West Valley City Journal August 2018

August 2018 | Vol. 4 Iss. 08

FREE

FIRE DEPARTMENT IMPROVES COVERAGE,

EFFICIENCY WITH NEW STATION, UPGRADES TO OTHERS

By Travis Barton | travis@mycityjournals.com

I

t was a few years ago when Renee Layton’s daughter fell out of a window. She called 911 and the fire department showed up—14 minutes later.

Since 2001 Layton has lived in Diamond Summit, one of the most southwestern neighborhoods in West Valley City. The fire department’s response time had nothing to do with quality and everything to do with location. “It wasn’t their fault, that’s just how far they were,” Layton said.

It was a problem for an underserved part of the city, but not anymore.

West Valley City opened its newest fire station, station 76, on June 26 at 5372 South Upper Ridge Road with an honorary “hose cutting” ceremony and open house to celebrate the grand opening.

“This station means the world to me,” Layton said at the open house. “Because now we’re talking a handful of minutes, that’s so much better and it’ll help our part of the city feel more connected.”

The station’s proximity to the southwest corner shaves off critical seconds when responding to calls. “A couple of minutes can make a huge difference,” said Mayor Ron Bigelow.

“So having this station here is a major step forward for the city.

We can now serve the residents of this part of our fair city in a more rapid and efficient way.”

With the closest station being station 71 at 4160 South 6400 West, there was a big push for this station, said Fire Chief

Nearby residents check out station 76’s fire truck during the open house of the brand-new station. (Travis Barton/City Journals)

John Evans, even more so after Unified Fire closed another station nearby.

The fresh new fire house comes as part of a three-station overhaul. Station 76, which finished two months ahead of

Local Postal Customer ECRWSS Scan Here: Interactive online edition with more photos.

schedule, brings the total fire houses in the city from five to six.

But stations 71 and 72 (4100 South 4314 West) are being completely redone. Station 72, the busiest in the city with 3,349 reported calls in 2017, was demolished Continued on page 5...

Thank You to our Community Sponsors for supporting City Journals

Presort Std U.S. Postage PAID Riverton, UT Permit #44

How can I save lives?

Have you been told you have an antibody?

If you are Rh Negative and have been told you have a blood antibody, you may qualify for our Anti-D specialty program. You could be donating plasma used to create life-saving Rh Immunoglobulin medication.

In doing so, you can earn up to $660 a month.

Medications derived from these proteins literally saves the lives of babies during pregnancy.

GRIFOLS Biomat in Taylorsville 2520 West 4700 South Taylorsville, UT 84129 (801) 965-9160

www.grifolsplasma.com

Page 2 | August 2018

NEW DONORS BRING THIS COUPON IN FOR A

$20 BONUS on your third donation* Coupon good for the GRIFOLS Biomat in Taylorsville.

*Third donation must be completed within 31 days of the first donation.

Hours of operation for Monday – Thursday: 6:30am – 7:00pm | Friday: 6:30am – 6:30pm Saturday 7:30am – 3:00pm | Sunday: 8:00am – 12:00pm

West Valley City Journal

WVCJournal .com

August 2018 | Page 3

Councilman’s request to potentially change city name rebuffed

By Travis Barton | travis@mycityjournals.com The West Valley City Journal is a monthly publication distributed directly to residents via the USPS as well as locations throughout West Valley City.

For information about distribution please email circulation@mycityjournals. com or call our offices. Rack locations are also available on our website.

For subscriptions please contact: circulation@mycityjournals.com The views and opinions expressed in display advertisements do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions held by Loyal Perch Media or the City Journals. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the owner.

The West Valley Team CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Bryan Scott bryan@mycityjournals.com EDITOR: Travis Barton travis@mycityjournals.com ADVERTISING: 801-254-5974 DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING: Ryan Casper ryan.casper@mycityjournals.com 801-671-2034 SALES ASSOCIATES: Melissa Worthen melissa@mycityjournals.com 801-897-5231 Tracy Langer Tracy.l@mycityjournals.com 385-557-1021 CIRCULATION COORDINATOR: Brad Casper circulation@mycityjournals.com EDITORIAL & AD DESIGN: Ty Gorton Sierra Daggett Amanda Luker

West Valley City Journal 9500 South 500 West Suite 205 Sandy, UT 84070 Phone: 801 254 5974

Designed, Published & Distributed by

A request by one councilman to consider changing the city name from West Valley City was met with opposition by the majority of the council. (Travis Barton/City Journals)

I

n 1980, residents from Granger, Hunter and Redwood voted to incorporate and became West Valley City. That name is not changing anytime soon.

Despite a passionate plea to consider changing the city’s name by Councilman Tom Huynh, the West Valley City Council informally voted to not continue discussing the possibility.

Huynh brought forth the idea with a possibility of putting it on the ballot in November.

Huynh said city culture has changed from 38 years ago when WVC was covered in vacant land, today is about having high tech companies. And while he acknowledged a simple name change would not do it, he said it would initiate an adjustment to a “new goal, new narrative.”

During a heartfelt speech to the rest of the council, Huynh focused on the possible paradigm shift of what a name change could do to the city’s brand. This would, he said, make the city more competitive in bringing big name companies to the city, encourage a clean slate rejuvenation from everyone and change outside perceptions of the city.

“In the long run, you look back you see we’re doing the right thing,” he told the other

Thank You

councilmembers.

But they were not moved.

Councilmembers Steve Buhler and Lars Nordfelt said they weren’t interested and Councilman Jake Fitisemanu Jr. said he would need a compelling point to consider putting that on a ballot, such as empirical data or a public outcry.

He wondered whether companies even consider the name of the city.

“People from the outside may have a different perception of the name than people from the hood – us here (in WVC) – (where) there’s not the same stigma,” Fitisemanu said when the topic first surfaced in a June study meeting.

Fitisemanu said a culture shift can be implemented, but it doesn’t require the city being renamed. “We can make incremental changes within each department without having to change the name.”

Huynh would have liked to see a list of four or five options for city names placed on a ballot for the people to decide. The name would only be the start, he said.

“You cannot change the name and expect change,” it needs to come from within, little by little, Huynh said. “You have to have faith, have courage to do this.”

The two-term councilman Huynh from

District 1 cited other examples of cities doing this and the benefits that followed.

This includes Joe, Montana, a small town of less than 30 residents near the North Dakotan border. The town changed its name from Ismay to Joe in 1993 after the famous football player, Joe Montana, joined the Kansas City Chief. It was a publicity stunt to raise money to fix its fire truck, but ended up affording them money to buy a new fire truck and build a community center. The city’s name later returned to Ismay.

He also highlighted Stonecrest, Georgia.

Located 20 miles east of Atlanta, the city council voted fall 2017 to de-annex part of the city to be renamed “Amazon” to lure the major conglomerate’s proposed second headquarters.

Councilman Don Christensen was adamantly opposed to changing the name. He said companies choose location based on need rather than name, referencing a company who chose Salt Lake City over Woods Cross because it needed two miles of available railroad track and not because of the name.

Councilmembers identified with Huynh’s passion, but ultimately decided against pursuing the possibility.

“I feel you from the heart, but not from the head,” Fitisemanu said. l

to our Community Sponsors for supporting City Journals

MISSION STATEMENT Our mission is to inform and entertain our community while promoting a strong local economy via relevant content presented across a synergetic network of print and digital media.

free l community l papers

Page 4 | August 2018

West Valley City Journal

and is being rebuilt.

It’s set to open later this summer.

Station 71 was demolished in July. Crews from 71 will be moved to 76 during the ninemonth construction period before returning. A new crew will be hired to staff station 76.

Each station will now have their own set of amenities, city officials said. All firefighters will have private bedrooms, large bays to house apparatus equipment (fire trucks are much bigger than they were in the ’70s when stations were originally built), work out rooms and separate areas for industrial washing machines to clean their gear.

Jake Arslanian, WVC’s director of facilities and construction management, pointed out the stations will be connected via a wireless system and have “sophisticated” cooling units to make the building green without spending lots of money.

Evans said the cost of all stations is about $9 million “which is really pretty amazing.”

Arslanian said they are at $7 million right now. With two of them being rebuilt and the third being built on city owned property, they

Continued from front page...

Jake Arslanian (left) played a major role in bringing station 76 to fruition. He shakes hands with Mayor Ron Bigelow (right) and Councilman Jake Fitisemanu Jr. (center) after the “hose cutting.” (Travis Barton/City Journals)

were able to save money not needing to purchase property.

Arslanian, who has family living in nearby Diamond Summit as well, said the city council challenged them to build three stations “for the same dollars we had for two.”

“We were directed to build smart and not dump a lot of money into it,” Arslanian said.

“Square footage wise, this is much cheaper than a lot of firehouses throughout the valley, it has the look, the efficiency and the capability of any fire station in the valley.”

He said by having EDA architects design both stations so similarly, the contractor, Poulsen Construction, bought materials in larger quantities, thereby reducing costs.

Other city departments were involved at each step, Arslanian said, meaning they never had to repeat something.

“Because we were all involved it was a team effort,” he said. “We have a successful building that we didn’t have (major) change orders.”

Total call volumes have increased by 26 percent from 2013 to 2017, according to the WVCFD 2017 year-end report. It’s an increase of about 1,000 a year from 9,669 in 2013 to 12,181 in 2017. Evans doesn’t expect those numbers to decrease in the coming years.

“By having an extra station now,” Evans said. “When those first stations are out (on calls), we’re going to be able to pull another station into cover. It’s just going to be better for all of our responses, and cover the city a lot better.”

Layton’s daughter recovered from her fall having only suffered bumps and bruises, but Layton is now fully recovered from the traumatic event with the mental comfort of a nearby fire station. She said that goes for all her neighbors too.

