initiative will allow participating cities to match 100% of their community’s annual electricity consumption with new renewable energy projects built specifically for Utah.

“The heart of the program is to drive the development of new clean energy resources at scale in Utah,” said Glade Sowards, Salt Lake City senior energy and

climate program manager.

Sowards and Salt Lake City Councilmember and URC Chair Dan Dugan presented the update to the South Salt Lake City Council to illustrate the program’s potential impact.

The program operates on an “opt-out” basis, meaning residents are automatically enrolled in a clean energy rate—projected at a $3-$4 monthly premium for average households—unless they choose to leave. In addition, participating communities make financial contributions to the agency’s budget, calculated in proportion to their population and total energy usage.

The program includes protections for low-income residents, such as bill credits and waived exit fees, Sowards said.

Beyond the environmental benefits, the program offers long-term price stability by insulating participating cities from the volatility of traditional fossil fuel markets, Sowards said. By investing in regional infrastructure, these municipalities aim to transform the local energy landscape, creating a sustainable model that balances fiscal responsibility with a commitment to long-term climate goals, he added.

Because the program is in a formal regulatory review phase with the Public Service Commission, the window for new cities to

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› Care for your heart: We diagnose and manage heart conditions including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart attacks, and more

› Echocardiograms: A safe, painless test that shows how your heart is working

› Stress testing: See how your heart performs when it’s working hard

› Heart Rhythm Monitoring: Find and treat problems with your heart’s electrical system

Life can change in a heartbeat. We want to help you keep it going.

join is currently closed. Approval requires precise calculations regarding costs and customer participation and adding a new city now would necessitate restarting the legal process. Still, the two expressed hope that South Salt Lake would become part of the program in the future.

While South Salt Lake did not join during the URC when initially invited in 2019, city leaders expressed renewed interest in a future expansion of participating cities.

“And you know, back in 2019, there

was a lot of uncertainty, so we did not jump on this,” said Council Chair Sharla Bynum.

Following the presentation, Councilmember Ray DeWolfe expressed interest, asking how the city could join URC in the future.

Both Dugan and Sowards expressed support for that possibility.

“Ultimately, I think our goal is to expand the program,” Dugan said. “We just have some issues to think through first... keep in contact with us.”l

Scan the QR code for more information appointment at one of five locations.

Locations

Cardiology Clinic at Intermountain Medical Center

5169 South Cottonwood Street, Ste. 520 Murray, Utah 84107

Cardiology Clinic at LDS Hospital 8th Avenue C Street, 6th Floor Salt Lake City, Utah 84103

Cardiology Clinic at Alta View Hospital

9450 South 1300 East, 4th Floor Sandy, Utah 84094

Cardiology Clinic at Riverton Hospital

3723 West 12600 South, Ste. 160A Riverton, Utah 84065

Cardiology Clinic at Salt Lake Clinic

389 South 900 East, 3rd Floor Salt Lake City, Utah 84102

ON THE MOVE

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

City Offices

Monday - Friday • 8 am to 5 pm 801-483-6000

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

Public Meetings

For more info: www.sslc.gov CITY COUNCIL

Wednesdays, April 15 & 19, 7 pm PLANNING COMMISSION

Thursdays, April 2 & 16, 7 pm

CIVILIAN REVIEW BOARD Monday, April 6, 6:30 pm COMMUNITY CONNECT

Wednesday, April 15, 9 am

Water Conservation: Small Steps, Big Benefits

Rising temperatures make April the perfect time to evaluate how we use our most precious resource –water. As we prepare our yards and gardens for the warmer months, I want to encourage everyone to join our collective effort to conserve water and ensure a sustainable future for our community.

Utah remains one of the driest states in the nation, and this year’s mild winter and low snowpack make water conservation critical. Managing our water isn’t a task for the city alone: it’s a partnership. To support your efforts at home, South Salt Lake provides a robust toolkit of resources designed to help you reduce your monthly utility bills, while maintaining a beautiful, sustainable landscape. Taking small steps can save lots of water, like waiting until Mother’s Day to water, converting non-function turf to waterwise landscape, following the state watering guide and prioritizing watering trees,

switching your overhead spray heads to low-water rotator heads, and not watering during daytime hours.

South Salt Lake has too much news for one newsletter. Sign up for monthly e-newsletters to get the full scoop on the topics that you care about most. Visit sslc.gov or scan the QR code.

Inside the home, it is vital to fix leaks promptly, as a single leaky faucet or running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons a month. Our EyeOnWater app can help customers track water usage, monitor consumption, and detect potential leaks. Rebates are available at Slow the Flow to help residents replace old toilets, convert to an irrigation smart controller, and turn grass into waterwise landscape with the landscape incentive program. Learn more at slowtheflow.org.

By working together, we can protect our community’s water during this upcoming summer. Your dedication to these small changes today ensures that South Salt Lake remains a vibrant, resilient place for our children and grandchildren to call home. Let’s lead the way in showing how a mindful community can make a lasting impact on Utah’s future.

Conserving water is more important than ever. That means that special care is needed when it comes to watering outdoor landscapes. Follow these steps to ensure good and effective watering habits::

1. Wait to water grass until Mother’s Day. There is more water in the soil than you realize. Waiting to water helps roots to grow deeper and stronger.

