South Salt Lake Journal | February 2024 by The City Journals

February 2024 | Vol. 10 Iss. 2

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NICK MITCHELL BECOMES FIRST BLACK AND LGBTQIA+ ELECTED OFFICIAL IN UTAH By Jesse M. Gonzalez | j.gonzalez@mycityjournals.com

outh Salt Lake leads the charge in progressive change in the state of Utah, as Nicholas Mitchell becomes the first black and openly LGBTQIA+ councilman in the state’s 128-year history. Nick Mitchell was sworn in for District 4 in South Salt Lake on Jan. 2, and the beloved city has now become the most diverse in Utah. Mitchell was born in Utah and moved to California when he was a child. He eventually returned to his home state and attended the University of Utah where he played football until a work accident forced him to take a pause on his athletic pursuits. Now, as city councilman, Mitchell sets his sights on the community’s future, filled with the best intentions. “Making a safer community, more sense of pride in our community, getting out and knowing people. That’s what I really want to push,” Mitchell said. “So we can grow, we can make sure that we’re safe.” On Jan. 10, Mitchell was part of the first city council meeting of his term at South Salt Lake City Hall, less than two months after his victory over Councilwoman Portia Mila in the municipal election last November.

“It was a little overwhelming,” Mitchell said regarding his initial council meeting. “I just wanted to do the right thing because it was a pretty important city council meeting. There was a lot of people there. The most I’ve ever seen personally, and there were about 60 people online. It was definitely interesting. “The big thing that happened was the appointment of Lieutenant Danielle Croyle to police chief. There was a lot of excitement around that.” Mitchell chose to abstain from voting. “I felt like I didn’t have enough information. I had questions that needed answers.” Mitchell has been thinking about and working diligently towards political and community-based aspirations for quite some time now. “I was thinking about running back in 2022. I had a goal to run in 2024. Then in 2021, when Jan. 6 happened, I thought, ‘I have to do something.’ And so I ran,” he said, reflecting on his journey. “I initially said I was gonna run for senate, then I met Kael Weston, and I was like, ‘Okay, Kael, you’re way more qualified than I am. I trust you.’ And so I stepped down for mayor and was going to run for senate. And I For all that Nick Mitchell has accomplished, he stands triumphant as South Salt Lake’s new city councilContinued page 11 man. (Photo courtesy of Nick Mitchell)

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SSL application approval could mean millions coming to city coffers By Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com

n estimated $185 million over the next 20 years. That’s how much money Mayor Cherie Wood said could come to the city’s downtown area after its HTRZ (housing and transit reinvestment zone) application was unanimously approved in December. Wood described it as “a big win” for South Salt Lake in comments made during the Jan. 10 city council meeting. “I’m grateful to HTRZ committee for seeing our vision and for providing the tools and resources to bring much needed housing, community, amenities and vibrance to downtown South Salt Lake City,” she said. “This is just the beginning.” In 2021 the HTRZ Act was approved by the state legislature that aims to provide funding for cities to work with developers to address a lack of housing and affordable housing around transit hubs in Utah. The application’s approval is expected to have significant implications for the city’s downtown redevelopment around the Central Pointe Station and Main Street S Line Station. This will help more high density like apartments, condos and townhomes be built next to the already established public transportation stations. This is meant to include affordable housing options as the city works with developers. As part of the property tax increment that will come from such projects, city officials indicated in addition to the residential buildings, the area will need public gathering spaces, more walking and biking paths connecting to existing transit or regional paths, and streetscaping to beautify Millions in reinvestment could come to two of South Salt Lake’s transit areas over the next 20 years the city’s application was approved. (South the area. Its application highlighted why South Salt Lake at this Salt Lake) point in time is right for this type of funding. The city, as noted by Community and Economic Development Director Jon- ry of industry with many manufacturing and light-industrial land use efficiency and reduced fuel consumption. Wood said staff worked for over a year to appear before athan Weidenhamer in a November presentation, has long buildings along the rail lines and freeways well-suited for the board and seek approval. lacked areas for such development due to the tax-exempt redevelopment. “We have a historic opportunity to unlock and revitalize The HTRZ board includes state legislative members regional facilities like the jail and homeless resource center, along with large stretches of freeways, railroads and surface this critically located real estate,” city officials write in its and the governor’s office. Councilmember Clarissa Williams noted other cities streets. Those take up 31% of the city’s footprint, according application. The city’s proposal also highlights its ability to be a are trying to start the HTRZ process and follow South Salt to the application. Because of that, the application notes the city has histor- place where residents can live in a range of incomes, work at Lake’s lead. “[South Salt Lake has] become leaders in a lot of differically struggled to generate sufficient sales tax revenue lead- nearby major employers, move with nearby available transit ing to decade-long efforts to bring in retailers like WinCo and play as it increases recreation and leisure opportunities. ent things, not only the homeless resource officers but also It also argues more strategic development is encouraged as the things we have in this city that other cities are trying to Foods, to establish state tax revenues. The application also underlines South Salt Lake’s histo- well as improving water conservation and air quality through accomplish.” l

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Students, staff and city officials gather for the ribbon cutting at the Historic Scott School. (Photo courtesy of Jen Hill/South Salt Lake)

An anachronistic photo of the Redwood Building and students and staff many years before the renovations took place. (Photo courtesy of South Salt Lake)

Historic Scott School opens newly renovated Redwood Building By Jesse M. Gonzalez | j.gonzalez@mycityjournals.com

n Dec. 8, the Historic Scott School opened their newly renovated Redwood Building. There was a ribbon cutting and over 50 people attended the open house hosted by the city of South Salt Lake. “Each building on this campus has a unique story that adds to the history of our community,” said Sharen Hauri, who was the leading project manager. “This is significant in that it is the first major interior renovation of any of the Scott School campus buildings in about 50 years,” said Joseph Dane, a community outreach coordinator. “Constructed by pioneers in 1848, Scott School was one of the first schools built in Utah to teach children and is currently the longest continuously operating education center in the state.” As the name implies, Historic Scott School, located at 540 E. 3280 South, has a rich history in the community. “In 1908, the name changed to Granite High School after three other schools consolidated students into Scott School, making it the first consolidated school district in the U.S.,” Dane said. When Granite High School started to develop on the south side of 3300 South, Scott School kept its original name and continued having their class sessions in the building, even ephemerally teaching gym in the basement. “In 1917, parts of a building from Buena Vista were moved and reassembled to become the shop class. An auto mechanic building was later added,” Hauri said. Those buildings were transferred over to the school and constructed together for the south end of the Redwood Building. “In the 1950s, the conglomerate of spaces that was the Redwood Building was used for arts and craft classes, including evening classes taught by Mrs. Glenn Beeley. The auto shop converted to what is now the Art Room, and

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a puppet theatre was added,” Hauri said. “After 100 years as a school, it began to be used by The Pioneer Craft House organization, which formed in 1947 to celebrate the Utah centennial anniversary,” said Dane. “A joint use agreement by The Pioneer Craft House, Salt Lake County Recreation, and Granite School District was led for many years and much of the coordination and organization was led by Mrs. Glenn Beeley, who is honored with a plaque on the property.” In 2007, the school district sold the property to the City of South Salt Lake. “The City successfully received a grant from the Salt Lake County Zoo, Arts & Parks program to purchase the property. Today, South Salt Lake continues a decades-long tradition of keeping the campus open for community learning programs that serve youth, arts and cultural traditions,” Dane said. “In 1964, a major addition was added to the north—the Great Hall. This distinctive space is considered the first example of California Modern Architecture in Utah, and was designed by Fred Montmorency, one of the founders of MHTN Architecture,” Hauri said. “Today, the wood interior trim, soaring ceiling and fireplace are a cozy place to meet. When it first opened, it was a place of distinction, used by community leaders and dignitaries such as the governor, but off-limits to Granite High students.” South Salt Lake employees came up with the Redwood Building’s name when the property was acquired. “They attempted to give logical names to each building, which were all painted red,” Hauri said. “The Redwood Building had a distinctive cedar shake roof and two redwood trees next to it. The room names inside the building have changed over time to suit the purpose, but