“We’re excited for having that peace of mind knowing that response time can be so quick,” she said. “It’s been a long time coming.” l

Buying or selling a home?

LET ME HELP YOU!

• 33 years of Experience • Certified Distressed Property Expert • Accredited Buyer Representative • 5-time Ulrich Realtors Listing Agent of the Year • Ulrich Realtors Sales Agent of the Year 2010 and 2016 Buying or selling a home should be a fun and pleasant experience. With 34 years of working throughout Utah, I can help you enjoy the journey of finding a new place to call home.

JOIN THE FIGHT FOR ALZHEIMER’S FIRST SURVIVOR UTAH CHAPTER WALK DATES AND LOCATIONS: September 15, Salt Lake City, State Capitol September 22, Daybreak, Daybreak Park

“Real Estate Joe” Olschewski 801-573-5056

joeolschewski41@gmail.com

1. Start a team.

Sign up as a Team Captain and form a team. You can also join a team or register as an individual.

2. Recruit Ask friends, family and co-workers to join your team, or start their own.

UTAH WOMEN’s

Golf Tournament & Clinic Tuesday, August 28 at Thanksgiving Point

SPonSorShiP

OPPOrTUNITIeS AvAILABLe! Benefits of ParticiPating • Play in a 9-hole scramble or join the 3-part clinic • Expand and reconnect with your network How you can ParticiPate • Become a Sponsor • Invite Friends • Donate an Auction Item

3. Raise awareness and funds.

Our fundraising tools make it easy to spread the word and collect donations. Raise $100 or more to receive the 2018 Walk to End Alzheimer’s T-shirt.

4. Walk with us.

Come together with your community to rally around the Alzheimer’s cause.

Register today at

alz.org/walk

ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE IS RELENTLESS. SO ARE WE. JOIN THE FIGHT TODAY!

$75 Per Individual Golfer or Individual Clinic Attendee $40 Luncheon ONLY | $300 Per Foursome All proceeds benefit WLI and The First Tee of Utah.

Both organizations are a 501(c )3.

to register for tHe event West Valley City elected officials perform the honorary “hose cutting” of the new fire station 76 in southwest WVC. (Travis Barton/City Journals)

WVCJournal .com

or sign uP to sPonsor:

www.thefirstteeutah.org/wligolf

August 2018 | Page 5

Major development postponed in southwest WVC

By Travis Barton | travis@mycityjournals.com

A

primary piece of undeveloped land, located along 5600 West and 6400 South, will face more discussion and modification after the West Valley City Council voted unanimously to continue a rezone request.

The property, currently designated for commercial, would have changed to allow for an 89-unit senior housing development. But concerns from elected officials—planning commission unanimously approved the zone change—led to the postponement.

Mayor Ron Bigelow was concerned about the lack of exactness in the development agreement. The mayor also expressed concern about limiting the amount of commercial space along 5600 West. While the rezone was being considered for just over eight acres for senior housing, that was only part of the intended larger development of the area—43.91 acres.

The almost 44-acre project includes commercial located along 5600 West, a senior living and assisted living facility would be placed behind the commercial buildings (directly west).

Behind those facilities would be two townhome developments with approximately 150 units between the two of them.

Other than the senior housing facility, all other projects are allowed in the city’s general plan without needing a rezone.

A rendering of the proposed senior housing near 5600 West and 6400 South. (West Valley City Documents)

A development agreement for the entire project was also on tap for approval as well as the senior housing. It was this point that caused pause for the mayor.

Bigelow said previous developments featured overall parking numbers and interior features, neither of which was included here.

“Obviously, they [the developer] have to

show they’re meeting all the requirements, but generally speaking most of these projects have exceeded those requirements which was a positive thing,” he said.

Planning Director Steve Pastorik told the city council the townhomes will undergo further review through a conditional use process where parking and interior features can be addressed.

“Without those assurances in there, I’m quite concerned and probably going to vote no,” Bigelow said. Though he did say he thought it was a “fairly decent project” and wouldn’t be opposed to further procedural review.

The rest of the council agreed that some modifications were in order. Councilwoman Karen Lang was concerned about parking plans in the townhomes while Councilman Tom Huynh was apprehensive without more security measures in place for the senior housing.

Councilman Jake Fitisemanu Jr., who represents the district where the development is being proposed, said nearby residents were uneasy about the amount of density. He wasn’t opposed to the project, but agreed some modifications were in order.

A date to revisit the development was yet to be determined. l

If you’re reading this, so are your customers.

Jason Wheeler

13 community newspapers serving 15 cities for over 27 years.

801-515-0584

Print and digital ad opportunities

Account Executive

Jason.W@mycityjournals.com

Real and trackable results.

WE’RE YOUR COMMUNITY CONNECTION.

Page 6 | August 2018

West Valley City Journal

Public services get boost from city’s CDBG funds

P

ublic services that treat many West Valley City residents will receive funding after a unanimous vote by the city council on July 17.

Just over $196,000 will spread to 19 approved public service projects. The money comes via the US Department of Housing and Urban Development through its Community Development Block Grant program. Of the over $1.3 million the city received, up to 15 percent is allowed in total allocation for public service projects. The rest will be distributed to administration (which is capped at 20 percent of funds), neighborhoods and infrastructure.

“It’s nice when we get some of our tax dollars back from the federal government and are able to distribute those on a local level to all of the good people involved in serving our community,” said Councilman Steve Buhler during the July 17 council meeting.

Six different services spoke during the meeting expressing their gratitude for being allotted funding.

Amberlie Phillips is the chief development officer at the YWCA. The $7,000 they received is for their Women in Jeopardy program, a crisis shelter that provides case management, support groups and access to community resources.

Phillips said of the almost 700 women and children they treated last year, 89 were from West Valley City.

“We thank you for your support of this vitally important work, and thank you for your

By Travis Barton | travis@mycityjournals.com

The Road Home is one of 19 different public services to receive CDBG funding from West Valley City. (City Journals file photo)

commitment to healing and providing safe shelter for those in need,” she told the council.

Matt Minkevitch, executive director of The Road Home, thanked the city for the $8,400 for their resource center and community shelter.

“We look forward to the day when we don’t need so many shelters in our community,” he said.

Peggy Daniel, development director at the South Valley Sanctuary—a domestic violence

survivor shelter that received $16,000—said they housed 125 WVC residents last year, the largest amount they serve. That would end up including 349 hours specifically dedicated to children of WVC, 512 hours of case management and 343 hours of clinical support.

“All of these services are provided free to the residents of West Valley and we certainly appreciate all the support you give us,” Daniel told the council.

Councilman Jake Fitisemanu Jr. thanked both these services and the staff for its selection process.

West Valley City has a CDBG committee, led by Heather Royall, made up of seven members including both staff and residents.

The committee listens to presentations from varying agencies and interviews them, reviews applications and evaluates funding requests before recommending—by vote—which agency ranks highest and would be most impactful to residents.

Layne Morris, director of community preservation, told the city council the committee gives a score to each agency based on four criteria: fit with the city’s five-year plan, organizational capacity, metrics provided of their efforts and the ability to spend the money.

The 16 other services to also be apportioned funds are: West Valley City Neighborhood Services, Legal Aid Society, Family Support Center, Salt Lake Community Action Program, United Way 2-1-1, YMCA, West Valley City Victim Services, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah, WVCPD, The INN Between, Utah Cultural Celebration Center, Salt Lake Community Action Program, WVC Family Fitness Center, Utah Health and Human Rights Project, English Skills Learning Center and Asian Association of Utah. l

When there’s trouble a-“FOOT”

CALL US! 801.967.3338

H. Ronald Brown, D.P.M Podiatry – Foot Surgery

Board Certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery

VALUE COUPON

FREE

Examination & Consultation

First Time / New Patient • Treatment for calluses, toenails, heel pain, arch pain, bunions, hammertoes. There will be no ChArGE, to Taylorsville Salt Lake City YoU nor to your insurance company. The visit & 4370 So. Redwood Road #B treatment will be FrEE. • It is determined that you need an X-RAY or X-RAYS to Sandy check for a heel spur, bunion, hammertoe or other bone 9844 So. 1300 E. #100 deformity. You will only be billed for the X-RAY or X-RAYS. The visit, examination and consultation will be FrEE. insurances Accepted: • It is determined that you need to have a cortisone Medicare; Regence BC/BS; BC/BS Valuecare; Optum; BC/BS Federal; United HealthCare; DMBA; Aetna; Altius; INJECTION for a heel spur, neuroma or ganglionic cyst.

Cigna; PEHP; Educator’s Mutual (EMI); Molina Welfare You will only be billed for the injection. The visit, examination and consultation will be FrEE. Selecthealth insurances Accepted: • You present with an ingrown toenail that needs to be Select CHIP; Select Community Care; Select Care; treated. You will only be billed for the treatment. The visit, Select Choice; Select Med; Select Value; Select examination and consultation will be FrEE. Advantage; Select Share

801.967.3338

WVCJournal .com

August 2018 | Page 7

Mark your calendar, August is a big month in WVC

By Travis Barton | travis@mycityjournals.com

A

ugust signals not only a dreaded return to school for students, it also signals one of the biggest months of the year in West Valley City. Here is the lowdown of some events happening this month.

“Neighborhood Nights” A proclamation in July by the West Valley City Council declared August as “Neighborhood Nights” and Aug. 7 as “National Night Out 2018” in West Valley City.

The proclamation stated that the city “strives to reinforce the importance of crime prevention awareness in the city” and that elected officials deem it “essential” for all residents to be aware of crime prevention programs “and the impact their participation can have on reducing crime, drugs and violence in West Valley City.”

