Taylorsville Journal | July 2023

JAKE ROMERO IS A RISING STAR IN UTAH’S GROWING, COMPETITIVE WORLD OF… STEAK BARBEQUING

By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com

What’s

handy about writing a story about your next-door neighbor’s unusual pastime is, you don’t have to go far to get the interview. It starts in the driveway:

“Whatcha up to this weekend, Jake?”

“We’re loading up the camp trailer to drive to my next steak cookoff.”

“Oh – going someplace secluded to barbeque – that’s nice.”

“Well, this is actually a competition. I’m trying to earn my way back into the Steak Cookoff World Championship in Texas.”

“The what?! Never mind – will you come over when you get back, so we can talk about it more? I think I smell a story.”

“Tell you what Carl – I’ll come over, if you mow down that ridiculous sea of dandelions in your front yard!”

Three days later – after the neighbor on the other side tamed the rough waters of my dandelion sea (funny, they both hate them – but those yellow, “mini-flowers” have never bothered me) – Jake Romero dropped over to introduce me to the Steak Cookoff Association (SCA, for those in the know steakcookoffs.com).

“My best friends Luisa Alfonso and Casey

Casper introduced me to SCA competitions and my first one was in October 2020 in Las Vegas,” Romero explained. “Eventually, I qualified for the World Championship in Texas and attended it in March 2022. I was qualified for this year’s event; but we couldn’t go because that’s when our baby was born. And I am already qualified for the Texas finals next spring. In total, I have had 45 steaks judged since I started competing.”

Romero’s fiancé Sydnee joins him for nearly all of the competitions; and new son Austin (born March 14) has also been to a few. Not enough teeth yet, though, to sample Dad’s award-winning fare.

“Sydnee loves to help out,” Romero added. “She hands me seasonings. But only the competitors are actually allowed to do anything with the meat.”

Ah yes… like any competition, there are as many rules as my lawn had dandelions.

“I have only ever cooked ribeye steaks; but there are competitions for ribs, chicken or many different ancillaries (jalapeno poppers, wings, desserts, etc.),” Romero added. “Com-

Continued page 20

Jake Romero and fiancé Sydnee made their way down to Texas last year for the Steak Cookoff World Championship outside Dallas. (Courtesy Jake Romero)

Do You Have a Chronic Wound?

If you have a wound that has been open for more than 4 weeks, then something in your body is not allowing that wound to heal properly. Chronic wounds are defined as wounds that fail to proceed through the normal phases of wound healing in an orderly and timely manner. Often, chronic wounds stall in the inflammatory phase of healing.

How do you heal a wound that will not heal?

Debridement (removal of dead tissue) is the most common treatment for stubborn wounds, and involves the removal of unhealthy tissue within a chronic wound to promote the growth of healthy tissue, reduce complications of infection, and speed up the healing process.

Your care team may also suggest the following treatments:

• Antibiotics

• Skin substitute grafts

• Laser Treatments

• X-rays to assess for bone infection

• Scans to ensure proper blood flow is getting to the wound to promote healing

Visit Innovation Medical Group today to get a wound care specialist to help guide your care plan and to get your life back without a chronic wound present. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 801-758-2091. We are located at 4624 Holladay Blvd on the second floor in Suite 201 right above Olympus Family Medicine. We accept all major insurances and look forward to being able to enhance your quality of life.

New $100,000 grant awarded to SLCC will expand the school’s Building Automation Systems program

By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com

Salt Lake Community College has just received a $100,000 grant – with the opportunity to renew it for three more years, which would increase the total gift to $400,000 – from an international company that touts itself as “a world leader in smart buildings, (that creates) safe, healthy and sustainable spaces.”

Johnson Controls is awarding $15,000 in equipment to the Taylorsville-based school, along with $85,000 in, essentially, scholarship funding.

Dr. Jenni Abbott completed the grant request last spring. She is SLCC’s Assistant Vice President of Workforce Training & Education, within the school’s Workforce & Economic Development Division.

“We are very excited about this grant because it will allow us to revise and expand our building automations program curriculum,” Abbott said. “Johnson Controls actually reached out to us, suggesting we apply for the grant. Since 2021, the company has provided $100,000 grants to ten different schools, per year, all across the country. I am confident we will be able to do what’s necessary to renew the grant for three more years, increasing our total Johnson Controls award to $400,000.”

The first-year grant funding is expected to allow Salt Lake Community College to train 30 additional students.

“My Workforce Training & Education Department is not focused on our students who are earning associate degrees,” Abbott added. “Instead, we are helping people earn skills-based training certificates to allow them to move quickly into the workforce. We will target this grant funding on drawing more students directly out of high school. We will also concentrate our re-

Jou r nals

TAYLORSVILLE TEAM

The Taylorsville Journal is a monthly publication distributed directly to residents via the USPS as well as locations throughout Cottonwood Heights.

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cruiting on underprivileged populations.”

The phrase “smart buildings” essentially means making use of the latest hightech, computerized equipment to assist the structures in heat, air conditioning and water conservation.

“We look forward to putting this grant to good use and truly appreciate the support from Johnson Controls in helping our students successfully prepare for meaningful and worthwhile jobs in these fast-growing industries, especially in Utah,” SLCC President Deneece G. Huftalin added.

According to their website (slcc.edu/ workforce-training), SLCC’s Workforce Training & Education Department serves

about 2,200 students each year, offering instruction in 60 different programs “designed to lead to entry-level employment (and to) upskill (students).” Their many programs include: Advanced Manufacturing Career Training, Energy Career Training, IT & Computer Applications Training and Warehousing & Logistics Career Training.

For its part, Johnson Controls is proud to add Taylorsville’s SLCC to its growing list of grant recipients.

“Not only are we investing in the next generation of workforce leaders, but the mentoring associated with this initiative reminds our employees why we do what we

do,” Julie Brandt said, president of Building Solutions North America at Johnson Controls. “We’re looking at our future and through partnership with these colleges, we’re all contributing to a better supported trades industry.”

