Taylorsville Journal | April 2023

TAYLORSVILLE PD ALWAYS SEARCHING FOR MORE SCHOOL

By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com

Every once in a while, we hear something and think, “Hmmm… I never knew that.” Sure, in some of those cases, perhaps lots of people DO already know it. But that doesn’t stop us from thinking, “hmmmm.”

Want a couple of examples? OK – first, were you aware Utah high schools now field complete girls’ wrestling teams, with 14 different weight classes? They’ve been around three years. Of course, thousands – maybe tens-of-thousands – of girls and their parents and relatives and coaches knew this. But did you?

Second, were you aware Granite School District employs all the teachers and lunch workers and bus drivers serving students attending their schools in Taylorsville – BUT, the district does not employ the crossing guards? Those duties fall to a civilian division of the Taylorsville Police Department. And before TVPD was formed 21 months ago, Unified Police Department coordinated those positions.

Now, a third question you may be asking yourself: “Why on earth would girls’ high school wrestling be mentioned in a story about school crossing guards?” That one’s easy. Meet Chyrelle Fowers.

“I have two parttime jobs – as the Taylorsville Police Crossing Guard Supervisor and as an assistant coach for the Copper Hills High School girls’ wrestling team,” Fowers explained. “I supervised the crossing guards back when they were under UPD. I was just carried over in the position when the Taylorsville Police Department formed. As for wrestling: my four sons wrestled, so I had been around it for years. Then my daughter wanted to

Continued page 9

Taylorsville Police Crossing Guard Supervisor Chyrelle Fowers (L) and one of her

employees, Maryann Hagblom, keep students safe, five days a week. (Carl Fauver/City Journals)

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Unified Fire officials tout simple practice to save lives: close bedroom doors at night

By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com

Ask any Taylorsville City Council member how often they see something “shocking” or “amazing” while conducting their twice-monthly meetings at the west end of city hall, and chances are they will say “rarely” or “almost never.” After all, they are conducting city business which, for the most part, is pretty routine.

But Unified Fire Authority Captain Richard Rich bucked that trend during his most recent quarterly report to the city council with a 3-minute video.

“Wasn’t that the coolest thing? It was amazing,” Councilwoman Anna Barbieri said. “I have sent that video link to so many people.”

“That video made me move to action,” Councilman Curt Cochran added. “The next day, I ordered a nylon rope fire escape ladder because our bedroom is on the second floor.”

And Mayor Kristie Overson concluded: “Fire Station 118 offered a live demonstration last fall which Councilman Burgess and I attended. It is incredible.”

The elected officials – and others attending the city council meeting – were all buzzing about a fire safety video showing the incredible effectiveness of a closed bedroom door during a house blaze. In the demonstration a fire was started at one end of a hallway. A bedroom door midway down the hall was closed tight –while a bedroom door at the far end of the hall was left open.

In just a few, time-lapsed minutes, the video clearly shows the fire creeping past the closed bedroom door, on down the hall to the open-door bedroom. The rooms at both ends of the hallway were completely destroyed. But the middle bedroom behind the closed door remained in nearly pristine condition 15 to 30 minutes later.

“Most people have no idea how much fire protection a closed bedroom door can provide,” Rich said. “Because many of our

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furnishings are now made of synthetics (as opposed to natural fibers, like cotton) fire spreads much more quickly than years ago. We used to estimate house fire safe escape times at 17 minutes. Now it’s 3. Closed bedroom doors can give people so much more time. But studies show only 29% of people sleep with their bedroom door closed.”

Overson is not surprised by that last statistic.

“As a mother, closing a door where young kids are sleeping is such a hard concept,” she added. “It just goes against what I have always thought. When I had young children in the house, I wanted to be able to hear them at night. But there is no question, closing the doors can make a huge difference during a fire.”

Rich recognizes this reluctance and says he hears it every time he shows the video to groups. He admits the decision was a tough one, even in his own home. Eventually, he did

decide to close bedroom doors at night and make use of baby monitors.

Called the Close Before You Doze program, the fire safety videos are available through Underwriters Laboratories Fire Safety Research Institute. You can find them at fsri. org.

Once the “oohing” and “wowing” over the fire safety video had subsided, Rich also told city council members the UFA’s current, 16-week firefighter training course began with 33 recruits in February and will continue until June.

“This is a very rigorous course; but by the time recruits are placed in it, they have been thoroughly screened and we don’t get a lot of dropouts,” Rich added. “Finding good employees is an ongoing battle. We only run one training course each year. But we are constantly recruiting.”

UFA training and safety standards are a very personal concern for Cochran.

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“Both my sons are firefighter/paramedics with UFA after transferring in from other agencies over the past several months,” Cochran said. “I think every parent is concerned when a child enters a field a little more on the dangerous side. But I am confident in the training my boys have received. UFA is doing a good job for Taylorsville. They have my support 110%.”

Unified Fire operates two stations in Taylorsville. The smaller of those – Station 118, just west of city hall – is one of their older, smaller stations. Meantime, spacious Station 117 on Redwood Road (4965 South) opened in 2017. It is so large, two separate fire companies operate out of it simultaneously.

Systemwide, Rich reports UFA employs 480 sworn personnel along with 53 fulltime civilians. Additionally, the agency has 80 parttime EMS employees along with 50 parttime wildland firefighters.l

This entire home was destroyed by fire except for the room behind a bedroom door, closed at the time of the blaze. (29firerescue.com)

Venerable UFA Fire Station 118 was the first structure built on the Taylorsville City campus, even before city hall. (Carl Fauver/City Journals)

Southeast Taylorsville residents relaunch their District 3A Community Council

By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com

Community councils have been a hit-andmiss proposition in Taylorsville for nearly as long as the city has been around. In theory, each of the city’s five council districts could have two community councils. None of them do. In fact, until last month, only two of the five council districts even had a single community council.

That newest council – the third across Taylorsville – is actually a “resurrection” rather than something brand new. It’s coming back in Councilwoman Anna Barbieri’s District 3. About 15 people attended Community Council 3A’s first reorganization meeting on the last day of February. They were hoping for many more than that at their second gathering (March 28, after press deadline).

“I don’t think there is any greater joy than when citizens have eyes on their homes, on their streets and on their community,” Barbieri said. “When people participate in their neighborhood, it creates a stronger community, lowers crime, makes others want to move in, increases property value and improves our lives. I think they all fit together. I am very excited residents are trying to put this community council back together.”

Community Council 3A last held regular, monthly meetings more than a decade ago, long before Barbieri was their city councilwoman. Back in 2010, 40-year Taylorsville resident Dean Paynter was the chair. But he says other issues forced him to give the chairmanship up. Not long after, the group stopped meeting.

But now – fully retired and with a little more time to spare – Paynter has decided to try, try again.

“I spoke with Anna (Barbieri) late last year about trying to get a community council going again, and she thought it was a good idea,” Paynter explained. “So, we decided to get through the holidays and then try to rekindle it early this year.”

Paynter’s “official” appointment as Community Council 3A Chair was carried out by Mayor Kristie Overson. And it wasn’t her first time to call upon his volunteerism. About a year ago, the mayor named Paynter to the city’s 5-member Citizen Advisory Board. That’s the group that reviews Taylorsville Police high-speed chases and uses of force.

