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February 2024 | Vol. 10 Iss. 2

WEST VALLEY CITY WINTER OVERFLOW HOMELESS SHELTER OFFERS A PLACE TO STAY….AND HOPE By Darrell Kirby | d.kirby@mycityjournals.com)

hings are looking up in the world of Bruce Rodriguez. The 35-year-old Salt Lake City native recently returned to Utah after spending time in Arizona. “I was homeless,” he said. “I came here to have a better life.” He attributes his homelessness to “my situation, my decisions,” without elaborating. The climb to what Rodriguez hopes will be a “better life” has already begun. He recently got a job at a Chuck E. Cheese restaurant and is saving money to eventually land an apartment. For now, he also has a place to stay, though it’s not ideal. He, along with 170 other people on this January day, were staying at a temporary winter overflow shelter inside a former state liquor store in West Valley City. The shelter at 3380 S. Redwood Road opened Nov. 1 and will operate through April 30 with funding from the state and other sources. It is managed by St. George-based nonprofit Switchpoint which partners with government agencies and other organizations to provide homeless services, including case management and running shelters like this one. Paulina Barrios is the shelter’s director of operations. “We are here to support the homeless resource centers (in Salt Lake County) throughout the wintertime,” she said. When those centers are full, she explained, the homeless are referred to overflow facilities like the one in West Valley City. The West Valley City shelter is open only to single men and couples 18 years and older and their pets if they have them. A cat on a leash could be seen in one corner of the shelter. Couples stay in one section of the facility while the single men take up the rest of the floor space. Barrios knows some of the obstacles faced by the shelter’s residents, having experienced homelessness and addiction herself earlier in life. The living and sleeping areas are separated by cubbyContinued page 15

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A former state liquor store at 3380 S. Redwood Road is now a temporary winter homeless shelter. (Darrell Kirby/City Journals)

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February 2024 | Page 3

Outdoor concert venue in West Valley City gets a new name

or more than 20 years, the outdoor concert venue known as the USANA Amphitheatre has been a gathering place for music fans. The venue nowhas a new name. Utah First Credit Union has acquired the naming rights for the venue which will now be called Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre (5150 S. 6055 West). The West Valley venue will continue to offer unforgettable music experiences to thousands of fans every concert season. “I’m thrilled about this collaboration,” Darin B. Moody said, CEO of Utah First Credit Union. “Part of our mission at Utah First Credit Union is to be significant in the lives of our members and the broader community. The Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre is our way of showing up for the community in a big way to provide a place where people can come together to relax and build lasting memories.” In recent years, the amphitheater has hosted a diverse lineup of musicians including Metallica, Morgan Wallen, Post Malone, Imagine Dragons and many others. Major shows have already been announced for the 2024 concert season at Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre, featuring Red Hot Chili Peppers, Sarah McLachlan, Third Eye

Blind, Styx and Foreigner, New Kids on the Block, Noah Kahan, Niall Horan, Alanis Morissette and Hozier. “With a legacy spanning more than 20 years, this venue continues to be a vital hub for live music fans in Utah,” Andy Peikon said, Live Nation’s senior vice president and head of venue sales. “Music brings people together, and this partnership with Utah First will allow us to deepen our roots within the community, promising to bring local music fans more live music experiences they’ll never forget.” Started in 1935, Utah First Credit Union is a member-owned financial institution that prides itself on its boutique banking experience. Headquartered in Salt Lake City, the credit union serves tens of thousands of members across Utah and nationwide. “We’re looking to foster a sense of togetherness and contribute to the spirit that makes our community so special,” Moody said. “We’re proud to play a role in creating a space for improvement, connection and enjoyment of the moments that matter most.” For information about concert announcements and events, follow the venue on all social platforms at @UtahFirstAMP or visit LiveNation.com. l

Utah First Credit Union has acquired the naming rights for the venue which will now be called Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre, located at 5150 S. 6055 West in West Valley City. (Left: Courtesy UFCU Amphitheatre Top: Wikimedia Above: Courtesy Loveloud Foundation)

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Embracing equality: Hunter High’s inclusion activities receive national recognition By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

enior Angelly Velasquez knows she is a much different person today than when she started at Hunter High. Much of that change she credits to being involved in unified soccer, basketball and most recently, playing Dory in the school’s unified play, “Finding Nemo, Jr.” directed by drama teacher Kjersti Parkes. “This school really supports us and offers us all these unified opportunities with the play, sports and a lot of classes,” Velasquez said. “Being involved in unified activities has helped me overcome my fears. I love unified, and I will forever be grateful.” Hunter High was recognized as a Unified Banner School at a special assembly; Special Olympics awards high schools that have met and are sustaining 10 requirements, including whole school engagement. For Velasquez, being in unified activities has given her more opportunities and more friends. “I’m excited about being in the play and playing sports with my friends; I’ve Hunter High students made a splash during their unified production of “Finding Nemo, Jr.” (Photo courtesy met people that I never would have,” she of Lynsay Carter/Hunter High) said. “I’m grateful that I can do this my last year of high school.” lines, I’m there to help with that and give well as unified sports. Last year was the first time Hunter her a cue. When we’re not on stage, we “Hunter has unified theater, unified students performed a unified play and Ve- will run through some lines or hang out soccer, unified basketball, unified track, lasquez was cast as a silly girl in “Beauty and talk about our lives.” unified PE. They have a unified swim and the Beast,” which she said was mostly Cooper said it’s a positive atmo- class and they’re adding more. It’s amazan ensemble part. sphere. ing. They make these kids really feel that “This year, I’m Dory; I wanted to go “This helps build unity in our school. they are Hunter Wolverines. It’s the coolout of my comfort zone and try something When we did ‘Beauty and the Beast’ last est,” Christie Rasmussen said. new. I have a lot of lines to work on and year, everyone was friends with everyone Teacher Ashley Ellis was the first to I’ve been working on that for a couple in the school even if they weren’t in per- offer a unified class, PE. Recently, she months. I’m excited to do this and make forming arts. It’s a positive experience took her athletes and partners to climb a memories my last year in high school,” and it just spread,” she said. “Angelly and rock wall. she said. “This year, it’s a little bit more I have become great friends through this. “They had never done it before and nerve-wracking with a bigger part, but It’s a very lengthy process and it can be everybody was nervous,” she said. “A I’m not doing it alone. On stage, I have exhausting, but it’s also full of giggles and partner was halfway up and got scared, a lot of friends and my partner, Regan memories and little inside jokes that we’ve then one of the unified students just start(Cooper) helps me memorize lines and created throughout it. We have photos we ed cheering. Afterward she told him she helps me with what I’m supposed to be can look back on and we’re in touch on would have quit if it had not been for him. doing. She assists me if I’m walking or in social media. We created a strong bond.” They are working together and realizing the wheelchair and helps me build confiHunter’s unified theater class came they have the same fears and hesitations. dence. She’s good at listening to me and about when as a then freshman Whitney They also learn they can help one another we talk about how to make it better. She’s Rasmussen followed her older brother Mi- and encourage each other.” just a wonderful person that I can trust.” chael to audition for a school play, “The Hunter High plans to add unified Cooper, a junior, said it was an easy Addams Family.” health and unified cooking classes next decision to be part of the unified play “Any time he participates in anything, year. again this year with Velasquez. she just likes to tag along,” her mother, “I’d love to have every class offered “I’ve always had a passion for the- Christie, remembered. “She stood up and as a unified class. It’s really fun to have ater, and I’ve always loved working with started singing. The director called, say- teachers of different subjects approach special needs kids; it’s what I want to do ing she didn’t know if Whitney could han- and ask what they can do to be a part of it. when I grow up,” she said. “Angelly and dle all the rehearsals and didn’t want to They see the benefit and they want to do I were partners last year so it was fun overwhelm her.” that in their content areas,” Ellis said. to connect more with her this year. I’ve For last year’s unified show, “BeauResource teacher John Young, who helped her with her diction, how to project ty and the Beast,” “Whitney volunteered said they received an outstanding recogand talk toward the auditorium. I’ve also herself to be Belle,” her mother said. nition for inclusion from the governor last helped her with singing as she has some Hunter High offers more than unified year, echoed Ellis. solos. Our roles are like backup singers to theater for students, said her mother. Her “What separates us from other give her voice depth and if she forgets her daughter is involved in cheerleading as schools is not just me teaching and work-

