Murray City Journal | January 2021

January 2021 | Vol. 31 Iss. 01

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MURRAYITES INSPIRED TO CREATE AND SERVE DURING PANDEMIC

By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

T

here was a lot of grim news during 2020, yet there were numerous instances where Murrayites took a massive lemon of a year and made it into lemonade. With the pandemic around, there were many who ended up with plenty of time on their hands, and the Murray Journal found several stories to share where Murrayites came up with ways to create and serve those around them.

Gardening surged in popularity in 2020. Whether driven by concern about supply chains or having time to finally clear out that weed patch, residents kept Murray nurseries busy. Lowe’s sold out of many vegetable seed packets, and West Side Nursery’s vegetable starts were hot sellers. Of course, with all the plants comes the yield. Ace Hardware reportedly couldn’t stock its canning supplies fast enough.

With so many gardens blooming, Lynda Brown took up painting people’s gardens and selling her art. She returned all her proceeds to her charity, Kids Read. And it wasn’t just flowers and veggies sprouting in Murray yards in 2020. Next to Seth and Gerilyn Merrill’s garden, their whole family constructed an outdoor pizza oven.

The great outdoors became our best alternative to quarantining at home. Social distancing outside is more manageable, and some activities ensured it, such as horseback riding. Lori Haglund, who owns a horse farm on the east side of Murray, opened up the doors to her paddock and invited children to have field trips to visit her four horses.

After a neighbor expressed the familiar parental refrain Continued page 8

Lori Haglund gave children social-distancing opportunities to learn on her farm. (Photo courtesy of Lori Haglund)

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Murray City Journal

your murray schools – Murray City School District Newsletter MURRAY CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT 5102 South Commerce Drive • Murray, UT 84107 Phone 801-264-7400 | Fax 801-264-7456

Website: www.murrayschools.org | Facebook: Murray School District UT The Your Murray Schools section is a Murray City School District publication, under the direction of Doug Perry, MCSD communications & public information.

A Message from Superintendent Jennifer Covington

Mrs. Jennifer Covington

As we move into the second half of what has been an unprecedented school year, Murray City School District is grateful for our students, employees, families and community.

Yes, we have all been working through some challenging circumstances this school year; circumstances we would not have chosen.

Despite this adversity, MCSD has not just survived, it has persevered with strength and boldness. The resilience and support from so many have not gone unnoticed. In a school year that has been challenging, there are still many things to be grateful for. We are especially grateful for the gifts of time and resources given to our students, our staff, and the district. It is those acts of kindness and commitment, small and large, which move us forward despite obstacles and challenges. Thank you!

There are many upcoming events and activities that our school community is looking forward to during the second half of our school year. We would encourage everyone to continue to do their part in following the public health guidelines set forth. Continuing to do so will give us a better chance at being able to hold these events and activities in some form.

We are currently in the season of inclement weather. If schools are not able to operate due to weather conditions, MCSD will pivot to remote learning for the day. This remote learning will start two hours later than the normal in-person schedule to give our teachers time to prepare and upload lessons. Every effort will be made to notify schools before the workday ends (the day before) if there is a possibility of school closure (100% remote learning) so teachers and students may prepare. Please visit our website at www. murrayschools.org for additional information on our MCSD snow day protocol which can be found on the Parents drop-down menu under weather, air quality, and emergencies.

We look forward to finishing our school year strong. Thank you for your continued support of your Murray Schools!

2021 MCSD Calendar Highlights January 14-15 Teacher Work Days (No School) January 18 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday (No School) January 22 Early School Dismissal February 15 Washington and Lincoln Holiday (No School) February 16-17 Murray High Parent/Teacher Conference February 17-18 Jr. High Parent/Teacher Conference February 19 No School February 24-25 Elementary Parent/Teacher Conference February 26 No School The 2021 MCSD School Year Calendar is now posted on the District website. The Murray Board of Education reserves the right to alter or amend this calendar.

MurrayJournal .com

Laura Baker Grants Murray Education Foundation announced its recipients of the Laura Baker Professional Development Grant. Named and founded in memory of one of Murray Board of Education’s long-time members, Mrs. Baker was a strong advocate of professional development among educators.

• Breanna Tomlinson, Murray High School Special Education: “Co-Teaching that Works!”

• Michelle Bouwman, Parkside Elementary School Social Work: “Early-Stage Interventions: Strategies for Every Teacher” • Cyndi Ralson, Liberty Elementary/Hillcrest Jr High Social Work: “2021 National Social Work Conference” • Lidia Delgado, Parkside Elementary Teacher: “Early-Stage Interventions: Strategies for Every Teacher” • Sierra Marsh, Grant Elementary Social Work: “2021 National Social Work Conference” • Claire Meier, District Office Technology Coach: “ISTE20 Virtual Conference” • Geri Smith, District Office Technology Coach: “ISTE20 Virtual Conference” • Mike Roberts, Hillcrest Jr. High Instructional Coach: “Instructional Coaching: An Introduction” • Melia Fidel, Murray High School Media Center: “UELMA” • Amber Rydalch, Murray High School Instructional Coach: “Kagan Strategies Adaptation for the COVID 19 Classroom” • Lora Bonham, Parkside Elementary Social Work: “2021 National Social Work Conference” • Catherine Bigalow, Murray School District: “Training and Certification on Handwriting”

JANUARY 2021

Open Enrollment Open Enrollment for MSCD just started. But don’t worry, you have until February 19 at 5:00 pm to enroll your student(s).

Registration is entirely online. Go to murrayschools.org/ enrollment to begin the process.

PLEASE NOTE: • There is a $5 application fee that must be paid online with the online enrollment application • Only one application is permitted per student (can only choose one school to apply for enrollment in) • Only parents and legal guardians can register a student • This is only for new students to the district or students within the district that are transitioning from elementary to junior high or junior high to high school – all others do not need to re-enroll.

• Non-resident applicants will be notified by email on March 31, 2021. If you don’t see this notice, check your email provider SPAM folder or call the District Office.

If you have any questions, please email the district at info@ murrayschools.org or call us at 801-264-7400.

PowerPlay LTE This month, Murray City School District (MCSD) launches PowerPlay LTE – including the first LTE connection in any school district nationwide. This initiative features a high-speed LTE connection, direct fiber connections, and hotspots that reach every home within the entire district with highspeed connectivity.

Made possible through Utah Education Technology Network and CARES Act funding, all students will have access to PowerPlay from home at no cost. This technology complements the District’s PowerUp initiative that put a Chromebook in the hands of every student two years ago.

Research shows that nearly one-third of all MCSD families have more than one student in the district. This makes connectivity and access to schoolwork a challenge at times with limited residential internet streaming. Additionally, 13% of MCSD families have unreliable or no internet connection in their home.

The combination of PowerUp and PowerPlay LTE creates a digital learning environment that is equitable for all students.

Watch for more announcements in the coming weeks as we prepare to launch.

January 2021 | Page 3

Local organization raising awareness of radon gas dangers

By Justin Adams | justin.a@thecityjournals.com

J

an Poulsen was 60 years old when she was diagnosed with lung cancer. She was confused because she had never smoked a day in her life. After a little research, she learned that her cancer was caused by a chemical in her very own home, one that is invisible, odorless, tasteless and otherwise impossible to detect without a test: Radon.

Poulsen was lucky in that she was able to beat her cancer diagnosis, but only after having undergone multiple rounds of chemotherapy and surgeries, including the removal of one of her lungs. But many are not so lucky.

Each year, radon is responsible for an estimated 21,000 deaths in the United States alone, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

Exposure to radon usually happens in one’s own home. The gas forms naturally when uranium in soil or rock breaks down, according to the American Lung Association. It then “enters a home through cracks in walls, basement floors, foundations and other openings.”

Luckily there are relatively inexpensive tests avail-

able to measure the level of radon gas in a home. The only problem is that they need to be done regularly.

Poulsen’s home was tested for radon over a decade before her diagnosis and the results showed a radon level of 2.2 pCi/L, much less than the recommended action level of 4.0. However, radon levels can rise over time and home renovations can also lead to increased exposure.

Poulsen’s family, for example, added a walk-out basement. Following her diagnosis, they had their home tested again and the result was 24.9 pci/L, more than six times the recommended EPA action level.

“If we had known, we would have had our house tested and remediated immediately after we had it remodeled,” said Poulsen.

Poulsen’s journey led her to help form the Utah Radon Coalition, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness of this rarely-talked-about issue. They hold regular radon awareness seminars, offer free testing kits to qualified individuals and lobby local lawmakers to

adopt reasonable measures related to radon safety.

This month, for example, they’ll be encouraging a number of Utah cities including Cottonwood Heights, Draper, Herriman, Millcreek, Sandy and South Jordan to join the EPA and many others across the country in designating January as Radon Action Month.

National Radon Action Month “provides a fresh opportunity at the beginning of each new year for all Americans to protect their families by becoming more aware of radon, testing their home, and mitigating radon if the test finds a high level of radon,” according to the URC website.

They will also be offering free radon testing for homeowners of those six cities during the month of January. Residents can request their free test by visiting www. utahradoncoalition.org and clicking on Radon Action Month 2021. l

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RADON CAN HARM YOU?!

• Radon causes lung cancer in humans.

• Radon is the 2nd leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. • Exposure to radon typically occurs in the home. • Estimates are 1 in 3 Utah homes have high radon levels.