for the most part still use the original names to pay homage to the building’s history— great hall, art class and classroom.” Renovation began in the early spring of 2023 with an approximate cost of $200,000. The project was funded by CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) through the Salt Lake County Office of Regional Development. “The interior renovations followed the original architectural design of the building by MHTN Architects, included construction to comply with all ADA standards, added an additional bathroom and kitchen for serving youth meals, and new office space for Promise SSL staff,” Dane said. “The South Salt Lake Department of Neighborhoods oversaw the renovation project and contracted with Carbon Architects for the interior design and Maddox Construction for the demolition and construction. The event was coordinated and facilitated by the South Salt Lake Department of Neighborhoods and Promise South Salt Lake,” Dane said. The ribbon cutting event was met with comments by South Salt Lake Mayor Cherie Wood, Dina Blaes, Salt Lake County Director of the Office of Regional Development, and Kelli Meranda, Director of Promise South Salt Lake. “Promise SSL after-school program youth helped hold and cut the ribbon and were the first to enter the building,” Dane said. “Following the ribbon cutting, an open house was held to welcome the public inside the newly renovated building for the first time since construction began earlier this year. Guests took part in building tours, history exhibits, refreshments, kids’ craft activities and live music,” Dane said. The historical treasure and landmark that is the Historic Scott School has greatly

and positively impacted a multiplicity of individuals’ lives through education and community integration, and as further restoration follows, the school will continue to uphold its tradition and its values. “As funding allows, South Salt Lake will continue to renovate, restore and preserve the property and allow it to breathe and shine as it did 100 years ago in its heyday,” said Dane. “Ideally, the city will be able to register the Historic Scott School Community Center with the National Register of Historic Sites through the National Parks Service as well as the Utah State Register.” “This will require renovations to the exterior buildings of Scott School and Redwood Building that will restore them to their original character and facade. In the near future and pending funding, the city plans to renovate the interior of the original Scott School building to enhance and expand community arts and cultural programming,” Dane said. “South Salt Lake is very fortunate as a community to have this historic treasure,” Dane said. “So many of our landmarks have been demolished over the years, including Granite High. South Salt Lake is committed to preserving the Historic School Community Center for the memories of all who have learned here and will continue to teach and enrich future generations. South Salt Lake will be planning and fundraising in the coming years and welcome anyone who is interested in getting involved.” As information becomes available, it will be posted on the city’s website at www. sslc.gov. l

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South Salt Lake event highlights historic victory in diversity By Jesse M. Gonzalez | j.gonzalez@mycityjournals.com

n Jan. 17, People of Color Power Coalition, an organization with the aim to inspire minorities in Utah to be more politically involved, hosted a “celebration of success” at La Puente on South State Street to highlight a historic victory in South Salt Lake. Newly elected and reelected city council members Natalie Pinkney, Paul Sanchez and Nick Mitchell were all in attendance at the event. “So essentially, South Salt Lake is the most diverse city in Utah, far and away, the most diverse city in Salt Lake County,” Paul Sanchez said, a newly elected member of the city council. The event provided free food for the council members and a local DJ, a friend of Sanchez’s, DJ Luva Luva. “So we’re looking at Natalie Pinkney—she’s black, we have Nick Mitchell—black man, also identifies as LGBTQ. I’m a Latino, a gay, openly gay. That’s pretty much as diverse as you can get,” Sanchez said. The council members, organizers, community members, family and friends enjoyed the food and ambiance of South Salt Lake’s popular Mexican restaurant. Sanchez, Pinkney, and Mitchell enjoyed conversing with the vibrant music of DJ Luva Luva in the background. With passions for politics, the trio kept the conversations focused on progress and moving forward. “We were just talking about what it really meant to be inclusive of Utah and it’s really been interesting,” Pinkney said. “Diversity and inclusion, and Utah looking a little different than what it looked like eight years ago.” It was eight years ago that Pinkney moved to Utah from Las Vegas, Nevada to enroll in the University of Utah, where she received her master’s degree in educational leadership and policy with an emphasis in social justice. “In grad school I got really involved in activism and causes. I believe education is a right, so I wanted to be really aligned with communities. I wanted to uplift and empower all communities,” Pinkney said. “I feel like when we help those who struggle the most, we help everyone else and that just kind of became my mission and I’ve been on it ever since.” Newly elected Councilman Nick Mitchell has high hopes for the future of South Salt Lake as well as solutions for problems related to any inhibition of growth. “Just continue to grow in diversity, and to foster more of a sense of community—that’s what I think we’re really lacking in South Salt Lake is just community across our city council, across our neigh-

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bors,” Mitchell said. “I don’t even know my neighbors, again, that’s on me, but I feel like that’s the way with a lot of people is that they don’t know each other. We can solve a lot more problems if we just get to know each other better.” Sanchez, who officially took office on Jan. 10, was keen to vocalize his frustrations with the political atmosphere of South Salt Lake, such as the recent appointment of new South Salt Lake Police Chief Danielle Croyle. The appointment caused a stir of controversy due to the lack of time and information that the council members before the voting in of a new police chief. “I’ve had three city council meetings. There’s more corruption in the city than I ever imagined. Ever. From the police department to the city department. It’s just everywhere. It’s unbelievable,” Sanchez said. “There’re email threads and everything. I got the county involved. I got the state involved. I’ve gotten the Attorney General of the United States involved. That’s how bad it is. “That’s why you don’t see the mayor here. That’s why you don’t see the police department here. We’re celebrating the most diverse city council in the state of Utah, and you’re not going to show up to support us?” Pinkney was a bit more pacified regarding the contentious situation, though her ardor for the city’s betterment comes first in her scope of ambition. “The mayor and the police chief have been a partner with me passing the Civilian Review Board. South Salt Lake was the only city in 2020 to say, ‘Black Lives Matter,’ not just with their voice but with their policy. So that’s what I look at,” Pinkney said. All of the council members want the best for South Salt Lake. The celebration for greater diversity gave everyone in attendance a feeling that further changes, positive changes, are about to come. “More representation. Even inside of South Salt Lake, while the council is diverse, we don’t have diversity within City Hall. How can we bring in more voices, more communities?” Pinkney said. “I heard a lot on the campaign trail of wanting to embrace more cultures to our arts programs. So how can we continue to do that? I think our co-op and our community center has started that. How do we invest more into those programs so that people can feel like this is a hub for culture? I think we can do so much more to bring that culture to Utah, which we really need.” l

Nick Mitchell, Natalie Pinkney and Paul Sanchez share smiles at the “Celebration of Success” event on Jan. 17. (Jesse M. Gonzalez/City Journals)

DJ Luva Luva provides music and entertainment for the occasion. (Jesse M. Gonzalez/City Journals)

Natalie Pinkney poses for the camera, happy to be a part of Utah’s history. (Jesse M. Gonzalez/City Journals)

An overview of the evening of Jan. 17, when city officials celebrated a massive cultural victory in South Salt Lake. (Jesse M. Gonzalez/City Journals)

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‘Garbage Bag Girl’ details heartbreaking experience in the Utah foster care system By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

hen Celeste Edmunds entered the state’s foster care system at 7 years old, she spent the next nine years moving from family to family, and home to home. She carried her belongings in a garbage bag and lived in more than 30 cities by the age of 16. Edmunds recently published her memoir “Garbage Bag Girl” co-authored by New York Times bestselling author Richard Paul Evans. It’s a story of resilience and hope, and a heartbreaking account of her childhood that was often filled with abuse and neglect. “My childhood was a difficult and often unbearable experience where evil manipulation almost broke my spirit. But there were also caring people along the way who stepped in to do what they could to protect and nurture me,” Edmunds said. “As an adult, I look back at those moments and realize that they saved my life. My goal is to help as many children as possible in the child welfare system and help to ensure that they have the opportunities for success that I was not provided.” Surviving everything from her parents addiction to an ongoing series of fights, sexual and physical abuse, being adopted by a sadistic mother and fighting to stay connected to her younger siblings, Edmunds rose against the odds to tap into her own strength and power. As a teen, Edmunds went down a dark and difficult path before a compassionate woman offered Edmunds a safe home and taught her that “Home is where they have to keep you.” Edmunds was 16, a high school dropout and it was the first time she felt sup-

ported and nurtured. She dedicated her book to the woman, Carlie, who she considers to be her mom. Carlie eventually adopted Edmunds and didn’t know the book would be dedicated to her. Edmunds said without the influence of Carlie and other people who believed in her, she would have ended up incarcerated or dead. “[Carlie] read the dedication and there was a moment of the two of us realizing what it all meant for us,” Edmunds said. “I said there is nothing I can ever give you to express how much you’ve given me. The book is the best I could do. “I like to remind her, very often, that nowhere I am today, nothing successful I’ve done would have happened without her…I don’t know where I would have landed.” Edmunds, a Sandy resident, believes everything in her life prepared her for her job as executive director of The Christmas Box International, an organization that offers a safe and nurturing environment to thousands of children each year as they begin to navigate the child welfare system. Located at 3660 S. West Temple Street in South Salt Lake, The Christmas Box International was founded in 1996 by Evans with the intention to create a safe place for Utah’s children. The organization was named after his first book, “The Christmas Box.” In the forward to “Garbage Bag Girl,” Evans writes, “I believe that ‘Garbage Bag Girl’ should be required reading for every parent, foster parent, child welfare worker, and