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Senior Angelly Velasquez and junior Regan Cooper forged a friendship through performing in unified musicals at Hunter High School. (Photo courtesy of Lynsay Carter/Hunter High)

ing with a small pool of kids every day, but the general ed(ucation) teachers who are joining and offering unified classes,” he said. “Those teachers have peer tutors and it’s the whole student body that gets an opportunity to become involved.” At the assembly, Special Olympics Utah representatives came to make the national banner announcement. “It was a surprise to the student body, even to most of our unified kids,” Ellis said. “We had hung it up the day before with a piece of black paper over it. When it was introduced, a few of our athletes were able to pull down that black paper and unveil it to everybody. Our athletes and those in the play were excited because everyone was cheering for them and acknowledging what they do. The crowd was excited because they were part of the reason we were able to earn that banner. In this program, it’s everyone finding a place where they are accepted and they are contributing.” l

February 2024 | Page 5

Four candidates launched campaigns this winter to represent Taylorsville, WVC residents in Utah House By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com

n this Presidential election year, it will be next-to-impossible to get away from political news throughout 2024. National pundits will tell us about every twist and turn amongst Biden and Trump. Here in Utah, expect much of the same when it comes to the wide-open race to replace retiring U.S. Senator Mitt Romney. The races you won’t hear much about will be further down on your ballot. On SOME of your ballots, to be more precise. Every even-numbered year, Utah’s 75 State House seats are up for grabs. The incumbent nearly always wins when they seek reelection. That’s just the reality. But this year, voters in northeast Taylorsville – along with many others in West Valley City and elsewhere – should have a little excitement in their District 31 House race. Yes, there is an incumbent; but he’s yet to receive the approval of “citizen voters.” Moreover, if he’s to retain the seat he earned a year ago in a special election, he’ll have to fend off one challenger within his own party – and then a GOP contender in November. Here then are thumbnail sketches of the four people seeking the Utah District 31 House Seat:

DEMOCRAT BRETT GARNER – INCUMBENT:

A little more than a year ago, popular Utah lawmaker Karen Kwan (D) won her District 31 House race resoundingly. Technically, it was not a “reelection,” because redistricting had changed the composition of her District (and its number). But very soon after Kwan was elected, veteran State Senator Karen Mayne resigned her post for health reasons. In a special election among Democratic Party delegates, Kwan was moved to the Utah Senate, where she has returned now for a second year. Her departure forced another special vote among Salt Lake County Democrats to replace Kwan in House District 31. That is the race Brett Garner won. The election was literally decided by just a handful of delegate votes. But this time around, Garner will have to earn the approval of the general electorate. On his website (brettgarner.org), Garner reports “I am a fifth-generation Utahn, descended from Utah pioneers. My wife Shannon teaches special education resource at Taylorsville High, her alma mater. I’ve worked to improve educational opportunities and fought against threats to our students’ success.”

Page 6 | February 2024

Father of three Democratic Taylorsville State Representative Brett Garner replaced Karen Kwan in the House 31 seat a year ago. He now faces one challenger from his party, and two GOP contenders, in his effort to remain in the post. (brettgarner.org)

With young children at home, Garner says he has been a stay-at-home dad since moving to West Valley City in 2018. “I was born and raised in Utah; grew up in the Bountiful area; and graduated from Woods Cross High School in 2000,” Garner said. “As an elected official, I believe transparency and accountability is critical. I want people in my District to understand my positions. I spent several months posting online links to the hundreds of bills I voted on along with an explanation of why I voted the way I did. Too much of what happens at the State Legislature goes under the radar. That shouldn’t be the case.” At press time, Garner planned to prefile several bills for consideration during the legislative session that just opened Jan. 16. One measure would create automated speed enforcement (“photo cop”) pilot programs in school and construction zones. Two other proposed measures would deal with raising the state’s minimum wage. Before knowing if, or how many, challengers he might face for his House 31 seat, Garner said, “‘I am open to more people being involved in the election. I am more than happy to have a contest of great ideas.”

DEMOCRAT VERONA MAUGA – IN-PARTY CHALLENGER:

A Taylorsville resident since 2008, Mauga reports she came within three party delegate votes of defeating Garner in that special replace-Kwan vote a year ago. “I find it interesting only 17 voters were allowed to decide who filled the seat,” Mauga said. “I lost 10-7; but there should have been more people from our District voting.”

Democratic District 31 Precinct Chief Verona Mauga launched her bid for the Utah House late last year. (voteverona.com)

Unlike the incumbent, Mauga does enjoy the endorsement of the lawmaker who previously won the general election for the House District 31 seat two years ago. “I have officially endorsed Verona for my House seat,” Senator Karen Kwan said. “She has worked with me ever since I entered the legislature, helping me campaign and get to know our communities. Verona will be very good at responding to community needs. She has the right demeanor and intelligence to be a great member of the House.” “I worked on all of Karen’s House races and was her campaign manager once,” Mauga said. “She called me last year to say she was going to run for the open Senate seat – and she encouraged me to run for her House seat. I had never run for elected office before but always knew it would eventually be in my path. I made the final decision to run again last summer.” Mauga is an Alta High School graduate, while her husband graduated from Taylorsville High. As the owner of two small businesses herself, Mauga considers Utah’s economic development to be one of her key issues. “I own a women’s residential treatment center in Herriman, and I operate a Midvale bakery and café with my siblings,” she explained. “I understand the difficulty in opening and sustaining businesses in Utah.” Mauga is spending the early part of this year trying to gather both financial donations and campaign volunteers. “Karen (Kwan) is the first Democrat to hold this House seat and I think it’s because she genuinely cares about the community,”

Republican Andrew Nieto opposed Karen Kwan in the Utah House 31 race two years ago and is now campaigning for the same seat against new opponents. (nieto4house31.com)

Mauga concluded. “She literally brings people to the table to address issues. That’s the kind of legislator I hope to be – someone who puts people first.” The candidate’s son, Loimata Mauga, was a junior offensive guard on the Southern Utah University football team last fall. On her website (voteverona.com), the candidate says, “(I am) a dedicated advocate and first-generation immigrant committed to positively impacting through compassionate public service and determined action.”

