Riverton Journal | January 2024

January 2024 | Vol. 34 Iss. 1

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By Tom Haraldsen | t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com

C

raig Giles has been sworn in as the new city manager for Riverton. He left his position as city manager for Smithfield to take the post. His first day on the job was Sept. 25, 2023.

“It just seemed like a really good time in my life to make a career change,” he said. “I loved Smithfield, but I’ve always wanted to be back along the Wasatch Front. After 8 ½ years, the timing was perfect to move on.”

He’s worked in city government for 16 years, and in Smithfield helped the city with its rapid residential and commercial growth. He has also worked for Kaysville and South Salt Lake city governments.

Riverton Mayor Trent Staggs said Giles has “vast leadership experience, having previously served as the public works director. Maintaining project schedules and expectations for multiple million-dollar projects were executive functions he excelled at.”

Giles earned a bachelor’s degree from Utah State University and completed graduate school at Brigham Young University. He praised the city staff at Riverton, saying “I’m quite excited. They’ve been great to work with and they’re very dedicated to serving the city.”

Riverton’s continued growth presents challenges he’s looking forward to addressing, including infrastructure, transportation, keeping up with residents’ demands and controlling finances.

“We have to constantly look out for our residents, controlling costs as best we can even as prices go up on things every year,” he said. “Fiscal responsibility is very important and something I know all of us at Riverton are working hard to maintain.”

New construction on the Bangerter Highway interchange at 13400 South is a big priority for the city. The Utah Department of Transportation is workContinued page 11

page 4

AI questions answered by teachers

Craig Giles is the new city manager for Riverton. (Photo courtesy of Craig Giles)

Riverton 2023

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January 2024 | Page 3

Real answers about artificial intelligence in the classroom

By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com Editor’s note: this is part of a series of articles about artificial intelligence in schools.

School, said SchoolAI is a closed system, unlike popular public AI interfaces.

“Since the SchoolAI is trained on education content, it's a lot cleaner and easier than an alternative artificial intelligence,” he said.

“So, when I create a rubric using SchoolAI, and a rubric using Chat GPT, I get really, really different responses from both of them, because SchoolAI is actually made to help us meet our goals with students.”

W

hile many express concerns about how AI will affect their job or their way of life, Jordan School District employees are already using AI to improve their jobs and the way they teach.

During their Nov. 28 meeting, members of the Jordan School District Board of Education approved a five year contract with SchoolAI, an artificial intelligence platform created specifically for schools and developed with input from Jordan District teachers who piloted it.

“AI is here,” board member Darrell Robinson said. “No matter what, it's going to be our reality, so we felt that we needed to take control of it and figure out how to use it instead of banning it and fearing it.”

Jordan School District is leading out among other districts with their early adoption of AI tools, while some other districts have banned AI, Robinson said. Jordan District representatives have been asked to share their approach to AI at a school board convention this month.

Those educators who have been using AI tools for several months are excited to share the benefits of—and to address common concerns about—AI. Concern: AI is not safe Answer: Closed AI systems and cautious teachers keep students safe Amber Saffen, an engineering and robotics teacher at Jordan Academy for Technology and Careers, said caution, not fear, is a reasonable response to AI. “I think there's a lot of value in approaching any new tool with caution,” she said. “I would alleviate people’s fears by saying schools are aware. Just like we protect stu-

Journals T H E

Valley High School teacher Graham Bany demonstrates the AI he uses in his classroom to Congressman Burgess Owens. (Photo courtesy of Darrell Robinson.)

dents from certain websites but encourage the use of others, we're protecting students from certain AIs. There are plenty of teachers and administrators who are excited about AI, who see the value but understand the risks, and are working so hard so that it is being implemented and that we’re teaching AI literacy, as well.”

Jordan School District is committed to using AI and other technologies ethically and to providing guidance and support within the framework of being: Conscientious, Collaborative, Critical and Creative, as described on their website.

The SchoolAI tool, which is being implemented district-wide, provides safeguards,

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“It's a technology that we're just starting to use on a broad scale, and we'll continue to watch to make sure that we're getting all of the benefit and that we're mitigating and eliminating the risks that are associated with any new program,” Jordan School District Superintendent Dr. Anthony Godfrey said. “SchoolAI put a fence around artificial intelligence so that our information doesn't get out and we only let in the information that we want. So we have safeguards in place. We have a lot of training in place, and I'm really optimistic about the way SchoolAI is going to be used.”

Graham Bany, a teacher at Valley High

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Concern: AI will replace teachers Answer: AI will make better teachers “The teacher is not getting replaced by AI,” Kevin Morrill of SchoolAI explained.

“They're just leveraging AI to be a better teacher, to be more prepared when they go in front of the class. They use our platform to do a lot of the heavy lifting. They get about 80% down the road using the platform on any given thing and then they can put on their creative hats, their experience, and then bake that into it. So we're seeing more prepared lessons, more prepared courses and units. We actually think that AI has the potential to increase humanity in the classroom by giving teachers more time to connect more deeply with students.”

West Jordan Middle School teacher Andrew Holmes said using AI tools to accelerate productivity and reduce time spent on lesson planning allows him to have more time to be a teacher and interact with his students.

“I don’t think this is going to replace me—this is helping the overworked teacher do what they want to do,” he said.

Many teachers save time by using AI tools for monotonous, time-consuming or complex tasks.

“I regularly use the AI to help me draft an email to respond if I have a very upset parent,” District Math Consultant Amy Kinder said. “I still want to show parents that I care,

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but it takes so long to craft it, because you know someone's going to pick it apart. AI helps me draft great emails really fast.”

She said AI only generates the first draft.

“I look at it and re-edit it until it feels like a quality educator response with my flair on it—it's never just a copy/paste or anything like that,” Kinder said.

AI is sometimes better than humans at responding appropriately and consistently to students’ behavior, too, Bany said.

“Everyone's so scared of AI and language models and machine learning, but they also forget that the safeguards that are required to be put in place are actually helping with the ways the kids are getting direct oneto-one feedback from the machine that's more consistent than a human,” he said. Unlike a human, SchoolAI’s feedback to students is always positive and it redirects them when they get off-topic or behave inappropriately, he said.

One of his high school students typed a negative comment about another student and the chatbot’s response impressed Bany.

“It said, ‘Hey, you probably should consider not calling someone by rude names, but you should also still be sure to explain the things that they're doing that are making you want to call them that word,’ so even the feedback that it gives when kids are speaking in ways that they shouldn't, it still tries to redirect them positively,” he said.

Concern: Using AI is cheating Answer: It can be, so teachers are adapting Within SchoolAI, teachers have control and can set parameters for what the chatbot can and can’t do for students. It cannot be tricked into writing a student’s essay but will act more as a writing coach.

However, students have access to AI tools without these kinds of constraints outside of school. They can find AI tools on the internet to help them study or organize their thoughts, but they can also find answers to cheat on their homework.

“I think the tech has caused many pains for many math teachers,” Kinder said. “Because you can take pictures of math problems or you can Google any math problem and it will tell the answer, so it's like they're taking away the joy of solving it. So I think many of them don't see it as a tool just yet.”