Celeste Edmunds, executive director of The Christmas Box International, shares her heartbreaking story of a childhood spent in the Utah foster care system in her memoir, “Garbage Bag Girl.” (Aligned Media)

schoolteacher; in short, everyone who advocates and cares for the children of the world.” Now, every child that leaves The Christmas Box International chooses new clothing, a new toy, new hygiene products and a new suitcase, backpack or duffle bag so they won’t have to carry their items in a garbage bag. “Our motto is that every child deserves a childhood but it extends to the fact that no child deserves to feel like garbage,” Edmunds said. “In 27 years, no child has ever left the

Christmas Box House with their items in a garbage sack. We’re very proud of that. Children also never leave with used items, they get only new items. It’s about a mindset we want to teach them that they deserve to know what it feels like to have a new pair of jeans or a new pair of sneakers.” For more information about The Christmas Box House International, visit TheChristmasBox.org. Edmunds’ book “Garbage Bag Girl” is available on Amazon. l

After a rocky start, the Lady Colts have found success

he three-point shot can often be looked at as both a detriment and a benefit. The old adage that you live and die by the three is true, to an extent; teams can be overzealous with it in any one game. But head coach Teresa Soracco is pleased with how the Lady Colts are improving despite the ups and downs that come when trying to establish a presence around the perimeter. “The team is doing really well. We have had some really good games and some rough ones. We are taking this season one game at a time,” Soracco said of her team that has won four of its last five. “We are taking our wins and losses and learning from them and growing as a team.” To that end, the coach said that Cottonwood [12-6] is working on improving their weaknesses and strengthening their strengths. And over the course of this season, they’ve been able to utilize a new weapon that makes them even more deadly than they were before. Case in point: the Region 10 opener at Jordan. The Lady Colts knocked down exactly one three-point shot in a narrow 33-29 loss on

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By Brian Shaw | b.shaw@mycityjournals.com Dec. 20, 2023. In that loss, Alivia Hutton in the No. 13 jersey was the only Lady Colt to have drained a triple. Several others attempted to make their threes—yet none were successful. Fast forward to Dec. 28 at the South Mountain Holiday Classic versus 5A Cyprus. The Lady Colts got three total triples in a 4945 loss. In the next game on Dec. 29, Cottonwood got five threes and routed Provo 58-30. By the time the tourney was over, the Lady Colts found their stride and ended it with a 2-2 record after thumping American Heritage 52-38 [seven threes in that one] and narrowly dropping a close one, 52-48, to East [Cottonwood only made two threes]. The running theme throughout preseason heading into Region 10 action was that when the Lady Colts were heating up from behind the arc, good things were happening. On Jan. 5, Cottonwood was back at home against Murray. And though the game was physical and low-scoring [a 48-42 win], the Lady Colts still buried three shots from three-

point land, nearly 20% of their scoring output for the entire game. When Cottonwood hosted Tooele on Jan. 10, the Lady Colts drilled six threes en route to a resounding 56-34 victory. But the most impressive win was yet to come. When Cottonwood visited crosstown rivals Hillcrest on Jan. 12, five Lady Colts players knocked down at least one three-point jumper in a 66-14 win. Against Stansbury on Jan. 19, the Lady Colts drained eight three-point shots, transforming a close battle into a blowout by the second quarter. For a Cottonwood team that already relies on a stingy defense under Soracco, one that is led by both Alivia Hutton and by Ciel Budge, playing this three-and-D will be critical to the Lady Colts’ success. “I have had a really fun time coaching this group of girls,” Soracco said. “They play with heart, grit and pride.” Ciel Budge [30 3-pt made, 8 points per game] is leading the Lady Colts’ charge from behind the arc and moving on up the leader-

board of Region 10. Hutton is no slouch, either; her 17 triples is second-best. Even Cottonwood’s bigs are getting in on the fun; Ashlyn Tripp has hit 14 threes and leading scorer Avea Van Der Beek [11 points per game, four triples] is joining in, as well. Wing Carley Caton is the Lady Colts’ second leading scorer at 10 points per game—yet she’s also knocking down jumpers from behind the arc [four threes]. Not to be outdone on a team that is as unselfish as you could find in women’s basketball, Bella Morris and Kya Budge have also drilled three triples for Cottonwood. For a team that sat 6-1 in Region 10 play at press time, tied with Jordan’s unblemished 6-1 mark, having good shooters to go with a tenacious defense should be a great help. By the time you read this, Cottonwood will have played at least three more Region 10 games—perhaps more. Only two or three more games will be left in league play. But you’d have to believe these Lady Colts will be right in the championship conversation based on the way they’re playing right now. l

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Outdoor Manna Market nourishes neighbors in need By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

OSAIC Inter-Faith Ministries started its Manna Market program nearly 20 years ago, providing food, clothing and other necessities to members of the community facing financial struggles. In addition to its market, MOSAIC, located at 3278 S. 540 East, offers a variety of services including programs for refugees to help them integrate into their neighborhoods. The ministry also provides basics to college education and employment. On Jan. 16, MOSAIC opened a new Manna Market location at the Central Park Community Center (2797 S. 200 East). Anyone who needs assistance can stop by the market to pick up food and other donations on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8:30-10 a.m. “With the rising prices of food, utilities and other things affecting people’s budgets, everyday families and individuals are really struggling to pay for basic needs,” said Rev. Dr. Leslie Whited, CEO of Mosaic Inter-faith Ministries. “People gather and meet and talk and share resources, and we have tables outside where people can bring clothing to share, and it’s all free.” Supported by the Utah Food Bank and

community donations, the Manna Market at Central Park will provide a larger space to accommodate more people. Whited said where they were seeing around 300 families a week, the number has jumped to around 600 families per week, looking for assistance. For those who can’t make it to the Manna Market at Central Park, there is also an indoor market at Historic Scott School (3280 S. 540 East) from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday through Thursday. Sarvend Madadov has worked with the Manna Market since 2007. What started as court-ordered community service has led to him becoming the market director. “I have four kids and an understanding of how people struggle to make payments with the prices going up,” Madadov said. “So this is helpful to everybody.” For those interested in donating to the Manna Market, items can be taken directly to the market during operating hours. Most-needed items include non-perishable foods, clothing, shoes, winter gear and household items. Donations can also be taken to the MOSAIC office in South Salt Lake. “If you have extra food at all, maybe you’re cleaning out your garage and you

OBESITY: This study is for adults over 18 and older who have type 2 diabetes, are obese, are overweight, and are at a high risk of heart or blood vessel disease. You must have a BMI greater than 25kg. This study can last one year or two years, depending on which group you get selected for. There are 20 clinic visits and 7 phone calls. To see if you qualify, call 801-542-8190. HYPERCHOLESTEROLEMIA: This study is for adults 18 and older who have hypercholesterolemia, and is 60 weeks long. There are two groups you could get put into for this study. There are 8 visits and one phone call. You must have a history of major ASCVD (Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease) which is a build-up of cholesterol plaque in the arteries. If you have no history of a major ASCVD but are intermediate to high risk for the development of a first major event, you may also be eligible to participate. Compensation may be provided if you qualify.

MOSAIC opened a new Manna Market location at the Central Park Community Center (2797 S. 200 East). Anyone who needs assistance can stop by the market to pick up food and other donations on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8:30-10 a.m. (Courtesy of MOSAIC)

have emergency food that you’re not going to use, or maybe you have extra food from your garden, or maybe you'd just like to give extra food to a pantry, we’ll take it. We love donations,” Whited said. Volunteers are also encouraged to help at the market. Whited said people come to the market for food but volunteers are on hand to help with job assistance, counsel-

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previously vaccinated with COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. You must be medically stable; you must agree to not participate in any other SARS-CoV-2 prevention or treatment trials for the study. You must have previously received 3 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine with the last dose having been given 90 days or longer. This study is 7.5 months long. There are 4 visits and one phone call. Call us today to see if you qualify, 3590 West 9000 South, compensation may be provided.