The 35th annual National Night Out crime and drug prevention event is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch with West Valley City being recognized for its “Outstanding Participation” every year since 2004. That’s because the month features over 50 events as part of the program.

Wednesday Aug. 1 will see the Kick-off Party and Heroes Celebration at Fairbourne Station (2810 W. 3590 South). Running from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., the free event will feature activities, live entertainment, mascots, a West Valley City Police Department K9 demonstration,

Page 8 | August 2018

Members of the West Valley City Youth Council take a photo with McGruff the Crime Dog at the 2017 Kick-off event.

(Photo courtesy West Valley City)

emergency vehicles and food trucks.

Tuesday, Aug. 7 and Friday, Aug. 24 will have dozens of neighborhood block parties around the city, all organized by residents. Parties may have visits from police, fire, city council members or even McGruff the Crime Dog.

Block parties can take place at city parks, a neighbor’s yard or an entire street. Information and registration materials are available at www. wvc-ut.gov/nno.

Neighborhood Nights will also see community partners come together to share infor-

mation at the Safety Fair at the Family Fitness Center (5413 W. 3100 South). The fair will focus on seniors from 9 to 11 a.m. and families from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Wasatch International Food Festival The third annual food event for foodies and hungry people alike returns to the Utah Cultural Celebration Center on Aug. 10 (5-10 p.m.) and 11 (noon to 8 p.m.) at 1355 W. 3100 South.

A festival aimed at dishing up diverse menu options—from haute cuisine to street food—will also feature chef demonstrations and live music. This year’s musical lineup features the Soul Research Foundation, Steel Badger, Smiling Souls, Millennial Beat, Jukebox Antihero, Kingston Winter, Channel Z and New Soul Brigade.

General admission is $5 and children under 12 enter for free.

Movies in the park August will also see the final two movies in the park. Both will take place at Centennial Park (5415 W. 3100 South).

Friday, Aug. 3 will see the young bull “Ferdinand” as he escapes from a training camp in rural Spain while Friday, Aug. 17 features “The Road to El Dorado” where two con men find the lost city of gold.

Bring lawn chairs and blankets to the free event. Films start at dusk. l

West Valley City Journal

WVCJournal .com

August 2018 | Page 9

Round two: city leaders approve second year of Opportunity Scholars

By Travis Barton | travis@mycityjournals.com

F

irst generation college students from West Valley City may, once again, participate in the Opportunity Scholar’s program that assists and mentors those aspiring students.

The West Valley City Redevelopment Agency (essentially the city council) voted unanimously to approve $150,000 funding for an additional pilot year with the program.

Created and run by the David Eccles School of Business at the University of Utah, Opportunity Scholars provides resources to students such as tutors, mentors, internships, career services, networking opportunities, financial assistance and anytime access to the program director, among other services. West Valley City completed its first year partnering with the program this past spring.

“The program reviews are glowing,” said Councilman Jake Fitisemanu Jr. of the students he’s spoken with who participate in the program. Fitisemanu works at the University of Utah.

Sixteen students (of varying classes) were housed in four units at Fairbourne Station, next to the TRAX station for transportation, with an additional 15 students also assisted by the program. Four of those students graduated in the spring with two more expected to this summer.

All intend to remain in West Valley City, according Assistant City Manager Nicole Cottle.

From a city perspective, participation in the program helps increase education levels in the city and the aim is to retain those graduates adding them to the workforce in West Valley.

That’s the reasoning for the second year of the pilot program, to give city officials more data to shape a long-term partnership. One that includes sustainable housing for students and a pathway into the local business community.

Cottle used the example of how law students often start their careers where they interned. “We want the same thing here.”

Having studied the challenges students face in the city, city leaders found many wish to attend college and live in the city, but hold responsibilities with their community and family thus stifling those opportunities. Through this program, students have housing located conveniently in the city, near their family, without the necessary distractions.

Those students then benefit from the resources and mentorship offered through Opportunity Scholars.

“This is just a great program,” Councilman Steve Buhler said during the meeting in which they approved the second year of the program.

Back in February, two of the original 16 students spoke to the city council expressing their gratitude for the city’s help.

“A lot of us didn’t have many options,” an

emotional Fabrynn Soonalote said at the time.

“I myself was homeless before this. I really do appreciate this.” l

Students from the Opportunity Scholar’s program stop for a photo at City Hall in February. (Kevin Conde/West Valley City Photographer)

Top five ways to avoid an accident

A

ccidents are inevitable. Or are they?

We’ve all met someone who says (more like “claims”) they have never experienced a car accident before. While we might doubt the veracity of such a statement, there are countless ways to avoid those nauseatingly time consuming situations — the ones where you wait for law enforcement on the side of the road (or middle of the intersection), deal with insurance companies and figure out finances for fixing the fender.

There are countless ways to avoid an accident, here are the top five.

1. Attitude You probably weren’t expecting this one first. As a driver, you control over 3,000 pounds (or more) of metal that can cause incalculable damage. Driving with maturity and the right mindset makes a world of difference. Speeding to beat another car to the exit or to get back at the person who cut you off a minute ago may give you a moment of satisfaction, but is it worth the risk and ramifications?

If all drivers commit to having a responsible attitude, imagine how much less we’d find ourselves in bumper to bumper traffic waiting to pass the accident.

2. Speed From 2012-2016, 40 percent of motor vehicle traffic crash deaths in Utah were because

Page 10 | August 2018

of speeding, according to Utah Department of didn’t let someone else go first.

Public Safety’s crash data.

This also applies when driving in poor Slowing down isn’t going to kill you, but weather conditions. Heavy rainfall and snowflying past others just might. storms blot windshields and make roads slick, 3. Distraction adverse circumstances to traveling safely. BaStay focused. Keep your guard up. Though sics become even more vital like keeping your you may be a phenomenal driver, others aren’t. distance from the vehicle in front of you.

Be aware of your surroundings by paying 5. Maintenance attention to what’s in front of you and checkThe best way to avoid car malfunction is ing your mirrors. Knowing where everyone else the maintenance of said car. is helps avoid collisions. If you’re distracted Ensure tires and brakes are operating withby your phone, music, or billboards with cows out issue. Keep fluids to their proper levels. writing on them, it limits your response time to Oil changes and car washes make a difference. what another driver may being doing in front of These simple, but effective maintenance tips enyou. sure your car remains a well-oiled machine (pun 4. Defense intended). l This was one of the first concepts taught in driver education and one of the first we forget: drive defensively.

Failing to yield caused 12 percent of deaths from 20122016 in the same data mentioned before. That comes to 154 people who died because they Here are some ways to avoid a car accident, like this one. (Photo by David Shankbone)

West Valley City Journal

Meet Archer Birrell: Granite’s Teacher of the Year

By Travis Barton | travis@mycityjournals.com

A

rcher Birrell is easy to find at Hillside Elementary.

Whether it’s his classroom filled with pine trees, his bearded dragon Link or his unstoppable movement.

Principal Sharon Sonnenreich has spent three years with Birrell—two as his principal at Hillside and one as a fellow teacher at Elk Run Elementary. “My first impression was, ‘Does this guy ever sit down?’ Archer is an incredible ball of energy.”

That boundless “ball of energy” was named the 2018 Granite School District Teacher of the Year.

“I can’t think of anyone who deserved being teacher of the year for the district more,” Sonnenreich said.

Birrell said it was a “really fun” surprise when the district appeared at a special assembly in May where he was awarded with gas gift cards from Chevron, a free iPad from Granite Credit Union, a free round-trip flight from JetBlue and free tickets to a Utah Grizzlies hockey game.

“I was grateful,” Birrell said of the award.

“I know that I give 110 percent to my job. To be recognized and appreciated for it, it’s just a gift, it’s a blessing.”

“It’s humbling too,” he continued. “Just a really neat experience to say, ‘Wow! What I’m doing is making a difference and the hard work I’m putting in has paid off and people are actually appreciative of what I do.’”

Becoming a teacher At just 32, Birrell has enjoyed the journey that’s led him to where he’s at. A journey with life lessons for anyone in any field, most appropriate for a school teacher.

As a child, he had two dreams—be an astronaut or elementary teacher. “‘Star Trek’ was the astronaut influence and the parents were the teacher influence because they were both school teachers,” he said.

His parents encouraged him to explore everything before settling on a career, and he almost did. Literally.

In what Birrell described as “the longest journey ever to get through school,” he went through every major that tickled his fancy in-

Archer Birrell raises his thumbs with his third-grade class at Hillside Elementary. Birrell was named Granite School District’s Teacher of the Year. (Courtesy of Granite Education Foundation)

years and earned a master’s degree three years ago in curriculum and instruction. Education was his calling.

“I had to look at what I was passionate about, what I thought I was going to really be interested in, what I’ve always wanted to do,” said Birrell, a Lehi High graduate and current Holladay resident. “When it came down to making a decision, it just felt right. I finally was able to commit to that idea, find a path that worked for me and just go straight forward through it.

After that [college] was fast.”

Birrell joined GSD, starting out with an internship at James E. Moss Elementary in Millcreek before moving onto Elk Run (four years) and now Hillside (two years) where he contin-

“There’s an art and a science to teaching,” Birrell said. “The science of course is what makes the child learn the specific skill you’re teaching them. The art is how you’re going to present what engages and excites them and makes it be a fun time.” cluding psychology, recreation management and medical science.

“I probably looked at a dozen or so different paths and came back around” full circle to be a school teacher, he said.

It took almost 10 years before he graduated from UVU. Now, he’s been teaching seven

WVCJournal .com

ues to make waves with his teaching ability.

Being a teacher It may only be seven years so far, but Birrell learned possibly his most important lesson as a teacher during his first week.