There are AI detectors teachers can use to identify AI generated content, which Saffen said aren’t even always necessary, because she can often tell when a student tries to pass off AI writing as their own.

“ChatGPT does have a very particular voice to it,” she said.

However, sometimes Saffen lets her students use AI-generated content, such as to write a paper explaining their engineering project.

“I was not grading them on their ability to present the idea in writing,” Saffen said.

“The writing was just a medium for them to get their idea into my head.”

But she reminded her students that in

RivertonJournal.com

West Jordan Middle School science teacher Andrew Holmes loves using AI tools in his classroom. (Photo courtesy of Andrew Homes)

An example of a SchoolAI chatbot interaction. (Photo courtesy of Kevin Morrill)

other classes, using AI to write a paper is cheating.

“I would totally 100% support and understand any English teacher who said you can't use AI, because what they're assessing is the person's ability to write,” Saffen said.

To prevent students from using AI to cheat, Saffen said teachers will change the way they assess learning, just as teachers did when they realized they couldn’t keep calculators or the internet out of the classroom.

“Teachers don't let you use spell check on a spelling test, but they let you use spell check on your essays, and that's AI or machine learning,” Saffen said. “I totally think it will come down to teachers adapting and figuring out and asking the question, ‘What am I assessing?’ And if the AI is not counteracting what you're trying to assess, then I don't think we as teachers need to be afraid of it.”

Jordan District is already changing the way teachers assess students’ math skills.

Nearly all of the district’s middle schools are currently piloting a new interactive method of teaching secondary math skills through rich problem-solving. There is less opportunity to cheat because students solve math problems collaboratively instead of filling out worksheets on their own.

“People think that AI is going to change how everything is done to such a degree that people won't be able to adapt,” Saffen said.

“But teachers care about their students, and they care about knowing that their students learned the content. And so if we think that we are no longer able to do that, we will find a way. I’ve known some fantastic teachers and I know they’ll figure it out. It will just take a while. But I don't think AI is going to break everyone, I guess is what I'm saying.”

Kinder was initially distrustful of AI. “I did have trepidations about it— How is it creating this? Is this from a meaningful place? Can I trust it all the time to do that?”

Kinder said.

The solution to the problem of mistrust has been education.

Kinder attended training sessions and webinars to learn to use and understand AI, which helped her feel more comfortable using it. Now she uses it to develop engaging math activities, to collect and organize information for presentations and to craft emails.

Saffen, who uses AI for many tasks, always double-checks its work.

“There's some forms of machine learning that we use, and as teachers we understand what it is we're trying to do, so we're able to identify the weaknesses in that,” Saffen said.

When she introduces students to a new tech tool, there is always a conversation about the potential impacts and weaknesses in its capabilities.

“The students are aware that AI is going to be helpful, but also has potential concerns,” Saffen said. “I had a student ask the chatbot, ‘Is this information I need to cite and how would I cite it?’ I was actually really impressed that my students are already thinking along the conversation line of ‘How do I make sure that just because I'm using an AI, I'm not plagiarizing any ideas?’”

Teachers have been given the opportunity to get ahead of students on AI tools. Before SchoolAI was released district-wide, 100 Jordan District educators piloted SchoolAI and provided feedback that helped designers customize features according to teachers’ needs.

For the first few months of the school year, only teachers had direct access to SchoolAI. “Having teachers on-board early on and engaging with it helps them understand the benefits of SchoolAI,” Godfrey said. “It also helps them help students be good digital citizens, and to use AI effectively and in a way that helps support their learning, instead of using it as a substitute for learning.”

Saffen was impressed that the district offered AI training even before SchoolAI was in use in most classrooms. The Teaching and Learning Department provides regular training, as well as tips and support through their Instagram account and podcast.

“There are a lot of very smart, very capable people who have been at the forefront of this and have been ready for it for a while,” Saffen said.

Jordan School District has prioritized educating stakeholders to ease their concerns about AI in the classroom.

“We'll continue to inform parents and the community about how SchoolAI is being used,” Godfrey said. “Ongoing training is available for teachers to help make sure that we're making the most of artificial intelligence in the classroom.” l

Concern: AI can’t be trusted Answer: That’s true, so we make sure students understand that

January 2024 | Page 5

Riverton 2023

The Mountain Ridge baseball team celebrates a Jaxon Reiser home run at Utah Valley University during the 6A championship bracket. (Pat McDonald) Students from Kauri Sue Hamilton School took part in Jordan School District’s Sports Day. (Julie Slama/ City Journals)

During Utah’s first middle school unified basketball tournament, Mountain Creek and Oquirrh Hills meet at the opening tip. (Photo courtesy of Jamie Hakala)

First grade immersion students learn Portuguese in Jessica Bell’Aver’s class at Bluffdale Elementary.

(Morgan Olsen/City Journals)

Richard Henage and Bronson Bishop discuss strategy in preparation for their live debate at the International Public Policy Forum Global Debate Competition in New York City. (Alexander Henage/Wasatch Independent Debate League)

Orson Colby won first place in the national luge championship race in March 2023. (Photo courtesy Kelly Colby/Kelly Colby)

Page 6 | January 2024

Riverton City Journal

Students have a place to study and socialize at the Lil Red Tiny House in Riverton. (Rachel Haymond, Lil Red) Sophomore Mia Jackman (left) rallies the Riverton High fans at the away football game at Herriman High. (Julie Slama/City Journals) Carson Moody was not only part of the pitching staff but led the team from the plate in batting average (.458) and hits (44). (Pat McDonald)

Landers Gaydosh wins gold at an ice climbing competition in Finland (Photo credit Jonathan Gaydosh)

Mayor Trent Staggs, left, is honored by Liz Schrayer, right, of the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition. (Photo Courtesy of Shawn Dhar, USGLC)

Riverton resident Wendy Bird (left) created the Pearls With Purpose Foundation to provide jewelry-making training for women in developing countries. The women can create an income while building self-reliance. (Photo courtesy of Pearls With Purpose)

Teachers can borrow a desk cycle to exercise while working at their desk for teacher wellness. (Photo courtesy of Kathy Howa)

RivertonJournal.com

Arnica Christensen of Riverton Elementary is surprised with the news that she has been named an Outstanding Educator of the Year by the Jordan Education Foundation. (Doug Flagler/Jordan School District)

January 2024 | Page 7

Early success for Mountain Ridge girls basketball coming courtesy of young sophomore

By Josh McFadden | j.mcfadden@mycityjournals.com

T

he Mountain Ridge girls basketball team has gotten off to a strong start in the 2023– 24 season. Sophomore Jessica Maynard is a big reason why.

Through the team’s first eight games, and a 6-2 record, Maynard was second on the team in scoring at 14.1 points per game. She also led the Sentinels in rebounding with 8.6 an outing. After scoring nine points in the season opener against Lehi on Nov. 16, 2023, Maynard reached double figures in points the seven games that followed. She pulled down a season-high 15 rebounds while scoring 17 points in game two at Highland Nov. 21. In that same game, she also blocked a season-best four shots.