801.542.8198 Page 8 | February 2024

ing, college entrance and more. “We are giving food basics to help people in need, but we also do everything we can so that they’re in their best economic and stable place,” she said. For more information, visit the MOSAIC Inter-Faith Ministries Facebook page. l

Suite 300 West Jordan, UT 84088

velocitypatients.com S outh Salt Lake City Journal

With star player Chris Cox back, the Cottonwood boys are also a year older, wiser By Brian Shaw | b.shaw@mycityjournals.com

hris Cox is back. Those four words are all you need to know about Cottonwood boys basketball team and their chances at what should be a wide open 4A tournament. “Things are good,” reported Cottonwood head coach Marc Miller of his team that hasn’t lost a game since Cox’s return to the lineup Jan. 4. Cox, a Utah State University basketball verbal commit, transferred to AZ Compass in Arizona for six months and then had a change of heart, returning to Cottonwood for his final few months as a senior. As one of the best players in the state, Cox makes an already dangerous Colts team even more potent. Cottonwood [13-5, Region 10 7-0] opened Region 10 play rather early, and without the services of Cox traveled to Jordan on Dec. 19, 2023 winning by the final score of 60-57. John Rosevear leads the team in scoring at 16.8 points per game and so the junior continued to have a hot hand since coming over from Brighton in the summer. Rosevear had 17 points, right at his average; Tengis Bayasgalan chipped in 12 points. Mason Tolley, Bo Smith and

S outh SaltLakeJournal .com

Luka Cecez each had six. Since Cox’s official return to the lineup though, Cottonwood has kept an unblemished mark in league action. Cox posted 17 points and five rebounds to lead Colts’ scorers in a gritty 65-62 home win over Murray in his season debut, while Rosevear chipped in 16. Peter Oguama had 14 points, four rebounds, four assists and three blocks. On Jan. 9, the Colts hosted Tooele and blew open a close game in the third quarter to win 84-76. Cox continued to find his footing for Cottonwood, as he had 20 points to go with seven rebounds, while Oguama scored 18 points and had a teamhigh nine rebounds. Rosevear pitched in 11 points for the Colts, while Brighton transfer Luke Park had 11 points, 12 assists and eight steals. With Park [seven assists per game] at the helm and leading scorer Rosevear on one wing, it seems like the Colts—with Cox at the other wing—are slowly getting back to the lightning-quick guard play that made them such a tough out last season. They certainly flexed their muscles at Hillcrest on Jan. 11, riding out to a 37-15 halftime advantage before kicking it back

into cruise control in the second half for an easy 68-51 win. Oguama led Cottonwood with 16 points and seven rebounds, and Ryan Nielson scored a season-high 14 points on three threes to go with four rebounds and three assists. Rosevear and Park each added 10 points in their first showdown against the Colts’ crosstown rival. With Cox who’s already averaging 14.8 points per game at the other wing barely needing to break a sweat [6 points] in this all-important rivalry game at Hillcrest, it presented head coach Marc Miller with an opportunity to give some of his other players [13 in all] some more minutes. If you’re Cottonwood, you like the depth that Nielson, Tolley, Smith and Cecez are providing, along with Bayasgalan and Tommy Yates. None of the players mentioned in this paragraph scored fewer than five points in that pivotal win at Hillcrest. Of all the Colts players mentioned in this article, not even one is averaging fewer than three points per game and five have been averaging the same number of assists to steals. That ability to go 13 players deep is

certainly something that last year’s Cottonwood team did not have the luxury of at the 5A tournament when their 23-2 team ran up against the depth and length of Timpview. While looking ahead to the 4A tournament in March is probably something that coach Miller and his staff will not be doing, you can’t help but witness juggernaut Layton Christian in Region 8 or Dixie or any of the other Southern Utah-based schools in Region 9, or any of the Cache County/Box Elder County powers in Region 11. The kicker to these wins in region play is that it’s still early in region play, and the teams the Colts defeated are all talented. But if you’re a Cottonwood alum though, you’re excited about what’s to come; you can see the potential of this team coming to fruition. By the time this goes to press, Cottonwood will be a handful of games from the finish. And though you’ve seen and heard that song and dance before about being a favorite at state and falling short, you get the sense that this year will indeed be different now that the Colts are a year older and a year wiser. l

February 2024 | Page 9

Danielle Croyle tabbed new SSL police chief, but not without pushback By Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com

he South Salt Lake Police has seen its fair share of news recently. Questions were asked of how the police department’s leadership handled a lieutenant retiring late last year after a DUI conviction which led to further inquiries about the department’s culture. Former police chief Jack Carruth retired at the beginning of the year, marking 10 years at the position, which Mayor Cherie Wood wrote in a memo to employees was always the plan. But city officials hope the time of upheaval and controversy is behind them after Danielle Croyle was approved in a 5-1 South Salt Lake City Council vote in January to approve the mayor’s new appointment. Croyle previously served as the city’s public information officer. She selected Lt. Ryan Cram as her deputy chief. Croyle was scheduled to be sworn in on Feb. 1 (after press deadline). In her presentation of Croyle to the council, Wood said she focused on what type of leadership could take their police force to the “next level of service and professionalism” establishing a “culture of trust and collaboration.” “We have the building blocks for success,” she said. “We just need the glue to bring it together. I believe Danielle Croyle is

Danielle Croyle (left) sits next to Mayor Cherie Wood as she answers questions from the council during a January meeting. Croyle was named the SSL chief of police. (Screenshot)

the person to accomplish these goals.” Wood identified Croyle’s experience as an executive officer with South Salt Lake for last four years, her time working in the FBI’s Salt Lake field office and 25 years with the Ogden Police Department. She further pointed to Croyle’s abilities

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Page 10 | February 2024

to “establish exceptional working relationships” and contribute to overall success of the organizations she’s worked for, as well as her continual analysis, quality control, best practices and customer service. “I’m confident this fresh and vision-driven thinking is just what the police department needs,” Wood said. In response to prepared questions from the council, the first goal Croyle said was listening to the officers by creating working groups to drill down on ideas, concerns or issues from the officers so they can implement best practices. “The best to review the department are those doing the work,” she said. One of those working groups is already facilitating a change to the department’s mission statement to better streamline its objectives. Croyle said she planned to continue the homeless resource officers model that’s been set and work with the Civilian Review Board in addition to fostering communication with the community through coffee with a cop and the business watch meetings. She emphasized an importance to engage with the youth and all cultures that they weren’t “just here to enforce but be a community partner.” A few residents spoke prior to the vote with one man James (last name wasn’t given) said he felt the mayor made the best decision by bringing forward Croyle. He said she was already a great chief and community participant, pointing out the simplicity of the hire. “It’s not rocket science.” “This is the case of a good person who can command a great police department, and we need to support that and make that happen” he said. “If you question that then you need to go home and take a nap.” Susan Bowlden said she was impressed with Croyle’s answers to the council, but was concerned about the timing of the vote. The

vote was Wednesday, Jan. 10, with the Croyle announcement from the mayor’s office coming the preceding Friday night, Jan. 5. “Three days isn’t enough time to make such a large and important decision,” she said. Recent accusations of the department’s leadership need to be taken seriously, she said, before making an inhouse appointment. Bowlden suggested making her interim chief and having an investigation before finalizing the choice. “Perception matters,” she said. Former Ogden Police Chief Randy Watt endorsed Croyle as police chief having previously worked with her. “You’ve seen her direct efforts in your community,” he said before adding this appointment would “maintain momentum of the department’s success.” Two other letters from Croyle’s former coworkers at the FBI were read by the city recorder describing her as collaborative, receptive to feedback, high emotional intelligence and growth potential. Not all of the council was convinced however. Councilmember Paul Sanchez spoke at length about concerning behavior among the council in light of the recent KUTV News investigations into the city as well as the process to select Croyle. He said he received a call from a retired FBI supervisor the day before the vote that told him she had a detrimental impact at the department in her 15 months working there. Sanchez wanted to “look at her time and investigate it,” adding he wanted town halls on the decision and “a fair and transparent process.” Sanchez was the lone dissenting vote on the council. Councilmember Nick Mitchell, in his first council meeting since being elected in November, abstained from the vote. He said the vote “feels like it’s being rushed,” and wanted to “know more before making a decision.” Mitchell highlighted two interactions with SSL police based on his and his son’s race pointing out one was great while the other was terrible, acknowledging there is “change that is needed.” Councilmember Natalie Pinkney felt the controversy overshadowed the real issue: the council lacks “real legislative authority.” She appeared to have a problem with the hastiness of the appointment, but noted the rules say it is within mayor’s power and responsibility to “bring forward for advice and consent” her pick for the position. “We are a weak city council looking at our rule book,” she said. Pinkney, along with Councilmembers Sharla Bynum, Leanne Huff, Corey Thomas and Clarissa Williams, all voted in favor of Croyle as South Salt Lake’s new police chief. l

