Murray City Journal | October 2020

October 2020 | Vol. 20 Iss. 10

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LIFE OF A CONTACT TRACER: UNIQUE JOB FOR A UNIQUE TIME

By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

I

t’s a job that no one had really heard of until this year, yet being a contact tracer has meant life rather than death for many people susceptible to contracting the COVID-19 virus. For Murray resident Holly Birch, a clinic manager and registered nurse for the Salt Lake County Health Department’s International Travel Clinic, coronavirus meant being pressed into service as a contact tracing team leader when international travel came to a screeching halt across the globe in March.

As the pandemic impacted every facet of society, many county workers found their offices shut down, and employees who qualified switched over to contact tracing. “I have been working in the clinic for 18 years and with Salt Lake County for 21 years. Currently, due to the coronavirus pandemic, I am leading a couple of teams of contact tracers for the county,” Birch said.

When a person is tested for COVID-19, all the positive results from the State Health Department are entered into a system called EpiTrax. At the start of each day, county and regional health departments across Utah have a list of new positive cases in their areas and assign those cases out to investigators. An investigator contacts each infected patient within 24 hours (on rare occasions, within 48 hours) of being given a case.

Investigators ask a specific series of questions regarding the person’s symptoms and who lives in the same home. They also ask about where they work—

so the health department can notify the workplace of a potential exposure, which is anonymous—where else they’ve been, and who else they may have exposed during a time frame of two days before becoming symptomatic and up until the health department’s call. The investigator then instructs the patient on how to isolate themselves from the rest of the household and how to quarantine all other household members.

They also advise on cleaning the house, wearing masks, and monitoring for symptoms.

“Hearing the stories of families and people who are really struggling with their illness, with money issues; patients who have died and the heartbreak that the people are going through,” Birch said. “The other difficult part is that one case for an investigator can easily [become] six cases if there are five other people who live in the house, and then they become positive cases.”

Most contact tracers are assigned four cases per day because, on average, it takes about two hours to complete an investigation. In addition to interviewing the patient, the tracer completes all the charting, sends letters to employers if needed, notifies the workplace exposure teams, and helps put the family in contact with community resources. When positive cases go up in the community, tracers may be assigned more than four cases a day.

Infected patients aren’t always forthcoming, kind, or cooperative.

Continued page 3

Salt Lake County contact tracer Crystal Burnett reaches out to positive COVID-19 patients from her office at the Salt Lake County Complex. (Photo courtesy RaLynn Delliskave)

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Continued from front page The pandemic has been at the center of a lot of political strife over government responses to the virus and false information. Some who have it may react fearfully or with denial.

“We definitely get people who won’t answer their phone, return texts, respond to letters, or aren’t particularly nice on the phone.

However, some people have shown a lot of gratitude to us for helping them find resources to help them, and many have said they just really appreciate knowing someone cares about them,” Birch said.

As the medical community has learned more about the virus and how to treat it, contact tracers have seen firsthand how county residents have had to make changes in their daily lives.

“I’ve been most surprised that so many people think that it isn’t a real thing or that it wasn’t going to happen to them,” Birch said.

“I think we need to come together as a community and think about our neighbors, friends, those around us, and wear masks, whether you believe they work or not.”

In Salt Lake County, the total number of cases between March and mid-September stood at around 26,000, with nearly 250 deaths. Even with a vaccine promised soon, it is unknown how long county employees will continue working as contact tracers.

For now, Birch implores everyone, “please, if you are sick, stay home. Always wear a mask if you go out in public areas, wash your hands well, and stay socially distant whenever possible.” l

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Murray Mansion, a home to playful ghosts

By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

Former residents report spooky encounters at the Murray Mansion. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)

W

elcome foolish mortals to the Murray Mansion. While any Disney fan of the Haunted Mansion ride will recognize that opening line, Murray City has a mansion that also may be haunted. Past residents recall some benign spookiness that happened within the walls of the historic Cahoon mansion in downtown Murray.

Former resident and owner Susan Wright said, “There’s some spooky things, but they’re not scary, when I was there. Just things that happened that we couldn’t say why.”

Built in 1900 by local brickmaking titan John P. Cahoon, the Victorian Eclectic-styled home (4872 S. Poplar St.) has six bedrooms, five bathrooms, four family rooms, four fireplaces, and two kitchens. Cahoon also built his mother a home across the street, which is now part of the Tea Rose Diner.

A handful of owners have since lived

Journals

in the home, including James and Ellen Payne. Payne was pastor of the Murray Baptist Church (now called the Murray Chapel) across the street.

Wright, who had opened a store on 4800 South in 1970s, recalls driving by the historic old home with her husband Bill.

“He said, ‘I like that house.’ And, I said, ‘You’re kidding?’ It was just this old, rundown house with weeds all over, and it had gray brick,” Wright said. “I am not buying that house.”

After those famous last words, the Wrights purchased the house and started their odyssey of being major players in downtown Murray. But first, they paid a visit to Ellen Payne, and the Wright’s daughter even asked her if the place was haunted.

According to Wright, “She said that nothing bad ever happened in this house.

Everything that happened in this house was

wonderful.” The Paynes would rent rooms out to parishioners’ families or to families of soldiers stationed at Camp Kearns during World War II. Something did surprise the Wrights when they bought the home, and that was discovering the brick was yellow, not gray.

Years of soot from the nearby smelter coated the exterior walls a dull gray, which had to be sandblasted off. After renovating the home in the 1980s and restoring its Victorian elegance, the Wright’s moved upstairs while opening the rest of the house as a reception the center—the Murray Mansion. They renamed it because Cahoon Mansion kept being confused with McCune Mansion in Salt Lake City.

That’s when they first noticed the teasing of a mischievous ghost. “I think it was a child because she is fascinated with my keys. I put my keys somewhere and they’d be somewhere else,” Wright said. She recalls noticing her keys missing from a bowl she had always placed them in and hearing them being tossed across the room.

One late evening, Wright remembers being upstairs and thinking her husband had just returned from locking up the nearby Murray Arts Centre. After hearing a set of keys being hurled onto the staircase, she came down to see if her husband was alright. She discovered that she was still alone in the house and that the keys that had slammed into the steps were hers. The key-loving ghost would also set off the family’s car alarms, even though the cars were left alone outside.

From time to time, they would find chairs pulled out, different from where they last placed them.

A ghost with a more serious nature encountered the Wright’s grandson. During one stayover at grandmother’s house, Susan scolded her grandson for continually run-

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ning down the stairs and jumping to the floor from midway down the staircase, rattling the house’s mirrors. One time, when grandma was outside, the youngster thought he was alone and could pull off one more stunt.

According to Wright, her grandson came out, panicked, saying, “‘There is a man in the kitchen who is mad at me.’ He said he saw an old guy with overalls come out of the kitchen, and he reprimanded him and stuck his finger at him.”

They went inside to look for the man but discovered no one, and all of the doors were locked.

There were scary moments at the mansion, however, just not of an ethereal sort.

When the Wright’s bought the mansion in the early 1980s, there were several bars surrounding the house. After seeing fights break out at the cowboy bar across the street, they decided to start picking up properties and refurbishing them into the Ballet Centre and the Tea Rose Diner, thus starting the transformation of downtown Murray.

One last peculiar story Susan shares, was when she was tending her infant granddaughter. She could hear the girl in the crib upstairs pleasantly babbling, as if she was talking to someone. When Susan opened the door, her granddaughter addressed her as “Noni,” a nickname for grandma. When discussing the strange instance with neighbors, they were surprised to hear that, and mentioned Ellen Payne, who had since passed on, was called that when she lived at the mansion. From hence forward, Susan was called Noni by her grandchildren.

The Wright’s sold the mansion to Murray City, and the first floor will become home to the Murray Museum, as well as become a meeting place open to all Murray residents and ghosts. l

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Extra care given to student-music program during pandemic

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Hillcrest High’s wind ensemble practices outside at a social distance as a safeguard against COVID-19. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

South Jordan Middle choir students are spaced apart while practicing in the school’s kiva. (Norm Emerson/ Jordan School District)

Hillcrest High tenor saxophonist Zoe Welch uses a slit in a paper mask until instrumental masks arrive for Canyons School District student-musicians. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

“

One day at a time.”

That’s how the Utah High School Activities Association’s music educator of the year Amber Tuckness describes her flexibility in teaching Cottonwood High students while following the safe approach to vocal and instrumental playing during COVID-19 research provided by Colorado State and University of Colorado.

“Right now, we’re using paper masks, cutting a hole in the pleats for mouthpieces until the ones we ordered arrive,” she said.

“We also have given our saxophonists, clarinetists and trumpet players school-colored bandannas to cover the bells of their instruments. We’re not legally bound to do any of this, but if we don’t, it’s just risky.”

The instrumentalists’ fabric masks, which appear like a bird’s beak, have a flap over the mouthpiece to reduce the amount of condensation that comes out, Tuckness said.

Flutists will wear a flute plastic guard, similar to plastic shields, that will encompass the head joint of the instrument.

The specialized masks cost about $10 apiece while the flute guards are $14.

Tuckness said that they are looking

Page 6 | October 2020

into fitted bell covers at $7 to $17 apiece or they may purchase fabric for volunteers to sew students’ covers. They also are looking into how to cover the holes in instruments and may get puppy pads, which can be cut in smaller pieces for the spit valves of brass instruments.

Decisions are being made about choir masks, which are duck-bill shaped to allow singers more space, and cost $20-30 each, or perhaps, fabric may be purchased to sew for students to use as masks. Another option may be clear masks so mouths would be visible, said choir director Cecil Sullivan.

“They say droplets are the biggest thing (that help spread the virus) and we’re reducing those droplets hugely,” he said.

These are some of the purchases that may be purchased with $1,000 from Granite School District earmarked for high schools’ performing arts programs, which, at Cottonwood High, includes about 50 band members, 70 string players and 120 singers.

In addition, atomizer spray disinfectant is used in their classrooms and additional air is being circulated. Between classes, chairs and stands are sanitized. Students enter in one door and exit from another, have their temperatures taken before they start class and are physically distanced, such as large choirs are spread out 10 to 13 feet in the auditorium and only a limited number of students may participate in the orchestra pit during the school musical this November.

“We want kids to be and feel as safe

With masks on and bell covers over their instruments, West Hills Middle School band members return to play music this fall. (Norm Emerson/Jordan School District)

when we are back in class,” Sullivan said.

While the choir’s annual participation in the 700-singer Veterans’ Day and All-State Choir programs were canceled, the music directors don’t want students to miss out on traditional activities.

Tuckness is making arrangements for pep band to return to a couple football games this fall. They also are planning on their traditional Halloween concert since the school has the largest auditorium in the area with about 3,000 seats. Although the patrons can only fill 25% of the auditorium’s seating, there still will be about 750 seats available.

“We want our kids to be excited about being back and playing, but we want to be safe so we don’t go back online,” Tuckness said.