2. Prioritize watering trees and shrubs over grass.

3. Follow the Utah Division of Water Resources Weekly Lawn Watering Guides, available at: conservewater.utah.gov.

A robust urban forest helps to protect water and air quality and reduces the urban heat island effect in our community. In an effort to grow our urban forest, South Salt Lake is giving away free trees that residents can plant in their yard. Visit sslc.gov to learn more and sign up for a free tree!

Mural Fest 2026 will be bigger and better than ever! This year’s artist lineup brings together muralists from as far away as Canada and UK along with big names in the national and local scenes. While each artist brings an individual story and style to the table, they all hold a shared value in the community-building power of public art. Each artist is looking forward to contributing to South Salt Lake’s open air gallery and getting to know the neighborhood where their work will live on.

Visit themuralfest.com to learn more about each artist, and mark your calendar for May 9 to witness the unveiling of their incredible work at Mural Fest!

Utah Tax Help Services at the South Salt Lake Co-Op

Utah Tax Help Services provides free financial services to low-income and Englishas-a-second-language families and individuals throughout Utah. Through a new partnership with the South Salt Lake Co-Op, they will be holding regular office hours on-site every Tuesday and Thursday. For appointments and information, call 801-2108001 or visit sslcoop.org.

CERT: Join the Team!

The next SSL CERT training session begins on April 9. Scan the QR code to learn more and sign up!

HELP KEEP OUR ROADS SAFE HELP KEEP OUR ROADS SAFE

Obey the Posted Limits

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

Speed limits aren’t suggestions; they are the maximum safe speed for that road. Always adjust your speed based on conditions such as weather, traffic, and visibility.

Focus on the Road

Avoid distracted driving. Put your phone away, don’t eat or groom while driving. Distraction impairs your ability to react, especially at higher speeds.

Be a Good Neighbor

Treat residential streets with extra caution. Many of these areas have children playing, pets, and higher pedestrian traffic.

Speeding remains one of the most common and dangerous traffic issues in South Salt Lake. To help keep our treets safe, we encourage everyone to adopt the following habits: sslc.gov

EDUCATION SECTION

A publication covering local education around the Salt Lake Valley

Teaching more than music

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

National Federation of High Schools honors RaNae Dalgleish for four decades of shaping students hearts through harmonies.

When RaNae Dalgleish was 4 years old, her mother placed a violin in her small hands the last one her father had worked on before he died.

“This is yours,” her mother told her. Dalgleish remembers looking at it and saying, “This is the most wonderful thing I’ve ever seen in my life.”

In that moment, she knew music would always be part of her life.

Dalgleish’s father had been a violin maker, trained by German luthier Peter Prier, who first worked under her grandfather, a longtime band teacher in Provo who also opened Pearce Music Company.

Music was part of her upbringing. Her mother would accompany Dalgleish on piano during her early violin recitals and her grandfather would play for her,

symphonies and string quartets on his downstairs stereo system for hours.

“He introduced me to the world of classical music,” she said. “He was so knowledgeable and he had such a passion for it.”

Dalgleish’s introduction to music became a lifetime passion which she has shared with students for four decades. Recently, the National Federation of High Schools named Dalgleish as region seven’s Performing Arts Educator Award recipient of the year for her 40 years of dedication to music education.

The nomination itself came as a surprise. Former Canyons School District performing arts specialist Sheree Jorgensen submitted her name in November 2025 and it was in early February that Dalgleish learned she won the award, which as of press deadline, was yet to be presented to her.

“I was excited, humbled, honored and surprised,” she said. “I appreciate Sheree for noticing my work through the

years and thinking about nominating me for this award. It means a lot.”

After earning her degree in instrumental music education on full scholarship at the University of Utah, Dalgleish’s career began teaching elementary students string instruments. She then progressed to teach high school choir and eventually, nearly two decades at Hillcrest High directing orchestras and choirs.

Dalgleish directs highly esteemed ensembles, mentors teachers and organizes districtwide events. She is the musical director for many of Hillcrest’s award-winning musicals and has served on the Utah Music Educators Association. She has performed with the Utah Tabernacle Choir, the Salt Lake Symphony, the Salt Lake Vocal Artists and Salt Lake Symphonic Choir.

For Dalgleish, the heart of teaching was shaped early in her career. During her first year teaching at her alma mater, Olympus High, her student choir president was killed when, as a pedestrian, he was struck by a car.

“I learned the lesson that I needed to

love my kids more than I need to love music,” Dalgleish said. “They needed love and they needed music.”

That experience changed her priorities, which still guides her today. Festivals and ratings matter less than connection.

“I want them to understand music as a way to touch hearts that words can’t,” Dalgleish said. “Music is a service that you can help people to heal and to go through hard times. It helps to brighten spirits, to lift hearts that are heavy.”

She chooses repertoire with care, tailoring pieces to the students in her classes. Through COVID, through loss of family and through other circumstances, she chooses music with a message for her students to embrace and share.

“Every year, I need to know my students so I can make music meaningful for them,” Dalgleish said.

One beloved tradition is ending concerts with “Peace be with You,” an arrangement passed down through Hillcrest High choir directors Leo Dean to Brian Bentley and to Dalgleish. Alumni return to sing it in the final concert of each year, filling the stage alongside current students, creating a community through music and love she has helped build.

