June 2021 | Vol. 7 Iss. 06
FREE
HIGHLAND HIGH NATIVE METCALF RETURNS HOME TO THE UTAH GRIZZLIES By Greg James | g.james@mycityjournals.com
M
etcalf is a household name amongst Utah hockey fans. Garrett Metcalf has made the Utah Grizzlies his first stop in what he hopes is a long professional career. “I was like two or three when I started skating,” Metcalf said. “Then I think my first organized games came when I was five or six. I started playing in the Salt Lake County lightning program until I was about 14 years old.” His father Steve played on the Highland High School team and by his own admission was not very good so he turned his love of the game into more than 25 years of hockey refereeing. Many remember him as someone who gave his all to hockey. “Steve trained me as an official,” current ECHL linesman Jim Mckenna said. “He was the top guy in the IHL (International Hockey League). I asked him for pointers and he was always willing to give, anything he did, he did with a love for hockey. He was willing to give back.” Metcalf recalled memories of his dad refereeing. “My brother and I grew up going to the games with our dad and I spent many years at the Maverik Center. It has now come full circle and for me to play my first year of pro hockey there is pretty special,” Metcalf said. His hockey career started at home, on the driveway. “We had a net and my brother started taping pillows to my legs and gave me a helmet and glove. He told me to stand in front of the net,” he said. “One time in Phoenix I ran across some equipment in a store. I begged my dad to buy them. I knew he would not pay full price, but it was on clearance. I told him they were on sale. He called my mom and they knew that I was never going back.” He has logged lots of years on the ice to get to this point in his career. “I spent a lot of summers early at the rink. My dad and I would get out to the oval (Kearns Olympic Oval). I would be on the ice at 4:45 in the morning before school. I did that multiple times a month. I had the support of my parents to get me there and they took me all across the country. I have been very blessed,” Metcalf said. “Steve trained me as an official,” current ECHL linesman Jim Mckenna said. “He was Garrett Metcalf started skating at two and played his first organized hockey games when he was five or Continued page 11
six. (Photo courtesy of Robert Church/Utah Grizzlies)
Tree Trimming & remOval • Stump Grinding • 24/7 Emergency Services • Powerline Trimming • Land Clearing • Demolition Options Available • Organic Mulch Products • Delivery Available
Mention this ad for
% OFF 10 Tree Services
Now HiriNg!
$35-$80K+
Full benefits & bonuses! Call 801-262-1596 or email Trent@diamondtreeexperts.com
Expires 6/30/2021
Contact us today at
Local Postal Customer ECRWSS Scan Here: Interactive online edition with more photos.
801-938-4345
DiamondTreeExperts.com
Thank You to our Community Sponsors for supporting City Journals
Presort Std U.S. Postage PAID Ogden, UT Permit #190
We’re Family | Starting at $1,400!* Call today to learn more! As part of a fifth-generation family company, we believe it’s never been more important for seniors to love the communities they call home. We are committed to doing everything possible to achieve just that. (385) 354-6959 • chateaubrickyardseniorliving.com 3080 S Richmond St, Salt Lake City, UT 84106
*Based on availability. Call for details.
Independent Living
START BUILDING YOUR FUTURE TODAY
Scan the QR code with your smartphone to apply
Apply now at
candrmanagement.com Flexible hours
Vacation pay
Tuition assistance
Growth opportunities
Page 2 | June 2021
Start at 12 - 14/hr Sugar House City Journal
JOINT PAIN CAN MAKE EVEN THE SIMPLEST THINGS DIFFICULT. WE MAKE TREATING IT EASY. Our acclaimed orthopedics unit offers highly trained physicians and staff members specializing in joint replacement surgery. Plus, our Center for Precision Joint Replacement is a leader in advanced surgical technologies. Let us help you get back to a life without pain or discomfort. Make an appointment at saltlakeregional.org/Orthopedics or call 801-533-2002.
In Partnership with Physician Owners.
MyS ugar HouseJournal .com
June 2021| Page 3
Crestwood in Cottonwood Heights is one of nine Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation outdoor pools that opened Memorial Day weekend. (Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation)
Dive into summer fun at Salt Lake County outdoor pools By Heather Lawrence | h.lawrence@mycityjournals.com
I
f you needed another sign that things were returning to normal, here’s a good one: the Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation outdoor pools opened Memorial Day weekend! The pools are scattered throughout the county and will stay open through the summer. The county advises patrons to check their website at www.slco.org for updates on COVID restrictions including mask requirements. In general, those who are fully vaccinated do not need to wear masks.
Journals T H E
Most of the pools have fun features like lap lanes, leisure areas, zero-depth entry, ADA accessibility, kids play areas, diving boards, sunbathing areas or slides. All have lifeguards on duty during operating hours. Opening hours, times and prices differ slightly for each location, so it’s wise to call ahead. And for an extra fun and exclusive event, many of the pools are available after hours to rent for private parties.
• Crestwood Pool 1700 E. Siesta Dr. (7485 S.) 385-468-1683 • Draper Pool 657 E. Vestry Road 385-468-1995 • Liberty Park Pool 900 S. 650 East 385-468-1564 • Magna Pool
C I T Y
Y O U R C O M M U N I T Y N E W S PA P E R S
SUGAR HOUSE TEAM
The Sugar House City Journal is a monthly publication distributed directly to residents via the USPS as well as locations throughout Sugar House. For information about distribution please email brad.c@thecityjournals.com or call our offices. Rack locations are also available on our website. 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. © 2019 Loyal Perch Media, Inc.
Page 4 | June 2021
MYSUGARHOUSE JOURNAL.COM
FACEBOOK.COM/ SUGARHOUSE JOURNAL/
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Bryan Scott | bryan.s@thecityjournals.com
EDITOR
Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com
DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING
Ryan Casper | ryan.c@thecityjournals.com 801-254-5974
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Jen Deveraux | jen.d@thecityjournals.com Mieka Sawatzki | mieka.s@thecityjournals.com
TWITTER.COM/ SUGARHOUSEJRNL
POOLS IN YOUR AREA 3270 S. 8400 West 385-468-1826 • Redwood Pool 3060 S. Lester St. (3100 S. Redwood Road) 385-468-1870 • SLC Sports Complex Pool 645 S. Guardsman Way 385-468-1925
Connect social media
CIRCULATION COORDINATOR
Brad Casper | brad.c@thecityjournals.com 801-254-5974 | Rack locations are also available on our website.
EDITORIAL & AD DESIGN Ty Gorton Amanda Luker Wayland Holfeltz Stacy Bronson
• South County Pool 12765 S. 1125 West 385-468-1362 • Taylorsville Pool 4914 S. 2700 West 385-468-1740 • West Jordan Pool 8125 S. 2200 West 385-468.1941
INSTAGRAM.COM/ CITYJOURNALS
LINKEDIN.COM/ COMPANY/ CITY-JOURNALS
MISSION STATEMENT
Our mission is to inform and entertain our community while promoting a strong local economy via relevant content presented across a synergetic network of print and digital media.
PUBLISHER
Designed, Published, & Distributed by
SUGAR HOUSE CITY JOURNAL 9500 South 500 West, Suite 205 Sandy, UT 84070
PHONE: 801-254-5974
FREE | COMMUNITY | PAPERS
Sugar House City Journal
ing v r e S Now ay
rd u t a S h! c n u Br
! d r a y k c i r B t a h c n u r B
Join us for
Saturday & Sunday starting at 10 AM
25% OFF ANY ONE FOOD ITEM BETWEEN 10:00AM -3:00PM Sat. & Sun. Only
Not valid with other offers. Expires 7/15/21.
3000 S. Highland Drive MillCreek, UT
801-883-9845 • TheBrickyardBar.com
we are
YEARS
LIVING 35 TRADITIONS festival Celebrating 35 years of Utah’s diverse cultural landscape through dance, music, craft, and culinary arts.