A 6-year-old student had sat quietly for an hour when he started crying. “He says, ‘I want

to do the right thing, but I’m having the hardest time sitting still,’” Birrell remembered.

Kids need movement, he said, so it’s important to build a schedule of “purposeful breaks” that sets their bodies (and minds) in motion.

One year he took a math lesson on angles and split the third-grade class into two Star Wars themed teams – Darth Vader versus Yoda—and ended it with a lightsaber dance off.

“They had so much fun with it,” Birrell said. “They worked together to solve problems to see which side of the force would overcome the balance of the galaxy. I’m having fun with it because I love outer space, and they’re having fun with it because they’re doing something unique.”

But in the end, they’re learning about acute angles.

Sonnenreich has witnessed his ability with kids on multiple occasions.

She said he asks lots of questions, showing students they can “think their way to the answer.” The feedback Birrell gives students, his love for each kid and his technical ability as a teacher all make him a great teacher, added Sonnenreich.

“He’s just got a great combination of those people skills, attitude, (and) technical skills as a teacher,” she said.

Birrell’s teaching philosophy is to have fun. Kids are fun, he says, and teaching allows his creativity to flourish.

He has lights that change colors, cutout clouds on the ceiling, fake pine trees, a grizzly bear, plants everywhere. Anything to make the classroom feel like a forest.

“You go in there and you just feel peaceful,” he said. “If I set the environment to be a peaceful mindset, the learning is going to take place.”

He has two class pets, a bearded dragon and a beta fish. He plays music, sometimes classical, sometimes positive and empowering pop music. “Whatever sets the mood for what we’re doing,” he said.

He does “nice wars” with other classes, where students “play nice pranks” on them in sneaky ways such as leaving gifts or positive notes.

“I always teach the kids, if we have to go to war we might as well make them nice wars.”

These battles of kindness add to the bigger picture for the school, just as how he runs the summer school program and is its after school coordinator.

“He really tries to help everybody so that every child entrusted to our building is having the best possible experience they can,” Sonnenreich said.

Future as a teacher Birrell wants to spend his entire career with GSD. He said he’ll keep his options open for other opportunities within the district, especially if it allows him to give more service to more people — teachers and students.

But for now, he’s excited for another school year this fall, where he’ll be moving to the fourth grade.

“I love teaching and that’s where I want to be.” l

Archer Birrell is a school teacher at Hillside Elementary and was named Granite School District’s Teacher of the Year. (Daniel Pacheco Photography)

August 2018 | Page 11

Inspirational teachers honored by students for their efforts, love and abilities

By Travis Barton | travis@mycityjournals.com

A

s part of its inaugural Inspirational Teacher program, the West Valley Youth City Council honored three more high school teachers during the July 10 city council meeting.

Katherine Gaskins of Granger, Hayley Rice of Hunter and Tanner Grossman from American Preparatory Academy were selected from each high school in WVC. “Our futures depend on them,” said Jelena Dragicevic, YCC mayor. “They're the ones that teach us, that build us up so we need to acknowledge them in some way and form, which is why we as a group decided to do the Inspirational Teacher Awards.”

Members of the youth city council personally surveyed students from their respective high schools, evaluated the responses and input from students, and then made its selection.

“We felt that teachers don't get enough recognition for the work they do,” said Zack Christensen, YCC vice mayor. “I mean you saw how happy Ms. Gaskins was when she received the reward and she's been teaching for how long now?”

Each teacher received a trophy, made and donated by OC Tanner, that was presented by the West Valley City Council.

The YCC plans to recognize three teachers each semester, this being the second time. In March they honored Aaron Cousins of Granger, Michael Barney of Hunter and Jeffrey Sorensen of American Preparatory Academy.

“It’s just great seeing them so happy,” said Dragicevic, a soon-to-be Granger senior.

“They're not paid enough in modern day society and sometimes the job they do goes so unknown and unacknowledged.”

Added Christensen, also a soon-to-be Granger senior, “They’re unsung heroes.”

Katherine Gaskins For 21 years, Gaskins has walked the hallways of Granger High. She’s coached boys volleyball, boys basketball and cheerleading; taught world history, US history, introductory psychology, sport psychology and maybe most importantly, AP psychology.

“I love what I do, I love the students, I love what I teach, and they feel that,” she said. It’s why she’s often referred to as “mama” Gaskins by her students.

She’s had one of the highest passing AP test rates in the state averaging anywhere from 85-100 percent each year for the past 17 years, when she began teaching AP. Gaskins spends months preparing her students for the test.

“I may be teaching college classes but I'm teaching high school students college classes so I have to teach them how to write technical writing essays, how to study effectively for this level to pass this test,” she said.

She is often found at Granger late at night preparing assignments or helping students with after school reviews. “I do it out of the love and kindness of my heart because I want so desperately for these kids to be able to pass the test.”

With her mnemonics, visual aids, labs or

Page 12 | August 2018

The West Valley Youth City Council take a photo with the three teachers awarded as Inspirational Teachers. (Photo/ TJ Gilmore)

Youth City Council Mayor Jelena Dragicevic chats with Granger High teacher Katherine Gaskins after three teachers (Gaskins included) were given Inspirational Teacher Awards. (Photo/ TJ Gilmore)

experiments, Gaskins teaches in a variety of ways telling her students to expect the unexpected. “I'm wild and crazy and fun and you never know what I'm going to do. I'm very hands on.”

It may be easy to see why she was venerated as Granger’s Inspirational Teacher.

“It’s very humbling,” she said through tears. “It's a huge honor to just have someone

notice, you know what you do and how hard you work…it’s just so unexpected.”

Hayley Rice Rice only worked at Hunter for two years, but left a lasting impression having taught English and AVID (advancement via individual determination). She also helped coach the drill team.

One student surveyed said, “She isn’t any

normal teacher, but one who sees something special in every one of her students.”

This past year, her AVID class made up of juniors and seniors did various projects to improve Hunter. Rice said they got a mascot costume to bolster school spirit, got a mosaic up at the school, and spent countless hours volunteering to make the school cleaner.

“It was an amazing class, a really special group of kids,” she said.

It was at the AVID banquet where she learned of the YCC award.

“I was absolutely blown away,” she said.

“Because I was really honored that such a cool group of kids thought that I had been inspiring in their lives as well.”

Rice, a Minnesota native who studied in Wisconsin, will be moving back to the Midwest with her husband, who got a job in Wisconsin.

She will miss Hunter, but has no intention of leaving the profession.

“To see (students) figure out what they are passionate about, what they want to do with their lives and then, as they go on out into the world, hopefully giving them those skills to accomplish whatever they want to do,” she said of her lasting memory of Hunter High. “…that those kids work hard and have dreams and being a part of helping them achieve that is really special.”

Tanner Grossman A math teacher at American Preparatory Academy where he explains trigonometry, pre-calculus and AP calculus to teenagers on a daily basis, Grossman was overwhelmed with appreciation for the YCC honor.

“I couldn’t believe it, it means the world,” he said of his reaction to the honor. “It just makes it all worthwhile. Sometimes your test scores aren’t what you want it to be and stuff, but if you can even help one person, it’s perfect.

I was thrilled.”

Students surveyed from APA were effusive in their praise for Grossman. One student wrote he “wished he could grow up to be like Mr. Grossman someday.” While another wrote that “if (Mr. Grossman) were my age we’d be the best of friends, but right now he’s crazy-smart and an amazing, enjoyable person.”

Grossman said the connection with students goes beyond the textbook.

“Most important thing for me is obviously to teach them, but to love them as well,” he said. “You can't teach someone if you don't care about them.”

He jokes with them, asks about their lives and finds students listen and care more in class.

“Math isn't always the most fun so you got to do what you can,” he joked.

Grossman was just as fulsome in commending the YCC. “These kids, they'll do jobs and sports and homework and yet they'll still come and do this council stuff. They're just amazing kids and they care about others.” l

West Valley City Journal

To belt or not to belt, that is the question

By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com

Currently seatbelts on buses are only available for students with special needs. (Jet Burnham/City Journals)

F

ollowing a recent school bus tragedy in New Jersey, the issue of school bus safety is under renewed scrutiny. The Federal Transportation Safety Board (FTSB) released a statement in May urging school districts to install seat belts on buses.

The issue is not new to Utah. Utah Representative Craig Hall of West Valley proposed a bill in 2016 to require seat belts on Utah school buses.

“We require, by law, for all children and all adults in our own personal vehicles to wear seat belts,” said Hall. “And we can be fined as parents if our kids don’t have their seat belts on. But for some reason, we deem it perfectly acceptable to put kids in buses with no seat belts at all.”

Herb Jensen, Director of Transportation for Jordan School District, thinks the idea of putting seat belts on school buses is an emotional issue.

“A lot of people think that if it’s the right thing for their minivan, then it should be the right thing for a school bus but that isn’t necessarily the case,” he said.

Jensen is confident in the engineering and design of school buses to protect passengers without a seat belt through compartmentalization, protecting students with closely spaced seats with tall, energy-absorbing seat backs.

Hall said through his research, he found compartmentalization is ineffective in rollover or side impact crashes or when kids aren’t sitting appropriately.

“Students are tossed about the interior of

WVCJournal .com

the bus like clothes in a dryer,” he said.

In contrast, when a child is buckled in, he said they are far less likely to be injured and can evacuate easily with the click of a button.

“An uninjured child can move more quickly than an injured or unconscious or dead child,” he said.

One of Jensen’s concerns about seat belts is they would exacerbate the situation if children can’t get out of them independently or if they are stuck high in the air after a rollover.

Jensen said fires on buses are more common. He believes restraints would impede a quick evacuation, especially for young children.

In his experience, he also believes students would play around and misuse seat belts, causing needless injuries.