Mountain Ridge head coach Kenzie Newton couldn’t be more pleased with Maynard’s play. She also praises Maynard for what she does away from the game and for the type of person she is. “[Mayard] is not only an amazing young lady but a very talented basketball player,” Newton said. “She has a contagious smile and is someone that is admired by all of her teammates. Jess is very competitive on the court and makes us all laugh off the court.”

Maynard started playing at the young age of 5. You could say basketball is in her blood.

“I grew up around it,” she said. “Both of

my parents played in college, and most my siblings played. I lived and breathed basketball.”

Though she has experienced some difficult times playing the game, Maynard said her experience has been mostly positive and has included some memorable moments. She loves competing with her teammates, who are girls she has grown to love. It’s that team camaraderie that makes Mountain Ridge such a successful team and an enjoyable program to be a part of. Maynard said no one has a big ego, and it doesn’t matter who scores or puts up big numbers. The players are all in it together.

“We have really good coaches and good culture,” she said. “We have a very unselfish environment, and we are all in it for the win and not stats. We have good chemistry and it’s really cool to be part of a team like that.”

As a player, Maynard believes rebounding is one of her biggest strengths. She’s also a strong player inside and difficult for other teams to defend. Her prowess in the paint makes it difficult for the opposition to score on and shut down the Sentinels.

“I do well at getting myself to the basket inside the paint,” she said. “I bring an inside presence to the team.”

Maynard acknowledges she has things to work on, and she’s always striving to improve and develop. With still two more seasons after

Mountain Ridge center Jessica Maynard is averaging nearly a double-double this season, leading the Sentinels to a nice start. (Photo courtesy of L1quid Studios)

this one to play for Mountain Ridge, Maynard is already focusing on being a leader and an example on and off the court.

“I am working on my leadership skills and being more aggressive offensively,” she said.

Last season as a freshman, Maynard had more of a supporting role. She averaged 4.2

points and 2.8 rebounds a game for the Sentinels. Mountain Ridge tied for the Region 3 title with Herriman, going 8-2. The Sentinels were 19-6 overall and lost in the state tournament to Fremont in the Class 6A quarterfinals.

Maynard and her teammates want to repeat as league champions. To help accomplish this, she has set some lofty goals for herself.

“I want to average a double-double and for our team to work as a team and win region,” she said. “Individually, I need to be a scorer and get rebounds. For our team, we need to work as a team and move the ball.”

Maynard isn’t far away from averaging double figures in both points and rebounds.

She posted a double-double in those categories twice in the first eight games and nearly achieved it in two others when she had double figures in points and added eight rebounds. A great all-around player, she also had four steals against Cottonwood on Dec. 12 and had a season-high four assists against American Fork on Nov. 30.

Being just a sophomore, Maynard hasn’t mapped out her future just quite yet. Still, she doesn’t plan on walking away from the game after high school.

“I do see basketball in my future,” she said. l

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Development agreement signed for The Point’s Phase One, infrastructure will start this spring

By Mimi Darley Dutton | m.dutton@mycityjournals.com

T

he Point will start taking shape this spring after a development agreement was signed for Phase One. Leaders attribute that progress to fewer regulations in Utah allowing for innovation and people working collaboratively.

Phase One is approximately 100 acres centrally located among the 600 acres at the Point of the Mountain where the prison once stood. It will include more than 3,300 multi-family residential units (400 deemed affordable), 16 acres of parks including a Central Green for activities like concerts and skating, 6 miles of roads and more than 12,000 parking stalls, 10 miles of sidewalks and trails, more than 2 million square feet of office space, 540 hotel rooms, an event center with 2,000 seats, shopping, restaurants and grocery stores, and a large hall for facilitating relationships among universities, businesses and entrepreneurs. The Point’s officials anticipate the eventual creation of 14,000 local jobs.

“The entire Point is in Draper City. It’s been a long time coming…it’s very innovative. In a few months, you’ll see this place transform into the future,” Draper Mayor Troy Walker said.

Walker serves on The Point of the Mountain State Land Authority (POMSLA), a board that selected Innovation Point Partners (IPP) for the project. IPP is comprised of international firm Lincoln Property Company and Utah’s Colmena Group and Wadsworth Development Group.

The Point’s Executive Director Alan Matheson said input from 16,000 Utahns has shaped development because it is taxpayer owned land. Renderings of Phase One were on display at the ceremonial signing. “The public picked the most-dense development,” Walker said.

South Jordan Mayor Dawn Ramsey credits “Utah’s secret sauce” of collaboration, a phrase she heard from Gov. Spencer Cox, as the reason The Point is progressing.

“We’re kind of weird here in Utah…we collaborate,” Ramsey said.

The Point falls within the district of Congressman Burgess Owens who said taking away regulations for the sake of innovation “gives people in Utah the best life.”

Owens noted that Utah is the fastest growing state in the union. “I’ve never seen a state that is as innovative and forward thinking.

What we’ve done here is going to attract so many people. Knowing we’re going to grow, let’s do it smart. Making sure our kids can afford to stay—that’s the end goal,” Owens said.

Patrick Gilligan, executive vice president of Lincoln Property Company, echoed Ramsey’s and Owens’ statements. “This collaboration with the state wouldn’t happen in

RivertonJournal.com

Washington or California. It’s easier to do things in the private sector normally,” Gilligan said.

IPP will invest more than $2.3 billion in private sector financing to construct buildings and amenities. The Utah State Legislature has invested $165 million toward the creation of infrastructure, a loan that will be paid back with interest through revenues from future ground lease payments. “Over time, it will generate enough revenue to cover the cost of the new prison. It’s paid for but this is a way to backfill the budget,” Walker said. The Legislature also invested in a new FrontRunner station for the purpose of connecting to regional transit.

Walker anticipates The Point will likely contract with Draper City for public safety, emergency services and road maintenance.

“We’ll strike a price that works,” he said.

And he projects Draper property values to rise. “It’s certainly not going to impact values in a negative sense…that place is going to be desirable.”

Draper’s current population hovers around 55,000. Walker thinks it will rise to A rendering of the River to Range Courtyard at The Point. A Phase One development agreement was 80,000 when The Point is fully built, but signed in November and Draper’s Wadsworth Development Group is one of three companies working together as “Innovation Point Partners” on the project. (Courtesy The Point) slowly over time.

Since he first took office 10 years ago, Walker envisioned high-rises at The Point, now he thinks they’ll be 10 or 12 stories tall.

Because it’s state-owned, none of the property development will go through Draper’s planning commission, but “our city staff will get input.” He doesn’t think the growth will negatively affect his city. “It’s pretty unique for Draper residents. Our established community is quiet and then right across the freeway we’re going to have a vibrant downtown. It’s the best of both worlds.”

Walker continues to hope to attract an NFL or NHL team to have a stadium at The Point.

Infrastructure will begin this spring with vertical construction starting in 2025.

“It’s nothing but up,” Walker said. l

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Mountain Ridge girls wrestling continuing to progress, Fulks leading the way

W

ith a sport as new as girls wrestling, teams are bound to have inexperienced competitors. At Mountain Ridge, there are some newcomers, but it’s nice that wrestlers like Maddi Fulks has some matches under her belt.