“Dean has been an active community volunteer for years and years, instrumental in a number of projects,” Overson said. “He’s a great choice as chairman. Community councils bring neighborhoods together. People come to ask questions – about the city, about the school district, about the library or the senior center. Our other two active community councils have gotten a lot done.”

One of those “other two” community councils is in Councilman Earnest Burgess’ District 1, while the other is in Councilman

Curt Cochran’s District 2.

“The community council in my District meets once a month and I attend nearly all of their meetings,” Cochran said. “One of their big concerns right now is the fence along the canal road, from 4800 to 5400 South, near 1300 West. They offer input and help keep the city council focused on the issue.”

Paynter reports no particular “burning issues” arose during his group’s initial meeting. Primarily it was an introduction of the community council leadership and a question-and-answer session. But he is confident specific concerns will follow as the group continues to gather and grow.

“Rarely is anything good ever free,” Paynter concluded. “We stand on the shoulders of residents and leaders who have helped make Taylorsville a very nice place to live. All of us have an opportunity and responsibility to invest something to keep it that way.”

In addition to Barbieri, the other guest speaker at the inaugural District 3A Community Council meeting was Taylorsville Community Outreach Coordinator Jay Ziolkowski. Paynter reports “Jay Z’s” discussion focused on the city’s emergency preparedness plan and various yard and property beautification ordinances.

The secretary of the new community council is Lesley Gabbitas while its vice chair is Laddie Houck.

Houck is a 25-year veteran of the Army National Guard… a 24-year vet of the Salt Lake County Sheriffs Department where he served as a deputy (though never in Taylorsville)… and a 23-year resident of the city. He says he and Paynter had never met until Paynter called to ask him to serve as vice chair.

“Someone recommended me to him and when Dean called, I agreed with him it sounded like a good idea to reestablish the

community council,” Houck said. “If people want change or improvements in their neighborhood, they need to be involved. There’s no point in griping about property tax notices after they arrive. You need to be aware of what’s going on ahead of time. I’m glad Dean asked me to help.”

Both Paynter and Houck admit to being a bit disappointed in the turnout at their first community council meeting. After handing out some 1,600 handbill announcements to homes and businesses in their district, fewer than 1% of that many people came out (about 12 to 15). But they are confident word will spread.

Overson added Taylorsville residents may underestimate just how much clout an active and vocal community council can have.

“In District 2, members of the community council were instrumental in raising the issue of a sound wall being needed along Redwood Road,” she said. “That was an expensive project. But because they kept raising it as a safety and beautification need, eventually it got done. That council has also been very active in getting improvements at Vista Park. Meantime, the other community council was very involved in the improvements made at Cabana Park. I think residents who become active in this new community council will also be pleased with the results they see.”

The next District 3A Community Council meeting is scheduled for 6:00 pm, Tuesday April 25, in room 102 at Bennion Jr. High School.

If you live in a part of Taylorsville not currently represented by a community council – and that is most of the city – you can contact your city council member to learn more or to volunteer to help launch a new group.l

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Secretary Lesley Gabbitas, Chairman Dean Paynter and Vice Chair Laddie Houck (L-R) call the first meeting of the “re-establishing” Community Council 3A to order. (Courtesy Anna Barbieri)

Surrogate ‘big brother’ Al Sprouse has employed five sisters a total of well over a century

By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com

His legions of former little league and high school football players like to call their ex-coach “The Big Man.” But five sisters prefer “The Big Brother we never had.” Either way, Al Sprouse, 81, is approaching retirement with more fans than he ever had years ago while playing football for BYU.

“Al’s the kind of guy who would give you the shirt off his back.”

“He’s very caring, very understanding –willing to do anything to help you out.”

“Al’s devoted; he watches out for us. He’s a good person and a good boss. If he wasn’t, I would not have been here this many years.”

Those are just some of the things Sprouse’s “surrogate younger sisters” have to say about the owner of Durfey’s Dry Cleaners, out on the far west edge of Taylorsville, bordering the Kearns Township (5455 S. 4015 West). The first of the five sisters he hired came on board more than a half-century ago in 1972. Except for a brief break, she’s been there ever since.

We’ll come back to that first hire, Ruth, in a moment. To better understand Sprouse, you really need to dig a decade further – back to when fresh-faced President John F. Kennedy was in the White House and no one had ever heard of The Beatles outside Liverpool and Hamburg, Germany.

“I grew up in Virginia and graduated high school in 1962,” Sprouse begins his story. “I began dating Carolyn when we were in ninth grade. We were married 57 years before she passed away in 2020. I had no ties to Utah – but moved out here to play football at BYU.”

Al first attended then-Ricks College in Rexburg to get his grades up for a year and to play freshman football. After that, he was a BYU Cougar while storied coach LaVell Edwards was still an assistant in the program.

Rather than completing his college degree, Sprouse went out to find work in the late 1960s. To that point in his life, he had no idea he would end up in the dry-cleaning business. That just happened to be one of the doors he pulled, back when people wore out shoes, rather than computer mouses, looking for work.

“There were five Durfey’s Dry Cleaners back then, including the first one I entered in American Fork,” Sprouse explained. “They hired me as a driver, but out of their Kearns store – the one I own now. I worked for Haws Durfey for a couple of years… Carolyn and I moved up to Kearns from Utah County in 1969… and I purchased the cleaners in 1971.”

Which brings us back to Ruth – one of five Leivick sisters Sprouse has employed. She was actually the very first employee he ever hired – and still works full time at Durfey’s today.

None of the six Leivick sisters still go by that last name. They range in age now from 76 (Ruth Hodges) to 65 (Judy, the only Leivick sister who’s never worked for Sprouse). The four in between are Susan Didas (she works very little at the cleaners now), Diana Bird (manager for the past 35 years), Nancy Beagley and Arla Guild (each now part time, normally only called in for “emergencies”).

“We were always looking for good, dependable employees when we first started out,” Sprouse continued. “Ruth came in 1972 and we hired her on the spot. Later, when someone would leave, Ruth would suggest one of her sisters for a job. Then another, and another. All the Leivick sisters were and are great employees. They had learned to press clothing at home. You have to give their mother so much credit. She raised such loyal, hard workers.”

“My husband was out on strike (at Kennecott Utah Copper) in 1972 and we needed money,” Hodges added. “Al hired me the day I walked in. I left for just a few months soon after that. But I have been mostly fulltime here since 1973.”

The strong bond between Sprouse and the Leivick sisters started early and has only grown over the past half century. The list of things Sprouse has done for them – over and above what a boss normally does for employees – is staggering, including:

• Purchasing a trailer for one of the sisters

• Buying parts for a broken washing machine

• Helping install a new roof and siding at one of their homes

• Fixing a water heater at another house

• Plowing their driveways with the blade on his truck

• Giving them generous Christmas bonuses, whether they were full or part time In other words, Sprouse has played the role of loving “big brother” to one Leivick

sister or another since Richard Nixon was recording conversations in the Oval Office.