Jensen said facts and data support that seat belts on buses is not the right answer.

“School buses are extremely safe already,” he said. “It would be hard to justify the expense because it’s extremely unlikely that a child is going to lose their life if they’re on the inside of a school bus.”

Jensen noted there hasn’t been a casualty inside a Jordan District bus for over 80 years.

“I would daresay there’s not a safer vehicle on the road than a school bus,” he said. “You don’t want to run into a school bus because you’ll lose.”

Jensen cites statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration which reports out of 324,710 motor vehicle fatalities from 2006-2015, only five were passengers on a school bus.

“We transport 15,000 kids twice a day and drive millions of miles a year on our buses,” said Jensen. “Although we do have accidents, we don’t have casualties with the occupants of the bus. I think that data speaks for itself.”

Jensen said if state or federal legislation passes, the district will comply.

“You’re not going to statistically increase the safety of our buses by spending the enormous amount of money that it’s going to require to put seat belts on the buses,” said Jensen.

“When we have our first casualty on a school bus, I might change my mind. Any fatality on a school bus is one too many.”

Hall said he is monitoring the situation to see what happens on the federal level before he initiates another bill in the next Utah legislative session.

“Eventually this is going to happen,” said Hall. “And unfortunately, sometimes it takes a tragic accident for the seat belts to be put into the school buses.”

According to FTSB, at least 29 states have introduced school bus seat belt legislation in the last year, but high costs have been a roadblock for many. Hall estimates only about six states have school bus seatbelt regulations.

To reduce costs, Hall said any bill he initiates will require seat belts on new buses only.

The National Transportation Safety Board also recommended requiring collision-avoidance systems and automatic emergency brakes on new school buses, citing that most bus accidents are caused by human error.l

August 2018 | Page 13

Got girl drama? Take a lap!

By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com

T

hird-grader Kennedi Gonzalez, like many girls her age, struggled to navigate friendships with other girls in her class.

“Some of my friends weren’t treating me well,” she said.

Kennedi joined the after-school program at Calvin S. Smith Elementary in Taylorsville called Girls on the Run. There she found a group of new friends and the social-emotional training to empower her to express herself and have her needs met.

Twice a week, from March to June, eight girls at CSSE met after school to run laps, learn lessons, work on group projects, eat healthy snacks, discuss problems and brainstorm solutions together.

“We talk about all kinds of things like peer pressure and bullying,” said Jennifer Huntington, the school librarian, who is one of the coaches. “They’re really open about what they’re struggling with, and we try to give them tips and tools on how to deal with life.”

The curriculum, developed by the national GOTR organization, empowers tween girls with lessons that develop self-esteem and conflict-resolution skills.

“They give us examples of how to solve problems, and you can use them later when you need them,” said Zaidy Rojas, a sixth-grader.

She had a situation where her feelings were hurt by a friend. Zaidy said her training in “I

More than 1,700 girls participated in the annual Girls on the Run 5k this year. (Photo courtesy Kristen Logan)

feel” statements allowed her to feel comfortable expressing her feelings to her friend. She felt better, and the friendship wasn’t harmed.

“She didn’t get upset,” said Zaidy.

The program teaches the young girls to recognize unhealthy patterns in their friendships. Destiny Florez, a fifth-grader, didn’t like the way one of her friends was treating her. She was able to be direct with her friend, avoiding unhelpful passive language, to resolve the issue.

Fourth-grader Rachel Miller said because of her GOTR training, she was able to communicate effectively when a girl in her dance class was being mean to her. She resolved the issue confidently, without any unnecessary drama.

Rachel said the program has helped her rely less on what others think of her. She also

feels more fit and strong.

The program challenges the girls to prepare for a 5k. This year, 1,700 girls participated in the race held in Sugar House Park on June 2.

Girls chose an adult friend or family member to run the course with them.

“The program really helps with self-confidence,” said third-grade teacher Kristen Logan, another coach with CSSE’s program. “It really empowers them to see that they are capable of doing whatever they want. To run 3.1 miles is not a small distance.”

Fourth-grader Sophie Scott said the program has encouraged her to work hard to set and achieve personal goals.

“It’s not all about beating people; it’s just to work on being yourself,” she said.

Fourth-graders Lola Parker and Rachel Miller joined the program to learn healthy habits and be more fit. But they discovered numerous other benefits.

Through their time together, the girls have created a support network.

“We learn to encourage others, to keep running and to keep running forward,” said Destiny. She likes how they cheer each other on and give high fives when someone achieves their goals.

Huntington said the friendships the girls form are the biggest benefit of the program. The girls get to know each other well, something that probably wouldn’t normally happen with their age range of third to sixth grade.

“It’s fun to be with all these girls,” said sixth-grader Reagan Vanderlinden. “We talk about how to make ourselves feel better if someone’s not being nice, and that’s been really great.”

And she has learned things about herself.

She has learned to identify what makes her happy—spending time with friends who are nice to her and doing things she enjoys.

Last year, there were 130 schools in Utah hosting the GOTR program.

Applications to host a program are available starting July 1 at girlsontherunutah.org.

The next 12-week program begins next March. l

LOOKING FOR PART-TIME WORK? WAnT FLEXiBLE hoUrS WiTh hoLiDAYS AnD WEEKEnDS oFF?

Granite School District is hiring Kitchen Managers, Nutrition Service Workers, and Nutrition Worker Substitutes!

Applicants must have: High school diploma or equivalent, background check, and be willing to obtain a food handler’s permit.

• • • •

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner positions available!

15 to 40 Hours per week with Flexible scheduling!

Hiring at over 100 schools within the district.

Pay starts at $11.60 per hour.

Call Us: (385) 646-4321

www.graniteschools.org/ foodservices/jobs Page 14 | August 2018

West Valley City | 385-399-2164 5567 West High Market Dr., Suite K-300

West Jordan | 801-784-0941 7689 South Jordan Landing Blvd, 140

HOURS: Monday-Friday: 10:00am – 7:00pm | Saturday: 10:00am – 4:00pm | Sunday: Closed

West Valley City Journal

Drag racing for the public is going fast

By Greg James | gregj@mycityjournals.com

Rocky Mountain Raceway lines up its cars for a drag racing experience. (Greg James/City Journals)

A

s Gordy Yates and Dominick Mirabelli pull their equally prepared Mustangs to the line, a hush fell over the crowd of coworkers. The much ballyhooed race amongst the employees of a local body shop was about to take place. The excitement demonstrated that the drag racing experience at Rocky Mountain Raceway had achieved its goal.

Yates staged his car and Mirabelli inched forward. As the tree of lights counted down to green Yates jumped the gun and his red light illuminated, for months they had debated who would win and their bets had been exchanged. It was over in a split second.

“The people who come have so much fun. The DRE (drag racing experience) is something most people never get the chance to do,” Rocky Mountain Raceway Experience Director Curt Stewart said. “We have company parties, public events and even family parties right here on the

WVCJournal .com

race track.”

The racing experiences began eight years ago under the direction of food and beverage manager Doug Binstock.

The first year in operation they held only two events.

“At that time we did not have cars of our own, so we rented four cars and put them on the track for the night. Then returned them the next day,” Stewart said.

The track now owns a pair of four performance cars; in partnership with The Young Automotive Group. They include Ford Mustangs, Chevrolet Camaros, Dodge Hellcat Chargers and Dodge Hellcat Challengers.

“One time a group came out and this old cowboy came up to me. He said I never drive over 55. There is no way I am going that fast. We got him in the car and gave him the instruction. His first pass was not too bad. By the end of the night he was in the 100 mile per hour range and screaming and hollering every time he got out of

the car,” Stewart said.

The experience can be set up as a private team building experience with as few as 20 drivers and as many as 60. The race track has designed competitions and challenges for everyone. It costs around $200 a person and can include a catered dinner or lunch.

“We had Mountainland Supply out here. They had lunch and did a sprinkler demo for their customers. When they finished we got them on the track for some side-by-side racing,” Stewart said.

Stewart said the cost of maintaining the race cars is insignificant to the team bonding and smiles he sees from participants.

The cars are thoroughly checked over regularly. Brakes and oil changes are the most significant repairs needed.

“The tires hold up really well. Thinking about it they get good usage a quarter mile at a time,” Stewart said.

On one racing evening Stewart gave the ride of a life-

time to young boy, Sean Johnson. He is handicapped and loves cars. His father Brian lifted him into the Camaro and helped strap him in. Stewart, a RMR drag racing instructor, made a pass on the strip at over 114 mph. Brian said it was awesome and his son loved it.

“We love doing this and trying to pass along the excitement of racing to our fans,” Binstock said.

Rocky Mountain Raceway is closing at the end of this racing season. They still have several slots of open public and private experiences available. Each racer must be 18 and have a current driver's license. The participants are shown an instructional video and allowed to ask questions.

The racing experience is modeled after several similar programs around the country.

At Las Vegas Motor Speedway they host the Richard Petty Driving Experience on the oval. l

August 2018 | Page 15

Race training is a way of life for many athletes

By Greg James | gregj@mycityjournals.com

N

orthern Mexico’s rugged Sierra Madre mountains are home to the indigenous Tarahumara people. During the 16th century they retreated deep into the formidable canyons to escape slave raids by the Spanish.

They have remained isolated from the outside world and trail running is a major part of their lifestyle.

Running became important to them for hunting purposes, notably chasing deer until the animal becomes too exhausted to flee. The book “Born to Run” explores their lifestyle and running habits. Today’s crossfit training, backcountry adventure races and Spartan events exhibit many of the physical challenges demonstrated by the Tarahumara.

“A friend of mine got me involved,” West Valley resident and Spartan competitor Sam Jones said. “It is a race with a lot of physical tests. I have competed in 30 or more Spartans and I enjoy it.”