The grant funding is expected to help train students for jobs in the building automation sector, including HVAC, fire and security industries. Job analysts report demand for skilled workers in this industry are high, with an estimated 10,000 trade professionals projected to leave or retire from that workforce each year over the next decade.

The school’s $100,000 grant announcement even drew attention on Utah’s Capitol Hill.

“This is wonderful news for Salt Lake Community College and for Utah,” Gov. Spencer Cox said. “This grant will continue to keep our economy robust as it helps prepare and train students for well-paying, high-demand workforce jobs. This not only benefits students, but ultimately our employers along the Wasatch Front.”

Johnson Controls describes itself as “the global leader in smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, with a proud history of nearly 140 years of innovation.” The company now has “a global team of 100,000 experts in more than 150 countries.”

Salt Lake Community College is Utah’s largest two-year college, educating students in 8 areas of study at 10 locations and online. The majority of SLCC graduates transfer to four-year institutions, while thousands more are trained in direct-to-workforce programs. This year, SLCC is celebrating 75 years of providing Utahns with education and training. l

PUBLISHER

Bryan Scott | bryan.s@thecityjournals.com

EDITOR

Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

Mieka Sawatzki | mieka.s@thecityjournals.com

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Ryan Casper | ryan.c@thecityjournals.com

Kayla Palmer | kayla.p@thecityjournals.com

Greg Tanner | greg.t@valuepagesutah.com

CIRCULATION

A world leader in creating “smart buildings,” Johnson Controls has provided a $100,000 grant to Salt Lake Community College. (Photo courtesy SLCC)

With a little financial help from Uncle Sam – along with lots of private donations

Kearns-based Friends of the Children Utah is thriving

Aprogram to assist kids in need – born three decades ago up in the Pacific Northwest –found a most inopportune time to make its way into Utah. But despite its challenging launch, Friends of the Children Utah is now thriving –bursting at the seams, to be more accurate.

“Friends of the Children Utah opened in Kearns (5361 S. 4220 West, Suite B) in March 2020 – the same time everything went into (coronavirus) lockdown across the country,” Executive Director Kelsey Lewis said. “But after serving only nine Utah kids that year, we are now up to serving 61 youth and their families.”

Lewis herself was not yet in the picture for that Utah beginning. She was hired into the organization last winter, bringing 28 years of experience serving our state’s most vulnerable children and families. A University of Utah graduate – with degrees in Sociology and Women’s Studies – Lewis says she was sold on Friends of the Children because of the longrange approach the organization takes to helping kids.

“Our slogan or motto is ‘12+ years, no matter what,’” Lewis explains. “That means we are committed to helping kids for the long haul. We enroll children into our program when they are about kindergarten age, 4 to 6. From there, our mentors, called ‘friends,’ nurture them through high school.”

At least that’s how it’s being done in other states. With only three years under their belts here, the oldest of the 61 youth now in the Utah program are age 9.

Each youth in Friends of the Children Utah spends four hours per week with their adult “friend.” They can be together anywhere from parks or museums to parent-teacher conferences. The program is not something parents apply for. Lewis says organizations like the Division of Child and Family Services and the state foster care system make referrals. For starters, 100% of the kids are living at or below the poverty level. Most have only their biological

By Carl Fauver | c.fauver@mycityjournals.com

mother in the home with them.

According to a news release from the organization, “Friends-Utah serves children who face multiple systemic obstacles, including lack of mental health care access, economic insecurity, parental incarceration, housing and food insecurity, educational inequities and other traumatic experiences.”

“Providing on-going care to children like this is not cheap,” Lewis added. “Our annual budget is $1.5 million, with 90% of that going to labor.”

Friends of the Children Utah got its start here in 2020, after various philanthropic foundations raised a total of $1.5 million dollars. Donors included: Intermountain Health, United Way of Salt Lake, Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As the program continues on in our state, 20% of the budget is now provided by federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families funding.

“Our mentors are paid and I am committed to providing salaries competitive with teachers’ pay,” Lewis added. “Our ‘friends’ are mostly ages 25 to 35, with a starting salary of $50,000. They work with eight kids per week, four hours each. We provide a 401k retirement program along with medical coverage. Our mentors are required to have 4-year college degrees and at least two years’ experience working with youth.”

After working eight years at a Salt Lake elementary school, 2010 West High School graduate Chris Barber fit the bill, and was hired by Friends of the Children Utah in February 2021.

“I applied online and was interviewed four times before I got the job,” Barber said. “They are very picky about who gets hired to be a friend. I love the long-term commitment of our program. When I taught in elementary school, I would have 25 kids for just one year. It’s hard to build a strong bond in that time. In this program, I have such strong relationships with my boys

and their families.”

In cities where Friends of the Children has a longer track record, their success numbers have been impressive. Some 83% earn their high school diploma or GED… 92% go on to post-secondary education, the military or the workforce… and 93% steer clear of juvenile justice system entanglements. The program is now operating in 19 states and sovereign tribal nations.

Unfortunately, with only a 2,300 square foot club house available at their current location, Friends of the Children Utah may not remain forever in the Kearns-Taylorsville area. Lewis and her team are now scouting Salt Lake Valley-wide for a location that’s at least twice that big, with public transportation accessible. To learn more about Friends of the Children Utah – and perhaps to donate to the “12+ years” program – visit friendsutah.org. l

Ashley (L) is one of nine mentors, called “friends,” now working with a group of kids through Friends of the Children Utah, based in Kearns. (friendsutah.org)

Friends of the Children Utah Executive Director Kelsey Lewis (L) leads a staff of nine mentors, or “friends.” Chris Barber is one of her two “Lead Friends.” (Courtesy Kelsey Lewis)

Jack (R) is one of nine mentors, called “friends,” who works with about eight youth each week through the Kearns-based Friends of the Children Utah. (friendsutah.org)

A team of nine mentors, or “friends,” now serves more than 60 kids through Friends of the Children Utah. (Courtesy Kelsey Lewis)

Carr ying a legacy. And a new name.