REPUBLICAN ANDREW NIETO – GOP CHALLENGER:

Unlike the other three candidates, including the incumbent, this is Nieto’s second attempt to earn House District 31 general voter support. Two years ago, he fell to Kwan in the race, 62 to 38 percent. “I’ve been thinking about running again, ever since Karen vacated the seat,” he explained. “I am also surprised and pleased to have a Republican opponent. It is good for democracy to have competition.” Nieto grew up in Los Angeles County, California before moving to Utah in 2013 to attend Weber State University. He married in 2016 and moved to Taylorsville in 2018. The couple has no children. Nieto has been a public school substitute teacher for the past three years. On his website (nieto4house31.com), the candidate describes himself as a “devoted conservative, passionate bipartisan bridge-builder, moored to core values. I am ready to earn your trust as the legislative voice of Taylorsville/WVC. House District

West Valley City Journal

31 is among the most diverse in the state. I have learned, through conscientious practice since childhood, to listen and seek understanding of everyone I meet.” Nieto plans to concentrate his early campaigning efforts on reaching out to Salt Lake County GOP delegates who represent his District 31. Salt Lake County Republican Party Chair Chris Null thinks that’s a wise move. “If either candidate earns 60% of the delegate vote, they can avoid a primary,” Null said. “There will be a maximum of 1,560 delegates at our April 13 County Convention. But only those from District 31 will vote in this race. That’s probably 40 to 80 people.” Nieto says two of his top priorities if elected will be criminal justice reform and Utah land management. Additionally, on his website, the candidate mentions homelessness, education funding, infrastructure and crime reduction as some of his key concerns.

REPUBLICAN RUSSELL MOORE – GOP CHALLENGER:

West Valley City resident Russell Moore is a lifelong Utah resident who’s been married 45 years and has seven children and 29 grandkids. “I was raised in Lehi by a mom who was a Democrat and a dad who was reg-

istered Democrat – to keep peace in the house – but who always voted Republican,” Moore said. “My parents hosted a voting precinct in our home and my mom was an election judge for as long as I can remember. We were very active politically.” A ceramic tile contractor by trade, Moore plans to retire in about two years. “I have been a tile contractor 33 years and in construction since 1974,” he said. “But I am stepping back from that now and can be available full time during the legislative session, if elected.” Unlike his three opponents, Moore has not yet established a campaign website – but plans to. Until then, he can be reached at russellbyronmoore@gmail.com or 801301-1765. “We are facing critical issues in our state,” Moore said. “One of my top issues is, we can’t afford to lose the Great Salt Lake. We need to protect it – and we also need to be looking 50 years down the road at how to better preserve and protect our Utah water resources. We need more water storage and better water management and conservation.” Speaking just a couple of days after officially entering the race, Moore admitted he has homework to do. “I haven’t thought yet about the issues in my particular District,” he said. “Now that I am running, I plan to get into

Retired father of seven and grandfather of 29 Russell Byron Moore is seeking the GOP nomination for the Utah House District 31 seat. (Courtesy Russell Byron Moore)

the community and talk to people – see what they are thinking. I know inflation is a widespread issue. And with less money to spend, I also know local businesses are not being frequented as much as they once were. I want to address that issue, also.” Interestingly, in 2020 and 2022 voters toward the south and west of Taylorsville made the Utah House race very close between veteran GOP lawmaker Jim Dunnigan and two-time challenger Democrat Lynette Wendel. This time around, Dun-

nigan is completely unopposed; so there will be no House election drama for those voters this time around. Meantime, it’s northern and eastern Taylorsville residents who now have this field of four candidates. Summer primary elections are a possibility in both parties. At a minimum, House District 31 voters will get their final say on Nov. 5, on their ballot below the races for President, Utah senator and others.l

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February 2024 | Page 7

Furnace Filter Exchange Program helps West Valley families improve indoor air quality By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

s hospitals in the county see an increase in Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), lawmakers in the state launched a program to help improve air quality in the homes of children affected by respiratory illnesses. In January, Sen. Luz Escamilla, Rep. Angela Romero, Dr. Daniel Mendoza, and Dr. Shana Godfred-Cato announced the Furnace Filter Exchange Program. Funded by the Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit: Rocky Mountain Region, the initiative provides households in West Valley with the opportunity to upgrade their furnace filters to high-efficiency ones, free of charge. “Often people only think about the air outside of their home, not inside,” Romero said. “This program works to educate families about how indoor air quality can have an impact on health. One of the top priorities of this legislative session for the Democratic Caucuses is air quality. We call on our legislative colleagues to join us in providing funding to address our quality across the state.” The main goal of the program is to improve air quality within homes, impacting the respiratory health of participating families. Initially, the program will work with 100 families in the community, with hope to expand. To participate, applicants must live in

West Valley, have permission to access to the home’s furnace and have children in the home who have been diagnosed with a respiratory disease. “We will go into homes and provide new air filters and collect their current ones,” Godfred-Cato said. “The old filters will be analyzed, and families will receive a report that tells them what air contaminants were found in their home….We will focus on families with children that have chronic lung conditions such as asthma since we know that poor air quality can lead to worsening respiratory health.” She also stated that the county’s poor air quality contributes to increased respiratory illness, but candles, incense and the frying of food inside the home can also contribute to poor indoor air quality. The Furnace Filter Exchange Program includes placing an air quality sensor outside and inside participating homes to measure pollution levels before and after the new filters are installed. The family will be connected with a medical specialist to discuss the health concerns of poor air quality and provide healthcare for children with respiratory related symptoms. “This program aims to reach working families in our Westside communities who are just trying to survive,” Escamilla said. “The health care component and educational aspect are important for our low-income families who may not have access to health care. Every part of the state should have good air quality re-

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In the new Furnace Filter Exchange rogram, eligible West Valley residents can upgrade to high-efficiency furnace filters for free. (Stock photo)

gardless of location.” The PEHSU: Rocky Mountain Region is part of a national network dedicated to the prevention and treatment of health concerns in children brought about by environmental exposures. Its mission is to improve pediatric health by supporting communities facing ongoing environmental challenges.