A Spartan event includes racing up and down mountainous terrain, carrying baskets of rocks, crawling under barbed wire and climbing ropes — all while competing in a distance race course.

There are three main distances in an event: the sprint of 3-5 miles, middle distance of 8-10 miles and then the expert with a length of 12-15 miles.

Many outdoor events have incorporated 5Ks, family fun runs or marathons as part of the celebration, but training for each of these events can be a different experience.

“I have incorporated trail running and some say like a cross fit training into my exercise routine to prepare. I do carries with weights and training like that. Just being able to elevate my heart rate without red-lining,” Jones said.

The event coordinators of Spartans have developed training programs to help its competitors prepare. Fitness experts warn competitors to train properly to avoid injury.

“Doing 30 deadlifts fast can be harmful if proper technique is not followed,” said Kenyon James, a fitness trainer from The

Drive. “So carrying a dead weight across the room wrong could cause injury. Like any training if you do not maintain correct technique it could be bad.”

Training for a physical event like a Spartan, 5K or a marathon should include a check up from a doctor and a good mixture of different types of exercise. The Stack training program suggests weight lifting day one, sprinting and short bursts of power day two, trail running day three and density training day three, day four should include muscle use with the running. Then the process is repeated.

“I have gotten to know a lot of people and made several friends by participating. I suggest to start small and slowly get into it.

It can be hard to go right into the big races.

Not everyone is there to compete. Some just want to be physically fit and get together with friends,” Jones said.

Fitness training can be relatively inexpensive to begin with. The proper equipment can be as simple as a good pair of shoes. Although many experts can invest thousands of dollars into training, gym memberships, personal assistants and specialized equipment.

For many racers the desire to do a marathon or Spartan is a personal challenge.

They want to test their limits and see if they can go the distance or even lose weight.

Whatever the reason, they hold tight to that desire. Months of preparation can be tough, so maintaining the motivation can be key.

“It is a lot of fun and a good way to stay physically fit. Be ready to get messy. I have gotten bruises and cuts.” Jones said of his Spartan races.

Near the end of most Spartan races the final obstacle can be a fire jump; stacks of wood with small fires that the competitors must jump over to get to the finish line. The fun and hard work leading to that final moment is much like the Tarahumara in Mexico coming home to a warm meal at their nightly resting place. l

West Valley resident Cody Kluge raises his hand in victory as he climbs through a mud hole at a recent adventure run. (Photo courtesy of Cody Kluge)

Climbing under barbed-wire fencing is part of the Spartan adventure race. Cody Kluge is not sure how to make it under each of those sharp wires. (Photo courtesy of Cody Kluge)

An ACTiVE 55+ CoMMUniTY

Starting

in the $290’s

• MAIN FLOOR LIVING • CLUBHOUSE • CONVENIENT LOCATION

Lisa Willden Realtor Cell: (801) 913-3553

Colleen henderson Realtor Cell: (801) 898-0342

3150 South 7200 West, West Valley Page 16 | August 2018

West Valley City Journal

Hunter court refurbishment almost complete

By Greg James | gregj@mycityjournals.com

FREE

! ! !

E I MOV

Grandparents bring your grandchildren to see the new

Christopher Robin

Comflors removed the old basketball court and is laying a new base. (Craig Stauffer/Hunter High School)

A

s the school year approaches construction on the new basketball floor at Hunter High School is nearing completion.

The project began as the final two weeks of the school year finished. The work zone became off limits after the closing assembly, construction began the next day.

The floor is being replaced by Comflors, a family owned and operated business that specializes in indoor sports flooring. They have completed other floor restorations around the state. The Ogden based company has installed flooring at Granger, Corner Canyon and several other local schools.

The new Wolverines floor will cost approximately $270,000. The Granite School District awarded the contract to Comflors in February after receiving two other bids for construction.

The new flooring is designed to be highly resilient and has consistent shock absorption to reduce injuries. The system combines laminated planks and plywood to provide stability and strength.

The old floor was removed completely to the subflooring and replaced with highly functional plywood sheets during construction.

The flooring design will be similar. A large letter H will be prominent at center court and two Wolverine logos will be placed inside each three point line.

Construction has forced summer programs like volleyball, basketball summer camps and cheerleading workouts to be moved to other parts of the school or to local junior highs.

The Wolverines basketball floor has hosted

WVCJournal .com

many fabulous performances since its opening in 1990.

The boys basketball Utah state champions played on the surface in 2004. The team coached by Dave Filimoehala won its final 14 games of the season including its 33-32 victory over Cottonwood in the championship game.

The basketball team is not the only championship team to compete on the Hunter surface. Its drill team, the Silhouettes, won backto-back state championships in 1997 and 1998.

They were coached by Jenni Carlson and dominated the 5A high school classification for several years. This year they are being coached

by Courtney Carsey.

Last season the Silhouettes returned to the state competition after a three year absence.

They placed fourth overall in Region 2 and competed in day one of the state drill finals.

They lost in the pairing to Herriman, Layton and Westlake who all advanced.

The Wolverine volleyball team placed second in Region 2, but lost in two straight matches at the state volleyball tournament to Bingham and Copper Hills. This season the volleyball coach is Becky Dees.

The flooring refurbishment is scheduled to be completed before school opens in August.

The Wolverines volleyball team is slated to host the first events on the floor against Farmington High School Aug. 21 and Logan Aug. 23.

The last competition held on the old floor was the fundraiser donkey basketball game held in May. l

movie at Jordan Landing on us!

August 21st at 10am Call McDougal Funeral Home to reserve your tickets today!

(One child per grandparent)

801-968-3800

Thanks for supporting us since 1950.

Ask us about all your pre-planning needs.

4330 South Redwood Road Taylorsville, UT 84123 McDougalFuneralHomes.com

August 2018 | Page 17

Utah’s housing unaffordability crisis

By Lana Medina | l.medina@mycityjournals.com

D

espite an uptick in employment, Utah is becoming more unaffordable for low-income families.

According to a recent report from the University of Utah Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, housing prices have been steadily rising since the 1990s, but Utah wages are not matching that growth, and low-income families are starting to suffer as a result.

“Eighty six percent of people pay more than 50 percent of their income toward housing,” said Tara Rollins, executive director of the Utah Housing Coalition. “The issue has been happening for some time. Wages haven’t been keeping up with rent.”

Rollins says it’s especially affecting Utah because population growth is outpacing the number of homes and apartments available, and construction isn’t meeting demand.

Jennifer Gilchrist, a realtor in Salt Lake County, said she often sees homes in the $200,000 to $250,000 price range get offers within a matter of hours.

“It’s really crazy right now. There are a lot of people who want to buy houses and not that many people who are selling,” she said.

Since last year alone, the average single family home has gone up approximately 13 percent in price. For example, a $300,000 home for sale last year, would now be selling for about $340,000, according to the Salt Lake Board of Realtors.

While other states are suffering from an increase in housing prices, Utah is ranked as the 4th highest in the nation for that growth, and experts believe it’s only going to get worse.

For Jerusha Stucki and her husband, who were both born and raised in Utah, the rise in housing prices has made it difficult for them to search for a home for their growing family.

They’ve tried looking at houses, but the rising cost makes it a daunting task.

“Our price range is for houses that are old, dirty and cheap, and we don’t want to be house poor,” Stucki explained.

But waiting for a few years down the road could be even worse. Stucki says just three years ago, she and her husband nearly bought a townhouse but ultimately had to back out. Now, that townhouse is worth $35,000 more than the asking price from just a few years ago.

“There’s a good chance, we may not see houses at the prices we saw even three years ago,” Stucki says.

The housing unaffordability crisis isn’t just affecting families wanting to buy homes, but rentals are rising at an alarming rate.

Rollins says many families are combining with other households in one home to manage rental costs, and some are putting up with substandard housing because there isn’t anything better available in their price range.

“Last year the housing wage was $17.02 and it just went up to $17.77, that’s a 75 cent increase per hour,” Rollins said.

But Rollins says for the average person to afford a two-bedroom apartment in Salt Lake County, their wage needs to match approximately $19.90 an hour.

“That’s up 86 cents from last year,” Rollins explained.

The University of Utah Gardner Policy Institute report suggested some municipal measures to help reduce housing unaffordability, including waive or reduce fees for affording housing, change building codes to encourage more affordable housing, and adopt zoning ordinances that provide a wide range of housing types and prices.

But in the meantime, families like the Stuckis continue to follow the housing market and hope future changes will make housing more affordable in Utah. l

The Top 10 most expensive Wasatch Front areas in Q1 by median home price (courtesy Salt Lake Board of Realtors)

1.

$600,000

Emigration-84108 (up 19.5 percent)

2.

$555,000

The Avenues-84103 (up 20.4 percent)

3.

$522,000

Alpine-84004 (up 7.4 percent)

4.

$501,500

Holladay-84124 (up 14.7 percent)

5.

$486,000

Draper-84020 (up 3.5 percent)

5.

$486,000

Holladay-84117 (up 10.2 percent)

6.

$465,000

South Jordan-84095 (up 16.7 percent)

7.

$456,400

Sandy-84092 (down 7.4 percent)

8.

$440,550

East Central SLC-84102 (up 31.3 percent)

9.

$437,000

Eden-84310 (down 3.4 percent)

10.