THE RISK OF RADON EXPOSURE IS INCREASING AS UTAHNS ARE SPENDING MORE TIME AT HOME BECAUSE OF COVID-19

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THAT’S WHY DURING JANUARY 2021, WHICH IS NATIONAL RADON ACTION MONTH, WE ARE OFFERING FREE RADON TESTING TO RESIDENTS OF YOUR CITY!

Go to our website to learn how testing and mitigation of high levels of radon can protect you and to apply for a free radon test kit.

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January 2021 | Page 5

Schools flip-flop learning methods to keep providing instruction to students

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

The Murray High commons is unusually quiet during school as students flipped to online learning once the school reached its threshold of positive COVID-19 cases. (Scott Wihongi/Murray High)

“

I didn’t know what to expect,” recalled a Canyons School District parent after his first child’s school changed to virtual learning after positive COVID-19 cases reached a 1% limit for the school.

“But it hasn’t been too bad,” continued Marc Hone, even as his three oldest children who attend three different schools all were learning online in late November, following health guidelines to temporarily close their schools. “We rely on Canvas (online learning platform), teacher emails and frequently look at the schools’ websites to ensure they’re getting their assignments done.”

This has been a different experience from last spring when all schools were suddenly put on soft closure for the rest of the school year following Gov. Gary Herbert’s mandate in response to the pandemic.

With four of his five kids then in school, it was a scramble to meet with teachers who held Zoom meetings at the same time and having limited devices, he said.

“It was a disaster last March, just terrible. We were strapped to devices and it was too much screen time. Some classes,

Page 6 | January 2021

it was hard to get on the livestream,” he said. “Now teachers are better prepared, each student is given a Chromebook from school and we’re OK as long as the internet holds up.”

A Granite School District parent, who only agreed to speak anonymously, said when her two high school students at the same school have flipped to virtual learning, each child has had different experiences.

For her freshman, there has been tears and stress keeping up with a 4.0 gradepoint average, but her child has been able to do it.

“She’ll work in front of the computer for six hours, take a break and then, do some more. I asked, ‘Aren’t you done?’

And she said, ‘Well, that was my schoolwork and now, I’m doing my homework.’

And she’ll be there for more hours. This is too much. I think that the quantity needs to be lessened, but the quality needs to remain,” she said.

Her other high schooler, a 4.0 GPA junior, has seen a total disruption in academics, his mother said.

“There’s been a lack of consisten-

cy with live instruction and support from some teachers,” she said. “He’s kind of crushed academically because of the stress and everything that goes with it. He’s not sure now that he wants to go to college; kids are starting to lose sight and lose hope.

It’s proving to be really, really difficult.”

Throughout Canyons, Granite, Jordan and Murray school districts, several schools, most commonly secondary schools, had transitioned to remote learning up to three times since school opened in August. Each time, in-person teachers flipflopped their teaching platforms to online.

Most districts are following Salt Lake County’s health guideline of closing schools for two weeks following an outbreak of 15 positive cases at the schools.

Canyons Board of Education set a 1% positive case threshold to trigger a closure.

Many students and family fear the disruptions in education with inconsistent learning when students or teachers are in quarantine or isolation or when entire schools flip-flop.

Alta High senior Coleman Hone, who is also taking classes at Canyons Technical Education Center, said the uncertainty of

his schedule has been hard.

“I come home from my morning at CTEC to learn that Alta is online,” he said.

“This isn’t what I’ve grown up with all my life. It’s just inconsistent learning and it throws me off.”

His principal, Brian McGill, said it’s been challenging for his school community.

“It’s really, really difficult on teachers and our kids,” he said. “Students need stability. Some kids quarantined one, two and three times in six weeks just by sitting next to kids who tested positive. It’s hard on kids to stay up on studies and hard on our teachers preparing for all eight classes online.”

In the 12 weeks since school opened, Alta has flipped to virtual learning three times.

“School became unmanageable with so many teachers and staff out. It became a challenge to find substitutes and run school,” McGill said, adding 80% of administrators’ time was contact tracing.

Granger High also has flip-flopped three times.

“While we are becoming more effi-

Murray City Journal

cient in our use of technology in attempting to engage students, it is still difficult,” Principal David Dunn said. “Establishing a set schedule for teaching and having students log on has been much more effective in getting students to engage. We set deadlines, but we work with students individually according to their needs.”

However, he added, “First term, we did see an increase in students getting ‘F’ grades. A support system has been put into place to try and help those students get caught up.”

Cottonwood High flip-flopped twice, sent teams to students’ homes to support students, and has seen improvement in student learning—after implementing ideas from other schools, including a set schedule.

“We found that with our students, and it was toward the end of the first quarter, our participation was terrible,” Principal Terri Roylance said. “Kids just did not follow up at home. I ended up mailing all first quarter report cards home to the families with on the back side a little infographic and letter from me saying why did we fail so many kids and it’s because kids did not engage whatsoever. Not all, but many.”

Brighton, like many schools when they flip, learned online teaching is more effective with a schedule.

“The first time, we didn’t require synchronous learning, but instead, let student set their own pace,” Principal Tom Sherwood said. “We learned that they’d procrastinate through the roof, had other concerns at home which made it hard to focus, had troubles with bandwidth, and other issues. It sounded great, but it didn’t work out that way.”

At Murray High, Principal Scott Wihongi said that transition to online learning needs to find a balance.

“Teachers continue to explore how much is too much when it comes to fully online learning,” he said, adding that the school flipped to virtual twice before December. “They are finding that they have to scale back work a little more since it takes students longer to do it in the home setting.”

Hillcrest High School math teach-

er Matt Snyder said that when his school flipped around Thanksgiving, they had a schedule for a sense of accountability.

“Students need a structure to be successful; it improves productivity,” he said, adding that the last Wednesday online, only two of his 95 students during the day were absent—about the same as a winter day in a non-COVID-19 year. “Students learn better with interaction. I usually greet students when they come into my classroom, so I make sure I do that when I see them log on. It adds some personality and helps them from feeling so isolated, but if someone were to come by my classroom and see me just talking without anyone here, they’d think I was crazy. It’s strange to be here all alone teaching.”

The transition to virtual learning was not what Hillcrest sophomore Campbell Hone expected.

“I thought I could sleep in, but there’s a schedule and a procedure to take attendance; I can’t wear PJs and we have to have our (Chromebook) camera on,” he said. “Even so, I don’t feel as connected to other students and my teachers; the class discussions online don’t give off the same intense learning vibe. I don’t want to miss out on my education, but it’s hard to sit in front of a screen.”

While some students are self-motivated and disciplined to learn online, Murray’s Wihongi points out: “In-person learning is much preferable in many areas because of that direct support, connection and structure. Some students are clearly struggling without that.”

Administrators and parents say students are missing education in a social environment.

“Students want to learn in school, have access to teachers and discussions face-to-face with their classmates. Learning alone is not the same,” Brighton Principal Sherwood said.

That’s what parent Karla-Ann Whitaker said about her son, Jack, who was learning online while Indian Hills Middle flipped in late November.

“He misses his friends, flirting with girls and seeing his teachers,” she said.

“It’s been a pain in the butt. We’ve had

tech issues and called the school, we’ve needed different links to have him connect with his classes, his grades have declined.

He needs to be self-motivated and stay off his phone, but it’s hard. I know teachers are trying and we need to do what is safe, but it’s a tough adjustment.”

She said that as a single mother who is working and going to school full-time herself, she relies on him to watch his younger siblings, and that isn’t always taken into account with how much longer it takes to do homework online.

Jack supports his mother’s assessment.

“It’s terrible; it’s non-stop Zoom meetings and teachers can only help so much when they’re there and I’m at home on my own,” he said, adding that he has asked for more explanation with math in an email or the next Zoom call, but then he’s also waiting for those to happen. “It’s definitely slowing down the progression of learning.”

Indian Hills seventh-grader Addison Hone agrees: “I can’t stop by after school to ask a question to a teacher. I have to email or ask in a Zoom call and hope there’s not a glitch.”

While she appreciates the efforts her teachers have made, Addison said, “It’s a lot harder to be interactive. They can’t see if your hand is up. It seems like there’s a lot more work with less instruction.”

Engagement and a sense of belonging is what is missing this year, administrators said.

“It’s hard when we’re not in-person to engage,” Mountain Creek Middle School Assistant Principal Tim Brooks said. “We are not sure where students are, what they’re doing, what’s going on, and we can’t see their expressions as teachers walk the aisles. We try to overcome that with having cameras on, but it’s still hard. We don’t have the same assemblies and talent shows; teachers can’t give them high-fives. It’s like giving kids a Snickers and saying eat it, but you can’t take off the wrapper. We’ve all been learning to be more appreciative, become more patient, get creative and have humor during this time.”

Brighton’s Sherwood agrees: “What’s missing is all that makes high school fun and draws kids in—after-school socials and clubs, wearing school colors to football games, belonging to a school community and buying in to that culture.”

At Alta, McGill said keeping students and staff motivated has been challenging.

“The magic and beauty of what a comprehensive high school can bring is taking a hit,” he said. “It is also heartbreaking when students practice and rehearse for upcoming performances, only to find out that they are postponed or canceled.”

Murray’s Wihongi agrees the school year looks different.

“Missing this year is the overall energy and spirit normally associated with our high schools. Our classrooms and hallways are less busy; our activities and assemblies can’t move forward as normal, so it definitely takes the wind out of the sails, so to speak,” he said.

Teachers and administrators are finding positive outcomes to the changes of education this year.

In the classroom, Hillcrest’s Snyder said students are communicating better.

“There’s been phenomenal eye contact with me as masks are forcing eye contact—and better communication. They say what they need to say. Students following the health guidelines and mask mandates has exceeded my expectations. They’re treating me and others around them who may be terrified to be here with care and respect,” he said.