Music has given Dalgleish many opportunities beyond the school stage. From her first school bus trip to Vancouver, B.C. as a high school senior to performances across Europe and Asia, she has seen how music connects people. She shares that experience with her students, giving them opportunities to tour across the country, including singing in Nashville this spring. Through it all, Dalgleish still keeps that little girl’s sense of awe. The violin was her first love. Teaching became her life’s work. And whether conducting a choir or repairing a student’s bow, she continues to share the gift first placed in her hands, imparting music is an act of love.

“I love giving opportunity to my students and hearing them create music that speaks to the heart,” Dalgleish said.

Bell-to-bell school cell phone ban passes in Utah legislature

By Lizzie Walje | l.walje@mycityjournals.com

SB 69 will ban cell phone use during school hours including lunch and in-between classes.

Utah public schools will more than likely enforce a bell-to-bell cell phone ban when students return to class at the end of this coming summer. The bill in question, Senate Bill 69, which calls for a complete cell phone ban during school hours, most recently passed the vote in the Utah legislature. SB 69 now goes to Gov. Spencer J. Cox, who will ultimately decide if it is to become law. For years now, Cox has expressed his desire to ban the usage of cell phones in schools. Cox was also an early vocal supporter of SB 69, meaning it’s almost all but guaranteed that he will sign off on the bill once it crosses his desk.

SB 69, sponsored by Sen. Lincoln Fillmore (R-South Jordan) further expands upon a 2025 bill, Senate Bill 178, that was eventually signed into law. SB 178 banned the usage of cell phones during school hours, however, it did have one caveat; students could still use phones during downtime like in-between classes or during lunch. SB 69 takes an even firmer stance, completely forbidding the usage of cell phones during the school day, including times when students are not in the classroom.

While the bill does require all public schools to implement the bell-to-bell ban, how schools choose to enforce the ban, will be determined by their Local Education Agency (LEA). LEAs will be given the freedom to establish their own guiding parameters and policy, so long as they uphold the requirements laid out in SB 69. Should an LEA choose not to set their own policy, devices will not be permitted from bell-to-bell by default.

When SB 69 was first introduced, those who opposed it, largely residents and parents, expressed concerns over children not having access to their phones

during emergency situations. However, the bill does allow for exceptions where students will be permitted to use their phones during threats or emergencies, to access the SafeUT crisis line, as part of accommodations outlined in a student’s IEP or Section 504 plan, or for medical necessity.

“Utah leads by putting students first, and this is the next step,” said Emily Bell McCormick, president of The Policy Project, a Utah nonprofit organization that defines itself as a “nonpartisan organization that acts as a policy accelerator to do real good for real people.” McCormick continued, “Bell-to-bell policies aren’t about restriction—they’re about creating learning environments built for focus, connection and success. We see calmer classrooms, stronger engagement and more meaningful learning when distractions are limited.”

To that point, a handful of Utah schools have already implemented their own versions of a bell-to-bell ban, among them, Granite School District’s Granger High School. A change that school officials report has yielded overwhelmingly positive outcomes. Luke Allen, the Associate Director of Communications for Granite School District, reported that student fights at Granger have decreased by 50% following their cell phone ban. He also mentioned that failure rates have dramatically improved.

“The first year of that policy at Granger High School, if you compare the student failure rate to the four years leading up to that, [Granger] had their lowest rates of those five years.” Allen said. “So, they had their lowest failure rates in five years, the first year they had that policy.”

Snow Canyon Middle School in St. George is another institution that enforced a ban on devices, a policy that they began enforcing at the beginning of the 2024-25 academic school year. While staff and teachers initially worried

Senate Bill 69, which bans the usage of cellphones completely during school hours, has passed in the Utah legislature and was facing a final decision from Gov. Spencer J. Cox. (Pew Research Center)

their students would push back strongly on such a ban, they were pleasantly surprised at the outcome.

“The students reacted far more willingly than we ever anticipated. There was very, very little parent resistance. We feel that creating a space where students are no longer distracted is one of the greatest gifts we have given them. We just wish we had done it years earlier,” said a staff member at Snow Canyon.

Cell phone bans are starting to take root at the national level. According to several national news outlets, as of early 2026, 26 states have now imposed complete bell-to-bell cell phone bans in K-12 schools. Among them are Florida, Alabama, Georgia, New York and Virginia. Additionally, it’s reported that 25 states have put in place some level of cell phone restrictions or guidelines to be observed during school hours.

As more schools report successful outcomes from outright cell phone bans,

it is anticipated that other states will soon follow suit and put in effect their own bellto-bell bans. If you’re wondering how these bans are managing to be enforced during school hours, one company in particular has found a way to make such a prospect easily streamlined — Yondr pouches.

Yondr pouches are not the only magnetic locking cell phone pouch on the market, however, they’ve certainly emerged as the most widespread and well-known option available. As a matter of fact, Granger is among the schools currently utilizing Yondr’s technology. Many educators, administrators and staff like Yondr pouches, because they restrict students from using their cell phones, but still allow for the phone to remain on the student’s person.

As previously mentioned, Yondr pouches are controlled by magnetic locking technology. At the end of the school day hours, students can unlock their phones at various locking bases, which are usually strategically placed at exit points throughout the school. While Yondr pouches do prevent the usage of phones during school hours, they don’t block signals, meaning cell phones can still be used in case of emergency.