S outh Salt Lake City Journal

Continued from front page moved to the second congressional district, because I didn’t believe Chris Stewart was doing that great of a job.” Mitchell is a registered Democrat, though his disposition has been faced with some opposition by his own party. “I have a little problem with the Democratic Party with what they did to me in this race. They supported my opponent, even though they recruited me to run against her,” he said. “I’m writing an op-ed about it because what they did was outrageous. I ran for second, I did not vice chair the Democratic Party, and I felt like this was a little bit of a retaliatory move. “If being independent was actually a viable solution, like I could actually win, I would be an independent, but that’s not the case where right now we’re a two-party system, and you have to pick one or the other. Third parties usually don’t win. “This is a good place to see if I should like it or not, because being a candidate is way different than being a politician, but right now, I’m happy being a city council person. I just really want to help the city right now. I’ll see what comes my way in a couple of years, see what happens and how people view me and go from there.” It is an exciting time in the state’s history as Mitchell and the rest of the city council make way for new progressive changes. “We have led the way in being the most progressive city in Utah, and other cities are modeling themselves after our city. So I definitely want to keep that going and work with the city council to make sure that we’re always on the cutting edge and so I’m really excited

to keep that going,” Mitchell said. There was a celebration on Jan. 17 at La Puente, a Mexican restaurant, to relish in the positive changes that have been taking place in the city. “It was, from what I understood, a celebration of just kind of having a more diverse city council, because, you know, I’m black, Natalie [Pinkney] is black, Paul [Sanchez] is Latino. So we just want to celebrate the diverse nature of—Clarissa [Williams] is Native American, you know, so we’re a very diverse city council, and we just want to celebrate that,” Mitchell said. “I want to do the best for the people, and being the first queer black man ever elected in the state means a lot to me. I’ve always kind of been tokenized, because I was in Provo, Utah—there weren’t that many black people back in 2003 or 2004, and so I’ve always been in the spotlight,” he said. Being 6’2 and a 250-pound football player, Mitchell has become acquainted with the feeling of “sticking out,” and wants to set an example for others that they too can run for public office. “Anyone can be a politician. Anyone can do it. I would invite people to throw their hat in the ring, give it a go. I know a lot of people like to complain about politics, but very few people want to throw their hat in,” Mitchell said. “For me, it has softened my views on politicians, because I’m like, ‘Oh, you all really don’t have that much power.’ It was an awakening for me. I think that everyone should be involved in politics, and really learn.” l

CELEBRATING 10 Years in Riverton!

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3688 West 12600 South Riverton, UT 84065 801-254-4850

LarkinMortuary.com Nick Mitchell gets sworn in on Jan. 2, a historic moment in Utah. (Photo courtesy of Nick Mitchell)

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S E R V I N G U TA H FA M I L I E S F O R O V E R 1 3 9 Y E A R S

February 2024 | Page 11

Cottonwood junior Natty Alonso, senior Adessa Talbot on the verge of big things in 4A swimming By Brian Shaw | b.shaw@mycityjournals.com

ollowing in the footsteps of legends is never easy. Natty Alonso, who is now a junior at Cottonwood and senior Adessa Talbot have often been in the shadows of several great Colts swimmers, most of whom have gone on to even greater things at Division I college programs. One, of course, made it as far as the most recent Summer Olympics, where Rhyan White [Alabama Crimson Tide] won a silver medal in Tokyo. Alonso and Talbot have had the unenviable task of following White, a rather thankless task for anyone who would dare try to. But Alonso has been stepping up her game, one that started a long time ago as an 11 year old on the Wasatch Front Fish Market club team. Like White, Alonso did not start out as the top swimmer on her own club team; she’s had to work hard to get to where she is, now. And still the junior has others on her own high school team to look up to: Talbot, for example, recently committed to Western Colorado. Alonso and Talbot could’ve had their pick of high schools but chose Cottonwood in part by what White and others told them about the school and program headed by their longtime club and now high school head coach Ron Lockwood. Both Alonso and Talbot are beginning to see these relationships bear fruit. The Cottonwood junior Alonso has already had top10 finishes across Utah in three races [the 50 free, 100 back and 100 free] and is a favorite to win medals at the upcoming 4A championships in February along with Talbot, who has the 6th-fastest time in Utah in the 100 butterfly and the 15th fastest in the 100 back. At that same district event at Skyline in December where both ladies won medals, Alonso earned gold in the 50 freestyle event,

Page 12 | February 2024

silver in the 100 freestyle and 50 backstroke and bronze in the 100 backstroke. Talbot won silver in the 100-butterfly, captured two relay bronzes and finished in fifth place in the 100-backstroke. In Utah high school swimming, Alonso has risen from 99th overall to 16th in just three years. Talbot isn’t far behind her teammate and longtime friend at No. 31, either. Over the past nine months on the club level, Alonso has shown she’s capable of racing even faster than her district meet scores have demonstrated. So has Talbot, who like Alonso has also been on the Wasatch Front Fish Market since the age of 11. At the recently completed Utah Senior Championship at Utah Tech University November 30- December 2, Alonso was 10th overall yet finished her 50-freestyle race in a time of 24.79 seconds. The Cottonwood junior also touched the finish in a time of 54.96 in the 100 free. Alonso wrapped up her action in St. George in early December by finishing in the top 8 in the 100- backstroke in a time of 58.73 seconds. Alonso even swam the 200 free at that meet, finishing that race in 1:59. [Talbot finished fifth in the 200 butterfly, 7th in the 400 IM and 15th in the 100 fly.] For Alonso and Talbot, it seems like the lessons they’ve learned over the past seven years from Coach Lockwood and staff have taken root. The Cottonwood junior Alonso appears to be the leader for the Colts—yet is gladly following in the footsteps of Talbot, who will be off to college, soon. When White was swimming at Cottonwood and on the WSFF club team, she always had others on the Colts to look up to. Now it seems that all eyes will be on Alonso and Talbot the next two months as they look to fill those giant shoes left by Colts legends who have come before them. l

S outh Salt Lake City Journal

ON THE MOVE

South Salt Lake Newsletter

SSLC.GOV SSL ‘ON THE MOVE’ HIGHLIGHTS Your Tax Dollars at Work ...... p. 2 Utah Women in Trades Graduation .............................. p. 4 PARENTS: Early Care and Education Survey .................. p. 4 Celebrating Black History Month with Art ........................ p. 6 Apply for Celebrate SSL Mini-Grants ............................. p. 6 HTRZ: Bringing Affordable Housing to Downtown SSL ... p. 7 Join the SSL Chamber Team ....................... p. 7

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

City Ofﬁces Monday - Friday 8 am to 5 pm 801-483-6000 220 East Morris Ave SSL, UT 84115 Animal Service 801-483-6024 Building Permits 801-483-6063 Business Licensing 801-483-6063 Code Enforcement 801-464-6757 Fire Administration 801-483-6043 Justice Court 801-483-6072 Police Admin 801-412-3606 Promise 801-483-6057 Public Works 801-483-6045 Recreation 801-412-3217 Utility Billing 801-483-6074 Emergencies 911 Police/Fire Dispatch 801-840-4000

FEBRUARY 2024

New SSLPD Chief Danielle Croyle: Committed to Compassion & Community South Salt Lake is a community that thrives on strength and safety. At the heart of our city’s priorities is Public Safety, and we’ve been fortunate to have Chief Jack Carruth lead the charge for the past decade. Mayor Cherie Wood As we say goodbye, we reflect on how his thoughtful leadership and commitment to law enforcement has impacted our community. From navigating the tragic loss of fallen Officer David P. Romrell in 2018 to the unprecedented challenges brought by the COVID pandemic, Chief Carruth has always been approachable and dedicated to keeping our community safe. As we move forward, we thank you, Chief Carruth, for your unwavering service and for setting an example of how true leaders are committed to making a difference. (see ‘Thank you, SSLPD Chief Jack Carruth’ p. 3) With a career spanning 30 years in law enforcement, Danielle Croyle has taken on numerous leadership roles and capacities. As the newly appointed South Salt Lake Police Chief, Danielle has dedicated herself to improving communication with the community. In her time with the SSLPD, she has gone above and beyond to extend opportunities for public engagement, including meetings with the Chief and officers through monthly Coffee with A Cop, Business Watch, Neighborhood Watch meetings, and National Night Out held each summer. She is a frequent attendee at city and community functions, always striving to increase the visibility of the SSLPD through story sharing on various news and social media platforms. If you live or work in the South Salt Lake area, Danielle’s commitment to engagement has strengthened the

“My sincere hope is for the SSLPD to become an example of compassion and competence in how we respond, listen, and provide resources to those in need. In the coming months, I will seek to elevate our abilities as we aspire to be innovative in supporting our community. Following Chief Carruth’s years of laying a strong foundation, I will continue to strengthen our units and assist those who require our help, with the ultimate aim of being exemplary in every aspect of our work.” —SSLPD Chief Danielle Croyle

bond between the city and its residents. As the new Chief, she is committed to continuing this dialogue. Chief Croyle’s passion for her community is evident through her many years of service on boards and committees, as well as in her work in law enforcement. But what truly sets Chief Croyle apart is her genuine care for individuals in the community. She listens and interacts with the public, to make a positive impact on their lives. Her past positions include serving as the Administrative Officer for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (Salt Lake Field Office), and as a retired captain of the Ogden City Police Department after 25 years of service. Chief Croyle is passionate about communitypolice partnerships and has a strong focus on family and individual safety issues, such as child abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. She is an advocate for legislation and programs that protect the most vulnerable. When asked to name her favorite color in a recent City Council meeting, she said, “The reason purple is so significant to me is that it promotes awareness of domestic violence, as much needs to be done.” In her time off duty, Danielle and her husband Bob have four children and five grandchildren. Her love for life is contagious; whether skiing, hiking, rafting, or spending time with her family, she always finds joy in the little things. As your Mayor, my commitment to this community is unwavering. This change will signal a new era for the South Salt Lake Police Department with new leadership, new ideas, and new approaches. I am confident that Chief Danielle Croyle will serve the city with distinction to ensure that South Salt Lake remains a great place to live, work, and play.

