Fall. A fabulous time of year, and a reminder of the transitory nature of life. As we care for ourselves, others, and the earth, we all have a better experience.

One way to care for ourselves is to be prepared for emergencies. Our city received 1.2 inches of rain in 15 minutes on August 13th. Will you be prepared for the next emergency? Join us for CERT Refresher on September 17th. This is a great opportunity to refresh your knowledge, connect with local CERT volunteers, and learn how to help Cottonwood Heights be a more prepared and resilient community.

Life brings each of us great joys and also challenges. One of my favorite quotes: “Let us be kind to one another, for most of us are fighting a hard battle.” Every three years, Intermountain Health makes a community health survey available, and behavioral health is continually one of the top three concerns. Please call 988 if you or a loved one is in a time of severe stress. You’re never alone. Here’s a link to grief and bereavement support in Utah. I’m continually looking for more ways we can build stronger connections with one another. Please text or call me at 385-298-3407 with suggestions.

Who are the people in your neighborhood making life better? As part of America 250, we’re asking you to nominate someone who makes a meaningful difference in our city as a Neighborhood Hero. Please go to the city website and nominate by October 2nd. On November 12th , join us for a Star Spangled Finale to celebrate these helpful individuals.

Our lives are possible because of the air, water, and food provided by the earth. How are we treating the earth? Water quality in the Jordan River is declining due to litter and pollutants from our storm drain systems. The storm sewer drains rainwater and snowmelt off the streets, parking lots, driveways, etc. This water goes directly into the nearest stream or waterway without any treatment, so dumping something into the gutter is the same as dumping it into the nearest creek. “Love Your Watershed” started in 2020 to mobilize individuals and families to clean up trash and reduce pollutants.

I’m joining The Mayors Challenge and invite you to join me in two core actions. 1) First Friday Individual and Small Group Actions. On the First Friday of every month, step outside and clean up anything in the gutters, driveways and parking lots, park strips, and storm drains. Put these items in a trash can, recycling bin, etc. 2) Neighborhood-Scale Days of Service. We’re encouraging larger, organized cleanup efforts around parks, schools, and public areas. Gather your family, neighbors, business colleagues, or community and faith organizations to clean up trash on one of our National Days of Service: 9/11, Martin Luther King Day, Earth Day, or Independence Day. 

As we remove trash and pollutants, we’re helping The Great Salt Lake, which is where it all ends up if we don’t act. Join us to see a Sundance documentary, “The Lake”, at city hall on September 10th at 6:00 pm! Enjoy September as we care for ourselves, one another, and the earth. ■