"A community is only as successful as its weakest person," Seghini said, "and therefore we need to use our combined strength to eradicate weakness, to grow. Working together solves problems. Blaming each other does not."

Seghini has also brought multiple government organizations together to help the disenfranchised among her constituents. Planned Parenthood and the Salt Lake Valley Health Department have teamed up with Midvale and the Westminster College nursing program to reduce infant mortality in the city from 12 per 1,000 to just two per 1,000.

Part of that effort, for Seghini, is education for Latino girls and their parents about the risks of dating much older men.

"You've got to tell your daughter: You've got to be in charge, and we'll help you be in charge," she tells the parents, with the help of a Spanish-language translator.

Ed Seghini describes his mother, who raised him by herself, as a quiet but diligent hard worker who never expects to be thanked for her exhausting effort.

Like Loader, the younger Seghini has fond memories of his mother and homemade preserves.

As a child, Ed Seghini made cherry jam from a tree in his backyard. He wasn't too interested in jam, but he completed the project with his mother and a neighborhood friend.

Ultimately, the boy won second place at the county fair for his creation.

"It was really gratifying for me," he said. "At the same time, I really ended up succeeding."

And that's just what the mayor does, Ed Seghini said. She serves selflessly and pushes those around her to be their best.

Loader, who works with Mayor Seghini day in and day out, agrees. His eyes misting with emotion, he called the mayor an outstanding role model.

"I've never known a more Christian person in my life than Mayor Seghini," Loader said. "She really does practice her religion. She participates actively. I don't know how she does it."

E-MAIL: rpalmer@desnews.com