Fulks is one of the top wrestlers on the Sentinels’ team, having started as a freshman. Now a junior, Fulks has emerged as a team leader and steady performer on the team.

It was largely thanks to someone else that Fulks got involved in the sport and joined the Mountain Ridge squad.

“I got interested because I had a friend who wrestled, and she convinced me to join,” Fulks said.

Prior to the 2020–21 season, girls who wanted to wrestler could join their schools’ boys team. But the Utah High School Activities Association sanctioned girls wrestling in 2020. This gave Fulks and high school girls like her more opportunities to participate. She loves competing and overcoming challenging obstacles.

“I like winning,” she said. “I also like knowing that I participate in a hard sport. It's hard but super rewarding.”

Head coach Brandon Birch is thrilled to have Fulks and counts on her not only for results on the mat but to help the other girls on the team. He also appreciates her daily efforts inside and outside of the wrestling room. “[Fulks] is a valuable addition to our team,” he said.

“Ever since her first year as a freshman, she has demonstrated strong leadership abilities, and they've gotten stronger every year. She works hard every day in practice and in the classroom.”

During her first two seasons with Mountain Ridge, Fulks qualified for the state tournament. Last season, she

By Josh McFadden | j.mcfadden@mycityjournals.com placed third in Class 6A in the 170-pound class.

“She is poised and ready to make another run in the state tournament,” Birch said. “She is one of the captains on our team and is a great example in every aspect a coach would want. She is an awesome person as well. She is well-liked by everyone and is a friend to all. Our team wouldn't be the same without her.”

Fulks echoes what her coach said. She wants to perform well at state once again and find herself at the top of the podium this year or next. For her team, Fulks is hoping the Sentinels can put together a strong season.

“My goal is to place in state again and get first place at least once,” she said. “My goals for the team are getting past the second round of state with more wins than losses. We need to work even better as a team and work as a unit and not for individual successes alone.”

As a wrestler, Fulks said she has good stamina and can continue to give her best and produce even during long, grueling matches. She sees herself as a good motivator too— someone who can inspire and lift up her teammates to be at their best when their best is required.

Still, Fulks is learning, developing and improving. She said there are aspects of the sport she is still working on.

“I need to improve my overall technique and thinking in my matches,” she said. “I feel like I would do even better once I learn how to chain multiple moves together.”

With another year left at Mountain Ridge, Fulks is unsure what the future holds for her in the sport and in life in general. She has a laid-back approach in this regard but is confident that good things are in store. l

“I'm not sure what my plans are after high school,” she said. “I'll just go with the flow and see where that takes me.” l

Maddi Fulks, in the center with the white shirt, placed third at the 6A state girls wrestling tournament a season ago. The junior has high hopes this season as she works to compete for top honors once again.

(Photo courtesy of Brandon Birch)

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Riverton City Journal

JANUARY 2024

RIVERTON REVIEW Official Newsletter of the Riverton, Utah City Government MAYOR’S MESSAGE

2024 Citizens Survey Needs You! By Mayor Trent Staggs

to spend a few minutes answering questions in our 2024 Citizens Survey.

(Fill out the Citizens Survey by scanning the QR code or by going to rivertonutah.gov/2023survey)

Riverton’s growth and success is Our city organizational structure driven by places citizens at the top, where it our highly engaged and active citishould be. All city staff and elected zens. It is your vision and voice that officials ultimately answer to the guides our city govtaxpayer. In Rivernment in making erton, we seek to strategic decisions be a government “Riverton City elected for our community. of, by, and for the officials and staff We want to hear people. review a comprehensive from you! strategic plan for the America’s commitEvery two years, ment to self-govcity. These plans are Riverton City ernance starts and directed and shaped elected officials ends with citizens by your answers and and staff review partnering with ideas.” a comprehensive their neighbors. strategic plan for Together, we can the city. These plans craft a future are directed and shaped by your that benefits everyone. Riverton’s answers and ideas. I encourage you surveys are a simple but powerful

way to make your voices heard in City Hall.

In previous years, survey participants demonstrated a preference for more local shopping and dine-in options in the city. This data helped shape our plans to welcome Mountain View Village to our community.

Its success serves our city well and is positioned to help our community for generations to come.

Past survey results have also indicated a desire to develop a strong sense of community, especially as our part of the valley continues to grow. City staff have worked tirelessly to expand our Town Days celebrations, invest in more recreational activities, preserve our historic sites, and much more.

The year ahead of us is full of promise and opportunity. Your participation in the survey will help Riverton continue to flourish.

Christmas Tree Recycling Properly dispose of live Christmas trees at one of three free drop-off locations through the end of January.

Centennial Park 13000 S 2700 W Monarch Meadows Park 13675 S Monarch Meadows Parkway Riverton Rodeo Arena 12800 S 1300 W

Look for the 2024 Survey Postcard in your rmailbox.

RIVERTON REVIEW | JANUARY 2024

Scan the QR Code and take the Survey today.

PAGE 1

COUNCIL MESSAGE

Farewell and Thank You ELECTED OFFICIALS Trent Staggs - Mayor Andy Pierucci - District 1 Troy McDougal - District 2 Tawnee McCay - District 3 Tish Buroker - District 4 Claude Wells - District 5

UPCOMING CITY MEETINGS CITY COUNCIL December 6, 7 p.m.

PLANNING COMMISSION December 14, 6:30 p.m.

CONTACT US rivertonutah.gov 801-254-0704

Report a problem at rivertonutah.gov/report

FIND US ONLINE! @rivertonutahgov PAGE 2

By Councilmember Claude Wells

As I reflect on the close of my four-year term as a Councilmember for Riverton City, Council District #5, I am humbled to have had the privilege to represent the great residents of our city! I have learned a great deal about how our city runs and made the best of it by studying and researching the issues faced by our city through an unprecedented pandemic, and extensive growth in the South Valley.

I met a lot of people over the last five years including campaigning for elected office and have made a lot of friendships I will carry forward.

We watched Mountain View Village become an important anchor with the development of phase two which will bring in additional sales dollars which puts our city in great shape economically and financially going into the future.

There were so many opportunities for training that I took advantage of to be educated on issues so I could help make the best decisions for our city. Some of the highlights were participating in the first Citizens Police Academy for RPD and the United Fire Academy (UFA). I was able to visit all 32 of our Water pump houses when I first got into office. Water is our most important resource provided by our city. I also had the opportunity to be appointed to several boards.

During these assignments, I had a chance to meet with and work

with several like-minded colleagues we needed to protect the property rights of our community. I am where we could learn from each proud to say that we kept out all other’s experiences I have had the opportunity to work with great city new high-density housing in District 5 in the last four years. There is staffers and the best employees a place for high density, but we over my term. I was able to ride in already were compliant and had a snowplow to see what challengenough in our dises our snowplow trict. I did my best drivers encounter with other Counwhen cars are cilmembers to keep parked on narrow “I have learned a great taxes and service streets or in small deal about how our increases down cul-de-sacs. I city runs and made the during my term in watched Old Liberbest of it by studying office. When I ran ty Way get built in and researching for office, I devoted the middle of the the issues faced my time to helping night to see what by our city through as many residents goes into buildan unprecedented ing a road from pandemic, and extensive as I could and listened to their scratch. growth in the South concerns. Every Valley.”

