West Valley Journal December 2018

December 2018 | Vol. 4 Iss. 12

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‘I BEGGED HIM NOT TO KILL ME’

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE NOT JUST PHYSICAL FOR VICTIMS By Travis Barton | travis@mycityjournals.com s Jenny Andrus walked into her home on Aug. 22, 2015, her husband lie in wait. He pistol whipped her, kicked her, beat her with a cleaver, and shot both of her legs, her left elbow and her head taking out an eye. “I begged him to leave me alone,” she recalled. “I begged him not to kill me. He remained emotionally abusive even as he beat me. He blamed me for the situation we were both in. Each time I had to apologize to appease the man who was torturing me.” The mom of three nearly died that day, but lived. Now, she spends her life energy on sharing her terrifying experience with others in order to raise awareness that such physical violence often starts with emotional abuse. Andrus was the guest speaker for West Valley City’s domestic violence program in October (domestic violence awareness month). She spoke surrounded by life-sized silhouettes representing victims from West Valley City whose lives ended violently at the hands of a spouse, ex-spouse, family member or partner. The day they died, what happened to them and their names were pasted to the silhouettes’ chests. Names like Amy, Thai, Noella or Sabrina. Those who were unable to escape the clutches of domestic violence. Emotional abuse, she told the audience, is “mental pain intended to control, to disrupt your footing, question yourself and tear you down from the inside out.” To describe emotional violence, Andrus used intense verbs such as: shame, ridicule, embarrass, demean, belittle. “Any abuse that humiliates is emotional abuse,” she said. “Domestic violence happens in secrecy because its wrapped up in shame and the people who feel shame shouldn’t feel shame,” said Jessie Richards, founder of Fight Against Domestic Abuse. “It’s valuable the more people who are willing to share their story and talk about it, then more will (speak up) and just become an ocean of voices and hopefully it stops at some point.”

One of those voices is Andrus. An associate professor of writing and rhetoric studies at the University of Utah, Andrus has researched domestic violence for the last decade. And Andrus speaks from personal experience. Andrus said the physical violence was preceded by the emotional kind. Her husband would yell profanities at her for hours a day unprovoked. Screaming would ensue if she made a meal wrong or walked in a room at the wrong time. He kept her awake all night, knowing she had work in the morning. He took out credit cards in her name, bought three cars in six months in her name before surrendering them to be repossessed. He used their money on projects leaving little to buy food. “Still it was my fault when we didn’t have steak for dinner,” she recalled. When Andrus approached him with a divorce, he claimed he would kill himself. When he was taken to the hospital for a psych watch, he tried manipulating her to come see him. She filed for a protective order. While hiding with friends and family, she would come home twice a day to feed the dogs with a police escort. But on Aug. 22, 2015, she went alone. Over the course of four hours Andrus was held hostage in her own home, fighting for her life. “The pain was nothing like I had ever felt before,” she said. “I now know the flash a gun makes when its firing, the acrid smell of gun powder and the searing hotness of a bullet ripping through flesh.” SWAT arrived and ended the standoff. But the damage to her body was done, including a broken nose, cracked teeth, facial cuts, gunshot wounds to her elbow and leg, and the loss of her right eye. Also damaged was her sense of security, and hope and knowledge that home was a safe haven. Yet she has “rebuilt (her) life into something beautiful,” she said. That includes her work with FADV as a board member and advocate for domestic abuse victims.

Surrounded by life-size silhouettes of domestic violence victims in West Valley City, Jenny Andrus speaks during a domestic violence program at City Hall. (Travis Barton/City Journals)

“I’ve heard her tell that story 20 times and every time I cry because I remember when it happened,” Richards said. Andrus needs to tell her story, Richards said, because she wants everyone to know victims are always fighting, trying to survive and be strategic about their life experiences. Andrus’ husband was mean, controlling, erratic and unpredictable, Andrus said. But that’s the “tragic, stressful, painful everyday of an abusive relationship.” She highlighted the tragedy of University of Utah student Lauren McCluskey as an example. One of the problems, Andrus said, is there isn’t a place to report emotional abuse. The marks they leave aren’t visible like physical violence. “There is no form that asks if your husband tries to control your every move,” she said. “There’s no form that asks how your wife talks

to you.” She wants people to know that domestic violence escalates in various ways, not just arguments. She wants people to trust victims, especially law enforcement. Victims are only ever trying to survive their abusers. West Valley City has a victim services office with five full-time victim advocates and one part time. You can find it in the public safety building at 3575 South Market Street next to city hall. To contact them call 801-963-3223. The after-hours crisis line is 801-231-8185. “We want (abuse survivors) to know that they’re not fighting alone,” said Rachelle Hill, victim services coordinator. Andrus fought that fateful day she entered her house to feed the dogs. Whether it was for herself then or for others now, she keeps fighting. l

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December 2018 | Page 3

ARTrageous enhances understanding of the arts, different cultures By Sarah Payne | s.payne@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 ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: 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