Jordan Valley Medical Center - West Valley is now Holy Cross Hospital - Jordan Valley West. We're honoring our namesake and honored to care for our community. Find us at five Holy Cross Hospital locations and more than 45 clinics along the Wasatch Front.

Holy Cross Hospital

Jordan Valley West

Formerly Jordan Valley Medical Center - West Valley

Taylorsville baseball finishes 18-10, second in region

Photos by Travis Barton

Mathew Keys celebrates with the dugout after hitting a double during the Warriors tight series against Cyprus. The Taylorsville High baseball team went 18-10 (15-3 in region) on the year with the Warriors taking second in Region 2 behind Cyprus.

Jacob Ballard slides home during Taylorsville’s tight 7-6 loss to Cyprus that effectively decided the region championship.

Cole Fromm led the team from the mound with the senior pitching a 2.48 ERA to form a tough duo with fellow pitcher Daniel Healy.

Karson Stephens looks to lay down a bunt. Taylorsville earned the No. 9 seed for the 6A state playoffs where after sweeping Clearfield, it took on Pleasant Grove in the super regional, falling in two games including a tight 3-2 loss to end the season.

City Moves Away from Good Landlord Program in Favor of Streamlined Process

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Taylorsville Dayzz celebrated its 27th year this past month, and somehow magically it keeps getting better and better each year — except we know it’s not magic. Our city’s preeminent event is so successful because of the outstanding, dedicated e orts of the many, many volunteers who contribute so much to make it so.

The three-day celebration takes the whole year to plan. In fact, I know that even as our eyes turned to the skies to watch the Fireworks Extravaganza on Taylorsville Dayzz’ nal night, there were brains ticking about what to learn from this year’s event toward improvement for the next.

We are so lucky to have so many in our city who are willing to lend a helping hand in creating such fun and organizing an event that brings our entire community together. It’s something I look forward to every year, and I know many people who have since moved to other cities or states often come back for Taylorsville Dayzz. In fact, some families even plan their summer family reunions around it, with children and grandchildren returning to their hometown for the celebration.

From the parade, concerts, carnival rides, food booths, car show, 5K and — of course — the best reworks in the state, Taylorsville Dayzz 2023 had it all again this year. I can’t thank Chair Jim Dunnigan and the Taylorsville Dayzz Committee enough for all that they do in putting together such a fantastic event year after year. It is incredible.

I also must thank from the bottom of my heart our Taylorsville PD. Their e orts and planning to keep us safe during the event also takes months of preparation. While their tactical e orts are detailed and comprehensive, it is more than a job for TVPD. They also make a point of joining in the fun, and I am so glad they see the event as an opportunity for connection and relationship building.

It has already been two years since we celebrated our city’s 25th birthday with a Taylorsville Dayzz “Birthday Bash” to remember, and in only three years and counting, Taylorsville Dayzz will mark our milestone 30th birthday. What a party it will be, just as Taylorsville Dayzz is each and every year thanks to the e orts of so many.

I am so proud of our Taylorsville community. I love celebrating our hometown with each of you and coming together every summer for these three days that are always packed with festivity and fun. Let’s do it again next year!

—Mayor Kristie S. Overson

With approval of the City Council, Taylorsville administrators are moving away from the city's Good Landlord Program, in favor of a streamlined e ort requiring a single business license for rental properties.

The thinking is that all landlords should be "good landlords." Moving forward, the same expectations set forth as standards within the previous Good Landlord Program will continue to serve as the best practice model for all landlords within the city. Landlords have always been and will continue to be responsible for providing quality housing, following city codes and ensuring tenants are responsible neighbors.

In part, the city is launching this new e ort in tandem with the reminder that all landlords — including for both Single Family Home rentals and Multi-Family Units such as apartment buildings and duplexes — must have a business license with the city to operate.

Licensing ensures the city has updated contact information for the purpose of emergency noti cations, code compliance issues, etc. It also helps protect both the landlord's property investment and quality of housing for tenants, as well as the upkeep of neighborhoods.

The city recognizes some landlords may not

have been aware of the need for a business license. In this regard, no additional or penalty fees will be assessed for previous non-compliance over the next six months. This amnesty period will run from July 1 through Dec. 31.

Each new rental license application will be assessed a onetime $100 administrative fee and base fees, depending on the rental type. Please visit www.taylorsvilleut.gov for a Q&A and further details.

BASE FEES INCLUDE:

• Single Family Home Rentals: $20 base fee, plus $70 per unit (generally totaling $90).

• Multi-Family Units (duplex, triplex, fourplex, apartment buildings): $90 base fee, plus $70 per unit.

• Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) for immediate family living in the home, with no additional charge except for the $100 new application fee noted previously.

Application fees are used to cover administration costs inherent to processing, gathering, maintaining and keeping the records current. The city will no longer issue GLP licenses after June 30, with all rental business licenses cataloged (as one) in favor of the changes.

Mayor Kristie S. Overson

EVENTS JULY 2023

Every Friday night through Sept. 15 Starry Nights @the Plaza. The food trucks arrive at 5 p.m. and most music starts at 6:30. See www.taylorsvilleut.gov for the full schedule and details about what’s happening each night.

July 4 – all day

Independence Day. City o ces are closed for the holiday.

July 19 – 6:30 p.m.

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

July 10 – 6:30 p.m.

The Taylorsville-Bennion Chapter of the Sons of Utah Pioneers has invited the Days of '47 Royalty to speak @ the Taylorsville-Bennion Heritage Center. See accompanying ad on this page.

July 10-15 – 7:30 p.m.

Footloose @ the Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center. Tickets are $15.

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

July 24 – all day

Pioneer Day. City o ces are closed for the holiday.

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

COUNCIL CORNER

By Council Member Meredith Harker

Taylorsville Teens Defy Stereotypes, Exemplify Kindness and Purpose

Sometimes, I think teenagers these days get a bad rap. Too often, we give them stereotypical labels such as “lazy” or “unmotivated” or “selfish,” but my experience with our Taylorsville teens has been the exact opposite of any of those descriptions. Let me give you three examples.