There were so issue has two sides, many opportuand it is important nities to learn to do your research from professionals to make sure and help residents understand the I understood budget needs and challenges of a middle size city constraints. We went through four with limited resources. I feel that budget cycles and did not have to our Council was fiscally responsible increase taxes for residents other and that we made solid decisions than Police and Fire to keep combased on those resources. It was a petitive in the marketplace. privilege to serve with six different Councilmembers, and our Mayor Some of the other highlights were during my tenure. I will miss helpparticipating in city events and acing to shape our city and making tivities like the parade, the rodeo, a difference in our community. the car show, State of the City, My goal was to be a good public serving breakfast to our community servant and not a politician. I made during town days and representing decisions based on research and our city businesses with countless facts rather than future election ribbon cutting activities. The most chances. humble event was Wreaths Across America and our Riverton Veterans I am grateful for the confidence programs with American Legion residents put in me to represent Post 140. their values and goals for our city!

There is a lot I will miss, but it is I was involved with several pubtime for me to spend more time lic hearings at Council meetings with our growing family. When I where the Council would vote for was elected, we had two grandkids. or against developments that were Now we have 10 grandkids with 8 either good for our residents or grandkids under age five.

RIVERTON REVIEW | JANUARY 2024

PUBLIC SAFETY MESSAGE

7 Things to Keep in Your Car This Winter Winter brings along its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to staying safe while driving.

As you gear up for the next few months, it’s crucial to prioritize safety by having an emergency preparedness kit in your car. Especially after the record-breaking snowfall we experienced last year, being prepared for the worst can make a world of difference. Here are seven essential tips and tricks to create your winter car survival kit: 1. Warmth is Key: Include blankets, extra gloves, hats, and hand warmers in your kit. They can provide warmth if you’re stranded in freezing temperatures waiting for help to arrive.

2. Lighting Essentials: Always have a flashlight with spare batteries. Days are shorter in winter, and in case of an emergency at night, a reliable light source is indispensable.

3. Emergency Tools: Keep a multipurpose tool, like a Swiss army knife or a multi-tool kit, in your car.

It can be handy for various tasks in an emergency.

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4. Food and Water: Pack non-perishable snacks like energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits, along with bottles of water. These can sustain you until help arrives if you’re stranded for an extended period.

5. Communication Devices: A portable phone charger, a charged power bank, and a backup cellphone (if possible) can be lifesavers. They ensure you can communicate even if your car battery dies.

6. First Aid Kit: A compact first aid kit with essential supplies is crucial.

Collecting items such as bandages, band-aids, Neosporin, and Tylenol is a great place to start.

7. Car Maintenance Supplies: Carry an ice scraper, shovel, and jumper

cables. These can help you clear snow, ice, or restart your car if the battery fails.

Remember to regularly check and update your emergency kit. Also, ensure everyone driving your vehicle knows where it’s located and what it contains.

Having a well-equipped winter emergency kit in your car isn’t just a precaution; it’s a necessity. It could mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a potentially life-threatening situation.

Take the time now to prepare, stay safe, and be ready for whatever winter may bring to us this year.

Learn more about emergency kits by visiting rivertonutah.gov/preparedness.

2024 Riverton City Calendar Has Arrived!

The new 2024 Riverton Calendar will keep you in the know on events and happenings this year.

You should have received it in your mailbox already. If you haven’t received one, you can pick one up for free at the Recreation & Events window at Riverton City Hall.

RIVERTON REVIEW | JANUARY 2024

n rivertonutah.gov/subscribe Get the latest city updates, e-newsletters, event information and other news delivered right to your inbox.

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n rivertonutah.gov/app

Report a problem, see the city calendar, get directions to parks and city facilities, and find city information right from your mobile device.

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PAGE 3

UPCOMING EVENTS

RIVERTON REVIEW

Submissions Wanted

Couch to 5K Training Program Have you ever wanted to start running, but just aren’t sure how? Join us for a Couch to 5K program to gradually build up your running ability in just eight weeks. This program is for people looking for a structured introduction to running with support along the way. Cost is $30.

Free entry in the 4Life 5K on March 23, 2024, with a race t-shirt training support and much more.

Register at: rivertonutah.gov/couch-to-5k

Young artists and creators age 18 and younger are invited submit artwork entries in the Not Your Parent’s Art Show.

• Artwork Entry Period: January 10-26 • Find details at rivertonutah.gov/exhibits.

Winter Parking Policy and Snow Removal Protocol

The following snow removal protocol and winter parking policy is in effect in Riverton: • Between November 1 and March 1, no vehicle may be parked on city streets during a snow storm OR where snow has accumulated on road shoulders.

• Major roadways, high-traffic areas and school zones are prioritized in snow removal efforts as a matter of public safety.

• Minor roads and cul-de-sacs are cleared if 4 inches of snow or more has accumulated once main roadways are clear.

For additional details, visit rivertonutah.gov/snow

Half Marathon & 4Life 5K Be part of a Riverton tradition and come participate in one of the valley’s best races. The race is designed for all ages and abilities with medals and prizes awarded for participants and winners.

General registration opens January 1 for the Riverton ½ Marathon & 4Life 5K Race Day is Saturday, March 23, 2024 9 a.m. (Half), 9:15 a.m. (5K), City Park

Register at: rivertonutah.gov/half

Trans-Jordan Landfill Disposal Vouchers

Register: Couch to 5K

QPR Suicide Prevention Training

Register: Just You & I Daddy-Daughter Date

Pick up a free voucher to the TransJordan Landfill at the Utility Billing Office at Riverton City Hall when you begin your spring cleaning.

Gradually build up your running ability as part of our Couch to 5K training program! Program begins January 31 and continues for 8 weeks.

Attend a free suicide prevention training to learn how to respond to someone in crisis.

Classes normally occur monthly. Register at rivertonutah.gov/qpr.

This daddy-daughter date night near Valentine’s Day is a hit and sells out early! Suitable for girls ages 3-12.

Register at rivertonutah.gov/date-night.

• Limit of two vouchers per household per year.

• Register online at rivertonutah.gov/couch-to-5k.

• Monthly, 3rd Thursday, 7 p.m., Riverton City Hall

• Friday, February 9, 6 p.m., Sandra N. Lloyd Community Center

PAGE 4

RIVERTON REVIEW | JANUARY 2024

Utah’s transportation partners release statewide master plan for future

By Tom Haraldsen | t.haraldsen@mycityjournals.com

G

overnment leaders and transportation gurus have released an updated Unified Transportation Plan for Utah, one aimed at addressing the state’s needs through 2050. It encompasses all forms of transportation, from cars, buses and rail to bike and pedestrian paths.

The plan was a collaborative effort created over a four-year period between the Utah Department of Transportation, Utah Transit Authority, the Mountainland Association of Governments, the Wasatch Front Regional Council and several metropolitan planning agencies. Its stated goal is “preserving and enhancing the quality of life in Utah” as Utah’s population grows.