That is the approach many districts are taking. At Jordan School District, Fine Arts Consultant Norm Emerson said that students will use Merv 13, a commercial, industrial and medical grade fabric against airborne particles down to 0.3 microns, to make band players’ masks. They also have bell covers to contain droplets of moisture. For flutists, they plan to use flute socks, which fit over the end of the instrument. Brass players will use kitty litter to clean the spit out of their instruments.

“Our teachers are innovative and creative,” he said. “We never gave it a second thought about not having music this fall.

We’ve approached this with a great attitude, feeling confident that it will work, and our students will be safe.”

That includes Jordan District’s marching bands, which played Sept. 12 with a friends and family show. They then have four performances in the area before state Oct. 30-31.

“Marching band is outside, socially distanced, but all our groups are playing spaced apart. Our choirs are socially distanced at 12feet apart, wearing normal masks,” he said, adding that many groups are either in the auditorium or outside on the track and football bleachers.

Currently, Jordan District concerts will be virtual as will those for Canyons School District’s vocal and instrumental programs

as Canyons directors say 25% of their auditorium seating is too limited, said Canyons School District Arts Coordinator Sharee Jorgensen.

Canyons, which has two marching bands at Alta High and first-year Brighton High, both plan to play in local competitions and at state, she said, however, music tours for Canyons as for other districts are unlikely as travel is limited or put on hold until after the pandemic.

Canyons band players, too, will wear the specialized masks or flute guards, have bell covers and puppy pads once the orders arrive for middle school and high school programs.

High school vocalists will have the special singers’ masks, while middle school students as well as orchestra players, from elementary through high school, will continue to wear the same masks they wear to school.

Additionally, Jorgensen said that mouthpieces for instruments were purchased so students no longer share mouthpieces on rental instruments. Orchestras’ string bases, which often are shared amongst students, will be cleaned between students’ use. The cleaning of masks and use of stands—whether cleaned between students or students providing their own—will be determined by each school director.

“We’re going the extra mile for the students and all of this is extra work for every teacher, but it’s important that we are still able to make music, to do what we love,” Jorgensen said. “Our teachers, like our students, are dedicated to their craft and passion. Mentally and physically, it gives us a recharge and the arts is a social and emotional outlet for us in many ways.”

Through these times, Jorgensen said that many of the performing arts associations collaborated in determining safe practices and are continuing to do so as the school year began.

“We’re in it together to keep kids learning, keep them safe and keep them in the arts,” Jorgensen said. l

Murray City Journal

Volunteer help still welcome, but looks different in schools during pandemic

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

At Canyons, volunteers are still encouraged to register for a background check, so once they are allowed back in the schools, they can provide assistance to students. (Screenshot)

F

oothills Elementary Principal Cherie Wilson says in a typical year, parents, grandparents, retired teachers and volunteers give students about 200 hours of their time monthly.

This fall, however, volunteerism is looking different during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We welcome our parents, but we’re following the state guidelines to reduce congestion, so our volunteers can come in for a limited basis and with a clear purpose,” she said. “We welcome our volunteers as they are vital; they are valued and important.”

That means, Wilson said, that all volunteers need to coordinate with the school for times to come in and are helping in the classroom when the aides aren’t there. No students or volunteers are allowed in the hallway and they will be working with students on an individual or small group basis on math or literacy skills instead of helping with classroom parties.

Volunteers may work from their homes on preparations for parties, cut out items for bulletin boards or game pieces for centers, but those will be disinfected and isolated for a time before being used, Wilson said.

Volunteers aren’t needed for field trips and assemblies as they are canceled at least through 2020, she added.

“Our parents are finding new ways to help. We had some moms help the first day outside with the traffic flow, making sure our 850 in-person learners were socially distanced and the cars moved along,” she said. “We’ve had one parent come in the first week, but most are waiting. Our PTA, which usually is in the building, are preparing items at home and are in contact over Zoom.”

At another Jordan School District elementary, Jordan Ridge, Principal Melissa Beck said that her parents are finding other ways to volunteer.

MurrayJournal .com

“It’s forcing us to be creative as we have to limit our volunteers,” Beck said. “We held our back-to-school night over Zoom and our parents love it and want to keep it that way. We’ve added more classroom technicians to support teachers with small groups and individuals with legislative funding, but we’re still having parent volunteers cut laminated materials and are finding ways to put together class parties while at home. Creativity drives progress and innovation comes out of that progress.”

In Jordan District, 6,000 to 7,000 people are fingerprinted and have been background-check approved as volunteers so once the guidelines are eased, there may be more help welcomed in schools, said district spokeswoman Sandy Riesgraf.

Murray PTA Region 19 Director and Hillcrest Junior High PTA president Jeannette Bowen said that usually PTA members are busy now with activities, but this year, many events, such as fun runs and carnivals are postponed, following the guidelines with COVID-19. Instead, membership drives and sanitization donation drives are being held virtually.

“We’re working closely with the principals to see what is needed,” she said. “If PTAs meet in person, our volunteers are temperature checked and sign in, to minimize the number of people in the schools for the students’ safety.

Most PTAs are meeting virtually and are focusing on creative ways to show teacher and staff appreciation right out of the gate. We want to stand behind them and show our appreciation.”

Bowen said that many volunteers are checking with teachers to support them from home, however they can, but keeping in mind that the safety of the district’s 6,300 school children is the No. 1 priority.

“We want to help lighten the load of teachers and staff and we hope they know we are ready and willing when they need

us,” she said, adding that volunteers provided 22,000 hours of help last year.

Canyons District Public Engagement Coordinator Susan Edwards said that nearly 12,000 volunteers helped in Canyons schools last year, providing 93,564 hours of assistance.

“In a normal year, the largest volunteer events are usually field days, field trips, and class parties, however, last year, the largest number of individual volunteer hours were given in assisting students with reading, math and projects,” she said. “Our PTA volunteer leadership gave hundreds of hours to helping their schools and bring the spirit and fun into each school.”

However, this year, Canyons, like other districts, has limited the number of volunteers entering the school buildings.

“We felt like it was important to not add additional non-essential adults to the building until routines were solidly in place and we see how the first couple of weeks go. Then, we will add back in integral volunteers. This will look different school by school. Some schools have volunteers as reading or math aides, some are helping with preparing materials for classroom use, some assist with lunch and, of course, every school has PTA leadership that help with many programs in the school, including Red Ribbon Week, teacher appreciation, Reflections national art program and more,” Edwards said.

RE-ELECT

Before those programs are in place, she said that Canyons Region 17 PTA will be assessing their meeting situations and will be doing so online if social distance guidelines cannot be met and/or if the members of each group choose.

“Ultimately, the principals in consultation with their School Community Councils, PTA and staff decide what this will look like in their school. If they have a need that volunteers can help with then they will reach out to their parents and community members who have registered to volunteer at their school,” she said. “As schools find needs that volunteers can help with, each registered volunteer will first do a health check at the front office which will include temperature check and health questions. After which, as usual, they will sign into the volunteer kiosk to assure they are a cleared volunteer.”

In Granite School District, volunteering this fall will require more restrictions with respect to how they interact with one another, there still are needs for help in the schools, said spokesman Ben Horsley.

He suggests that those wanting to volunteer should contact the school to see what needs they have and how to register to help.

“Some schools have more needs than others,” he said. “We love our volunteers and still need them more than ever.” l

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Page 8 | October 2020

By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

Glo Merrill (center) pictured with several Murray principals, (l-r) Scott Bushnell, John Goldhardt, Richard Tranter and Dee Jensen. (Photo courtesy of Glo Merrill)

T

eaching has always been in Glo Merrill’s blood. She comes from a family of educators, not to mention she presently serves on the Murray School Board and spent decades teaching in a classroom or serving as an assistant principal.

“At a very young age, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. I started teaching my dolls and made assignments for my dolls.

In high school, I loved my business teacher, and I decided that I would like to teach business. I received a scholarship at BYU. I enjoyed business law, business management, accounting, generals, and religion courses,” Merrill said.

Due to her dedication to Murray’s schools, not only teaching business education courses but also serving as an assistant principal of Murray High and, now, on the Murray School Board, the Miss Murray Scholarship Pageant is presenting her with its “Woman of Achievement” recognition.

According to Pageant Director Leesa Lloyd, “One of the best parts of the pageant over the years has been recognizing a woman in Murray who has made significant contributions to the community. (Glo) certainly falls into that category.”

As Director of Career and Technical Education in the school district, Merrill pushed for expanding career and college readiness. “I enjoyed meeting with other directors in the state to ensure all students would have equal opportunities for concurrent enrollment, AP courses, and other new courses,” Merrill said. “We encouraged MHS teachers to add new courses that students would enjoy, such as SLCC concurrent enrollment, AP Physics, Spartan Vision, Nail Tech, Emergency Medical Tech, and SLCC Certified Nurse Assistant.”

In 2015, Merrill was involved in a statewide initiative to prepare graduating students for college and careers. The

legislature passed H.B.198, creating the Strengthening College and Career Readiness Program. She was tasked with implementing the Strengthening College and Career Readiness Curriculum for Jr. High and High School Counselors. The legislature appropriated money for 500 school counselors to enroll in a master’s level course at Southern Utah University. There, Merrill arranged for employers to advise counselors on their perceived employment needs.

According to Merrill, “I was surprised that the top five industries (largest Utah private employers) wanted students right out of high school to join their teams. Each industry is moving forward fast. They prefer to hire students right out of high school and start them at the bottom, and the students move up quickly.”

As a member of the school board, Merrill sees student’s needs beyond the classroom on a broader scale.

“There are students that have never had a Thanksgiving turkey, or Santa doesn’t come to their house. I enjoy reaching out to students and encourage them to work hard, and their dream job will come true. They just need someone to believe in them. I have also been involved in collecting coats, hats, boots, and backpacks for students,” Merrill said.

Merrill believes that many school buildings need updating or even replacement. She also feels that current Murray School District Superintendent Jennifer Covington is doing a good job unifying the district.

“The district office, principals, and teachers are working together as a team.

Our students feel safe and want to learn,” Merrill said.

Having taught journalism, accounting, business law, business management, computers, and computer programming, Merrill remembers her time working with students with pride. As an instructor, she was able to send students to Washington, D.C., to participate in national contests. She also showed a personal interest in the lives of her students.

“There were many students that had problems at home as well as at school,” Merrill said. “I reached out to them, and they would also stop by my office to ask questions.”

First elected to the Murray School Board in 2016, Merrill is currently running unopposed for a second term, which she looks forward to fulfilling. “There have been many challenges. Murray hires the best teachers,” Merrill said. “As a school board member, I enjoy visiting school community council meetings, or special events in our schools.” l

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October 2020 | Page 9

Local Murray races in play during a contentious election year

By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

Representative Marie Poulson’s (D-District 46) House seat is up for grabs due to her pending retirement.