A month ago, we honored the seniors from the Taylorsville Youth Council who graduated from high school. As part of this ceremony, a bio of each teenager was read at our City Council meeting. I was amazed, stunned, oored and overwhelmed by the accomplishments of these young people! The educational opportunities they seized, the service they gave their school and community, their hard work and dedication to making the City of Taylorsville a better place was nothing short of amazing. I felt honored to shake their hands and wish them well in their future endeavors. I know that these teenagers are going to be future leaders and will only continue to make a positive contribution to this world.

That same week, I volunteered at the Taylorsville High School graduation party held at the school until 2 in the morning. Once again, I was delighted to find teens who were respectful, thankful, kind, responsible, excited and energetic. They were full of

life and optimism. It was so fun for me to watch them have fun with their friends and teachers. They played, they ate, they danced, they sang, they swam, and just embraced this very special celebration of all their accomplishments in high school. It was a pleasure to be with them that night.

Then, a few weeks ago, I was able to accompany 60 teenagers from Taylorsville on a Pioneer Trek, a reenactment of the journey that pioneers took to get to the Salt Lake Valley. The trek reenactment was a three-day adventure full of walking, pushing and pulling handcarts, enduring three heavy rainstorms, and getting to know strangers who were now part of their “family.” Even though it was challenging, I didn’t hear one complaint from anyone. Instead, I saw teamwork, camaraderie, kindness and acceptance.

They made up games and then invited everyone to take part. When they saw someone struggling, they gave a helping hand. When the trail got tough, they cheered each other on. Their energy and spirit were contagious and gave the adults renewed faith in our rising generation.

These are just three examples of ways I’ve seen the teenagers of Taylorsville step up and shine. These youth have so much to offer this world. They are resilient, brave, respectful, hardworking, dedicated and kind. They have hope for the future and want

to do their part to make a positive di erence in the world. I have been honored to spend some time with them over the past month and celebrate their accomplishments. If you see a teenager anytime soon, tell them they are awesome. They need to know that we believe in them.

City ‘Stars’ Recognized at 27th Annual Awards Gala

The city’s many star employees recently were honored at the 27th annual City Awards Gala, where Mayor Kristie Overson also presented the State of the City address that recognized Taylorsville as strong and ourishing.

In all, 17 awards were presented at the gala on May 16. “Starry Nights” was the theme for the evening at the Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center, so honors included the Rising Star, Shining Star, North Star and Galaxy awards. TVPD Chief Brady Cottam also presented department awards, recognizing lifesaving e orts and distinguished service, as well as supervisor, o cer, detective and civilian of the year.

“We could not do all the good we do each year by working alone. Instead, it takes all of us — moving forward with the same goals and vision — to light the way and accomplish all that we have over these past years,” Mayor Overson said in her State of the City address, which can be read at www.taylorsvilleut.gov.

Also visit the city’s website to see pictures of the following award recipients and additional details. The award winners were:

• Police Star – O cer Haas.

• Rising Star – City Planner Terryne Bergeson.

• Lifesaving Award – O cer Gerber, Sgt. Carver, O cers Clu and Hunt, Sgt. Hill and several UFA members including Capt. Christensen, Engineer Jones, Paramedics Sandstrom and Pitcher and Fire ghters Weimokly and Krinke.

• Shooting Star – City Engineer Ben White.

• Distinguished Service Award – Det. Tan, O cer Gri th and TVPD’s Directed Enforcement Unit, including Dets. Jensen and Andrew.

• Shining Star – Administrative Assistant/City Events Planner Jennifer Andrus.

• Meritorious Service Award – Det. O'Gwin, Officer List, Det. Keller, TVPD’s Defensive Tactics instructors, as well for the handling of four speci c cases by 1. O cers Montoya and Houghtalen; 2. Sgts. Bennett and Neal, Det. Lenz and O cers Hunt, Clu and Berg; 3. Sgt. Lloyd and O cers List and Hood; and 4. O cers Clu , Houghtalen, Montoya, Hunt and Gerber.

• North Star – Facilities Manager Joey Bona.

• Supervisor of the Year – Sgt. Palmer.

• O cer of the Year – O cer Berg.

• Detective of the Year – Det. Dean.

• Civilian of the Year – Prosecutor Liaison Jackie Shumway.

• Employee of the Year – Municipal Court Civil Case Manager Laci Mechling.

• Unit Citation – Violent Crimes Unit: Dets. Barrett, Tan, Baty, Lenz, Dean and Keller.

• Galaxy Award – Code Enforcement.

• Honorary Chief’s Award – Senior Supervising Attorney Tyson Hamilton with the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s O ce, Communications Director Kim Horiuchi.

• Mayor’s Choice Award – Former Cemetery Sexton Lee Bennion.

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)

Michael & Anna Kay Waddoups

Taylorsville Dayzz Marks Another Successful Year

Thousands of people turned out for this year’s Taylorsville Dayzz, featuring the traditional parade, concerts, carnival rides, food booths, car show, 5K and best reworks in the state.

“Another fabulous year, it’s remarkable how it just keeps getting better and better,” said Mayor Kristie Overson.

Mayor Overson thanked event chair Jim Dunnigan and the Taylorsville Dayzz Committee for all the time and effort they put into organizing the festivities, held June 22-24 at Valley Regional Park. “Once again, they were on top of their game,” she said. “The event, planning and execution were superb.”

The city’s float, which also was entered in the Days of ‘47 Parade, depicted the Taylorsville Dayzz 5K, complete with a hare and a tortoise winning the race. It carried the theme: “Team Taylorsville: Pioneering a Winning Future.” This year’s headlining entertainment featured Imagine, Queen Nation and the Surf City Allstars, playing respective Beatles, Queen and Beach Boys music.

“Every aspect of the event was perfect,” Mayor Overson said. “We can’t wait for next summer!”

Thank you to all the generous sponsors of the 2023 Taylorsville Dayzz 5K and Kids Run!!

Kristi Smith, FSS, LUTCF, AFIS

Crossing Guard Coordinator Recognized as TVPD Employee of Month

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

Congratulations to Taylorsville Crossing Guard Coordinator Chyrelle Fowers, who is TVPD’s Employee of the Month! Between being a crossing guard and crossing guard coordinator, Chyrelle has more than 13 years of experience. She has worked for both Uni ed and Taylorsville police departments.