Through this program, Escamilla and Romero want to foster healthier living environments and empower families to protect their respiratory health. They encourage eligible households to apply for the opportunity to help create a healthier, safer community for children. Search online for the Furnace Filter Exchange Program to apply. l

Council approves appointments to citizen boards and committees By Tom Haraldsen | t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com

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s the new year began, a number of appointments or reappointments to citizen committees were approved by the West Valley City Council. Mayor Karen Lang was reappointed to the West Valley Housing Authority Commission for a two-year term. Also reappointed to the commission for four-terms were councilmembers Tom Huynh, Don Christensen and William Whetstone, all who were reelected to their council posts in November. Christensen was also reappointed to the Board of Trustees of the South Salt Lake Valley Mosquito Abatement District. Karin Toone has been appointed a member of the West Valley City Clean and Beautiful Committee for a four-year term. Council also appointed Gabbi Arias-Vargas to the same committee for a four-year term. Darrick Porter was reappointed by the council to a four-year term on the West Valley Planning Commission, and Renee Layton was appointed to the same commission for a two-year term. Janice Fisher was also

Council approves appointments to citizen boards and committees for the city. (File photo City Journals)

reappointed to the Board of Trustees of the Magna Mosquito Abatement District. Other appointments will be forthcoming. Of particular interest will be the selection of a new city manager in the next few

weeks. Wayne Pyle retired last year and applicants are in the process of being interviewed for consideration.l

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February 2024 | Page 9

Council salutes Ramirez for his Congressional Recognition award

he West Valley City Council paid tribute to West Valley City employee Pascual Ramirez at its Jan. 23 meeting. He was one of 40 Utahns honored at the 2023 Hispanic Heritage Congressional Recognition Ceremony at the state capitol in November. It was hosted by Rep. Burgess Owens. Ramirez was nominated for the award by Mayor Karen Lang. She wrote that he served for 15 years in the U.S. Navy before joining the U.S. Air Force, where he served for another 12 years. “Mr. Ramirez is an accomplished bugler, an instrument best-known for the beloved and haunting call of ‘Taps,’” the mayor wrote. “Because the number of bugle players is declining, Pascual volunteers his time at military funerals and events over 20 times each year. Dressed impeccably in Air Force dress blues, he embodies the discipline and pride of a U.S. soldier.” Ramirez works for the city parks department at a local golf course. He has performed at the Memorial Day ceremony and the Veterans Day dinner and program, and has led the WestFest parade the past two years, carrying the Stars and Stripes. He also is a member of the Salt Lake Letter Carriers Band.

By Tom Haraldsen | t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com Lang further wrote that “Pascual has demonstrated his patriotism and commitment to the United States of America by serving in two branches of the armed forces for 27 years. Gov. Gary Herbert presented him with the Hometown Hero Award in 2010 following his last deployment from the Middle East. In addition to the hours dedicated each month to honoring veterans at their funerals, Pascual contributes to the community by volunteering with the Freedom Academy at Camp Williams for high school seniors. He participates as part of the color guard at Salt Lake Bees and Utah Jazz games, provides free maintenance in his neighborhood and helps harvest crops at a nearby orchard.” Lang said city leaders “are proud to support our military and to work alongside staff members like Ret. Sgt. Pascual Ramirez.” l

Pascual Ramirez was recognized by the City Council for his Hispanic Heritage Congressional Recognition award. (Photo courtesy of West Valley City)

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Exhibit celebrates 100 years of Utah in films By Tom Haraldsen | t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com

n 1923, “The Covered Wagon” became the first-ever motion picture filmed in Utah. It was shot in Circleville. The silent movie was released in 1924, has enjoyed a lifetime box office total of $4 million (mainly through rentals) and still scores a 91 on Rotten Tomatoes. More importantly, it brought Hollywood to Utah, and it’s been here ever since. The Utah Film Commission has opened a new exhibit, “100 Years of Utah Film & Television,” on the fourth floor of the Utah State Capitol, where it will be on display through the end of the year. It’s free to the public. To celebrate, an opening night ceremony was held on Jan. 11 featuring actress Lacey Chabert, writer/producer/director Jerusha Hess, actress/producer/director Amy Redford, executive producer Danny Peykoff and author/film historian James D’Arc. UFC director Virginia Pearce moderated a panel discussion before the exhibit formally opened. Pearce said the exhibit showcases “the breadth of what has happened here,” over 1,000 movies and TV shows shot in the state, not including hundreds of commercials. “Utah started as a very insular, withdrawn society in the pioneer days,” said D’Arc, whose book “When Hollywood Came to Utah” was published in 2019. He is working on a centennial edition for later this year as well. “When the Parry brothers—Chauncey, Caleb and Gronway—opened it up to the Hollywood studios in 1920, they opened up Utah to the world.” He says filmmakers have returned regularly since those early days. Almost every corner of Utah has been featured in Hollywood productions from Cache Valley to Southern Utah. The exhibit has walls covered with posters and photographs from many of those films and includes artifacts such as a John Wayne saddle he called one of his favorites, shoes from “Napoleon Dynamite,” an alien head from “Plan 10 From Outer Space,” and memorabilia from the “High School Musical” movies shot at East High School. There’s a nice tribute to Kevin Bacon’s “Footloose” as well, a movie that really opened the way for contemporary filmmakers to come to the Beehive State. More than 200 episodes of TV’s “Touched by an Angel” were filmed in and around Salt Lake City, Provo and Ogden, along with three seasons of “Promised Land” that was a spinoff from “Touched.” Redford said Utah has “a scrappiness in the way in which you accomplish things in this state.” She has filmed two movies here, and of course her father Robert Redford has been entwined with Utah for many years— from films like “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” and “Jeremiah Johnson” to his Sundance Film Festival, which enjoyed its 40th anniversary this year. Chabert is known as the “Queen of the

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The alien head from “Plan 10 From Outer Space,” with the Utah beehive symbol, is part of the display at the state capitol. (Photo by Roger Tuttle)

From left, actress Lacey Chabert, actress/producer/director Amy Redford, and executive producer Danny Peykoff spoke at the exhibit’s grand opening. (Tom Haraldsen/City Journals)

“The Covered Wagon” was the first movie filmed in Utah, released in 1924. (Photo by Roger Tuttle)

Hallmark” movies since she’s been cast in over 30 of them. Two of those, “Haul Out the Holly” and “Haul Out the Holly: Lit Up,” were filmed in the same cul-de-sac in Salt Lake City. “I love working here in Utah,” she said. “I’ve worked with some of the nicest people I’ve ever met. There’s a collaborative spirit here, a sense of team.” Peykoff is the executive producer for “Horizon: An American Saga,” the Kevin Costner multi-part Western saga that was filmed in southern Utah. Two more parts of that franchise are in the planning stages for filming in the future. The first two films will be released this summer. “Kevin has been scouting locations in Utah since 2006,” he said. “He loves the American West and he has always loved coming to Utah, where of course the first couple of seasons where ‘Yellowstone’ were shot.” Peykoff added that while working on “Horizon,” he and his daughters also dis-

Paul Newman and Katharine Ross (inset photo) filmed “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” in Washington County. (Photo by Roger Tuttle)

covered something else, Utah-based Swig drinks. “I don’t know why I can’t find anything like that in Southern California, but they’re great here.” Just wait, Danny, they’re growing nationwide. Hess and her husband Jared broke into the industry with their blockbuster debut film, ‘Napoleon Dynamite,” shot with a budget of just $200,000, premiering at the Sundance Film Festival and going on to earn a $44 million box office and become a cult classic. Since then, the Hess’ have written and produced a number of films, Jerusha helming “Austenland” with Keri Russell, Jennifer Coolidge and Jane Seymour in 2013. “We always have about a dozen ideas for films floating around in our heads,” Hess said. “We love working here and can’t wait to film here again.”