A

fter a record number of ballots were cast in Utah’s primary election, Murray voters will head to the polls once again to decide local races in the Nov. 3 general election.

Murray voters will have the option to avoid polling places during the COVID-19 pandemic and, instead, either submit their ballot via the US Postal Service or drop boxes located throughout Salt Lake County.

According to the Salt Lake County Clerk’s website, “The Legislature has determined we will be able to offer in-person voting for the General Election at locations throughout the county. However, because of COVID-19, we are encouraging voters to vote by mail.”

Aside from national races, such as for president and US House of Representatives,

Murray residents will be electing members to the Utah State House, county government, and local school districts.

Those running for Salt Lake County Mayor include incumbent Jenny Wilson (D), Riverton Mayor Trent Staggs (R), and Green Party candidate Michael Cundick. Salt Lake County Democratic Central Committee members selected Wilson to serve the remainder of Ben McAdams’ mayoral term. He won election to Congress in the 2018 midterms and resigned as county mayor to assume his congressional seat. Staggs has served as Riverton’s mayor since 2017. Cundick lists his profession as a student loan consultant.

At-large county council incumbent Shireen Ghorbani (D) is facing a challenge from Laurie Stringham (R). Ghorbani filled Mayor Wilson’s seat on the council in a special election in 2018. Stringham describes herself as a business owner and educator.

Eastside Murray residents in Salt Lake County Council District 3 will see Ann Granato (D) run opposed for a second term.

The Salt Lake County Assessor’s Office will have a new person at the helm after voters choose between two employees of the assessor’s office: Residential Division Director Chris Stavros (R) and Certified General Appraiser Jennifer Fesques (D). Murray voters

will also select between Erin Preston (R) and Rashelle Hobbs (D) for County Recorder.

Wayne Cushing (R) is vying for another term against Michael McDonald (D) for County Treasurer, while County Surveyor Reid Demman (R) is unopposed.

A rematch is in store for eastside Murrayites; Kathleen Riebe (D) is defending her Senate District 8 seat against past officeholder Brian Zehnder (R). Zehnder was appointed to fill Brian Shiozawa’s Senate seat in 2017.

Riebe emerged from the Democrat primaries and defeated Zehnder in the 2018 general election to fill out the remainder of that senate term.

Northwest Murrayites residing in House District 34 will decide to either give incumbent Karen Kwan (D) another term or allow newcomer, educator Judie Roberts (R) a seat in the state legislature. House District 35, in north-central Murray, has incumbent Mark Wheatley (D) in a three-way battle with Luke Gustafson (R), an internal auditor, and Adam Bean of the United Utah Party.

In northeast Murray’s House District 37, incumbent Carol Spackman Moss (D) is being challenged by Utah Eagle Forum Executive Director Maryann Christiansen. And southwest Murray will decide a three-way race between incumbent Andrew Stoddard

(D), West Jordan Park Supervisor Kyle Bird (R), and United Utah Party’s John Jackson for House District 44.

With representative Marie Poulsen’s retirement, Murray will have a new representative for its southeastern House District 46.

This three-way race features educator Gay Lynn Bennion (D), Executive Officer of the Salt Lake Home Builders Association Jaren Davis (R), and retired attorney Lee Anne Walker (Libertarian).

Murray School Board members Glo Merrill and Jaren Cooper run unopposed in their elections this year. Eastside Murray residents living within Twin Peaks or Woodstock Elementary School boundaries will choose between business consultant Clarke Nelson and Granite Education Association Director Starleen Orullian.

The deadline to register to vote and request a mail-in a ballot is Friday, Oct. 23.

Voter registration may be done online at vote. utah.gov. A Utah driver’s license and current Utah address are required for registration.

Ballot drop boxes can be found at Murray City Hall and the Salt Lake County Complex, which will also have in-person voting on Election Day. l

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Murray City Journal

Murray revenue improves with sales tax/CARES Act funding

By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

An intersection is being created on 5th Avenue for Hanauer Street. Murray will receive $1,617,808 from Salt Lake County for the extension. (Shaun Delliskave/City Journals)

A

fter the COVID pandemic slammed global and local economies in March, Murray’s budget picture improved with increased sales tax revenue and CARES Act funding. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was passed

by Congress and signed into law by President Trump in March.

Sales tax revenues, according to the Utah State Tax Commission, increased 6.40% in June, compared to June 2019. The uptick in sales tax revenue is an improvement from April, where Murray saw a negative 29.4%

decline in revenue, that largest percentage decrease out of all Salt Lake County municipalities.

In comparison, Murray’s neighbors all saw double-digit increases in sales tax collections comparatively for June. Murray only outperformed Salt Lake City out of all Salt Lake County cities.

Utah received $1.25 billion in coronavirus relief funding through the CARES Act; $562 million of that money went to local governments, of which $1,456,622 was earmarked for Murray. Funding to the city was passed through Salt Lake County from the federal government.

At the July 7 city council meeting, City Finance Director Brenda Moore presented the funding agreement between the county and the city.

“We have to approve the receipt of the money and give the mayor the ability to execute the contract between the city and the county for the receipt of the CARES-backed money. We need to spend it by Oct. 20 and report to the county on how we do use these funds,” Moore said. The council unanimously approved the resolution.

Since some funding was not spent by the end of the fiscal year on June 30, the city council had to approve the rollover of funds

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into the new fiscal year. At the Sept. 1 council meeting, they specifically approved the earmarked items: $100,841 Justice Department COVID grant; $15,000 Utah Humanities CARES grant; $4,000 Utah Division of Arts & Museums CARES grant; $4,081 Utah Department of Health EMS grant; and $2,045 State Library CARES grant in the Library Fund.

According to Moore, “Budgets do not automatically roll from one year to the next it’s always stopped (at the end of the fiscal year and) the money goes into reserves. This is the process to get it out of reserves so that we can finish the projects.”

Moore added that the finance department was gathering costs incurred since mid-March, including labor, supplies, and ongoing expenses related to COVID-19 for the possible use of some of the grant money.

The finance department would also look at whether it would be possible to offer grants or assistance to individuals or businesses affected by COVID-19.

She clarified that money could not be used to offset Murray City’s revenue losses or directly pay customers’ utility bills affected by the COVID crisis. She would continue to monitor the rules and regulations governing the funds to understand the future appli-

cation, which changes daily.

In addition to rolling over funds to use in the new fiscal year, the city council increased the budget for animal control contract services: $12,928 for the Urban Wildlife Assistance Program. The wildlife in question are skunks, about which the city has received numerous complaints.

The city’s new animal control contract with Salt Lake County will pay its Animal Services Division to trap and relocate the animals. In the summer, skunks were found around Murray City Hall. Large skunk populations have been found along the Jordan River Parkway. The animals take advantage of pet food set out by homeowners and stray-animal activists. There was also a recent cougar sighting near TOSH. The city council also approved the receipt and appropriation of $2,074,149 from Salt Lake County for the Capital Improvement Projects Fund. These funds will go toward two large projects: the 900 East Vine Street to Van Winkle project ($456,341) and the Hanauer Street extension ($1,617,808) in downtown Murray. l

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Our Shared Priorities

Throw in the unexpected, but Murray High students still plan to bring theatre to the stage

ECONOMY

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

We are fortunate to live in a state with a thriving economy. Our economy is strong because of our entrepreneurs and our people, not our government.

PUBLIC SAFETY We all desire a safe and inclusive community. I will do all I can to ensure our firefighters and police officers have the necessary resources and funding to keep us safe.

MENTAL ILLNESS & SUICIDE PREVENTION As many can relate, I recently lost my son to addiction and mental illness. I will work tirelessly to provide resources, research, and funding to the necessary organizations whose mission is to combat this unfortunate pandemic.

EDUCATION An investment in our teachers is an investment for our future. We need to focus on a comprehensive, responsive, and coordinated education system that is well funded and has the necessary resources to be successful.

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Even though Murray High theatre students presented “Peter and the Starcatcher” with homemade puppets virtually as their live production was canceled with the soft closure of schools, this fall, they hope to open their season with an in-person presentation of “Little Women.” (Screenshot)

W

hen Murray High theatre director Will Saxton ushered out students March 12 when Murray School District went on soft closure, he didn’t expect what all life was going to throw at him.

Like schools across the state, that soft closure was extended—ultimately through the end of the school year. It was one week before “Peter and the Starcatcher” was set to be performed on stage and the day before individuals were to compete at region.

Fortunately, they already performed their student-devised one-act play the day before and were awarded best large ensemble for 5A in region 6.

Still his students persevered, presenting “Peter and the Starcatcher” with homemade puppets over Zoom and reciting their lines so parents could watch the production.

“It was a poor substitution for the actual performance, but it was still kind of cute,” he said.

Murray students also created a radio performance with music and sound effects of William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and presented that in late May. Students also voted on a fall musical, selecting “Little Women,” as it has a smaller cast and will have a simpler set, which during the restrictions made in place for COVID-19 pandemic, seemed more appropriate, Saxton said. Auditions were held online in May. An added bonus was that “Little Women” is a show that Saxton felt his substitute director, Amy Garrard, would excel at as he told students in June that he would be not directing, but stepping into a producer role, since he was diagnosed with cancer.

“I didn’t notice any symptoms until the end of April and a week later, I was having surgery,” he said, adding that doctors told him his prognosis was good. “It’s been a challenge, but life is full of those, especially these days. I really appreciate Principal

(Scott) Wihongi, Supt. (Jen) Covington, the district, the board working with me, and Amy and my sub, working with the performing arts team. We have amazing leaders who are super supportive.”

As of late August, Saxton had completed his chemotherapy treatments and was waiting until he recovered to return to school. He hopes to be back Nov. 2, 10 days before the musical run of Nov. 12-13 and Nov. 16.

“If school is still in session, I’ll be happy to go back. We’re very disciplined in wearing masks and our social distancing and I’ll be extra careful,” he said. “Amy is someone I really trust and is doing a terrific job.”

Garrard, who helped with last year’s production of “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” is working with choir director Alan Scott with music and dance company director Leesa Lloyd with choreography, both of whom have worked alongside Saxton for 15 years. She also is working with band director Jordan Beckstead with the orchestra pit.

Murray School District currently is reviewing guidelines to determine if audience members could attend in person, but Saxton said he already knows that “we can’t fill the auditorium like we usually do.” He isn’t sure if the district will follow nearby districts’ guidelines of in-person audience at 25% capacity or if they will livestream the show.

“We’re wanting to have students have the joy of going through with the show, experiencing it on stage,” he said. “We haven’t planned any further than the musical as I don’t want to get students hopes up for a season just to be shut down again. If school stays open, we’ll plan our theatre season and stick with it, one show at a time.”

Saxton is teaching online early this fall and has a long-term in-class substitute who is helping until he returns. The substitute also is helping him coordinate their ensemble piece of “Julius Caesar” and individual events that will be submitted in late September for the 44th annual high school Shakespeare Festival, which will be virtual. Although winners are expected to be announced Oct. 9, Saxton said he has students participate for other reasons.