At present, Chyrelle manages more than 30 crossing guards for TVPD. Chief Cottom notes that this responsibility is no small feat given Taylorsville City has three junior high schools and eight elementary schools within its jurisdiction. Each of these schools require multiple points of crossing, with some located near the busiest roads in Utah.

Chyrelle was nominated as TVPD’s latest Employee of the Month by Chief Cottam, who wanted to recognize her outstanding performance. “Chyrelle has done an outstanding job at building TVPD’s crossing guard program over the last two years,” he said.

TVPD also recognizes all of our crossing guards for the important work they do in helping students cross city, county and state roadways safely, every day during the school year. Additionally, TVPD thanks all the motorists who show our crossing guards courtesy and respect. This past winter was especially challenging, Chief Cottam said, given the season’s extreme amount of snow.

In getting to know Chyrelle a little better, some of her favorite hobbies include sports of all kinds. She especially enjoys high school sports but her true passion is coaching girls high school wrestling. Thank you Chyrelle and all our crossing guards for your dedication to Team Taylorsville. Enjoy the summer and we will see you again soon!

Green Committee’s 2023 Cleanup Day Collected Tons of Waste

This year’s annual Cleanup Day event saw the collection of literally tons of waste for recycling and safe disposal, and for the second year in a row, the Taylorsville Football team did yeoman’s work in helping to make the event a great success.

“They were so friendly and helpful to the residents of Taylorsville,” said Code Enforcement Manager Kathleen Richins. “They have truly made this event even more successful than it has been in the past, and they make the line move really fast.”

One couple, pictured with Green Committee members on their final drivethrough at the end of the event, rented a U-Haul truck and came through the line six times. “He was cleaning up his yard and took full advantage of the event,” Richins said.

The Taylorsville Police Department also provided outstanding help with logistics, prescription collection and safety, she said. “We really appreciate the volunteers.”

The Taylorsville Green Committee, which sponsored the June 10 event, additionally recognized and thanked participating vendors: Wasatch Front Waste & Recycling District, Clean Harbors, Metech Recycling, Rocky Mountain Document Destruction and the Other Side Thrift Boutique.

In all, the Green Committee handed out 380 dump vouchers and collected the following and more:

• 2 tons of electronic waste

• 6 tons of shredded paper

• 1.5 tons of latex paint

• 366 pounds of aerosol cans

• 1.11 tons of recycling

• 3.23 tons of green waste

• 240 pounds of glass

• 5.71 tons of bulk waste

• 102.4 pounds of prescription drugs

See additional collection numbers at www.taylorsvilleut.gov. The Green Committee handed out Spring Back Utah business cards listing details on how to recycle mattresses and keep them out of the land ll, and this was the last year the committee accepted CRT monitors and TVs, and plasma TVs.

Taylorsville Crossing Guard Supervisor Chyrelle Fowers is pictured at left. Photo credit: Carl Fauver, City Journals

Taylorsville Bennion Heritage REMEMBRANCES

Sugar Beet Industry Came with Trial, Error and Decades of Success

By Susan Yadeskie, Historic Preservation Committee Chair

With Joan White and our late friend, Historian Don

Frame

Sugar beet production in Utah began in the 19th century and contributed substantially to the economy for almost 100 years. For the initial attempt to produce sugar in the 1850s, 500 bushels of seed and heavy machinery were shipped from Liverpool, England, to New Orleans by riverboat and then to Fort Leavenworth, Kan. From there, they were hauled by 52 ox teams to the Salt Lake Valley.

A factory was set up in what is now Sugar House. This attempt was not a success because the factory could not solve the chemical problems of converting beets grown in alkali soil into granulated sugar. Another attempt was made by Arthur Stayner, a horticulturist from England, leading to the rst 7,000 pounds of marketable sugar produced in Utah in 1887.

The Utah Sugar Co. was incorporated in 1889. In 1891, the Lehi sugar factory was built by E.H. Dyer. This 350-ton capacity plant was the rst beet sugar factory in the U.S. built with American machinery. Factories were then established in other places; the West Jordan factory was built in 1916.

In 1940, Abram Barker, a Taylorsville religious leader who later served on the Salt Lake City Council, oversaw the purchase of a 40-acre welfare farm. It was located west of 2200 West between 5200 South and 4900 South. Barker states in his autobiography, “As I remember this was the rst ward farm in the church and as years went on, other communities followed our example.” The crops grown were alfalfa, grains and sugar beets, with the big-money crop being the beets.

Hard work and long hours are required to raise good sugar beets so the youth in the community didn’t have much leisure time. They furnished most of the hand labor, with adults helping when they could. Thinning and weeding had to be done, and in the fall, the plants had to be hand topped and thrown into sugar beet wagons (later into trucks).

The costs of producing sugar from beets declined as the process continued to improve. But by the later part of the 19th century, it could no longer compete with cane sugar from Hawaii, the West Indies, the Philippines and Africa. By the 1980s, there were no beet sugar factories left in Utah. The Utah-Idaho Sugar Co. had abandoned the production of sugar, and the Amalgamated Sugar Co. headquartered in Ogden had only four plants left — none of them in Utah. Today, beet sugar accounts for about 30% of the world’s sugar production.

Learn more and see the beet wagon and other farm equipment at the Taylorsville-Bennion Heritage Center, 1488 W. 4800 South. You can also come to a Community Fall Festival at the museum on Sept. 23, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Find for more information about it in next month’s Journal.

Don’t Miss These Library Events

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

ARTS & CRAFTS SWAP

Saturday, July 8, 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., VIP access

Saturday, July 8, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., general access

Bring your excess art and crafts supplies (paints, yarn, paper, etc.) and see what others have to swap. Start dropping o items on Saturday, July 1. Then, on July 8, VIP access/selection rights, for those who donated, begins at 10:30 a.m. Doors open to the public at 11:30 a.m.

