Murray City Journal DEC 2019

December 2019 | Vol. 19 Iss. 12

FREE

WHAT IS RECYCLABLE IN MURRAY?

By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

Y

es, recycle your Murray Journal. Yes, recycle your office paper. Yes, recycle junk mail (unless they have a plastic window). Murray City, as well other Salt Lake County cities, were caught off guard as some media outlets released a story from Trans-Jordan Landfill stating that cities serviced by the landfill would only accept corrugated boxes, cans, and plastic bottles for recycling.

“As you know, the Trans-Jordan Landfill, of which Murray City is a member, distributed a flyer to the press without Murray City’s approval,” Murray City Chief Administrative Officer Doug Hill said. “This led many residents in Murray to believe the city is changing/limiting its recycling program.

This is not the case. Murray City continues to allow residents to recycle clean aluminum and steel cans, junk mail, newspapers, office paper, wrapping paper, softcover books, magazines, cardboard, shoe boxes, food boxes, paper bags, and plastic bottles and jugs in their curbside recycling container.”

However, one resident’s mistake can contaminate a whole truckload of recyclable material, turning it into regular old garbage. The Trans-Jordan Landfill that receives recycling has had to send entire collection trucks of recycling to the garbage dump because the recycling material was contaminated with other waste products, especially food.

Trans-Jordan Landfill took the pre-emptive approach of announcing that they no longer accepted office paper, newspaper, junk mail, magazines and cereal boxes, restricting recycling to the “Big 3”: flattened corrugated cardboard (i.e., heavy-duty boxes), plastic bottles and jugs with necks, and metal food and beverage cans.

Murray City officials met Nov. 12 to discuss Trans-Jordan’s announcement and decided on a more preventive approach—to educate residents about the difference between

Murray residents who place contaminated material into their curbside recycling bins can cause whole loads of recycling to end up in the landfill.

(Photo courtesy Trans-Jordan Landfill)

proper recycling and bad recycling.

“Recycling contamination is becoming a problem in Murray,” Hill said. “A contaminated container can cause an entire garbage truck to dispose of its waste at the landfill instead of being recycled. The city is evaluating our contamination rate and discussing how we can better educate our citizens.”

The Trans-Jordan Landfill estimates that in Salt Lake County last year, about 19% of recycling was rejected and sent to a landfill due to contamination. That means that roughly one in five items placed in a recycling bin is not recyclable

through curbside programs, and this creates enormous problems for the recycling economy.

Used pizza boxes, potato chip bags, pet food bags, and used paper plates and napkins are just some of the unacceptable items that cause contamination. Grease prevents the paper fibers from binding during the recycling process, and this results in inferior paper quality. This also happens when paper plates and used paper napkins are recycled. Composting is an alternative to pizza box recycling. The box, along with paper napkins and food scraps, can be Continued page 5

UTAH’S #1 SEWER COMPANY

FREE DRAIN INSPECTION

…UNCLOG IT FOR $39

Call Today 801-758-2095 for a Free Estimate www.utahsdraincleaner.com

$39 Drain Cleaning Second Opinion on FREE your Main Sewer Line FREE Camera Inspection For homeowners only. One coupon per household.

Not valid with other any offers. Expires 12/31/19

For homeowners only. One coupon per household.

Not valid with other any offers. Expires 12/31/19

Licensed • Insured • Bonded • Over 50 Years Experience Local Postal Customer ECRWSS Scan Here: Interactive online edition with more photos.

For homeowners only. One coupon per household.

Not valid with other any offers. Expires 12/31/19

Thank You to our Community Sponsors for supporting City Journals

Presort Std U.S. Postage PAID Ogden, UT Permit #190

shop in-store shop or in-store onlineor online

Page 2 | December 2019

AshleyHomeStore.com AshleyHomeStore.com Murray City Journal

The world has gone digital.

The world has gone digital.

Internet service has become essential for success.

That’s why we created Internet Essentials. Internet

Internet service has become essential for success.

That’s why we created Internet Essentials. Internet and computers foraffordable income-qualified families.training is truly home internet, Essentials and computers for income-qualified families.

EssentialsSM is truly affordable home Internet, training SM

A Home with All the Amenities

Call or text today to schedule a tour!

801-432-7003

www.AbbingtonSeniorLiving.com $9.95 /month No contract No hidden fees

Call 1-855-8-INTERNET Call 1-855-8-INTERNET InternetEssentials.com or visit or visit InternetEssentials.com for qualifications and more information. for qualifications and more information.

2728 E 3900 S Holladay, UT 84124

REAL. LOCAL. SAVINGS. IE.Spectator Guide.AD.indd 1

2/8/18 12:10 PM

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

MurrayJournal .com

December 2019 | Page 3

Christmas in WWII-era Murray brought residents together

By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

C

hristmas in Murray has its traditions and charm that stirs nostalgia in many: everything from decorations along State Street and the lighting of the city hall Christmas tree to visiting Santa at Fashion Place Mall.

Christmastime in Murray during World War II was unique in how it brought the community together as it never had before.

At the beginning of December 1941, most storefronts along State Street had just decorated for the holiday, and the light posts had received their holiday trim. Of course, Dec. 7, the day that would live in infamy, cast uncertainty on the nation’s, let alone Murray’s, Christmas holiday.

The Murray Eagle wrote, “While the experts said that Japan might last two months at best, we learn that the Land of the Rising Sun is equipped for a year’s determined effort against both America and Britain. What most of us have been afraid to think of as reality has finally arrived. We cannot remain a comfortable spectator to the drama.”

There was great concern that December that Japan would strike again, even by sabotage. Several explosions rattled Murray just days after the attack on Pearl Harbor, but the commotion was the result of steam and gases at Murray’s smelters. Still, two weeks after the attack, 770 Murrayites signed up for the armed forces, with some spending Christmas at basic training.

One year later, Murrayites were doing their part for the war effort. As every resource was directed toward helping America and its allies, ordinary citizens were asked to do their part and ration everything from gasoline and tires to food (especially meat). Percy Richardson, chairwoman of the city’s “Share the Meat” campaign, encouraged Murrayites to consider consuming the less-sought-after kidneys, liver, brains, tongue and sweetbread (no, it is not sweet nor is it bread) for their Christmas dinners.

Journals

Murrayites identified as (standing, left to right): Mrs. Lyman, Mrs. Leetham, and Violet Tracy buy war bonds from (seated) Mrs. Payne and Mrs. Merrimase. (Photo courtesy Murray Museum)

Stores throughout Murray offered patrons the opportunity to have their groceries delivered in order to cut down on unnecessary use of gasoline and vehicle wear-and-tear.

Mountain States Telephone and Telegraph company pleaded with callers to keep their long-distance holiday calls at a minimum to keep the lines clear for necessary war-related calls.

Murray Air Raid Wardens were called to attention at the Christmas of 1942, as many failed to show up for the training. Murray City abstained from decorating the lampposts this year, too. “We are seriously short of manpower and are going to do without street decorations this year,” Mayor Curtis Shaw said. On the positive side, St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church and several Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints congregations partnered to put on a Victory Ball at Murray High School

to raise funds for the USO.

By Christmas of 1943, the experts had been proven wrong about a quick war, and the grim realities were settling in. After several years of not knowing, Charles Bradfield’s family finally received word that the former Murrayite was alive in a Manila, Philippines, prison camp. On a happier note, Brent Erickson was able to return home for the holidays that year. Erickson survived being on the minelayer USS Oglala when it was sunk at Pearl Harbor.

War bond drives were in full force, and Murrayites were recognized for their generosity in December 1944—they exceeded their quota by 49%. Murray businesses, like JC Penney, not only pitched their holiday sales in the newspaper but dedicated advertising space to encourage shoppers to buy a war bond as well.

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

MURRAY CITY TEAM

The Murray City Journal is a monthly publication distributed directly to residents via the USPS as well as locations throughout Murray.

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 | December 2019

MURRAYJOURNAL.COM FACEBOOK.COM /MURRAYJOURNAL/

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 | advertise@thecityjournals.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Zander Gates | zander.g@thecityjournals.com Keith Curtis | keith.c@thecityjournals.com

TWITTER.COM /MURRAYJOURNAL

Finally, the war was over in 1945, and Murray had changed along with the rest of the world. Murray City, still low on human resources, had the assistance of the Lions Club to decorate the city’s streets for the first time in three years. As presents to all returning servicemembers, the town presented certificates of honor.

The Murray Eagle took note of the changes that happened over the past Christmas seasons in an editorial on their front page.

“In our little journeys here and there around town, it appears that this Christmas will be more filled with the old-time spirit of the time than a good many years. Goods are more plentiful, and there is more money to spend.

But far more important than these is the fact that most of the boys who were on foreign soil last year are home again. From all of us to all of you: a very merry Christmas.” l

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 Debbie Funk Amanda Luker Wayland Holfeltz Stacy Bronson

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

MURRAY CITY JOURNAL

9500 South 500 West, Suite 205 Sandy, UT 84070

PHONE: 801-254-5974

FREE | COMMUNITY | PAPERS

Murray City Journal

Hope floats, especially for Murray’s Clark Chamberlain

Continued from front page

By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

I

f you watched the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade or plan on watching the Rose Bowl Parade, you might be impressed to ask who comes up with all those float ideas. Murray is fortunate to have Clark Chamberlain, a designer of hundreds of floats, and he can tell you that it takes a little bit of craziness to come up with some of those awe-inspiring floats.

“About 30 years ago, I was working for Modern Display. They asked me, ‘Can you design parade floats?’ I needed the money, so I fibbed and said yes,” Chamberlain said.

“So, it was kind of a fake it ’til you make it thing. I took that approach to a lot of new things back in the day.”

The majority of Chamberlain’s floats are for the Days of ’47 Parade. He also does a lot of the floats for small-town parades in northern Utah.

“I generally do a lot of floats for cities and towns, businesses, and a handful of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ (LDS) stakes for Days of ’47. I did a float last year for the local Sikh temple. It was way cool to learn about their culture and beliefs,” Chamberlain said.

The Holladay native was inspired by his Olympus High School art teacher, Clyde Smith, who encouraged him to study art further at Utah State University. Chamberlain added, “But you don’t go to school to learn float design.”

“Somehow, along the way, I learned how to conceptualize and draw the craziness in my head. I like how my children described what I do: ‘Dad colors for a living.’”

Chamberlain’s float designs can range from fantastical fairytale lands to steampunk vibe, and he gets his inspiration from a variety of sources, including his own near-death experience.

“Seven years ago, I nearly died following heart bypass surgery. While recovering in the hospital, I was heavily medicated, and I hallucinated quite a bit. At that point, I thought I was in a cute kid’s room with fun characters on the walls. The next year I incorporated what I had imagined into a float design. Weird, huh?”

Still, clients and float committees can be a challenge to work with. According to Chamberlain, “Clients will often insist you include an element(s) in the design that is boring or ugly. Sadly, these objects have a tendency to consume a large portion of the float budget. Designing to please an entire float committee can be very difficult—lots of opinions and fragile egos.”

Instead, Chamberlain recommends that those tasked with coming up with float ideas stick with a few pointers that have helped his floats pick up numerous honors and awards.

“Fun is better than serious. Colorful is better than reality. Simple is better than complex.

Ignore the theme. It doesn’t matter as much

MurrayJournal .com

as you think it does. Oops, did I say that?”

This past year, Murray’s parade included two of his creations. The Murray Parkway LDS Stake’s float received several awards.

(See Murray Journal’s “Murray neighbors hope float takes flight”) It was designed as a Jules Verne fantasyland of animals and children. He has designed a number of Murray City’s official float entries that appear in many Independence Day and city festival parades.

One of Chamberlain’s all-time favorite

float experiences wasn’t necessarily in the designing of it, but in its coming apart.

“Designing a float is always fun but rarely funny. However, the funniest float-related Glass for recycling can only be left in specified conexperience was my wife driving the Rose tainers at Germania and Murray Parks. (Photo CourPark Stake float after the parade was over. tesy Murray City) I was following her, and she was driving at speeds meant for normal traffic. Foam leaves, flowers, and floral sheeting were flying off the float, littering the streets like Hansel and Gretel’s breadcrumbs. I have never laughed so hard while yelling so loud.” l

Not acceptable in Murray’s curbside recycling bins are plastic bags and plastic food containers. (Photo courtesy Trans-Jordan Landfill)

Clark Chamberlain works on his latest parade float creation. (Photo courtesy Clark Chamberlain)

Christmas packages starting at $150.

Pro gear 18 month, no interest financing* We price match**

5979 S State Street, Murray 801-466-8666 www.guitarczar.com

Mentio get a fren this ad to e or polishpick pack cloth!

*On Approved credit. See store for details. **In stock items only. Employee must verify ad.

tossed directly into your organics collection.

Also not recyclable are plastic bags and plastic film products, such as produce bags, dry cleaning bags, wrapping around paper towels, diapers, and furniture. Some grocery stores do have a plastic bag recycling receptacle, often in the lobby of the grocery store, for collection. Stores that do participate in bag recycling are listed on the website www. plasticfilmrecycling.org.

Other things considered not recyclable include items like Styrofoam, shredded paper, wet paper, hardcover books, batteries, clothing, vinyl, plastic cups and utensils, glass, and garden hoses. Batteries can be taken to Murray Public Services, 4646 S. 500 West, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Glass recycling can be taken to Germania Park and Murray Park, where large recycling bins are available.

Shredded and wet paper can be used as compost with other organic material in compost bins, available for purchase at some retailers.

Also, do not bag your recycling. If you must line your indoor recycling containers, empty the recycling into the curbside recycling bin without the liner. Put all the recyclables loosely in the recycling container. And always rinse out metal food and beverage containers so that the contents will not spill out and contaminate other recyclable material in the bin.

Landfills across the United States have had to review recycling practices since China – a major importer of recyclables – recently issued new rules on the types of materials it will accept, including a 0.5% max on contaminated recycling.

More information on what is acceptable in Murray City’s curbside recycling can be found at www.murray.utah.gov. l

December 2019 | Page 5

Jolly and Well – Murrayite columnist JoAnn Jacobsen-Wells finds contentment in service

By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

S

omeone once told JoAnn Jacobsen-Wells that the two first things he read in each edition of The Salt Lake Tribune were the obituaries, to see who died, and “Rolly & Wells,” to see who was about to. The Murray columnist, along with her co-writer, Paul Rolly, caused numerous Utah power players to cringe when they were called on the carpet, often hilariously, in their popular newspaper column.

The former Murray High cheerleader was hired at the Tribune at age 20 as an obituary writer. “Mortuary directors would quip that people were dying to get into my column,” Wells said. She recalls the newsroom’s floor, covered with cigarette butts and wastebaskets filled with mini bottles, and she was given the nickname of “Fifi,” a politically incorrect term of endearment. It was the glory days of journalism—made colorful by such recognized writers as Dan Valentine, John Mooney, and Don Brooks (the “dead fish editor”).

“Despite the unique personalities of each reporter and editor, we were a family— dedicated to providing accurate information to the public,” Wells said. “Paul Rolly joined The Tribune as a copy boy, so we grew up in the business together, finally becoming coauthors of ‘Rolly & Wells.’”

Wells started at the Tribune in the 1970s, then took a post at the Deseret News until being coaxed back to the Tribune in 1992 to be paired with Rolly. Wells calls her 14 years as a columnist the highlight of her career.