In addition to the relationships he’s built with the sisters, Sprouse also formed strong bonds with the Ute Conference youth football players he coached for some 20 years. In his earliest years volunteering in the league, Sprouse coached Dean Paynter for two seasons.

Fifty years later, Paynter is now a member of the Taylorsville Citizen Advisory Board, the five-member panel that meets monthly to review high-speed chases and uses of force involving city police officers. He’s also just been named chairman of a community council now being reestablished in his neighborhood.

“Al was such a beloved little league coach,” Paynter said. “All of his players called him the ‘Big Man.’ In the fall of my Kearns High School senior year (1972) we won the state football title. Al was not an official coach then – but he did come to our games. He coached so many of us in youth football that we ran to him for advice when we came off the field.”

Sprouse says it was no accident Dean Paynter ended up on his little league football team.

“Back in those days I was still driving our dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery truck all around Kearns,” Sprouse explained. “When I saw big boys or fast boys out playing, I recruited them. I’d ask if they’ve ever played little league football or would like to. Of all the boys on that 1972 Kearns High School championship team, I had coached all of them but six on my Ute Conference teams.”

Sprouse says Paynter was one of the best players he ever coached – a varsity starter at KHS and an All-State offensive and defensive tackle two years running. Like Sprouse, Paynter went on to play at BYU.

“Everyone in high school called Dean ‘Duck,’” Sprouse said. “I gave him that nickname because when I recruited him, Dean was wearing an Oregon Ducks T-shirt.”

Uh… thanks, Coach?

After his 20 years of Ute Conference coaching, eventually Sprouse was hired as an assistant coach at Kearns High. He was in that role when the Kearns Cougars won a second state football title in 1989.

In addition to the five sisters who still work, at least once in a while, at Durfey’s Dry Cleaners, there’s a next generation coming through.

Manager Bird’s niece, Dorothy Carlisle, has worked there 11 years in two different stints. Another Dorothy – Diana’s daughter, Dorothy Bird – worked there years ago. And Guild’s son, Bill Hensley, is now full time there as the chief repairman for all the cleaning equipment. He’s also talking with Sprouse about purchasing the business someday.

“I promised the girls I would keep operating the business as long as any of them needed a job,” Sprouse concluded. “I also like the idea of selling it to Bill to keep it in the family. I don’t think he’s ready yet. There’s a lot to running a business he still needs to learn. But I’m working with him and we’re talking about it.”

“Al is a real good boss who cares so much about his employees,” Hensley said. “That’s why most of those who work here stay for so many years. That’s the kind of boss I want to be. Sometimes Al acts like he wants to sell NOW. But he never sells anything; so we’ll see.”

Whenever he does finally choose to leave Durfey’s Dry Cleaners for good, Sprouse will leave behind a handful of surrogate sisters whose lives he has improved for decades. And beyond them, some 20 years’ worth of Ute Conference football players also still hold a warm place in their heart for “The Big Man.” l

Al Sprouse (2nd from left) has owned Durfey’s Dry Cleaners on the west edge of Taylorsville more than half a century.

Durfey’s Dry Cleaners has been a quiet, unassuming Taylorsville business for decades. (Carl Fauver/ City Journals)

Granite District bus drivers recognized for School Bus Driver Appreciation Day

By Peri Kinder | Peri.k@thecityjournals.com

Lorelei

White’s day starts at 4 a.m. and by 5:50 she’s on her way to pick up the first students on her school bus route. She loves every minute of it.

It takes a special temperament to be a school bus driver. Dealing with a bus full of kids, plus Utah weather, road construction and other drivers requires a thick skin, resilience and courage. That’s why Granite School District wants to ensure its bus drivers feel appreciated.

White started driving for Granite in August 2020 after training during the summer to receive her Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Since then, she’s developed a true love for her job. She decorates her bus for the seasons and holidays and gets to know the students she transports every day.

“The kids are the best part,” she said. “I just love working with different schools and having different students. It’s a split shift, so I can do stuff in the middle of the day. I have days off and if I choose I can take the summer off. It fits with my schedule.”

On School Bus Driver Appreciation Day (Feb. 22), a huge snowstorm hit the Wasatch Front, canceling classes across Salt Lake County and postponing the drivers’ open house. But David Gatti, Granite School District director of transportation, wanted to

make sure his drivers still had a day of recognition and gratitude for their hard work.

“We love our drivers,” Gatti said. “They’re great human beings who come in and work hard for us all the time. Even when the rest of the world sometimes gets the day off, a lot of times they have to be in. Even if it’s a snow day.”

District officials held an appreciation reception for school bus drivers one morning before driving their routes. With 180 drivers, 142 daily routes (plus extra events like games and field trips), Gatti said the district takes care of its people but is always looking for new drivers.

There are several open spots for school

bus drivers and the district offers free training, plus pays them to train for their CDL. Anyone interested can call Gatti at 801-8791255 for more information.

“You need to like kids and the rest we can help you with. As long as you like kids, we can teach you all the different parts of driving a school bus,” he said. “The school bus driver shortage is one of the biggest shortages related to education. For us, getting them in is important but keeping them in is more important. It’s an interestingly stressful job.”

White said her biggest challenge is finding a place for a bathroom break, especially during field trips, but it always works out. Road construction can also be an issue with having to find a detour on the fly.

Even Gatti gets behind the wheel when needed. He’s driven 150 times during the last two years to make up for being short-staffed. But people are starting to apply again. White heartily encourages people to look into school bus driving as a career.

“The office staff is great,” she said. “I’ve always felt supported. When I have questions I can go in and ask. The schools are great to work with. Most of the administration and teachers I’ve worked with have been really good and helpful.”l

Taylorsville’s JROTC Color Guard Team participate in Purple Heart ceremony

By Peri Kider | peri.k@thecityjournals.com

Members of the Taylorsville High School Junior ROTC Color Guard Team were on hand at a Purple Heart ceremony at the Utah State Capitol on Feb. 21 where U.S. Sen. Mitt Romney awarded the Purple Heart to recipient Corporal Brian Hood.

The THS JROTC presented the U.S. and Utah flags and opened the ceremony with the pledge of allegiance. The team consisted of cadets Marianne Burg, Allyson Romney, Peter Carlson and Alex Vu.

“We consider that particular group our A team,” said LTC (USA Ret) Jeff Dula, THS JROTC Senior Army Instructor. “That color guard is made up of our senior cadets and they’re very polished. Mitt Romney recognized them. He came up and had a photo shoot with everybody and it was pretty cool.”

With more than 100 active members, the THS Army ROTC is the only one left in the valley. They are often called on to present colors at events on weekends and weeknights, which can be time-consuming for instructors and students.

“It’s geared to help students to become better citizens and be successful, not necessarily to join the military, although they have that option,” Dula said. “We do more color guards in this ROTC program than probably the whole state combined. It’s an established program and we have several color guard teams…People just know Taylorsville shows up and does a good job.” l

Granite District School Board President Nicole McDermott (left) and Granite school bus driver Colleen Spratt attend an open house celebrating School Bus Driver Appreciation Day. (Photo courtesy of Granite School District)

From left, Taylorsville High JROTC cadets Marianne Burg and Allyson Romney, join Purple Heart recipient Corporal Brian Hood and U.S. Sen Mitt Romney, along with THS JROTC cadets Peter Carlson and Alex Vu at the Utah State Capitol. (Photo courtesy of THS JROTC)

do the same. Girls’ high school wrestling was established. And I was asked to help coach.”