SATURDAY, JUNE 26 / 12-9 PM / FREE ADMISSION Taste of Living Traditions / Washington Square
LIVINGTRADITIONSFESTIVAL.COM THANK YOU TO OUR PRESENTING SPONSORS
MyS ugar HouseJournal .com
June 2021| Page 5
Salt Lake County marks 75 years of Parks and Recreation with tree planting By Lindsey Baxter | l.baxter@mycityjournals.com
N
2021 EVENING S ERIES Amphitheater Parking: 495 East 5300 South Ticket Info: 801-264-2614 or www.murray.utah.gov June 4 ................................. Les Miserables, Movie Sing-Along June 5 ................................................... Murray Concert Band June 17-19, 21-23 ........................ Disney's The Little Mermaid June 26 ...................................................... Murray Symphony
LUNCH CONCERT SERIES * Tuesday at Noon in Murray Park Pavilion #5, FREE June 1 - BD Howes ...................................................... Acoustic June 8 - Vaudeville Nouveau ................................... 50's - 80's June 15 - Wasatch Jazz Syndicate ........................ Jazz Quartet June 22 - Riding Gravity .............................. Surf & Rockability
eighbors, elected officials, and community members joined together on a sunny day to kickoff a summer-long celebration at Evergreen Park May 14. Mayor of Salt Lake County, Jenny Wilson recognized Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation’s 75th birthday. Evergreen Park was chosen because it was the first in what is now over 100 park spaces across the valley managed by Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation. The acquisition of Evergreen Park 75 years ago on May 11, 1946 launched what has now grown into one of the largest parks, trails, recreation, and open space management organizations in the region. Evergreen Park, located at 2230 E. 3425 South, is a beloved jewel of the community that had many members in attendance reminiscing about their childhoods. Wilson had fond memories of playing at Evergreen Park. She said, “I think the 75-year history of Parks and Recreation is to be noted. I have a particular love of this park because I remembered it from my childhood. I mentioned the pumpkin Cinderella-esque playground round item, and I remember when we came in here to update the park with the building of the community rec center, there was a lot of love for this park but also for that sculpture.” Jeff Silvestrini, mayor of Millcreek, said, “The pumpkin is really beautiful, and it has a lot of memories for people that grew up in this park like Mayor Wilson, and for our kids who still play on it.” Amy May, executive director of Tree Utah, explained that
LIBRARY SUMMER SHORTS * Wednesday at 1 PM in Murray Park Pavilion #5, FREE
June 2 ............................................. Magic Show, Paul Brewer June 9 ........................................... Scales & Tails Animal Show June 16 ................................................................ Mad Science June 23 .......................................... DJ Juggling & Magic Show June 30 ......................................... Woody & Jessie, Characters
CHILDREN MATINEE SERIES
Mayor of Salt Lake County Jenny Wilson, Amy May, the executive director of Tree Utah, and Millcreek Mayor Jeff Silvestrini at the 75th birthday celebration of Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation. (Lindsey Baxter/City Journals)
* Thursday at 2 p.m. in Murray Park Pavilion #5, FREE
June 3 - Just Jumpin' .............................................. Jump Rope June 10 - Spiderman ...................................... Karate & Photos June 17 - Ballet Folklorico ................................... Las Americas June 24 - Ballet Center Utah, Inc .......................... Ballet Dance
FAMILY NIGHT S ERI ES Bring the Whole Family Young and Old! The 2nd Monday of every month at 7 p.m., FREE Murray Senior Recreation Center (#10 E 6150 S – 1/2 block west of State) June 14 – Pick'ee Out the Stingers .................. Bluegrass Music
STOP IN FOR STORIES * Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday at 11 a.m. in Murray Park White Gazebo, FREE Murray City Library sponsored Storytelling * Location may change This program has received funding support from residents of Salt Lake County, SL County Zoo, Arts and Parks (ZAP), Utah Division of Arts and Museums, and Museums & National Endowment for the Arts.
Page 6 | June 2021
Trees ready to be planted in Evergreen Park. (Lindsey Baxter/City Journals)
the collaboration between Ivory Homes, Tree Utah, Salt Lake County Park and Recreation, and the county started in fall 2020 after a major windstorm. May said, “Ivory homes, to help the community address the loss of numerous trees, the replanting efforts began. We also actually planted a bunch of trees with the Jordan River Commission in Millcreek on the Jordan River this spring with students from major high schools as well.” Silvestrini added, “I just think that this is a terrific public-private partnership that we have great private sponsors with Ivory and others and Tree Utah and the county. It’s really nice to see us working together on something that’s worthwhile that not only beautifies this park and replaces some of the trees that were taken by the…storm, but it helps with air quality, it helps with keeping our environment cooler, it helps with climate, it’s really important work.” May said, “I was doing a walk-thru last week and noticed there wasn’t a single evergreen in Evergreen Park, and I wanted to make sure we planted evergreens.” Silvestrini added, “It’s Evergreen Avenue, that’s where it got its name from.” Wilson said, “This is a great small park, and one of the jewels in the county park system. It’s just great to be here on the 75th anniversary in a great community, in a park that’s quite loved.” Check slco.org/parks-recreation/ for a schedule of commemorative celebrations this summer. l
Sugar House City Journal
Salt Lake School for the Performing Arts successfully hosts inaugural Collide Festival By Lizzie Walje | l.walje@mycityjournals.com
S
tudent performers and professional artists from across the Salt Lake Valley came to flex their artistic muscles May 22 at the first-ever “Collide” festival. Hosted by Salt Lake School for the Performing Arts, the festival utilized the school’s various performance spaces including their astonishing Black Box Theater. Although Salt Lake School for the Performing Arts assumed hosting duties, the school’s principal Lucas Charon explained that “The festival will have participants come from all over. It won’t just be student performers.” All things considered, the turnout was quite promising. In the coming years, the goal is for “Collide” to become an annual affair, where local artists and student performers alike can demonstrate their abilities. It is a lofty initiative for just about any group of high schoolers and their administrators. However, if anyone can do it, Charon feels confident his school can. “Our kids are involved in all kinds of community outreach programs,” Charon added. Despite Salt Lake School for the Performing Art’s relative obscurity, the school itself has the talent, drive, and professionalism to curate such an event. Nestled in the epicenter of a residential neighborhood, it might initially appear strange. Incidentally, in a previous life, the building was used as an elementary school. Not exactly filled with auditoriums and studios pivotal to art students. Nevertheless, in the 12 years since the performing arts school took control of the building, they’ve done a magnificent job at converting its spaces advantageously. “We’re not just a per- The festival has its own social media page where those interested can forming arts school. Our follow developments and future announcements. (Lizzie Walje/City students practice music, Journals) jazz, rock band, musical theater, stage design,” talent. explained Karen Keefe, the school’s attenYet fundraising remains heavy on the dance administrator. As a result, the space minds of those involved, and with events has all the requirements needed to host a like the “Collide” festival, Salt Lake high-caliber festival. School for the Performing Arts hopes to Financial challenges have affected further the community’s access to art. many in the face of the Covid-19 pandem“We intend on hosting some fundraisic. Those challenges, even as regulations ing events this summer or fall,” Lindsey lessen, could potentially threaten a festival Charon, the marketing director explained. from occurring. Even so, the show must go Charon was instrumental in successfully on, and the festival managed to secure a pulling off “Collide.” roster that reflected some of the area’s best
MyS ugar HouseJournal .com
Murray 2021
FUN DAYS SATURDAY, JULY 3rd ROTARY CLUB COMMUNITY BREAKFAST 6:30 - 10:00 am - Murray Park $6 Adults/$4 Child (12 and under) SUNRISE SERVICE 7 am - Murray Park Amphitheater Patriotic Address Sgt. First Class, Retired Layne Morris Music by Murray Concert Band CHALK ART CONTEST 6 am-2 pm 5K AND KIDS RACE Both races begin and end near Constitution Circle, Murray Park 8 am - 5 K Race, 9 am - Kids Race Ages 4-9 $20 early registration until June 18 $45 registration June 19-25 $10 for Kids Race by June 25 Register online at mcreg.com by June 25 - No day of registrations! CO-ED DOUBLES OUTDOOR VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT 8 am- 5 pm - Softball Field in Murray Park $30 per team - Adults, Youth, Parent/Child Divisions Register online at mcreg.com by July 1 - No day of registrations! PARADE 8:30 am - Begins at Fashion Place Mall - ends at Murray Park Grand Marshal, First Responders
Salt Lake School for the Performing Art’s principal, Lucas Charon, concludes the festival by thanking patrons for attending. (Lizzie Walje/City Journals)
As were the students, who helped in numerous ways to ensure the success of the inaugural festival. The festival lasted from noon till 5 p.m. hosting events on the outdoor stage, black box theater, and film auditorium. Several food trucks descended on the property to keep patrons full and comfortable. A final touch that nicely punctuated the festival, was the collaborative chalk mural. “We will have a chalk mural where those who donate can add a piece of their own art,” said Counseling Administrator and Registrar Lexie Hall. “We recommend a $5 donation.” As the festival concluded, a Billy Joel song permeated the air. The crowds had mostly dispersed, yet the energy was apparent. In future years “Collide” will continue to showcase the community’s best and brightest. With a successful first year under their belt, the sky is the limit for the grassroots festival. l
ACTIVITIES 10 am-4 pm - Car & Bike Show (behind swimming pool) 11 am-4 pm - Food Trucks & Game Booths 1 pm-2 pm - Bingo 12 pm-4 pm - Park Center Hours 12 pm-6 pm - Aquatic Center Hours ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS Near Children’s Playground 11 am-2 pm - Games: Money Scramble, Balloon Toss 11 am-2 pm - Fishing Booth, Face Painting (minimal fee) 12:00 pm - Strider Bike Race 12:30 pm - Firemen Squirt (free) DAYTIME ENTERTAINMENT Murray Park Gazebo 10:30 am - Superheroes vs. Villains Characters 11:15 am - Puppet Show "The Dinosaur Egg" 12:00 pm - Arts in the Park Musical Reviews 12:30 pm - The Flashback Brothers, Classic Rock EVENING ENTERTAINMENT Murray Park Softball Field 8:30 pm – High Society Party Band (pictured below) 10 pm – Fireworks (leave personal fireworks at home)
June 2021| Page 7
Retire Smart Learn Strategies To Help You...