“Shakespeare is a key component to our program, and we do it right off, as students learn so much about theater, the history of theater, and influences in all education,” he said. “They’re getting professional quality feedback, which is just priceless.”l

Murray City Journal

Chalk one—or many —up to sidewalk art

By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

Jr. Jazz Basketball

NOW ENROLLING! REGISTRATION OPENS: September 17, 2020 REGISTRATION DEADLINE: November 6, 2020 SEASON RUNS: December 7, 2020 - February 5, 2021 An Amazon red-eyed tree frog by chalk artist Jake Nissalke.

V

isitors to Germania Park (5243 S. Murray Parkway Ave.) were treated to not only pleasant temperatures but to over 25 works of art, chalked onto the sidewalk Sept.

12. The Murray Cultural Arts department sponsored the chalk art gallery.

Judges awarded prizes to Hollie Anderson, Best-in-show; Cindy Nissalke, Adult age group winner; Lily Dooley, Child winner; Abby Jaeckel, Teen winner; Dilan Mena and Kaitlyn Hansen, Group winner, and featured artist Camille Grimshaw. l

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Murray City Journal

OCTOBER 2020

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

murray.utah.gov

Mayor’s Message The Time to Prepare is Now The unusual events of 2020 continue to serve as a reminder of the importance of emergency preparation. The pandemic had many people evaluating the need for a supply of essential goods and food.

The earthquake reminded us of the need for emergency kits, emergency plans, emergency power sources, braced water heaters, and so on. Extreme heat and lack of rain contributed to wildfires. Each of us has needed a cool place to rest and recover from the heat this summer. The recent windstorms that battered the Wasatch Front caused damage to many homes and resulted in multiple power outages, some extended to five days and beyond, and emphasized the need to have a contingency plan in place in case of prolonged outages.

These incidents during the past months have reminded me how vulnerable we are as individuals, yet how resilient we are as a community.

Helping our neighbors in time of need is something that we are good at, but we need to plan to be prepared to meet our own needs as much as possible, and then be prepared to help our neighbors. The city has a limited emergency management staff to help navigate the complex State and Federal processes, and although the city will help where it can, individuals should not plan to rely upon the city in an emergency. The key to dealing with life’s unexpected events is preparation. Roger Maris once said, “you hit home runs not by chance, but by preparation.”

How we each prepare will depend on our individual needs and circumstances. Battery powered lights are always a good idea to have on hand, but the batteries need to be checked on a regular basis. It may make sense for you to own a generator for keeping your refrigerator or freezer running in the event of a power outage, while others may make

MAYOR’S OFFICE

D. Blair Camp -Mayor mayor@murray.utah.gov 801-264-2600 5025 S. State Street Murray, Utah 84107

plans for family or friends to take food or bring in dry ice. Some may plan to evacuate when needed, while others may need assistance in evacuating. Some may need to plan for the care of their pets, while others do not. The point is that one size does not fit all, but what is universal is the need to have a plan!

You may be asking “how do I make a plan?” There are many helpful resources available to the public to assist in a preparedness plan. The Ready. gov website (https://www.ready.gov) is a good resource for general preparedness information from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

The “Make a Plan” tab is a good starting point for anyone. The American Red Cross (www.redcross.org) has many tips and resources for emergency preparedness. The “Be Ready Utah” site (www.utah.gov/beready) is the emergency preparedness resource for the State of Utah. It contains helpful content and links in developing your emergency plan. And finally, our Murray City website (https://murray.utah.gov/1174/Emergency-Preparedness) has information on local resources for emergency planning including the Murray Family Emergency Handbook. In addition to these government resources, there are neighborhood groups and faith-based organizations to assist individuals and families in being prepared.

We can see that there are no shortages of resources to help plan, so the next step is to do it! Whether you are making a new plan from scratch or dusting off and updating an old plan, the important thing is to do it!

When the next unusual event strikes, will you have a plan? When the emergency hits, the time for planning and preparation has passed. Let’s be prepared to help ourselves, which in turn will enable us to help others during times of crisis.

Murray Fire Department reminds residents to “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!™ Murray City Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®) — the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years —to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign. This year’s theme, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen,” is a means of educating everyone about the simple but important actions we can take to stay fire safe.

According to NFPA, cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the United States. Almost half (44%) of reported home fires started in the kitchen. Two-thirds (66%) of home cooking fires start with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.

Kitchen fires are 100% preventable if we all work together on improving kitchen safety. Staying in the kitchen, using a timer, and avoiding distractions, such as electronics or TV, are steps everyone can take to keep families safe in their homes. “A cooking fire can grow quickly. I have seen many homes damaged and people injured by fires that could easily have been prevented,” said Deputy Fire Marshal Pat Killion.

Here are a few safety tips to prevent cooking fires: • Never leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling or broiling. If you need to leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove.

• If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you’re cooking.

• You should be vigilant when cooking. You won’t be alert if you are sleepy, have taken medication or consumed alcohol that makes you drowsy.

• Always keep an oven mitt and pan lid nearby when you’re cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan to smother the flame.

Turn off the burner, and leave the pan covered until it is completely cool.

• Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

The Murray City Fire Department is hosting a series of events in support of this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign. Adhering to COVID restrictions, a video is being made available to all 2nd grade students.

Look for daily social media safety messages, and as you make your daily trek around Murray City, search for our traveling fire safety banner, a family-friendly game to raise awareness of the importance for fire safety.

Murray Fire Department encourages all residents to embrace the 2020 Fire Prevention Week theme.

We look forward to providing additional fire safety tips in the future and hope you’ll join us in staying fire safe.

Message from the Council Hello Murray residents!

I am so proud to be the first Latina elected to the Murray City Council and represent the growing diversity that we are seeing in Rosalba Dominguez our communities across the State. As the daughter of immigrants, my parents believed District 3 in giving my brother and me an opportunity to work hard, dream big and always give back to our community.

Since taking office in January, I have learned so much about how our local government works while serving as Council Chair and representing Murray in organizations such as the League of Cities and Towns and the Association of Municipal Councils. I am honored to participate in these new capacities as a freshman council member and I continue to be inspired by our residents who are the heart and soul of our City.

As I’ve taken on the learning and challenges of being a council member, I am convinced now more than ever that we live in the best city with residents and city workers who love and take pride in their community. When the COVID-19 pandemic began to unfold, residents quickly mobilized to check on their neighbors, set up food drives for struggling families and provide masks to prevent the

spread of the virus. When the Wasatch Front was struck with high winds last month, our Public Works department quickly deployed drop-off locations for green waste and coordinated with the Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake & the Navajo Nation to donate tree debris as firewood for elders living on the reservation. These small acts of kindness and commitment to service is what makes Murray such a great place to live.

Nobody could have predicted how 2020 would play out: the COVID-19 pandemic, an earthquake, social unrest, evolving school plans and so much more have made for a rollercoaster of a year. Through it all, I have seen your resilience, compassion, and perseverance and I couldn’t be more proud to serve the City of Murray. As we look to the future, I believe we all share a common goal of making our City better than it was before. We are stronger together when we make a personal commitment to listen, take care of our families, and support each other to create an inclusive, thriving community for all residents. In my role I would like you to know I am here to listen and help in any way I can, so please continue that conversation with me and your elected officials.

Rosalba Dominguez Council District 3

Murray Senior Recreation Center

CITY COUNCIL Council District 1 Kat Martinez 801-264-2624

kat.martinez@murray.utah.gov Council District 2 Dale M. Cox 801-264-2624

dale.cox@murray.utah.gov Council District 3 Rosalba Dominguez 801-264-2624

rosalba.dominguez@murray.utah.gov Council District 4 Diane Turner 801-264-2624

diane.turner@murray.utah.gov Council District 5 Brett A. Hales 801-264-2624

brett.hales@murray.utah.gov Although the Murray Senior Recreation Center remains closed for the protection of its vulnerable participants, we are looking at and implementing ways to serve the 55+ population in a fun and safe manner.

We will continue to offer lunches for pickup Monday through Friday from 11:30 to 12:30 to those who give us 24 hours advanced notice. Cost is $4 per lunch and a lunch order can be made and paid for by calling 801-264-2635.

Credit cards will be taken over the phone. Lunches consist of ham, turkey or roast beef sandwiches, white or wheat bread, or wraps, burgers or bratwursts.

Car Bingo will take place every Wednesday in the west parking lot of the Center from 9–10:30 a.m. through October.

You must call to register in advance and play will be limited to the first 20 cars. Volunteers will escort you to a parking spot (social distancing) and give you 4 different Bingo cards per person (maximum of 2 people per car). Bring your own marker and mask, honk your horn once if you need the number repeated and twice if you have Bingo! Prizes including gift certificates and Village Inn pies will be given to the winners of each game. Remember to stay in your car, wear your mask and don’t idle your car while playing (it’s against City ordinance).

FLU and PNEUMONIA SHOTS will be offered on Friday, October 2 from 10 a.m. to noon by Community Nursing

Services (CNS) in the Grant Park Pavilion, next to the Murray Senior Recreation Center. You must bring the following items with you before receiving your flu shot: Insurance or Medicare card (must have Part B) and photo ID. Community Nursing Services is contracted to directly bill most health insurances (If you do not have insurance, there will be a cost for the shots).

GRIEF SUPPORT On Friday, October 9 & 23, the Center is offering a Grief Support Class on Zoom at 10:30 a.m. You will need a working email address and internet access. There is no charge for this Zoom class, but registration is required. Jody Davis, a Chaplin from Rocky Mountain Hospice, will lead this discussion group. Grief is not limited only to the death of a loved one; it may also be caused by a reaction to divorce, a decrease in physical ability, and other grief-producing events that are too common as we age. Call the Center at 801-264-2635 to register.

#10 East 6150 South (one block west of State Street) For information on these and other great programs call 801-264-2635

Executive Director Janet M. Lopez Office: 801-264-2622

jlopez@murray.utah.gov

Telephone Agenda Information 801-264-2525

OCTOBER 2020 Murray Power Department

Murray Public Works Department

Murray City Power’s Facebook Virtual Public Power Celebration Join us for a Virtual Public Power Celebration, October 5-9, 2020. Along with daily energy savings tips, daily prizes will be given away*. In order to qualify to win a prize, you must be a Murray City Power customer with an account in your name. Other than that, just “Like” the daily Facebook post.

You can always choose to follow Murray City Power’s Facebook page for news on outages, community events, power-saving tips and Power Department news. However, following our page doesn’t increase your chance of winning! Good luck and please share with your Murray City Power neighbors!