Come on – a “hmmm” or even a “wow” is floating in the back of your head right now.

Fowers had been a school crossing guard about 15 years before becoming the program supervisor in Taylorsville. She’s helped cross kids at every crosswalk the eleven schools have – about 30 of them. Right now, she has 32 crossing guards working under her. It’s a lot of pressure for a parttime gig, because every one of those crosswalks must be staffed, morning and afternoon, every school day.

“My guards have emergencies come up –or they get sick at the last minute – and I have to fill those slots,” Fowers said. “I have a substitute crossing guard list – but it doesn’t have as many names on it as I’d like. Of course, I can also go out to a crosswalk myself, and often do. But if my subs have all been asked – and I am already going to a crosswalk – then the police department has to send one of its regular officers to do it.”

Fowers says that doesn’t occur often –calling out a regular, sworn police officer to cover a crosswalk – but it happens. That’s why Taylorsville Mayor Kristie Overson went to bat for Chyrelle in one of her recent reports to the Taylorsville City Council.

“We are fully staffed now; but we are looking for a few more substitute crossing guards,” Overson told the council. “They are always looking for a few more qualified subs. Cross-

ing guards provide a great value. They keep our school kids safe.”

City Councilwoman Anna Barbieri agrees, Taylorsville crossing guards may be overlooked by most of us – but they can be critically important to any given school kid on any given day.

“What a joyful job; what a difference you can make in a child’s life,” Barbieri said. “If a student has a rough day – and has a frown or a worried look when they reach the crosswalk –that guard might say just the right thing to make them feel better. What a great thing.”

Maryann Hagblom is one of a few Taylorsville crossing guards who routinely pull double duty. Each school day morning and afternoon she helps kids cross the busy streets outside Bennion Jr. High (2700 W. 6200 South) first, then she shifts a few blocks east to do the same outside Calvin Smith Elementary (2200 W. 6200 South).

“I’ve worked as a crossing guard about five years,” Hagblom said. “I enjoy seeing and helping the kids. And I also appreciate the extra money.”

Crossing guards are on duty 30-40 minutes a shift and earn $15.50. Because they cover a morning and afternoon shift, that’s $31 dollars a day – for less than 90 minutes of work. Of course, just like mail carriers or football players, crossing guards are required to show up and do their duty, no matter what Mother Nature is dishing out.

“Snow is not as bad as heavy rain or, even worse, high winds,” Hagblom concluded. “I’ve

been much colder in 40 degrees with wind rather than 20 degrees and snow. But either way, if the kids are here, I will be, too.”

In addition to the weather, drivers also create challenges.

“It can sometimes be dangerous, because drivers don’t pay enough attention and they often don’t slow down,” Fowers added. “I have never been hit by a car. But there have been a few close calls. Since I have been crossing guard supervisor, only one of my guards has been hit – in the hand.”

Fowers reports one of their biggest problems is drivers turning right who roll up into and across the crosswalk. Primarily, she says drivers just need to pay closer attention when they enter a school zone.

to become a substitute crossing guard on the city’s website (taylorsvilleut.gov). Applicants are interviewed and background checked before being hired.

“When we hire someone, first we take them through a Power Point presentation,” Fowers concluded. “It runs about 90 minutes, going through dangers and problems to look for, rules and requirements, when and where to show up, what to wear and what equipment to bring (spoiler alert: hand-held stop sign, traffic cone and fluorescent yellow vest).”

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Overall, Fowers reports there is not a lot of turnover among her fulltime crossing guards. But they are always in need of a few more substitutes. She considers her job an “exciting challenge.” Perhaps not unlike competing or coaching in a relatively new sport – say, girls’ wrestling. l

BE A MEDICAL HERO! JOIN A STUDY TODAY.

NASH - NON-ALCOHOLIC FATTY LIVER:

This study is for men and women who are 18 to 80 years old, you must be able to sign and understand informed consent. You must have Cirrhosis due to NASH. This is defined as having either a historical liver biopsy within 180 days, or if it’s been longer we will do a fibro scan to determine if you have Cirrhosis.

CRISTCOT - ULCERATIVE COLITIS:

This study is for males or non-pregnant, non-lactating females 18 years and older who have a confirmed diagnosis of Ulcerative Colitis. Participants must be having an active flare-up of Ulcerative Colitis of the rectum in order to participate.

BATURA AVILLION ASTHMA:

PFIZER CHILD LYME DISEASE VACCINE:

The BATURA Study is now enrolling participants 12 years and older for an asthma research study.

You may qualify for this clinical research study if you:

• Are 12 years of age and older*

• Have had a clinical diagnosis of asthma by a healthcare professional

• Are actively using short-acting beta-agonist inhalers (as-needed rescue inhaler, such as albuterol) to control or reduce asthma symptoms, alone or in combination with either low-dose inhaled corticosteroid (Flovent® , Pulmicort® , or Asmanex®) or leukotriene inhibitor montelukast (Singulair), zileuton (Zyflo®), or zafirlukast (Accolate®)

• Meet additional study criteria

This study is for children 12 years and older who have a diagnosis of Asthma from a prescribing healthcare provider. We will need documentation of diagnosis from medical records or a letter from your child’s physician. You must be capable of signing and understanding the eICF (including assent with parental/legal guardian consent for children ages 12 - 17 years old). Your child must be actively using a SABA (short-acting beta antagonist) alone or SABA on a background of either low-dose ICS (inhaled corticosteroids) or a LTRA (Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists such as Accolate, Montelukast, Singulair, and Zafirlukast. This study is 52 weeks long with 8 virtual visits. You will get paid $50 for each completed visit, and you will make a total of $400 for the study. You and or your child will be required to use the Science 37 app, which can be downloaded on your phone.

*Parental consent is required for individuals under 18 years of age.

This study is for healthy children or children that have stable pre-existing chronic medical conditions. This is a study for children 5 to 17 years old. Children and their parents must be able to attend all appointments and phone calls. This study is 2 years long; there are 6 clinic visits and you will get paid $116 for each, as well as $116 for any unscheduled visits. There are 2 phone calls, and you will get $25 (parents or guardians will get this money) for each of those phone calls, and there is a weekly ediary that you will get paid $10 for upon completion. Parents will get $87.75 for any TeleHealth visits. This study is a 4-dose series; you will get your first 3 doses at your first appointment, your next dose during month 2 and month 3, and then your last dose at 18 months.

This research study is enrolling. Learn more.

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BATURA Asthma Study Flyer_V3_09722

No matter what the weather, if school is in session – and students are walking to and from – Taylorsville Police Department crossing guards bundle up, grab their stop signs and show up for duty. (Carl Fauver/ City Journals)

Grizzlies head into final month of the season pushing for playoff position

TheUtah Grizzlies season has come down to the home stretch. April is the final month of the regular season and playoffs are right around the corner.