“Utah’s great quality of life keeps generations of families here and attracts many new residents every year,” Governor Spencer Cox said. “Careful, collaborative transportation planning is key to ensuring safe, efficient and comfortable travel for all Utahns. Community health, economic vibrance, and livability are closely linked to travel choices—from walking and biking to riding transit to driving.”

Davis County Commissioner Bob Stevenson said the plan “ties things together nicely. We realize all the growth the state will have over the next 30 years and the need to start on some projects immediately.”

The trail systems along the Wasatch Front, for example, are being completed to literally connect with each other. The Parley’s Trail completion in West Valley City in early October helped link east and westside communities, and a new section of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail in Davis County was planned to open on Oct. 24.

South Jordan Mayor Dawn Ramsey, who chairs the WFRC, said “the planning process looks at the relationship between transportation, land use and economic development by thoughtfully coordinating housing, jobs and transportation connections together. City and town centers yield numerous benefits by improving access and reducing the time spent getting from point A to point B.” Of immediate concern is the rebuild of Interstate 15 from Farmington to North Salt Lake, with plenty of questions and concerns expressed by residents in the communities affected. It’s a challenge for UDOT. “As our state grows, we are committed to providing safe transportation choices for all people to get where they want, when they want, in the way they want,” said UDOT Executive Director Carlos Braceras. “Those needs are different today than they were in previous years, and in the Unified Plan, transportation partners throughout the state collaborate to identify solutions for the evolving needs that we anticipate in the years ahead.”

“Utah’s quality of life revolves around transportation choices,” said Carlton Christensen, chair of the UTA board. “UTA is proud

RivertonJournal.com

to be part of Utah’s Unified Transportation Plan as we work closely with UDOT, regional planning partners, and municipalities to ensure every community has accessible, healthy options.

Riding transit offers a less stressful way to get there.”

The plan, which is available to read online at unifiedplan.org, outlines goals for its implementation. An interactive map on the site is broken down by regions, modes of transportation and into 10-year segments, highlighting what projects are scheduled.

It estimates that households will experience almost six days of less driving per year once improvements are completed. The state’s economy will be bolstered through infrastructure investments and job growth. Utah’s GDP will grow by approximately $247 billion and over 271,000 jobs will be created. And the changes will reduce air pollution from emissions by 13%.

Over the course of the plan’s implementation, more than 4,700 miles of transportation roads and pathways will be added.

This is the latest version of a plan that’s been updated for years. Previous versions have been praised by the U.S. Department of Transportation as setting a standard for cooperation between entities with varying needs. l

Continued from front page ing on ways to make traffic flow better at that interchange. Giles is also looking forward to the remodel of the community center, which will include a new plaza, pavilions, restrooms and a small amphitheater. He says it will be a great location for local arts. The interior of the center should be complete later this winter and he hopes the exterior will be finished in April.

“Craig’s background operating in small and mid-size cities gives him a great sense of our culture and an ability to safeguard our priority of maintaining Riverton’s close-community qualities,” Staggs said.

“Craig will ensure our city staff fulfills all that is expected of the city and more. Riverton City is continuing to prove to the state that a fiscally conservative government can provide for the needs of our residents without raising taxes. Our discipline over the years is attracting like-minds like Craig’s to help us increase the quality of our municipal services without placing on our taxpayers’ shoulders the burden of increased taxes.”

Staggs said Riverton elected officials and staff are united behind these strategic priorities. “We will continue to execute our plan to benefit our citizens today and provide for the city’s future for generations to come.”

Giles and his wife Carrie have one son who is studying education at USU and who plans to become an English teacher. l

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January 2024 | Page 15

The City Journals is recognized for its pay equity and women-friendly practices

By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

T

he City Journals has been named as one of the 100 Companies Championing Women. The Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, the CoxHenderson Administration and the Utah Women & Leadership Project created the initiative in 2022, as part of the Inspire InUtah program, to recognize businesses that offer family-friendly policies and women-specific practices that advance women as managers and leaders.

Listed in the 2024 cohort of 100 Companies Championing Women, The City Journals joins other organizations like Davis Technical College, Women of the World, Bennett Communications and Saprea. The City Journals publishes 18 community newspapers each month, along with the weekly Davis Journal. It also creates the Value Pages coupon magazine.

“Women are imperative to our business at the Journals,” said Bryan Scott, City Journals owner and publisher. “Women make up the majority of our readership. Women make up the majority of our employees, particularly our writers. And if most homes are like mine, most of our shopping decisions are made by women, which makes it important to our advertisers.”

State leaders believe when businesses unite in their mission to champion women, it creates a force that can reshape the corporate landscape, and change the lives of women as it paves the way for equality and empowerment.

While Utah continues to rank as the worst state for women’s equality, the governor’s office and Inspire InUtah hopes to create a business community where women are supported, whether that’s through pay equity and childcare support, or professional development and leadership programs.

Elizabeth Sweat, people leader at The City Journals, said the company has focused on women-friendly practices, including pay equity for all female employ-

ees.

“We are transparent about our pay,” Sweat said. “We have the same pay for all of our beat writer contractors based on their length of service and we pay our commissioned sales reps the same, based on the amount they sell. Women and men are paid the exact same for the exact position.”

The City Journals also implements recruitment strategies, focused on increasing the number of women employees, with flexible work schedules that accommodate work-from-home situations.

“Some were hesitant to say they had school drop-off or such, but I let them know that we love working moms,” she said. “Prior to COVID, we had a program called Project Homemaker where we specifically targeted stay-at-home parents.

They were appointment setters that worked approximately 12 hours a week based on their children’s school schedules. That is a program that we hope to bring back soon.”

The Women’s Evolution group at The City Journals used to meet in person every month, but with so many remote workers, Sweat sends out a calendar of community and business events that women can choose to attend. The calendar also includes community resources geared toward women.

Female employees are encouraged to find a Women in Business group based on their personal interests and schedules, although they are not required to attend because many have limited time for networking.

The City Journals supports women in leadership positions. Currently, the sales manager is a woman, as is one of the three community newspaper editors. Full-time employees include nine women and seven men.

“It became very evident to me a few years ago that the success of our company will be dependent on our ability to have women work for us,” Scott said. “Our

City Journals staff members include (from left) Brialee Nelson, Kayla Palmer, Elizabeth Sweat, Bryan Scott, Rachael Roberts and Mieka Sawatzki. They join Alderman Properties Managing Partner Trish Alderman (third from right), at the Chamber West Fall Conference. The City Journals was recently named as a 100 Companies Championing Women organization. (City Journals)

journey started with our staff making sure we were building a company where women would be comfortable working. We still have a long road to go, but I think this award demonstrates the strides that we have made.”

The 2024 cohort of 100 Companies

Championing Women joins the inaugural 2023 group that includes organizations like Clearfield City, Cotopaxi, Goldman Sachs and the Women’s Leadership Institute. For more information, visit InUtah. org. l

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Riverton racing to win another region swimming title

By Josh McFadden | j.mcfadden@mycityjournals.com

F

or the Riverton High School swim team, winning region championships has become a habit. There’s no reason to expect it won’t happen again this year.