“While we took our responsibility seriously, Paul and I also had a lot of fun and often were a bit mischievous. When we heard that The Deseret News was thinking about changing its name, we quickly went to the Department of Commerce and registered all the names the News was considering.”

The award-winning columnist left her gig to take on a more significant challenge— high school students. She retired several years ago, after teaching in Brighton High School’s English Department.

Page 6 | December 2019

JoAnn Jacobsen-Wells poses with an Ethiopian girl, one of many girls in need supported by her charity work with the Children of Ethiopia Education Fund. (Photo courtesy JoAnn Jacobsen-Wells)

“I will always be a journalist and a strong advocate of the Second Amendment, but I am glad I am not still a full-time journalist. The profession has changed too much and is under constant attack by politicians who forget they are public servants. A free press is essential if our democracy is to survive. I cringe at the term ‘fake news’ because it not only is making people mistrustful of solid

journalists, but it is putting journalists’ lives at risk.”

In retirement, Wells is just as busy as ever. She still writes but also currently serves on the boards of numerous charitable organizations, such as Murray’s KidsEat! Foundation. Wells lived in Ethiopia for two years while a team of educators directed by her father, Dr. Gene J. Jacobsen, established the Department of Education at Haile Selassie University. Her memories of the East African nation have spurred her to help people struggling there.

“I treasure my past experiences, but I try to present and be dedicated to something much bigger and more important than myself. Because I have had a blessed life, it is my responsibility to help the less fortunate— which is why I became involved in Children of Ethiopia Education Fund, a Utah-based charity that sponsors the education of the poorest of poor Ethiopian girls.”

After co-authoring “Mac Attack!” about former University of Utah head football coach Ron McBride, they have remained close friends, both having a passion for help-

ing kids. McBride asked Wells to become executive director of The Ron McBride Foundation (RMF), which raises money to fund after-school programs for at-risk children and youth in Utah’s Title 1 schools. At-risk teenagers are prime targets for gangs, stress, bullying, depression, boredom, social isolation, absenteeism, drug abuse, suicidal thoughts and food insecurity.

This year, Wells will be raising funds at “Coach Mac’s Holiday Extravaganza,” to be held Sat., Dec. 7, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Holladay City Hall, 4580 S. 2300 East, Holladay. It is free to the public, who can have their photos taken with Santa and McBride—free of charge. Among the vendors will be Children of Ethiopia Education Fund crafts and Bliss Wreaths (plus jewelry, baked goods, Ute memorabilia and a silent auction). Among the groups performing at the party are the Highland Jr. High School cheerleaders and West Jordan Middle School jazz band.

More information found online at coeef. org (Children of Ethiopia Education Fund) and theronmcbridefoundation.org. l

Murray City Journal

Murray City authorizes $37 million bond for new city hall

By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

I

nstead of holding a vote to allow Murray residents to approve a General Obligation Bond to fund the new city hall, the city has decided to pursue a Lease Revenue Bond, which requires no vote for the $37 million to fund construction. The City Council authorized the mayor’s request at the Nov. 12 council meeting.

At the Oct. 15 Municipal Building Authority Meeting, Finance Director Brenda Moore said, “Having worked here for eight and a half years, I now know why we need a new city hall. Besides leaky plumbing, bad windows, and having to send citizens to other buildings for permits or business licenses, when we have an earthquake, it is almost a guarantee that the building will collapse.”

“We not only have first responders in this building, but very valuable employees, both to us and their families,” City Councilor Dale Cox said. “If the Wasatch Fault so much as burps, this building is going to come down, and we need to do something about that.”

For funding large capital projects, a city generally offers a bond to fund construction of them. By buying a bond, the bondholder primarily lends money to the town, while they also receive interest with the return of the investment over time. Of the two most common municipal bonds, general obligation and revenue, Murray City chose revenue bonds as these are not backed by the government’s taxing power but by revenues from a specific project or source, such as highway tolls or lease fees.

Specifically, Murray chose a lease revenue bond, which means Murray is backing the bond with revenue from the city’s general fund. This type of bond also says the city will pay back the relationship with higher interest rates.

Murray’s general fund is not only funded by sales taxes but by transfers from its enterprise funds, such as Murray Power’s collections. Murray City Power, Water and Wastewater and Solid Waste funds transferred nearly $4,056,368 in June of this year into the general fund, roughly 8% of enterprise revenues.

Should Murray be impacted negatively to the point of not being able to pay back the bond, then the bondholder could place a lien on the city hall project. If the city had chosen a lower-interest-bearing general obligation bond, they would have had to put that to a citywide vote, as the full faith and credit (taxes) would be paying the interest on it.

For the new City Hall, Murray City will enter into a ground lease agreement. The city leases the ground to a Local Building Authority (LBA), typically the project owner or bond issuer. The town will hold title to the property, but the LBA is given use of the

property for the term of the lease.

Likewise, Murray enters into a municipal lease agreement with the intent of the lessee (Murray) to purchase and take title to the property. The financing is a full payout contract with no significant residual or balloon payments at the end of the lease term.

The Murray City Hall bond is set for 31 years at 5.50% at a maximum interest rate; however, the actual rate will likely be lower.

11 Critical Home Inspection Traps to be Aware of Before Listing Your Home for Sale

According to industry experts, there are over 33 physical problems that will come under scrutiny during a home inspection when your home is for sale.

A new report has been prepared which identifies the eleven most common of these problems, and what you should know about them before you list your home for sale. If not identified and dealt with, any of these 11 items could cost you dearly in terms of repair. Knowing what you’re looking for can help you prevent little problems from growing into costly and unmanageable ones.

To help home sellers deal with this issue before their homes are listed, a free report has been compiled which explains the issues involved. To order this FREE Special Report, call toll-free 1-844-873-1717 and enter ID#2019, to hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report You can call any time, 24/7, Or visit www.UtahHomeInspectionTraps.com and download your FREE special report NOW. Learn how to ensure that a home inspection doesn’t cost you the sale of your home.

This report is courtesy of Marc Huntington – Coldwell Banker. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. Copyright 2011

An overlay of the new city hall shows that it will be placed over the current fire station on 4800 South, and Hanauer Street will be extended southward through Fifth Avenue. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)

Brent Barnett commented in the public hearing portion of the Oct. 15 city council meeting, accusing the city of not being transparent in the process. “Yet there is no way in the world that this is a transparent action.

No matter what the source of the money. No matter how the bond is made. If we believe in transparency, this simply doesn’t make anyone proud.”

Murray City posted notice of the first bond discussion 15 days before the city council’s Committee of the Whole meeting and provided a public comment period between the Oct. 15 and Nov. 12 city council meeting when the resolution was adopted. l The northside of the Murray City Hall will include the entrance for the police station. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)

MurrayJournal .com

December 2019 | Page 7

POSTPONE YOUR HEADSTONE

Dont Text & Drive

Nearly 330,000 injuries occur each year from accidents caused by texting while driving.

1 out of every 4 car accidents in the United States is caused by texting and driving.

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

Helping Families Heal for Over 130 years

LarkinMortuary.com Page 8 | December 2019

Murray City guts historic preservation regulations

By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

W

hat value is history to a community versus that of the actual property owner? Murray City’s Department of Community and Economic Development (CED) has proposed gutting regulations designed to protect historic buildings in the Murray City Center District (MCCD).

Last year, Murray City lost a lawsuit wherein a judge declared the city violated its historic preservation code and thereby prohibited the demolition of the historic Mount Vernon Academy buildings.

At the Oct. 17 planning commission meeting, CED staff proposed various zoning changes to the MCCD, including building-height restrictions, parking requirements, building curb setbacks, elimination of the Design Review Committee, and drastic changes to historic preservation provisions.

According to the CED’s proposal, “The intent of the changes proposed here is to spur development, restore basic property rights, and limit some of the regulation that hinders redevelopment in the MCCD area.”

One of the core proposed revisions is to remove the list of historically significant buildings from the ordinance; however, the directory will still exist but will no longer be codified. CED staff propose that they will maintain the list of historic properties instead.

“In a full restoration of private property rights, property owners will be able to request removal from the list by submitting a written request to CED or the mayor’s office,” CED’s proposal said.

“Developers should not have rights over citizens that value their history and their architecture,” Historic Murray First Foundation founder Kathleen Stanford said. “Are historic properties the problem here? Are they the real reason that the downtown area is not being renovated? I wish we could just get together and find a way. I think that we could be creative enough to find a way to solve some of these problems.”

Many buyers have looked at purchasing the former Mount Vernon Academy, which includes several buildings that are over a century old, including the Murray First Ward and the Carnegie Library. The Murray First Ward has significant deterioration issues that require expensive repairs.

“My family is very much in favor of the ordinance change. We have suffered great financial strain because of the current ordinance that is in place,” Mike Lambson, owner of the buildings, told the planning commission. “We definitely have felt that our property rights have been violated these last four years. It almost seems that our neighbors have more property rights than we do.”

Murray’s CED proposes that if the owner of a historically significant property does not wish to keep or renovate a building on

Murray City Planning Commissioners Ned Hacker and Phil Markham recommended against some changes to the Murray City Center District code.

(Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)

the historic property list, a monument noting the historical significance of the property would be required if it is demolished. If the property owner proceeds with this route, the History Advisory Board will be involved with approving the monument. The History Advisory Board rejects the relegated role that the CED proposes.

“According to Murray Code…the major purpose of the History Advisory Board is to advise officials to the city regarding the identification and protection of local historic and archeological resources and to encourage historic preservation by maintaining a local register of historic structures,” explained Rebecca Santa Cruz, chair of the Murray History Advisory Board.

The planning commission voted to recommend to the city council most of the changes, but it voted not to include the proposed changes for eliminating the Design Review Committee (DRC) and the historic preservation section of the code.

“I have a great concern with eliminating the DRC…I feel it is important for their eyes to review items in this area,” Planning Commissioner Phil Markham said. “This is an attempt to spur some action (in the MCCD), and I support it for the most part. But my two concerns are the DRC removal, and I am not comfortable with an individual property owner saying they can remove their structure from a historic site.”

At the Nov. 19 city council meeting, the council heard public comments regarding the CED’s recommendations including from both Mike Todd, owner of the Desert Star Playhouse, and Susan Wright, who restored and sold several buildings to the city within the MCCD. Both spoke in favor of changing the regulations. In the end, the council sided with the Planning Commission in retaining the DRC, amended the code to encourage environmentally sustainable buildings, but allowed the historic regulations to be changed. l

Murray City Journal

Kat Martinez elected to Murray City Council

By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

V

oters in Murray wanted change this last election cycle after sending both incumbent city councilors, including District 1 council member Dave Nicponski, packing in the primary election. Then, Murray City District 1 voters selected Kat Martinez over Jake Pehrson by a margin of 9%.

A third-generation Murrayite, this is Martinez’s first election. She has been serving Murray City as a member of the Murray Arts Advisory Board as well as serving on the Viewmont Elementary Community Council and the Utah Coalition Against Sexual Assault (UCASA) board.

“Campaigning in Murray has been such a rewarding experience. I have loved meeting residents, hearing their concerns, and learning more about our community,” Martinez said.

With Martinez’s election, Murray has its first-ever female majority city council.

She joins Councilwomen Diane Turner and newly-elected Rosalba Dominguez. Martinez was endorsed by all members of the current city council except for Brett Hales, who was running unopposed in District 5.

Martinez’s campaign focus was on safety, stewardship and strategic growth. Her safety platform called for collaborating with the Murray School District to fund handing

Brought to you by

out trigger locks at back-to-school nights and parent-teacher conferences. Other platform items included an annual neighborhood cleanup plan similar to Salt Lake City’s Call 2 Haul program.

“I think Murray is a wonderful city, and I want to make sure we keep it on the right path. A main concern of mine is to ensure that any developments in Murray are not just ADA compliant but welcoming and inclusive to all Murray residents, regardless of mobility challenges or other disabilities,” Martinez said.

One issue that Martinez will face immediately is the redevelopment of downtown Murray. Murray has begun construction of a new fire station and purchased property for a new city hall. The city has acquired the Murray Mansion and the Murray Theater and has zoning and design issues in the downtown area. Martinez has suggested finding a public transit solution to support Murray Theater’s lack of parking.

“I am very excited for the new city hall and optimistic we will have many more proposals for development in downtown Murray,” Martinez said. “As a community, we will have the opportunity to make our city center a vibrant and engaging space once again.”

Martinez is a graduate of the University of Utah with a BA in fine arts. She currently works at the State of Utah Department of Health Child Care Licensing as a trainer.

Before that, she owned a day care and was a middle school teacher.

One issue that was indirectly called out by her opponent during the campaign was where Martinez’s campaign donations were coming from. On his campaign Facebook page, Pehrson said, “The Campaign Finance Statements have been posted to the Murray City website. Do you know where your potential city council person is getting their money?” Martinez out-fundraised Pehrson nearly three-to-one, and she had some notable backers, such as Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson and State Senators Luz Escamilla and Karen Kwan.

Martinez responded, “As Financial Disclosures do not include the addresses of those who have donated, I find this type of speculation to be made in bad faith and designed to purposefully mislead. I am incredibly proud to have had 88 individual donors who donated a total of $8,050 to my campaign online alone. Thirty-nine of those donations were for less than $50. To have so many individuals believe in me and support my run for the city council with their hard-earned mon-

ey is beyond humbling. I am so grateful to my family, friends, and community members who believed in me and supported my run for office.”

Looking forward, Martinez maintains a positive attitude toward taking the oath of office in January. “I love this community, and I believe when you care about something, you should take care of it.” l

Kat Martinez greets visitors at her campaign table at Murray Area Chamber of Commerce’s Meet-the-Candidate night. (Photo courtesy Kat Martinez)

WINTER DRIVING SAFETY:

Siegfried & Jensen SNOW FALLS AND YOU SLOW DOWN

T

ACCIDENT? CALL US...

he long line at the local auto body shop isn’t The Utah Department of Public Safety sugjust for oil changes, it’s for winter tires too. gests on its website to have jumper cables, a With temperatures (and leaves) dropping, it’s tow rope and small shovel in case the car gets time for a refresher course on safe winter driving. stuck, reflectors or flares to make sure your car is visible to others driving, flashlight and bat1-Know the conditions Technology affords us the privilege of teries, extra winter clothes, first-aid kit, battery knowing road conditions before ever leaving or solar powered radio, sleeping bag, fresh water and non-perishable food, paper towels and the house.

Utah Department of Transportation has hand warmers.

more than 2,200 traffic cameras or sensors which gives visuals and data on all major UDOT roads. Drivers can then adjust their routes or schedules according to the heaviness of traffic making for less congestion and less risk for accidents.

The UDOT app means you can see all those cameras from your phone.

2-Prepare the car Make sure the car is prepared for the road conditions, first with good tires. Snow tires give greater tread for better traction.

Snow and ice should be completely removed from the windows, headlights and taillights prior to driving to ensure visibility.

If your car is parked outside overnight, place towels over the windows. This keeps the windows from icing over.

MurrayJournal .com

3-Control the vehicle Keeping the car under control requires some safe driving tips. The most obvious: drive slow.

Despite our impatience or urgency to get to the desired location, slow driving is the safest driving. Staying under the speed limit, which is meant for ideal conditions, becomes even more important when traveling over snow, ice, standing water or slush.

In drivers education courses, prospective drivers learn about the rule for distance between your car and the one in front of you.

Driving 60 mph? Stay six car lengths back. 70 mph? Seven car lengths back. This distance should be increased even more during wet conditions to allow the car time and space to stop without rear ending the vehicle in front.