1
Protect your estate from long-term care expenses while remaining in your own home
2 3
Lessen the chance that you outlive your retirement income due to inflation or taxes
4 5 6 77
Your Retirement. Your Terms.
Donate smart. Make charitable contributions (including tithing) tax efficiently Avoid being a victim of fraud, hidden fees, & other common pitfalls in retirement Navigate Utah’s housing market boom Decrease taxes on your IRA, 401(k), & social security for a more comfortable retirement
Wealth Management CPAs
Avoid the pitfalls of probate
Robert J. Beck
8
Understand why a living trust may be more effective than a regular will, & why you may need one
Kelly G. Purser
99
Understand which financial vehicles best align with your short & long-term goals
10
Invest smart. Make sense of cryptocurrency, mutual funds, stocks, bonds, & more
CPA
CPA
Complimentary Consultations: Visit WealthCPAs.com or call (801) 797-2954 No cost. No Obligation.
Advisory services are offered through Wealth Management CPAs, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor in the state of Utah. Tax services offered through Wealth Management Tax Solutions, an affiliated company. Insurance products and services offered through Wealth Management Insurance Solutions, LLC, an affiliated company. Wealth Management CPAs, LLC, Wealth Management Tax Solutions and Wealth Management Insurance Solutions, LLC are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any government agency.
Page 8 | June 2021
Sugar House City Journal
Register now for Summer Outdoor Soccer Registration Opens: May 14th, 2021. Registration Deadline: Friday, July 9th, 2021. Season Runs: July 26th, 2021 - August 19th, 2021 Where: Fairmont Park South East Soccer Field Who: Kids in Pre-School - 6th grade Cost: $55/player before deadline
WHAT IS YOUR HOME WORTH? CALL US FOR A
FREE
HOME EVALUATION Jeron & Heather DuPaix 801-897-1133 findmyhome@dupaixgroup.com www.dupaixgroup.com
Register Online at GSLClubs.org/Sports-Programs
*We are dedicated to ensuring your home is protected year round, which is why we offer a no-clog guarantee.* If your LeafGuard® gutter ever clogs, we will come out to clean at no cost to you.
The permanent, clog free gutter solution!*
• One-Piece System • Protective Overhang/Trim • ScratchGuard® Paint Finish
• Customization Options • Professional Installation`
385-300-0869 RECEIVE a $25 Lowe’s gift card with FREE in-home estimate!*
85% OFF Labor*
Does not include cost of material.
Bonus! Call during this program & receive a $200 Visa Gift Card with your LeafGuard purchase!* *Conditions and restrictions may apply. Call for details to learn more.
LeafGuard operates as LeafGuard of Utah in Utah under license number UT 11650889-5501
MyS ugar HouseJournal .com
Guaranteed not to clog for as long as you own your home, or we will clean your gutters for free! June 2021| Page 9
Does your water cooler have ICE?
Emergency Water Storage Made Simple
Ours Does!
160 Gallons Dimensions: 29”x36”x45” Large Cap For Easy Filling Stackable to Save Space FDA Food Grade Materials BPA FREE
MOST WATER COOLERS COME UP SHORT Our office coolers and ice machines employ a nine-stage purification process that cleans the water for your office far beyond the capabilities of our competitors’ equipment!
BLUE 160 GALLON
WATER STORAGE TANK retail $495
Call today to get your free home or office trial!
801-997-6164
NOW ONLY
$
370 25% OFF
MADE IN UTAH – Support Local!
385-393-1566
UTAHWATERVAULT.COM
HydrateYourOffice.com
REAL. LOCAL. SAVINGS. See how much you could save on car insurance today.
801-262-5200
1399 W 9000 S, West Jordan Saving people money on more than just car insurance.® Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Motorcycle and ATV coverages are underwritten by GEICO Indemnity Company. Homeowners, renters and condo coverages are written through non-affiliated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Inc. Boat and PWC coverages are underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2019. © 2019 GEICO
Page 10 | June 2021
Sugar House City Journal
Highland girls lacrosse finishes first year with winning record in region Photos by Travis Barton
Alessandra Natale takes the faceoff against Skyridge at home. The Rams finished the season 3-2 in its region taking the No. 6 seed in Division C.
Sophomore Amelia Santelli was one of Highland’s leading scorers on the year. The Rams finished 4-12 on the year losing to Copper Hills in the second round of the playoffs.
MyS ugar HouseJournal .com
Senior Eliza McCullough was a major contributor to the Rams team this year.
June 2021| Page 11
An ever-shifting school year ends for one student By Katy Whittingham | k.whittingham@mycityjournals.com
X
Xavier M., a fifth-grade student at Whittier Elementary, returned to in-person learning at the end of February. (Photo courtesy of Temma, Xavier’s mother)
avier M., a fifth grader at Whittier Elementary, which falls within the Salt Lake City School District, first expressed his ideal scenario for going back to school in early August 2020. He had hoped to spend a combination of time at home and in person with “maybe three days of home school and two days in school,” he said. This way he believed he could spend time with his friends but remain safe during the pandemic. Keeping up with Xavier throughout the past 10 months, his feelings and priorities have continued to change and adapt as learning options and state and district regulations have too. While many districts offered multiple learning options from the start of this school year, Salt Lake District offered only a single online option for elementary students until February. Although it wasn’t what he had originally hoped for, Xavier adapted well and appreciated the flexibility that online learning provided. Before knowing whether he could return this year, he expressed that he would be “fine either way” if factors like high COVID case counts affected the return. His class ended up with the option to return in February, and Xavier returned the last week of the month. While initially only one of his close friends returned, and
he had wait a couple more weeks for others, he said, “I absolutely loved going back. It was so great to be back with my friends and teacher.” Another curveball occurred following spring break when Xavier got sick and had to miss the first week back. Although he tested negative for COVID, his mother Temma was not comfortable sending him back to school with congestion and a cough. However, in a school year in which perks could be sometimes difficult to find, since some of his class was still remote, Xavier was able to participate in school from home. Temma said that another huge positive has been his teacher, Cathy Bigler, who teaches both the online learners and in-person students in his class. “She has about 16 children in person and 10 remote, and she’s been so great for these students during this year of uncertainty,” Temma said. Following the announcement at the end of the second week of May that masks would be lifted for the last week of school, Xavier was concerned, especially with some of his classmates being so excited about it. He was worried this could be perceived as “anti-mask.” “I told him they were probably just excited to see everyone’s faces again and
not have to deal with masks,” Temma said. Despite many local districts moving forward with the lift, Xavier’s school elected to keep the mask mandate through the end of this year. Being the oldest in this class, Xavier will also be eligible to get vaccinated in early July when he turns 12. “I’m excited that with kids getting vaccinated it will mean more chances to play and hang out more normally,” he said. “It’s been a long 14 months for children, especially only children like Xavier. He’s excited for the summer and looking forward to next year, too, but assumes they will still be wearing masks. I guess only time will tell the effect of lifting mask mandates,” Temma said. Xavier’s mom said no one could have imagined how long these restrictions would last, and has some thoughts about the future. “I think the most important thing is to try to be positive and continue to do all we can to protect ourselves and others,” she said. “And hope more people get vaccinated and get their kids vaccinated, so life can continue moving in the right direction.” l
Funeral Pre-Planning Services Gain peace of mind knowing that everything is taken care of, your way. 4 LOCATIONS ACROSS THE WASATCH FRONT Larkin Mortuary 260 East South Temple Salt Lake City, UT 84111 (801) 363-5781
Larkin Sunset Lawn 2350 East 1300 South Salt Lake City, UT 84108 (801) 582-1582
Larkin Sunset Gardens 1950 East Dimple Dell Road (10600 S.) • Sandy, UT 84092 (801) 571-2771
Larkin Mortuary Riverton 3688 West 12600 South Riverton, UT 84065 (801) 254-4850
LarkinMortuary.com Page 12 | June 2021
Sugar House City Journal
Continued from front page the top guy in the IHL (International Hockey League). I asked him for pointers and he was always willing to give, anything he did, he did with a love for hockey. He was willing to give back.” Metcalf was drafted by the National Hockey Leagues Anaheim Ducks in the sixth round of the 2015 amateur draft. “It was a special moment to be drafted. It is something I will cherish the rest of my life,” Metcalf said. His player rights are still owned by the Ducks. He is under a professional tryout contract. Those contracts are short-term deals that generally only pay per diem. After his draft rights expire in August he can actively pursue a player contract and may end up in the American Hockey League or East Coast Hockey League. He has enjoyed his time with the Grizzlies. “It is very special to be at home. I moved away from home when I was 15 and have not spent more than five days at home since then, but we are cherishing this time we all have together. I have stayed in touch with friends. It has been cool to have all of the support. At games I see familiar faces in the crowd,” Metcalf said. As a goalie he is competing for playing time with contracted players already on big league clubs. In his first two games with the Grizzlies he went 2-0, saved 94% of the shots against
him and had a sparkling 1.5 goals against average. “I got started in the driveway. We had a net and my brother started taping pillows to my legs and gave me a helmet and glove. He told me to stand in front of the net. One time in Phoenix I ran across some equipment in a store. I begged my dad to buy them. I knew he would not pay full price, but it was on clearance. I told him they were on sale. He called my mom and they knew that I was never going back,” he said. He has logged lots of years on the ice to get to this point in his career. “I spent a lot of summers early at the rink. My dad and I would get out to the oval (Kearns Olympic Oval). I would be on the ice at 4:45 in the morning before school. I did that multiple times a month. I had the support of my parents to get me there and they took me all across the country. I have been very blessed,” Metcalf said. He has learned new things playing professional hockey and playing with the Grizzlies has been difficult at times. “We have struggled to score goals, but the guys have worked hard. For my first taste of pro hockey I have seen some success from my work habits and playing with an unbelievable group that has been nothing but supportive,” he said. The Grizzlies are scheduled to close the regular season June 5-7. At press time they stand in fourth place and could be in the ECHL playoffs. l
Garrett Metcalf made his professional debut with the Utah Grizzlies. The Salt Lake native is glad he could make the Maverik Center his home for this short time. (Photo courtesy of Robert Church/Utah Grizzlies)
ROOFING Call Today for a
75% OFF LABOR
F R E E Estimate!