“Ms. Croyle is extremely well-qualified for this position. She has leadership experience with one of the largest police departments in the State; and has proven herself to be a progressive leader within the South Salt Lake Police Department. I understand the challenges that police departments around the country are facing right now, and those challenges demand a new approach to community policing and partnering. Ms. Croyle understands the importance of creating a culture of safe, respectful, and effective community interactions.” —SSL City Council Chair, Sharla Bynum

City News Public Meetings

For more info: www.sslc.gov

City Council Wed, Feb 7, 7 p.m. Wed, Feb 28, 7 p.m.

Planning Commission Thu, Feb 1, 7 p.m. Thu, Feb 15, 7 p.m.

City Council Members Find out more about who your City Council representative is by visiting sslc.gov. LeAnne Huff, District 1 lhuff@sslc.gov Corey Thomas, District 2 cthomas@sslc.gov Sharla Bynum, District 3 sbynum@sslc.gov Nick Mitchell, District 4 nmitchell@sslc.gov Paul Sanchez, District 5 psanchez@sslc.gov Natalie Pinkney, At-Large npinkney@sslc.gov Clarissa Williams, At-Large cwilliams@sslc.gov

Holiday Closure SSL Ofﬁces and Community Centers will be closed on Monday, February 19 in observance of President’s Day.

Follow the Rules of Snow Removal

WE NEED YOUR HELP. Take the Lead & Copper Survey to determine your water service line material and complete our quick online survey.

Your Tax Dollars at Work Much of the city’s water system (culinary, waste, and storm water) is operating on pipes and culverts over 50 years old. City leaders continue to make infrastructure upgrades a main priority–the signiﬁcant type of upgrades that carry the city into the next 50 years. Several big projects were accomplished last year, with 2024 on track to be another busy year. • More than 6,000 feet of new sewer lines were installed in two projects, one along 300 East in the Central Park neighborhood and along West Temple in the Downtown SSL neighborhood. • 1,610 feet of drinking water main was replaced and upgraded from 4” pipe to 10” pipe along 200 East. • 13 new ﬁre hydrants were installed, replacing old and outdated hydrants.

• Remove snow and ice from sidewalks in front of homes, buildings and parking lots. • Remove snow the same day it falls or by 10 a.m. the next day if snow falls into late evening. • Do not shovel snow onto roads, shovel it away from the road and onto your property when clearing driveways and sidewalks. • To avoid snow buildup in front of your driveway, give snowplows room to operate. Clear the curbside area on the left side of your driveway for the plow to unload their snow. Avoid parking on any city street from 2 to 6 a.m.

• 18 water main breaks were ﬁxed, including patches and pipe replacements.

South Salt Lake City Council Action Report Summary

Full agendas, minutes, handouts, and video recorded meetings available at: www.sslc.gov/160/City-Council Date Agenda Item

Subject

Action

Next Step

No other nominations received two votes.

No further action necessary

Working Meeting 1/10 2024 Council Chair Nomination

Council Member Bynum to be the 2024 Council Chair. Council Member Thomas to be the 2024 Council Vice Chair. Regular Meeting

1/10 Appointment by the Mayor: Danielle Croyle, Police Chief

Mayor Wood presented Danielle Croyle to the Council for advice and consent. The matter was approved by a majority vote of the Council.

Approved

No further action necessary

1/10 Unfinished Business – Resolution

A Resolution of the SSL City Council Appointing a New Trustee to the Board of Downtown East Streetcar Sewer Public Infrastructure District.

Approved

No further action necessary

Public Safety Thank you, SSLPD Chief Jack Carruth Chief Jack Carruth has served honorably and admirably as the South Salt Lake Police Chief for 10 years and has played an instrumental role in much of the success we’ve achieved and been recognized for in South Salt Lake. Over the past

The 2023 South Salt Lake Changemaker Award was given to SSLPD Chief Jack Carruth. As the SSLPD Chief for 10 years and serving 20 years prior as an SSLPD Officer (30 years total), he is best known for seeking solutions through collaboration, innovation, and compassion. He will be missed!

decade, he has led the SSLPD team with distinction and through unprecedented challenges: the opening of the Pamela Atkinson Resource Center (PARC), taking on the weight of the first line of duty death in the Police Department, and dealing with the competitive recruiting and retention realities which have been impacting police departments nationwide to name a few. Chief Carruth met all these challenges with educated and compassionate strategies, and our community is all the better for it. When the Pamela Atkinson Resource Center opened in 2019, Chief Carruth took the lead by working with our State Legislature and assisting in securing funding for the creation of our now well-established Homeless Resource Officer (HRO) team. Our HRO team mitigates the issues and helps meet the specific needs of those in the homeless community and this compassionate approach has brought our city much recognition as a standard for others to follow. In 2021, he oversaw the implementation of South Salt Lake’s first Civilian Review Board (CRB) which added another level of transparency and public oversight for our community. After its first year, the CRB report to the City Council indicated that the SSLPD met policy in all its reviewed cases. Most poignantly, Chief Carruth kept his team rock solid during the excruciating experience of losing an on-duty Officer, David P. Romrell in 2018. As the Police Department Building is now named in his honor, fallen Officer Romrell’s locker is kept, every November his death is commemorated with a public candlelight vigil and flag ceremony. Anyone who has heard Chief Carruth present in a City Council meeting, or at a public event, or has ever been in contact with him, knows and can witness to the fact that Jack Carruth is a person of high integrity, honor, and compassion. Our sincere thanks to him, his wife, and his family for his 30 years of service. Chief Carruth, we wish you all the best in your future endeavors. No doubt, you will continue to accomplish great things and influence others for good.

Coffee with a Cop Feb 7, 9-10 a.m. In-Person Délice Bakery & Café 2747 S State Street

Neighborhood Watch Feb 1, 7 p.m.

Go to sslc.gov for the virtual link

Thank you, SSLFD Deputy Chief Rodger Hoffmann In January, Deputy Chief Rodger Hoffmann bid farewell to the South Salt Lake Fire Department, marking the end of an illustrious career filled with compassion, mentorship, and unwavering dedication. Throughout his 28 ½ years of service, Deputy Chief Hoffmann’s non-judgmental attitude and caring nature set a powerful example within the department. His commitment to teaching and mentoring, both in firefighting skills and life lessons, instilled a sense of camaraderie among the team. Under his guidance, the South Salt Lake Fire Department became a cohesive and supportive family. His adaptability and commitment to staying abreast of industry advancements contributed significantly to the department’s success in effectively handling emergencies and ensuring community safety. The department and the community it serves extend heartfelt appreciation to Deputy Chief Rodger Hoffmann for his exceptional service and wish him a well-deserved and fulfilling retirement, knowing that his legacy will undoubtedly endure as an inspiration for current and future generations of firefighters.

Civilian Review Board Mon, Feb 5, 6:30 p.m.

The public is encouraged to attend in-person at City Hall in the Council Chamber, or through a virtual link at www.sslc.gov.

Volunteer at the Pamela Atkinson Resource Center

Message from SSLFD Chief Terry Addison

Want to get involved, donate, or ﬁnd out more? Let’s point you toward TheRoadHome.org to volunteer!