Murray High’s Wihongi looks to the future of education.

“Our method of curriculum delivery and access will be a huge silver lining to this. We’ll have more options for students to access their education and all of our teachers will be able to blend online and in-person instruction much more proficiently,” he said, adding that, “Snow days will become online learning days. But what remains clear, though, is that in-person learning is the most effective method of learning, hands down.” l

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Continued from front page about how distance learning was causing her child to get on her nerves, she wondered if the 11-year-old tween could visit Haglund’s horses. Haglund used the opportunity to teach the youngster about the art of equine.

“We talked about quiet energy and horses and about slow, deliberate movements, and about how horses need to trust us and we need to respect them,” Haglund said. “One way to let the horse get to know you is to put your face up near their nose and breathe with the horse nose-to-nose. It’s quite amazing to see a 1,000-pound animal be so gentle with people, and especially with children.”

After that first field trip, the mother wrote Haglund back, exclaiming how much better the child behaved. So the Haglunds invited more children to visit. Soon they felt that they could create a safe environment to invite other children to enjoy “horse camps.”

“My husband and I decided that we could share an outdoor, socially distant horse experience with more children,” Haglund said. “We planned two two-hour, two-day sessions, and they filled immediately. So, we planned another for the next week. We learned that families were starving for a safe outdoor experience, and so we planned one more. I used most of my summer vacation time this year for horse camps, and it was such a joyful experience.”

Children were taught how to approach a horse and then groom it. They learned about horse tack and care, but perhaps the best part was learning to ride. One girl from California, visiting her grandmother, was most memorable to Haglund.

“She was very timid and worried about the horses. It took some convincing to get her to sit on a horse the first day. On the second day, she sat up there like a pro and eventually dropped the reins to hold her hands in the air and exclaim, ‘Adios!’ She was so cute,” Haglund said.

The Haglunds have also done concerts for several years in their backyard to support their BrockStrong Foundation, supporting heightened awareness of organ transplants and providing funds to help kids learn music. With the need for social distancing, Michael Feldman felt that her farm might offer a safe venue for his band to perform.

“Musicians prefer to play for audiences and with other musicians, and people love live music. COVID has put a damper on all that.

So, I was looking for a safe environment to offer live music,” Feldman said. “Lori asked us to play at one of her (BrockStrong) summer shows, and we talked about doing open mics in her yard. It was a natural fit. Musicians and folks craving live music loved the idea. We ended up having two hugely successful free events, with more than a dozen performers each.”

Playing in a band is not Feldman’s regular gig. After he left the biotech world, he and his wife opened Feldman’s Deli in Sugar House, where he regularly invited musicians to play.

Not to mention, customers could occasionally catch him jamming at the microphone.

However, when the pandemic shut down Feldman’s Deli, thus closing a venue for musicians to play at, Feldman coaxed Haglund into letting the musician perform on her farm. Feldman arranged three concerts: JT Draper with Nathan Spencer, Two Old Guys, and Junction City Blues Band, as well as two open mics, which had about a dozen musical performances each.

“The mics were sanitized or exchanged (at the artist’s request) between performances.

We maintained distancing on stage. The audience had plenty of room to socially distance and brought their own food and beverages. We emphasized responsible behavior and got full cooperation. The shows had a great relaxed vibe,” Feldman said.

Feldman believes the shows were a success and is hoping to do more in the future.

“Everyone who participated loved the shows.

Musicians craved to play ‘live’ for a supportive audience, and the audience was craving live music; it was a great match. Good music, good company, good vibes. We received lots of thanks for putting it together and requests to continue. I’m hoping to figure out a new venue for a COVID-safe open mic in the near future.”

Music was very much on the mind of Murrayite Tommy Maras at the beginning of the pandemic. In the age of online meetings, Maras not only formed a band, West of House, with no bandmember physically present, but music streaming service Spotify announced that their band had received over 83,500 streams in 2020.

In addition to Maras, who handles drums, the band consists of Erick Bieger, guitar; Lance Bletscher, bass; Dave Roberts, guitar and vocals; and Kevin Huynh, guitar and keyboard.

While Maras lives here in Murray, Bieger, Bletscher, and Roberts all live in Orange County, California. Huynh is from Seattle, Washington. Their recording engineer, Bobby Phillips,

Tommy Maras formed a group remotely. Now their band, West of House, has had over 80,000 streams on Spotify. (Photo courtesy of Tommy Maras)

Murray City Journal

Michael Feldman performs in his band, Two Old Guys, in a socially distanced free concert. (Photo courtesy of Michael Feldman)

lives in Laramie, Wyoming.

When the pandemic hit, Bieger and Maras were working on their song “Yesterdays.”

Going through their network of friends, they found bandmates who could record in their own homes.

“Everyone has the ability to record at their own home, and Google Drive is our friend,” Maras said. “Typically, songs are created when Erick records what’s called a scratch track.

From there, I will download the song and load it into my computer. I then record the drum tracks. When I’m done, typically, Lance will add the bass line. Once the main guitar tracks are made, Dave and Kevin add their guitar and key parts. Once all the music is made, Erick will track all the vocal parts. During all of this, we are uploading what we’re recording for review and guidance.”

Like any other person trying to get some-

thing done in the world of remote work, Maras said the hard part was waiting to move their project along.

“When we are all happy with what we have recorded, we send the individual tracks, sometimes more than 50, to Bobby for mixing and mastering. The hardest part about all of this is that what we could work out in 10 minutes in the same room might take a week doing it all online,” Maras said.

Since this band’s pandemic birth, West of House has been getting noticed as far away as the United Kingdom. They have released an entire slate of tracks.

According to Maras, “We’ve had music out there for eight months. We are very happy with the response we have received. As Erick said in a recent social media post, ‘Not bad for an indie band who has never been in the same room.’”

While some folks have created, others have sought out ways to serve. Single mom Jodi Campbell Porter had surgery and was laid off in September. Still, she and her family had wanted to help others less fortunate than they.

“We were talking one night, and my kids were telling me how sad the world is right now.

My son was saying he had heard of some families who had come upon hard times, and not only could they not pay their rent or mortgage, but they were also unable to purchase food,” Porter said.

With Thanksgiving coming soon, the Porters put the word out to Murray’s social media groups, asking if anyone needed a full holiday dinner. Two families were referred to Porter, but their local elementary school called and said they had two more families they could help.

“I called Smith’s supermarket (650 W. 5400 South), and the manager, Brandi, told me to come in, and they would help. They found two large, fresh turkeys and gave them to us for free,” Porter said.

With her son and daughter, they also picked up some chips and juice for some families with children. They also gave them $100 for their other needs.

“It has just been a very great experience with really showing my children what giving is all about,” Porter said. “I know they are older (18 and 23 years old), but seeing their reactions after seeing the families reactions was priceless.” l

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January 2021 | Page 9

Ski resorts open with COVID-19 protections in place

By Tavia Dutson | t.dutson@mycityjournals.com

A

s Utahns enter a new season during the COVID-19 pandemic, they can turn to the mountains for a safe place to recreate. Although resorts up Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons were forced to close early during the spring of the 2019-20 season, they have been working tirelessly to provide locals with a safe 2020-21 season.

Ski resorts started planning for this season as soon as they shut down in mid-March but have had to adjust those plans as the COVID-19 pandemic progressed. As the rest of the state adjusted to each new mandate as it came, resorts were charged with predicting how current protocols would affect a season that was still months away.

“We had to wait for so many pieces to fall into place, and there were so many things that we just couldn’t see from that far out.

The conversation has been ongoing throughout the year,” said Sara Huey, communications manager for Solitude Mountain Resort.

Utah resorts were tasked with altering their operations to fit this unprecedented season, but they were not without help. Many Utah resorts have ties to ski resorts all over the world. By looking to resorts in Australia and South America, they were able to see how resorts in the Southern hemisphere dealt with their winter season. The southern hemisphere gets the majority of their snowfall

from June to December.

“We looked to see what they were doing, what worked for them, what didn’t work,” said Andria Huskinson, communications manager for Alta Ski Resort.

These foreign ties have been helpful in winter planning, but the camaraderie among the resorts in the Cottonwood canyons is what will keep the resorts open with the ever-changing nature of this season.

“Utah is such a unique environment for operating a ski resort because we really do all have each other’s backs,” Huey said. “We work together really closely when it comes to the nitty gritty of day-to-day operations and sharing insight on what’s working, new ideas, and things like that.”

Although there will likely be changes in state mandates and protocols throughout the winter, ski resorts have proven to be flexible.

Resorts with summer operations have already been adjusting throughout the summer while Skiers lineup for Opening Day at Solitude Mountain Resort on Dec. 8,(Photo Credit Eric Schramm and Solitude Mountain Resort) allowing guests.

Changes to expect

In accordance with state laws, all four ski resorts in the Cottonwoods (Alta, Brighton, Solitude and Snowbird) will be requiring face coverings inside restaurants and lodges and outside when a distance of 6 feet cannot be maintained. Although neck gaiters are allowed, skiers are encouraged to fold their

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gaiters or double up to ensure safety.

Physical distancing will be maintained at resorts in high traffic areas. To keep social distancing in lift lines, Alta Ski Resort has coined a new term.

“In our lift lanes we have what we call ghost lanes. There will be a line for skiers

separated by an empty line,” Huskinson said.

“And naturally your skis in front and back keep you separated.”