The film commission said over the past decade, more than $600 million has come into the state from film productions, and 36,000 jobs have been created worth $1.5 billion in wages. Utah tourism estimates almost $44 million went to businesses and for wages in rural Utah for one 2022 film (the name was not disclosed). D’Arc said that for the most part, the locals who’ve been involved in the film industry as it’s come to Utah—from extras to crew members to merchants and hospitality hosts—have said the same thing about the days when Hollywood comes to town “All they take are pictures,” he said, “and all they leave is money.” l

February 2024 | Page 11

Stars unveil new uniform combinations By Greg James | g.james@mycityjournals.com

he Salt Lake City Stars represented West Valley City by wearing ‘West Valley’ inspired uniforms. The Stars play their home games at the Maverik Center and wanted to support their local fans. “West Valley is the home of so many thriving businesses and families,” Salt Lake City Stars President Jonathan Rinehart said. “We are proud to showcase this. It is a privilege to honor the local heroes that serve the community of our Maverik Center home on a daily basis. The uniforms call attention to the local support and thank all of the Star’s West Valley fans.” The Stars are the NBA G League affiliate of the Utah Jazz. On Dec. 16, 2023 they wore uniforms with West Valley across the chest. These uniforms were auctioned off after the game on their website and Instagram. The team moved to West Valley in 2022 after playing six seasons at Salt Lake Community College in Taylorsville. They have embraced their West Valley identity. The uniform’s style comes from the city’s flag and the “WV” pattern is woven throughout the design. Buster, the Stars’ mascot, visited West Valley fire stations 73 and 75 to invite first responders to the game. The West Valley uniforms are not the

team’s only new alternate uniforms. They also partnered with the NBA Paint brand for a new look. The graphics on the uniforms resemble stars across the chest. NBA Paint has grown in popularity thanks to their comical graphic rebrands of all 30 NBA teams. During the summer of 2023 every NBA team used the NBA Paint rebranded logo for their social media platforms. The Stars are only the second G League team to collaborate with NBA Paint for game-worn uniforms. The team debuted those new uniforms Jan. 19. Earlier this year the team wore throwback uniforms supporting the Utah Stars. The team has a 3-6 regular season record. The regular season began Dec. 28. Before that they had played in the G League showcase and placed third in the Western Conference with a 9-7 record. They split a home and home series in January with the Oklahoma City Blues. The Stars lost Jan. 19, 139-129, at the Maverik Center. Brice Sensabaugh scored 27 points in the loss. Jazz two-way center Micah Potter secured a double-double by grabbing 17 points and 11 rebounds. Josh Christopher leads the team in scoring, averaging 21.0 points per game. The

NBA Paint designed new uniforms for the Stars. These were the second game-worn styles done for the league by the viral brand. (Photo courtesy of slcstars.com)

6-foot-4 guard played college basketball at Arizona State. He played for the Sioux Falls Skyforce to begin the season and was then acquired by the Stars. He has played in nine NBA games with the Jazz and Houston Rockets. The Stars are scheduled to play two games in Mexico City Feb. 4 and 5. They will then return home to face the Santa Cruz Warriors Feb.7. The full schedule can be found on the team’s website slcstars.com. The Salt Lake City Stars are owned and

operated by the Utah Jazz. They played for the first time in 2016 in Utah. The team was relocated from the Boise-based Idaho Stampede. They play their home games at the family friendly atmosphere of the Maverik Center. The NBA G League is the official minor leagues for the NBA. The role of the G League is to prepare players, coaches, officials, trainers and front office staff for the NBA. The league also acts as a research and development laboratory. l

The Stars mascot Buster visited fire stations 73 and 75 to invite first responders to the team’s home games. (Photo courtesy of slcstars.com)

Page 12 | February 2024

West Valley City Journal

Salt Lake Community College program gives unlikely students a shot at college By Darrell Kirby | d.kirby@mycityjournals.com

alt Lake Community College and Granger High School in West Valley City are partnering to give Granger students a chance to do something they probably hadn’t thought of doing- going to college. The two schools have announced a joint program called PACE, Partnership for Accessing College Education. PACE opens the doors to higher education at SLCC for low-income and first-generation college students. “We’re pretty pumped about the PACE program,” Granger High Principal Tyler Howe said in a statement. “It helps the kids see the end goal at the beginning of high school— many students think college is unaffordable or not an option for them.” “We are so thrilled to support this innovative program, helping first-generation students with the tools they need for academic success,” Lisa Eccles said, president and chief operating officer of the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation, which donated funds to make the program available to Granger students. Granger is the sixth area high school to join PACE. And the need is evident by the fact that 69% of students at Granger, the largest high school in Utah, participate in the free or reduced-price lunch program. “Our approach involves collaborating with students to broaden their perspectives. We achieve this through the dedicated support of a full-time adviser within the school and the guidance of part-time peer mentors who offer personalized mentoring and workshops,” Alonso Reyna Rivarola said, director of SLCC’s PACE program. Students are also helped with forming a college mindset and gaining the confidence that they belong and can succeed in pursuing postsecondary education. “I’m excited to make PACE part of the commu-

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nity at Granger, which in itself is already a community hub,” Reyna Rivarola continued. “The PACE adviser is available daily to engage with students and their families. This highlights the community part of SLCC.” PACE was created by SLCC President Deneece Huftalin in her desire to make higher education accessible to more people. The first participant was West High School in Salt Lake City in 2011. Over the ensuing years and the addition of four other high schools, 442 of the 561 students who have completed the PACE program have enrolled in college. “All the steps leading to graduation and college can seem abstract. PACE can help facilitate and paint the picture from the beginning for these students, with a carrot at the end—a scholarship to SLCC,” Howe said. As the first participants in the school’s PACE program, 60 Granger freshmen received a new iPad during a launch event in January. l