VIRTUAL ADULT LECTURE | George Washington's Hair: How Early Americans

Remembered the Founders

Monday, July 10, 7 p.m. — Historian, Keith Beutler will reveal a forgotten strand of early American memory practices and emerging patriotic identity. Register at: thecountylibrary. org/LectureSeries

TEEN WATER GUN ART

Tuesday, July 11, 1 p.m. — Create colorful art by spraying watercolor paint onto a target. Registration begins, Monday, June 12.

MAGIC WITH CHRISTOPHER FAIR

Wednesday, July 12, 10:30 a.m. — Join in magical fun with popular magician, Christopher Fair.

SPLISH SPLASH STORYTIME

Fridays, July 14 and 21, 10 a.m. — The Taylorsville Library and the Taylorsville Outdoor Pool are partnering to o er free summer story times in the pool for families. The Splish Splash Storytime is free. Attendees re-entering the pool after the program are subject to the regular fee. This will be in the shallow beach area of the pool, 4914 S. 2700 West. Children 2 and under must wear a swim diaper. Children 5 and under must be within arms’ reach of a parent or guardian at all times. All children must be accompanied by a grownup.

SERVICE SATURDAY

Saturday, July 15, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Drop in to provide service for our community. The library will be putting together blankets for teens in Utah Foster Care.

THE REEL FOLK: AMERICANA MUSIC

Monday, July 17, 6:30 p.m. — Hear the traditional music style of America with the musical group The Reel Folk. Learn about folk instruments and listen to traditional music. This concert will be outside.

A ROBOTICS ADVENTURE

Wednesday, July 19, 10:30 a.m. — Join FIRST Tech Challenge Team S.O.U.P. at a drop-in, handson activity. Learn about robot building and see their robot in action!

TEEN ARCADE

Tuesday, July 25, 1 p.m. — Play low-tech arcade and retro games and earn tickets for prizes.

TEEN END OF SUMMER WATER FIGHT!

Saturday, Aug. 5, 11 a.m. — Celebrate the end of summer with a water ght outside on the grass. Wear clothes that can get wet, and a towel to dry o . Brining your own water gun is encouraged, but the library will have some available.

LIBRARY CLOSURES

Tuesday, July 4, all day — Happy Fourth of July!

Monday, July 24, all day — Happy Pioneer Day!

JULY UPDATES

New “Clean Recycling” Guide

WFWRD has a new Clean Recycling Guide. This guide helps visualize items that are accepted in your blue recycle can. Notice that pizza boxes are accepted in your blue recycle can if they are clean and free of food and grease. The guide also addresses the most common contaminants that the district nds in recycle cans such as plastic bags, food wrappers and Styrofoam. Avoid placing items pictured in the red box in your curbside recycle can as they are contaminants and can disrupt the recycling sorting process. Please only place items pictured in the green boxes in recycle cans. Visit the "How to Recycle" page on the WFWRD website wasatchfrontwaste. org to download and print your own copy. For any questions regarding items that cannot be placed in your curbside recycle can but can be recycled elsewhere, visit the website or call 385-468-6325.

WFWRD Safety Heroes

Wasatch Front Waste & Recycling District honors the outstanding performance and dedication of employees who perform their jobs safely over time. This includes safe operational and maintenance practices evidenced by being free of at-fault accidents, incidents and injuries. They are awarded a plaque, certi cate, monetary incentive and a personalized safety hero coat. So far this year, the following employees were recognized:

Check Continuous Flow Problems and Save Water

Is your landscape sprinkler stop-and-waste valve or sprinkler valves leaking? Does your toilet tank continue to ll time after time? Is the kitchen sink doing that drip, drip, drip thing?

If you received a notice in the message box on your bill, it means the water meter has registered a continuous ow of water to your property for more than 15 consecutive days. This may indicate a leak in your system, small or large, that is increasing your usage. Take the time this summer to nd and repair any leaks in your plumbing system, which will help you save water and money. You can also visit TBID’s continuous ow website page at tbid.org/continuousleaks for additional information.

If you have any questions, please contact Taylorsville-Bennion Improvement District by calling 801-968-9081 or visiting www.tbid.org. Follow TBID on Facebook and Twitter.

TAYLORSVILLE SENIOR CENTER 4743 S. Plymouth View Drive

July Class Highlights

The center has planned a variety of classes this month:

• Emergency Preparedness Class: July 12 at 10 a.m.

• Monthly Craft with Vickie: July 11 at 10 a.m.

• Ice Cream Social: Every second Wednesday of the month at noon.

• Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program: Every Thursday at 9 a.m. until July 20.

• Line Dancing: Every Friday at 1:30 p.m.

WFWRD Chat Bot

The district is pleased to introduce the WFWRD Bot on its live chat! It can answer many of customers’ general questions, guide you through the website, and there is always an option to speak with a live agent. Visit wasatchfrontwaste.org to try it out.

Pickleball

Visit the center’s website at www.slco.org/taylorsville-senior-center for other activities and lunch menu information. The Taylorsville Senior Center is located at 4743 S. Plymouth View Drive and can be contacted by phone at 801-385-3370.

Pickleball

Drop-In

Drop-In

Monday — Thursday 5:30 am 12 pm

Friday 5:30 pm — 8:30 pm recreation pass required

Learn to Play

Register Online Learn

TheUtah Days of ’47 Rodeo has something to entertain the whole family for as little as $17, plus you have great views of the mountains and downtown Salt Lake City from the Days of ’47 Arena. Come early and experience the FREE Frontier Fun Zone area that will feature shopping and food, pony rides, petting zoo, mechanical bull rides, live music and much more. Gates will open at 4:30 p.m. daily with the rodeo starting at 7:30 p.m. sharp.

The Utah Days of ’47 Rodeo is one of Utah’s longest-standing traditions – celebrating Utah’s heritage since 1847. The rodeo, and other Days of ’47 events, commemorate the day – July 24, 1847 – when a determined company of Mormon pioneers real-

Let’s Ride Utah

ized their dreams upon entering the Great Salt Valley. The Utah Days of ’47 Rodeo is a private, non-profit, volunteer, charitable organization. Our mission is to honor Utah’s pioneer heritage and educate Utah’s kids.