$431,000

Canyon Rim-84109 (up 3.9 percent)

The limitations of the Wasatch Front geography means there’s not much more room for sprawl, so new Utah housing developments are going to have to get creative. (Justin Adams/City Journals)

Page 18 | August 2018

West Valley City Journal

Salt Lake Chamber hopes to raise awareness about Utah’s housing situation

By Justin Adams | j.adams@mycityjournals.com

Top and bottom: A block party was held as the TGIF was demolished at the old Cottonwood Mall site in Holladay. The demolition makes way for the planned Holladay Quarter development which has seen varying amounts of opposition from residents. (Aspen Perry/City Journals)

Representatives from the Salt Lake Chamber will be visiting with the following cities at each municipality’s city hall in the coming weeks and months with more to be scheduled.

North Ogden

August 14 @ 6 p.m.

SLC

August 21 @ 3 p.m.

West Jordan

August 22 @ 6 p.m.

Ogden

August 28 @ 6 p.m.

Springville

September 4 @ 5:30 p.m.

Woods Cross

September 4 @ 6:30 p.m.

Bountiful

September 11 @ 6 p.m.

Pleasant Grove

September 18 @ 5 p.m.

Lindon

September 18 @ 7 p.m.

Hurricane

September 20 @ 6 p.m.

South Jordan

October 2 @ 4:30 p.m.

West Bountiful

October 2 @ 7:30 p.m.

Sandy

October 9 @ 5:30 p.m.

Providence

October 9 @ 6 p.m.

WVCJournal .com

“Anytime a developer comes in with a plan that involves high-density housing, it’s like a four-letter word,” said Draper Mayor Troy Walker during a meeting of Draper officials and representatives from the Salt Lake Chamber.

The meeting was the second of many meetings the Salt Lake Chamber hopes to conduct with every city council along the Wasatch Front in order to discuss the topic of housing affordability.

“Recently we’ve had a lot of business owners coming to us and saying, ‘Our employees are struggling to find housing,’” explained Abby Osborne, the chamber’s vice president of government relations.

The Salt Lake Chamber, a business association that operates throughout the state, then partnered with the Kem C. Gardner Institute to produce a report on housing affordability, released earlier this year.

“What we found in the report was quite alarming. For the first time we have more households than household units,” said Osborne. “That’s a big component of why you’re seeing these skyrocketing prices. It’s just supply and demand.”

While there are factors that limit what state and local governments can do about housing prices — for example, the state can’t do anything about rising material costs or the fact that the opportunity for further “sprawl” is limited by the Wasatch corridor’s geography — the Salt Lake Chamber is on a mission to let governments and individuals know what they can do.

“We’re just starting a dialogue with the city councils,” Osborne told the City Journals.

“We’re asking them, ‘What do you think about

this issue? Would you consider smaller lot sizes? Why are you opposed to higher density housing?”

Osborne pointed to the Daybreak community in South Jordan and Holladay’s still-in-theworks Holladay Quarter development as examples of cities using creative zoning policies to create more housing in a smart way.

However, the opposition to new housing efforts is much more likely to come from residents, not local governments, according to Osborne. “We have a lot of NIMBYism in Utah,” she said, referring to an acronym that stands for “Not In My Backyard.”

That can be seen with the case of the Holladay Quarter, where community groups formed to fight against the development.

Part of the Salt Lake Chamber’s mission will include a “full-blown media campaign” this fall to educate people about the nuances of the housing affordability issue. Osborne said she hopes the campaign will start to remove the stigmas and misunderstandings that people have about new housing developments.

For example, one misconception people have is that most of our growth is coming from out-of-state. “Not true,” said Osborne. “It is us, having children who want to stay here and live here because of our quality of life.”

“I think the unknown is fearful for people,” she said. “They have this perception of how they want to raise their large families on big pieces of property. But when those kids grow up, where are they going to live? If these trends continue, there won’t be enough homes for the people that want to live here.” l

Plots of land around the valley are constantly being considered for new housing, like this piece in northeast West Valley City. A development proposal for townhomes was denied in June after nearby residents mobilized against the level of density. Residents want single-family homes built there. (Travis Barton/City Journals)

August 2018 | Page 19

Reach your customers through our readers.

“To Strengthen and Promote the Shared Interests of the Business Community” Representing the Business Voice in West Valley City, Taylorsville & Kearns Areas Contact Information: Barbara S. Riddle, CMP

CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE

To invest in your organization and community, invest in ChamberWest!

801-977-8755 barbara@chamberwest.org

The Why of ChamberWest CATALYST for business growth CONVENER of leads and influencers CHAMPION for a stronger community

UPCOMING EVENTS August 2 – Legislative Affairs Committee August 3 – New Member Orientation August 14 – Women in Business Luncheon August 23 – ChamberWest Luncheon

September 7 – Annual Fall Conference For more information or to register for an event, call: 801-977-8755 or visit www.ChamberWest.com

ChamberWest Welcomes: • • • •

Texas Roadhouse Platinum Payments Sweeto Burrito Roseman University of Health Sciences

Renewing Members • • • • • • • • • • •

Regal Cinemas Iron Workers Local Union 27 Landmark Hospital Monte Vista Manufactured Home Community Unified Fire Authority Utah Barricade Company Waterpocket Distillery West Valley Hobbies City of Taylorsville Mountain America Credit Union Rocky Mountain Therapy Services

Sports or Scout physicals!

$

25

No insurance or appointment necessary!

Medallus Medical has 8 clinics throughout the Salt Lake Valley. Call or go online to find one nearest you.

We’re your community connection.

1-877-633-9110

(801)515-0584 www.MyCityJournals.com

www.medallus.com

Fall Business Conference

Friday, Sept 7 Daylight Donuts ribbon Cutting 3628 West 3500 South – West Valley City

Complete recovery Corp.

1065 West Levoy Drive - Taylorsville

Thank You to our Community Investment Members

CHAMBER OF

7:30am-3pm Utah Cultural Celebration Center

COMMERCE

2018

CHAMBERWEST CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

FALL CONFERENCE UTAH CULTURAL CELEBRATION CENTER • WEST VALLEY CIT Y

Thurl Bailey, Keynote Register by Calling 801-977-8755 or online at

www.ChamberWest.com Page 20 | August 2018

► ► ► ►

2 Keynote presentations 12 Breakout Sessions 8 power presentations Continental Breakfast and Lunch ... And More!

West Valley City Journal

Salt Lake County Council’s

ME SSAGE I

Bringing Opportunity to Distressed SLCO Communities

recently went on a ride-along with a detective from one of our city police departments. I wanted to see firsthand the challenges faced by people living in impoverished neighborhoods in Salt Lake County. It was an eye-opening experience to see how school resources, family life, and neighborhood attributes all can impact the overall success of families in our county. It also motivated me to work harder to help our county residents build better lives for their families.

While there are many policy approaches to improve prospects for Utahns in these kinds of communities, one I want to highlight here is tied to opportunity.

While there’s an appropriate role for government, I believe the best way to fight poverty is to more effectively connect people with economic opportunity. A really exciting new policy tool to do just that is the designation of “Opportunity Zones.”

In a nutshell: an opportunity zone is a census tract with low median household income and high poverty, designated by the Governor as available for incentivized private investment. Investors can put money into these zones to promote new business growth, expand existing businesses, or for real estate development, and get some breaks on their capital gains taxes for doing so.

This is particularly important for areas that have few job opportunities, sluggish business expansion, or affordable housing challenges.

There are three things I love about this.

First: if successful, county residents who are struggling to make ends meet will benefit from increased economic opportunity. That means a they can earn a better life for themselves and their families. I also believe there’s tremendous untapped potential in these communities, and we need these county residents to contribute their passion, ideas, and work ethic to help make Salt

130 Years OF TRUST Taking Care of YOUR FAMILY’S NEEDS

EVERY STEP OF THE WAY.

Aimee Winder Newton County Council District 3

Lake County’s economy even stronger.

Second: this is not an expansion of taxpayer-funded government programs.

Using the strength of the free enterprise system to empower people to improve their lives is always a better option for those who benefit directly, and society overall.

And third: this represents a lot of bipartisan work. South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, and New Jersey Senator Cory Booker worked together on opportunity zones, and gave a great summary to the National Association of Counties in March of this year. Every time Republicans and Democrats can come together as colleagues to find consensus policies to leverage the private sector and create more opportunity for Americans, we ought to laud the success and replicate it.

I appreciate our county economic development team who helped drive this effort in Salt Lake County. They brought a list of proposed zones to the County Council, and we gave our support to send them to Governor Herbert’s office for review before designating the final list of opportunity zones. l

At a time when emotions are tender, receiving guidance by someone who has been around and understands your needs can help you find the perfect service.

Helping Families Heal for Over 130 years Larkin Mortuary 260 East South Temple Salt Lake City, UT 84111 (801) 363-5781

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

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

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

LarkinMortuary.com WVCJournal .com

August 2018 | Page 21

Making sense of cents

T

he importance of saving money has been emphasized ever since I was a child. I was bombarded with the sentiment from my parents, my teachers and from the media. “Save Big” marketing messages have been in my life ever since I have been able to make sense of my senses. Lately, I’ve been wondering why. Why do we need to save money?

As soon as I was old enough to receive a paycheck, my parents told me to put at least 10 percent of it into a savings account, if not more (hopefully one that accrues interest). They always told me to keep a $100 comfort pillow in my primary checking account and to keep a significant safety net.

When I would ask “Why?” their response was always, “In case of an emergency.” What if the car breaks down and you need to pay for a pretty hefty repair? What if you break a part of yourself and need to pay for medical expenses? Saving money was to keep myself out of debt when outstanding situations arose.

In school, we were required to take financial planning classes. We received instruction on how to budget, how to buy a house, how to get the best agreements for car payments, and how to plan for retirement. The essentials

by

CASSIE GOFF

for our personal budgets, right? Buy a car. Buy a house. Save enough to retire on time. Saving money was to maintain a comfortable lifestyle to transport ourselves, shelter ourselves, and take care of ourselves in old age.