Many resorts have used the pandemic to update their technology. Upgrades that have been passed over due to budget restraints are suddenly in high demand. Snowbird has add-

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Murray City Journal

ed a new app that helps determine wait times on ski lifts and Solitude has added touchless pay for parking.

“We are often limited by budget, which we balance with need. The pandemic shifted that balance and suddenly we anticipated a demand among our guests. In order to mitigate transmission, we needed to prioritize these changes,” Huey said.

Resorts are combining these new technologies with data they have collected through the years. Solitude looked to statistics to determine how to keep their resort at capacity. Solitude has ended same day lift ticket sales so that they can use their estimates to stay under capacity. The pandemic has demanded these changes, but many of the initiatives will have long-lasting positive effects.

“Ultimately, I think our efforts to address the pinch points through arrival where people are necessarily concentrated will contribute to a more streamlined experience even years down the road,” Huey said.

Although restaurants on the slopes are only operating at half capacity, guests still have many of the same options. Alta Ski Resort has even added two more grab and go food trucks in each of their parking lots to spread out guests while still offering an array of options. Restaurants will be unavailable as “warming spots” this winter and resorts are encouraging skiers to use their cars to warm up and take a break during the day.

As far as travel to and from resorts,

the Utah Department of Transportation will be working closely with the resorts and the Unified Police Department to keep roadways safe as they have in years past. For information on road conditions, visit udot.utah.gov.

What looks the same

In these unprecedented times, skiers can rest easy knowing their favorite resorts will look largely the same. Resorts are committed to providing the same top-tier experience that Utah skiing is known for. The nature of skiing as a physically distanced sport has allowed ski resorts to make small modifications to their operations that ultimately keep people doing what they love.

“Passholders should expect an experience that is pretty familiar to them. They should be able to arrive, park and head to the lift as usual,” Huey said.

Many resorts are still offering lessons to those looking to learn a new skill. Alta Ski Resort is only allowing private lessons, but they will look very similar to past years. Solitude is offering group lessons to ages 7+ and have only omitted the lunchtime gathering to limit time spent inside.

Something that will always stay the same is the terrain. The Cottonwood canyons have near limitless space for skiers and snowboarders to explore. Being out on the mountain will feel just as it always has.

Many resorts doubt they will reach the capacities set this year because of the vast area. Resorts like Solitude and Alta have been limited in past years by their parking

Alta Ski Area open and ready for the 2020-2021 season (Photo Credit Alta Ski Area and Dennis Turville)

ability, so veteran skiers can expect similar resort availability this year.

Check websites for updated information

As the ski resorts stay flexible and continue updating to meet state guidelines, they ask that skiers keep an eye on their websites and social media channels. With all the changes, it is best to stay informed before heading up for a day on the mountain.

“We’re telling people to know before you go. We’re really encouraging people to check the website before they even get in the car to come up,” Huskinson said.

All Utah resort websites have up-todate info on what they are doing to combat

the COVID-19 pandemic. For resorts like Alta that limit parking, they will use their website to give estimates on when parking will fill up. Knowing before you go will help skiers stay safe while providing them with more information than ever.

Lastly, ski resorts ask that guests be patient with employees and other skiers. As this is a new experience for everyone, there will likely be small hiccups along the way.

“We are doing our best to communicate clearly what people can expect,” Huey said.

“We need to be nimble and we need to anticipate that change is likely. We just ask that people be patient with that process.” l

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THE FIRST 4 SESSIONS ARE COMPLIMENTARY

January 2021 | Page 11

In 2020, Cottonwood football turned its program around thanks to its seniors

By Brian Shaw | b.shaw@mycityjournals.com

T

hey had already been in the program in 2020, ten seniors turned the Cottonwood for three years, going a combined 1-29, Colts football program around, leading the according to head coach Casey Miller. But Colts to a 4-5 overall record. It was the most games Cottonwood has won in over a decade.

But the manner in which these ten seniors stepped up will be talked about for a long time. Because instead of going for all the glory at the offensive skill positions, most of these seniors made the decision to fill up the offensive and defensive lines, added Miller.

“I really think their leadership and just grit and toughness to stick it out and their selflessness was key, knowing that the younger kids will get the recognition because they were the ones who score the touchdowns,” Miller said.

Wins over Carbon, Timpanogos, Providence Hall and Judge Memorial set this team apart, but in Miller’s view there was one game in particular that turned the season in a positive direction.

“I really think it was the Timpanogos game where we finally played well for four full quarters and the kids saw that the can play well for an entire game and that we can get that second win,” added Miller. “We played nothing but good close games the rest of the season. They believed they had a chance from that point forward.”

Jadakiss Sipai (Photo courtesy Casey Miller)

Jordan Poteki (Photo courtesy Casey Miller)

Page 12 | January 2021

What was the biggest moment?

JJ Mitchell (Photo courtesy Casey Miller)

Miller shared a short story about his team finding it hard to know how to celebrate the win over Timpanogos properly because in his five years of coaching at Cottonwood— three as offensive coordinator—winning games has been so rare.

“It was just them jumping in a huge pile and laughing, and actually being happy about something that has happened on a football field,” he said. “Watching the fireworks from the end zone and just looking like a group of kids so happy that their work had paid off.

Nothing crazy. We haven’t won enough for them to even know how to celebrate.”

But celebrate they did four times in 2020, eclipsing a lot of doubt about a football program that had to play an independent schedule because numbers at one point were so low.

But thanks to these ten seniors, whom the City Journals is proud to spotlight in this unique year of the Coronavirus pandemic, the Colts did more than unmask their expectations—they surpassed them all.

From one who was carted off in an ambulance his junior year and coming back, to two captains who accepted getting less playing time for the betterment of the team, and others who turned their lives around through football, the Colts were a special story. Let’s meet these young men, starting with those who worked hard in the trenches to bring

Cottonwood football back.

Doug Maughan (Photo courtesy Casey Miller)

John Congram (Photo courtesy Casey Miller)

Jadakiss Sipai: Major College Interest

Coach says: “Very quiet, hard-working kid who has started since his freshman year on both sides of the ball. A 300-pound kid who is hands-down the strongest kid in the program. Takes AP classes, has a 3.4 cumulative GPA and should get a chance to play in college. This lack of recruiting due to COVID is really hurting him.”

On schools recruiting Sipai: “He’s had some interest from the FCS schools from the state and some from the rocky mountain region. Things got shut down before anything got serious. There is an entire class of kids (2021) who are being hosed by the shutdown.

The top 100 kids aren’t being affected, but all the kids who fill 70% of rosters are...

Weber State has been in touch during the few open-periods in the last year. Montana, and some junior colleges in California specifically. The normal recruiting last spring got shut down right as we could have gotten him some interest…I’m really hoping the dead period ends and we can really push to get him a chance.”

Jordan Poteki: Mr. Reliable

Coach says: “Jordan is the comedian of the group. Always telling jokes and making everyone laugh. He also has family ties to

Murray City Journal

the program as his older brother played back in the days when Cottonwood was winning games in the late 2000s or early 2010s. He is our other big body.”

On his play: “He really stepped up this year and became more consistent with his play, which really helped us out a lot. We were able to use almost exclusively seniors with a couple of juniors on the line this year, which has been much better than the last few years with multiple freshman and sophomores up there just getting beat up by older kids.”

On his plans after high school: “He has some interest, no offers. Mostly junior colleges in California and Kansas.”

used football to learn about himself and become a more well-rounded person. He made Academic All-State this year having almost a perfect GPA for all four years of high school.”

On Doug’s future: “He is a National Merit Scholarship finalist, and had never played any football before high school. He has come so far and has been a great example that you can do well in school and be at all our football requirements if you are willing to work hard.”

Coach says: “Isaiah is a kid who’s older brother played at Cottonwood for us four years ago when we went 0-10. He has come to absolutely everything we have done for the past four years. He is also a wrestler. He has been a captain the past two years and again is a great example to our younger kids of how to stick it out, keep coming back and work hard every day.”

Doug Maughan: Model Student On his roles: “He played mostly offense Coach says: “Doug is the kid who has this year and a lot of special teams. We had

some new kids come out who played linebacker and he never complained about play- Ethan King: Back In Football ing less defense; he just wanted to have a sucCoach says: “Ethan came out this seacessful season. He just outworked everyone.” son after not playing the last three years. He heard from some of his friends that they are Joseph Madrigal: Stud Stalwart having fun at football and he decided to come Coach says: “Joseph is another four-year out.” starter. He was our leader on defense. He’s On what stood out: “He really helped played the same position for four years and us a lot by being good enough to play wide so there was nothing he hadn’t seen. He could receiver and let us not have to start nothing get us in and out of the defenses we wanted but ninth/10th graders at that position again.” and was our big bruiser of a running back.”

On other contributions: “He also added On his ascension to team leader: “Tough depth at safety, where we only have three kid who got beat up as a ninth and 10th grad- kids who can play that position. Another hard er, but was able to make his senior year one worker who did everything we asked him to to remember.” and was able to help us jump up to four wins On his future: “He is an AMES [engi- this year.” neering and sciences academy] kid, he is already taking several University of Utah Rocky Sarki: New To Football classes and I believe he will continue there.”

Coach says: “Rocky joined the team after like week three…never played in his Mike Miller: Secondary Leader life. Just played soccer, but our weight room Coach says: “Mike Miller moved here coach convinced him to try. He came out and from California two years ago and his life did kickoffs and field goals. Helped us a lot.” was a mess…failing all of his classes in CalOn his duties: “Kicked it deep and ifornia and he was sent here to live with his made all the field goals we kicked except cousin (JJ) to try and get him away from all the one that got blocked because of a missed the trouble he was getting into back home.” blocking assignment. Good kid who says he On his ascension to team leader: “He wished he would have played all four years. came to every practice his sophomore year We are trying to get him to get more soccer even though he was academically ineligible. kids involved in the football program.”