WE CAN HELP. AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENTS

INJURY & DEATH CASES

FREE CASE REVIEW 801-214-1457 Se Habla Español!

Learn more at - www.siegfriedandjensen.com December 2019 | Page 9

Rosalba Dominguez elected in a series of firsts

By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

F

or Murray and Rosalba Dominguez, it will be a series of firsts with her election to Murray City Council: First Hispanic American on the council, member of the first female-majority city council, and first to be engaged-to-be-married while elected for city office. Dominguez defeated another firsttime candidate, Adam Thompson, in the Nov. 5 election.

Dominguez currently teaches art classes at the Clever Octopus, a local art advocacy organization based in Murray. She is also a freelance graphic designer assisting clients with various branding and marketing campaigns.

Although she grew up as a third-generation Murrayite, she attended Judge Memorial Catholic High School in Salt Lake City, where she met her future fiancé, Matt Park. After graduation, she attended Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara, California, where she received a bachelor’s degree in film and photography.

“When I returned home, I worked at Univision Television station as a producer, but after the market crash in 2008, I was at a loss and tried to find my way as a young adult,” Dominguez said. “I was always involved in my community, like volunteering to sit on boards along with the Hispanic Advisory Council under Governor Huntsman.

Page 10 | December 2019

Currently, I am the vice-chair of the Democratic Hispanic Caucus.”

These connections that she made early on influenced her decision to run for public office. She looked up to now-retired Utah House Representative Rebecca ChavezHouck as a role model, and many of her friends in the community groups she’s active with helped canvas neighborhoods during the campaign.

“I knew at a young age I wanted to run for office and make a difference in my community,” Dominguez said. “I had a conversation with my fiancé, Matt, and he asked, ‘Why don’t you run for office?’ I replied, ‘I would love to, but I’m not sure it’s my time.’

It took me a while to really decide, and my friend, who was involved in local politics, directly asked me. After everything, I am happy I decided to run because it was something I had always wanted to do.”

She will hit the ground running as a city councilor, with her district being ground zero for the Murray City Center District (MCCD) redevelopment projects. Some projects have already begun, such as the new fire station, while others like the new city hall are going through the bonding process. Citizens near the MCCD have raised concerns regarding high-rise development and loss of historical buildings.

Rosalba Dominguez (far right) held craft nights to raise campaign funds. (Photo courtesy of Rosalba Dominguez)

Changes to the MCCD Master Plan concern Dominguez, “Eliminating the Design Review Committee and eliminating the historical list raises major concerns for existing buildings. I would also like some clarity on the height increase for this area. If these changes pass through the council, do we end up with a design plan of a 15-story hotel? In walking my district, citizens did not want another hotel, and I know personally that the hotels nearby don’t fill up as they would like.

I don’t believe these changes in code from the Master Plan should be considered in one vote, they should be individually voted on, and we should re-evaluate.”

During the election, Dominguez’s opponent, Thompson, took issue with her campaign fundraising. Thompson posted on this Facebook page, “Know who your candidates are beholden to and from where their money

is coming.”

According to Dominguez, “All the money we raised came from friends, family, citizens of Murray, and a network that I have been a part of for years. I am proud of everyone who helped support this campaign, and the notion that I will somehow be beholden to one or several of our donors is disingenuous. Murray is my hometown. I was born and raised here, and it will always come first. I have built relationships with community leaders across the state, and I am proud of these connections. Murray has relationships with many state and county agencies, nonprofits, businesses, and labor unions that work here in Murray as well. Having these relationships in place that I have built over the years will make working and collaborating with the many different groups that directly affect us here in Murray that much easier. This is what I will bring to the council, and I believe this will open many opportunities to improve the quality of life for residents.”

In the end, Dominguez is upbeat about her future on the city council. “We are more diverse than we give ourselves credit for, and we should embrace it. Murray has always been progressive, and I am proud to be able to carry that tradition that has made our city the vibrant community it is.” l

Murray City Journal

LOOKING FOR PART-TIME WORK? WANT FLEXIBLE HOURS WITH HOLIDAYS AND WEEKENDS OFF?

Granite School District is hiring Kitchen Managers, Nutrition Service Workers, and Nutrition Worker Substitutes!

Applicants must have: High school diploma or equivalent, background check, and be willing to obtain a food handler’s permit.

• • • •

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner positions available!

15 to 40 Hours per week with Flexible scheduling!

Hiring at over 100 schools within the district.

Pay starts at $12.25 per hour.

ON-LINE Tickets On Sale Now LEARN MORE AT BRIGHTONRESORT.COM

Call Us: (385) 646-4321

www.graniteschools.org/ nutritionservices/jobs

NOODLE RUN The mission of Noodle Run is to become THE fast-casual Asian noodle restaurant in America by providing a filling and flavorful noodle experience! We pride ourselves on bringing you the Asian comfort food you’d find in mom’s kitchen.

R U O Y s food onate d r e c cal gro mycityjournals.com

Lo Beat Writer | writer@ By local

AEDRE

About the food- We serve Thai style Pho, Japenses inspired Ramen, various noodles with Curry Specials and Rice Bowls. Using the freshest ingredients, we create a flavorful dish full of meats and vegetables, proving that eating well can be good for you. When you visit Noodle Run, you will taste the difference in our food. Each entree is crafted with care and we take pride in making every customer a return customer.

Growing up in Thailand, with a grandmother who made everything from scratch, inspired chef/owner Anny Sooksri to bring all her favorites to her customers.

H

As a result, at Noodle Run, our food is always made in-house, using the freshest ingredients we can gather, with no MSG. We concentrate on quality ingredients without artificial additives, as well as flavor.

Address: 6014 South State Street | Hours: 10am-9pm

spapers unity new 13 comm for over 27 years es 5 cities serving 1 igital ad opportunit d d n s a lt t u n s Pri ackable re Real and tr

74 54-59 2 1 0 8 August

MurrayJournal .com

ge 7

2019 | Pa

December 2019 | Page 11

LOOKING FOR THE BEST BOARD CERTIFIED CHIROPRACTOR IN UTAH? HealthQuest Chiropractic

WE TREAT: • • • • • • •

Whiplash Low Back Pain Sciatica Disc Herniation Acute & Chronic Pain Car Accidents* Work Accidents

Our doctors have seen over 17,000 patients with a 96% success rate!** *Your auto insurance may pay 100% of your care, even if it is your fault. **Based on a third-party survey

A smile can go a mile – just ask Longview students

I

By Julie Slama | julie@mycityjournals.com

t was a flashback to the 1960s as Longview Elementary school children dressed in flare jeans, tie-dye shirts with peace signs, beaded necklaces and headbands.

“Peace, Love & Kindness” was just one of the themed days during their kindness campaign. Another day, students came to school all snuggly in their pajamas for “Dream of Kindness” day. And yet another day, they wore appropriate beach attire for “Ride the Wave to Kindness” day.

“We want to build up our community, lift up our kids and be thankful, show gratitude and be kind,” Principal Becky Teo said.

Teo said that the idea of a kindness week originated with the student council a few years back and that the studentbody supported it. Last year, it was held in the winter, but this year, the PTA wanted to introduce it at the beginning of the school year.

“The PTA has taken it on and it’s something they want to push,” she said. “The kids are writing kind notes to their friends, their family and neighbors and they’re doing kind acts in their community and with other schools. We’re seeing a change where kids are smiling, holding open the door, giving high-fives, picking up trash and just helping out.”

Many of the random acts of kindness are supported on a list that each student received, Teo said.

“Each day students are filling out kindness cards about kind things their peers have done,” she said, adding that those cards then are used for prize drawings.

Fourth-grader Zoe Noren said that she made posters for the cafeteria and wrote her teacher, Amy Patterson, a thank-you note in addition to smiling and greeting everyone with “good morning.”

“You want to be nice and friendly and kind to everyone because you want them to treat you that way,” she said. “When I do kind acts, I just want to keep doing them. It feels good to be kind.”

Classmate Jackson Taylor said he said hi to the crossing guard on the way to school,

Page 12 | December 2019

has given others’ compliments and slipped a kind note in a classmate’s backpack as a surprise.

Third-grade teacher Anne Kjar supports that action.

“It’s great when kids ask, ‘Can I put a kind note in a classmate’s backpack or desk?’

It’s the kind of kindness we should have every day. This gives kids a reason to think about it and act on kindness.”

Ashley Smith said a lot of her thirdgrade class have been writing notes.

“They’re excited when they can write notes or give pictures,” she said, adding that some attach candy to them. “One boy made bracelets for every kid in the class.”

Jackson said he wants to add a poster to those in the hall. Nearby, the posters stated, “Be the reason someone smiles today” and “Try to be a rainbow in someone else’s storm cloud; kindness matters.”

“I want to make a poster, maybe say be kind, stop bullying, so everyone can be happier,” he said.

Teo said that supporting a kindness campaign may help students be less aggressive, which could lead to bullying behavior and instead, be supportive and show gratitude for one another.

“We want to build up our environment,” she said. “We want to improve peer behavior, create a positive self-image and be supportive of those with mental health issues. Kindness is something that is needed in the world today.” l

“TIME SPENT WITH CATS IS NEVER WASTED.” Meet Marshmallow, a very handsome 2 year old, neutered male, domestic long-haired cat. Marshmallow is a very laid back, handsome, fluff of a boy. He loves people, does fine with other cats and just wants a nice corner to sun himself and get loves occasionally. This big boy is a little shy at first but then he warms up and gives lots of purrs. If you think this handsome boy will fit great into your home, come visit him at the Murray Animal Shelter during normal business hours.

CALL NOW FOR A FREE CONSULTATION 801.281.0555

HealthQuest Inc., 32 W 6400 S, Murray, UT 84107

Longview Elementary students embrace their kindness campaign through posters, T-shirts, themed days such as “Peace, Love & Kindness” and by other random acts of kindness. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

MURRAY ANIMAL

s h e lt e r

MURRAY

POLICE DEPARTMENT

5624 South 300 West • 801.264.2671 Monday - Friday 10am - 5pm

Murray City Journal

Wearing a hat or PJs? Chewing gum?

Easy Horizon fundraiser allows special privileges

T

here’s something special happening the last Friday of the month when Horizon Elementary students are in school.

In September, they wore hats. Another Friday they brought stuffed animals and wore PJs. Last year, there was a day they could chew gum in school.

It’s all part of the school’s reoccurring fundraiser, where students pay $1 to be a part of the Friday activity, said PTA president Maren Patterson, who adds that teachers have coupons they can give to students who they think earned a special privilege and not pay the $1.

“Last year, we started a monthly fundraiser where students can make the donation to be a part of the special privilege that usually isn’t allowed at school,” Patterson said.

Last year, they raised about $140 that was put toward school amplification in three rooms. This past September, they raised $205.

“Our fund is definitely growing as people learn about it,” she said. “And it’s an easy, fun fundraiser for the kids.”

Patterson is excited about the purpose of the fundraiser.

“We definitely have big goals,” she said.

“We surveyed our parents and were surprised

By Julie Slama | julie@mycityjournals.com in the response. What they thought was most important is an arts program, overwhelmingly it was No. 1. So, we’re directing our focus and attending to supporting an arts program for our students.”

That means, after the school’s traditionally bell choir season is over at winter break, Patterson hopes to bring in the Bad Dog Arts program afterschool.

“We know that there will be some students who can’t afford to be in the program, but that’s where our fundraising comes in.

We’d like to award those students scholarships and fund as many students as possible,” she said about creating an inclusive learning environment. “This is community helping to building community for all our students. It builds our culture as a school and unites us through this bond.”

The PTA also is supporting diversity and inclusion through highlighting several themed months, such as Black History Month and Hispanic Heritage. This, too, would lead into supporting an arts program at the school, Patterson said.

“We are hoping to have dancers, storytellers, food trucks and more to get hands-on experience with other cultures and be more inclusive citizens. Horizon has such a unique

Horizon Elementary students recently paid to wear hats at school as part of their monthly fundraiser that has an end goal of supporting an arts program at the school. (Photo courtesy of Janel Williams)

position to do that since many of our teachers in our dual language program are from other countries and our student population has such diversity from immigrants and refugees from around the world,” she said.

Patterson said that they are planning to hold a multicultural or inclusion festival, possibly in February.

“We’d like to expose our students to

learn about many different cultures. We’re really excited. We have never done it before although our dual immersion teachers have shared their experiences with their students,” she said. “We want to broaden the scopes of our students, build that culture, and work together for our students. It gets everyone involved and it’s powerful.” l

BUSINESS Pacifica Senior Living: giving 777 E 3900 S., Salt Lake Ciy, UT SPOTLIGHT Business Spotlights are a service offered to our advertisers to help them inform our readers about their businesses. For information on scheduling a Spotlight, please call us 801-254-5974 or email ryan.casper@thecityjournals.com

Pacifica truly feels like home (Photo courtesy of Pacifica Senior Living)

S

eniors sit among family and friends, relaxing on cushy couches and chairs and smiling as they sip warm drinks. It’s karaoke night at Pacifica Senior Living!

The opening bars of an Everly Brothers’ song roll over the speakers. Just like that, it’s the good old days again. Executive Director Stephanie Klingbiel knows every grace

MurrayJournal .com

note and tone and sings harmony to Ray, the team’s driver, who is also a talented singer.

The room becomes vibrant with energy as they sing the songs the residents love. Residents laugh and sing-along. Residents say, “Sharing this activity with staff makes us feel like a family.”

After enjoying the company of friends, residents head to the dining room to enjoy a chef-prepared dinner. Nothing comes from a can; ingredients are fresh, especially the homemade soups served daily. Breakfast is made to order and the chef offers two entrée choices for lunch and dinner, or residents can always choose from the “anytime menu.”

Residents and staff often say it’s the best they’ve ever eaten, and they feel pampered having delicious meals prepared for them.

Meals are easily adjusted for those with special dietary needs.

Residents return to cozy rooms they’ve personalized with family photos and decorations. Pacifica Senior Living feels like home.

“An amazing place for my mother to live,” says Pat, a Utah local.

Besides karaoke, other favorite activities include pet therapy, where puppies and kittens come to cuddle with residents; poker

nights; crafts; socials; card games and bingo.

Pacifica also has dedicated attendance at annual events, including: Mother’s Day Buffet, Thanksgiving Buffet, Father’s Day BBQ, Luau, and Annual Car Show. Sharon, the activities director, plans something for everyone and is a genuine friend to all!

Pacifica Senior Living’s central location places it in the heart of Salt Lake Valley. Residents opt for scenic drives, outings to theaters or other cultural events, and even shopping trips become fun when enjoyed with friends.

The community is lots of fun for children and grandchildren too, who enjoy visits from the Easter bunny, Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus, and a fun trick-or-treating parade.

Pacifica Senior Living’s community offers peace of mind for family members of residents, who’ve been caregivers to their loved ones and are often overwhelmed and tired. With loving care provided at Pacifica, family members are relieved to return to being sons, daughters or spouses and can again, enjoy quality time with their loved one.

The care each resident receives is individually designed for their unique needs and helpful staff are available 24/7.

While Pacifica is a five-star community,

“Pacifica Senior Living gives seniors 5-star amenities and the comfort of home” their affordable pricing often beats out the competition. In both 2018 and 2019, Pacifica Senior Living Millcreek won the National Caring Star Award for resident satisfaction, one of only two senior living communities in the state to be honored.

Come take a tour and see the beautiful living spaces for yourself! Residents overwhelmingly say: “Pacifica truly feels like home!”