SSL Community Centers Utah Women in Trades Graduation: The Co-Op

2530 S 500 East 801-412-3217

2797 S 200 East 801-386-4949

Salt Lake County has seen rapid growth within the valley bringing a demand for skilled laborers. To meet this increased demand, the state of Utah is dedicated to recruiting a more diverse workforce. This includes doing strategic outreach to female populations. The Utah Women in Trades program actively supports the common goal of improving women’s livable wages, employment opportunities, fostering equality, and celebrating women’s hardfought accomplishments in the skilled, non-traditional trade fields. The Promise SSL Co-Op is proud to have collaborated with the Utah Women in Trades program and their first cohort of soon-to-be apprentices by providing meeting space and access to additional development and wraparound resources. The first Utah Women in Trades pre-apprentice program hosted their graduation at the Promise SSL Co-Op recently. These five women were committed to learning about the trades and developing new skill sets that will enable them to achieve upward mobility. Attendees were all eager to cheer on this cohort of women as they begin the next phase of their journey. The next cohort of soon-to-be women apprentices is now taking applications. For more information about the Women in Trades program please visit the following link: www.utahwomenintrades.org

Salt Lake County Senior Center

EVENTS FOR FEBRUARY 2024 Special Meal:

Birthday Special – Tues, Feb 6 Valentine Day Special – Weds, Feb 14 Live Entertainment Deci ‘Bells – Fri, Feb 9 at 10:30 am Hula Dancing – Weds, Feb 14 at 10:30 am

Presentation – Neuropathy Friday, Feb 16 at 10:30 am

Craft Day with Vickie: Doily Stenciled Tote Bag Thurs, Feb 8 at 10:30 am

Mat Yoga: Wednesdays at 2:30 pm Chair Yoga: Fridays at 1:00 pm Vital Aging: Monthly group Wellness Discussions

with a licensed therapist Weds, Feb 21 at 10:30 am Call 801-539-7069 to make a one-on-one appointment.

Living Well with Chronic Pain Workshop

Thurs, Feb 15 – Mar 21 from 12:30 – 3:00 pm Living Well with Chronic Pain Program is a workshop that meets for two and a half hours, once a week, for six weeks. Participants learn self-management techniques and skills needed in the day-to-day management of their chronic pain condition.

Peanut Auction: Thurs, March 7, at 10:30 am Senior Ball: Fri, March 8, 3:00 – 5:00 pm 3280 S 540 East 801-803-3632

SSL Community Center • 2531 S 400 East 385-468-3340 • Hours: 8:30 am – 4 pm

What is Promise South Salt Lake?

We know we may have some new community members and some who may not know about Promise South Salt Lake or realize the scope of the work that we do so we’d like to take a chance to reintroduce ourselves. Promise South Salt Lake is a unique department of the City that provides dynamic youth and community programming in 14 programs at 12 locations. It is our commitment to allow all youth and families in our community to succeed in life. The Promise South Salt Lake initiative helps us deliver on three promises to our community which represent our highest hopes for SSL residents: 1. 2. 3.

Youth Programs: Our youth programs are what we are best known for. We put a speciﬁc emphasis on our youngest residents, providing a city-wide system of afterschool that ensures our youth receive high-quality services across all of our programs year-round. Each day includes snack and dinner services, homework help or tutoring, and enrichment activities or clubs which can include; prevention programming, art, dance, STEM, recreation, cooking, service learning, music, photography, chess, robotics, college and career prep, and more!

Every child has the opportunity to attend and to graduate from college. Every resident has a safe, clean home and neighborhood. Everyone has the opportunity to be healthy and to prosper.

We know these are big promises, but we want everyone to see themselves as part of this vision. Our work is separated into two categories - youth programs and family and community programs.

Did you stop by to create with us during Mural Fest? Promise SSL works to build individual and community capacity by increasing knowledge and self-sufficiency through a range of activities. Look out for us year-round at city-hosted events such as the Mural Fest, National Night Out, and Craftoberfest.

Congratulations on 15 Years, Domoina Kendell!

Family and Community Programs: Family and community engagement programs are an essential element to achieving long-term, sustainable, and improved outcomes, processes, relationships, discourse, decision-making, and implementation. We work to build individual and community capacity by increasing knowledge and self-sufﬁciency through a range of activities such as outreach, community events, community education, resource navigation, and service referrals. We couldn’t do all of this without the strong continued partnerships and support from our local schools, businesses, and community. Learn more and stay up to date by following us on social media @PromiseSSL or visiting sslc.gov.

Promise South Salt Lake is celebrating Domoina Kendell’s 15 years of service. Starting with the City in 2009, Domoina’s first role in the work was developing and growing the Hser Ner Moo program. Her work was integral to how Promise SSL continued to grow as a department helping to oversee expansion from 2 program sites to 14 program sites. In her current role as a Promise Deputy Director, she oversees grant management and operations staff. Her attention to detail and commitment to excellence in financial reporting keeps our daily operations running efficiently. Domoina has always prided herself on the relationships she built with the community she served as well as staff and volunteers in the department. Our department feels lucky to work alongside Domoina and continue to learn from her leadership as we work to keep our Promises to SSL.

Community Happenings Celebrate SSL 2024 Mini-Grant Program: Apply Today! To learn more and register for Community Art Classes, visit SSLArts.org or call 801-483-6018. Create an account at sslc.gov and opt-in to receive our monthly SSL Arts Council E-Newsletter.

ART55+ Creative Arts for Seniors

Instructor Laura Sharp Wilson Every Wednesday 10:00-11:30 AM SSL Community Center 2531 S 400 East FREE!

Art Classes for February & March

Exploring Collage with Sue Martin - Tues, Feb 6- 27 Kintsugi Healing Group with Michelle Markay Nelson Tues, Feb 6 - 27 Mindful Photo with Danielle Waters - Mon, Feb 26 Beginning Fiddle Jam Mon, Feb 12 Beginning Classical Guitar ages 55+ Weds, Feb 28 - April 19 Exploring Collage II with Sue Martin - Tues, March 5 - 26, 1 pm to 3 pm Exploring Acrylic Painting Styles with Robin Luker Thurs, Feb 29 - March 21, 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm Mindful Photo with Danielle Waters - Mon, March 18, 6:30 am to 8:30 pm NEW! Fiddle Jam Mon, March 11, 6:30 to 8:30 pm Zentangle Club March 25, 6:30 - 8:30 pm

Are you a South Salt Lake creative with big ideas? Do you dream of bringing your artistic vision to life in your community? Look no further than the South Salt Lake Arts Council’s Celebrate South Salt Lake mini-grant program! This program is open to everyone with a non-commercial purpose and a passion for bringing art to our community. Your artistic dream, whether solo or shared, could receive up to $1000 in support. The South Salt Lake Arts Council believes that art unites and we want to empower diverse voices and celebrate the magic you bring to South Salt Lake. Apply today as the deadline is February 23, 2024, and awards will be announced on March 4, 2024. For more details and to submit your application, visit www.sslarts.org. Don’t forget to share this news with others and spread the Celebration!

Community Development HTRZ to Bring Affordable Housing and Community Amenities to Downtown SSL South Salt Lake successfully applied for Housing and Transit Reinvestment Zone (HTRZ) funding with unanimous approval by the full committee during a December 20, 2023, meeting at the PDQ.com building in Downtown SSL. HTRZ funds will have a tremendous impact on the future development of Downtown SSL, as a projected $184 million in incremental tax revenue over the next several years will be directed to the City. The overall intent of HTRZ is to provide funding tools that help city governments and communities guide development that adds affordable housing around public transportation hubs. Current and near-future development projects will add an estimated 5,000 residential units to Downtown SSL within the next 5-10 years, with another 5,000 in the following 10 years. As part of the HTRZ application, SSL has committed to working with developers to ensure at least 12.5% of new residential development is available as affordable housing to residents at or below 80% AMI (Annual Median Income). An 80% AMI Household is one whose aggregate gross income equals 80% or less of the AMI in an area, as adjusted for family size. While this may seem low, it is higher than any other HTRZ-approved project. This is notable considering SSL was exempt from including affordable housing in the application because the HTRZ state code exempts lower-income areas, such as SSL. In addition to housing, these funds will also be used for constructing community spaces, adding and enhancing pedestrian and bike paths, transit connectors, and

beautifying streetscape projects (and adding trees!). We are excited for the future of Downtown SSL. Realizing its full potential will take an investment in money, time, planning, and deliberate strategy for the success of this long game. Updates will be plentiful in the weeks, months, and years to come, and we look forward to watching this growth together!

SOUTH SALT LAKE CHAMBER CORNER Join the Team: Become an SSL Chamber Ambassador or Women in Business Member

Women in Business Leadership Committee

To connect with the SSL Chamber, email: tereza@sslchamber.com

The South Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce is currently recruiting Chamber Ambassadors and SSL Chamber Women in Business to join the team. Chamber Ambassadors play a crucial role as a vital extension of the chamber, driving change in the city and fostering relationships. They serve as highly visible advocates and are frequently the ﬁrst point of contact for members and South Salt Lake businesses. If you are interested in being a Chamber Ambassador, email Tereza Bagdasarova, SSL Chamber Managing Director, at tereza@ sslchamber.com.