He did our study halls, and has done every- In Sum thing we have asked of him.”

Coach says: “They are a great group of On his future: “He will graduate high kids and they should be proud of what they school and got to play varsity football for the accomplished this year. So many kids have past two seasons and had a few big catches quit and not had the guts to stick it out and try this year and a couple of interceptions. He to make positive progress with the program. used football to give himself on opportunity Future teams owe them a lot for what they to graduate and not fall back into trouble. He have started.” l did an amazing job for us the last three years.

No [college] offers yet.”

Isaiah Marichal (Photo courtesy Casey Miller)

Mike Miller (Photo courtesy Casey Miller)

JJ Mitchell: Big Thinker

Coach says: “JJ is a kid who plans on being an aeronautical engineer, takes the hardest classes Cottonwood has to offer, and already has his plan for college. He is another one who has shown up every single day and has worked just as hard at football as he does at school and turned himself into a very good center and defensive end for us.”

On his best game: “I can’t think of a game where he didn’t play well this entire season and was easily the best OL and DL we had this season. He knows all the blocking schemes, and exactly what he is supposed to do on every play.”

On his work habits: “His hard work and his intelligence have allowed him to play OL/ DL very well even though some would argue he is ‘undersized.’ He is a kid who has turned himself into a good football player through hard work and determination.”

MurrayJournal .com

John Congram: Role Model

Coach says: “John is a model for the type of kids we want. He gets good grades, comes to everything, gives kids who don’t have access to a car rides to practice, and just works hard every day. I know he didn’t get as much playing time as he would’ve liked, but he always did everything asked of him for the team and was a senior captain.”

On John’s importance to the program: “That [characteristic Congram has] is the commonality with all the seniors. They have meant everything to the program. Showing the younger kids that if you work hard every day like they have, eventually good things will happen.”

Isaiah Marichal: Legacy Captain

Joseph Madrigal (Photo courtesy Casey Miller)

Ethan King (Photo courtesy Casey Miller)

January 2021 | Page 13

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Mayor’s Message

MAYOR’S OFFICE

Grant Elementary . . . . . . 801-264-7416

COMMUNICATION IS KEY

mayor@murray.utah.gov

Heritage Center (Senior Programming) . . 801-264-2635 Hillcrest Jr. High . . . . . . . 801-264-7442 Horizon Elementary . . . . 801-264-7420 Liberty Elementary . . . . . 801-264-7424 Longview Elementary. . . 801-264-7428 Ken Price Ball Park . . . . . 801-262-8282 Miss Murray Pageant (Leesa Lloyd) . . . . . . . . . . 801-446-9233 McMillan Elementary . . 801-264-7430 Murray Area Chamber of Commerce.. . . . . . . . . . 801-263-2632 Murray Arts Advisory Board (Lori Edmunds) . . . . . . . . 801-264-2614 Murray Boys & Girls Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . 801-268-1335 Murray City Cemetery . . . 801-264-2637 Murray Community Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . 801-264-7414 Murray High School . . . . 801-264-7460 Murray Museum . . . . . . . 801-264-2589 Murray Parks and Recreation Office . . . . . . . 801-264-2614 Murray Parkway Golf Course . . . . . . . . . . . . 801-262-4653 Murray Park Aquatics Pool . . . . . . . . . .801 290-4190 Mick Riley Golf Course (SL County) . . . . . . . . . . . 801-266-8185 Parkside Elementary . . . . 801-264-7434 Riverview Jr. High . . . . . . 801-264-7446 Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation . . . . . . . . 801-468-2560 Salt Lake County Ice Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 801-270-7280 The Park Center . . . . . . . . 801-284-4200 Viewmont Elementary . . 801-264-7438

Occasionally you may have the need to reach out to the city for one reason or another. Maybe you have a question about a recreation program or want to report a pothole. As a city, we strive to maintain an open line of communication with our residents. Our city website (murray.utah.gov) is updated regularly to answer many questions about what is going on in Murray. In May we implemented a new Murray City monthly e-newsletter to help keep you informed via email. You can subscribe to the email newsletter on our website. We also post on our city Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages. In addition, several of our departments, such as Parks and Recreation, Power, and Fire, post to their social media pages regularly. We also continue the longstanding practice of utilizing the Murray Journal to publicize city activities.

On those occasions that you need to contact the city, it may not always be clear which department or division can help you. On the front page of our website there is a “button” called “Report a Concern.” Clicking this button opens a window with some helpful phone numbers, and links to a form for reporting problems. Whether it be a street issue or a code enforcement complaint, using this form will direct your communication to the right person who can help you or respond to your concern. The mayor’s office can also help direct calls to the right department.

We want to make things as straightforward as possible in communicating with you, so we are always open to suggestions for improving our website and social media outlets.

Email is a good way to make suggestions and there are email addresses for all our departments on the website.

D. Blair Camp, Mayor

801-264-2600 If you have a complaint or concern, we want to hear from you.

5025 S. State Street Please be as specific as possible Murray, Utah 84107 and focus on the facts of the problem or situation. Often a resident is frustrated when making a report, but rude or offensive comments toward an individual or individuals is not productive. Our Murray City employees will respond and help where they can.

There are limits to what a city can legally do, and in some cases it’s not the answer the complainant may be looking for. Sometimes the city is asked to intervene on matters where the city has no jurisdiction or authority, especially involving disputes between neighbors and private property issues. In addition, the city has no authority to enforce HOA regulations. It’s also difficult to enforce anonymous complaints because code enforcement involves a criminal citation and by law there must be a complainant.

On a positive note, we appreciate your observations throughout the city and when you let us know there are issues we need to address such as streetlights that have burned out, signs that are damaged, graffiti, and so forth. We are constantly seeking to improve our services and communication. I believe in the concept of continuous improvement and I know that there are always ways that we can improve.

I like this quote by the author and professional speaker Rich Simmonds: “Communication is only effective when we communicate in a way that is meaningful to the recipient, not ourselves.” I hope you will visit our website and social media outlets regularly to stay informed, and please share with us your suggestions for improvement in making our communication more meaningful to you.

Murray Fire Department – Sub-for-Santa Annually, members of the Murray City Fire Department take on a Sub-for-Santa project, carefully selecting, organizing, and delivering gifts to a local family. This year, along with the Murray Local 4821 Professional Fire Fighters of Utah and Nordstrom’s Department Store, books, toys, and winter clothes were delivered to some children who had recently lost their father.

Firefighters, along with their spouses, took to the stores and with money from their own pockets, purchased items for the mother and children. The fire department doesn’t have a sled to deliver the gifts, but we do have some big trucks.

Last week, after all the presents were wrapped, it was time for the delivery. The big yellow ladder truck made its way through the streets of Murray to drop off the huge stack of presents.

Our Sub-for-Santa program not only makes the holiday bright for the recipients, but also for those who generously

donate their funds and time to this worthy project.

From our family to yours, we wish everyone a happy, healthy, and safe holiday season.

Murray City Fire Department Jon A. Harris, Fire Chief

Pickleball Play at The Park Center

Pickleball Play is a pilot program for The Park Center. This is an opportunity to get back on the court during the cold weather and play pickleball. Included in this program over an hour of play time.

All covid-19 guidelines will be followed. We are doing our best to offer programing that will limit exposure. Players must bring their own pickleball paddle. Max of 12 players per session.

Days: Dates: Location: Time: Cost:

Tuesday & Thursday January 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28 The Park Center (202 E. Murray Park Avenue) 8:50am-10:30am $20 Park Center Annual Members – $40 Non Members

Murray Aquatics Club Youth Swim Team

The Murray Aquatics Club “MAC” is a competitive USA Swimming team for youth ages 5-18.

Sessions: Session 2 January 4-29 Session 3 February 1-26 Additional USA Swimming fee: $105 per year LEVELS Gold Silver Bronze

RESIDENT/NON-RESIDENT $45 $50 $40 $45 $35 $40

Pre MAC $30

$35

PRACTICE TIMES M, T, H, F 4:30 pm - 6 pm T, W, H 4:30 pm - 5:45 pm M, W, F: 4 pm - 5 pm OR 5 pm - 6 pm M, W, F: 6 pm - 6:45 pm

Adult Volleyball Leagues

Adult (18 years +) Indoor Volleyball Leagues are for B/BB and A level players. Coed teams consist of 3 male & 3 female players, no other combination. All leagues have a max of 8 teams. No spectators allowed in the gym due to COVID restrictions. A charge of $30 will be assessed for any registrations taken after deadline if league is not full. No refunds after deadline.

Mondays – Women’s A Volleyball League Dates: January 11 – March 1 Location: The Park Center Cost: $270 per team Deadline: January 4, 2021 Thursday – Coed B/BB Volleyball League Dates: January 14 – March 4 Location: The Park Center Cost: $270 per team Deadline: January 4, 2021

Adult Cornhole League

We invite adults (18 years of age and older) to form a team with 2 to 4 people. In our league we play 11 rounds per game and best two out of three games is the winner. A bag in the hole scores three points while on the platform scores one point. We play two matches per night and have a post season tournament.