Pacifica Senior Living is located at 777 E. 3900 South. For more information, call 801-685-3498 or visit pacificaseniorliving. com

December 2019 | Page 13

MOVE IN SUMMER 2020

50% SOLD

EFFORTLESS LIVING PROXIMITY RICH CONDOS Now Selling 33 Residences Secure underground parking Rooftop lounge, court yard & private balconies Stair-less design 2 & 3 bedroom layouts Designed to offer modern or traditional finishes and amenities within walking distance.

STAINED GLASS LAMPS

ARTS & CRAFTS CLOCKS

HAND CRAFTED TILES

HAND

SALES OFFICE: 2340 Phylden Dr., Holladay, Utah HOURS: Monday - Saturday 11:00 am - 6:00 pm (385) 237-5536 | www.stationatholladay.com

THROWN POTTERY COAT

RACKS

TEXTILES

SOLID WOOD KEITH RUST PRINTS ROCKERS

2892 S. HIGHLAND DRIVE Page 14 | December 2019

(801) 485-3606 Murray City Journal

Decmeber 2019

FREQUENTLY REQUESTED NUMBERS Attorney .................................. 801-264-2640 Business Licensing .................. 801-270-2432 Cemetery ................................ 801-264-2637 City Council ............................. 801-264-2603 Finance Department ............... 801-264-2513 FIRE DEPARTMENT Administrative Office .......... 801-264-2781 Non-Emergency Calls ......... 801-840-4000 General Information................ 801-264-2525 Heritage Center (Sr. Center)..... 801-264-2635 Human Resources.................... 801-264-2656 Library .................................... 801-264-2580 Mayor’s Office.......................... 801-264-2600 Municipal Court....................... 801-284-4280 Museum .................................. 801-264-2589 Murray Park Outdoor Pool ....... 801-266-9321 Murray Parkway Golf Course.... 801-262-4653 PARKS AND RECREATION Administrative Office .......... 801-264-2614 Rain-out Information ......... 801-264-2525 Park Center (indoor pool) ........ 801-284-4200 Passports................................. 801-264-2660 POLICE DEPARTMENT Administrative Office .......... 801-264-2673 Animal Control ................... 801-264-2671 Code Enforcement .............. 801-264-2673 Non-Emergency Calls ......... 801-840-4000 POWER DEPARTMENT Administrative Office .......... 801-264-2730 After Hours Emergency....... 801-264-9669 PUBLIC SERVICES Administrative Office .......... 801-270-2440 Building Inspection ............ 801-270-2431 Green Waste Trailers ........... 801-270-2440 Planning and Zoning .......... 801-270-2420 Solid Waste......................... 801-270-2440 Water, Sewer, Streets.......... 801-270-2440 Zoning Enforcement ........... 801-270-2426 UTILITIES After Hours Emergency....... 801-264-9669 Billing Questions ................ 801-264-2626

murray.utah.gov

MAYOR’S OFFICE

Mayor’s Message

D. Blair Camp -Mayor

New City Offices & Police Station to Finally be a Reality In 1906, three years after the incorporation of Murray City, a new city hall and jail was constructed at 4901 South State Street to address the growing needs of the new city.

That was the last time Murray built a new city hall. The building served the city well for over 50 years until 1957, when it was deemed no longer adequate to meet the needs of the city. In June of 1957, the city purchased the Soter’s Home Furnishings building at 5461 South State and that became home to the city offices in 1958. By 1980 the city had outgrown the old furniture store, and a decision was made to purchase and remodel the old Arlington School, the current location of city hall.

Now, 28 years after moving into this 80-year-old building, I am excited that Murray is on the brink of building a new modern structure to house our police department and city offices.

The new city building, which will be located two blocks west of State Street on 4800 South, will not only be a facility that Murray residents can be proud of, but it will breathe new life into an unsightly and underutilized area of our city. We anticipate that this project will spur additional redevelopment and rehabilitation of the surrounding properties.

This project is a long time coming, especially for the nearly 90 members of our police department who are cramped into inadequate space on the second floor of a seismically unstable structure. In addition to all of the departments currently housed in city hall, we will also be including Community and Economic Development in the new building, providing better “one-stop shopping” for customers that need to obtain a business license, submit a building permit, or talk to a city planner. Not to mention the many serious maintenance issues having to be addressed on a regular basis, such as a constantly leaking roof, failing HVAC systems, mold, plumbing problems, and more. It’s time for a new city hall.

Several conceptual site plans and building configurations have been considered over the past several years. The decisions surrounding lo-

Murray Library HOLIDAY PALOOZA

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The Murray Library will be celebrating the Holidays by throwing the Holiday Palooza on Dec 7 at 11 a.m. Bring the whole family and join us. There will be a photo booth, craft, story time, scavenger hunt, songs, and Santa! All are welcome. This program is free.

HOLIDAY HOURS

mayor@murray.utah.gov 801-264-2600

cation and configuration of the new city 5025 S. State Street campus involved many factors, especialMurray, Utah 84107 ly as circumstances changed. For example, an early discussion of a new building placed over the current 5th Avenue was abandoned after it was determined that it would be too cost prohibitive to relocate the many utilities that are buried under the street, including a major natural gas line feeding our turbine generators at the power department.

Rising construction costs have also played a major role in the current design. In order to help control costs, the overall square footage of the new building was reduced from 104,000 square feet to 82,000 square feet. A new city court in city hall was eliminated, as was a basement. A community room was removed in favor of designing the council chambers area to be utilized as a versatile multipurpose room. Early plans for a future innovation center were scrapped early in the design process.

Even with these reductions, the budget to construct the new city building increased in the past two years from an estimated $25 million to $28 million. The city will be funding the construction by utilizing lease revenue bonds.

I am very excited about the new police department and city offices, including a nice outdoor plaza area to be enjoyed by all. I believe the residents and business owners of our city want safe and efficient public facilities that we can all be proud of!

To help interested citizens become more aware of the city hall process, we have prepared a “New City Hall FAQ’s” page on the city website.

Please visit the link on our homepage at murray.utah.gov. If we missed answering your question, drop us an email and we’ll add it to the page.

The staff of the mayor’s office extends wishes to each of you for a wonderful and joyous holiday season!

166 East 5300 South • Murray, UT 84107 BOOK CLUBS IN THE NEW YEAR

The 2020 book clubs will be starting in the new year with all new books. The adult book clubs meet on the first Wednesday of each month at 12:30 PM and the third Thursday of each month at 7:00 PM. A new book club focused on the classics will be starting in the new year as well.

Visit MurrayLibrary.org or call 801-264-2580 for more details.

The library will be open Christmas Eve until Noon and closed Christmas Day. On New Year’s Eve, the library will close at 6 p.m. and will be closed on New Year’s Day.

Monday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Friday & Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND WE HOPE TO SEE YOU AT THE LIBRARY!

murraylibrary.org 801-264-2580

Murray Library Home

Murray Library Calendar

Message from the Council As we approach the end of 2019, it is often a time of reflection on the year past - the accomplishments personally and as an elected civil servant, as well as, looking forward to the goals on the horizon for the new year ahead.

Finishing up two years on the Murray City Council, I realize the many people who have been instrumental in helping me cohesively transition into the Council and those who have made significant contributions to what we do in moving Murray forward as the best community in the state.

We will soon be saying goodbye and thank you to two such people on the City Council.

Dave Nicponski came to the Murray Council eight years ago with a history in municipal government and many years working on legislative efforts. With the benefit of these past experiences Dave brought his knowledge and wisdom to Murray City and has focused efforts on the needs of public safety, capital projects and road maintenance.

Following the recession in 2008, Dave was instrumental in helping budget for the police department to acquire 26 new vehicles in a single year. At the State legislature Dave’s contacts and support of city issues has proven invaluable when his efforts combined with others to oppose bills that may have had serious consequences for Murray residents. Dave’s support of the development industry has resulted in many acres of formerly vacant land becoming tax revenue sources for the city. Dave has become a good friend, whom I will miss as he goes on to pursue other interests.

Jim Brass has served Murray City for 16 years as a council mem-

ber. With broad knowledge in many areas of city government, his expertise in the power industry has made him a leader and expert on issues facing the council about the future of power resource management. Educating himself on numerous civic matters, Jim has served on the boards of Central Valley WaDale M. Cox ter Reclamation (CVWR) and Wasatch Front Waste and Recycling (WFWRD). It may not District 2 sound glamorous; however, concerns of wastewater and run-off involve complicated science to treat and, representing Murray City, Jim has been an advocate for successful end results within financial limits. His service on the WFWRD board has brought the voice of reason when costs were increasing and now as recycling is at a crossroads. Jim’s background from a planning commission assignment has also helped decision making on the many facets of consideration on land use determinations.

As the end of their city council responsibilities approach, both Dave Nicponski and Jim Brass have served well and completed successful terms preserving the health, safety and welfare of Murray residents and business owners. I wish them the very best as they each enter a new season in their lives. Speaking for the entire council, we enthusiastically thank them for a combined 24 years furthering the prosperity of the City.

Murray Senior Recreation Center CLASSES & SERVICES Nutrition Class: Tuesday, Dec. 3, at 10:30 a.m.

Eating for Immunity. Ashley Quadros from Harmons will present this class. Free.

History Class: Tuesday, Dec. 10 at 10:30 a.m.- Free.

NAMI Class: The National Alliance for Mental Illness will be presenting on Wednesday Dec. 11 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Come learn more about the many resources that are available for anyone needing mental illness support. Free.

Grief Support Group: Tuesday, Dec. 13, 10:30 a.m.Free to attend.

AARP Smart Driving Class: Tuesday, Dec. 17 from 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Cost $15 for AARP members and $20 for non-members.

Medicare Counseling: Tuesday, Dec. 17, 12-2 p.m.

Appointments needed.

Vital Aging: Tuesday, Dec. 17, 1-2 p.m.- Free class.

Computer Individual Help: Every Tuesday from 1-3 p.m., Thursday from 2-4 p.m. and Friday from 9–10 a.m. One-hour appointments, cost $3.

–Dale Cox, District 2

CITY COUNCIL Council District 1 Dave Nicponski 801-913-3283 dnicponski@murray.utah.gov Council District 2 Dale M. Cox 801-971-5568 dale.cox@murray.utah.gov Council District 3 Jim Brass 801-598-7290 jim.brass@murray.utah.gov Council District 4 Diane Turner 801-635-6382 diane.turner@murray.utah.gov Council District 5 Brett A. Hales 801-882-7171 brett.hales@murray.utah.gov Council Administrator Jan Lopez 801-264-2622 jlopez@murray.utah.gov

#10 East 6150 South (one block west of State Street)

Winter Walking Club: We want to give you an opportunity to continue walking by offering a WINTER WALKING CLUB. Our goal is to walk to the City of Lights–Las Vegas, Nevada–which is 412 miles from the Center. Cost of the winter program is $5 and starts Nov. 1. You will receive a pedometer and monthly calendars. Prizes await those who make it to Las Vegas by the end of March.

Christmas Music: Friday, Dec. 20, 11 a.m.-noon.

Tony Summerhays will be performing.

New Year’s Eve Celebration: Tuesday, Dec. 31.

Festivities begin at 11 a.m. with finger foods, Bingo and ringing in the New Year at Noon. Cost is $5.

TRIPS

Toenail Clipping: Thursday, Dec. 26, 9:30 a.m.-noon.

Call or drop by to schedule an appointment; cost is $11 at the time of scheduling.

Festival of Lights: Thursday Dec. 5, Tuesday, Dec. 10 and Tuesday, Dec. 17 at 4 p.m. Travel to Provo Chuck-A-Rama for dinner then tour the lights at the mouth of Spanish Fork Canyon. Cost is $23.

EVENTS

Provo River Christmas Cruise: Thursday, Dec. 19, 9 a.m. $32 includes the cruise & dinner at Chuck-A-Rama.

Holiday Boutique/Craft Fair: Friday, Dec. 6, 10 a.m.3 p.m. Please invite family and friends to visit and shop at our annual Holiday Boutique! This year we have 13 artists selling homemade crafts in addition to our craft table.

Holiday Buffet: Friday, Dec. 6, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Entertainment by New Fiddlers.

Christmas Story Telling: Friday, Dec. 13 at 10:30 a.m.-Free to attend.

Candlelight Christmas: Thursday, Dec. 12, 4:30 p.m. $11. Travel to the Village at This Is The Place Heritage Park for an old-fashioned Christmas.

Wendover 2020: 2020 dates for Wendover are tentatively scheduled for Feb. 13, April 9, June 4, Aug. 13, and Oct. 8.

For information on these and other great programs call 801-264-2635

DECEMBER 2019 Murray Public Works Department MURRAY CITY STORMWATER NEWSLETTER FIVE-YEAR STORMWATER UTILITY FEE STRUCTURE July 1, 2020

$5.65 per ERU

July 1, 2021

$6.30 per ERU

July 1, 2022

$6.95 per ERU

July 1, 2023

$7.60 per ERU

July 1, 2024

$8.25 per ERU

The City Council recently approved a new five-year fee structure for stormwater rates.

Stormwater fees are used for projects throughout the city to alleviate flooding problems and to replace aging storm drain infrastructure.

On July 1, 2020 the monthly stormwater utility fee will increase from $4.65/ERU to $5.65/ ERU. An ERU (Equivalent Residential Unit) is equal to 3,400 square feet of impervious surface on an average residential property. An impervious surface is mainly artificial - such as buildings (rooftops), roads, sidewalks, driveways and parking lots. Rainwater typically runs off these surfaces and is collected in the storm drain system, which requires maintenance and infrastructure improvements by the city.

Each developed single-family residential parcel or duplex parcel will pay a base rate of one ERU ($5.65) per month. Each non-single-family residential parcel will pay a multiple of one ERU depending on the amount of impervious surface contained within the property.

For example, if an apartment complex has 34,000 square feet of impervious surface, the fee will be 34,000/3,400=10 ERU’s or $56.50 per month.

Stormwater fees have been used to complete many large-scale drainage projects over the last ten years, including new storm drains in 5900 South, 300 West, Allendale Drive, Capri Drive, Jamiah Drive, Brahma Drive, Hillside Drive and 5600 South. Currently, we are installing new storm drains in Utahna Drive, 300 West and Vine Street (east of 900 East). The stormwater fee pays for maintenance of 231 miles of storm drains, and the sweeping of every public street in Murray at least once a month. It also funds a comprehensive program designed to improve water quality in our creeks and rivers by reducing pollutants entering the storm drain system.

In the past year, city stormwater crews swept a total of 1,425 lane-miles of roads, cleaned nearly 1,200 catch basins and removed 1,950 tons of sediment and debris from the storm drain system and roadways. Crews also conducted 200 inspections at active construction sites to reduce construction site runoff and mud tracking onto city streets.

Additional stormwater information can be found at the Murray City Stormwater webpage located at: www.murray.utah.gov/156/Stormwater

MURRAY'S

Date: Saturday, December 7, 2019 Time: 6 p.m.

Location: Murray City Hall (front lawn) 5025 S. State Street

For additional information, contact Murray Public Works Department at 801-270-2440

Parking available in the back (east side) of City Hall

Murray Arts Beat

For additional information, please contact Lori Edmunds at 801-264-2620

Murray football team treats its fans to their first home playoff win in nearly a quarter century

A

Murray High School football season filled with many milestones ended on a sour note – as they do for every team that fails to hoist the state championship trophy – with a 49-7 loss in the second round of the Class 5A State Tournament at Olympus.