Murray City Power’s Photo Contest in Conjunction with our Virtual Public Power Celebration* Murray City Power is holding our first-ever contest in conjunction with our Virtual Public Power Celebration October 5-9, 2020. Send a picture of you or your family using an electric -powered device OR saving electricity to bishino@murray.utah.gov by midnight Monday, October 12. Winners will be announced on Monday, October 19. You must be a Murray City Power customer, with an account in your name, in order to qualify. Terms and conditions apply. The winners give permission to have their picture featured on Murray City Power’s Facebook page. *Terms and Conditions apply.

Visit our website for details: www.murray.utah.gov/1867/Virtual-Public-Power-Celebration-2020

For additional information, contact Murray Power Department at 801-264-2730

Murray City crews and contractors have completed several roadway improvement projects this past summer. Full road reconstructions occurred at 6410 South, Joma Street, Westridge Street, La Salle Drive (6000 South), 600 West off La Salle Drive, and Jamaica Street. In addition to full road reconstructions, mill and overlay projects were completed on 5600 South from State Street to 900 East, 4800 South from 600-150 West, 300 West from 6500 South to Midvale, and Woodoak Lane from Vine Street to Executive Park Drive. These mill and overlays will extend the life of the roadways 10-15 years.

Various safety and maintenance projects were completed including the bridge deck overlay of Cottonwood Street over 5300 South; signal projects at Vine Street and Commerce Drive, Vine Street and Murray Boulevard, and 5900 South and 700 West; as well as sidewalk safety and drainage repairs on Lucky Clover Lane.

Work has begun on the Hanauer Street alignment in the Murray City Center District. This new road alignment includes storm drain, sewer, and water utilities and will be completed over the next few months, weather permitting.

The design of Vine Street from 1300 East to the Van Winkle Expressway is progressing. A survey was distributed in August seeking input from Vine Street users on the future alignment of the roadway between 1500 East and 1800 East, where Vine Street narrows and lacks safe pedestrian access. The results of the survey are posted on the City website under the Engineering page.

We are continuing the process of updating the City’s Transportation Plan. This plan evaluates the current and future travel through the city by walking, biking, driving, public transit or other modes. The city sought input on transportation concerns from residents and commuters alike in a survey this past summer. Survey results and more information can be found at www.murraytransportationplan.com.

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

Lori Edmunds: 801-264-2620

HAUNTED TALES Learn how to write spooky short stories & poems through after school virtual workshops.

Students grades 3-12 can submit their Halloweenthemed entries and be judged for prizes.

Entries will be judged by the following grade categories: 3-5, 6-8, 9-12th for both Short Stories and Poems. Deadline: October 19, 2020.

First place winners will receive a gift card. Top ten winners will receive a certificate and will have the chance to submit a video presentation of their entry to be showcased on the Murray City Cultural Arts Facebook page and Youtube channel.

More details on the workshops can be found at www.murray.utah.gov/1649/Haunted-Tales

JURIED ART SHOW Murray Artists ages 18 and older are welcome to enter our Juried Art Show. This year, the art show will be held at Fashion Place Mall (Inside Dillards Entrance) November 3-5. Entries are due at Fashion Place Mall, November 3 between 8-10 a.m.

Artists can enter up to two 2D entries and two 3D entries. Submissions must have been created within the last 2 years and have not been entered in past Murray City Juried Art Shows. You can find more information and the entry form online at www. murray.utah.gov or at the Murray Parks & Rec Office.

Murray Library

ARTSPOWER

“JUDY MOODY AND STINK”

ArtsPower is a national touring theatre who will be performing their musical, “Judy Moody and Stink.” This performance is offered to elementary schools, grades 2-4 through the Murray School District. This year, we will be opening free seats to any 2-4 child who lives within Murray City boundaries, including homeschoolers.

It is strongly suggested for students to read the book “Judy Moody Gets Famous”by Megan McDonald and illustrations by Peter Reynolds, prior to the performance. The performance will be held March 17, 2021 at 10 a.m. in the Murray High School Auditorium.

Registration (free) can be found at mcreg.com. Seats are available on a first come first serve basis. **Performance and availability are subject to change.

166 East 5300 South • Murray, UT 84107

MURRAY LIBRARY LIMITED EDITION – Visits to the library may be limited, but perhaps not as limited as you think!

HOLD PICKUP SERVICE Most materials in the library are available through the Hold Pickup Service. Browse the catalog on murraylibrary.org and put an item on hold. Once you get an email that your items are ready, you can pick them up at the south end of the library by following the posted instructions. Have your phone and library card information ready!

Hold pickup hours are Monday - Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

ONLINE RESOURCES Murray Library’s online services and programs are available all the time. Use your library card to access all of Murray Library’s digital collections. You can read or listen to a book, learn a language or find a crafting project on your tablet, phone or computer. The library subscribes to several apps including Libby, Hoopla, RB Digital, Creativebug and Rosetta Stone.

Don’t have a library card? Utah residents can apply online for an eCard that will give you access to the digital catalog.

COMPUTERS BY APPOINTMENT The computers, printer and scanner are available by appointment. Masks are required. No more than 2 people per reservation. Sign up for an appointment at murraylibrary.org reservations.

BROWSE AND BORROW BY APPOINTMENT Make an appointment to pick up your holds and browse a limited collection of items.

Masks are required. No more than 2 people per reservation. Sign up for an appointment at murraylibrary.org/reservations.

PROGRAMMING While in-person events are on hold, Murray Library is offering online events for kids. Read stories and sing songs by attending Online Story Times. We have new events live every day, and a catalog of past Story Times on our YouTube page. Each month the library has a Kid’s Create activity where you can pick up a craft bag at the library and then do the craft while following along online. The library is hosting a special online event each month, including the upcoming Murray the Dragon event on Sept. 19. See our website calendar for details.

WE RECOMMEND Looking for your next favorite book? Try Murray Library’s free recommendation service at murraylibrary.org/werecommend/. Complete a quick online form, and a Murray librarian will create a customized reading list just for you.

Cottonwood theatre to open with ‘Joseph,’ students hope for full season

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

C

Cottonwood High will limit its participation to 50 actors and 50 musicians or less and follow COVID-19 safety precautions including wearing masks, such as this trumpet player, during its upcoming musical, “Joseph” which is planned to be performed in November. (Amber Tuckness/Cottonwood High)

ottonwood High theatre season will open with “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” this November in what students and its directors hope to be the first show of a full season.

Last year, their season ended with the March 13-14 run of William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” as the showing of “Mamma Mia” was canceled in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The kids want honesty; they want hope,” Cottonwood theatre director Adam Wilkins said. “I don’t want to be the teacher that is a pessimist. I’m going to be realistic and I’m sure going to try. My intention is that we’ll run a full season.”

That’s after Wilkins recollected that on March 12 when Murray School District was going online in response to the pandemic, he was asked by a student if Cottonwood High also would follow suit.

“I said, ‘of course not, we’re not going to shut down.’ And then it all fell apart the next day. I made a vow that day not to play the guessing game,” he said.

Cottonwood theatre students are planning to present “Joseph” on stage at 7 p.m., Nov. 19-21 and Nov. 23 to a limited capac-

ity in the auditorium.

With social distancing guidelines, Granite School District allows for 25% capacity in the auditorium that seats 2,000.

In addition, actors and musicians will be wearing masks. The cast as well as the musicians will be limited, with a maximum of 50 students in each.

Orchestra pit director Amber Tuckness said with the limited space in the pit, the student musician numbers may be even less.

“We can look at putting an ensemble in the corner of the stage, since we have a large enough stage to socially distance students. If we’re able to, we may be able to give more students the opportunity to participate, but that is something we’re still looking at and wanting to make sure that we’re following all the safety guidelines,” she said.

Wilkins agreed safety is a top concern.

“We have great administrative support at our school. The arts are valued and cherished, especially now. Our intention is to present the musical in a safe environment.

If we need to postpone, we will do it, but we don’t want to give up and we don’t want

to put anyone in danger,” Wilkins said. “If we can do November’s show, then we can solidify our other plans.”

Those may include the spring shows of “The Book of Will” and “Tuck Everlasting.” And while Cottonwood’s improvisation team also plans to perform throughout the year in a masked zone environment, the theatre students will not be holding what would have been its eighth annual Haunted Hallway fundraiser.

“I’m sad, we loved Haunted Hallway, but we want to make sure everyone is safe,” he said.

Wilkins said that while area schools are considering or have decided to move their musicals to late winter or spring, Cottonwood decided against that.

“If we need to move it, we’ll move it. But I don’t want to plan it later, need to move it, and then regret not having the time for students to perform it,” he said. “I can block it so we’re socially distanced and we’re entering in one area and exiting out another. We’re sticklers for wearing masks, cleaning, sanitizing and being socially distant. We don’t want school to cancel for our kids.”. l

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Murray City Journal

Sales tax numbers show large, sustained COVID-19 boost for most cities

By Justin Adams | justin.a@thecityjournals.com

T

his June, the City Journals featured an article about how the first sales tax reports released by the state showed early signs that COVID-19 had actually boosted sales tax collection in the month of March, relative to the same month the previous year.

Readers responded with valid feedback, pointing out that sales tax numbers for March included all the panic-buying of food and toilet paper that was going on at the time. They theorized that sales tax numbers would go down in the following months as the bulk-buying relaxed and as the County’s order to not allow dine-in eating was put in place.

Others pointed out that an increase in sales tax from year to year should be expected, as populations grow and new businesses open.

They suggested that the Journals compare 2020 sales tax numbers not just to 2019, but to previous years as well in order to provide more context to how COVID-19 is impacting our economy.

So with these two pieces of feedback, this reporter downloaded additional sales tax reports from the Utah Tax Commission for the months of March through June between the years of 2017 and 2020. What this reporter found is that COVID-19 has been a big boost for the coffers of most cities in the Salt Lake valley.

Twelve out of 15 cities collected more sales

tax in the four-month period than in the same period any of the previous three years. The only cities that didn’t were Salt Lake City, Murray and Sandy. (Murray and Sandy trailed previous years’ numbers March-May, but rebounded in June to beat previous June numbers.)

Many cities have experienced a sustained period of increased sales tax collection throughout all four months, suggesting that there’s been more than just a two-week period of panic buying that’s kept Utah dollars flowing.

Seven of the 15 cities have stayed ahead of previous years’ numbers for all four months.

Many of them by quite a bit. Riverton’s sales tax collection is up 36% relative to its 20172019 average. West Jordan is up 26% and Holladay 22%. Five others are in the 10-20% range (West Valley City, Taylorsville, South Salt Lake, Millcreek and Cottonwood Heights).

The question is: why the big increase?

Stocking up on toilet paper in March doesn’t explain it. And the growth is more than what one would expect from regular economic expansion. So why are Utah businesses as a whole collecting more sales tax during COVID-19?

One possible reason could be that Utahns who normally would be traveling out-of-state for vacation—spending their money at Disneyland or Las Vegas or in Europe—are staying

Taxable sales in Murray took a big hit between March and May, but rebounded in June.

home and spending that money here instead.

There also may have been an influx of college students who normally would have been living on campus, in places like Provo or Logan or other university towns out of state, but who returned to their parents’ houses in Salt Lake County, bringing their generous young adult spending habits with them.