Yondr pouches, while incredibly effective, are still considered relatively expensive. This has caused concerns for certain districts and schools in Utah who feel they’re already being stretched thin financially due to budget cuts and insufficient funding. In response to this concern, Sen. Fillmore explained that schools will not need to use Yondr patches specifically, so long as their rules, whatever they are, reflect and enforce the totality of the bellto-bell ban.

Now that the Utah general legislative session has concluded, and SB 29 has cleared Utah’s legislation, per Utah state law, Gov. Cox has 20 days to decide on the bill. If after those 20 days Cox has still not signed or vetoed the bill, it will, by default, automatically become law.

Cottonwood baseball heads back to the field with five seniors leading the charge

In year two under head coach Travis Steed, the Colts look to put tragedy behind them when they take to the field.

By Brian Shaw b.shaw@mycityjournals.com

Forthis Cottonwood Colts baseball team, it has already been a trying year.

First, coaches and players alike on the Colts lost a friend that they played club ball with and against in Jordan High freshman Kian Hamilton, who was slain in the summer of 2024. Then, reality hit even closer to home when the longtime and recently retired Cottonwood Athletic Director Greg Southwick passed away in January.

Southwick was an ardent supporter of Cottonwood baseball, and he didn’t miss many of the Colts’ home and away games if he could help it. He was also the primary reason that head coach Travis Steed is now in charge of this Colts program and why the school honored Hamilton by hosting a tournament in his memory at Cottonwood’s baseball field.

That happened in August, and so for this loaded roster led by five seniors, these Colts have already had a bit of a head start having played a handful of games at the outset of the new school year against other area schools. The memorial tournament also helped raise proceeds for a foundation that Hamilton’s family had set up in his name.

The other person responsible for making that tournament go? Steed himself.

It must be said that Southwick told City Journals at the time of Steed’s hiring that it took a few years of convincing to get the new Cottonwood coach and longtime teacher at the school

It’s all in the

to accept in 2024—after the previous coach had stepped down. Steed accepted, and he, along with assistants Gil Ruiz and Rafael Mavarez, led Cottonwood to a 15-10 record in his first year.

In a way, it was fitting that one of Southwick’s final acts at Cottonwood was to assist a fallen student-athlete, and to have Steed—one of Southwick’s final coaching hires in his time here—lend a big hand in that.

Coach Steed now also works under a new athletic director in James MacIntyre, but the aim is the same as the reason Southwick hired Steed—get Cottonwood baseball back to prominence in a Class 4A Region 10 that is fraught with tough competition. The Colts added to their staff as well, hiring nine-year Major League Baseball vet George Sherrill as a pitching coach during the offseason.

Last year, the Colts finished a respectable 9-6 in a region filled with schools such as Park City, who won the title with a 14-1 record, and a Juan Diego Catholic team that finished one game ahead of Cottonwood. This year, however, the UHSAA has added four other schools to Class 4A Region 10 in this latest round of realignment: Murray, East, Highland and Judge Memorial Catholic.

Park City is the favorite to win once again, followed by Juan Diego and Murray, according to local media. But, the Colts are tabbed by to finish fourth, right in the middle of the pack.

That might be just about right for a Colts team returning 11 rotation players including seniors Zeland Carpepnter, Milo Crayk (5-2 as a pitcher in nine appearances, 42 strikeouts), Zane Wayman (4-2, eight games, 26 K), Porter Stonebreaker (.444 batting average) and Kingston Griffin who hit 12 RBI last year. It’s enough experience for the Colts to go out there and surprise some teams.

Cottonwood also has a handful of underclassmen that

are versatile at the plate and have shown they have trusty gloves. Junior Joaquin Reymus hit .265 with 12 RBI in 49 plate appearances last season, and his classmate Noble Weaver had four stolen bases to go with a .970 fielding percentage in 2024-25. Other players returning to the Colts that had their moments include juniors MJ Diemoz, Peyton Ruiz, Peyson Summers and Quinn Mendenhall. Sophomore Zachary Kitt has cracked the varsity starting lineup—to do so on this junior-and-senior laden team.

One difference between last year and this, is that Cottonwood will not be traveling to the southern end of the state to play preseason games. The Colts will only go as far as Uintah County to play a weekend game, and will also have eight other preseason games home and away along the Wasatch Front before hitting the field for their Region 10 opener at Highland, March 24. l

family for Cottonwood Colts boys swimmer Soren Alonso

The junior comes from a long line of Colts swim greats and showed as much, earning silver in the boys 50 free at state.

By Brian Shaw b.shaw@mycityjournals.com

For this Cottonwood Colts baseball team, it has already been a trying year.

First, coaches and players alike on the Colts lost a friend that they played club ball with and against in Jordan High freshman Kian Hamilton, who was slain in the summer of 2024. Then, reality hit even closer to home when the longtime and recently retired Cottonwood Athletic Director Greg Southwick passed away in January.

Southwick was an ardent supporter of Cottonwood baseball, and he didn’t miss many of the Colts’ home and away games if he could help it. He was also the primary reason that head coach Travis Steed is now in charge of this Colts program and why the school honored Hamilton by hosting a tournament in his memory at Cottonwood’s baseball field.

That happened in August, and so for this loaded roster led by five seniors, these Colts have already had a bit of a head start having played a handful of games at the outset of the

new school year against other area schools. The memorial tournament also helped raise proceeds for a foundation that Hamilton’s family had set up in his name.