The Spartans’ final loss of the season came against the same Titan team that handed them their first loss – 42-7 in week four.

Under third-year MHS head coach Todd Thompson – a 1991 Murray graduate himself – the senior-laden Spartans enjoyed their best season in years.

Only two other schools, Highland and Brighton, defeated Murray during their 8-4 campaign. And the Spartans accomplished many things the team had not done in years: • First home football playoff victory since 1995 • First 3-0 season start since 1994 • Most points in a game (69 vs. Cottonwood) since at least 1970 (as far back as records go) • First road win at Skyline High School after 11 consecutive losses there • First time to host a state tournament game since 2004 “The kids practiced hard and paid attention to details,” Thompson said. “I’m very proud of them – and of our season.”

Placing fourth in Class 5A Region 6 – behind the only three teams to beat them all year, Olympus, Brighton and Highland – the Spartans entered the playoffs seeded 13.

In every season of Utah high school football until this year, predetermined playoff pairings guaranteed teams faced opponents from other regions. But format changes this year, in all team sports, determined pairings based on a rating system. For Murray, that meant rematches of Region 6 games, in both of their postseason encounters.

In their first home playoff football game in 15 years, the Spartans hosted the Skyline Eagles, the 20 seed, and beat them by a similar score to their previous matchup. The playoff winning score was 36-28 while the regular season victory ended 24-17 for Murray.

“Every year has gotten better and better (under head coach Thompson) and we are headed in a great, positive direction,” said MHS Co-Athletic Director Keeko Georgelas.

“I am super proud of Todd, especially as a Murray graduate himself. He cares so much about his kids. So far he’s right on target doing everything we want to get done.”

Despite all the team’s on-the-field success, Georgelas is even more pleased with what’s happening when football players are not wearing cleats and helmets.

“The best thing Todd is doing is making sure these kids are accountable in the classroom,” Georgelas added. “He has a study hall for them and our football player grades

MurrayJournal .com

By Carl Fauver | carlf@mycityjournals.com are better than they have been for years. I am just tickled pink.”

With improved records in each of the past three seasons, Thompson and his players will face a challenge keeping that string alive in 2020. Next spring’s MHS graduation will decimate their ranks. Of the 22 starting positions this season (11 offense / 11 defense), 21 were filled by seniors. Six of those were two-way starters.

“We do have some younger kids coming up – kids who played but did not start – so the cupboard won’t be completely bare,” Thompson said. “But, yes, we will have some holes to fill.”

Ironically, with seniors filling every starting position except one – when everyone was healthy – that lone, non-senior starter does not even attend Murray High. Freshman Johnny Brambila walked across State Street to attend practice each afternoon, from Hillcrest Junior High.

“That was one of my goals, to start varsity as a ninth grader,” Brambila said. “I was definitely nervous when practice first began.

But within a couple of days I knew I could compete with the older players. My little league coaches really prepared me for the challenges I faced.”

Playing Ute Conference football for Murray since age 7, Brambila has grown to a 6-foot-1 and 225-pound player. He started at defensive end and also saw extensive action at offensive guard.

“I feel great about our season; it was one of (Murray’s) best in year,” he concluded.

“What helped us is that we ended up working together well and bonding.”

Just a year older than Brambila, another key Spartan returner will be backup sophomore quarterback Kyler Nielsen, who filled in extensively as the Murray signal caller when senior QB Jarrett Henriksen was injured.

“Next season will be a big rebuilding year with 22 seniors leaving,” the 5-foot-11, 195-pound Nielsen admitted. “But I know we are motivated to work hard (during the off-

Sophomore QB Kyler Nielsen saw limited action behind senior Jarrett Henriksen this season, and will be the signal caller for challengers to try to beat out when the Spartans begin practicing for next year. (Mike Adams)

season) and I think we will be OK. This team was such a brotherhood. That environment of working together helped us all improve.

Coach Thompson did a great job keeping us all on the same page.”

A third key returner next year is expected to be 6-foot-1, 205-pound running back Dashaud Seymour, who transferred into Murray from Woods Cross High School near the end of last school year, and played football this season as a junior.

“Murray is a great place to go to school; I enjoyed it here so much more (than Woods Cross),” Seymour said. “I grew so close to my teammates as the season went along. It was amazing.”

“Kyler (Nielsen) is a hard-nosed athlete who gives us a good running option at the quarterback position,” Thompson said of his

returning quarterback. Of the other two key returners he added, “Dashaud (Seymour) will likely be a two-way starter next year, but he needs to focus on his schoolwork. And Johnny (Brambila) is a quick learner who might also start both ways.”

Thompson planned to end the season holding exit interviews with each of his players. He wanted as many of them as possible to compete for other Murray teams this winter and next spring. And, after giving them a couple of weeks to “decompress,” he anticipated getting them back, busy in the weight room, in December.

“We didn’t like the way our season ended (with the loss at Olympus),” Thompson concluded. “But we did have a better season than Murray has had in years. These are just good, hard-working kids. It was a fun year.” l

Make a Difference Today and Every day!

Help Seniors in their home Flexible schedule Training available Part time

For more information, call 801-316-1138 www.danvillesupports.com (meal prep., transportation, light housekeeping, companionship, Personal care, etc.)

December 2019 | Page 19

McMillan Elementary honored by U.S. Secretary of Education

By Julie Slama | julie@mycityjournals.com

O

n Nov. 18, when students and faculty returned to McMillan Elementary after the weekend, there was something expected and new at the school — the National Blue Ribbon School Award.

On behalf of the McMillan community, school principal Joy Sanford, school instructional coach Cynthia Richards and Murray School District Superintendent Jennifer Covington were to accept the award from U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos at the ceremony Nov. 14-15 in National Harbor, Maryland.

Students were made aware of their success late September at a school-wide assembly where they were congratulated by Covington and celebrated with confetti released

by Murray Board of Education members.

“This is their award,” Sanford said.

“These amazing kids showed what they learned from our dedicated teachers. We’re the first school in Murray School District to receive the award and it’s a pretty big honor.

Education is hard work so it’s rewarding for our students and teachers to be recognized.”

McMillan, which displays the award banner outside its school, is one of 362 schools in 46 states to be recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School in 2019, and one of only four in Utah. The other state winners are Juan Diego Catholic High School in

McMillan Elementary student leaders know they’re at a No. 1 rated school with their Blue Ribbon School announcement. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Draper, North Rich Elementary in Laketown and Crimson View Elementary in St. George.

The award is based on a school’s overall academic excellence or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups.

National Blue Ribbon Schools demonstrate that all students can achieve to high levels, DeVos said.

In her video message, Secretary DeVos applauded the 2019 schools: “We recognize and honor your important work in preparing students for successful careers and meaningful lives. As a National Blue Ribbon School, your school demonstrates what is possible

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

when committed educators hold all students and staff to high standards and create vibrant, innovative cultures of teaching and learning.”

McMillan, which serves neighborhood students from kindergarten through sixth grade, was nominated for the award last winter by the Utah State Board of Education as an exemplary high-performing school, Sanford said.

Upon receiving the nomination, Sanford filled out an application by late spring, with support of Covington and Murray Board of Education President Kami Anderson.

“It wanted our academic indicators in reading, math, science; our demographic data; our mobility rate; the number of free and reduced lunch students; the numbers of English language learners, special ed and disability students; our student to staff ratio, our past five years of attendance rate; a summary about our school and involvement of our community; our curriculum instruction; how we incorporate technology and so many things,” said the principal in her seventh year at the school. “It was like breaking down what we do each day and understanding the processes of what makes our school, how important it is what we’re doing and how what we’re doing helps each child grow and progress.”

The application also asked for end-

of-the-year standardized test scores. While McMillan is the district’s magnet gifted and talented program, Sanford said that this population is just 16% of the 530 students.

“We share this credit with all of our students and teachers. It is because of each student’s and teacher’s perseverance and hard work we have been able to reach high proficiency and growth levels,” she said. “Our population of students and families vary from some of the more affluent families in Murray to approximately 30% who are economically disadvantaged. Given this contrast, we come together united in purpose and expectations, celebrating individual strengths and progress of every child.”

At the ceremony, 312 public and 50 private schools were to be recognized. In its 37-year history, the National Blue Ribbon Schools program has bestowed this coveted award on more than 9,000 schools.

Sanford had hopes to exchange ideas and network with other school winners.

“I want to talk to others and learn what’s working and find common ways of success amongst the schools being honored,” she said. “We need to keep moving. We’ve seen the growth over the past five years; now we need to keep it up to continue to have a high level of growing.” l

Your Accident Center, Dr. Omar 141 E 5600 S, Murray, UT.

Business Spotlights are a service offered to our advertisers to help them inform our readers about their businesses. For information on scheduling a Spotlight, please call us 801-254-5974 or email ryan.casper@mycityjournals.com

Dr. Omar smiles with his two-year-old son, Omar Jr., and his one-year-old daughter Valerie. (Photo Courtesy Dr. Omar)

W

hat if you had $3,000 hidden in your pocket and didn’t know it — $3,000 you could use when you need treatment after a vehicle accident?

What if no one told you, and you ended up living with treatable pain or injury after a road accident because you didn’t know you already had the money to cover your treatment?

Your Accident Center, located in Murray, is the accident injury clinic you can trust.

You can and should be restored to full health

Page 20 | December 2019

after an accident, and you deserve to receive genuine care.

The expert staff, including an accident-injury certified chiropractor, a physical therapist, and a massage therapist, work together to heal and even prevent injuries throughout the whole body. The staff believes in not just treating the symptoms, but in getting to the core of the problem.

They can treat and prevent vertigo, sciatica, nerve pain, back pain, joint pain and more.

The clinic will help you access at least $3,000 to cover any accident-related treatment you need. If you’re driving legally in Utah, you already have $3,000 of Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance coverage.

When you experience an accident injury — anything from severe injuries to nagging pain — that money should be used to cover your treatment. You’ve already paid for it!

Sadly, using PIP coverage doesn’t benefit insurance companies’ bottom line. Sometimes injuries appear long after an accident and those who waited too long can’t access their PIP money because it’s too late and insurance carriers will often attempt to brush it

off as unrelated to the incident.

Getting treatment at Your Accident Center is easy and convenient. If you’ve been in an accident, bring your claim number as soon as possible and receive an evaluation. The professional team at the clinic will handle the insurance paperwork for you.

“I want people to feel that they can go to a place they trust,” says Dr. Omar Arrieta, the clinic’s founder and the only Latino chiropractor in Salt Lake City. It’s why he and his staff go the extra mile; he personally gets to know lawyers so that he can refer patients to only those who work in an honest way.

“He has treated me so well that I trust him with my wife and children, and he has done an exceptional job every time. When we see Dr. Omar we feel like we are part of his family,” says Daniel, a long-term patient of Your Accident Center.

“We believe that you should be pain free without having to worry about what your cost will be,” says Dr. Omar. Health Care is often overpriced; however, Dr. Omar keeps his prices low, believing that offering high-quality care without extra costs is the best way to care for his patients — and ultimately the

“Your Accident Center provides essential treatment in the aftermath of accidents through chiropractic care, physical therapy, and massage therapy.” best way to manage his clinic.

Health is your greatest asset. Invest in yourself today. With monthly memberships, each massage, alignment or physical therapy session is only $20.

Whether you’ve been in an accident or just want to care for your health, there’s no reason to wait. Call Your Accident Center or visit the office today.

Now through Dec. 31, you can mention this article and receive a first-time chiropractic evaluation and alignment absolutely free!

Your Accident Center is located at 141 E. 5600 South in Murray. Call 801-905-1466 or visit youraccidentcenter.com, where you can find out more or make an appointment.

Murray City Journal

Fall Festival intertwines art and fun as school fundraiser

Don’t forget your pet this

By Julie Slama | julie@mycityjournals.com

G

rant Elementary first-grader Graham Roseborough brought his mom, Whitney, and 3-year-old brother Owen to his school’s fall festival.

Together, they were checking out all the activities involved in the festival that was serving as the school fundraiser.

“We have a punch card so we can do everything – the spooky alley, silent auction, crafts, cake walk,” Roseborough said as she watched her boys play carnival games. “We ate pizza and the band sounds good. The decorations, music, art – everything looks fantastic.”

Grant Elementary’s fall festival fundraiser and art show featured the local live band, Gladstone; a silent auction featuring items made or donated by not only students and their families, but also local businesses; a pizza dinner; carnival games; a photo booth; and numerous activities, including the spook alley.

First-grader Dillon Gray and his mother were using their $15 punch card “to help the school,” she said. “He’s having a blast.”

Dillon said his favorite activity thus far was checking out the darkened classroom featuring three spooky figures.

“I like the spook alley,” he said. “My favorite was Frankenstein, but he wasn’t that scary.”

Frankenstein aka Jacob Yetter said that in studying about Frankenstein, he learned that the monster really wasn’t meant to be scary.

“I like getting into the character role,” said Yetter, who is a Murray High junior and member of the theatre department’s improvisation traveling team. “My friend’s mom

asked me to help out and it’s been fun.”

PTA volunteer Mikey Brooks Stephenson said that the parent group organized the event, with a goal of $8,000 in mind.

“The PTA has put a lot of effort into this event, hoping to bring in some much-needed funds into the school to cover the costs of PTA-sponsored activities and programs like our literacy night, science and technology fair, Reflections contest, art literacy and more,” he said.

Funds also help pay for 10 reading aides, who help with spelling, phonics, decoding, phonemic awareness and other reading and literacy techniques, fifth-grade teacher Jeanne Simpson said.

“The reading aides make a huge difference,” she said. “We’re able to break students in groups to target their learning.”

While the students were dashing amongst the spook alley and all the games, they also led their parents into their classrooms, where the adults admired the students’ artwork.

“The crowning jewel of this event is the artwork created by the students here at Grant,” Stephenson said.

Simpson’s class displayed two styles of art – string art pumpkins and fall aspen paintings. Attached to the artwork was the opportunity to purchase the student’s work.

“All proceeds from this event will go directly back to these budding artists to bring even more great fun to their school,” Stephenson said.

Simpson said the artwork fit the theme of autumn to go along with the fall festival.

“I love art. Each classroom did different art projects, all tying into fall or fall-related activities. The parents are stopping in each

classroom and they enjoy it. The kids like doing it. It’s relaxing and gives them a chance to shine,” she said, adding that they spend about 30 minutes of classroom time on the projects.

Several of the aspen tree paintings were amongst the baskets of food, Halloween items, books, wreaths and other items which families were bidding on at the silent auction in the library.

Michelle McSwain, who brought her fourth-grader Cruz Gardner, planned to take a break from volunteering with the crafts to look over the silent auction.

Cruz was in the classroom where his teacher, Ginger Shaw, also known in the community as “The Origami Lady,” was showing students how to fold bright colored pieces of paper, tying in math terminology.

“Learning origami and math are my favorites, but I like learning French, too,” Cruz said, explaining that Shaw teaches the class some French vocabulary throughout the school year.

Stephenson said that many people contributed and volunteered for the event.

“Some, myself included, have spent hours and hours trying to make this event a success just to bring more funds and happiness to the children at our school,” he said.

“We do it because we love them and love to see them excel in all aspects of their time while at our school.” l

McDougalFuneralHomes .com.

Holiday Season

Holiday pup wash!

1 FREE self wash this December.

Valid for first time visitors only.

4898 S Highland Dr Holladay, UT 84117 (801) 998 – 8457 petspawt.com

Ask us about all your pre-planning needs.