Timeless Protection Guaranteed
801.509.9007
Gift 25 Lowe’s Receive a $ FREE Card with stimate!* in-home e
Does Not Include Cost of Material • Longevity, durability, safety, energy efficiency, & environmentally-friendly • Architectual and design support • Life-time warranty *All participants who attend an estimated 60-90 minute -home product consultation will receive a $25 gift card. Retail value is $25. Offer sponsored by MetalMan Roofing. Limit one per household. Company procures, sells, and installs seamless gutter protection. This offer is valid for homeowners over 18 years of age. If married or involved with a life partner, both cohabitating persons must attend and complete presentation together. Participants must have a photo ID, be able to understand English, and be legally able to enter into a contract. The following persons are not eligible for this offer: employees of Company or affiliated companies or entities, their immediate family members, previous participants in a Company in-home consultation within the past 12 months and all current and former Company customers. Gift may not be extended, transferred, or substituted except that Company may substitute a gift of equal or greater value if it deems it necessary. Gift card will be mailed to the participant via first class United States Mail or e-mailed within 21 days of receipt of the promotion form. Not valid in conjunction with any other promotion or discount of any kind. Offer not sponsored or promoted by Lowe’s and is subject to change without notice prior to reservation. **MetalMan Roofing operates as MetalMan Roofing Utah in Utah under license number 12132085-5501.
MyS ugar HouseJournal .com
June 2021| Page 13
Amani, Promise or Bridges Center possible names to replace Columbus Center
I
n October 2020, Mayor Cherie Wood announced a name change for the 103-yearold Columbus Center (2530 S. 500 East). In the April 28 City Council meeting, the SSL Youth Council presented their findings and recommendation.
Background
Last October, Jevahjire France wrote a letter to the City Council asking them to consider a name change. France moved to America from Haiti in 2016 when he was 13 years old. France graduated from Cottonwood High School and is a former member of the award-winning Cottonwood High School Robotics team. France became involved in Promise South Salt Lake in the Fall of 2016. He is currently a member of the Youth City Council. In his letter, he wrote, “As a young immigrant just like many in South Salt Lake, I have always wondered if the members of the Council of this City ever question how a young immigrant or refugee feels knowing that he is frequenting a library named after an oppressor not too different from the one(s) they or their parents were fleeing from back home?” “Jevahjire’s message resonates with me as we recognize Indigenous People’s Day. I agree with many in our community and believe it is time to rethink the name of this building and how it serves our entire community,” Mayor Wood said.
Youth Council presentation
The SSL Youth Council has four members, Nava, Tu’imana, Sevara, and Jevahjire France. Their advisors are Edward Lopez (elopez@sslc.com) and Kayla Mayers (kmayers@sslc.com) from Promise SSL. “We’ve worked on this for over six months but due to time constraints, this presentation you’ll hear tonight is an extremely condensed version of the research,” Nava said. The presentation began with indigenous land acknowledgment. “We collectively acknowledge that the City of South Salt Lake is located on the traditional, ancestral, and contemporary homelands of the Shoshone, Goshute, Ute Tribes, and other Native peoples from time immemorial, and is a crossroad for Indigenous peoples,” Tu’imana said. “We recognize and continually support and advocate for the sovereignty of the Native nations in this territory and beyond. By offering this land acknowledgment, we affirm tribal sovereignty and will work to hold The City of South Salt Lake accountable to American Indian peoples and nations.” Sevara reviewed comments voiced by community members against chang-
Page 14 | June 2021
By Bill Hardesty | b.hardesty@mycityjournals.com
ing the name. Among the comments is the Columbus Center name has been around for many years. Another is we shouldn’t judge historical figures by today’s standards because we are where we are today because of the sacrifices that people made before us. The final two are we shouldn’t be forced to bend to popular movements, and we can still grow while maintaining our history and traditional precepts. “The last thing we want is to cause more division or tension in the community,” Sevara said, “After working through this process and doing some research, we continue to believe that a new name will be beneficial and can unify us even more.” The Youth Council supports a name change for two reasons. The first is there are two Columbus Centers in SSL. One Columbus Center is at 3495 South West Temple. This Columbus Center has “the sole intention of creating a world more inclusive for their children with developmental disabilities.” The second Columbus Center has city recreation facilities, two Promise SSL programs, and the Senior Center. The other reason is a belief that a new name will increase inclusion and connection. France was the last speaker. He told the City Council the estimated cost of changing the name is $10,000. He said that figure-based names are difficult because public opinion changes over time and could create tension within the community. On the other hand, a value-based name has stability and endurance. Also, such a name will create a collective vision. They presented three possible names • Amani Center, which is the Swahili word for “Peace.” • Bridges Center, inspired by the idea that bridges are used to overcome obstacles and symbolize unity • Promise Center, inspired by the three Promises representing the City’s highest hopes for SSL residents. The SSL Youth Council asked the City Council to consider the proposed names and find funds to pay for the change. “Again, we don’t want to cause more division within the community,” France said, “We truly believe after our research and work into this process that the new name will be beneficial and can unify us even more.” If you would like to provide input to this effort, you can contact the advisors or your City Council Member. Co+OP With the closure of the Salt Lake County Library Columbus Center branch, SSL has the opportunity to add additional services at the Columbus Center. The Co+Op stands for Community +
SSL Youth Council has proposed a new name for the Columbus Center. (Bill Hardesty/City Journal)
SSL Youth Council has proposed a new name for the Columbus Center. (Bill Hardesty/City Journal)
Opportunity. The center will have a strong foundation on digital access, employment help, and financial help. According to a fact sheet, it is “A place for our community to work and gather with access to the tools that can help them connect, advance, and support one another.” “We want it to have a small business and entrepreneur feel,” Sharen Hauri, director of urban design, said. “It is not a place you come to play games.”