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February 2024 | Page 13

West Valley City demolishes old public safety building By Darrell Kirby | d.kirby@mycityjournals.com)

fter sitting empty for more than four years, West Valley City’s old public safety building is no more. The structure just north of city hall and next to the city’s current police department was finally demolished in January as was the adjacent West Valley City Justice Court. The complex, which was originally an office building and not intended to be a public safety headquarters, had housed the police and fire departments for well over 30 years. That ended in 2019 when the West Valley City Police Department moved into a newly built 66,500-squarefoot facility next door. The fire department’s administration and justice court are now housed at city hall. The city is relinquishing ownership of the now-vacant land, and it will eventually see a four to five-story office building and attached parking structure erected along with surrounding retail shops as part of a development by Wasatch Group, whose CEO is Utah real estate magnate Dell Loy Hansen. “We’ve got a great (main) tenant that’s Maycoming 23rd in here,” pending city council approval, said Mark Nord, West Valley GoldenCity’s Corral,economic 665 East optimization 7200 and redevelopment agency director. An announcement South,beMidvale could made in the coming weeks. He

adds that it will bring a sizable number of employees to what is shaping up to be West Valley City’s “downtown” area. Nord says the project will start soon, possibly this spring or summer, after some more office space is filled at the nearby Fairbourne Station office tower, also a Wasatch Group property which opened in 2020. “They want to finish leasing out the office tower first,” Nord said. Sixty percent of it is already occupied. Wasatch Group has further broadened its stake in West Valley City’s core with its recent acquisition of Valley Fair Mall from Coventry Real Estate Advisors and additional improvements are planned at the mall. “They really see the vision and the opportunity that’s here in West Valley and are going all in on it,” Nord said. Past, current and upcoming development around West Valley City Hall is intended to give the city a more defined central hub or downtown area encompassing government, commercial activity and housing. “We’re not there yet, but we’re trying to get there,” Nord said. l West Valley City’s old police and fire department headquarters was torn down in January to make way for a privately owned office and retail buildings. (Darrell Kirby/City Journals)

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Continued from front page hole-type shelves—leftover from the liquor store days—where shelter residents store their belongings ranging from clothing, shoes and toilet paper to a wide mix of food such as Hostess cupcakes, ketchup, cereal, coffee creamer, soda, canned goods and more. Larger items are kept in PODS storage containers in the parking lot. Trailers with portable restrooms and showers are parked just outside the building. There is also an outdoor smoking area. What makes this overflow shelter somewhat different from other local shelters is that it operates 24 hours a day. People who check in can stay all day and night for as long as needed during the shelter’s six months of operations. Some shelters limit the number of nights the homeless can stay and require them to leave during the day. Barrios says that 90% of the occupants are regulars and 10% are new check-ins each week. “We’ve been at capacity since our third week of operation.” The checkout

stands from the old liquor store are now used to check in newcomers to the shelter where staff gather their information, and search their belongings every time “guests,” as they’re called, enter the building, including scanning to detect weapons or other prohibited items. “We don’t really get any pushback from the guests. They’re all pretty comfortable here,” Barrios said. Also of note is the lack of any visible security people in or around the shelter. It turns out that, at least at this particular shelter, the less security, the fewer the problems. One shelter dweller said people tend to look out for others or not cause issues in hopes they, too, will be left alone. Kenneth Reed and his companion Helen Carter have been staying at the overflow shelter since just after it opened in November. Reed, 52, says he has been without a permanent home for the past year and a half. He blames it on “money mismanagement,” despite making a decent income when he worked. Reed says he is now retired. “Housing is so expensive now,” he said. He and Carter, who is 40, bounced around among

different hotels and shelters for six months but grew weary of that. “It’s just non-stop movement. You never know from one day to the next. Your stuff is always getting stolen,” Reed said. The two appreciate the relative stability of the West Valley City shelter. “Here it’s safe. It’s kept us out of the cold and a roof over our heads,” Carter said. Both, however, say the facility has some jail-like rules and restrictions. “There’s a reason for that—the structure,” Reed said. The pair are waiting on permanent housing, which is made more difficult by their relationship status. “There’s a lot more available for singles than there are for couples,” Reed noted. “If there was more housing for couples, then it would be easier,” Carter added. Barrios says cities in the area that host overflow shelters are required to do so only once every three years unless they bid to do it more frequently. “The community has been really welcoming in West Valley,” she said, citing donations of food, money and labor. “We’ve been trying to be good neighbors as well.” l

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Helen Carter and Kenneth Reed have been at the West Valley City winter overflow shelter since soon after it opened in November. They are waiting on permanent housing. (Darrell Kirby/City Journals) Bruce Rodriguez is taking steps to get his life on track following a period of homelessness he attributes to “my situation, my decisions.” (Darrell Kirby/City Journals)

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eborah Veater thought 2024 would be the year she could finally relax and retire. Veater taught music for decades and stepped down as assistant director at the Seasons Chorale (part of SoJo Choral Arts) in 2023. But after attending the Gather Conference in Provo, she realized a new career was just beginning. The Gather Conference is an event for LGBTQ+ members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the people who love them. Its mission is to create an environment of hope and support in a Christbased community. “I went to the conference, walked in the door and felt a spirit like I’ve never felt before,” Veater said. “It was so strong. It was a spirit of acceptance. We were all there together, whether we were LGBTQ family or friends or church leaders or whatever. And we were all there to talk about how we can nurture each other.” On her way home from the conference, the idea hit her like a brick: she needed to create an LGBTQ-friendly auditioned choir and call it Vocal Tapestry. It would bring people together with the desire to uplift and create harmony. She wanted the choir to be a sanctuary where everyone felt included and individuals are celebrated. The concept is dear to her heart as her son is gay. She remembers the heartbreaking conversation with him that started with, “If I am gay, will you still love me?” His question shattered her. She thought about the Madrigal students she’d worked with at Bingham High School who told her they were LGBTQ+ and afraid to come out to their families. She thought of the young people who died from suicide because of the fear involved with their sexual or gender identity. She knew she had to be a voice of love and Vocal Tapestry was a way to begin. “I feel like the purpose in my doing music all these years has been to love the individ-

ual,” Veater said. “My goal is to love them and take care of them and make sure they don’t turn suicidal. I want to make sure that they know that someone is going to be there for them and that there is light in this world.” Veater has scheduled auditions and rehearsals to be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building at 1244 W. Chavez Drive in South Jordan. She’s looking for singers who can read music and perform a cappella. She’s also auditioning musicians, including guitarists and drummers, to accompany the choir. Introduction meetings will be held on Feb. 8, 15 and 22 at 7 p.m. Rehearsals will be held at the same location on Thursdays from 7 to 9 p.m. She understands members of the LGBTQ+ community might have a difficult time auditioning and rehearsing at an LDS church, but she asks them to put their reservations aside in order to give the group a chance to flourish. “I am a strong member of the church and yet I have a view of the LGBTQ community that is inclusive,” Veater said. “I want them to see that they can come and know that they’re cared about. It will be a safe place.” For more information, visit Vocal Tapestry Utah on Facebook. l

West Valley City Journal

Government needs your voice! Here’s how you can get involved

ast month, I had the pleasure of attending several swearing-in ceremonies for newly elected city officials in my district. I watched individuals of various ages, demographics and backgrounds take an oath of office and assume the role of public servants. I couldn’t help but think this is exactly what our Founding Fathers envisioned—a government by and for the people, accessible to those willing to serve and citizens who can select leaders representing their interests. In almost every ceremony, these elected officials thanked supporters who knocked on doors, distributed fliers, hung signs and helped get out the vote. I was humbled thinking about the same support I have received over the years. As Utahns, our engagement doesn’t need to end at the ballot box. There are countless ways that we can continue to help influence decisions to reflect our interests and values. What can you do to stay involved and ensure your voice gets heard? Here are five easy things to remember. 1) Remember, local is where it’s at Local government impacts our daily lives much more than at the national level. Getting involved locally is the most effective way to maintain our quality of life. The good news? Local issues are rarely overly partisan and tend to be less divisive and contentious. 2) Stay informed