The Chamber Women in Business (WIB) leadership committee is devoted to creating an environment that actively promotes the advancement of women in diverse ﬁelds. WIB is introducing exciting new initiatives and opportunities for networking, and knowledge-sharing to contribute to women’s professional growth and success in our community. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and actively contribute to South Salt Lake’s community of women professionals. Interested? Apply online at sslchamber.com.

Cottonwood student’s quick instincts helped put out a fire to save school By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

t was Thursday, Dec. 7, about two weeks before winter break, and 30 minutes before the bell would ring to mark the end of the school day. Cottonwood High senior Elliot Payne and a group of his stage crew classmates were working in the Black Box Theatre on the set for the melodrama, which was to open in mid-January. “It was a normal day like any other,” he said. “I was walking to get a drill from the auditorium and heard someone yell, ‘fire,’ so I ran over. I saw the stage lights had started to burn the curtain. I told someone to lower the stage curtain and raise the lights away from the curtain. Then another dude helped me pull the curtain away. I ran to find my teacher and get the fire extinguisher to put it out. I thought it was weird that it started from the stage lights; we use them all the time, and it never happens.” Payne returned with the fire extinguisher and theater director Adam Wilkins. “Adam slid me a chair. I got on it and pulled the pin on the fire extinguisher, then put the fire out,” said the 5-foot 11-inch student who said the retardant shot about 6 feet onto the curtain. “I’m good in crisis situations. I probably learned that from being in Boy Scouts. I saw the fire, I put it out. It’s a simple duty.” 50+ Years of Experience

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Cottonwood High senior Elliot Payne was recently honored at a Granite School District Board of Education for his quick assistance with a fire on the auditorium stage in December. (Photo courtesy of Granite School District.)

Wilkins alerted the school assistant principals, Ashley Snarr and Jeremy

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Brooks, the latter who was on the phone with the principal. They came, along with the substitute school resource officer, who called the fire department. Payne and Wilkins returned to the Black Box, but minutes later, they were later evacuated along with the student body. That’s because Snarr saw the curtain back on fire in the smoky auditorium. “It was circling smoke, and that’s when I noticed it was smoldering, and then, the curtain was on fire again,” she said. “So, the substitute officer quickly grabbed a ladder and put it out. About 30 seconds later, the fire department arrived along with our district maintenance crew. The stage lights are very strong, very hot. The damage was just to the curtain and a little bit of the metal rod. Our auditorium was not damaged at all, not even smoke damage.” Outside, students thought at first it might have been a fire drill, but once the fire truck arrived, reality set in, Snarr said. Payne realized he still had the drill in his hand yet and tried to lighten the mood. “I was saying puns like, ‘This isn’t a drill,’” said the recent Eagle Scout, who not only was the stage crew shop foreman for “The Little Mermaid” production but also is on the football and track teams and sings in the choir. Within minutes, the student body returned to their classrooms. Students in classes near the auditorium were moved to the opposite side of the school to prevent

any smoke inhalation, Snarr said. That night, the Granite (School District) Youth Symphony was set to perform on stage, but the concert was rescheduled. It was the only postponement on the auditorium schedule, she said. “It was under control quickly,” Snarr said. “We have wonderful teachers and staff, and our drills have prepared us for these situations, but Elliot deserves a lot of credit. He was very calm. He saved our school.” Payne recently was honored at the Granite Board of Education with a plaque from the school board and a pendant from the fire department. “I was told by the [Murray City] fire marshal that if we didn’t stop the fire, then it would have been millions in property damage, and the whole school would have been gone because it would have reached another higher curtain, and it would have kept burning since our auditorium is so high,” he said. “I gave a shout out to my family who was there and my Scout leaders who trained me for emergency preparedness.” Payne, who is looking to pursue musical theater and emergency management in-state next fall, wants to both perform on stage and go into fire safety. “My first words as a kid were ‘firefighters help people,’” said the Holladay teenager. “Now, I have a cool story about saving the school.” l

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At the Winter Extravaganza, Cottonwood High students fill their bags with needed items and gifts for the family. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Winter Extravaganza provides Cottonwood students with needed items, gifts By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

t was mid-December when Cottonwood High junior Tabarak Aalibrahim was looking through lunchroom tables filled with books, coats, games, quilts, candles, hats, sports balls, puzzles, holiday decorations, crafts and toys— hoping to find Barbies for her 4-year-old sister. She already had gotten some hair accessories for her 9-year-old sister. “I’ve been looking forward to this; I want to get them some presents,” said the student, who was born in Iraq. Student Rose Babala also was looking for her younger sisters, ages 1, 2 and 3. She had picked up socks and shoes as well as some books and toys. “All this reminds me of being together with my family; there are six of us and my mom,” said the high school junior who moved from Congo five years ago. They were just two of the hundreds of Cottonwood students who stood in line to for the items that were donated by neighbors, local church congregations and others. It was the third year of the extravaganza that has provided items for Cottonwood students and often for their families, said Robyn Ivins, who founded the food pantry seven years ago and continues to organize it with other volunteers. She also has been instrumental in establishing Cottonwood’s teen center, which opened this fall to provide resources to students. “It came about when a few people in the community who donated to our food pantry reached out to us and asked if these kids had enough for Christmas,” Ivins said. “So, we started collecting and giving a few items to kids through the pantry.” That distribution grew in 2021, the 20th anniversary of 9-11, when students performed a day of service. “We did a big day of service with some surrounding congregations and community

S outh SaltLakeJournal .com

members and a big interfaith project to collect items. It just caught on and somebody started calling it the Christmas Extravaganza—and it has just grown from there,” she said, saying it’s now known as the Winter Extravaganza. Donors come days before the extravaganza to drop off items for the students’ free “shopping spree.” “We had 18,000 fliers that went out to the community this year, and hundreds of people dropped off items,” Ivins said. “Then, we had people donate their time to help organize and set out all the donations.” In 2022, 755 Cottonwood High students, about half the student body, took advantage of the extravaganza. This year, Ivins purchased oversized IKEA shopping bags for 1,000 students. Some of the popular items, such as balls and games, are limited to one per student to stretch them out to as many students as possible. Ivins has seen some students “shopping” who take advantage of the food pantry every week. “We basically serve 300 kids per week,” she said. “Very few of these students take much for themselves. We do give students a Cottonwood-branded sweatshirt so that’s usually the one thing they get for themselves. The toys are usually the first thing that goes because they’re choosing things for their siblings. So far this year, we’re doing OK on the hats and candy, and some books; we had a lady donated 300 copies.” Ivins was answering questions between ensuring the tables were stocked on what she calls, “the funnest day of the year.” “It’s great to see kids happy for the holidays,” she said. “My main motivation is to get even more donations and more people to help so we can provide Christmas for even more students’ families that otherwise wouldn’t have much.” l

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Cottonwood Chaparrals drill finish outside qualifying for state, showed promise By Brian Shaw | b.shaw@mycityjournals.com

hen head coach Jill Mireles took over the reins of the Cottonwood High School drill team early last summer, she knew it would take a lot of work to get the program back to where it once was. The first item was to arrange a car wash fundraiser—mission accomplished. The next was for Coach Mireles—who is not a CHS alum—to get a feel for her new team. So, she brought in a member of the Utah Jazz Dancers to help during a fun clinic.

Then, the new coach came up with a new credo: “Limit-less,” a reminder that we can control only what we can control—to coin the phrase. “We are removing the limits we place on ourselves,” Mireles said. “There is a lot of comparison in the dance world, so we are challenging our team to push away from the negativity, stand tall in unity and allow positivity to lead us to success.” With that plan in place, the Chaparrals set out to see what they could do at

several drill team competitions. The first was at the Excalibur Classic at Murray High School Dec. 9, 2023; CHS finished seventh overall. The second competition came at the Showcase at UVU Dec. 16 where Cottonwood also finished in seventh position. To wrap up what is a very short regular season in drill [it only runs December-February], Mireles’ squad competed at the Davis Valley Classic Jan. 6 where they had their best overall performance of

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the three, finishing in sixth place. It also marked the Chaparrals’ best finish in three disciplines [dance, show and overall] this season. A few days after the Chaparrals’ best of their first three performances under the new head coach came the first Utah High School Athletics and Activities Association RPI rankings of the season on Jan. 9: No. 16. Not bad for a Cottonwood program that was on the brink of failing at one point, and a sight better than several other schools fared in 4A at certain points during the season. Not only that, Cottonwood had three girls qualify for and compete at All-State auditions back in early November: Talyn Rohovit, Aria Larsen and Ali Christensen. After that, the whole team enjoyed Thanksgiving together on Nov. 22. So, for the Chaparrals who dropped two spots to No. 18 in the Jan. 16 RPI rankings release and eventually tumbled out of the final 4A RPI rankings, they truly did save their best for last, they have a ton to be thankful for and they look forward to next year. l

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Coming up for air

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

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

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

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