The other person responsible for making that tournament go? Steed himself.

It must be said that Southwick told City Journals at the time of Steed’s hiring that it took a few years of convincing to get the new Cottonwood coach and longtime teacher at the school to accept in 2024—after the previous coach had stepped down. Steed accepted, and he, along with assistants Gil Ruiz and Rafael Mavarez, led Cottonwood to a 15-10 record in his first year.

In a way, it was fitting that one of Southwick’s final acts at Cottonwood was to assist a fallen student-athlete, and to have Steed—one of Southwick’s final coaching hires in his time here—lend a big hand in that.

Coach Steed now also works under a new athletic director in James MacIntyre, but the aim is the same as the reason Southwick hired Steed—get Cottonwood baseball back to prominence in a Class 4A Region 10 that is fraught with tough competition. The Colts added to their staff as well, hiring nine-year Major League Baseball vet George Sherrill as a pitching coach during the offseason.

Last year, the Colts finished a respectable

9-6 in a region filled with schools such as Park City, who won the title with a 14-1 record, and a Juan Diego Catholic team that finished one game ahead of Cottonwood. This year, however, the UHSAA has added four other schools to Class 4A Region 10 in this latest round of realignment: Murray, East, Highland and Judge Memorial Catholic.

Park City is the favorite to win once again, followed by Juan Diego and Murray, according to local media. But, the Colts are tabbed by to finish fourth, right in the middle of the pack.

That might be just about right for a Colts team returning 11 rotation players including seniors Zeland Carpepnter, Milo Crayk (5-2 as a pitcher in nine appearances, 42 strikeouts), Zane Wayman (4-2, eight games, 26 K), Porter Stonebreaker (.444 batting average) and Kingston Griffin who hit 12 RBI last year. It’s enough experience for the Colts to go out there and surprise some teams.

Cottonwood also has a handful of underclassmen that are versatile at the plate and have shown they have trusty gloves. Junior Joaquin Reymus hit .265 with 12 RBI in 49 plate appearances last season, and his classmate Noble Weaver had four stolen bases to go with a .970 fielding percentage in 2024-25. Other players returning to the Colts that had their moments include juniors MJ Diemoz, Peyton Ruiz, Pey-

son Summers and Quinn Mendenhall. Sophomore Zachary Kitt has cracked the varsity starting lineup—to do so on this junior-and-senior laden team.

One difference between last year and this, is that Cottonwood will not be traveling to the southern end of the state to play preseason games. The Colts will only go as far as Uintah County to play a weekend game, and will also have eight other preseason games home and away along the Wasatch Front before hitting the field for their Region 10 opener at Highland, March 24. l

The

By Peri Kinder peri.k@thecityjournals.com

Three foundational goals stand at the heart of Promise SSL: every child has the chance to attend and graduate from college, each resident has a safe, clean home and neighborhood, and everyone has the opportunity to be healthy and prosper.

What began as a grassroots initiative from South Salt Lake Mayor Cherie Wood in 2004 became an official city department in 2012, and Promise SSL continues to redefine what success looks like in its diverse communities.

This year, the organization reached a new evolutionary point as it earned its 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status as a nonprofit. The newly formed Promise South Salt Lake Foundation will continue its programs that serve more than 2,500 youth, families and community members each year.

“The growth and evolution of Promise South Salt Lake is the result of over a decade of hard work from our staff,” Wood said. “What started as a youth after-school program is now a complete cradle-to-career pipeline that uplifts youth and families beyond traditional services

Promise SSL earns nonprofit status

and infrastructure. And our senior service programs ensure we support and address the needs of our residents at every age.”

With more than 26,000 residents in South Salt Lake, the Promise SSL model features something to fit every demographic, from its Baby & You classes and after-school programs to the teen tech center and community resource pantry.

It has also added a senior services liaison position to create more ways for the older generation to be involved with the community. The Promise SSL nonprofit status will open doors for more partnerships and funding opportunities for these types of services.

The success of the program has gained national recognition as community leaders from other states have studied the Promise SSL model and have begun replicating it in other locations.

“It might look a little different, because every community might need something a little different, but it’s the idea of having services and programs that support a cradle-to-career pipeline,” said Promise SSL Director Kelli Meranda. “We’ve had organizations or communities from outside the city come and tour to see how we’ve set up our work here in South Salt Lake.”

With measurable goals and consistent tracking, program directors can see what’s working and what needs to be improved to

SPRING OUTDOOR SOCCER

Season Runs: Season runs May 4th - June 1st

Where: 1040 E. Sugarmont Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84106 - South East Field

Who: 3 - 12 co-ed youth

Cost: $65/player before deadline, $75 after deadline

Late Fee Begins: April 17 , 2026 th

Registration remains open until teams are full.

HOCKEY CLINIC

Clinic Day: April 18th

Where: Sugar House Boys & Girls Club

968 Sugarmont Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84106

Who: K - 8 Grade co-ed youth th

Cost: $30/player

Registration remains open until teams are full.

For more information contact Linnea Aguirre at Laguirre@gslclubs.org

create better outcomes for children, families and neighborhoods.

Promise SSL Advancement Manager Tim Johns will oversee initiatives related to the nonprofit’s fundraising while cultivating relationships to grow the programs. He will also implement a storytelling program to help share success stories.