The preliminary design has banks of computers in a Tech Lounge. The Community Room is on the opposite side that can be used for eating and collaboration. There are multiple rooms and two classrooms, with one dedicated to the Arts Council. Many of the areas will be available for rent. Currently, the project is still in the design and finance stage. The plan is to open the center next winter. l
Sugar House City Journal
Highland boys soccer returns to playoffs, falls in first round Photos by Travis Barton
DON’T PUT OFF EMERGENCY CARE. Highland takes on Cottonwood in a 4-2 victory. After years of hovering around the bottom of its region, the Highland Rams boys soccer team found itself competing once again. The Rams finished 7-7 in Region 6 finishing with the No. 17 seed. Highland found itself against Hillcrest for the third time this season, defeating the Huskies both times during the season 4-1 and 4-3. Third time was not charm however as the Rams fell 3-2 to end its season.
OUR FULL-SERVICE ER IS HERE FOR YOU At Salt Lake Regional Medical Center, we encourage you to listen to your body, eliminate the guesswork, and avoid taking chances anywhere else. Our safe and ready facility is here 24/7 to promptly diagnose and treat every emergency. Learn more at saltlakeregional.org
In Partnership with Physician Owners After falling behind, the Rams came back to beat Cottonwood 4-2.
MyS ugar HouseJournal .com
June 2021| Page 15
WGU promotes bill to support Utah adults finishing school
O
n April 26, Gov. Spencer Cox gathered with lawmakers, students, and representatives from Western Governor’s Union to sign HB 328, a bill from the most recent legislative session aimed to help adult learners finish their degrees. HB 328, or the Adult Learners Grant Program, offers financial aid to eligible students over 26 seeking to finish a degree or certificate online. Currently, there are more than 370,000 Utahns with some Postsecondary education credits but no degree or certificate. This bill focuses on removing financial barriers to allow such students to finish their program and enter the workforce. Since this demographic makes up most of WGU’s students, it’s only fitting the institution wholeheartedly supported the bill. WGU pledged $1 million in scholarships to support the grant program and hosted an online panel discussing the new legislation before the ceremonial signing. During the panel, WGU student Israel Sanchez spoke about his experience as an older student returning to school to complete his degree. Sanchez has been chipping away at his bachelor’s for years. Speaking to the panel of lawmakers and educators, he said he’d taken
Hannah LaFond | h.lafond@mycityjournals.com
classes in everything from “Real estate classes to psychology classes to culinary arts, and I feel like I have a doctorate in randomness I’ve been working at this so long.” But, those credits hadn’t yet amounted to a bachelor’s. After taking a break for some time, Sanchez decided he wanted to go back and finish his degree. By that point, his life was too busy to attend school in the typical sense. At 33, he had a family to think about and a full-time job. Driving to campus and sitting through lectures wasn’t an option. Instead, he signed up for WGU’s online program. Thanks to the program’s flexibility, he’ll be graduating in a year with his degree in healthcare administration. And, he told the panel that because he was able to keep his fulltime employment, he and his wife have paid off their student loans, and he’s looking forward to being debt-free upon graduation. Sponsor of HB 328, Representative Lowry Snow (R-St. George), explained that this is precisely why the bill specifically targeted online learning. Because a majority of these adult students have full-time jobs, family, and other commitments, it’s difficult for them to work with a typical campus schedule. On top of that, many of them live in rural areas where the commute to campus alone would be a huge
WGU President Scott Pulsipher (left) and Senior VP of Public Policy and Public Affairs Wesley Smith (right) pictured at the signing of HB328. (Kristen Kerr with Exoro Public Relations)
time commitment. By making online programs more affordable, they hope to provide better access for these students. Through more flexible programs, anyone who can get online can finish their program according to their own schedule. “They can work on their degree after
the children have gone to bed, or during the weekends, or any of their off time,” Snow said. “This is just the beginning. When we see the outcome that is going to be generated from Israel and others like him, I think it’s going to catch on.” l
Local artist paints the town at Cafe Rio By Darrell Kirby | d.kirby@mycityjournals.com
W
alk into Cafe Rio Mexican Grill in Midvale and you will see a local touch despite the fact it is one of 135 restaurants that the locally-based chain operates across 11 states. It is a new community-themed mural painted on the wall straight ahead as you enter the fast-casual restaurant at 758 W. Blue Vista Lane. The painting is the work of artist Josh Scheuerman, who has been commissioned by Cafe Rio to adorn some of its eateries with wall paintings that reflect in some way the people, culture, and landscape of the area around that restaurant. By the way, he’s the same Josh Scheuerman who led the years-long effort to get his native West Valley City to build a skate park, which today is a popular attraction at Centennial Park. As part of a redesign of a number of restaurants, Cafe Rio wanted to give more of a local flavor to the outlets. The result is what’s called “postcard-style” art that has the look of old postcards that showed the geography, heritage, and other local features painted inside the letters of the community’s name. Scheuerman has painted similar types of murals at 13 other Cafe Rios in five states—places like Woods Cross; Boise and Pocatello, Idaho; Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Buckeye, Arizona; Las Vegas; and Aliso Viejo, California. “I don’t spend a lot of time in these other communities, so it’s good to make sure that I’m researching
Page 16 | June 2021
and doing my due diligence so that everything that is in the mural is representative of the community,” said the 43-year-old artist. It was no different with the mural at Cafe Rio in Midvale, where he researched and consulted with others to capture a few bites of the city’s history. When finished, Scheuerman’s artwork contained images such as City Hall, Gardner Village, Midvale’s mining history, and the now-closed Vincent Drug store and soda shop, a mainstay on Main Street for decades and site of several movie scenes. Other letters were filled with some of the fresh ingredients used by Cafe Rio in its fare. Scheuerman’s relationship with Cafe Rio started in January 2020. Someone from the restaurant chain saw him painting at an inauguration event for new Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall. He was asked to put his talents to work as part of the company’s redesign of several of its restaurants to focus more on pickup and drive-thru instead of indoor dining. Cafe Rio folks are pleased with the outcome. “The new painted murals provide us a great way to jointly celebrate the connection between the history of our local communities and our Cafe Rio brand heritage,” said the company’s chief concept officer, Todd Smith. “Josh has done an incredible job of bringing them to life in a creative way.” Despite the satisfaction of doing what he loves, painting can sometimes be grueling for Scheuerman.
Josh Scheuerman recently finished this mural at Cafe Rio in Midvale. (Darrell Kirby/City Journals)
Some of the projects he is hired for can take several 15- or 16-hour days with brush in hand to get it just right. When the artist spoke with the City Journals, he was heading the next day to Tonopah, Nevada to paint a mural on the wall of the town’s outdoor event plaza. He hopes Cafe Rio puts more mural jobs on his plate. The affable Salt Lake City resident is always happy to chat with people curious about his work. “My favorite part of painting is the interaction with the community wherever I am,” he said. l
Sugar House City Journal
Mundi Project providing piano access to underserved communities By Lindsey Baxter | l.baxter@mycityjournals.com
T
he Mundi Project was founded in 2006 by Hana Janatova to enrich the lives of those in the community by providing access to pianos. The mission of The Mundi Project is to actively break down socioeconomic and generational barriers by providing quality music experiences for all. Dr. Ruby Chou, the executive director of The Mundi Project, was excited to talk about the local organization as it celebrates it’s 15th anniversary this year. “The Mundi Project operates three main music programs for underserved communities of Utah— Harmony Hub, Mundi Live, and Piano Bank,” Chou explained. “As Mundi Project grows, we envision using musical learning as a conduit to create meaningful societal change. Our desire is to increase access to classes, performances, and instruments across the socioeconomic and generational spectrums.” Chou joined The Mundi Project three years ago and has had numerous events and experiences with the organization since joining the team. Her favorite memory was launching their intergenerational program, she said. “I completed research studies and a dissertation on intergenerational learning in the music classroom and I wanted to bring this type of learning to the community that I grew up in,” she said. “I decided to accept the executive director position in 2018 because of this very reason. In
Painting a piano. (Photo courtesy of The Mundi Project)
2019, we launched our first intergenerational program at Neighborhood House where we brought "kidfriends" and "grandfriends" together to learn and explore music. It was a joy to visit the class each week to see how the grandfriends would light up and interact with the kidfriends through singing and movement.” A few of Mundi’s upcoming events include: • Pay-what-you-can Summer Zoom classes in piano, ukulele, voice, and classical guitar start
Children learning to take apart and learn about instruments. (Photo courtesy of The Mundi Project)
June 14–July 22: www.mundiproject.org/learn/ zoom-classes/ • June 11 at 6:30pm on the plaza at the Gateway: Concert from the Couch feat Jazzy Olivo, Latin Jazz Fusion singer/songwriter. Tickets are $5/person or $20/family up to eight members from the same household. Tickets: www.discoverygateway.org