Dates: Night: Time: Location: Cost: Deadline:

February 11 - April 1 Tuesday evening 6:30 pm – 8:15 pm Riverview Jr. High back gym* $80 per team (includes a t-shirt for each team member) Tuesday, March 2 at 8:00 am

*No alcoholic beverages allowed on Murray School District property

HELP IMPROVE THE MURRAY LIBRARY Services are limited here at the library, but we want to do what we can to make them more accessible. We would like your input so that we can better help you use the library. If you’d like to help, please head over to murraylibrary.org/survey and fill out the survey.

JANUARY 2021

C ULTURAL A RTS PRESERVATION WITH BOB YAPP Storytelling Residencies Each year we provide storytelling residencies for grades 3-12 and Adult (18+). This year, we will be providing virtual residencies. If interested in participating in one of our residencies, please email klindquist@murray.utah.gov and include your grade/school or if you are interested in the adult residency. You can also find updated information on the Murray City Cultural Arts webpage at: www.murray.utah.gov/1293/Murray-Storytelling-Showcase

Bob Yapp, from PBS’ “About Your Home”, will be hosting two Zoom Webinars about preservation. Webinars are limited to 100 people. If interested in signing up for either or both sessions, please email ledmunds@murray.utah.gov to reserve a spot.

MURRAY CITY PARKS AND RECREATION THE PARK CENTER 202 E. Murray Park Avenue

Start the New Year with the gift of fitness, purchase a Park Center membership!

Facility Hours Monday – Friday 6am-8pm Saturday 7am-12pm

THE PARK CENTER RATES

DAILY ADMISSION

ONE MONTH + tax

Youth (3-17)

$3

Youth (3-17)

$30

Adult (18-59)

$5

Adult (18-59)

$45

Senior (60+)

$4

Senior (60+)

$35

Child swimmers (under 3) require swim diaper & plastic pants AUTO PAY MEMBERSHIP +tax

ADD ON per individual

Youth (3-17)

$12.50

$4.17

Adult (18-59)

$23.33

$8.33

Senior (60+)

$14.17

$6.67

PAID IN FULL MEMBERSHIP +tax

ADD ON per individual

Youth (3-17)

$150

$50

Adult (18-59)

$280

$100

Senior (60+)

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AUTO PAY ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP

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Available Add on: Adult: Youth, Adult, or Senior Senior: Youth or Senior No add on to Youth Available Add on: Adult: Youth, Adult, or Senior Senior: Youth or Senior No add on to Youth

Annual membership paid in full will receive a 5% discount All members must reside in the same residence. "Residence is defined as a person's domicile and the place in which the person's habitation is fixed and where, whenever the person is absent, the person has intention of returning."

GROUP FITNESS CLASSES Single Pass

$7

10 pack

$50

Fitness Classes for ages16 years and older KIDZONE

Hourly

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Off Site

$5

One 10 punch card

$25

Two (10 punch cards)

$40

Included in Annual Park Center memberships: Group Fitness - Over 20 fitness classes Murray Aquatic Center – seasonal outdoor pool

Youth Annual memberships may be purchased for children age 2 to utilize the 1 hour FREE child care daily.

Best Murray photos of 2020

Cottonwood’s Senior Jessica Loyd takes a breath during the marathon 500-yard freestyle as she swam a time of 5:04.82 to take first place in February. (Travis Barton/City Journals)

Susan Wright will move her costume operations across 5th Avenue; her original store will be demolished to make way for development. Wright inspects some of her costumes in March. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)

Captain Shida Ado was a major contributor to a Spartans season that started 1-9 in preseason before a 10-4 turnaround for region. The run continued into the playoffs where Murray, who finished with the No. 21 seed, upset No. 11 Spanish Fork and No. 5 Timpanogos before falling in the quarterfinals to eventual runner-up Timpview. (Travis Barton/City Journals)

Utah Virtual Academy Student Services Administrator LuAnn Charles helps to load food to a school family at the online charter school’s drive-thru food pantry during the coronavirus pandemic in late March. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

MurrayJournal .com

Tristan White was one of Murray’s seniors to play his final games for Murray High at the Graduation Cup in June, created after the high school season was canceled. (Travis Barton/ City Journals)

January 2021 | Page 19

Best Murray photos of 2020

Frontline workers in the battle against the coronavirus were honored May 21 by the display of a giant flag on the central tower at the Intermountain Medical Center campus. The 11,700-square-foot, 400-pound flag was unfurled on the west side of the hospital as part of National Emergency Medical Services Week. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)

Carrie Pace (left) found her Korean birth mother (right) after 40 years. (Photo courtesy Carrie Pace)

Dancers took to the stage at Twin Peaks’ culture night prior to the pandemic. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Junior forward Kyah Karr winds up to cross the ball to a teammate during the semifinals at Rio Tinto Stadium in October. (Justin Adams/City Journals)

Page 20 | January 2021

Hallways were less crowded on Friday, March 13, not because of superstitions, but as students stayed home after the announcement of the Governor’s COVID-19 Task Force’s guidelines that would eventually see in-person schooling canceled for the remainder of the school year. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Cottonwood High instrumental director Amber Tuckness, who earlier this year directed her music students from a camel during a concert, was named the Distinguished Service Award Music Educator of the Year.

(Photo courtesy of Cottonwood High)

Murray City Journal

Viewmont fourth-grade students get an introduction to coding with hands-on coding blocks. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

Cottonwood musicians from trombonists to percussionists wear masks, cover their bells and take safety precautions while playing during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Amber Tuckness/Cottonwood High)

Rachel Arlen of the Cottoncrest mountain biking team made up of some Cottonwood High and AMES students races at Powder Mountain in August. (Photo courtesy of David Butler)

Demolition crews began tearing down the landmark Vine Street properties on March 9. (Shaun Delliskave/ City Journals)

MurrayJournal .com

Murray Police Department Officer Matt Dibble knows he is responsible for safety and crime prevention as Hillcrest Junior High’s school resource officer. (Photo courtesy of Justin Nixon)

January 2021 | Page 21

Murray 2020 and beyond: A new normal

By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

J

ohn Lennon sang, “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans,” which could best summarize Murray City during 2020. The pandemic has changed Murray, and the question is, what will be the new normal after it’s over?

This isn’t the first pandemic that Murray has endured. The 1918 flu pandemic that hit Murray a century ago had a higher death toll but similar impacts. The city experienced a second wave of infections and required its residents to wear masks and social distance.

There was even the now-familiar resistance to mask-wearing. However, back then people were ticketed and even jailed for not wearing one or not social distancing in public.

To understand Murray’s future, one might want to review Murray City’s history after the 1918 pandemic. The city made improvements to its public health system, with the town seeking to increase medical services for residents. Murray also organized a Chamber of Commerce to help businesses recover, and then, like now, Murrayites’ real estate values increased.

Ironically, while one pandemic gave birth to the Chamber of Commerce, the current pandemic caused City Councilor Dale Cox, in the July 21, 2020 Committee of the Whole meeting, to summarize the organization as experiencing financial challenges and loss of membership. The executive director was furloughed. The Chamber’s board of directors reorganized, making Skylar Galt executive director.

Despite its challenges, the Chamber of Commerce announced an economic task force made up of local business owners and government representatives. City Councilor Kat Martinez, who is part of the task force, noted in the same Committee of the Whole meeting, “Efforts began by reaching out to businesses, other chamber members and people beyond their own networks to identify specific needs. What resulted so far is an online library of helpful resources related to the CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act, that helps keep

The historic Murray 1st Ward and Carnegie Library were demolished in Spring 2020. Property owners are proposing a mixed-use development for the spot. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)

available loans and grants updated as things materialize. The site is a user friendly touchpoint for businesses to use.”

Two significant causalities of the COVID-19 pandemic recession include long-time furniture dealer RC Willey and the Sports Mall, which announced that they would close up their Murray businesses.

RC Willey is planning to officially shutter their building on Winchester and 900 East after 58 years of business at that site. The building has grown over time, nearly tripling its space, but like many big-box retailers, the pandemic has hastened its demise. The store will close for good in early 2021.

With the loss of the tenant for whom the property was developed, the Boyer Company has approached the property owners and requested a general plan amendment and zone change to accommodate mixed-use develop-

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ment. The property also includes the Apple Spice Junction restaurant.

Alternatively, that would mean the RC Willey property could switch from commercial to mixed-use residential, namely townhomes, apartments and condominiums with retail fronts.

Big retail sites have slowly lost favor over the years; nationally, several large retailers have gone out of business. Shopping trends were already moving away from brick-and-mortar stores, and the pandemic accelerated this change as COVID-related quarantines steered people away from in-person shopping.

Murray City Zoning Division Supervisor Jared Hall told the Murray City Planning Commission, “Big-box and strip malls, that was development for the last 40 years. Wherever those are around, those are going to start to languish. The retail market is moving away from them.”

Also calling it quits is the Sports Mall. The behemoth private athletic club has called 900 East home since 1976. The vast complex includes several other businesses, including The Point After restaurant and Mirage Salon & Spa. Gyms have been among the hardest hit businesses during the coronavirus outbreak.

According to industry watchdog Morning Consult, consumers have purchased more home gym equipment and bicycles since March 2020.

The Sports Mall owners told the Murray City Planning Commission that they “…have seen declines in membership and faced the need for financially difficult and impractical repairs and upgrades to maintain the building

and keep the business viable with changes to customer habits and expectations.”

While there has not been an official closing date announced for the gym, the property owner has asked that the property be changed from commercial to mixed-use development.

The future for this property will be the same as the RC Willey building; it will be replaced by multi-family housing and retail.

Also coming to a close in 2020 is weekly recycling pick-up, switching over to alternate weeks. The exception will be eastside Murray, which falls within Salt Lake County’s public services. Per Murray City Public Services announcement, costs have made weekly recycling impractical.