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Take the time to learn about the issues in your area. The more you know, the more empowered you will be to start meaningful discussions, contribute to healthy debate and offer solutions. 3) Connect with your elected officials Easily locate email addresses and phone numbers on your city or county websites. Don’t know who your state representatives are? Visit le.utah.gov, where user-friendly tools will help you find your representatives' names and contact information. Connecting with your leaders on social media is also a great way to learn about their priorities and a convenient forum to ask questions and share your concerns. Just a friendly reminder to keep it civil! 4) Attend city and county meetings City Council, County Council Meetings and Board of Education Meetings are open to the public. Attendance is a great way to learn

how local government functions and may give you a chance for your representatives to get to know you. Are you concerned about what is happening in your schools? Listening in at a school board meeting is a great place to start. Are you worried about how your tax dollars impact roads or public safety? Your city and county’s websites will post the agendas and schedules for all future meetings. 5) Learn the process and use your voice Did you know that most legislative bills start as an idea from a concerned citizen?

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West Valley City Journal

County to provide youth with free rec passes and no library fines By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

alt Lake County's 2024 budget, unanimously approved by the council, marks a notable shift toward enriching the lives of its younger residents. Amidst a challenging fiscal environment, the county's leadership has strategically allocated resources to ensure that youth empowerment and education remain a priority. Central to this year's budget are two key initiatives: the My County Rec Pass and the elimination of library late fees for children and young adults. The My County Rec Pass Initiative A flagship initiative of the 2024 budget is the My County Rec Pass, an ambitious program set to launch in the summer of 2024. This pass will provide all school-age children and teenagers (ages 5-18) residing in Salt Lake County with free, unlimited access to county-operated recreation centers, ice centers, and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools. The program is a direct response to the growing need for accessible recreational spaces for the youth, promoting physical health, social interaction and community engagement. These passes will be available starting this summer. Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson, in her address, highlighted the significance of this program, stating that it represents a major investment in the county's youth. The program's funding comes from the Tourism, Recreation, Culture & Convention Support Program (TRCC), which is primarily financed through tourism revenue. This strategic funding choice ensures the program's feasibility without adding to the county's fiscal strain. “I want all kids, regardless of their parents' paychecks, to have the opportunity to access rec centers for free. To that end, I am proposing free rec center passes for all kids ages 5-18,” Mayor Wilson said. Elimination of Library Late Fees In a parallel effort to enhance educational opportunities, the 2024 budget introduces a one-year pilot program to eliminate late fees on all children's and young adult materials at the Salt Lake County Libraries, starting this summer. This initiative aims to eliminate financial barriers that often prevent young residents from accessing the library's vast resources. By removing late fees, the county intends to encourage more frequent use of libraries, fostering a culture of reading and learning among its younger residents. Wilson emphasized the importance of this change, noting that it will make the library's resources more accessible to those who stand to benefit the most. While the waiver of late fees is set for a trial period, it reflects a broader commitment to making education and learning resources more inclusive and accessible to all segments of

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the community. Balancing the Budget Amid Fiscal Challenges The introduction of these youth-centric programs comes against a backdrop of considerable fiscal challenges. The county faced a slowdown in tax revenues, inflationary pressures and rising healthcare costs. To accommodate these new initiatives, the budget includes significant cuts in other areas, such as travel expenses and operational budgets of various county departments. Despite these financial constraints, the council's decision to prioritize programs like the My County Rec Pass and the elimination of library late fees demonstrates a commitment to investing in the county's future—its children and young adults. Community Impact and Expectations According to the Salt Lake County Mayor’s office, the My County Rec Pass is expected to have a far-reaching impact on the community. By providing free access to recreational facilities, the county aims to offer a constructive outlet for the youth, promoting physical activity and deterring negative behaviors. Additionally, the program is seen as a stepping stone to discovering new interests and talents among the young population. Similarly, the elimination of library late fees is expected to bolster educational engagement. With easier access to books and learning materials, children and young adults can explore a world of knowledge without the deterrent of financial penalties. This change is particularly significant in light of the digital age, where promoting traditional reading habits is becoming increasingly challenging. Salt Lake County Council’s approval did not come without any scrutinization. The council had to balance other priorities in addition to these requests. “The top priority of the Salt Lake County Council is public safety,” said Salt Lake County Council Chair Aimee Winder Newton. “While we found cuts in travel and other areas, we made sure there was adequate funding for the jail, prosecution, behavioral health and areas that keep our community safe and healthy.” Looking Forward As Salt Lake County embarks on this journey of enhancing youth services, the success of these programs will be closely monitored. The efficacy of the My County Rec Pass in increasing physical and social activity among the youth, along with the impact of removing library late fees on literacy and education rates, will be critical indicators of the programs' success. “At a time when our kids are too often consumed by their cell phones and iPads, our rec centers are places where these

Salt Lake County youth will have free access to county recreational passes. (Photo courtesy of Salt Lake County Parks & Rec)

Salt Lake County libraries will not assess late fees on children’s and young adult books in a one year pilot program. (Photo courtesy of Salt Lake County Library)

young people can explore new hobbies, discover new passions, and build community,” Wilson said. “This is important, especially at a time when we read report

after report of record numbers of children struggling with their mental health.” l

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3 reasons to celebrate your birthday By Holly Curby | hello@hollycurby.com

irthdays. The ancient Egyptians initiated them, the Greeks added their flare to them with the radiance of the candle along with its wish, the ancient Romans brought them to the commoner, the Germans added the cake, and even a song was written in the 1800s for the occasion. In America we celebrate them—for ourselves, for celebrities, for our nation—we even designate national holidays for them. There are many cultural differences in how birthdays are celebrated too. From the piñata and high-end quinceanera celebrations in Mexico, the custom of throwing yourself a party in Norway and the Netherlands, celebrating certain years according to the Chinese calendar in China (1st, 10th, 60th, 70th, and 80th birthdays), designating the first slice of cake in honor of the person in the room who is most important in the birthday person’s life as in Brazil, to even measuring one’s life by their kindness vs. years in Bhutan, Birthdays are a celebration of life and love. However, not everyone is into feeling the observation, warmth, and power of celebrating their birthday. To those, might we unwrap a few reminders as to the reasons why birthdays are to be celebrated: 1) Celebrating our day of birth allows us to reflect on life. The good, the bad, the ugly. To see where we've been, and how far we've come. Our trials and our triumphs. Our hills and our valleys. To think of the blessings from within the past year. The accomplishments that have taken place and even some goal setting for the year ahead. Yes to reflect on a life given, a life living, a life still to be lived. 2) Celebrating our day of birth allows us to gather with

others such as our friends, and our family—those who matter to us. This could be a party like often done for kids, or even an opportunity to serve. When my mom turned forty our church congregation came over to our new house to help us lay sod. The pandemic created some unique ways Listen to the full episode on Holly’s of gathering with others Highlights podcast (Photo courtesy of for celebrations such as Holly Curby) car parades in front of the birthday person’s home or social distancing BBQs. Oh, the gift of others in our lives. The gift to gather together. 3) Celebrating your day of birth allows you to be reminded that you matter. Not everyone is good about accepting compliments, gifts, or even attention. This one day allows others to do such things for the birthday person who often is a little more receptive to such acts. Whether we realize it or not, we need the encouragement. A perspective shared in the Stanford Daily stated that a birthday is "A celebration of the sacrifices the parents had to work through, up to and including the immense loss of time, energy, and perhaps a career’s forward trajectory." Celebrating our birthday helps us take a moment to reflect on our lives, the sacrifices that have been made on our behalf to get us to where