“We’re reaching out to the community to get input from parents, students who participate in our programs and volunteers with the organization,” Johns said. “We want to hear exactly how the program has changed their lives.”

While progress has been incremental, Promise SSL has reported positive changes in the city. In a recent survey, 100% of parents reported their kids feel safe in the after-school programs. Organizers know its success is a combination of the coalition work, community integration and family support.

“The results speak for themselves,” Wood said. “The true purpose is to give all our residents the opportunities and resources they need to succeed and lead happy, healthy and meaningful lives.”

Learn more about the organization’s programs at sslc.gov. l

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South Salt Lake unveils 10-year parks master plan

Plan prioritizes nature-based amenities and modern urban social spaces.

By Linda Petersen l.petersen@mycityjournals.com

On Feb. 25, Parks Project Manager

Anthony Biamont unveiled a new 10year parks plan for South Salt Lake which his department has been working on for the past year to city officials.

“Parks [are] continuing to have a key part in why people choose to live here, stay here and enjoy living in South Salt Lake,” he said.

The plan is the result of an intensive community engagement process launched over a year ago to “figure out what exactly the residents in South Salt Lake wanted to see in their park system,” Biamont said.

To help develop the plan, the city utilized an advisory board comprised of residents, community leaders and city staff.

A primary goal of the plan is to transform urban spaces and ensure equal access to parks for all residents by closing what Biamont called “access gaps” ensuring every resident lives within a 10-minute walk (halfmile) of a park or plaza.

Residents have prioritized “nature-based” amenities, Biamont said. “Things like just trees, nature playgrounds, community gardens, lawns, grass [and] places to hammock were the biggest group or category of amenities that people wanted to see,” he said.

However, the feedback also highlighted a strong desire for “social” spaces, including beer gardens, dog parks, food truck plazas, festival streets and outdoor gaming areas.

“It’s not just the seniors that like to party,” Biamont joked. “Our residents really like

to get together, and that was very evident in what they said they wanted to see most in park amenities.”

The plan also looks toward more modern “urban” gathering spots.

“There was a lot of interest in just places to hang out that are maybe more urban in nature,” Biamont said. “Maybe they have other uses, retail uses [or] other kinds of entertainment going on.”

Among the priority projects are new plazas at the water tower—a project already in development—and new public spaces near Central Pointe Station and along the streetcar line west of State Street. The plan also incorporates the Mill Creek Greenway, a long-term regional vision involving the Seven Canyons Trust, WFRC and County Parks.

“There are a lot of people very interested in creating something similar to what we have with Parley’s Trail... but along Mill Creek,” Biamont said.

Other proposed additions to the city’s recreation portfolio include splash pads, a skate park, volleyball courts, art installations and educational interpretive signage. These recommendations form the core of the city’s “priority projects” for the next decade.

The plan, which will be presented for formal approval in the coming months, will serve as the city’s administrative guide for decision-making, funding strategies and capital improvements through 2036.

“As we expand and grow and enhance our park system, we have this guiding document to lead us along the way,” Biamont said. “When we are going to in the future try to build out new parks and come again before council and before our residents... there will be a better understanding of where we’re coming from.”l

For Cottonwood boys hoops, a turbulent season is capped off by a repeat Region 10 title

Colts go unbeaten over the final month to ride to their fourth straight league crown.

By Brian Shaw b.shaw@mycityjournals.com

Whatan up and down season it was for the Cottonwood boys basketball team. It started out amazingly. A 7-1 mark out of the gates had these Colts galloping. And yet the proverbial wheels fell off to the point that Cottonwood lost five of its next 11 games.

After that point in the season though, or Jan. 8 to be exact, the Colts were not fazed. They started winning and didn’t stop—on the way to a fourth straight league title.

“Had a great finish! Won nine in a row to secure region championship,” said Cottonwood Athletic Director James MacIntyre.

Before the region-clinching game in a solemn ceremony, a jam-packed Cottonwood High School gym held a beautiful tribute for the family of the late Greg Southwick, the recently retired Cottonwood AD who passed away recently in a Cedar City hospital, in a speech written by MacIntyre.

“Before tonight’s game, Cottonwood High School would like to take a moment to

honor and remember Greg Southwick, whose life and service left a lasting mark on this school and community. As part of that remembrance, we would like to present flowers to Greg’s wife, Robyn, as a small token of the Cottonwood community’s love, gratitude and continued support.

Greg was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, coach, educator and friend. He proudly served Cottonwood High School as Athletic Director, and dedicated more than three decades to education and athletics. Throughout his career, Greg was known for his steady leadership, his integrity and his unwavering belief in the potential of young people.

For Greg, working with students and athletes was never just a job—it was a calling. He cared deeply about character, relationships and doing things the right way. The lessons he taught extended far beyond the classroom, course and the court. His influence will continue to be felt through the countless lives he touched.

This evening, we are honored to have Greg’s family and friends with us. We extend our deepest gratitude to them for sharing Greg with Cottonwood High School, and for allowing him to serve this community with such passion and commitment for

many years.

Tonight’s cowboy theme is dedicated to Greg—Cottonwood’s favorite cowboy— whose spirit, strength and leadership continue to ride with this program and community.

In honor of Greg’s life, his service and his enduring legacy, we ask that you please join us in a moment of silence.”