The girls team has three region titles to its credit, while the boys are on a streak of three consecutive league crowns. Head coach Andrew Powers expects the success to continue.

He also has his sights set on the state meet, where he is hopeful that the team will compete well with the top Class 6A schools. He is also optimistic that several of his swimmers will perform well.

“It's always great to see both the boys and girls team win a region title at the same time,” he said. “Looking further past that, we are hoping to have our boys and girls team in the top five of the state and have quite a few swimmers bring home some top finishes at the state championship.”

The state championship meet is Feb. 23–24 at Brigham Young University. Last season, the girls placed fifth at state, while the boys were just outside the top five, finishing in sixth.

Achieving these lofty goals will take nothing short of consistent effort and dedication.

Swimmers already have a demanding schedule, but success requires this commitment.

“The biggest thing to make this happen is to get the swimmers to the pool and practice,” Powers said. “It seems to be getting harder and harder to get ideal pool time to practice, so the more opportunities the kids get in the water, the better they will be. Right now, we are currently practicing Monday through Friday from 5 to 6:30 a.m. This is not the most ideal situation for anyone, especially teenagers, who sometimes get to bed at 11 p.m. or later after doing homework, jobs or other extracurricular activities.”

Powers has many leaders and top performers to turn to.

Riverton’s captains are Aliyah Carranza, Faith Fox, Dylan Middaugh and Payton Hill, who have all been a part of the team since their freshman seasons. Junior Lucy Haymond is ranked in the top eight in the state in both the backstroke and butterfly. Sophomore Alexandra Lund is a top-eight swimmer in the state in the individual medley and 500-yard freestyle.

Hill, a senior, is ranked in the top 10 in the individual medley and backstroke. In the butterfly and 500 free, junior Johnny Janzen is a top-10 ranked swimmer.

“We do have many more swimmers who are ranked high in their races and are hoping to have them get closer to the top as we race at regions on Feb. 2 in Bountiful,” Powers said.

Becoming a good swimmer requires much more than having natural talent. Powers said his top swimmers excel because of the incredible amount of work they put into their craft every day. Many top swimmers swim year-round, too.

“Just like any champion in any sport, one

Page 18 | January 2024

of the ways that these swimmers get so good is by training hard,” he said. “Some of our swimmers also swim on a club team. That means they will swim with Riverton in the morning and then sometimes go to their club team in the afternoon for another two-hour practice. As I mentioned before, time in a pool is critical for a swimmer's success. You'll notice a pattern that the top swimmers in the state will take their workouts very seriously and train with a purpose every time they jump in the water, no matter if it is club, high school, age group or collegiate level.”

Assembling a group of student-athletes and getting them all on the same page can be challenging. Powers coaches many swimmers, all of whom have different personalities, attitudes and outlooks. But one thing you can expect from the Riverton swim team is a closeknit group of young men and young women that get along well.

“One of the strengths of our teams is the level of caring and love that we have for each other,” Powers said. “When you are on the Riverton swim team, you feel like you belong.

No one on our team is there to judge, bully or criticize. All of our swimmers cheer each other on, support one another and care. Many on the team have mentioned that they feel the swim team is their second family.”

As for the team’s performance in the water, Powers is pleased with how the swimmers are doing.

“One of our strengths in the pool is our taper,” he said. “Taper is a time leading up to a big competition where swimmers decrease their volume in practice and increase rest to prepare their bodies to give a personal record.

Riverton's taper is unlike any other teams in the region or district. We achieve personal records that are mind-blowing and unbelievable unless you were there to see for yourself.”

One of the biggest challenges Powers and his team faces is finding suitable practice times and fitting all his swimmers into one venue.

The Silverwolves contend with limited practice space and have been working out at the Draper Recreation Center. However, only five lanes are available, so Powers has to figure out how to get everyone into the pool.

“We just do what we can with the situation we are in and teach the kids that although it's not what we want, we don't live in a perfect world and so we make the best of what we got,” he said.

Though Powers spends a considerable amount of his time coaching Riverton—10 hours a week of practice for 20 weeks as well as four hours a week for meets—he loves his job. He enjoys watching the swimmers achieve goals, improve and learn lessons. He has seen growth not just in the pool but in swimmers’ lives in general.

“It is hard not to care about your team,” he said. “I know their goals, I know their times, I know their character, and I want to see them

The Riverton swim team has won multiple region titles in recent years and are favorites to win it again this season. (Photo courtesy of Andrew Powers)

succeed–not just in the pool but also in life. I have been the head coach for Riverton for eight years, and it is always a special treat when I get to see former swimmers and see how they have grown up. Some have already gotten married

and had babies. I do think of my swimmers as some of my best friends, and they will always have a special place in my heart. I hope that I get the chance to stay connected to as many of them as possible.” l

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• IS safe and effective • IS COVERED by most insurance TMS is like physical therapy for the brain. It uses magnetic pulses, similar in strength to MRI, to reignite dormant connections in the brain and give you control of your depression. With NeuroStar, you can live on your terms.

Our Psychiatrist is available now, don’t wait to get help.

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Outcomes Registry data was published by Sackeim HA, et al. J Affective Disorders, 2020, 277(12):65-74. The outcomes reported represent the subset of study patients for which the CGI-S data was reported before and after an acute course of NeuroStar TMS. Patients were treated under realworld conditions where patients may have been prescribed concomitant depression treatments including medications. “Measurable relief” was defined as a CGI-S score <=3 and “complete remission” was defined as a CGI-S score <=2 at the end of treatment.

RivertonJournal.com

January 2024 | Page 19

Cremation Services You can count on a variety of options for cremation services when you choose Larkin Mortuary.

LOCAL FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED Taking Care of your Family’s Needs every step of the way You may choose a burial plot, urn garden, scattering gardens, columbarium niche, or memory wall at our on-site crematory. Whether your family would like a direct cremation without a ceremony or would like to enlist the help of our funeral planners for a memorial ceremony, we are here to help. Choose traditional funeral services or life celebrations to honor the life of your loved one.

As you plan the end-of-life services, there are dozens of decisions to make during an emotional time. LET OUR TEAM HELP YOU choose urns, vaults, and memorials.

We can also help with flower arrangements, catering, and grief resources.

WE CAN ARRANGE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR

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Larkin Mortuary 260 East South Temple Salt Lake City, UT 84111 (801) 363-5781

Larkin Sunset Lawn 2350 East 1300 South Salt Lake City, UT 84108 (801) 582-1582

Larkin Sunset Gardens 1950 East Dimple Dell Road (10600 S.) • Sandy, UT 84092 (801) 571-2771

Larkin Mortuary Riverton 3688 West 12600 South Riverton, UT 84065 (801) 254-4850

LarkinMortuary.com Page 20 | January 2024

Riverton City Journal

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January 2024 | Page 21

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JORDAN SCHOOL DISTRICT - Public Notices

SPECIAL EDUCATION CHILD FUND Every child is entitled to a public education regardless of disability. Children with disabilities may go without services because families are not fully aware of their options.