Of course, all these numbers mean is

that these city governments should be in good shape. They’re not reflective of the state economy as a whole. According to UtahPolicy.com, sales tax collection is up statewide by 5.9% but the state’s revenue from income taxes is down 10.1%. So while most city governments seem to be in good shape, many individuals and small businesses within those cities may not have been as fortunate. l

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October 2020 | Page 21

CottonCrest mountain bike team members increase, competes in first races during pandemic

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

CottonCrest racers Sabrina Miner, Clara Stephens, Rachel Arlen, Josie Paul, and Hiley Campbell pose for a photo at Powder Mountain. (Photo courtesy of David Butler)

I

n the world of mountain biking, Utah offers some of the best rides in the country.

That’s according to coach Tony Stowe, who is coaching CottonCrest, a composite of athletes from Cottonwood High, Hillcrest High and AMES. “It’s amazing, the best in the country,” he said. “We have arid desert and deep forest. Utahns are outdoorsy so this is a sport that parents can share with their kids. It’s the coolest thing ever.”

While mountain biking is not a Utah High School Activities Association-sanctioned sport, the league is nine years old and Utah has

seen a 300% growth, registering 4,900 athletes to become the largest in the nation, Stowe said.

There are 130 teams across the state.

Stowe got his first mountain bike at age 13 and was influenced in the sport from an uncle.

“Mountain biking has a cool community that has a positive influence with kids. It’s a healthy sport and a way for families to recreate since it’s very accessible here,” he said.

“Parents wish they had this in high school.

It’s very different than traditional sports, and it’s a very supportive community.”

Stowe became involved with CottonCrest five years ago when his then Hillcrest

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by J Liddell, who had a daughter riding from Cottonwood High.

“Hillcrest only had three athletes then,” he said. “Now, we have 31, with 40% of the team being girls.”

Stowe’s daughter, Kenna, now is riding on the team and he transitioned from being supportive parent to coach.

“I’d really like to see our girls become 50% of the team. I’ve seen what it has done for my daughter from being timid to gaining courage, learning responsibility and having a competitive edge,” Stowe said.

The team also includes an AMES boy, who is amongst the fastest on the team, and five Cottonwood High cyclists, including one of the fastest JV A girls in the region. Each school has a student captain and experienced riders help teach new riders how to prepare for race day.

As the team was gearing up for its first race Aug. 29 at Powder Mountain, Stowe said the preseason training was a bit different than in years past in response to COVID-19 with safety precautions including symptom checks, temperature checks, face coverings, sanitization and more.

“Typically, we’ll start up in April and go right through October, but not this year. We waited until June for our official practices and jumped in with three times per week,” he said, saying they follow UHSAA with their practice schedule.

The team’s summer workouts included skills, drills and endurance rides, such as a two-hour 2,400-foot vertical ride that would amount to 16 miles for some of the team’s fastest riders or 8 miles for others. This helped to prepare riders for the 5.5- to 21-mile race, depending on their race level, Stowe said.

“With our races, typically there can be 1,000 to 1,200 athletes and thousands of spectators, but now it will be very different at the venue. We may just be able to arrive to warm up, check the bike, race and leave 15 to 20 minutes after the race,” he said. “Our girls are very supportive of each other, cheering each other on and

wanting everyone to have a good race. Our boys are competitive, wanting to beat each other.”

At Powder Mountain, Anna Hinks finished eighth, Sophia Arlen finished 27th, and Skye Robinson finished 63rd in the beginner girls category. In freshmen races, Camden Lampshire finished 30th for the boys B and Clara Stephens finished 40th for the girls ahead of teammate Sabrina Miner. In JV boys A, Connor McMillan placed 12th, Matt Hinks finished 17th, and Logan Messenger snagged 21st place. Rachel Arlen took 29th in the girls JV A race. In JV boys B, Justice Robinson took sixth, Logan Rolfson was 22nd and Zack Augade placed 31st. In girls JV B, Hiley Campbell was 16th , Josie Paul placed 24th and Emily Villanueva finished 53rd. In the JV C race, Elliot Meyer was third, Braxton Little finished sixth, Porter Bach was 12th, Kolby Butler was 27th, Sam Fisher grabbed 30th and Parker Mealey finished the ride in 37th place.

The team also raced Sept. 12 in Price, taking sixth place overall in division 2, which is the smaller team division.

Individually, beginner girls Anna Hinks finished 22nd, Sophia Arlen, 43rd and Skye Robinson, 60th. Freshman boys B had a 19thplace showing from Jacob Arens and 37th from Camden Lampshire. Freshman girls were led by Keian Flake, who finished 27th, two places later was Clara Stephens and Sabrina Miner was 46th. JV Boys A finishes include Connor McMillan, eighth; Matt Hinks, 11th; Jackson Fairbourn, 23rd; Justice Robinson, 24th; and Elliot Meyer, 25th. Rachel Arlen finished 28th in JV A girls. In JV B boys, Logan Rolfson finished 12th; Porter Bach, 19th; Braxton Little, 20th; and Zack Augade, 27th. In JV B girls, Hiley Campbell placed 17th; Josie Paul, 21st; Kenna Stowe, 32nd; Emily Villanueva, 45th; and Georgia Barrus, 46th. In the JV C race, Kolby Butler was 11th; Sam Fisher, 30th; and Parker Mealey, 40th.

The CottonCrest team also is scheduled Sept. 26 at Vernal before competing Oct. 10 for the regional title. The state race is set for Oct. 23-24 in St. George. l

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Page 22 | October 2020

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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

We are well into the first term of the 2020-2021 school year. The runway leading up to the start of the school year was eventful and challenging for all but we have been encouraged by everyone’s efforts. Whether participating inperson or online, we are delighted to have our students and educators back in our schools again; particularly after such a challenging spring and summer. We could not be more excited to see our students’ smiling faces!

As we have been out visiting classrooms, it feels “right” to have teachers and students together. Our classrooms look a little different than normal as we have changed our routines, adjusted to new rules, are wearing masks, and are keeping our distance from each other. Our students, faculty, and staff have done an amazing job adjusting to the situation and displayed resilience, professionalism, compassion, and joy.

Thank you to our educators who engaged in professional growth over the summer to prepare for our current school year. Many hours were spent participating in online training and webinars, reading educational blogs, researching best practices for various modalities of instruction, swapping ideas with other teachers, and so much more. They are devoted to giving our students their best, and we are confident that they are in good hands.

We want to remind and thank our parents and community for the vital role you play in supporting and partnering with our schools. Thank you for your patience and support. With creative thinking and a strong partnership among teachers and families, children will not only continue to build their knowledge and skills but also increase confidence and a love for learning. We encourage you to be actively involved in the education of our students as we all rise to this most unusual occasion to provide those things that are best for them.

2020-21 MCSD Calendar Highlights Oct. 2, 2020 Teacher Comp/Non-Contract Day – No School for Elementary or Secondary Students Oct. 15-16, 2020 Fall Break Oct. 21, 2020 Last Day of First Term – Half Day of School Oct. 22-23, 2020 No School – Teacher Workdays Nov. 20, 2020 Teacher Development – Half Day of School Nov. 25-27, 2020 Thanksgiving Holiday Break – No School Dec. 21, 2020 Winter Break Starts (School Resumes Jan. 4) The 2020-21 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

OCTOBER 2020

MEF Golf Tournament Successful

Murray Education Foundation’s 22nd Annual Golf Tournament was a big win for all as the organization raised thousands of dollars for Murray City School District teachers and students. Over the years, the outing has raised more than $321,000. This has been used to fund 1092 grants awarded to teachers with innovative projects they undertake that impact thousands of students.

In terms of sponsorship participation, one of our Zions Bank teams (from the home mortgage department) took the title. But we want to thank all our volunteers, participants, and sponsors for making the event both fun and productive for our Murray teachers and students.

Go here to see a list of all our sponsors and top golfers: murrayschools.org/standing-tall-mef-golf-tournamenta-win-for-all

District Streamlining Parent Communications with ParentSquare

How MCSD Handles Cyberbullying

This year, MCSD has fully adopted ParentSquare as its primary parent (or guardian) communication tool. With this smartphone and desktop application, families will receive district, school, and classroom communication via email, text, or in-app viewing (from phone or desktop computer).

Contact information for ParentSquare is synced with information from Aspire – our student database. So please ensure your Aspire email address and phone number are current. This is important as we rely on accurate phone numbers and email addresses to communicate day-today messages but also in an emergency.

We also invite parents to follow the District and school social media pages as they are often a valuable tool in keeping our families informed about interesting and important information. Contact your school or the District office at (801) 264-7400 or info@murrayschools.org if you have questions or need help.

Cyberbullying is NEVER acceptable, in ANY context!

Did you know Murray City School District takes this issue seriously and has implemented several things to prevent it. These include: • Carefully reviewing all district learning systems and software to ensure they have adequate security that prevents or addresses cyberbullying.

• Using enhanced filtering software on our network (iBoss) to help us spot any cyberbully activity.

• Provide teachers and students with digital citizenship training, and awarding “digital badges” to students who complete that training.

• “Bricking” (virtual disabling) of student Chromebooks when an incident is identified until it can be resolved with parents or guardians directly.

But digital citizenship goes beyond the classroom.

We invite our entire community of families to commit to working together to prevent cyberbullying activity. Please contact your school’s administrator if you are aware or suspect an issue or have a question.

October 2020 | Page 23

Utah Virtual Academy readies for increased enrollment

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Sophomore Madeline Kahl logs on to her classes online at Utah Virtual Academy, where she has been a student for nine years, and where about 1,000 more students joined the charter school this fall. (Photo courtesy of Sara Kahl)

M

ore than 1,500 K-12 students took ad- for the online charter school in August. vantage of the opportunity to enroll at “It was parents demanding enrollment Utah Virtual Academy once the Utah legisla- that drove us to reach out to increase our ture authorized an increased enrollment cap cap,” said UTVA Head of School Meghan

Merideth. “By the second week of July, we had students on the waiting list and saw our numbers exponentially increase. We were watching the trends come in daily grow from 100 to 400 to 500. In this pandemic, students and parents want a proven online model.”

As calls and emails asking to add students to the waitlist continued, Merideth said the school’s board chair contacted the state charter board and the state board of education in mid-August and asked for the school to be able to expand to handle the demand.

Ultimately, UTVA was granted a 1,500-student increase to an enrollment cap of 3,550 students. Enrollment in late August was 3,050.

“Seventy percent of our demand has been K-5, specifically K-2. A lot of families are wanting our online learning option as we’ve been perfecting the model for a decade, not flipping the model to online overnight. It’s really quite impressive what the school district teachers were able to do (last spring during the soft closure), but we have experience in our lessons and offer full programs with live instruction online,” she said.