Their season record currently has them in ninth place in the Western Conference of the ECHL. They are only four points behind the sixth-place team, the Kansas City Mavericks. They hosted the Mavericks March 1012 in a home series at the Maverik Center. The Grizzlies have dominated the Mavericks this season defeating them five times in six games.

The Grizzlies have scored points in nine of their last 11 games. This run has pushed them toward a possible playoff position. During the run, they scored 47 goals. On March 10, forward Cameron Wright scored the game-winning goal 14 minutes into the final period to secure the 2-1 victory. Utah goalie Lukas Parik saved 22 of the 23 shots he faced.

The Maverik Center hosted the Stanley Cup during the March 11 game. As an affiliate of the 2022 NHL champions, the Grizzlies earned the opportunity for its fans to see the historic trophy.

The Stanley Cup was first awarded in 1892. It is given to the champion of the National Hockey League. Last season, the

By Greg James | g.james@mycityjournals.com

Colorado Avalanche beat the Tampa Bay Lightning four games to two to capture the championship. It is the oldest trophy that can be won by North American athletes. The oldest trophy in the world is the Carlisle Bells dating back to 1559. They are given to the winner of a horse race held in Great Britain.

Rookie Cameron Wright leads the team in scoring with 19 goals. He leads the league with eight game-winning goals. He also leads the team with 43 points and the league’s rookies with 200 shots. Tarun Fizer has 18 goals.

All Grizzlies games can be streamed on flohockey.tv and the team’s YouTube channel.

The Grizzlies are the ECHL affiliate of the Colorado Avalanche. There are 28 teams in the league and they play 72 game schedules.

Goalie Garrett Metcalf, a Utah hockey celebrity, is part of the current team roster. He has played in 13 games this season and recorded seven wins. He also has a .888 save percentage. He is in his third season with the team.

Over the past 24 years, the Grizzlies have finished the season with a .500 winning percentage or better 19 times. Over 200 former players have played in the NHL.

The Grizzlies’ final homestand of the

season is scheduled for April 12-15 against the Tulsa Oilers.

The Idaho Steelheads have the best re-

cord in the league. They have won 44 games this season so far. Last season, Florida defeated Toledo to win the ECHL championship.l

The Utah Grizzlies hosted the Stanley Cup as an affiliate of the 2022 NHL champion Colorado Avalanche. Utah fans were able to take photos of the historic trophy. (Photo courtesy of the Utah Grizzlies)

Springtime Draws City’s Focus to Water Conservation, Waterwise Planting

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

With the record snowfall these past few months, we are employing the Boy Scout motto to “always be prepared.” So, while we should not be overly concerned and certainly not panicked, we do want to prepare for the possibility of ooding this spring as temperatures warm and the snow melts.

You can nd excellent mitigation tips from Be Ready Utah (online at beready.utah.gov), which advises prevention steps such as maintaining water runo and drainage around your home including cleaning gutters and storm drains, improving lot grading, installing a rain barrel and reducing impervious surfaces. Consider, for instance, that water runs o concrete and asphalt almost immediately and can exceed capacity of storm drains quickly during heavy precipitation. Installing rain gardens, vegetated swales or pervious pavements, which allow more water to be absorbed into the ground, can help.

Salt Lake County also has some outstanding resources regarding potential spring runoff, the snowpack and current stream data. That information, including interactive mapping, can be found online at slcoem.org. Salt Lake County Emergency Management is currently operating under an “enhanced watch” status for possible ooding.

In that regard, the county’s Public Works department held a two-day sandbagging event this past month where individuals and groups could volunteer to ll sandbags. Volunteers may also contact Salt Lake County Flood Control at 1-385-468-6600 for other opportunities to help, or telephone our own City Hall at 801-963-5400. We are gathering names and contact information from individuals or groups willing to be recontacted if we have emergency need of volunteers.

As Gov. Spencer Cox warned in his monthly news conference this past month, ooding is the No. 1 disaster risk in Utah. He issued an executive order granting state employees of executive branch agencies paid time to volunteer for ood mitigation. The governor also advised to keep children away from fast-moving water, remember not to drive in ooded streets and listen to weather alerts when storms are coming, especially if you’re outdoors.

We learned a great deal from the snowmelt and runo 40 years ago, in 1983, when our state experienced extreme ooding and even saw a river of water owing down State Street. We all came together then to prevent disaster, and I know we will do so again if needed.

I am grateful for the e orts of our community and individuals always willing to help. Because of this, I am not afraid, and I know that we will be prepared to handle any situation.

—Mayor Kristie S. Overson

With spring now here, city leaders are focused on making it easier for residents to take care of their yards and home landscapes — all while saving money and water in the process. In doing their part, they also are “ ipping the strip” at City Hall.

A new city ordinance makes taking care of parking strips in front of homes easier, too. The City Council passed the ordinance in the fall in anticipation of spring planting. The e orts are being made to help conserve water as the state faces another drought year, with low rainfall and high temperatures expected again this summer.

“We are very grateful for the record amounts of snow we received during these past winter months, but we know that will not solve the drought we are facing as a state and region,” said Mayor Kristie Overson. “So, we want to do our part to be mindful and conserve water.

“Of course, that includes all of us,” she added. “I am confident that as we come together as a city, residents and businesses of Taylorsville, we can make a di erence.”

The city’s new ordinance, No. 22-08, establishes general landscaping standards for parking strips. Under the ordinance, residents are encouraged to keep their parking strips free of weeds and use a combination of materials in lling the space, including hardscape such as gravel, rocks and boulders, vegetation and/or pedestrian pathways.

While keeping the lawn in a parking strip is still allowed, the ordinance claries that a mix of materials and vegetation typically used to design waterwise landscaping is encouraged. The hope is that the new code will “maintain community

Mayor Kristie S. Overson

EVENTS APRIL 2023

April 5 & 19 – 6:30 p.m.

City Council Meeting @ City Hall and online. Watch a livestream of the meeting on the city’s website, www.taylorsvilleut.gov

April 6 – 7 p.m.

Taylorsville Localscapes class @ City Hall. Register at www.taylorsvilleut.gov/services/localscapes

April 9 – All day Happy Easter!

April 11 – 7 p.m. & April 25 – 6 p.m. Planning Commission Meeting @ City Hall.

April 13 & 14 – 7 p.m.

“Footloose” tryouts @ City Hall. All performers, ages 15 and up, are invited to try out for the Taylorsville Arts Council production.

April 22 – All day

Earth Day. (Taylorsville’s Annual Cleanup Day, previously held on Earth Day, is set for June 10. See www.taylorsvilleut.gov for details.)

UPCOMING: May 5 – 5 p.m.

Starry Nights @the Plaza kicks o the 2023 season with the food trucks from 5 to 8:30 p.m. and local rock band De Novo playing at 6:30. (See ad on page 3).

UPCOMING: May 18 – 7 p.m.

An Evening of Art @ the Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center. Hear from artists Ben Hammond and Justin Wheatley. (See ad on Page 6).

Find our calendar of events every month on the city’s website, where you can also submit your own events for possible publication. Go to www.taylorsvilleut.gov

Demolition

of Vacant Store Makes Way for New Development

The old Kmart store at the corner of 5400 South and Bangerter Highway came tumbling down this past month to make way for a new mixed-use project, called Volta. The coming development will feature 647 residential units, swimming pools, a clubhouse, retail space and other amenities.