The Colts boys and coaching staff then rode that emotion from losing someone they knew and loved to a 12-8 lead after one quarter against Judge Memorial Catholic. After that, Cottonwood poured in 16 points in the second quarter and another 40 in the second half to thump Judge 64-49 and capture a fourth straight league title.

It was a great way to honor Southwick, as Cottonwood (18-5, 10-2 Region 10) finished off the regular season in style. He would’ve been proud of how they got right back in the saddle and kept riding. The Colts culminated the month of January with two huge wins. The first came Jan. 27 at Murray, a game that Cottonwood’s archrivals led by two points after one quarter of action.

In the second quarter though, the Colts showed why they hadn’t lost a game since Jan. 6. They poured in 25 second-quarter points, aided by 6-foot-9-inch big man Luka Cecez’ 18 points, four rebounds, four assists

and two steals, rolling to a 53-45 win over Murray. It avenged a 55-54 loss at home to the Spartans earlier in the season, setting the stage for another big showdown against the only other team to hand the Colts a loss: East.

There would be no first quarter jitters for the Colts on Jan. 30, however. Galloping out to a 19-15 lead on their home floor, Cottonwood looked good after one quarter of play but East caught fire in the second, putting Cottonwood in a one-point hole at the break.

In front of a raucous crowd, the Colts raced out to a 24-point third quarter and clamped down on East for a 70-64 win. In this one, Malei Atem was the top scorer, dropping 19 points while shooting 70% from the field.

It was the second straight victory for Cottonwood in which it avenged an earlier loss and put the Colts right back in the thick of the Region 10 title chase.

From there, Cottonwood would clinch a No. 4 seed in the 4A state tournament, and with it, a first-round bye.

As this Cottonwood community just found out, good things and people in life do sometimes come to an end. The Colts fell in the 4A state second round Feb. 13 to Mountain View by a final score of 76-72 to end their season with an 18-6 record, but the kids honored Southwick with dignity and courage. l

Cottonwood softball wins its season opener

Lady Colts thump Summit Academy 24-4 to open season at home behind two-hitter from senior pitcher Savannah Staheli.

By Brian Shaw b.shaw@mycityjournals.com

oing into the season, Cottonwood head softball coach Natalie Wonnacott knew she had most of her starters coming back from last year’s team, giving her Lady Colts a shot in the arm.

“There has been a lot of excitement. We had most of our team return from last year and added some new faces,” said Wonnacott. “The girls have been working really hard in the offseason to get some experience and confidence. It has been fun to see them grow and get better, and we are excited to see what we can do this season.”

If game one was any indication, Cottonwood might be a team to contend with.

The Lady Colts hosted Summit Academy March 4 for an afternoon showdown and gave up two runs to start the game. In the bottom of the first inning though, Cottonwood bats exploded for 15 runs giving the Colts a 13-run lead going into

the second inning.

In the second, Summit Academy again scored two runs. But Cottonwood got out of the inning ahead by 11 runs. All the Colts needed to do? Tack on a few more insurance runs—which they did by scoring nine more.

Cottonwood (1-0) then held Summit Academy scoreless in the top of the third to take a 24-4 win, via a 10-run, three-inning UHSAA rule.

For the Lady Colts, senior Savannah Staheli got the victory. She pitched 2.2 innings, allowing just two hits and striking out seven. Junior Piper Wilking slammed a three-run home run, and six Cottonwood players combined to hit 10 RBI.

Preseason games will continue sporadically through March and April, but Region 10 play started March 6 with a game at Park City for a Cottonwood squad that trots out eight seniors: Tialer Mounts, Melody Hernandez, Lola Grover, Gisel Oxlaj, Ashley Tiaxca, Taylor Clark, Itzia Lopez-Mendoza and Staheli. The team will be co-captained by Mounts and Grover, two kids that have been regular rotation players for Cottonwood for several years.

As juniors, Mounts and Grover hit .357 and .253, respectively, hitting 10 to-

tal RBI for this Lady Colts team that also got significant contributions from sophomores such as Samanntha Rodriguez and Breeya Busey who led last year’s team with .438 and .410 batting averages and RBI, with nine apiece.

Combine that firepower with that of Piper Wilking, who got 41 valuable plate appearances last year as a sophomore and already showed off her range with a three-run bomb in the season opener and Jane Wonnacott who as a sophomore had 36 appearances at home plate and got on base enough to score nine runs last season, and it’s a loaded lineup at Cottonwood in 2025-26.

The one other interesting wrinkle to this season for the Lady Colts, said coach Wonnacott, is that a number of new schools have been added to the mix in Class 4A Region 10.

Those schools include Highland, Murray, Judge Memorial Catholic and East for a region that will also have Juan Diego Catholic and Jordan, along with Park City. According to coach Wonnacott, she and her players look forward to the challenge.

“We are in a new region and that is always fun to get to play some new teams and see how that goes,” the coach said. l

County Council proposal expands childcare access without taxpayer subsidies

More daycare spots available without using tax dollars? That’s what the Salt Lake County Council voted unanimously to support last month when Councilmember Laurie Stringham and I brought forward a proposal to explore a new approach to childcare.

Last December, the council voted to close four county-run daycare centers as part of efforts to reduce the proposed property tax increase put forward by Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson. An extensive report highlighted the significant subsidy the county had been providing to a relatively small number of families. Taxpayers were contributing between $6,000 and $10,000 per child each year, covering roughly half of the tuition costs for 271 children enrolled in county-run programs.