If you would like to join in on the 15-year celebration, make sure to check out the website, Facebook or Instagram. All donations go directly to student tuition, instruments, performing artists and teaching artists. For more information about anything related to this musical organization, please check out mundiproject.org. l
Study of wildland urban interface can help policy making By Joshua Wood | j.wood@mycityjournals.com
O
n the eastern edge of the Salt Lake Valley, Cottonwood Heights is more than the “City Between the Canyons.” It also lies near the wildland urban interface. This is the area where the living spaces of humans and wildlife intersect. In addition to convenient access to outdoor recreation, living in this area can also bring potential conflict with wildlife. Researcher Austin Green, a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Utah, has led a study of wildlife along the Wasatch Front. He partners with the local nonprofit organization, Wild Utah Project, on the Wasatch Wildlife Watch Project. “My main goal for this project is to affect sound conservation policy and management,” Green said. “I hope that the research that we do can elucidate how human influence affects wildlife distribution and behavior so that wildlife managers and policymakers have accurate information in-hand.” Green hopes this information will help develop strategies for balancing recreation and wildlife conservation. Among the conservation and management policies affected by this research is the placement of underpasses and overpasses for wildlife to safely cross busy roads and high-
MyS ugar HouseJournal .com
ways. The growth of the area’s human population and the resulting spread of development can further encroach on wildlife habitat and migration corridors. “It is difficult to say whether or not human-wildlife interactions or collisions are becoming more common, but we can say that human recreation is increasing, especially during the crazy times of this past year,” Green said. “In that light, it has become increasingly more important to understand how this increase in traffic affects wildlife behavior and distribution because, without this information, we are essentially running blind with how we deal with wildlife conservation and management in this state.” Local residents occasionally spot wildlife not just on the nearby trails, but in their own backyards. That was the case for Cottonwood Heights resident, Gigi Jones, who watched a coyote walk through her yard earlier this year. “It just walked through,” Jones said. “The animals use the dry creek bed by my house and don’t concern me. The coyotes were here first.” Wildlife overpasses and underpasses have been used to decrease collisions on roads and highways by providing wildlife with safe
means to cross roads. This helps preserve habitat and migration corridors. Green’s work has helped detail the use of wildlife overpasses and underpasses along the Wasatch and has shown that they help connect habitat. “Throughout the Central Wasatch Mountain Range, the highest wildlife habitat usage is within our most protected areas, specifically Red Butte Canyon Research Natural Area,” Green said. “This is most likely attributed to the fact that Red Butte has been untouched by massive human recreation and/ or development for nearly 150 years. This goes to show, and really highlights the importance of protected areas for establishing wildlife connectivity and source populations.” Source populations are areas where surpluses in population growth can help alleviate decreases in growth in other areas experiencing more human influence. Wildlife overpasses and underpasses help connect these areas with other habitat. The Central Wasatch Range is home to many species, but two stand out as the most prevalent. “Mule deer and humans dominate this landscape,” Green said. “It is amazing how well-adapted these deer are to both the Wasatch and surrounding Salt Lake Valley. However, we also see a fair amount of large
The Wasatch Wildlife Watch Project captures images of wildlife like this jumping coyote. (Courtesy Wasatch Wildlife Watch Project/Austin Green)
predators, including mountain lion, bobcat, black bear and coyote, which is pretty amazing given how close these animals are to humans.” Cottonwood Heights residents like Jones can attest to the close proximity of predators and other wildlife in the area. “It’s nice living near nature,” Jones said. “Seeing nature is a nice change from living in Chicago.” l
June 2021| Page 17
EARTHQUAKES. FIRES. GLOBAL PANDEMIC. CONTAMINATED WATER
ARE YOU PREPARED?
LET US HELP CHECK A FEW THINGS OFF YOUR LIST AND GIVE YOU THE PEACE OF MIND YOU NEED. WATER STORAGE FOOD STORAGE
370
494 Now$
Was $
160 Gallon Water Tank 29” x 36” x 45”
STAKE/NEIGHBORHOOD DISCOUNT: Buy 10 or more water barrels, get
FREE DELIVERY (central location) &
2,675 Bundle Deal
$
Includes Harvest Right Freeze Dryer & FREE 55 Gallon Water Barrel GET YOURS TODAY! IN STOCK TODAY!
FREE WATER STABILIZER ($40 value)
Official dealer of
801-797-3362 • GETPREPAREDUTAH.COM Page 18 | June 2021
Sugar House City Journal
Salt Lake School of the Performing Arts hosts in-person artistic graduation By Lizzie Walje | l.walje@mycityjournals.com
E
ach year, Salt Lake School of the Performing Arts (SPA) seniors decide on a theme for the graduation showcase that represents the unique optics of their collective experience. This year’s graduating class chose to craft their showcase around the lyrics “Hold on to the memories/they will hold on to you” an excerpt from pop star Taylor Swift’s song “Delicate.” The ceremony will be held Wednesday, June 2 at 6 p.m. at Highland High School. A staunch departure from last year’s virtual proceedings, students will reunite on the stage once again delivering a variety of captivating performances, ranging from music to dancing. While the theme serves as a universal thread that weaves together the various conservatory performances, the goal is to let creativity flourish. For some of them, it will be the last time they perform in a creative capacity. Despite Salt Lake School of the Performing Art’s creative student body, not all of their graduating seniors aspire to pursue careers in the arts. “We have students who go on to be nurses and doctors. [Our school] is nice for the students who want to continue dancing, or singing, but don’t want to do it professionally,” Lexie Hall, the school’s graduation committee chair explained.
That same flexibility extends to the graduation showcase, where students can choose their desired level of participation. For some, this means playing a critical role in the development of their conservatory’s performance, while others are perfectly content with singing the national anthem. Regardless, seniors spent months preparing for these performances, and now they will finally be able to share them with their loved ones, in person, for the first time since the 2019 graduation. In a year punctuated by first-time experiences, SPA’s principal Lucas Charon is particularly excited to witness his first artistic graduation. He is currently concluding his inaugural year as principal, yet he speaks with ease and confidence when discussing the success of his students. “Because our students are art students, they are often counted out. They proved so many people wrong this year.” Such appears to be the case, as SPA experienced a record-breaking number of students on honor roll. Furthermore, many graduating seniors will continue pursuing their dreams whether they choose to audition for prestigious ballet companies or enroll in higher education at Juilliard or one of Salt Lake City’s institutions. Despite recent progress in the decline
is looking for champions in your community!
Community
Salt Lake School of the Performing Arts will host an in-person arts-infused graduation this year, but with everyone wearing a mask and practicing social distancing. (Lizzie Walje/City Journals)
of COVID cases, the safety of SPA students and their loved ones remains a priority. As a result, students and guests, regardless of their vaccination status, will be asked to
wear a mask and practice social distancing. Perhaps a small price to pay for those who have waited a year to regain their rightful spot on the stage. l
Take the ElevateHERTM Challenge
Champions
are leaders who lift and inspire. They work to build a better community.
Are you a business leader? At no cost, the ElevateHERTM Challenge is easy to accept and will benefit your company.
Visit the City Journals website to nominate a community champion today!
www.thecityjournals.com Each month we’ll spotlight a Community Champion!
MyS ugar HouseJournal .com
Join businesses across Utah in our mission to elevate the stature of women’s leadership. Take the ElevateHERTM Challenge and stand with other businesses as we pledge to elevate women in senior leadership positions, in boardrooms, on management teams and on politcal ballots.
LEARN MORE: www.WLIUT.com/challenge
June 2021| Page 19
Coupon Code: Journal
MOST SOLAR STOPS WORKING WHEN THE POWER GOES OUT WE OFFER AN EMERGENCY POWER SUPPLY AT NO EXTRA COST
✔ $0 Down payments LESS THAN ✔ Monthly you currently pay for electrictiy. ✔ Emergency power supply. We’ll make your first 12 solar THAT’S FREE ✔ payments! ELECTRICITY FOR 1 YEAR!
We will give you a
Amazon.com Gift Card
100
$
When you get a bid from us. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. We won’t pressure you to buy. Bids can be given in an online presentation. We reserve the right to not give a bid if it doesn’t make sense we’ll let you know upfront. Most homes qualify. Expires 7/31/21. Restrictions apply, see amazon.com/gc-legal
Call or Go Online
801-285-0841 SmartWaveSolar.com
Page 20 | June 2021
Sugar House City Journal
City Journals Economic Overview
Utah Employment Exceeds Pre-Pandemic Levels By Robert Spendlove, Zions Bank Senior Economist
O
ne year after the economic recession caused by the coronavirus pandemic began, Utah’s economy has emerged as one of the strongest in the nation. Utah’s unemployment rate in April was 2.8%, down from 2.9% in March and nearly as low as it was before the pandemic. Utah is now tied with South Dakota and Nebraska for the lowest unemployment in the nation. Utah also has the second-highest job growth in the nation, ticking up 2.5% in the last 24 months. This is just behind Idaho’s job growth of 3.9% in the same time period. In fact, Utah and Idaho are the only two states that have added jobs in the last two years. Utah added 35,600 jobs over the past two years, with professional and business services (+15,700) leading the growth. Other sectors that saw notable gains were construction (+11,900); trade, transportation and utilities (+9,800); financial activities (+8,800); and manufacturing (+6,900).