The Utah Days of ’47 Rodeo in Salt Lake City takes pride in setting the Gold Standard in rodeo and in 2023 they will bring that standard to the ranks of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) and the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA).

The 2023 event will payout an estimated $750,000 and will play an important role in determining Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) qualifiers and eventual world champions. Not only will contestants have

a chance to walk away with a pocket full of cash, but they will get the opportunity to win a gold, silver or bronze medal, a staple at this rodeo since 2017, making it the only Gold Medal Rodeo in the world.

“We are excited to once again partner with the PRCA, WPRA and their members that dream of qualifying for the NFR in Las Vegas each year,” stated Dan Shaw, Utah Days of ’47 Rodeo President & CEO. “It is our hope we can make that dream come true for a number of contestants, while also bringing world class rodeo action to our fans here at the Days of ’47 Arena. July has always been a profitable month for rodeo athletes, and we are honored to now elevate that even more and put Utah on the map among

top paying ProRodeos.”

Beginning in 2023, the Utah Days of ’47 Rodeo will be the largest paying professional rodeo in the State of Utah.

The 2023 Utah Days of ’47 Rodeo presented by Zions Bank, is slated for July 19-22, 24 and will take place at the state-of-the-art Days of ’47 Arena at the Utah State Fairpark (155 North, 1000 West), custom designed and built for rodeo. The venue—an outdoor arena located in the heart of Salt Lake City—features over 10,000 stadium-style seats.

For more information on the event and to buy your tickets visit www. utahdaysof47rodeo.com.

R.C. Landingham captured the 2022 Gold Medal in the bareback riding. Photos by Ric Andersen.

Continued from front page

petitors can use any heat source they want. I use charcoal briquettes in my 12” by 16” grill. I normally cook two steaks – a practice cut, along with the one I submit for judging. A panel of five judges review our steaks, scoring on: appearance, doneness, taste, texture and overall impression.”

Romero has competed in Arizona, Nevada, Texas and Utah. The primary organizer of all SCA competitions here in Utah, Steve Johnson, says Romero is among the best grillers in our state.

“Jake finished 4th among all our Utah competitors in 2022 and is now 2nd in the state this year,” Johnson said. “He’s one of our top performers and definitely one of the guys to beat. When I first began competitive barbequing, there were maybe 10 to 15 competitors here in Utah. Now I’d say it’s 40 to 45. And our competitions here in the state draw grillers from all over the west.”

Based in Lehi, Johnson makes his primary living selling medical laboratory equipment. A dozen years ago, he found himself with some “extra space” in his healthcare supply building. So, he decided to open BBQ Pit Stop (bbqpitstop.com). But be forewarned: if you visit Johnson’s store, you will leave just as hungry as when you entered. This is NOT a sandwich shop.

“We sell smokers, grills, rubs, sauces, wood pellets and all kinds of other barbeque supplies,” he explained. “We also sell lots of specialty meats: briskets, brats – even hams and turkeys, seasonally. But we are not a restaurant. Compare BBQ Pit Stop to a golf shop. If you need help with your putting or your slice, you visit a golf shop for tips, and maybe some equipment. In our shop, we offer barbequing tips – along with sauces, spices and other things to help make the meat that much tastier.”

His business plan must be working. In addition to his Lehi store, Johnson has franchised out five more BBQ Pit Stops in: Layton, Logan, Murray, Payson and St. George. You can also

Taylorsville house transformed as part of Zions Bank’s Paint-a-Thon

Thirty-six homes got a fresh makeover in June as part of the Zions Bank annual Paint-a-Thon.

One of those homes was in Taylorsville for Judy Hammond, 81. More than 70 volunteers – including local bank employees and their family members – transformed the Taylorsville home with a new two-toned paint. Volunteers also painted the shed.

“Paint-a-Thon has become a cherished annual tradition as we help our neighbors spruce up their homes and yards,” Zions employee and Paint-a-Thon team captain Ryan Maughan said. “As Zions Bank marks its 150th anniversary this year, serving our communities remains central to who we are as a bank.”

Along with beautifying neighborhoods, the Paint-a-Thon project aims to help older adults, people with disabilities and veteran

homeowners take pride in their homes and maintain their independence. Throughout the week, more than 2,200 individuals volunteered to clean, scrape and paint homes in Utah, Idaho and Wyoming.

In addition to painting, Zions employees provide yard clean-up, pruning, mowing, planting and minor repairs as needed by homeowners. The cost for paint and supplies is contributed by Zions Bank. Dinner for West Valley City volunteers was donated by Chickfil-A.

The average age of this year’s homeowner is 76, with an average yearly income of $31,600. Projects completed during the annual weeklong event were selected with the assistance of nominations from the public, state housing agencies, community organizations and local churches. l

view him offering barbequing tips on YouTube.

In just over a month this spring, Romero entered steaks into competitions in American Fork, Las Vegas, Nevada, Show Low (northeast of Phoenix), Arizona and Salt Lake City. Of the eight meat cuts he shared with judging panels at those events, six placed in the top ten. More importantly, one of the steaks finished first –earning Romero his “Golden Ticket.”

Steak Cookoff Association World Championship organizers are clearly fans of “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.” Just like the movie characters – Augustus Gloop, Veruca Salt, Mike Teavee, Violet Beauregarde and Charlie Bucket – the only way for grilling competitors to enter the Texas showdown is by holding a “Golden Ticket.”

Barbequers earn their ticket by placing first at a regional competition. Or they can get a “pass down” Golden Ticket, if they finish 2nd – and the 1st place winner has already claimed their Golden Ticket. Romero has earned his chocolate factory, er, World Championship ticket three years running.

“Winning or placing high is fun; but I do this because the people are nice and there’s a great sense of inclusion at these events,” he concluded. “We are competitive. But we also try to help each other. It’s a great activity for families. I just bought a camp trailer to stay at the events – and to have our friends stay with us.”

Steve Johnson sees it about the same way.