The school also offers concurrent college courses through partnerships with Snow College, Dixie State University and Salt Lake Community College, career and technical ed-

ucation, some advanced placement courses, counseling and even clubs.

The added enrollment is supported through HB6012 – Public Education Funding and Enrollment, which gives the Utah State Board of Education use of emergency funding and state education money to allocate in addition to what already has been appropriated for the enrollment boost.

“The money follows the student,” Merideth said. “There’s about $8 million that will support our students and those with Utah Connections Academy, which also got an increased enrollment.”

She said that as of late August additional teachers were being hired and trained.

“We’ve had a lot of quality teachers.

Some went into early retirement or stepped away from schools because of COVID-19.

It’s been a wild ride since July. Once we started the process of asking for an increased enrollment, the demand seems to have just jumped overnight,” Merideth said.

Her own fourth-grade daughter is enrolled in the school, where Merideth started working nine years ago as a counselor. She has been head of school the past four.

“It’s pretty exciting what’s going on,” Merideth said. “This is the way education is going to be going.”l

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Murray City Journal

Local school districts to provide free breakfast, lunch this fall

By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

Children across the Salt Lake Valley can receive free meals this fall, thanks to a USDA meal waiver. (Photo courtesy of Jordan School District)

T

he American Academy of Innovation charter school in South Jordan is joining local school districts in providing free breakfast and lunch to all enrolled students, thanks to a temporary meal waiver granted by the USDA. The USDA free meal waiver will continue to the end of December 2020 or until all funds are gone, whichever comes first. There’s no need to apply for the benefit; all students are automatically eligible. However, with most locations, children must be present to receive meals, so check with your individual school.

The new breakfast program at AAI will be offered before the bell and lunch will be served as scheduled during the school day.

Students enrolled in AAI’s online and independent study learning programs may pick up meals at the front office at designated times.

“At AAI, we strive to offer fresh housemade meals to our students,” food service director and chef David Kimball said. “We are grateful to do what we can to ease the financial burden for all of our families, particularly any who are facing difficult times.”

At nearby Jordan School District, officials are encouraging parents to continue applying for free and reduced meal eligibility so that they won’t experience a lapse in benefits because of the potential expiration of this waiver.

All Jordan District schools will serve free meals for face-to-face students in the school

cafeteria. Online and at-home learners may pick up meals at specific times and locations designated by each school.

In addition, free curbside lunch and breakfast for the next morning will be available for all children 18 years old and under at Elk Ridge Middle, Joel P. Jensen Middle and South Hills Middle. Meal service at these three locations will be from 10 to 11 a.m. weekdays.

At Canyons School District, Nutrition Services Director Sebasthian Varas said this was welcome news for their communities.

“We have families who may not qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, but have been financially hurt by the pandemic,” he said.

“This will hopefully bring them some peace of mind and take at least one worry off their shoulders.”

Four schools—Butler Middle, Draper Park Middle, Jordan High and Midvale Middle—will make grab-and-go sack lunches and breakfasts available to remote learners and non-Canyons students. Parents or guardians may pick up these meals without having their children present, however, students are encouraged to preorder if they are enrolled online or at-home. Members of the community, who do not have students enrolled at those schools, do not need to preorder.

Granite School District Child Nutrition

Director Dana Adams also welcomes the free meal service.

“There will be some challenges to navigate, but it’s such good news for our students and families,” Adams said.

Because of staffing limitations and safety measures at all schools, meals will be available only to students (both in-person and distance-learners) who are enrolled in Granite schools. Distance-learners need to arrange meal pick-up times with their individual schools.

Murray School District students, both in-person and online learners, as well as children under the age of 18, can get their free weekday meals at their local schools or at these local apartment complexes: Hunter Woods, 11-11:20 a.m.; Frontgate bus stop, 11:30-11:50 a.m., and Fireclay, noon to 12:20 p.m.

For more information about Murray District’s food services, see https://www.murrayschools.org/nutrition-services/ Salt Lake City’s grab-and-go meal service is designated at certain locations through Oct. 30, excluding holidays and weekends.

For more information and a list of schools to get meals, see https://www.slcschools.org/departments/business-administration/child-nutrition/drive-thru-meals/l

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Page 26 | October 2020

Murray City Journal

K. Wayne Cushing, CPa SLCo TreaSurer

Plasma donors are heroes.

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Located at 4330 South Redwood Road, Taylorsville, UT 84123

October 2020 | Page 27

Want to keep Utah’s museums open? Visit or donate

By Mariden Williams | m.williams@mycityjournals.com

A

ccording to a July survey by the American Alliance of Museums, some 16% of museums across the United States are in danger of closing their doors due to the financial strain of the pandemic. Even those that aren’t in immediate danger of closing are still under immense financial pressure.

Utah’s museums are, sadly, no exception.

The Hogle Zoo, the Living Planet Aquarium, the Tracy Aviary, Utah’s numerous dinosaur museums—all of them are under a lot of strain, and if they’re to stay open, need the public’s support.

While most museums do have endowments and financial reserves to fall back on, they’re not big enough to keep them going for very long, and closures earlier in the year have already eaten up almost all of that cushion.

Funding is particularly important, and tight, in facilities with live animals. Places like the Natural History Museum of Utah have the option of closing up completely for a while: the dinosaur bones won’t get any deader if no employees come in for weeks at a time. But zoos don’t have that option. The animals need to be fed and cared for whether visitors are coming in or not, and that makes funding disappear even faster.

The Loveland Living Planet Aquarium, the Tracy Aviary, and the Hogle Zoo all closed for around 50 days from mid-March to mid-May—the high season for most zoos— and all three are still reeling from the impact.

“The Hogle Zoo has taken a major hit, there’s no doubt. We were closed for 50 days during a time of year that is critical to the fi-

nancial health of the zoo. Spring is when we fill our coffers to help keep us afloat during the fall and winter when attendance declines,” said Erica Hansen, the Hogle Zoo’s public relations manager.

A lot more was lost than just ticket revenue. Spring is also a key time for many zoos’ fundraising events, most of which had to be canceled or moved online.

“We had to cancel our conservation fundraising garden party, and our education fundraiser, which raises money for camp scholarships and free nature programs,” said Patricia Dark, the Tracy Aviary’s marketing director. “Additionally, we had dozens of weddings booked that had to be canceled. All in all we lost about $500,000.”

Keeping zoos open is important, and not just because they’re fun to visit. Zoos are crucial for wildlife conservation, both locally and abroad, and they sponsor a lot of habitat protection and breeding programs for endangered animals. The Living Planet Aquarium farms coral and uses it to bolster struggling and dying coral reefs, which are vital to marine life. The Tracy Aviary hosts and breeds several species that are extinct in the wild, such as the Guam kingfisher. Zoos are the only chance we have at introducing such species back into their native ecosystems.

“We engage over 100 community science volunteers each year in local and statewide projects that help conserve birds and their habitats. Our work helps many species—from rosy-finches, owls, and hummingbirds in Utah to macaws, pelicans, and plovers in Central America,” said Dark.

The Living Planet Aquarium’s timed ticketing system ensures that the building never gets too crowded for social distancing. (Loveland Living Planet Aquarium)

To keep doing the important work, zoos need every bit of money they can get, according to Loveland Living Planet Aquarium CEO Brent Andersen. “It costs over $2 million a year just to care for all of the animals— that includes food, veterinary care, staffing, habitat maintenance, etc. The closure happening right before spring break, our busiest two months of the year, has had a tremendous negative impact on funding,” Andersen said.

“The reopening has relieved some of that pressure,” but not all of it.

To make things even harder, all three zoos are currently operating at limited capacity—in the aquarium’s case, this is by design, as they have been forced to limit ticket sales in order to enforce social distancing requirements in their mostly-indoor buildings.

“We’ve created a timed ticketing system. This online reservation system allows guests to reserve a specific day and time for their visit. This system ensures that there is always enough room for guests to make physical distancing possible,” Andersen said.

It’s a system that helps keep everyone safe, but it also means they’re seeing 40% less attendance than they have in prior years, which makes things hard. “Fewer guests means less revenue, while the cost of caring for the animals and running the facility remains.”

At the mostly outdoor Hogle Zoo and Tracy Aviary, tickets are being sold as normal, but visitors still seem to be hesitant to return in the numbers they used to. According to Dark, the Tracy Aviary is only seeing 40% of its usual amount of visitors. The story at the Hogle Zoo is similar, even though staff are doing everything they can to make sure that visiting the zoo is as safe as possible.

“We were among the first three zoos in In addition to helping breed critically endangered birds from all over the world, the Tracy Aviary works closely the country to reopen and our team worked with over a hundred volunteers across the state to protect the habitats of Utah’s native birds, including barn tirelessly to make that happen,” Hansen said owls like this one. (Tracy Aviary) of Hogle Zoo. “We have hours for high-risk

Page 28 | October 2020

and elderly on Monday mornings, 8 to 10 a.m. Masks are required indoors and strongly encouraged outside, we have numerous hand sanitizer stations throughout zoo grounds, distance markers and lots of reminders for guests to take caution. We’ve had a few vocal parties on the great mask debate of 2020, but otherwise, most guests seem to be enjoying their time and are happy to have a safe place to stretch their legs.”

With this decrease in visitor revenue, there’s a fair amount of worry as to what will happen should a winter resurgence of the virus trigger a second wave of closures. Will the museums be able to survive it?

“Boy, we sure hope so,” Hansen said.

“That could be tough for us, and we’re currently counting on revenue and attendance during our popular BooLights and ZooLights events to help us out.” At BooLights and ZooLights, which occur around Halloween and Christmas respectively, the Hogle Zoo grounds are bedecked in hundreds of colorful holiday-themed lights. Both events are good family fun, and have been well attended in the past. Unfortunately, they also take place in fall and winter, which is when epidemiologists say a resurgence of the virus is likely.

Government aid is also a possibility.

“Depending on the length of any closure, we would be seeking federal and local funding like those that were allocated through Congress in April,” Andersen said of the aquarium. This would also be an option for Utah’s other zoos.

Representatives from all the state’s museums and zoos said the public can help them to stay open. People can make a difference, through visiting them and simply donating.

“We need visitors now more than ever.

Or we at least need your support. There are many ways to donate,” Hansen said.

Many museums, including the Hogle

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Zoo, are currently holding silent auctions, with prize packages donated by community businesses. Some even open after regular hours on fundraiser nights: the aviary is holding $30 socially-distanced outdoor movie nights throughout September, which gives people an opportunity to explore when the sun is less intense and nocturnal birds are active. Buying annual memberships to your favorite museums functions as a donation as well as a pass to visit them often. And, of course, there’s always the tried-and-true

simple cash donation, which can be made through most any museum’s main website.