As soon as we reproduce, we start saving money for our children.

I’ve always heard that one child costs $20,000 per year, on average. Offspring are expensive. On top of that average support, parents tend to save for their children’s future (aka a college education). Parents also tend to want to leave their children something of merit when they pass.

So, we save money for emergencies, for a comfortable lifestyle, and for our offspring. Besides those canons of saving money, what else do you

buy one fat boy

ORDER ONLINE:

daylightutah.com

get one free!

save money for? What do you put value on? What do you not mind spending full price on and what do you absolutely need a coupon for in order to buy?

It may be food. Some people don’t mind paying money to go out to eat multiple times per week at real restaurants (not fast food joints). Other people will stock pile coupons and go to different grocery stores in order to get the best deals.

It may be clothes. Some people don’t mind paying triple digits to have a specific name or logo on the fabric wrapped around their bodies. Other people buy their jeans from Wal-Mart for $10.

It may be cars. Some people pay for fuel efficiency, or speed, or sporty-looking body styles. Other peo-

ple can’t even imagine paying more than four figures on something that just gets them from point A to point B. It may be family and friends.

Some people will make agreements with family and friends to not exchange gifts. Other people don’t mind spending some cash on their people.

Why are we so driven to save a few dollars here and a few cents there?

Why are we so turned on by sales and big savings tactics? Is it so we can have money for emergency situations?

Or to spend money on things we perceive to have value? Or is it some ideal the marketing industries have driven into us since before we can remember?

Let me know so I don’t feel like I’m just rambling into the ether. l

Bounce Houses & Water Slides

Limit 1 per customer per coupon. Expires 8/31/18.

15%Expires offAugustpurchase 31, 2018 – MADE FRESH DAILY –

4591 South 5600 West • West Valley

801-930-9232

www.AbsDrivein.com

3628 West 3500 South • West Valley City

Buy One Get One 1/2 Off Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 8/31/18.

801-280-4099

7251 Plaza Center Drive (Next to Famous Dave's)

www.SpudToddos.com

Page 22 | August 2018

(801) 968-2130

Have a 12oz coffee on us! limit 1 per customer with coupon

4879 South Redwood Rd Taylorsville, UT 84123 801-288-9898 www.hiddenpeakscoffee.com

$10 off any rental BouncingAroundUtah.com CALL OR TEXT 801.548.5201

Now Hiring

BEAT WRITERS Mention this ad and we will pay of your bill! (bills over $500)

Earn extra cash.

Be involved in the community.

Write for the City Journals.

28 West 700 South • Salt Lake City, UT 84101

Send a resume and writing sample to

$50

801.363.440 rickwarnerbodyshop.com

writers@mycityjournals.com

West Valley City Journal

Life and Laughter—Uncommon Courtesy

Laughter AND

by

PERI KINDER

West Valley

e’ve become an unpleasant people. All the commons, like courtesy, sense, knowledge and good, aren’t nearly as prevalent as they should be. But we’re Americans! We’re resilient! We survived New Coke and the Sony Betamax. We can definitely start using old-fashioned common courtesy.

Making America Great Again should include some of the following: Be Thoughtful Being thoughtful doesn’t have to be inconvenient, like throwing your jacket on top of a mud puddle so I can cross without getting my dainty feet wet. (Disclaimer: I’ve never had dainty feet). Even small actions amp up your kindness cred.

Open doors, smile, give up your seat, wipe down the machines at the gym (you know who you are!!) or offer to carry a bag of groceries. Maybe thoughtfulness means doing something you’d rather not do, like play Yahtzee with your grandson 327 times in a row, watch golf with your husband or help a friend move.

Offer to buy a stranger’s coffee, remember important dates, use manners, write thank you cards and let someone go in front of you at Walmart.

Watching their wary acceptance is pretty hilarious.

Shut up and Listen Have you ever talked to someone and realized their eyes were more glazed than a Krispy Kreme conveyer belt? That means you’ve monopolized the conversation and it’s someone else’s turn to talk. (“Conversation” means two or more people exchanging ideas.) We’re horrible listeners. We interrupt, interject with personal stories, refuse to make eye contact and try to keep that supercool thought in our brain so we can jump right in as soon as the speaker takes a breath.

Calm yourself. Listen to learn. If we already know everything, there’s absolutely no reason to pay attention to someone who’s talking to us. If you agreed with that last sentence, your wife is slowly poisoning you.

Put Down Your Damn Phone We are WAY too invested in our cell phones. I’m not excluding myself.

My husband and I often have this conversation: Tom: Can you put down your phone and watch TV? Me: I’m watching.

Tom: What just happened?

Me: The guy did that one thing to that other guy.

Tom: Hand me your phone.

Me: [Eye roll] Gees, you don’t understand.

PROFESSIONALS

Value HELP WANTED

Now Hiring for part time positions in our

Food Service Department

PLACE AN AD: Call

801-254-5974 HOME REPAIRS

Handy Home Services Electrical, plumbing, drywall, painting, bathroom & kitchen remodeling…

Pay starts at $11.60 per hour.

Call 385-646-4321or go to www.graniteschools.org/foodservices/jobs

NO JOB TOO SMALL Mark Landers 801-641-9644

JANITORIAL/HANDYMAN

Lawn & Landscaping

Commercial & Residential Cleaning and Handyman Service Licensed and Insured Over 50 Years Experience

Call 801-330-4307 YARD SERVICES

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

Call Dan:

801-518-7365

WVCJournal .com

801.867.7800 greg@stronglandscape.com

Professional Lawn Care Services Mowing, Sprinkler Install and Repair Custom Landscaping 17 Years Experience, Licensed & Insured

PAINTING

A PLUS GARAGE DOORS

All Types of Roofing and Gutters Residential and Commercial www.OnCallRoofersInc.com

Call Now: 385-529-1032

Bounce Houses Bounce Crazy Party Rentals

Call Amanda: 385-299-3383

www.bounce-crazy-llc.business.site

CONCRETE WORK

Reasonable Prices, Quality Work, Prompt Service Flat work, Driveways, Patios, RV Pads, Sidwalks, Etc.

Call Dan:

801.518.7365 ROOFING

Call Paul

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

801-819-9158

30+ Years of Experience

801-260-2030

801-449-9875

Licensed & Insured Residential & Commercial.

On Call Roofers

Service Available 24/7 Certified Experts 100% Warrantied

20 Styles to Choose from Non-Water, Water & Bubble Bouncers Complete Set Up and Take Down Other Rentals: Tables, Chairs, Canopies

All types of roofs

are!!)

Every action we take builds or destroys a community. I don’t want to see common courtesy go the way of Freshen Up gum, dodo birds and our democracy. Let’s Make America Pleasant Again. l

Roofing

GARAGE DOORS

-- PROFESSIONAL PAINTER --

Paul Nunley 3rd Generation

Our discourteous cell phone behavior made headlines this spring after a cast member of Hamilton called out audience members in Salt Lake because they wouldn’t turn their phones off during the performance. Good grief! We’ve even irritated the Founding Fathers (again).

Leave your phone in your car, on your shelf or in your fish tank if you’re in a situation that requires decent human behavior.

Be Generous Utahns are notoriously cheap. I mean seriously-perhaps-we-should-be-in-therapy cheap.

I’ve had two daughters who worked in food services. They’ve shared horror stories of impolite guests, demanding drunks and overall poorly behaved people.

Come on, everyone. The wait staff survives off your chintzy tips.

They usually make less than $3 an hour and when you tip $2.75 on a bill of $100, you are a villain.

Don’t be afraid to pry open that creaky, dusty wallet and tip your restaurant servers, hair stylists, pizza guy, Uber driver or dog walker.

Let Drivers Merge for Cryin’ Out Loud Nothing more needs to be said about this one. (You know who you

HANDYMAN SERVICES

ENERGY CORE CONSTRUCTION 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Lic No.7466520-5500

Life

W

basements . bathrooms . electrical repair . painting cabinet installation . plumbing . sheetrock repair countertop refinish and replace

– HOURLY RATE - 2 Hour Minimum –

Call Leo Coleman 801-471-6775

TREE SERVICES

INTERMOUNTAIN TREE EXPERTS

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

801-244-3542 FREE ESTIMATES

Tile and Flooring Powell Tile and Laminate Flooring Tile, Back Splashes, and Bathrooms Laminate Flooring, Finish Work, and Handyman Services Call Chris for a free estimate 801.708.1123

VEHICLES WANTED

Gumby’s Auto Parts We’ll buy your non-running, wrecked or broken car, truck or van.

(801) 506-6098

“It’s worth your time to call!”

FLAT ROOF SPECIALISTS

OLYMPUS ROOFING

801.887.7663 SERVING WASATCH FRONT SINCE 1973

FENCING

AJ Fencing

20+ Years Experience Licensed and Insured All types of Fencing Installs and Repairs Free Estimates

801.471.9688

August 2018 | Page 23

New Donors earn up to $575 in the first 31 days.

Did you know it takes 1,200 plasma donations to supply a Hemophiliac with a year’s supply of medication?

There are approximately 400 families here in Utah with one or more family members suffering from a rare blood disorder. Your plasma donations help to save lives right here in Utah.

GRIFOLS Biomat in Taylorsville 2520 West 4700 South Taylorsville, UT 84129 (801) 965-9160

www.grifolsplasma.com

new Donors BRING THIS COUPON IN FOR A

$20 Bonus on your third donation* Coupon good for the GRIFOLS Biomat in Taylorsville.

*Third donation must be completed within 31 days of the first donation.

Hours of operation for Monday – Thursday: 6:30am – 7:00pm | Friday: 6:30am – 6:30pm Saturday 7:30am – 3:00pm | Sunday: 8:00am – 12:00pm