“Competitive grilling is fun for the whole family and we have cooks of all different ages,” he said. “The comradery among our grillers is so much fun. It’s an inviting atmosphere. Sure, they all love to earn money and other prizes at our competitions. But they are also always willing to help each other out – to make it fun for everyone.”

Just a sea of happy, steak-grilling competitors – not unlike the mini-flower dandelion sea that adorned my front yard, one neighbor mowing ago. l

Volunteers paint the Taylorsville home of Judy Hammond during Zions Bank’s annual Paint-a-Thon service project, which took place from June 12-16. (Photo courtesy Zions Bank)

Jake Romero carefully prepares his grill before placing his steak down a total of 4 times to create its perfectly-placed grill marks. (Courtesy Jake Romero)

Auto loans that defy inflation

Market rates may be on the rise, but with an auto loan from Granite, no need to worry! You get rewarded just for making ontime payments. Yup, you read that right. Every 3 months that you make on-time payments, you earn a rate discount. No enrollment necessary, just pay on time and your rate keeps getting better. So, whether you’re going to work, taking a road trip, off-roading, or whatever fun you have planned, you can watch your rate vanish. Granite is always there... so you can make life happen.

Larkin Mortuary is one of the most respected funeral homes in the Salt Lake Valley. Its pioneer founder, George William Larkin, arrived in Utah in 1863, having emigrated from Cambridge, England. He started the Larkin tradition of arranging funerals in 1885. Today, with six generations of history serving Utah families, four mortuaries, cremation facilities and two cemeteries, Larkin Mortuary remains locally owned and family managed.

Larkin’s vertically integrated services also provide a premier floral shop, monument, urn and vault manufacturing facilities, and beautiful memorial meeting and luncheon facilities. Multilingual staff honor and facilitate important traditions of many cultures.

BE A MEDICAL HERO! JOIN A STUDY

GILEAD

Treatment for COVID-19 for non-hospitalized people who have tested positive for and have symptoms of COVID. This is a 90-day study for ages 18-65. There are 10 visits total, 7 in person and 3 over the phone. You must also be willing to fill out a questionnaire from day 1 to day 29, and then for day 60 and 90.

CODAGENIX - CHILD RSV STUDY

This is a live vaccine for children ages 2-5 years old. This study is 8 months long, and there are 15 visits total. 10 of these are in-person visits and 5 are over the phone. 2 doses of nose drops are to be administered on day 1 and day 29. Only one child per household can participate, they must not be around children less than 6 months old, pregnant women or be in daycare. Must have been a fullterm birth of 36-42 weeks.

KAN-101-02 - CELIAC DISEASE

This study is for adults 18 - 70 years old who have a Celiac Disease diagnosis either by a positive Celiac serology or biopsy, and you must follow a gluten-free diet for 12 months. There are two parts to this study: Part A and Part B. What part you are assigned to will determine how long the study will be. Part A is 8 weeks with 4 weeks of screening, 7 days for treatment, 3 weeks of follow-up, and 3 IV doses. Part B is 58 weeks, 6 weeks of screening, 7 days for treatment, and 51 weeks of follow-up, also done in 3 IV doses.

out

They were both professional, communication was great and they were thorough.I would recommend them to anyone! ”

—Anna D

AlthoughI don’t like crowds, parades or people, in general, when my husband suggested we attend the Pride Parade last month in Salt Lake, I painted a rainbow on my face, donned my “More Love” shirt and jumped in the car.

After a year of devastating anti-gay and anti-trans legislation across the country, we wanted to show our support for the LGBTQ+ community, even if that meant standing in a crowd of more than 50,000 parade attendees singing at the top of their lungs.

Because how do you fight hate? With a celebration of love.

The theme was “Queer Pride is Unapologetic” and that message rang throughout the parade. When the crowd saw the first rainbow banners a block away, it burst into applause and continued cheering for two hours. I sang out loud to every Lizzo anthem. I chanted until I lost my voice. I clapped until my shoulders hurt. I danced in ways that completely embarrassed my husband. I smiled until my face was sore.

Love was palpable. It brought me to tears more than once as I watched the support, kindness and joy being showered on this parade by thousands of people, of all ages, faiths, races and gender identities.

It was an event of unrestrained joy with enough sequins, bright colors, sky-high wigs, hella high heels and drag queens to

Take pride in love

Peri Kinder Life and Laughter

bring a smile to RuPaul’s face. Couples were holding hands, hugging, kissing, smiling, dancing and lifting a big middle finger to oppression and hate.

It was great to see nearly 200 businesses and organizations put on their rainbow best to spread the love. Entries included Delta Airlines, Westminster University, Intermountain Health, the Cougar Pride Center and ABC4 Utah.

The Salt Lake City Public Library had a large group of participants, because librarians are on the front lines, defending free speech every day and fighting book bans with humor and flair.

I’ve never been to a better parade. I’ve never celebrated a better message. With suicide rates rising for LGBTQ+ youth, hate is not acceptable. Intolerance is not acceptable. The only thing that’s acceptable is inclusion, joy, kindness, grace and love.

After the parade, we walked through

the festival, talking with vendors, enjoying live music and eating tasty foods. We learned about drag queen bingo at a local church, chatted with a BYU student who wrote a book about coming out as gay and took pictures for lots of happy couples.

We watched people get tattoos, we bought new T-shirts, we smiled at strangers, we stood in line for lukewarm BBQ. We visited with friends. We saw bravery. We saw community. We saw free mom hugs. We saw compassion. We saw gay Darth Vader. We saw celebration. We saw dogs in tutus. We saw love.

Threats against the LGBTQ+ communi-

ty have quadrupled over the last few years, and organizers spent extra money for heightened security at the parade and festival. State leaders, churches, communities and individuals should be careful about comments, rules and legislation that contribute to these dangers. Be careful who you exclude, it could be someone you love.

For the LGBTQ+ community, continue living unapologetic. The world needs more dancing, more sequins, more hella high heels, more bright colors, more sky-high wigs, more connection, more dogs in tutus, more rainbow T-shirts and more love.