Many restaurants closed to in-person dining during the pandemic, offering only take out. While restaurant cooks were retained to work the kitchen, most waitstaff were furloughed until restrictions lifted for restaurants that could provide socially distanced dining.

While large chain restaurants could buffer such an impact, many independent restaurants were forced to close. Two well-known restaurants in Murray were brought to the brink of closure.

Restaurant Morelia, a family-owned Mexican diner that has been on the corner of State Street and 6100 South for 30 years, put out a plea on social media. “We need your help and your support now more than ever.

We are currently barely staying afloat, and with winter approaching, we fear the worst may happen.”

That weekend, a line of cars stretched from the restaurant’s pick-up door, down the

Murray City Journal

Playgrounds throughout Murray were temporarily closed in 2020. They later reopened, requiring frequent sanitizing. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)

Murrayites will be able to drive on newly extended Hanauer Road in 2021. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)

street, to 5900 South.

CousCous Grill on 900 East sent out a text to their loyal customers that they were going out of business in November. Word spread, and enough customers showed up to help the owners keep the doors open. Both restaurants are hoping customers will keep coming through the winter.

Some smaller restaurants have stayed open with creativity. East Coast Subs created an ordering method from their parking lot, resembling the old carhop system. Other restaurants developed family-style take-out menu options.

Even with the current state of uncer-

on 900 East. Scandinavian Design furniture store is taking over the old Toys-R-Us building.

During 2020, new pavilions were installed at Murray Park. The final and largest pavilion, next to the Parks and Recreation Office, is set to be demolished, rebuilt, and ready by Spring 2021. Murrayites will have to wait a little longer for the Murray Theater renovation. Mayor Blair Camp said, “The $3.6 million in matching funds from Salt Lake County was cut after the TRCC (Tourism, Recreation, Cultural and Convention) tax money dried up as a result of the pandemic.”

tainty, some new businesses are going to risk it and open. One of the most anticipated is Shake Shack, which opened by Fashion Place Mall. The American fast-casual restaurant has a loyal national following, but the pandemic muted plans for a large grand opening.

Across the street from Shake Shack is newly opened Tom Nox Men’s Shop. Tom Nox is a local company and off-shoot of Utah Woolen Mills. It bills itself as filling a void in quality and opening-range luxury for menswear. It took over the former Cotton Shop building. Two other new businesses in Murray are EOS Fitness and AutoZone, both

Murray did see a new state-of-the-art fire station open in downtown Murray in 2020, and grand public tours are still promised for the future. Construction has started on the new Murray City Hall, with Hanauer Street scheduled to be completed in the next few months. l

Work has commenced on the new Murray City Hall. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)

MurrayJournal .com

January 2021 | Page 23

“Putting myself in your shoes, to help you through the biggest real estate transaction of your life.”

Jenn Kikel-Lynn, Broker/Owner (801) 641-1571 jenn@kikelrealestate.com JennKikelLynn.com closingdealsinhighheels.com

• 4th generation Murray resident • Murray Female Business Owner/Broker • Top 500 & Hall of Fame Salt Lake Board of Realtors Award Recipient • Utah Business Magazine “30 Women to Watch” Award Recipient • Founder of local non-profit for Suicide Awareness • Specialist in seniors, divorce, and estate sales • Certified Residential Specialist (CRS designation) • Expert in Salt Lake County & Park City sales

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The COVID-19 Impacted Businesses Grant Program, known as Shop In Utah, is a grant program to help support businesses and provide discounts to consumers.

Participating Advertisers: Cooking with Sharon Great Harvest Kathmandu Flourish Bakery Legends Pub & Grill Penny Ann's Cafe O Crab Cajun Seafood & Bar Kao Thai Epic Fitness Robintino's Tokyo Teriyaki Panwok Tokai Sushi Lettuce & Ladles Elite Chiropractic Iceberg Hopkin Oral Surgery Alpha Coffee Grifols Casper's Ice Cream Please support these local businesses!

business.utah.gov/shop-in-utah-offers Murray City Journal

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salt Lake 801.261.6180

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 at 801-254-5974 or email us at ryan.c@thecityjournals.com

A destination and a donation that make a difference The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Salt Lake remains open and ready to serve the community during the pandemic. The Larry H. and Gail Miller Family Club in Murray on 244 E. Myrtle Ave. offers child care and after school help Mon. – Fri. “Early on in the pandemic, we were approved as an emergency child care center. We have adopted stringent safety practices and are here to help families,” said LeAnn Saldivar, CEO of the nonprofit Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Salt Lake.

“Child care and education were big challenges last year. Parents need to go to work, and most who work from home can’t function effectively and help kids who are out of school.

“As a licensed care center, we’re a great one-stop shop. We provide child care and academic support, whether you’re attending in person or learning online,” Saldivar said.

With so many learning disruptions last year, the Club ramped up their efforts to help with higher level math and science subjects.

“As a nonprofit, our mission is to enable all young people to reach their potential. It’s especially important during times of social and educational instability. Some students are behind or missing credits. We’re doing our best to mitigate

those learning losses,” Saldivar said.

Tuition and memberships are affordable and the hours work with most schedules. The Club is open 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM, with programs for kids from pre k – 12th grade. More information is on their website at www.gslclubs.org or by calling the Miller Club at 801.261.6180.

Success stories of people who participated in Boys & Girls Clubs include Utah District Attorney Sim Gill. On the website, Gill writes about how his experience at the Club started his love of competitive sports and helped him make new friends.

Another success story is Sheila H., the Club’s 2020 Youth of the Year. Sheila attended West High School where she played volleyball, took AP classes and was in student government.

In a statement, Sheila wrote, “Going to the Club allowed me to express myself in ways that I could not have done at home or school. I could be happy or sad but I always knew there would be someone, staff or another member, who would be willing to help.”

Saldivar wants people to know two things about the Club: first, there are spaces available for kids to come and safely enjoy social experiences while getting help with school work.

Second, the Clubs rely on donations from the community to keep their programs going strong.

“It’s rare for us to be able to say that we

have openings. We know people are worried about spreading the virus. We’re following all recommended safety guidelines, including smaller group sizes, temp checks and extra cleaning. We have this down,” Saldivar said.

Donations ensure that Club programs stay available and affordable.

“Costs have escalated while revenues have

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declined. We encourage people to consider making a tax deductible donation on our website under the tab ‘Donate,’ and you can choose which club you’d like your donation to go towards,” Saldivar said.

To donate or get more information about their programs, visit the website or call the Miller Club at 801.261.6180.

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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.

It’s Official: The Year 2020 is Behind Us! Here at the Murray Area Chamber of Commerce, we know firsthand how difficult it has been for businesses to adapt to the everchanging circumstances of a pandemic. Many of our community members have scrambled to find new ways of doing business or struggled to stay afloat. Others have courageously gone ahead with opening new businesses despite the difficulties they knew they would face. Whatever your personal circumstances, it’s safe to say that last year was unlike anything anyone could have imagined.

The new year means a fresh start-and we’re not just referring to all the New Years’ Resolutions that may (or may not) be completed in the next 12 months. As a community we can resolve to come together to support each other and root for our local businesses.

Consider going somewhere within our community that you haven’t been before-you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what you discover! And if you’re a local business owner looking for ideas and support, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Murray Area Chamber of Commerce. We’d love to help you with all of your needs.

Looking forward to a great new year together!

Skylar Galt President/CEO president@murraychamber.net

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Page 28 | January 2021

Murray City Journal

your murray schools – Murray City School District Newsletter MURRAY CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT 5102 South Commerce Drive • Murray, UT 84107 Phone 801-264-7400 | Fax 801-264-7456

Website: www.murrayschools.org | Facebook: Murray School District UT The Your Murray Schools section is a Murray City School District publication, under the direction of Doug Perry, MCSD communications & public information.

A Message from Superintendent Jennifer Covington

Mrs. Jennifer Covington

As we move into the second half of what has been an unprecedented school year, Murray City School District is grateful for our students, employees, families and community.

Yes, we have all been working through some challenging circumstances this school year; circumstances we would not have chosen.

Despite this adversity, MCSD has not just survived, it has persevered with strength and boldness. The resilience and support from so many have not gone unnoticed. In a school year that has been challenging, there are still many things to be grateful for. We are especially grateful for the gifts of time and resources given to our students, our staff, and the district. It is those acts of kindness and commitment, small and large, which move us forward despite obstacles and challenges. Thank you!

There are many upcoming events and activities that our school community is looking forward to during the second half of our school year. We would encourage everyone to continue to do their part in following the public health guidelines set forth. Continuing to do so will give us a better chance at being able to hold these events and activities in some form.

We are currently in the season of inclement weather. If schools are not able to operate due to weather conditions, MCSD will pivot to remote learning for the day. This remote learning will start two hours later than the normal in-person schedule to give our teachers time to prepare and upload lessons. Every effort will be made to notify schools before the workday ends (the day before) if there is a possibility of school closure (100% remote learning) so teachers and students may prepare. Please visit our website at www. murrayschools.org for additional information on our MCSD snow day protocol which can be found on the Parents drop-down menu under weather, air quality, and emergencies.

We look forward to finishing our school year strong. Thank you for your continued support of your Murray Schools!