FREE Dinner Hosted by McDougal Funeral Homes Come receive valuable information about: • Pre-arranged Funerals • Wills • Trusts • Burial Plots • Cremation

Seminar Dates: Dec. 17th at 6:00 pm Golden Corral Midvale 665 East 7200 South

Dec. 18th at 6:00 pm Golden Corral West Valley 3399 West 3500 South

Please call to reserve your seat: Students and families passed through a dragon to reach carnival game and activities at Grant Elementary’s Fall Festival. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

MurrayJournal .com

Seating is Limited! 801-509-9798 Located at 4330 South Redwood Road, Taylorsville, UT 84123

December 2019 | Page 21

Buying or selling a home?

LET ME HELP YOU!

CAPITOL RAIN GUTTERS & EXTERIORS

Sincere thanks • Rain Gutters • Siding • Windows Highly Qualified Professionals

to past clients, present clients and fellow associates for making real estate a success for me.

I deeply appreciate your support and referrals.

A very warm Merry Christmas wish to one and all.

May 2020 bless you with Health, Comfort, Peace, Happiness & the very best of everything.

35+ Years of Experience “Real Estate Joe” Olschewski • 801-573-5056

www.CapitolExteriors.com Calls us Today!

801-253-2566

WE NEED YOUR INPUT

LOOKING FOR

HEALTH INSURANCE?

PARTCIPANTS EARN $50

OUR SERVICES COST YOU

NOTHING! 2020 OPEN ENROLLMENT - NOVEMBER 1ST TO DECEMBER 15TH

WE WILL HELP YOU APPLY! QUOTES | COVERAGE | TAX CREDITS | MEDICAL | DENTAL | VISION | OTHER

We can help you determine if you qualify for tax credits.

Individual/Family & Small Employer Group Plans available.

• Select Health • Regence Blue Cross & Blue Shield • University of Utah

• • • •

Cigna AETNA United Health Care Dental Select

• • • •

EMI Molina Guardian Lincoln

Call or text today: 801-997-8484 or 801-455-6272 Email: marciihp@gmail.com or dbradshaw226@gmail.com www.intermountainhealthplans.com

Page 22 | December 2019

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED CALL 801-515-3805 OR EMAIL FOCUS@THECITYJOURNALS.COM

Murray City Journal

Good Principles for

Government Budgeting E

Salt Lake County Council | Aimee Winder Newton | District 3

very fall, Salt Lake County goes through its annual budget process. As the government entity with the second largest government budget in Utah (coming behind only the state budget itself), there are a myriad of programs, services, and expenditures that comprise the now $1.4 billion budget.

In addition to the statutorily required functions that include assessing and collecting taxes, running elections, and core criminal justice/public safety roles, there are quality of life functions that make Salt Lake County a better place for families to flourish. These include our regional parks, recreation centers, open space, libraries, and other regionally significant amenities - some of which are funded through tourism dollars.

I love living in Salt Lake County, both for the quality of life as well as the fact that we work hard to tackle tough challenges like childhood trauma, poverty, affordable housing, and more. It’s very important to me that county government performs its essential and important functions with integrity, transparency, and efficiency.

The budget season is a time when I and my colleagues on the council must act in an oversight role over the executive branch to ensure funds are spent in accordance with the principles above. This is particularly important this year, given that the County Mayor’s proposed budget includes a nearly $18 million property tax increase. My goal is to find any unnecessary spending so that we can balance the budget without a tax increase, before we ever ask taxpayers for more.

As we come to the close of this budget process, I want to outline some of the key principles I’ve brought to the budget this year, and every year prior.

First and foremost, tax dollars collected don’t “belong” to the county. They are your dollars. Taxpayers entrust the county (or any government for that matter) with a portion of their hard-earned money, and in exchange, expect the government to perform essential, necessary functions for the constituency.

There is no amount of tax dollars that is too small to be scrutinized. That is why I push back aggressively anytime I hear someone say, “It’s only x dollars… so we shouldn’t worry about it.”

Any expenditure whether it’s $10,000 or $10 million should be reviewed, and if

MurrayJournal .com

it can’t be fully justified to the taxpayers, it should be cut.

Second, I believe that all government functions should be viewed in two different categories: “need to have” and “nice to have.”

The “need to have” list obviously includes things that are statutorily required of the county to perform, as mentioned above.

I also consider public safety and criminal justice generally to be in the “need to have” category, since keeping our residents safe is absolutely one of the core functions of government. That doesn’t preclude the need to still find efficiencies in public safety and criminal justice, but this area should be highly prioritized.

The “nice to have” list includes quality of life aspects of the county mentioned above, as well as any other program or effort that can easily be described as “good” or of benefit to the county, but not always within the absolute necessities.

These two lists are by no means exhaustive here. But this demonstrates the same principle that every family in our county goes through in their annual budgets. They strive to live within their means and focus on essential family expenditures sometimes at the expense of luxuries.

Lastly, I review each aspect of our budget and ask “is this the proper role of county government.” I’ve said many times that government can’t and shouldn’t be all things to all people. There are many programs or services that are better suited to other government entities, or even nonprofits or the private sector. Particularly in a tight budget year, it’s important to review each program, service, or expenditure and ask that question again and again.

I’m confident that these principles are the essence of good budgeting, and I will always advocate for this approach any time government is given the trust of the public through their tax dollars.

Though there isn’t always agreement among my council colleagues on budgetary matters, I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve and deliberate with them. And I am particularly grateful to the constituents who have trusted me to look out for their tax dollars throughout my years of service. l

In an accident?

You deserve an Advocate.

Talk to an attorney anytime 24/7. Your call is 100% free, and we don’t get paid until you do.

Vehicle Accident

Slip and Fall

Dog Bites

Other Accidents

Call us 24/7 at (801) 903-2200 www.UtahAdvocates.com December 2019 | Page 23

Hikers, bicyclists, equestrians weigh in on the future of Salt Lake County’s trails

By Jennifer J. Johnson

T

he Visit Salt Lake website boasts of Salt Lake City’s significant “trailheads in town”—but the only trails referenced are downtown-accessible and reference access to the Wasatch Mountains.

For those of us who live here, trails matter, too—and not just trails accessible from downtown, but trails in our parts of the valley for varied recreation as well as interconnected trails for daily transportation to-and-from work and other interactions.

The city of South Jordan routinely publicizes year-after-year survey results that the No. 1 amenity cited by residents is the city’s robust trails network. City administrators and elected officials repeatedly remind residents of this fact, when matters of development come up—such as paving previously unpaved areas to earn funding to interconnect the trails with other systems throughout the valley, etc.

The Jordan River Parkway is a continuous, non-motorized, paved trail, which follows the Jordan River—what Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson calls “the heart of the county”—for 45-plus miles, weaving in and out of urban areas, parks and marshy areas.

In August, the City Journals published an article about the preponderance of hiking trails in the area.

Trail advocates and environmentalist alike, throughout the valley, now have the opportunity to influence progress on not just existing, well-publicized trail systems, but fledgling, under-developed, unconnected and even undeveloped ones.

DEFINING TRAILS

Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation Planning Director Martin Jensen told the City Journals that Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation Planning Department is working to “get municipalities and interested parties to come together” to help define and divine the area’s future for trails.

In the quest to best understand trails, he said he spent nearly a month studying—by personal enjoyment on a family vacation— trail systems in Japan, some of which date back to the eighth century.

Trails, he says, do not represent “one source of truth.”

They also, he has found, do not even consistently mean the same thing to different people or stakeholder groups.

Helping define trails syntax, along with developing the future of trails for hikers, bicyclists and equestrians, and other constituents is core to the work his team at the planning department are undertaking now.

AUGUST INPUT

During August, the planning department hosted four open houses to solicit early resident and stakeholder input on updating the regional trails plan.

Constituents from Magna to Midvale,

Page 24 | December 2019

Dwyer, on the board of both the Salt THE CYCLING COMMUNITY – REPRESENTING THOSE WHO RIDE Lake Valley Trails Society and the Salt Lake Bicycle Collective, underscored what he sees RECREATIONALLY AND FULL as the critical importance of Salt Lake CounTIME

Trails do not represent one source of truth, believes Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation Planning Director Martin Jensen. (Jennifer J. Johnson/City Journals)

from Holladay to Herriman were courted to provide input on a proposed trails corridor that would enhance a current patchwork network that provides rare and incomplete EastWest connectivity, to a richer, broader, more connected trails network that would reach the edges of the Wasatch foothills to the East and the Oquirrh foothills to the West, and significantly amp trails access for Western constituents.

A big issue of consideration was the matter of to pave or not to pave select trails.

Constituent groups made a strong showing.

THOSE DEEP IN HORSE COUNTRY SPEAK OUT LOUDLY AND PROUDLY

Draper is still a horse community, although ordinances over the past few decades have reined in the larger-scale stables that once helped define the agricultural area now succumbing to development.

The Draper Open House, held at the Dimple Dell Recreation Center, was notable in three ways.

First, the session kicked off all four open houses.

Second, it was well-attended, dwarfing participation at other open houses.

Third, those attending the meeting and sharing their insights were decidedly horse-rights oriented and were of the “anti-pave” nature.

The nation’s oldest continuously operating horse organization, the Green Mountain Horse Association, indicates that horses are “the vehicle that thinks” and that “horses are the only means of transport into the wilderness that has a mind of its own.”

As a result, horse owners approach the concept of trail sharing as one requiring thoughtfulness and consideration from both rider and non-rider points of view.

A group of approximately 30 residents—most, if not all of whom represented the area’s horse community and loudly defended the importance of preserving river ecologies (riparian corridors)—attended and vigorously contributed in both written and verbal comments to the plan.

“I’d like to see more unpaved, soft trails,” said Dylan Timmer of Rose Park, who attended the second of four open houses.

Timmer, a cycling aficionado who tends to ride his bike just about everywhere—either in tandem with transit or just solo—notes that it is “a different experience” riding on paved trails versus unpaved trails.

Young families, he observes, benefit in the effort to get children started on mountain biking by having a predominance of softer, unpaved trails, which are easier on newbies likely to experience some falls.

That said, Timmer also indicates that he is a big fan of the storied W&OD Trail—or “Wad” trail, which is short for Northern Virginia’s Washington and Old Dominion Trail.

That trail is an asphalt-surfaced rail trail that runs through densely populated urban and suburban communities as well as through rural areas.

Wad, then, seems akin to Salt Lake County’s Jordan River Parkway.

“There’s a place for both,” he said and added, “I ride my bike wherever I go.”

Another hardcore cyclist is Kevin Dwyer.

ty’s trail visioning update.

“This plan is important—it’s a pathways plan,” he said, observing that the county’s plans for more extensive soft-surface trails, which are also connected with other existing or new trails, would significantly add to the quality of life and limit the need for automobiles in the overall transportation equation.

While horse and hiking enthusiasts are interested in the recreation side, bicycle riders such as Timmer and Dwyer are interested in leveraging the two-wheeled recreation experience they love to the fullest extent possible—and doing so in a safe environment.

Although the Salt Lake Valley Trails Society’s webpage features a mid-air cyclist in a 160-degree position, Dwyer indicates trails can offer—and need to offer—cyclists safe, connected transportation routes throughout the Salt Lake valley.

Dwyer says he has been hit by automobiles three times while riding his bike. As a result, he says he no longer elects to ride on roads without dedicated pathways.

“Without a plan like this, I am terrified,” he told the City Journals. l

Murray Senior Living at

s Ranch u p m y l O an Independent Holiday Retirement Community

Every life has a story. Every person is unique. At Holiday Retirement, we know that. We want to hear yours. How you worked hard. Raised a family. Took care of others. Now it’s time to simplify your life and start living it to the fullest. Don’t miss a minute of the life you’ve earned. Welcome to Holiday. Welcome home!

Mention this ad and get a complimentary meal on us.

Tours offered daily. Please call Jana Maurer at 801-261-3889 for more information.

Murray City Journal

Colds may be a thing of the past

By Priscilla Schnarr

www.copperzap.com

More and more people are saying they just don’t get colds anymore.

They are using a new device made of pure copper, which scientists say kills cold and flu viruses.

Doug Cornell invented the device in 2012. “I haven’t had a single cold since then,” he says.

People were skeptical but New research: Copper stops colds if used early.

EPA and university studies Businesswoman Rosaleen says when demonstrate repeatedly that viruses and bacteria die almost instantly when people are sick around her she uses CopperZap morning and night. “It saved me touched by copper.

That’s why ancient Greeks and Egyp- last holidays,” she said. “The kids had tians used copper to purify water and colds going around, but not me.”

Some users say it also helps with heal wounds. They didn’t know about sinuses. Attorney Donna Blight had a viruses and bacteria, but now we do.

Scientists say the high conductance 2-day sinus headache. When her Copperof copper disrupts the electrical balance Zap arrived, she tried it. “I am shocked!” in a microbe cell and destroys the cell in she said. “My head cleared, no more headache, no more congestion.” seconds.

Some users say copper stops nightSo some hospitals tried copper touch surfaces like faucets and doorknobs. time stuffiness if used before bed. One This cut the spread of MRSA and other man said, “Best sleep I’ve had in years.”

Copper can also stop flu if used earillnesses by over half, and saved lives.

Colds start after cold viruses get in ly and for several days. Lab technicians your nose, so the vast body of research placed 25 million live flu viruses on a gave Cornell an idea. When he next CopperZap. No viruses were found alive felt a cold about to start, he fashioned a soon after.

Dr. Bill Keevil led one of the teams smooth copper probe and rubbed it genconfirming the discovery. He placed miltly in his nose for 60 seconds.

“It worked!” he exclaimed. “The cold lions of disease germs on copper. “They never got going.” It worked again every started to die literally as soon as they touched the surface,” he said. time.

The handle is curved and finely texHe asked relatives and friends to try it. They said it worked for them, too, so tured to improve contact. It kills germs he patented CopperZap™ and put it on picked up on fingers and hands to protect you and your family. the market.

Copper even kills deadly germs that Now tens of thousands of people have tried it. Nearly 100% of feedback have become resistant to antibiotics. If said the copper stops colds if used within you are near sick people, a moment of 3 hours after the first sign. Even up to 2 handling it may keep serious infection days, if they still get the cold it is milder away.

The EPA says copper still works even than usual and they feel better.

Pat McAllister, age 70, received one when tarnished. It kills hundreds of diffor Christmas and called it “one of the ferent disease germs so it can prevent sebest presents ever. This little jewel real- rious or even fatal illness.

CopperZap is made in America of ly works.” Now thousands of users have pure copper. It has a 90-day full money simply stopped getting colds.

People often use CopperZap preven- back guarantee. It is $69.95.

Get $10 off each CopperZap with tively. Frequent flier Karen Gauci used to get colds after crowded flights. Though code UTCJ8.

Go to www.CopperZap.com or call skeptical, she tried it several times a day on travel days for 2 months. “Sixteen toll-free 1-888-411-6114.

Buy once, use forever. flights and not a sniffle!” she exclaimed.

Covering the High Costs of Cancer is Good...

Beating Cancer is Better.

GAD72-19

For more information, visit www.OutsmartMyCancer.com

TGen’s groundbreaking genomic sequencing

Consultations with TGen’s expert cancer physicians

Lump sum coverage up to $75,000

Your uniqueness plays an integral role in how you develop and react to cancer. If cancer is as unique to a person as their DNA, why would cancer treatments be the same for everyone?