However, the government (-10,500); leisure and hospitality (-7,600); and natural resources (-1,400) sectors have all lost jobs in the past 24 months. While the strong job market and low unemployment are very positive for Utah, our state is once again struggling with a labor shortage. Simply put, there are not enough people in the Utah labor force to meet demand for workers. If this continues for too long, it could constrain potential economic growth, especially for smaller companies that must compete with larger employers for these workers. Robert Spendlove is senior economist for Zions Bank, a division of Zions Bancorporation, N.A.
Are you looking at me?
So are 250,000 of your potential customers! Your business can market to over 250,000 homes and support the local community—all at the same time—with the City Journals. Our newspapers are the most widely read publications on the Wasatch Front. A current survey shows over 70% of homeowners read their City Journal.
Ask how you can receive a FREE AD www.TheCityJournals.com
CALL US TODAY FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION: MyS ugar HouseJournal .com
801.254.5974 June 2021| Page 21
Workforce is vital as we push for a strong economy There is great satisfaction in successfully providing for oneself and one’s family, but when someone falls upon hard times, shortterm government assistance can be helpful to get residents back on their feet. We must recognize, however, that government assistance shouldn’t be relied upon forever, and that helping people find jobs and contribute to their community is vital for them and the rest of us. We need the expertise and skills that our Salt Lake County residents have to offer. In the midst of the pandemic, when joblessness was on the rise, the federal government took measures to subsidize state unemployment payments across the nation. This was intended to keep jobless individuals and families afloat during a time of economic uncertainty. While some states are still struggling, Utah is performing exceptionally well. Our unemployment rates are among the lowest in the nation, and we are one of two states that actually had a net gain in jobs in 2020. In fact, many businesses are struggling to find employees to fill their open positions as they reopen and strive to return to pre-pandemic levels of business. I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many “Help Wanted” signs and advertisements before. Because of the economic trajectory of
URGENT AND PRIMARY CARE:
Only $10 A Visit!
WITH MEMBERSHIP
Medallus Medical Membership is a simple membership program to all of our 8 clinics. Members can receive discounted medical services at $10/visit flat fee in exchange for a monthly membership fee: • $50 / month (1 member) • $75 / month (party of 2) • $100 / month (family of 3) • $120 / month (family of 4 to 6) *$25 additional per person (family of 7 to 12)
$20 registration fee – 12-month contract
801-810-7058
arlissf@medallus.com AfterHoursMedical.com
Aimee Winder Newton Salt Lake County Council | District 3
ChinESE & Vietnamese kitchen Fresh Yummy Chinese Food
Readers like you keep us printing!
Connecting communities along the wasatch front
no msG
801.486.8199 | 2955 E 3300 S • SLC pan-wok.business.site
Be a part of your community news by donating to City Journals today!
OpEn M-F 11a-9p • Sat 12n-9p • sunday 4p-9p
(Pot Sticker 6pc, Cream Cheese Wonton 8pc, or Paper Wrap Chicken 6pc)
With over $20 purchase Expires 6/30/21.
FRee
D Ta O eli ke nl ve O y ry u Sp t/ ec ial
FRee appetizeR
EntrEE DiSh
Name: Phone:
Get one free entree dish with each order over $50–Plus free almond cookies
Address:
Expires 6/30/21.
My name is Jonathan Campbell. I am a resident of Holladay, and my kids attend school in the Olympus High network. I've been practicing dentistry for 20 years, near St. Mark’s Hospital. There are many great choices for dental care in the area. If you need a dentist, or you’d like a second opinion, we can help. Call or email today!
COSMETIC DENTISTRY • SEDATION DENTISTRY DENTAL IMPLANTS • FAMILY DENTISTRY
801-285-0721
State:
Zip:
One time Donation: $
Monthly Donation: $ Exp Date:
Mail to: City Journals at 9500 South 500 West, Suite 205, Sandy, UT 84070 For security reasons, if you would rather contact City Journals directly, call (385)557-1010 or email: accounting@mycityjournals.com
DEN TAL
1345 E. 3900 S. Suite #116 Salt Lake City, UT 84124
City:
Credit Card Number:
Legacy
www.legacydental.com
Page 22 | June 2021
our state, Governor Spencer Cox recently discontinued Utah’s participation in those earlier mentioned federal unemployment subsidies. This was done, in part, to combat what are called “perverse incentives,” meaning incentives that attempt to solve a problem but actually prolong or worsen the problems they are meant to solve. In this case, federal unemployment subsidies were intended to help those who could not find employment, but by continuing these benefits in good economic times, we would be disincentivizing those who are unemployed from finding gainful employment in a strong job market. We want government to avoid perverse incentives, and instead encourage people to find a long-term path to success. There are certainly extenuating circumstances that make it difficult for people to work, but for those who can work, please know that there are plenty of people hiring and you are most certainly wanted! If you are looking for a job, I encourage you to check out any number of job posting websites. You can visit the state’s employment website at jobs.utah.gov and see if there’s a good fit for you. Our workforce is better with you in it. Our quality of life is better when we take an active role in contributing to our families, neighborhoods and communities.
Thank you for your support
J
C
Journals C I T Y
801-254-5974
VALLEYJOURNALS.COM
Y O U R C O M M U N I T Y N E W S PA P E R S
Sugar House City Journal
Judge and jury
Life
Laughter AND
by
PERI KINDER
SUGAR HOUSE HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING
Apex Clean Air
Before COVID, when the hubbie and I used to travel, I’d book us in places that provided breakfast, because I love me a good breakfast buffet. At one hotel, the breakfast bar offered freshly squeezed grapefruit juice and I couldn’t resist. I don’t usually drink fruit juice because it has so much sugar, which is hilarious because I have no problem downing an entire box of Milk Duds. Anyway. I poured myself a cup of beautiful, pink grapefruit juice and was walking back to our table when a herd of unruly children came dashing around the corner and crashed into me, spilling grapefruit juice all over my shirt and the floor. I stood there dripping and waiting for an apology that never came. The monsters ran past me to fill their plates with bacon. I eyed them scornfully, poured more juice and put on my Hat of Judgement. What kind of mother lets her kids douse perfect strangers with grapefruit juice? What heathen had failed to teach these kids manners? I got back to my table and told my husband to move so I could take his seat because he had a better view of the dining room. I needed to see the parents of these miscreants and judge them accordingly. If anyone can sip grapefruit juice with disdain, I can. I sipped and glared with ma-
HEATING & AIR&CONDITIONING Water Softener Air Purification
801-449-1939
GUTTER REPAIR Jack’s Pro Gutter Repair and Cleaning 85% of gutters are repairable!
20 years experience - licensed and insured SENIOR DISCOUNTS De-icing and leaf protectors Call or text Jack
801-865-6382 ROOFING
801-272-7000
All types of roofs
$650 OFF any reroof over 2,000 sq. ft. LANDSCAPE MATERIALS
Barks, Colored Mulch, Compost, Soil Blends, Playground Chips, Sand-Gravel, Landscape Fabric & More
801-252-5962
4660 S 200 W Murray
Mention this ad for 10% Off
MyS ugar HouseJournal .com
SIDING
Capitol Exteriors
Estates or Foreclosures Empty lots or buildings
Call: 801-797-2956 www.ShopCulliganSLC.com
Call us, we can help! Call or text Dawn 801-808-5762
(801) 253-2566
METAL EXTERIORS
ELECTRICIAN
Specializing in metal roofs, wall panels, and exterior window treatments.
FUSION ELECTRIC
Free In Home AIR/WATER QUALITY TEST
ASPEN ROOFING
Call for a FREE estimate today
801-882-2332
Free CASH offer FAST
24 Hour Electrical Service Over 15 Years Experience Licensed & Bonded
www.aspen-roofing.com
385-212-9531
CONCRETE WORK
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING
Reasonable Prices, Quality Work, Prompt Service Flat work, Driveways, Patios, RV Pads, Sidwalks, Etc.
Call Dan:
REPLENISH LANDSCAPE
REAL ESTATE
NEED YOUR PROPERTY SOLD FAST?