2021 MCSD Calendar Highlights January 14-15 Teacher Work Days (No School) January 18 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday (No School) January 22 Early School Dismissal February 15 Washington and Lincoln Holiday (No School) February 16-17 Murray High Parent/Teacher Conference February 17-18 Jr. High Parent/Teacher Conference February 19 No School February 24-25 Elementary Parent/Teacher Conference February 26 No School The 2021 MCSD School Year Calendar is now posted on the District website. The Murray Board of Education reserves the right to alter or amend this calendar.

MurrayJournal .com

Laura Baker Grants Murray Education Foundation announced its recipients of the Laura Baker Professional Development Grant. Named and founded in memory of one of Murray Board of Education’s long-time members, Mrs. Baker was a strong advocate of professional development among educators.

• Breanna Tomlinson, Murray High School Special Education: “Co-Teaching that Works!”

• Michelle Bouwman, Parkside Elementary School Social Work: “Early-Stage Interventions: Strategies for Every Teacher” • Cyndi Ralson, Liberty Elementary/Hillcrest Jr High Social Work: “2021 National Social Work Conference” • Lidia Delgado, Parkside Elementary Teacher: “Early-Stage Interventions: Strategies for Every Teacher” • Sierra Marsh, Grant Elementary Social Work: “2021 National Social Work Conference” • Claire Meier, District Office Technology Coach: “ISTE20 Virtual Conference” • Geri Smith, District Office Technology Coach: “ISTE20 Virtual Conference” • Mike Roberts, Hillcrest Jr. High Instructional Coach: “Instructional Coaching: An Introduction” • Melia Fidel, Murray High School Media Center: “UELMA” • Amber Rydalch, Murray High School Instructional Coach: “Kagan Strategies Adaptation for the COVID 19 Classroom” • Lora Bonham, Parkside Elementary Social Work: “2021 National Social Work Conference” • Catherine Bigalow, Murray School District: “Training and Certification on Handwriting”

JANUARY 2021

Open Enrollment Open Enrollment for MSCD just started. But don’t worry, you have until February 19 at 5:00 pm to enroll your student(s).

Registration is entirely online. Go to murrayschools.org/ enrollment to begin the process.

PLEASE NOTE: • There is a $5 application fee that must be paid online with the online enrollment application • Only one application is permitted per student (can only choose one school to apply for enrollment in) • Only parents and legal guardians can register a student • This is only for new students to the district or students within the district that are transitioning from elementary to junior high or junior high to high school – all others do not need to re-enroll.

• Non-resident applicants will be notified by email on March 31, 2021. If you don’t see this notice, check your email provider SPAM folder or call the District Office.

If you have any questions, please email the district at info@ murrayschools.org or call us at 801-264-7400.

PowerPlay LTE This month, Murray City School District (MCSD) launches PowerPlay LTE – including the first LTE connection in any school district nationwide. This initiative features a high-speed LTE connection, direct fiber connections, and hotspots that reach every home within the entire district with highspeed connectivity.

Made possible through Utah Education Technology Network and CARES Act funding, all students will have access to PowerPlay from home at no cost. This technology complements the District’s PowerUp initiative that put a Chromebook in the hands of every student two years ago.

Research shows that nearly one-third of all MCSD families have more than one student in the district. This makes connectivity and access to schoolwork a challenge at times with limited residential internet streaming. Additionally, 13% of MCSD families have unreliable or no internet connection in their home.

The combination of PowerUp and PowerPlay LTE creates a digital learning environment that is equitable for all students.

Watch for more announcements in the coming weeks as we prepare to launch.

January 2021 | Page 29

Salt Lake County concludes budget process with no tax increase

Aimee Winder Newton Salt Lake County Council | District 3

FAMILY MEAL!

With the final approval of the 2021 Salt Lake County budget drawing near, I wanted to share some of the proactive steps we have taken as your County Council to tighten up spending.

In June, because of concerns surrounding revenue impacts from COVID-19, we scoured our budget to find as many cuts as possible – leading to a massive $77 million budget reduction. Because of all the cuts we made in June, and because sales tax revenue did not fall as much as we anticipated, we ultimately had a fairly uneventful budget season.

As we strive to be as fiscally prudent as possible, one of our top priorities is maintaining our AAA bond rating. We are one of only 27 counties in the entire nation with this highest-achievable bond rating. Keeping this bond rating results in much lower interest rates on bonds and loans.

Here are some key principles I have always prioritized during the budget process, this year included.

First and foremost, tax dollars don’t “belong” to the county. The funds are yours. Taxpayers entrust the county, or any government for that matter, with a portion of their hard-earned money because they expect that entity to pro-

vide essential services for society to function. 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 flippantly say, “It’s only x dollars… so we shouldn’t worry about it.”

Any expenditure, whether it is $10 or $10 million, should be reviewed, and if 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, think constitutionally mandated services such as criminal justice and election administration. I also consider public safety to be in the “need to have” category, since keeping our residents safe is a core function of government. However, just because they are essential does not mean they are above scrutiny, because efficiencies can still be found.

The “nice to have” list includes quality of life services the county provides, as well as any other program or initiative that can easily be described as a benefit to county residents, but

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not necessarily considered essential.

Libraries and open space some of the things in this category.

The separation of these two categories 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, 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 fiscal discipline, and I will always advocate for this approach any time government is entrusted with taxpayer dollars. You can rest assured that for 2021, Salt Lake County has a balanced budget with no tax increase.

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Murray City Journal

Making the grade

Life

Laughter AND

by

PERI KINDER

When my kids were little, I did a bit of substitute teaching.

After I accidentally threw an encyclopedia and flipped a desk over, I realized teaching elementary school probably wasn’t for me.

Teachers are comprised of strong stuff. The molten lava that flows through their veins gives them courage and an unbreakable gaze. A skeleton made of graphene (200 times stronger than steel) keeps them steady and protects their hearts. And those hearts beat a consistent tempo that opens doors to new worlds and encourages students to find their own rhythm.

But teachers are exhausted.

I attended Viewmont Elementary during the 1900s, where teachers were the top of the food chain. I worshiped the good ones, feared the difficult ones, and loathed the mean ones.

I remember the “trip” our kindergarten class took to Hawaii where we ate coconut and learned the hula. And the teacher who caught us eating snowballs, so she melted snow to show us the dirt and grime. (I haven’t eaten a snowball in more than 45 years.)

Or the teacher who shamed me for not knowing the word “chandelier.”

School was where I learned

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social skills. Okay, I learned them poorly, but I did learn some. I interacted with people my age where we talked about our favorite TV shows, what we had for dinner and whether my crush winked at me or had a tic.

Today, students feel lost.

My 8-year-old grandson started the school year online, changed to in-person learning, then went back online. He might enjoy hanging out with his mom, grandma, and little demon of a sister, but he misses his friends.

Imagine trying to learn long division on a Zoom call. I couldn’t even learn it in person. Or imagine

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hosting a virtual call for a class of first graders who have the attention span of a meatball. My mom thought education was vital, but if she had to supervise online learning for me and my four siblings, she would have sold us to the circus.

Teachers are struggling. Kids are struggling. Parents are struggling.

If we’ve learned one thing this crappy year, it’s that superheroes walk among us. Healthcare workers and winemakers are tied for the top spot on my list, with teachers, students, and parents finishing a close second by demon-

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strating unprecedented resilience.

Many kids are failing this year, but are they really? Can you fail when a global pandemic changes the rules? When teachers adapt daily to shifting conditions?

Can you fail when parents work full-time jobs at home while staying on top of online assignments and hybrid schedules?

Teachers are a mighty mix of educator/guidance counselor/ cheerleader/cruise director, and this year their creativity and patience has been tested. It brings to mind my husband’s favorite quote, “Looks like I picked the wrong [year] to stop sniffing glue.”

This is a thank you to the teachers who work with my grandchildren. The teachers who are innovative and kind. The teachers who show up like a boss and get to work. This is also a thank you to the students who have proven to be flexible and strong. They’re all doing the best they can as they watch adults try to figure everything out.

Maybe we write this school year off; maybe it’s not the year to learn geometry or teach Latin. Perhaps it’s the year we value kindness, connection, and self-care for everyone involved. I promise, there’ll be much less encyclopedia throwing and desk flipping.

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January 2021 | Vol. 31 Iss. 01

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MURRAYITES INSPIRED TO CREATE AND SERVE DURING PANDEMIC

By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

T

here was a lot of grim news during 2020, yet there were numerous instances where Murrayites took a massive lemon of a year and made it into lemonade. With the pandemic around, there were many who ended up with plenty of time on their hands, and the Murray Journal found several stories to share where Murrayites came up with ways to create and serve those around them.

Gardening surged in popularity in 2020. Whether driven by concern about supply chains or having time to finally clear out that weed patch, residents kept Murray nurseries busy. Lowe’s sold out of many vegetable seed packets, and West Side Nursery’s vegetable starts were hot sellers. Of course, with all the plants comes the yield. Ace Hardware reportedly couldn’t stock its canning supplies fast enough.

With so many gardens blooming, Lynda Brown took up painting people’s gardens and selling her art. She returned all her proceeds to her charity, Kids Read. And it wasn’t just flowers and veggies sprouting in Murray yards in 2020. Next to Seth and Gerilyn Merrill’s garden, their whole family constructed an outdoor pizza oven.

The great outdoors became our best alternative to quarantining at home. Social distancing outside is more manageable, and some activities ensured it, such as horseback riding. Lori Haglund, who owns a horse farm on the east side of Murray, opened up the doors to her paddock and invited children to have field trips to visit her four horses.

After a neighbor expressed the familiar parental refrain Continued page 8

Lori Haglund gave children social-distancing opportunities to learn on her farm. (Photo courtesy of Lori Haglund)

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