Guarantee Trust Life Insurance Company has partnered with TGen, a leading nonprofit medical research institute, to develop a revolutionary insurance policy currently not found anywhere else. GTL will provide access to and pay for TGen’s world-class genomic sequencing services and individualized treatment recommendations to help give you the best shot at beating cancer.

Unlock the power of your DNA! For more information, please contact:

Kellogg Insurance Marketing

801-816-0505

61 W. 13490 S., Ste 200 Draper, Utah 84020

Cancer Insurance, specified disease insurance, is issued on Form Series G1530 by Guarantee Trust Life Insurance Company. This product, its features, and riders are subject to state availability and may vary by state. Certain exclusions and limitations may apply. For cost and complete details of coverage, please refer to the outline of coverage. Guarantee Trust Life Insurance Company and TGen are separate legal entities and have sole financial responsibility for their own products. GTL’s address is 1275 Milwaukee Ave, Glenview, IL 60025.

advertorial

MurrayJournal .com

December 2019 | Page 25

Santa sightings, Christmas concerts and tree lightings: Inexpensive holiday fun for the family

By Christy Jepson | Christy@mycityjournals.com

A girl visits with Mr. and Mrs. Claus at the Riverton’s annual Christmas event, Santa’s Arrival in Riverton.

(Photo courtesy Riverton City Communications)

B

udgets can get tight around this time of year. Sometimes taking your family to certain holiday events can be pricey. But don’t despair. Take a peek at this list (but not Santa’s!) and enjoy inexpensive holiday fun for the whole family.

DRAPER

Draper Tree Lighting Ceremony: Monday, Dec. 2 from 6-8 p.m. at the Draper City Park. This celebration will consist of lighting over 65,000 lights, including those on the large willow tree in the center of the park.

You can also visit with Santa, listen to live music, and stroll through the park. Each night after Dec. 2, the lights come on at 5:15 p.m. and turn off at 10:30 p.m.

Candy Cane Hunt: Monday, Dec. 9 from 4-5 p.m. at the Draper Historic Park, 12625 S. 900 East. Children ages 6 and younger will enjoy this free event that starts at 4 p.m. sharp. Not only will there be thousands of candy canes hidden throughout the park, some of those candy canes can be redeemed for a new holiday toy. There will be a special arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus on a fire truck to meet the children. Santa will be available for photos in the gazebo. There will also be hot chocolate and jumbo marshmallow roasting.

HERRIMAN

Night of Lights: Monday, Dec. 2 from 5-9 p.m. at the Herriman City Hall and Crane Park (5355 W. Herriman Main St.). Enjoy the night while watching the tree lighting, visit with Santa, make a holiday craft, eat at one of the many food trucks, listen to live music and watch a laser light show.

RIVERTON

Santa’s Arrival in Riverton: Monday,

Page 26 | December 2019

Dec. 2 from 6:30-8 p.m. at the Riverton City Park (1452 W. 12600 South). Come greet Santa as he and Mrs. Claus arrive to the park on a fire truck. Enjoy making crafts, cookie decorating, visiting with vendors, writing letters to Santa, roasting marshmallows, and enjoying a free warm scone with honey butter and a cup of hot chocolate.

‘Twas the Lights before Christmas: Dec. 6-12, 14-18, 21-23 from 6-9 p.m. at the Riverton City Park. This new holiday event costs $10 per vehicle. While staying warm in your car, you can read “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” on giant storyboards and see holiday lights. (Enter the park through 12800 South via 1300 West) Christmas Night of Music Concert: Monday, Dec. 9 at 7 p.m. at Riverton High School, 12476 S. Silverwolf Way. Beautiful holiday music will be performed by a 100-member choir and orchestra from the area.

SANDY

Mad Holiday Science: Thursday, Dec. 12 at 4 p.m. at the Sandy Library, 10100 S. Petunia Way. Santa Eggbert will explore science with a holiday twist. Children will get to watch: The Northern Lights, foam the melts before their eyes, indoor fireworks and dry ice experiments.

Christmas in the Wizarding World: Visit this unique retail experience now until Jan. 6.

The hours at The Shops at South Town are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. This is the final year that this event will be in Utah. Visitors can browse for free or if there is a Harry Potter fan in your family there is a wide selection of Harry Potter merchandise.

Santa’s Toy Bag presented by the Utah

A child explores the unique retail experience, Christmas in the Wizarding World at The Shops at South Town.

(Photo courtesy The Shops at South Town)

Puppet Theater: Monday, Dec. 23 at 10:30 From now until Dec. 31 be amazed at the a.m. and 11:30 a.m. at the Sandy Library.

14 handcrafted whimsical holiday-themed SOUTH JORDAN window displays. Open Monday through Light the Night Tree Lighting Celebra- Thursdays 4-8 p.m., Friday and Saturdays 10 tion: Friday, Dec. 6 from 6-8:30 p.m. Af- a.m.-5 p.m. and from Dec. 21-31 the window ter the tree lighting ceremony, walk down displays are open Monday-Sunday 10 a.m.-8 Towne Center Drive and enjoy the festive p.m. Parking fees apply if you park at the hoholiday candy window displays, shop at the tel. The hotel is located at 555 S. Main Street.

Winter Market, visit with Santa, enjoy hot co- WEST JORDAN The Magic of the Christmas Season: coa, gingerbread house displays, live music, sleigh rides, drum line and a holiday movie. Tuesday, Dec. 3 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the SoJo Choral Arts presents the 15th An- West Jordan Library, 8030 S. 1825 West. This nual Sounds of the Season Choir and Orches- festive night is presented by Mont “Magic” tra Holiday Concert: Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. or 7 and children who attend will find out what p.m. at Bingham High School, 2160 S. Jor- happened to The Grinch and learn what other dan Parkway. This is a free concert and will reindeer games Rudolph wasn’t allowed to play. Children will find the answers to these last a little over an hour.

SALT LAKE CITY silly Christmas questions and learn some The Utah Olympic Oval Holiday Festi- magic tricks. val: Saturday, Dec. 7 from 6-10 p.m. At this A Visit from St. Nicholas: Saturday, event there will be an oval figure skating ice Dec. 7 from 11 a.m. -2 p.m. Bring your kids show, crafts, a visit and pictures with Mrs. for an afternoon of Christmas stories and take and Mr. Claus, a photo booth and public ice your picture with Santa. This is a free event skating. Admission is $5 for adults (13 years at the Viridian Event Center (8030 S. 1825 old and older) and $3 for kids (3-12 years West). old). Ice skate rentals are $3.50 per person.

West Jordan Arts Annual Holiday ConThere is free entry when you bring a non-per- cert: Saturday, Dec. 7 from 6-8 p.m. featurishable food item benefiting the Kearns Food ing several of West Jordan’s City’s musical Pantry. Skate rental fees will still apply, how- groups including the West Jordan Symphony, ever. The Utah Olympic Oval is located at Mountain West Chorale, West Jordan City 5662 S. Cougar Lane (4800 West) in Kearns. Band and the West Jordan Jazz Band. This Christmas Carole Sing-Along: Monday, event will be held at the Viridian Event CenDec. 16 at 7 p.m. at the Vivint Smart Home ter (8030 S. 1825 West).

Arena. This free concert is presented by the The West Jordan Symphony’s 26th anLarry H. Miller family and will feature songs nual Handel’s “Messiah” sing-along: Sunday,

by Ryan Innes, with the emcee being Jason Dec. 15 from 7-9 p.m. at the Viridian Event Hewlett.

Center, 8030 S. 1825 West. This program will The Grand Christmas Hotel Holiday feature local soloists and the West Jordan Window Stroll at The Grand America Hotel: Symphony and Mountain West Chorale. l

Murray City Journal

Try the GetOutPass for giving the gift of experience

By Christy Jepson | christy@mycityjournals.com

W

ith the holidays approaching, are you wondering what to get your kids that doesn’t require batteries or USB cords? What about investing in something that guarantees family fun time? What about instead of buying toys that usually last 12 days, you buy something that lasts 12 months? The GetOutPass might be your perfect solution for a new holiday gift this year.

The GetOutPass is a fairly new entertainment pass which offers pass holders the opportunity to visit 17 venues in the Salt Lake Valley, 20 venues in Utah County, 13 in Davis/Weber Area, seven in the Logan area, and four venues in the St. George area.

You also get a one-time yearly admission to their featured venues: Lagoon, Cowabunga Bay, Brighton Resort, and one Cherry Peak concert ticket. According to their website, some of the venues allow weekly visits, some monthly visits, some quarterly visits and some you visit just once during the 12-month period.

The GetOutPass was created in 2017 by three friends: Charles Belliston, TC Krueger and Taggart Krueger. “Our goal was to get more families out doing more things together. We all felt that too many people were just spending days and evenings at home watching Netflix and playing Fortnite. We decided we needed to come up with a solution, we wanted people out doing things together and creating memories,” said Belliston, one of the cofounders.

So, with this goal in mind, the three of them created a statewide pass that allows families the chance to spend more time together while offering more opportunities to visit places they normally wouldn’t visit.

They can see their hard work paying off be-

cause of the success of the pass since it started two years ago.

Utah is not the only place where you can get a GetOutPass. The company has expanded and now offers passes in Idaho, Washington, Colorado and the Sacramento, California area. Although each pass has a different price and offers different attractions and venues, the pass works the same way. “The GetOutPass really is an awesome thing for both families and venues. That’s why it’s such a growing success,” Belliston said.

The Utah GetOutPass is $149.95 per person and includes almost $3,000 in free admissions all year. Some of the Salt Lake area attractions include Cowabunga Bay, Fat Cats, Jump Around Utah, Bazooka Ball, Brighton Ski Resort, Chaos Escape Rooms and more.

“We are constantly adding new places for our members to get out and enjoy making memories. Every time a new venue is added, it’s simply a bonus for our members, we never charge anything to our existing members, they simply get the new offers for free,” Belliston said.

The up-front cost might seem a little pricey in comparison to other local passes, but the pass pays for itself if you just go to the four featured venues: Lagoon, Cowabunga Bay, Brighton Resort and Cherry Hill.

Then all the other 65 attractions statewide are just an extra bonus while building memories, going to new places and having fun for 12 months.

For a list of all the attractions and venues on the Utah GetOutPass and for more information visit getoutpass.com. The pass is good for 12 consecutive months from the date of purchase. l

SOME OF THE SALT LAKE AREA ATTRACTIONS • Lagoon (one admission yearly) • Cowabunga Bay (one admission yearly) • Brighton Ski Resort (one admission yearly) • Cherry Peak Summer Concert Series (one admission yearly) • Fat Cats (weekly admission) • Momentum (one admission yearly) • Kangaroo Zoo (three free admissions) • Paintball Addicts (unlimited visits) • Bazooka Ball (monthly admission) • Jump Around Utah (quarterly admission)

MurrayJournal .com

• Dart Nation Nerf Tag Arena (monthly admission) • The Farm at Gardner Village (weekly admission) • Game Tyrant (multiple offers) • Highjump (one admission yearly) • Puzzling Adventures (one admission yearly) • Chaos Escape Rooms (one admission yearly) • Straight Flight Golf (one admission yearly) • The Escape Key (one admission yearly) • Laser Quest (one admission yearly)

MISSION STATEMENT The Murray Chamber creates synergy among professionals. We facilitate the creation of long lasting business relationships between members that are based on trust, value, and cooperation. We provide tools to connect education, service opportunities and interaction between members.

The Murray Area Chamber of Commerce wishes you success and prosperity in your business for 2019. Call the Chamber today to schedule a complimentary business consultation with the Chamber President & CEO.

RIBBON CUTTINGS Congratulations to Hamlet Homes at Granton Square on their grand opening on November 1st. They are located at 84 West 4800 South.

Visit the largest mural in Murray at the end of the street. Be sure to tag #BigFishWall! More information can be found at www.hamlethomes.com.

We welcomed Noodle Run to Murray City on November 14th. They are located at 6014 South State Street. Did you know the owners Anny Sooksri and Jeff have five restaurant within the Murray/Holladay/Midvale area? All wonderful restaurants but different menu items. Come enjoy fresh, delicious Thai food made in house with love. More information at www.noodlerunutah.com.

MURRAY CHAMBER BLOOD DRIVE AND BUSINESS EXPO – DAY OF GIVING What a better way to spend the Day of Giving than to donate blood to save lives!

The Murray Chamber and Red Cross are teaming up on December 3rd. If you have a business that you would like to showcase at the event please contact the chamber at info@murraychamber.net or call (801) 263-2632. The cost is one blood donor or $25 to the Murray Chamber at the event. This is a great opportunity to network, build business relationships, and to help save lives! Oh, and did we mention...FREE MOD PIZZA to all DONORS! Sign up to donate blood at: www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=MC For questions regarding your eligibility to donate, please call 1-866-236-3276.

Start the donation process by completing an online pre-donation health history questionnaire on the day of your appointment, please log in to www.redcrossblood.org/RapidPass Business owners: If you are interested in having a table at the expo please fill out the form at https://forms.gle/JjQHugnqjPhkX6Pb7 Questions? Please email the chamber at stephanie@murraychamber.net.

www.murraychamber.org December 2019 | Page 27

Another banner Murray HS girls soccer season closes in 5A quarterfinals

W

hen you advance to the state championship game – and barely lose, 2-1 – there’s not much room to move up. The only step higher, obviously, is to win that title game.

But there’s lots of room to tumble down.

And that’s the challenge coach Brady Smith’s Murray High School girls soccer team faced this fall, after losing seven players – six of them starters – to graduation.

Half of those starters from a year ago moved on to play college soccer this fall: Abbi Graham at Utah Valley University, as well as Hannah Lee and Megan Mendenhall at Salt Lake Community College. All three were Deseret News Class 5A first team allstate players.

However, it wasn’t a total rebuild for seventh-year head coach Smith. He did have a second team all-state player returning in sophomore Sammie Sofonia who led the Spartans in scoring a season ago. Honorable mention 2018 all-state goalkeeper Alexis Bates was also back for her junior season.

Additionally, Brady watched last season’s second leading scorer, forward Sydney Wilcken, raise her game to a higher level.

This season she led the Murray girls in goals scored, with 27. And like Graham, Lee and Mendenhall, from a year ago, the senior hopes to play collegiately next year.

“I’ve been contacted by two schools in Oregon, one in Kansas and a couple of others, about playing for them,” Wilcken said.

“So, I think there’s a pretty good chance I will choose one of those and play college soccer.”

Soccer is the only sport Wilcken has played for Murray, spending four years in the forward position. Her highest scoring game came during the regular season, hosting Olympus, when she scored five goals.

Sofonia also scored four goals in that 10-4 Spartan win.

Wilcken leaves the Murray soccer program having scored exactly 50 goals over her four seasons.

Meantime, Sofonia appears destined to shatter the school’s career goal scoring record. After leading the team with 20 goals a year ago, she was second to Wilcken this year with 24. And the sophomore has two more seasons to go.

“I think the future looks bright; our returners are already excited to attack next season,” Smith said. “And after losing six starters (to graduation) a year ago, this year we lose only two – one forward (Wilcken) and one midfielder.”

The Murray girls placed second in Region 6 this season – behind eventual Class 5A State Champion Skyline – with a league mark of 10-3-1.

In the state tournament the Spartans hosted Highland in the first round, shutting the Rams out 5-0. Next the Murray girls were forced to play on the road, but defeated

Page 28 | December 2019

By Carl Fauver | carlf@mycityjournals.com

Olympus for the third time on the year, 2-1.