“It’s really exciting to see the vacant building come down and know that we’re turning a page,” said Mayor Kristie Overson, noting that the old store has been vacant for almost 11 years.

The new Volta development will be built on the 16 1/2-acre site, including just over 15 acres comprising the current shopping center and an additional acre that is the pad location on the northeast corner. The Thackeray Company, based in Salt Lake City, plans to construct at least 10,000 square feet of retail space in addition to the apartment units. The plan also calls for 996 parking stalls.

There will be four, ve-story buildings that will be 100% residential, and the front building closest to 5400 south will be a mixed-use, three-story building. The project will be built in three phases. The rst phase will be the northern portion of the project, the three buildings closest to 5400 South. Phase 2 will be the southeast quadrant of the project and the parking structure. Phase 3 will focus on the southwest quadrant.

“This is going to be something new and remarkable in Taylorsville and the Salt Lake Valley,” Mayor Overson said. “This is something we’ve been waiting for.”

COUNCIL CORNER

By Council Member Bob Knudsen

The massive winter snowstorm of Feb. 22 brought much-needed moisture for our state, but it also inconvenienced many people in regard to commuting and the necessity of clearing sidewalk paths and driveways. The storm was so substantial that many of our city neighborhood streets saw no attention from plows, as they were running constantly down the major arterial roadways.

During that time, I worked to care for my immediate needs, as well as those of neighbors around me whose health is such that they cannot safely move heavy snow. While working, I saw many more neighbors who were doing the same thing, including several who were using their ATVs, tractors, etc., all in hopes of helping their neighbors.

Seeing these actions of my immediate neighbors and knowing of so many others that were taking place in our city, which I did not see, reminds me of a quote from Fred Rogers, “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always nd people who are helping.’” When we extend help, we are able to be tools to make things a little less scary for others, those who may be unable to do something on their own. For some, the amount of snow received was scary, but many helpers made it better for those in need.

Be Kind, Engage in Service and Look for the Helpers

This spring and summer, we have more opportunities to help one another as it relates to tidying up around our area. Wasatch Front Waste & Recycling District (WFWRD) is starting their Seasonal Container Reservation Program, which took the place of the traditional “dumpster days,” where they would line our streets with dumpsters for bulk garbage. This started during the COVID-19 pandemic, as a way to continue with this service. Simply go to the WFWRD website, and you can sign up to host a dumpster in your driveway for your needs, as well as those of your neighbors. Taylorsville is the rst community to be served by this program for 2023, so make sure that if you are interested in participating or helping others, appropriate steps are taken.

In addition, our Green Committee will be hosting its Annual City Cleanup at Taylorsville High School on June 10. This gives a chance for many unusual items to be disposed of properly, including hazardous wastes such as paints or other similar items. The many volunteers including the Taylorsville High Football Team make unloading vehicles very quick. Find event details on the city’s website, social media pages or in upcoming issues of the Journal.

There are many opportunities for everyone to share and help raise up the community in which we live. From the city side, there are many opportunities to volunteer with our many citizen committees. For individual neighborhoods, there are many

WATERWISE PLANTING CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

opportunities to lift one another up through rendering service. As we see things around us develop, may we all work to be kind and seek opportunities to be a helper, one who will be there to make the world a better place. We do not have to do a grandiose act but can do so through small and simple things. Many times, the small and simple things that are done consistently over time mean more than a singular grandiose act. May we all seek to be the best friends and neighbors that we can be.

character, promote pedestrian safety and walkability, and support water conservation principles,” said city planning assistant Terryne Bergeson.

At City Hall, work to “ ip the strip” along 5400 South was expected to begin this month. The lawn in the parking strip out front, on the south-end of Centennial Plaza, will be removed and around 120 to 150 waterwise plants will be planted there and in the center median along Centennial Boulevard, said facilities manager Joey Bona. The two areas cover roughly 6,000 square feet.

Gravel and drought-tolerant grasses also will be used in the xeriscaping e ort. “The idea is to minimize some of the space that’s not necessarily used and that is a ected by tra c,” Bona said. “We want to get the water to where it should be.”

A crew of ve or six employees with the city’s landscape contractor will do the work, which is estimated to take about two weeks to complete. The new landscaping will be funded through a grant from Salt Lake County, in partnership with H20 Collective and the League of Cities and Towns. The grant, awarded to the city this past month, also will fund water conservation e orts and waterwise planting at Labrum and Vista parks.

In addition, the Green Committee will be holding a series of Localscapes classes again this spring and summer. The rst one is scheduled for April 6 from 7 to 8 p.m. at City Hall. You can register for the class at www.taylorsvilleut.gov/services/localscapes

“We want to be conscientious stewards of the environment as we continue to employ water-saving solutions,” Mayor Overson said. “We appreciate our partnerships with Taylorsville-Bennion Improvement District, the Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District and Salt Lake County for helping us to conserve water. We hope to continue to make signi cant strides in this area.”

We are excited to announce that Starry Nights @ the Plaza is returning this summer and kicks off on Friday, May 5. Food trucks will be at Centennial Plaza each Friday from 5 to 8:30 p m through September 15th. In addition to food trucks, Starry Nights events will feature free live music, outdoor movies and/or other activities every Friday evening! Look for a complete list of events in next month's journal! Bring your family or friends, along with a blanket or chair for seating, and enjoy an evening out together on the plaza!

LEFT TO RIGHT: Bob Knudsen, Chair (District 5), Curt Cochran, Vice Chair (District 2), Anna Barbieri, (District 3), Meredith Harker, (District 4) and Ernest Burgess (District 1)

Local rock band De Novo will kick off the season on May 5 @ 6:30

TVPD Demonstrates Use of Multiple STEM Tools

Check this space each month for news about the Taylorsville Police Department (TVPD) and their valuable service to our community.

TVPD joined several community education and outreach groups for Head Start’s Family Engagement Night, hosted at Taylorsville High School this past month.

Since the educational topic was STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math), TVPD showed off a number of the STEMbased tools we use on the job. Among them are speed lasers, drones, cameras, radios, Kevlar vest/plates, police shields, police vehicles and computers.

Of course, the favorite tool was the drone, which was demonstrated by TVPD drone pilot Officer List. Second favorite was the speed laser that we used at the Engagement Night to calculate how fast students could run. Running speeds ranged between 4 and 13 mph (depending on leg length).

TVPD EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

Congratulations to O cer Hood, our TVPD Employee of the Month. Prior to joining TVPD, O cer Hood served as an o cer with both the Los Angeles County Sheri ’s O ce and West Jordan Police Department.

O cer Hood has an extensive background in law enforcement. He has served in numerous positions and is an extremely well-rounded o cer. Positions he has held include patrol o cer, lead patrol shift o cer, lead shift o cer, (SWAT) Special Weapons and Tactics officer, (HRT) Hostage Rescue Team member, (VFAST) Violent Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team, (SRO) School Resource O cer, juvenile crimes detective, property crimes detective, eld training o cer, phlebotomist and peer support o cer.