If you know of a child, birth to age 22, who is not receiving any education services or feel that your child may be in need of special education services, please contact your local school or call the Special Education Department in Jordan School District at (801) 567-8176.

SPECIAL EDUCATION RECORDS DESTRUCTION On January 31, 2024, Jordan School District will destroy special education records of students born prior to September, 1996. Former special education students who are 27 years old may request their records from the school last attended; otherwise, the records will be destroyed.

CARSON SMITH SCHOLARSHIP Public school students with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) may be eligible for a scholarship to attend a private school through the Carson Smith Scholarship program.

Further information is available at http://www.schools.utah.gov/sars/Scholarships.aspx

Have a

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We are the bridge between businesses and the community in Bluffdale, Herriman, and Riverton.

KNIGHT OF HEROES was an amazing event. We were able to honor unsung heroes in our community and to recognize the following for going above and beyond:

THANK YOU heroes in Bluffdale, Herriman, Riverton!

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Page 22 | January 2024

Guaranteed Auto Body Repairs For ANY Insurance Company

Bluffdale Fire: Paramedic Bryant Widdison, Paramedic James Quinn, Paramedic Rob Philbrick, Paramedic Fritz Borchardt, Firefighter Cody Hardy Common Spirit Holy Cross: • Marcee Mortensen-Halvorsen, RN Small Business: The Nut Garden Businessman: Jeremy Weaver Riverton Hospital: Linh moran, MD Businesswoman: Sarah Stroup Herriman ER: Brittni clark, RN Military Hero: Chief Rachael Pogue Large Business: Larkin Mortuary UFA Paramedics: Thomas Apgood, Michael Thompson Volunteer: Corey Fairholm Bluffdale Police Department: • Officer Omar Villagomez • Officer Garrett Carter • Officer Tailo Roberts Community Champion: Lee’s Marketplace

Susan Schilling 801-280-0595 | susan@mountainwestchamber.org

WWW.MOUNTAINWESTCHAMBER.ORG Riverton City Journal

A Bitter Pill

I

’m at the point where each doctor visit starts with “Well, at your age…”. I need to get my liver rotated, my heart valves oiled, my lung filters changed and I need a lot of bodywork done. Nips and tucks won’t do it, I need parts replaced and a complete undercarriage overhaul.

I’ve got 99 problems and the cost of health insurance counts for at least 90.

When I found myself without health insurance at the end of last year, I jumped on Healthcare.gov to explore my “affordable” options. The site states that four out of five people can find a plan for $10 or less a month, after tax subsidies.

What they don’t tell you is that the fifth person has to get a third job, sell organs on the black market or start printing money in the basement to afford a healthcare plan.

As I scrolled through my health insurance options, I got irrationally angry. Plans started at around $500 per month, with deductibles ranging from $7,500 to Lamborghini. Keep in mind, this was for one person, not an entire family with pets and farm animals.

Since I had to register by the middle of December, my email was flooded with reminders from the site. Have I registered?

Why not? Did I forget? Did I become independently wealthy? Did I decide to use the money for something fun instead?

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No. On the day before the deadline, I put on my adulting hat and signed up for health insurance. I’m still irrationally angry.

I am seriously considering Alternate Healthcare Plan B, which is file for bankruptcy in the event of a major medical emergency.

Still haven’t ruled that option out.

I also have Healthcare Plan C: try not to get sick or need a blood transfusion or get concussed or go for an ambulance ride or break a bone. No emergency room visits.

Just good old-fashioned stubbornness and denial.

There are also herbal remedies and a variety of healing crystals that don’t actually solve my internal issues (there’s only so much power in a rose quartz) but it’s cheaper than an MRI. Or there’s always my mom’s answer to any illness when I was a kid: a spoonful of paregoric. The opium-based medicine made me feel very sleepy and hazy.

But, for now, I’ll end up paying at least

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$7,000 per year to cover my annual physical, a series of blood tests and a couple of prescriptions. But I still have a copay because that seven grand isn’t nearly enough, obviously.

I’ve been without health insurance before, but here’s the thing, affordable insurance shouldn’t be tied to employment. Because I’m not made of diamonds, I took a part-time job to cover health care costs.

When we stayed in San Diego last summer, we dreamed about staying in a luxury hotel for $800 a night. Hospitals charge that much just for the ice chips. But our family learned the hard way that a one-week stay in the ICU can quickly reach nearly $100,000,

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RivertonJournal.com

Focus on Quality & Honesty!

Textures, Water Damage, Patches, Trim, Basements

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Steve Tarabetz 801-913-9385 Automotive Services

Randy’s Tire and Muffler

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treats 330 gallons up to five years

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or about $14,000 per night. And that’s without the beach access and sunrise mimosas.

Ironically, Intermountain Healthcare recently rebranded as Intermountain Health.

Literally taking the “care” out of health care.

I’m just one more person complaining about the high cost of insurance, but when medical expenses are one of the leading causes of bankruptcies in Utah, shouldn’t we start looking at the root cause?

At what point do we put the “care” back in healthcare and create affordable options so I can get my joints greased, my oxygen system replaced and my body’s systems recalibrated?

Licensed and Insured / 30+ Yrs Experience

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MILLER CONSTRUCTION

MUSIC LESSONS

GIVE A GIFT FOR A LIFETIME! Beginner Piano Lessons Fun, creative teaching style 29 years of teaching ages 3 + Beginners are my FORTE!

Call/Text Karen

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Call Ala for Estimate 801-835-0051 AnEConstructionLLC@gmail.com

FENCE REPAIR

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Most Fences are Repairable!

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GENERAL CONTRACTOR WILLIAMS CONSTRUCTION

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Don’t slip and fall this winter!

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Quality and Integrity for over 25 Years

January 2024 | Page 23

NO SURGERY. NO DRUGS. NO GIMMICKS.

THE PAIN STOPS HERE • BACK PAIN

• SCIATICA

• SPINAL DEGENERATION

• NEUROPATHY

• FAILED SURGERY

• SPINAL STENOSIS

• ARTHRITIS

• WHIPLASH

• HERNIATED & BULGING DISCS

• AUTO ACCIDENT INJURIES AND MORE

Join the hundreds of patients that have experienced complete relief from the frustrating pain of severe back, neck, and joint problems without surgery, without drugs, and without having to live feeling miserable.

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“Dozens of doctors told me that there was nothing more that they could do to expect to be in a wheel chair. I went from the top 1% in the army Special Forces to being in so much pain that I could not tie my shoe or hold my new daughter. I did physical therapy and pain killers for years, but nothing worked. Finally, I went to Dr. Smith and I improved exactly as he told me I would. I couldn’t believe it! My wife cried, “I have my husband back.”

—Steve M., Army Special Forces

Comprehensive Spinal Exam, Consultation (X-rays if needed) & 3 Pain Relieving Treatments for $37 Expires January 31, 2024

(801) 302 02-- 0280 AUTO ACCIDENT INJURIES ARE 100% COVERED BY AUTO INSURANCE

Matthew D. Smith

D.C. CSCS Chiropractic Physician