The season came to an end in a quarterfinal upset, when the ninth-seeded Spartans hosted 16-seed Mountain View. The Utah County girls left the Murray field a 3-2 winner.

“We scored first in the Mountain View game at about the 20-minute mark and held that 1-0 lead until there were only 30 seconds left in the first half,” Smith explained. “Then one of our girls was called for a foul in the box, giving them a very close penalty kick.

That call could have gone either way. They scored on the penalty kick and the game was tie 1-1 at halftime.”

Coach Smith said that last second, first half goal seemed to give Mountain View the momentum. The Bruins scored the next two goals, in the second half. Murray drew to within 3-2, with about three minutes remaining, but then ran out of time.

“I think after losing a handful of starters – from a team that advanced to the state championship game a year ago – I was proud of what we did this season,” Brady concluded. “We were a team that, at times, could beat anyone. We just struggled sometimes to be consistent. I’m proud of the work the girls put in and what they accomplished.”

After starting at Murray High School as a special education and math teacher, Brady is now in charge of coordinating student internships and organizing career day. After taking over a struggling Spartan girls soccer program seven years ago, he has now guided the team into the state tournament five straight seasons.

As of this year, simply advancing to state is no longer an accomplishment, because all teams now go to the post season. But, as the No. 9 seed into this year’s tournament, the Murray girls would have advanced again this year under the previous format.

Most significantly, a year ago the Spartans earned their first-ever state tournament victories – three of them – in route to the championship game. This season they followed that up with two more tournament wins.

“I really like coach Smith and have learned a lot from him,” Wilcken concluded.

“He’s very smart and makes good decisions during games.” l

Senior Sydney Wilcken led the Spartans with 27 goals scored this season, and hopes to be playing collegiately next fall. (Photo courtesy Sydney Wilcken)

n e & p O w NoOLLING FOR CLASSES! ENR

Ge

ttin g kid

s off the Couch!

Be one of the first 100 NINJA’S and receive

$15 off tuition for your first six months of classes | Teen Warrior’s Program $10 off Month to month | Must mention Murray City Journal to receive promo Join us for birthday parties, and field trips!

385-425-3099 4731 S Commerce Dr Murray, UT 84107

USA Ninja Challenge Murray, UT ninja.murray ninjamurray.com

Murray City Journal

Did you know your medical care is covered whether you are at fault or not?

Dr. Omar is certified in motor vehicle occupant injury collisions and specializes in traumatic accident related injuries. He can help with neck pain, back pain, joint pain, slip and fall, headaches, concussions, and more. People suffering from an auto accident, or slip and fall related injuries, have great results with us:

“I was recommended to come to Dr. Omar & he really helped me out with my neck. I had some pretty good whiplash, I couldn’t really move my neck left or right & he really helped me out with that.” Bryan Hinkle

FREE Massage & Evaluation

Call us today to find out more or make an appointment.

801-905-1466

with First Visit

Se Habla Español

141 E 5600 S #204 Murray, Ut 84107

Readers like you keep us printing!

Connecting communities along the wasatch front

Be a part of your community news by donating to City Journals today!

Name: Phone: Address: City:

State:

One time Donation: $

Monthly Donation: $

Credit Card Number:

Zip:

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

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

MurrayJournal .com

December 2019 | Page 29

Hyped over lights

F

by

CASSIE GOFF

or some reason unbeknownst to me, us Utahans get way too hyped over holiday lights. Perhaps, we really like them because of the creative designs. Or maybe it’s because it’s a cheap or completely priceless way to spend a magical night with friends and family. It might even be a way for many of us to fight the seasonal depression that comes along with the winter darkness. Whatever the reason may be, we love some holiday lights.

If you haven’t checked out these locations yet, I recommend them for a usually-completely-free experience (unless you’re buying some hot chocolate).

My favorite light events over the past few years have been the Trees of Life. While originally named the Tree of Light, many residents have nicknamed the trees “Trees of Life,” for various reasons. One of the most stunning trees grows in Draper City Park (1300 E. 12500 South). Every year, over 65,000 lights are carefully strung throughout the tree. When lit (which occurs the first Monday evening after Thanksgiving) all of the branches of the tree are illuminated; making it seem like a tree from a magical world.

Throughout the valley, many more Trees of Life are being decorated. The closest one to me personally resides in a cemetery. That’s where I would check to see if there’s a Tree of Life near you.

Temple Square arguably has the most famous lights within the valley. Located in

Mention this ad and we will pay of your bill! (bills over $500)

$50

28 West 700 South • Salt Lake City, UT 84101

801-363-4400 rickwarnerbodyshop.com

SALT LAKE CITY 1810 S. Main St. 801-935-4760

DRAPER TAYLORSVILLE 280 E. 12300 S. 1856 W. 5400 S. 801-662-0009 801-613-9702

Page 30 | December 2019

$9.95. On Sundays through Thursdays, they will be open from 5:30 p.m. until 9 p.m. On Fridays and Saturdays, they will be open until 10 p.m.

One other event with an entrance fee that’s worth mentioning is Christmas in Color in South Jordan, at 1161 S. 2200 West.

You’ll need your car for this one as you drive through lighted tunnels and landscapes for at least 30 minutes. Tickets are $27 per vehicle.

Now back to the free-of-charge neighborhood lights.

In Sugar House, Glen Arbor Drive (also unofficially known as “Christmas Street”) is a popular destination for holiday drivers.

While driving, please be courteous of the street’s residents.

In Taylorsville, (another unofficial) Christmas Street has been causing quite a stir. It’s a festive neighborhood where the residents really take to the holiday. Located around 3310 W. Royal Wood Drive, this street is one to cruise down.

The Lights on Sherwood Drive in Kaysville is also a neighborhood gaining popularity. According to their Facebook page, their Christmas light shows are fully controlled and synchronized to a light show. Shows start at 5:30 p.m. and run until 10 p.m. every day of the week.

If you’re looking for even more places to visit, you might want to check out chistmaslightfinder.com. l

20% OFF with purchase of two entrees.

Coupon must be present. Expires 12/31/19

(801) 944 0505 • 3176 East 6200 South Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121

FAJITAS

NACHOS

ENCHILADAS

885 EAST 3900 SOUTH, MURRAY, UT | 801.269.1177 MON–THURS 11AM~9PM & FRI – SAT 11AM~10PM WWW.MYCANCUNCAFE.COM

ANY ORDER OF $25 OR MORE EXCLUDES ALCOHOL. NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFERS. EXPIRES 12/31/19

JUNK PILING UP?

Home of the “Heavenly Hot Cakes” OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 7am - 2:30pm Serving Breakfast All Day! Lunch Starting at 11am pennyannscafe.com

downtown Salt Lake City, Temple Square decorates their 10-acre complex with many different colors and styles of lights. This year, the lights will be on from Nov. 29 until Dec. 31. Check them out from 5 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

The Grand America Hotel in SLC (555 S. Main St.) is a building to sight-see all year round. When it’s lit up with Christmas lights though, it’s hard not to miss.

City Creek (50 S. Main Street in Salt Lake City) will turn on their lights for the season on Nov. 21. Their event titled “Santa’s Magical Arrival” will kick off at 6 p.m., when the Candy Windows at Macy’s on Main Street are revealed. The Westminster College Dance Program will be performing “Eve” and will be followed by a fire fountain show.

Light the Heights in Cottonwood Heights will occur on Dec. 2, beginning at 5 p.m. A holiday market will be open as City Hall, located at 2277 E. Bengal Blvd., turns on their lights for the first time this season.

Other public spaces that are worth walking through to see the lights are This is the Place Heritage Park (2537 E. Sunnyside Ave., Salt Lake City), Gardner Village (1100 W. 7800 South, West Jordan), and Thanksgiving Points (3003 N. Thanksgiving Way, Lehi).

Beginning on Dec. 6, Hogle Zoo (2600 E. Sunnyside Ave.) will host Zoo Lights! intermittently throughout the season until Jan. 5. This event does require an entrance fee of

20% OFF Your Purchase (up to $10)

Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Dine-in only. Not valid Sat. & Sun. Expires 12/31/2019.

UTAH JUNK PICKUP 801.808.6090 Save this coupon for

10% OFF EXPIRES 1/31/2020

www.utahjunkpickup.com

Before

After

“I’ve used these guys a couple of times and love them.

They’re fast to respond and get everything hauled away quickly. Even sweep up the area afterward. And the price is fair. Highly recommend!”

–Erica Carter

Murray City Journal

Son of a Nutcracker

I

t’s the time of year people pretend “The Nutcracker” ballet is a fun holiday activity. If you’re one of the lucky few who never sat through this weird production involving multi-headed vermin, living toys and one unsettling old man, here’s a recap.

Picture a festive house in the late 1800s with dozens of dancing guests, skipping children and happy servants, basically it’s the “12 Days of Christmas” come to life. Young Clara and her obnoxious brother, Fritz, are the ballet version of little kids crazy-excited for Christmas. (The ballet version differs from real life because ballet dancers don’t speak, where real children don’t shut up from Thanksgiving to Christmas morning.)

Dr. Drosselmeyer, Clara’s super-creepy godfather, appears at the party dressed like Count Chocula and presents her with a wooden nutcracker. Clara is over-the-top ecstatic, for reasons I’ll never understand. I guess children had a different relationship with nutcrackers in the 19th century.

Clara’s brother is SO jealous of the gift (right??) that he flings the nutcracker across the room, because really, what else can you do with a nutcracker? Clara’s despondent. She wraps his broken wooden body in a sling (like ya do) and falls asleep on the couch, snuggled to her nutcracker.

During the night, the Rat King and his minions sneak into Clara’s home, because why not? She wakes up and freaks out. The

Life

Laughter AND

by

PERI KINDER

PROFESSIONALS PROFESSIONALS

Value DRYWALL REPAIR & PAINT

40 Years Experience

Focus on Quality & Honesty!

Textures, Water Damage, Patches, Trim, Basements

Call Mike for Free Estimate

801-696-7735 PALLETS

Buy - Sale - Repair

PLACE PLACEAN ANAD: AD:

801-254-5974 801-254-5974

Call Call

APPLIANCE REPAIR

Glen’s Appliance Repair Major Appliance Repair & Installation REASONABLE RATES 38 Years Experience

Pay starts at $11.60 per hour.

Call 385-646-4321or go to www.graniteschools.org/foodservices/jobs

MurrayJournal .com

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

Full 1 year warranty!

Residential and Light Commercial

Call for details.

Call Jeff at 801-347-1150

Hot Tubs For Sale!

Mark Landers 801-641-9644

801-556-5247

Electric

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HARVEY’S ELECTRIC 801-833-0998

All types of electrical work.

Residential and Commercial.

Over 10 years in business Licensed and Insured.

Katie Sheen Painter Excellent Paint Jobs - Affordable Prices Interior/Exterior . Residential/Commercial LICENSED AND INSURED

Call Katie 385.628.7514

FIRST PREMIER PAINTING

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

TREE SERVICES

Call Today!

Food Service Department

HOT TUBS

Call and ask about Breaker Box Labeling!

Interior/Exterior/Cabinets/Stains Mention ad for Discount FREE Proposal

Now Hiring for part time positions in our

Handy Home Service

dad walked into my room, removed the album from the turn table and smashed it into pieces with his bare hands.

I showed up at the audition with my hair pulled into a bun so tight it closed my eyes. An elegant dancer performed several steps that we practiced for a few minutes, then we performed for the judges. It was over so quickly.

As dancers were given roles as soldiers, party goers and mice, I held my breath.

But my number wasn’t called. I was heartbroken.

Maybe decades later I’m insulted that the ballet judges couldn’t see my awkward talent. Or maybe I’ve endured enough versions of this tale to see it’s craziness. And if “The Nutcracker” is your family’s favorite holiday tradition, ignore my opinion. It’s all a dream anyway. l

FREE ESTIMATES! NO JOB TOO SMALL!

Free pick up of your broken pallets.

HELP WANTED

PAINTING Custom Interior/Exterior Painting Decks & Cabinets Basic Home Repair

Image from Adobe Stock

Call Glen at 801-510-3513 PREMIER QUALITY PAINTING OUR CLIENTS COME FIRST

801-707-7260

nutcracker turns into a handsome soldier and wields his sword to defeat the rodent army.

“Nutcracker! You’re my hero!” screams Clara, if people in a ballet could talk.

“That’s Prince Nutcracker to you, peasant,” he sniffs in pantomime, before taking her to the magical Land of the Sweets ruled by the Sugar Plum Fairy who has an unclear but definite sexual relationship with Prince Nutcracker.

While in the Land of Sweets, Clara watches dancers from Russia, Spain, China and Arabia (?) as they perform in a culturally stereotypical fashion. Prince Nutcracker sits next to Clara cracking walnuts with his jaw like some football jock.

Mother Ginger shows up in drag with a skirt full of tumbling children, then there’s a flower waltz and dancing pipes and tons more pirouetting before the Sugar Plum Fairy takes the stage to make everyone else look clumsy and insipid. It’s all performed to Tchaikovsky’s musical score that stays in your head through January.

In the end, it turns out it was all a dream, as most stories involving young girls and adventure turn out to be.

I told you that story to tell you this story.

When I was a gangly 11 year old, still full of hope, I auditioned for Ballet West’s “The Nutcracker.” As the audition drew nearer, I practiced every spin and arabesque I’d ever learned. I played the music all day until my

801-413-6938 ROOFING

801-449-9875

All types of roofs

$650 OFF any reroof over 2,000 sq. ft.

Apex Clean Air

Installations & Repairs Call today for a free in home estimate.

801-618-4649 Excavation

LUND X

Excavation, Utilities Concrete Block Walls

Spencer Lund

801-824-7130

INTERMOUNTAIN TREE EXPERTS

Removals . Trimming . Pruning Licensed and Insured / 15 Yrs Experience

801-244-3542 FREE ESTIMATES

Tile and Flooring Powell Tile and Laminate Flooring

SUGARHOUSE HEATING & AIR SERVICE & REPAIR

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED

24 Hour Emergency: 801-484-0506 www.sugarhousehvac.com

VEHICLES WANTED

Gumby’s Auto Parts We’ll buy your non-running, wrecked or broken car, truck or van.

(801) 506-6098

“It’s worth your time to call!”

FLAT ROOF SPECIALISTS

OLYMPUS ROOFING

801.887.7663 SERVING WASATCH FRONT SINCE 1973

SIDING

Capitol Exteriors

Tile, Back Splashes, and Bathrooms Laminate Flooring, Finish Work, and Services

Siding – Soffit – Fascia – Raingutters

Call Chris for a free estimate 801.708.1123

(801) 253-2566

Call NOW For SPECIALS

December 2019 | Page 31

Plasma Donation New, More Convenient Hours Monday - Friday: 6 am - 8 pm Saturday: 6 am - 4 pm Sunday: 6 am - 4 pm

NEW DONORS! Bring this coupon in for $60 on your first visit!

CJ - Murray

727 East 9400 South, Sandy 801-566-2534

| India Palace AU T H E N T I C C U I S I N E O F I N D I A

FREE SODA DRINK

As seen on

with any purchase

One soda drink per coupon. Not valid with any other offer.

Coupon good at any Curry Pizza, or India Palace location.

Expires 12/31/19 2927 S 5600 W West Valley

125 N SR 24 Bicknell, UT

98 W Center Street Provo

1086 W South Jordan Pkwy South Jordan

801-890-0415

435-425-2500

801-373-7200

801-302-0777