O cer Hood, who holds a degree in criminal justice, is currently working as a patrol/lead o cer, a member of our SWAT team and a lead firearms instructor. He was nominated as Employee of the Month by Det. Andrew for his intervention in a violent domestic dispute that began in Taylorsville.

Det. Andrew described the overall situation as “ongoing and volatile,” involving a suspect who had a history of violent and reckless behavior. O cer Hood was made aware of the suspect’s whereabouts, which at the time was outside of Taylorsville. Additionally, it was learned that the suspect was currently engaged in another violent domestic dispute that involved a rearm.

In coordinating with the local jurisdiction, Officer Hood helped paint the full picture regarding the suspect’s overall violent criminal behavior. He was able to use his extensive training to calmly direct the needed resources in bringing about the suspect’s arrest.

In his free time, O cer Hood enjoys spending time with his family. His hobbies include camping, hiking, four-wheeling, soccer, swimming, scuba diving and traveling the world. O cer Hood is extremely approachable and humble. He is a great asset to TVPD. Thank you, O cer Hood, for your service and dedication to law enforcement and for choosing to be a part of Team Taylorsville!

Taylorsville Arts Council production

City Leaders Welcome Several New Businesses to Taylorsville

A number of Ribbon Cutting events celebrated grand openings of businesses in Taylorsville over the past few months. Among them are:

TAQUERIA MARTINI A family-owned restaurant, Taqueria Martini serves up tacos, tamales, tortas, burritos, quesadillas, carnitas and much more.

They are also open for breakfast, but co-owner Patricia Galicia says they’re especially known for their two specialty desserts, mini churros with ice cream and tiramisu. “All of our food is freshly made and delicious," she said. "We always have di erent special meals featured.”

Theirs is a true family venture owned by Galicia and her husband, Martin, whose daughters and other family members also work at the restaurant. Taqueria Martini is located at 1732 W. 5400 South.

“What a wonderful location, and you have made your restaurant so inviting and the food scrumptious,” Mayor Kristie Overson said at their grand opening in January.

Taqueria Martini is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. You can also call for takeout, 801-609-7606.

Patty Shack is open from Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

SPILL THE TEA — Drop by Spill the Tea for all kinds of specialty drinks from a smooth bubble tea to their Brown Sugar Fresh Milk, Jasmine Milk Tea, Ube Taro Horchata and more. The café is now open for business in Taylorsville at 2971 W. 4700 South.

Owner Danna Bui-Negrete says they are happy to be in the city. She and her staff also celebrated with a Ribbon Cutting, along with city officials and representatives from ChamberWest.

PATTY SHACK — “Level up your burger game with the patty daddy triple patty burger with pastrami bacon and cheese.” That’s Patty Shack’s tagline and you can now get one in Taylorsville, along with a cheeseburger, pastrami burger, fries and more.

“We are overjoyed to be here with this wonderful city,” said Bryson Singletary, who owns the restaurant with Justin Newbold and Jared Newbold.

Patty Shack is located at 1207 W. 4800 South. Along with the owners and sta , city o cials and representatives from ChamberWest celebrated the restaurant's opening in the fall.

“It was a party,” Mayor Overson said. “We enjoyed great burgers and those really good fries. We’re happy for them and wish them well in their new business.”

“We have specialty glitter drinks and specialty toppings like heartshaped toppings, star-shaped toppings,” she said. “We are about to do large, order-to-cater for local businesses or events.”

Mayor Overson commended the café on their welcoming and cozy atmosphere and friendly sta . “It is so much fun to be here,” she said. “Your drinks are delicious, and the variety of your menu is impressive.”

Spill the Tea is open Monday through Saturday, from noon to 7:30 p.m.

Read additional details and more about other new businesses opening in Taylorsville on the city’s website, www.taylorsvilleut.gov.

AN EVENING OF ART

Taylorsville Bennion Heritage REMEMBRANCES

Taylorsville Settlers were Instrumental in Sheep Industry

By Susan Yadeskie, Historic Preservation Committee Chair

Keeping a small ock of sheep was important to the Salt Lake Valley pioneers. The sheep gave them wool to weave for blankets and clothes and to spin for knitting, and they provided meat to feed their families. As stated in Utah – A Centennial history published in 1949, in the ve pioneer companies arriving in 1848, there were 654 sheep that came into the Salt Lake Valley.

By 1860, there were 37,332 mature sheep in the valley. The sheep industry would grow because of the grazing land that was abundant, especially in the high mountains. However, the territorial Legislature felt the industry was still lagging so, in 1869, legislators exempted it from taxation. In 1892, there were 2.8 million sheep in the territory!

Don’t Miss These Library Events

The Taylorsville Library has planned several programs during the month of April. You’ll want to mark your calendar for these events:

BOOK SPINE POETRY CONTEST

Monday, April 3-Saturday, April 15

Create your own poem using the titles on the spine of di erent books and email a photo of your entry. Stop by the library to pick up an entry form for speci c details. Entries due by Saturday, April 15.

TEEN FLASHLIGHT EASTER EGG HUNT

Thursday, April 6, 9:05 p.m.

Teens, join in the library’s egg hunt. Please dress for the weather, bring your ashlight and a bag. The hunt will include eggs with candy and other prizes on the grass. Registration began Wednesday, March 8.

ADULT VIRTUAL LECTURE | RMS Titanic: Hubris and Horror: Birth of the Modern Age

Tuesday, April 11, 7 p.m.

Register at: thecountylibrary.org/LectureSeries

Mark Wilkins, a curator of Maritime History, will chronicle the loss of the RMS Titanic on April 14-15, 1912, and explore the social, economic and psychological impact of this chilling event.

Taylorsville had two prominent sheep ranching families, the Harkers and the Bennions. Joseph Harker was the rst to settle “Over Jordan.” The Bennions soon followed with John Bennion building a home on the east of the Harker property and Samuel Bennion on the west side. There was not a great deal of knowledge on preserving grazing lands in the early days of sheep ranching. Their herds increased. Therefore, the Harkers and the Bennions would drive their sheep west to what is now known as Tooele County.

Homes were built in Rush Valley where the Harker and Bennion plural wives lived much of the time. The older boys of the three families would also live there and run the sheep ranches, with Joseph Harker, Samuel and John Bennion going out regularly to oversee the business. Today, there is even a monument to the Bennions in Rush Valley about 100 yards from Samuel’s original dwelling.

It is not known for certain all the breeds of sheep Taylorsville ranchers raised. Joseph Harker raised Cotswold sheep for their long coats of wool that were high producing. John Bennion writes in his journal in October 1859 of breeding his ewes with two purebred bucks, one a Southdown, developed in Sussex, England, and one a Leister, also known for their long hair. At sheering in 1930, the Rambouillet breed would yield 9.4 pounds of wool.

Farmers and ranchers would show the beauty and value of their stock at agricultural fairs. In 1856, John Bennion writes to his father-in-law and motherin-law, the Wainwrights, that “a state fair was held the rst week in October … for the rst I took in some sheep that took the prize for the best ram and ewe. … This fair created quite an interest among the people and no doubt will have a good e ect in improving agricultural and manufacturing pursuits.” In May 1894, the Salt Lake Herald, a well-known newspaper of the day, wrote in an article “Arranging for the Upcoming Fair” that the Territorial Fair was in its 21st year. The article indicated that “Joseph Harker, of Taylorsville was in the city yesterday, having brought to market 1,000 pounds of wool from his herd of thoroughbred Cotswold sheep. Some of the wool was fourteen inches long and as ne as silk. Mr. Harker is the father of the sheep industry in this territory.”