Many residents who contacted me said they support helping families who are struggling financially afford childcare. That’s a reasonable and compassionate position. However, the county program had no income qualifications, meaning families earning above the median household income were also receiving subsidies funded

Aimee Winder Newton

Salt Lake County Councilmember District 3

by taxpayers — including those living on fixed or lower incomes.

The report and audit findings also made it clear that while the county performs many important services well, operating childcare centers was not one of them. In addition to financial concerns, the program had operational challenges that raised questions about whether the county should be directly running childcare programs in the first place. Even if the program had worked perfectly, it would have been impossible for the county to provide daycare services to every family who might want them.

At the same time, the need for childcare in our community continues to grow.

DRIVE CLEAN. DRIVE HAPPY.

Families across Salt Lake County are facing rising childcare costs and limited availability, making it difficult for many parents to remain in the workforce. Access to reliable childcare is not just a family issue — it is also an economic issue that affects employers and communities across the county.

As Stringham and I looked for alternatives, we began exploring whether the county could help expand childcare access without directly operating the programs or increasing taxes.

Our proposal is simple: allow nonprofit childcare providers to lease existing county childcare spaces and operate their own programs. These organizations would raise their own funding, hire their own staff, and manage their own operations. In return, they would receive discounted rent in exchange for prioritizing care for low-income and vulnerable families. The rent payments would cover the county’s operations and maintenance costs for the space, ensuring that taxpayers are not subsidizing the programs.

This type of partnership could create a win-win solution. Nonprofit providers gain

access to affordable space, families gain additional childcare options, and taxpayers are protected from ongoing subsidies.

The council unanimously approved our legislative intent, and our Parks and Recreation Department will now evaluate childcare spaces at the Magna, Kearns, and Northwest Recreation Centers to determine which facilities may be viable for leasing to childcare providers. We are also working with the Granite School District to explore a similar arrangement for the childcare space in Millcreek.

Councilmember Stringham and I recognize that this approach will not solve the childcare shortage overnight, but it represents a practical step forward. By working with community partners, Salt Lake County can help expand childcare availability while respecting the taxpayers who make these public facilities possible.

Families deserve more childcare options, and taxpayers deserve responsible stewardship of public funds. With creative partnerships and thoughtful planning, we can pursue both goals at the same time.

If there’s one thing that makes you question your life choices, it’s sitting at a child’s outdoor soccer game in April.

Clutching Stanley mugs filled with coffee, whisky, or both, parents and grandparents sit on wobbly camp chairs, huddled under musty blankets while trying not to be too conspicuous about checking the time.

The idea is sound: help kids understand the concepts of a sport and learn teamwork. In reality, it’s about which kid brought the best treats or if we’re going to catch pneumonia and die before the game ends.

Utah’s spring is a weather roulette that can have you freezing at 9 a.m. and sweltering by noon. The cold wind, constant trickle of rain and glacial temperatures give way to heat stroke and sunburn before halftime.

My four daughters played softball every spring for what felt like 75 consecutive years. Each year, we’d bundle up in coats, gloves, scarves and earmuffs to watch them play. We shoved handwarmers into pockets and told them to “Think warm thoughts.”

It was often torture. Not only do you watch your child strikeout, but strikeout in 45-degree weather. They’d hold the bat with frozen hands, waiting for the impact to snap their fingers off at the knuckles.

Now, my grandkids enjoy soccer, which is played no matter the weather, and everything is mud. The only thing running faster than my granddaughter is my nose. Except

The view from the sidelines

Peri Kinder Life and Laughter

when it’s treat time, then the whole team finds a burst of adrenaline to snatch up granola bars and Capri Suns. Don’t even think about bringing oranges or bananas. Who are you? Someone who hates kids?

Each spring, hope wears shin guards and batting helmets. It’s a fresh start, a chance to learn skills and an opportunity for new coaches to lower their expectations.

You can spot a new coach by their optimism. They come prepared with drills, practice schedules and intricate plays, but by the end of the season, they’re just happy to have players who can identify a soccer ball and run in the right direction.

They also have to deal with parents. There’s always that person who believes their child is the next Lionel Messi or Aaron Judge. They memorize the rule book and counter every official’s call. “Blue! Were you the lookout on the Titanic?” or “Hey, Ref! Are we keeping you awake?”

They scream at their child to “Run!” for 45 minutes straight and call their 6-year-old over

between innings to explain baseball defense.

Yet, even in drizzly, cold weather, spring sports thrive. There’s just something about watching a child finally hit the ball off a tee or score their first goal. We see coaches kindly redirect a player’s attention from doing cartwheels to protecting third base.

When your granddaughter makes a great pass, she looks to the sidelines to see if you saw it happen. You did.

Although we complain about the mud, the temperature, the uncomfortable seating and wonder if the other team altered the birth certificate of their star player, there’s something inherently human about watching young people navigate sportsmanship.

It’s not about winning. It’s about showing up for the kids you love. You watch them fall on their faces, sometimes literally, and get back up. You watch them strike out, kick the ball in the wrong goal or drop an easy fly ball, and wince along with them.

If there’s one thing that makes you question your life choices, it shouldn’t be watching a child you love run past you with a big grin on their face. Even wrapped in quilts, chugging espresso, you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.

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