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we are at, and perhaps think of what we may want to accomplish in the year ahead. So, this next birthday, instead of pulling a bah-humbug attitude, might we blow out the candles on our cake, surrounded by loved ones, and press into the unique sense of joy, laughter, and love as your friends and family choose to celebrate you? Want to learn more about intentionally living a life full of purpose? Visit www.HollyCurby.com or check out Holly’s Highlights podcast. Holly’s Highlights podcast is available wherever you listen to podcasts including Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, and even “Alexa, play Holly’s Highlights podcast.”l

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Birthday celebration (Photo courtesy of Holly Curby)

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Zions Bank economist pegs 2024 recession chances at 50-50 By Brice Wallace | Salt Lake Business Journal

he economic forecasting season has begun, and Robert Spendlove has thrown out the first pitch. At the recent Zions Bank 2024 economic outlook event, the bank’s senior economist pegged the chances of a national recession this year at 50-50 but added that Utah likely would get through it OK. “I’ll tell you that that has been the thing that has gotten a lot of economists scratching their heads, because we all thought it was going to happen in 2023 and it didn’t happen,” Spendlove said at the event, held at the Zions Technology Center in Midvale. “I still think there’s about a 50% chance. A few months ago, six months ago, it was at closer to 65, 70%, so I do think that probability of recession has gone down, but there still are some of those factors that could tip the U.S. into a recession nationally. I think locally we are part of the national economy so we are exposed to that risk, but I think we’re well-positioned and if we do go into a recession, I think we’re in a good position.” Utah has been in a “good position” for several years now. Spendlove cited some U.S. News & World Report rankings showing Utah as the best state overall, topics in fiscal stability and the economy. Its population continues to grow, fueled by in-migration. It’s second among states with positive job growth since before the COVID pandemic, and its unemployment rate of 2.8% remains low. Utah also has seen its labor participation rate increase. However, housing affordability remains a bugaboo. Utah home prices relative to household income sits at 6.2 but should be about 3, he said. “What this is saying is, housing is too unaffordable in Utah,” Spendlove said. “Housing is very difficult, especially for low-income, especially for young families, people trying to get in. And how do you fix that? You essentially need to dramatically drop house prices, you need to dramatically increase income or you need to start thinking outside the box of what housing looks like. What we’re going to see is more multigenerational households, more multifamily households, and we’re going to have to start talking very seriously about thinking of different ways of what housing looks like in our communities.” Prefacing Spendlove’s presentation, Scott Anderson, Zions Bank’s president and CEO, likewise had an overall positive outlook for Utah’s economy this year. “As we head into 2024, our Utah economy remains strong and resilient,” Anderson said. “We continue to benefit from strong population growth and net in-migration, low unemployment and solid job growth. I’m confident that what we’ll see here in Utah will be a strong economy this year and that we’ll continue to thrive, even though other parts of the world and other parts of the U.S. economy may suffer a bit.” Most of Spendlove’s remarks focused on the national economy, which he said is still being distorted by the effects of the COVID pandemic. That is leading to a lot of economic uncertainty for 2024, just as it affected 2023. Last year, experts expected the economy to slow or contract, with a drop in GDP and employment demand. “We saw a little bit of that, but the economy ended up being very resilient and very strong,” he said. “We saw inflation has been coming down, employment has been improving, but people are still grumpy. That is one of the things that I hear all the time, is people say, ‘Well, you know, yes, things may be a little bit better, but they’re not the way they should be and they’re not the way they were

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As we head into 2024, our Utah economy remains strong and resilient. We continue to benefit from strong population growth and net in-migration, low unemployment and solid job growth. I’m confident that what we’ll see here in Utah will be a strong economy this year and that we’ll continue to thrive, even though other parts of the world and other parts of the U.S. economy may suffer a bit. Scott Anderson Zions Bank’s president and CEO before.’” GDP in the third quarter actually jumped, with 4.9% growth, but Spendlove told the audience that that is not an accurate reflection of what is happening in the economy. “I don’t think any of you think that the economy dramatically accelerated in the third quarter, but it’s some of those distortions from the pandemic that we have to be really careful about,” he said. “However, it’s very clear that we didn’t contract. In the third quarter, we didn’t contract in 2023, and this is a sign that the economy is much more resilient than we had expected in 2023.” Still, the economy could enter a recession in the second or third quarters this year, but he believes it would be relatively mild “and we’ll move through pretty quickly.” The big question is whether any “black swan” events— huge, upsetting surprises—would shock the system and amplify volatility. Nonetheless, consumer spending, which accounts for two-thirds of the economy, remains strong. Consumers “are all grumpy but you’re still spending,” he said. “That has been another one of the big surprises, is even with consumers being grumpy— you all went out and bought your Black Friday gifts and you all went out and got holiday presents for everyone and it kept the economy going—but you still are grouchy.” Spendlove foresees Federal Reserve interest rate cuts this year, inflation continuing to slow but remaining “sticky,” the labor market growing, unemployment increasing, the economy slowing but remaining broadly resilient, and international uncertainty and elections pos-

Zions Bank senior economist Robert Spendlove speaks in West Valley City at a recent ChamberWest event. (John Rogers/Salt Lake Business Journal)

sibly adding to volatility. Anderson likened the past three years to a roller coaster ride but added that the national economy in 2023 transitioned toward pre-pandemic norms. The Fed raised interest rates and tightened monetary policy, but the economy avoided a recession and remained resilient, he said. The Fed now figures to lower rates, with the first reduction as early as the second quarter. “And why would they do this? I believe that they looked at inflation and they saw that it had dropped dramatically from mid-2022 and where it fell from a 40-year high of more than 9% in June of 2022 to about 3% in November of 2023. But with food and energy prices coming down, getting to the Fed’s target of a 2% annual inflation rate could take some time. We’re not there yet.” Higher interest rates and housing inflation colored consumer opinions about the economy in 2023, but recent consumer surveys have found that people are feeling more optimistic about 2024, he said. “And this is important,” Anderson said, “as consumer sentiments can drive behaviors like spending and investments, often acting as a self-fulfilling prophecy.” l

February 2024 | Page 21

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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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