But eventually, grazing land became depleted. Much of the land was used to grow corn, alfalfa and sugar. Children and grandchildren built their homes on the Harkers, Bennions, Mackays, Butter elds, Bringhursts, and many other pioneer ranches and farms. Times change. Opportunities are di erent. However, we must never forget the industriousness of the early settlers who pave the way to the success of our home, our Taylorsville community!

POETRY MONTH: INTERACTIVE POEMS ADVENTURE

Wednesday, April 12-Tuesday, April 18

Immerse yourself in poetry. Interact with poems through touch, sound and play. Drop by the Taylorsville Branch anytime between April 12 to 18.

BEING A RENTER IN UTAH: UNDERSTANDING YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS

Monday, April 17, 6 p.m.

Get help understanding your rights as a renter. Presented by People's Legal Aid, topics include signing a lease, the eviction process, debt collection lawsuits and other legal resources.

ADULT VIRTUAL LECTURE | Shakespeare's First Folio: The 400th Anniversary

Monday, April 24, 7 p.m.

Register at: thecountylibrary.org/LectureSeries

Shakespeare's First Folio was published in 1623. Dr. Mark Matheson will highlight this achievement and the unique impact of the works of William Shakespeare on the world.

Leister Rambouillet Cotswold

APRIL UPDATES

Seasonal Container Reservation Program

The Seasonal Container Reservation Program is o cially underway! Set your reminders. Reservations open for containers on the dates below: ZONE RESERVATIONS OPEN CONTAINERS AVAILABLE

1 March 20 April 10 to 17

2 March 27 April 18 to 25

3 April 3

April 26 to May 4

Containers will be dropped o sometime between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. on the scheduled day. WFWRD staff will try to ensure that residents have up to 24 hours with the container. Driveways must be cleared, accessible and have enough room (approximately 10 feet x 20 feet) for the container to be placed o the street and public sidewalk. If the driveway is inaccessible, the container will not be delivered, and you will lose your opportunity for the container at your residence. Please visit the WFWRD website to see what is and isn’t allowed in the containers.

Practice Patience when Watering this Spring

Sometimes it’s hard to wait but waiting is a good practice in the spring when it comes to landscape watering. By delaying watering your lawn before Mother’s Day, roots will have grown deeper, and your lawn will be healthier. This delayed watering bene ts the lawn in hotter months when the surface dries out quickly, as the roots can access water deeper in the soil. So, check this handy guide for tips and remember when watering, patience is a virtue.

Recycling & Earth Day

Earth Day is coming up on April 22. Help celebrate by reducing the use of disposable plastics and recycling clean. For more information on Earth Day events and sustainable practices visit: www.earthday.org. To help residents of the district practice clean recycling habits, WFWRD has recycling guides that can be found on their website. For recycling tips and to nd the answers to your recycling questions, use the QR code or follow WFWRD on Instagram (@wasatchfrontwaste).

The event will provide job seekers with a unique opportunity to connect with 85+ top employers in various industries, and explore job openings in their desired field. Attendees can expect to meet with HR representatives and hiring managers.

There is NO COST to participate. Job seekers are encouraged to bring multiple copies of their resume, dress professionally, and come prepared to network and learn about potential job opportunities.

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.

NASCAR driver comes to Salt Lake with fundraiser ride

By Greg James | g.james@mycityjournals.com

Former NASCAR driver and racing analyst Kyle Petty will travel through the Beehive State as part of one of the most popular charity motorcycle rides in the United States. The 27th anniversary of the Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America will kick off in Salt Lake City on April 29 and return on May 5.

Petty will lead over 125 riders on a seven-day trek covering 1,500 miles. The ride is an effort to raise money and awareness for Victory Junction, a camp dedicated to providing life-changing camping experiences for young children with chronic medical conditions.

“Nevada and Utah are two of my favorite states to ride motorcycles in,” Petty said. “The desert, red rocks and mountain terrain paint vivid and breathtaking scenes. Our riders are in for a picturesque treat.”

The motorcycle ride will begin in Salt Lake on Saturday, April 29, and head to Ely, Nevada. From Ely, they will travel to Tonopah and then to Las Vegas, Cedar City, Moab and back to Salt Lake.

The trip’s highlights include visiting Bonneville Salt Flats, lapping the track at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, scenic highways through Capitol Reef National Park and Legends Motorcycle Museum.

“I consider myself extremely blessed to be able to ride this incredible route while also

raising money to send kids to Victory Junction. The ride allows me to combine my passions for helping others and motorcycles,” Petty said.

Victory Junction is located in the hills near Greensboro, North Carolina. The facility is op-

erated year round and at no cost to the families. They offer summer camps, day camps and family camps.

Celebrities scheduled to participate in this year’s ride include NASCAR hall of famer

Richard Petty, racing legends Ken Schrader and Kenny Wallace, former Formula 1 driver Max Papis and NFL great Herschel Walker.

“Any chance I get to spend a week out West, I’m taking it,” Kyle’s father Richard Petty said in a press release. “Add riding motorcycles to that and helping the kids at Victory Junction is like putting a cherry on top. That is why I always look forward to Kyle’s ride every year.”

Since the ride began in 1995 more than 8,000 riders have participated and have raised more than $20 million for the charity.

Every year the fundraiser is held in a different location. The ride began when Petty and three friends rode their bikes from North Carolina to a NASCAR race in Phoenix. Friends joined them as they traveled across the country and when they arrived more than 30 riders had participated. He decided this could turn into something more.

The charity Petty founded was made to honor his late son Adam. He was killed in a car racing accident in preparation for an event in New Hampshire. He was 19 years old. He was the fourth generation Petty family member to race in NASCAR.

The ride and events will be documented on social media, the foundation’s Facebook page, and Instagram.l

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Open House Meetings

Kyle Petty has turned his love for motorcycles into an opportunity to raise money for children to attend summer camps. (Photo courtesy of Kevin Kane Photography)

Granite School District is currently conducting a population analysis study in your area - Cyprus, Kearns, and Hunter Networks.

You are invited to attend one of our open house meetings that will provide detailed information on what is being studied. The end result of this study is anticipated boundary adjustments and potential elementary school closures. Your participation and feedback is a helpful and necessary part of this process.

WHETHER

First, robots came for assembly line workers. Then they came for agricultural and warehouse jobs. Then a cyborg assassin time-traveled from 2029 to 1984 to kill Sarah Connor. What will artificial intelligence target next?

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Peri Kinder

Life and Laughter

Rage Against the Machine

came chatbots, or virtual assistants, like Siri, who learned to answer our stupid questions with a bit of sass.

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I’m mixing movie metaphors, but if Sarah Connor’s interactions with the Terminator taught us anything, it’s that we control our own destiny. Can we unite robotic efficiency and humanity? The fate of journalism could hang in the balance.