Donations really do make a difference for museums. It sure made a difference for the Natural History Museum of Utah, whose curators were, earlier this summer, worried whether it could survive the year. But after their Fund the Future drive in June yielded nearly triple their original goal, their future is secured. With the public’s help, that same security can be given to other favorite museums. l

Before the pandemic, the aviary’s bird shows were packed. Now, most benches remain intentionally empty to maintain social distance, and masks are required to enter the grounds. (Tracy Aviary)

MurrayJournal .com

October 2020 | Page 29

More trails are coming to Salt Lake County

Aimee Winder Newton Salt Lake County Council | District 3

This year as the leaves changed I was reminded again how lucky we are to live in Utah where we get to experience four seasons in all their glory. Recently I had an opportunity to visit a beautiful area of our County--Butterfield Canyon--for a #BiketheButter Mountain Bike Rally.

With a gentle nudge from our mountain biking friends, we have an opportunity to take some of our Salt Lake County open space and make it more accessible. We have the chance to build a multiuse trail system in the southwest corner of the Salt Lake Valley and tie together Butterfield, Yellow Fork, and Rose Canyons. This exciting opportunity has been made possible with a partnership between Salt Lake County, the Bureau of Land Management, Rio Tinto, private property owners, and some dedicated

and passionate residents.

These residents have taken their passion for mountain biking and pulled the community together to raise money and speed up the timeline for a desired trail system.

This group recently raised $200,000 as a donation to begin this trail planning process.

Mountain biking is one of the fastest growing high school sports in Utah and the west side of the valley has over a thousand students participating. Developing this trail system makes these recreational opportunities available right in their backyard and will expand participation and access. The proposed trail system will link over 70 miles of trail and will provide recreational opportunities for hikers and equestrians, in addition to mountain bikers.

It will be another jewel in the open space crown of Salt Lake County.

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Page 30 | October 2020

Every few years Salt Lake County conducts a countywide needs assessment and the results from both the 2012 and 2017 surveys told us that the number one priority of residents was open space and trails. This year especially, as we all found ourselves spending a little more time closer to home we also saw a marked increase in people using our parks and trails.

We are so grateful for the foresight of visionary leaders who have been setting this

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land aside, maintaining it, and making sure that everyone in the county has access.

Having a robust trail system throughout the Salt Lake Valley benefits everyone.

More open space will expand access and raise the quality of life for all of us. I am grateful for the passionate residents and thoughtful leaders who are willing to look forward not just for the next five years but for the next 50 years.

Discovery Gateway Children's Museum Re-Opening Discovery Gateway Children's Museum has re-opened and it's the perfect place to get your children comfortable wearing a mask, give them educational experiences, and learn how to play safe.

our 1 year anniversary!

As some schools re-open with in person classes, your child will need to wear a mask. Many other activities that you and your child might need or want to do this fall will also most likely require masks. You can get your children comfortable wearing a mask in a fun and safe environment by bringing them to Discovery Gateway.

As many schools will also be online or partially online, parents are concerned about their children’s access to educational opportunities. Taking your child to a fun and creative environment, where they can continue to learn, is a great way to make sure they are staying ahead of the curve.

This is also a great way to help your child learn and practice social distancing. Children learn how to wait their turn, to only touch what is clean, and to stay 6 feet from other children and adults not in their family group.

Safety is a top priority for everyone as we venture out more and more. Discovery Gateway has put into place many Safe Play procedures to keep employees and guests safe. They only allow in a limited number of guests during each time block, and they have sectioned the Museum into Zones, where only one to two family groups are allowed in at a time, they give each family group their own set of clean props which are then sanitized after each use. The Museum is also continuously sanitized throughout the day.

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Murray City Journal

Life

Laughter AND

by

PERI KINDER

Witch, Please

It’s been a decade since COVID-19 reached our shores, ushering in 45 years of hand sanitizer, remote learning and face mask protesters sporting apostrophe-addled signs like “Your an idiot” and “Parent’s against masks”.

But now it’s October. Halloween is at risk.

S*** just got real.

Nothing could be scarier than 2020, with its earthquakes and hurricane-force winds and rising COVID infection rates and elections, but Halloween isn’t just about fear. Halloween is the one day a year conservative moms can buy push-up bras and dress like lusty dog catchers, guilt free. It’s the day Snickers for breakfast and Reese’s for lunch are appropriate meals. It’s the day politically-inappropriate celebrities get tagged on social media.

But COVID changed everything. Los Angeles prohibited trick-or-treating along with haunted house venues, Halloween carnivals and other spooky activities. After a swift and furious backlash from parents who need to give their kids ONE thing to look forward to this year, the city backed down and “recommended” common sense. Like that’s a thing.

Even then, it’s gonna take a lot to scare our children anymore in 2020. They spent months locked in the house, learning fractions online and wearing face masks to the grocery store. Their stress levels are sky-high and adrenal fatigue has caused weepy breakdowns and heartbreaking acceptance.

On the bright side, COVID-19 ushered in a whole new series of costumes for the holiday, including coronavirus outfits, teachers in hazmat suits and the very funny Elsa in a plastic bubble.

I think I’ll dress up as a mail-in ballot since that seems to be the most terrifying thing in the country today. (Sidenote: Vote on Nov. 3. Vote by mail, vote in person, drop your vote off in a ballot box. I don’t

care how you vote. Crawl through a lake of spiders, a graveyard of zombies - just vote!)

The CDC issued COVID-19 risk categories, pertaining to Halloween activities. The lowest risk is a virtual festival where celebrations are held on Zoom because we just can’t get enough of Zoom, can we? (Sidenote: Has anyone investigated the connection between the coronavirus and Zoom?

Hmm??)

Moderate risk includes small gatherings where individuals stay apart from each other and wear those Halloween masks from the ‘70s because there is no way germs (or breath) will get through that thick plastic.

Higher risk activities will be your social distanced haunted houses where vampires and witches stand six feet away and snarl the horrible things they’d do if they could just get a little closer. That horrifying thing breathing down your back is the lo-

cal Karen, screeching into her cellphone and looking for a manager.

Posing the highest risk are large, in-person, nomask gatherings made popular in places like Utah and Washington Counties. (Sidenote: Idiots.)

People have tried to ruin Halloween for centuries. The latest attempt was the introduction of Trunk-or-Treat, which should be banned in all 50 states for its mediocre contribution to the holiday, so I don’t think COVID will stop Halloween enthusiasts. Some people find Halloween offensive, with its glittery bats and baby werewolves. But everything is offensive this year. If something didn’t offend someone in 2020, did it really happen?

I guess we’ll see if people party safely this Halloween when COVID results start rolling in two weeks later. I’ll stand outside your hospital room with signs like, “I wish youd listened” and “Your an imbecile”.l

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Carpet, tile, hardwood, laminate, ceramic tile, luxury vinyl & window coverings.

FREE Estimate 801-501-9210 12896 S Pony Express #100, Draper

FIRST PREMIER PAINTING

PREMIER QUALITY PAINTING OUR CLIENTS COME FIRST Interior/Exterior/Cabinets/Stains Mention ad for Discount FREE Proposal

801-413-6938

PAINTING

ROOFING

FULL SERVICE PAINTING Interior/Exterior Residential/Commercial Over 20 Years Experience LICENSED AND INSURED For Immediate Service Call

801-865-4049 MurrayJournal .com

HEATING & AIR&CONDITIONING Water Softener Air Purification

NobleOne Professional Painting High efficiency furnace & A/C units

www.royalproclean.com

$20 OFF FIRST CLEANING!

HVAC

CTR HEATING & AIR

801-272-7000

All types of roofs

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

20 years experience Financing available FREE diagnostic with repair Call for seasonal specials:

Apex Clean Air

Installations & Repairs Free In Home AIR/WATER QUALITY TEST

(801) 999-4220

Call: 801-797-2956 www.ShopCulliganSLC.com

CONCRETE

HOME IMPROVEMENT

CONCRETE CHAMPS

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

Katie Sheen Painter

Call today for a free in home estimate.

801-618-4649 VEHICLES WANTED

We’ll buy your running & non-running, wrecked or broken car, truck or van.

Stamp Color | Driveways | Sidewalks Foundation | Retaining Walls | Patios

Excellent Paint Jobs - Affordable Prices Interior/Exterior . Residential/Commercial

Free Estimate - Call Yama 801-835-0051

LICENSED AND INSURED

(801) 506-6098

FREE ESTIMATES! NO JOB TOO SMALL!

A Local Utah Company

DECKS & HANDRAILS

Utahs Best Decks Building Utah’s BEST Decks for over 25 years with quality & integrity.

BestDecksInUtah.com Call John today for a FREE estimate.

801-205-5999

PLUMBING/HVAC

24Hr Rooter Connectionz Drain, Sewer, Plumbing, Heating & Air Services. $49 OFF Any Service!

Call Today

801-758-2095 UtahsPlumber.com

Call Katie 385.628.7514 TREE SERVICES

INTERMOUNTAIN TREE EXPERTS

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

801-244-3542 FREE ESTIMATES

YARD SERVICES

Affordable Yard Care / Tree Trimming & Removal Flower Beds, Hedges, Railroad Ties, Mulching, Sod, Mowing, Concrete Senior Discounts

Call Dan:

801-518-7365

CarSoldForCash.com

FLAT ROOF SPECIALISTS

OLYMPUS ROOFING

801.887.7663 SERVING WASATCH FRONT SINCE 1973

SIDING

Capitol Exteriors

Siding – Soffit – Fascia – Raingutters

Call NOW For SPECIALS (801) 253-2566

October 2020 | Page 31

Retirement Planning Seminar Š 2020 Wealth Management CPAs

Given the current political & economic environment, many Murray residents are worried about their future.

Two

FREE consultations & a personalized retirement plan with registration ($1,000 Value)

10 Reasons You Should Attend This FREE Seminar 1.

Learn how to protect your estate from longterm care expenses.

6.

Learn how to avoid being taxed on your social security benefits.

2.

Lessen the chance that you outlive your retirement income due to taxes or inflation.

7.

Discover the pitfalls of probate and the steps you can take to avoid it.

3.

Learn how to avoid being forced to sell your assets or surrender your money to Medicaid.

8.

Learn why a living trust may be more effective than a regular will and why you may need one.

4.

Learn how to receive long-term care benefits while remaining in your own home.

9.

Learn when you should not put your children on your bank accounts and property titles.

5.

Learn how to decrease the tax on your IRA or 401(k) for a more comfortable retirement.

10. Learn about best practices to investing and safe alternatives to the stock market.

Attend Oct.

14th

Robert J. Beck CPA

Monica Sonnier CFA

Elliot P. Smith JD, CPA

Oct.

or

15th

6:00 - 7:30 PM

6:00 - 7:30 PM

(Wed.)

(Thurs.)

9750 S 300 W Sandy, UT 84070

Room #213

FREE to the public | Seating is limited | Social distancing will be observed

Register Today! (801) CPA-HELP WealthCPAs.com (801) 272-4357 Investment Advisory Representative and advisory services offered through TownSquare Capital, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor 5314 River Run Drive, Provo, UT 84604. All named entities are unaffiliated.