Siding – Soffit – Fascia – Raingutters
Installations & Repairs Call today for a free in home estimate.
licious intent. Through narrowed eyes, I watched the kids eat all the bacon, touch all the bananas, grab several muffins and gallop back to their table, where their mom sat staring at her phone. My judgement level increased. This neglectful mother didn’t realize her childish baboons were running amok; she had no idea they spilled juice all over me, and she was too involved in her social media and texting to be a good mother. Verdict rendered. Guilty as charged. Gavel pounded. Oh, it felt good to be so superior. But then my stupid brain stepped in. “Ahem,” it said politely because it
doesn’t like to cause trouble. “Perhaps you’re being a bit harsh.” “Shut up, brain. I’m busy.” Instead of shutting up, my brain brought up a memory of my daughters. We were at an all-you-can-eat-buffet and the girls were not sitting like civilized humans. They were fighting, dropping food all over the floor, running back for seconds and thirds, and taking every single brownie from the dessert bar. They were animals. And I just sat there, so happy for the break from making dinner. I’d been that mom I was judging. My daughters had often run amok. If I’d had a cell phone when my kids were little, I would have been on that phone all the damn time. I slowly removed my Hat of Judgement and reevaluated the current situation. I turned to my husband and said, “It’s just juice. They’re just kids. She’s just a mom.” He didn’t know what I was talking about, but he chewed his bacon, nodded, and said, “That’s good.” Suddenly, I was teary-eyed and felt a camaraderie with this mother. She was in the trenches, doing her very best. Aren’t we all? The more I practice dropping judgement, the easier my life is. It’s exhausting calling out everyone’s behavior. There are better ways to spend my time, like drinking fresh grapefruit juice and remembering when my kids were wild animals.
801.518.7365
YARD SERVICES
Affordable Yard Care / Tree Trimming & Removal Flower Beds, Hedges, Railroad Ties, Mulching, Sod, Mowing, Concrete Senior Discounts
Call Dan:
801-518-7365
SUGARHOUSE HEATING & AIR
Call NOW For SPECIALS
Tile and Flooring Powell Tile and Laminate Flooring Tile, Back Splashes, and Bathrooms Laminate Flooring, Finish Work, and Services Call Chris for a free estimate 801.708.1123
PLUMBING/HVAC
24Hr Rooter Connectionz
Call Jeff at 801-347-1150
Drain, Sewer, Plumbing, Heating & Air Services. $49 OFF Any Service! Call Today
24 Hour Emergency: 801-484-0506 www.sugarhousehvac.com
UtahsPlumber.com
Residential and Light Commercial
SERVICE & REPAIR
LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED
PLUMBING
PLUMBING SPECIALISTS Up to 50% OFF most competitors’ pricing
Main water & sewer line replacement Water softener & tankless water heaters
Call 801-262-6111 Service-disabled Veteran Owned Small Business
801-758-2095
LEAFGUARD RAIN GUTTERS
Guaranteed not to clog for as long as you own your home. If it clogs, LeafGuard will come out and clean it for you.
One-Piece System, Professional Installation
CALL AND RECEIVE A $200 VISA GIFT CARD WITH YOUR LEAFGUARD PURCHASE!
Free Estimate - 385-300-0869
DOG PRODUCTS
Use Happy Jack ToneKote to treat allergies, stop shedding & insure a warm winter coat and Seal’N Heal to protect wounds with a bitter taste to prevent gnawing and allow healing. Available at Tractor Supply or online at www.kennelvax.com.
VEHICLES WANTED
We’ll buy your running & non-running, wrecked or broken car, truck or van.
(801) 506-6098 CarSoldForCash.com A Local Utah Company
FLAT ROOF SPECIALISTS
OLYMPUS ROOFING
801.887.7663 SERVING WASATCH FRONT SINCE 1973
WATER SOFTENER RELIABLE SOFT WATER without the typical water softener problems
• Zero maintenance • No breakdowns • 2/3 LESS salt
For free in-home estimate:
visit www.KineticoUtah.com or call 801-890-5344
June 2021| Page 23
W
ER HEATE
R
UV
AT
or
RATION SY S LT I F
M TE
W
O ER S F T E N E R
AT
PICK ONE FREE or
with an A/C & Furnace Combo Installation All offers are for homeowners only. One per household. Some restrictions apply. Call for details. Not valid with any other offers. Must present offer at time of appointment booking. Offer ends 6/30/21.
ALL HOURS MAIN OFFICE 1063 E. 3300 S. Ste # 100 | Salt Lake City UINTAH FIREPLACE
4497 S. Highland Drive | Holladay
HEBER LOCATION
486 N. Main Street | Heber City
(385) 202-1112
allhoursplumbingslc.com
Penny Annʼs Café
CLEAN HOME GUARANTEE
We will leave your work area cleaner than when we arrived, or we will pay for a cleaner to come through. (available with drain cleaning and many other services)
COMPLEMENTARY SECOND OPINIONS
Financing Savings & Specials available through our partnership
uintahfireplace.com
42nd Street Greenhouse.com
Home of the Heavenly Hot Cakes ®
Celebrating
Years 10 serving you!
Quality, Variety, and Price Salt Lake's Best Kept Secret • We grow 90 varieties of Heirloom Tomatoes
• Peppers, herbs & vegetables • Large selection of annuals & baskets • Fragrant English Rose Bushes &
www.pennyanns.com
climbers
PESTICIDE FREE - LOCALLY GROWN
BUY 1 ENTREE
GET 1 F R E E OF EQUAL OR LESSER VALUE Not valid with other offers. Valid through July 15, 2021.
SALT LAKE CITY
1810 South Main Street Salt Lake City, UT 84115
801-935-4760
DRAPER
280 East 12300 South Draper, UT 84020
801-662-0009
TAYLORSVILLE
1856 West 5400 South Salt Lake City, UT 84129
801-613-9702
ing offer ! Now e service d i s b cur
4221 South 700 East, Murray CALL: 801-266-1410 9AM–6PM
June 2021 | Vol. 7 Iss. 06
FREE
HIGHLAND HIGH NATIVE METCALF RETURNS HOME TO THE UTAH GRIZZLIES By Greg James | g.james@mycityjournals.com
M
etcalf is a household name amongst Utah hockey fans. Garrett Metcalf has made the Utah Grizzlies his first stop in what he hopes is a long professional career. “I was like two or three when I started skating,” Metcalf said. “Then I think my first organized games came when I was five or six. I started playing in the Salt Lake County lightning program until I was about 14 years old.” His father Steve played on the Highland High School team and by his own admission was not very good so he turned his love of the game into more than 25 years of hockey refereeing. Many remember him as someone who gave his all to hockey. “Steve trained me as an official,” current ECHL linesman Jim Mckenna said. “He was the top guy in the IHL (International Hockey League). I asked him for pointers and he was always willing to give, anything he did, he did with a love for hockey. He was willing to give back.” Metcalf recalled memories of his dad refereeing. “My brother and I grew up going to the games with our dad and I spent many years at the Maverik Center. It has now come full circle and for me to play my first year of pro hockey there is pretty special,” Metcalf said. His hockey career started at home, on the driveway. “We had a net and my brother started taping pillows to my legs and gave me a helmet and glove. He told me to stand in front of the net,” he said. “One time in Phoenix I ran across some equipment in a store. I begged my dad to buy them. I knew he would not pay full price, but it was on clearance. I told him they were on sale. He called my mom and they knew that I was never going back.” He has logged lots of years on the ice to get to this point in his career. “I spent a lot of summers early at the rink. My dad and I would get out to the oval (Kearns Olympic Oval). I would be on the ice at 4:45 in the morning before school. I did that multiple times a month. I had the support of my parents to get me there and they took me all across the country. I have been very blessed,” Metcalf said. Garrett Metcalf started skating at two and played his first organized hockey games when he was five or “Steve trained me as an official,” current ECHL linesman Jim Mckenna said. “He was Continued page 11
six. (Photo courtesy of Robert Church/Utah Grizzlies)
Tree Trimming & remOval • Stump Grinding • 24/7 Emergency Services • Powerline Trimming • Land Clearing • Demolition Options Available • Organic Mulch Products • Delivery Available
Mention this ad for
% OFF 10 Tree Services
Now HiriNg!
$35-$80K+
Full benefits & bonuses! Call 801-262-1596 or email Trent@diamondtreeexperts.com
Expires 6/30/2021
Contact us today at
Local Postal Customer ECRWSS Scan Here: Interactive online edition with more photos.
801-938-4345
DiamondTreeExperts.com
Thank You to our Community Sponsors for supporting City Journals
Presort Std U.S. Postage PAID Ogden, UT Permit #190