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n this day, where everything seems to be so materialistic and digitized, the West Valley City ARTrageous program takes it upon itself to expose students and citizens to the richness of the arts and the beauty of other cultures. Owned by West Valley City, the ARTrageous program creates programs, shows and exhibits in order to do this. They gear the programs to students in West Valley schools, but also perform in other parts of the valley upon request.
 A wonderful example of an ARTrageous event is their recent Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration. Two hundred community members participated in the event and students arrived by the busload. Día de los Muertos is a traditional Latin American celebration honoring one’s ancestors and is an extremely important day in the Mexican culture. School groups were invited to participate in a 30-minute tour of the gallery and guest speaker Claudia Benitez, of the Mexican Consul’s office, spoke of her life growing up in Mexico and the traditions of Mexico, such as Día de los Muertos. Guest artist Francis Rogers, a traditional Mexican paper flower artist, led students in a hands-on activity. She demonstrated how to make a traditional Mexican paper flower, then guided participants to help them make one to take home.
 As part of the exhibition, the students were taken outside the gallery to look at the Olmec head statue on display. The Olmecs were an ancient Central American tribe, along with such tribes as the Aztecs and Mayans. The Olmec head, weighing about seven tons, was a gift to West Valley City from the governor of Veracruz, Mexico as a symbol of the Mexican culture thriving in the city today.
 “The ARTrageous program seeks to engage kids through the public school system in artistic enrichment activities that enhance their learning,” said Susan Klinker of ARTrageous. “We use core curriculum to bring their learning to life.”
 The ARTrageous program also does an annual sculpture show that connects with the Face

Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration. (Photo by June A. Knight)

of Utah sculpture exhibit. This exhibit is the largest in the state, unusual among traditional art shows because the show is unjuried. Rather than a competition, it is simply meant to display participants’ art. In connection with this event, ARTrageous holds an exhibition of these works, in which they guide participants, often summer camp groups, through the gallery in order for them to be able to see the artwork on display. It is a stimulating 45-minute tour, in which participants discuss the pieces asking such questions as what medium was used and what they think the artist was trying to convey. The tour is followed by a hands-on activity in which the children get a chance to try making their own 3D art. In addition to exhibits, ARTrageous hosts a variety of performances and concerts. One such performance celebrates the traditions and

culture of the Pacific islands put on by a group known as Island Traditions. In spring of 2019, a musical workshop is planned in connection with Granger and Hunter High Schools with the West Valley City Orchestra. ARTrageous partners with other local arts organizations as well. In an event known as Middle East Explorations, a guest speaker from the Islamic Speakers Bureau talks about Islam, followed by a question and answer session to enhance understanding of Muslim beliefs and culture.
 Klinker has been a part of the program since its inception some 12 years ago. “It’s been wonderful,” she said. “It’s wonderful to work with so many diverse artists in the community, so many art forms and help kids gain an appreciation for art. We’re always trying to bring curriculum to life through experience of the arts.” l

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West Valley City Journal

Christmas International: Trees of Diversity exhibit at Cultural Center By Travis Barton | travis@mycityjournals.com

From Anna Cutler, this Christmas tree honors her mother “and Oma,” Machtalina Antoinette Cutler. On the tree are found various memories of her including making Dutch pancakes, “Elevenses,” making windmill cookies and serving meals of baked bread and Gouda, named after a Dutch city, cheese on Oma’s blue dishes. (Travis Barton/City Journals)

From the Kulturang Pilipino Ensemble of Utah, the deep blue and green hues complement the shells found on many of the 7,000-plus Philippine islands. This tree can be found right next to the entranceway at the Utah Cultural Celebration Center (1355 W. 3100 South). (Travis Barton/City Journals)

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Donated by the Utah Tibetan Association, this Christmas tree features Tibetan prayer flags, meant to offer peaceful blessings. A quote from the Dalai Lama adorns the tree: “Every day, think as you wake up…I am going to benefit others as much as I can.” (Travis Barton/City Journals)

Found in the lower tier of the Utah Cultural Celebration Center (1355 W. 3100 South), the Christmas tree from the West Valley City Historical Society features photos of Granger from a previous generation. (Travis Barton/ City Journals)

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December 2018 | Page 5

WVC native, former mayor, helps spruce up beloved Jordan River By Travis Barton | travis@mycityjournals.com

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or Amy Smith, the Jordan River is twofold. An outdoor oasis away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. But also a hallway for suspicious activity. “It’s such a special trail. It just,” she said, pausing a second before continuing, “has its smudge marks.” Smith rides her bike along the trail with her boyfriend regularly. She occasionally runs the trail with a friend or two. She hopes to float the river at some point. She’s just nervous about the river’s future. “I’ve seen drug deals happen along here and with the new shelter coming in, you kinda can’t help but wonder if it’ll get worse,” she said. The shelter she’s referring to is the incoming Homeless Resource Center being built in South Salt Lake at 1144 W. 3300 South, adjacent to the Jordan River. Cleaning up the Jordan River and mitigating the resource center’s impact on the river is just what Rep. Mike Winder hoped to do when he sponsored HB 216 that passed earlier this year. Winder said he was concerned when the center’s location was announced in 2017, so he “looked for an opportunity to make lemonade out of lemons.” Out of that lemon came the Jordan River Recreation Area, a zone created by the legislature. It goes from state road 201(informal-

ly known as the 21st South freeway) to about 4500 South, two miles north and south from the resource center and about 250 yards on both sides of the river. Legislation passed in HB 216 means that $1 million is allocated to the area with an ongoing $500,000 each year. Winder was excited to see the state step up to help. “For years as a community we’ve turned our backs to the Jordan river, and it’s almost been more of a liability than an asset,” Winder said. “And in recent years there’s been a lot of positive work by the cities along the river, the Jordan River Commission and Salt Lake County to try to turn that around.” Funding comes from the state’s Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands, with those officials acting on what the Jordan River Commission recommends. Winder said half the money goes to recreational improvements within the zone such as trails, bike rentals, boat rentals and picnic pavilions. “The more positive activities you attract to an area, that scares out the negative elements,” he said. “Whether it’s illegal camping, drug use, prostitution, vandalism. The negative aspects.” The rest of the money would go towards public safety for the entire river corridor. This includes removing invasive species such as Russian olives and phragmites (common invasive reeds). “Frankly those are a lot of the ar-

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Rep. Mike Winder stands on the Pioneer Crossing Bridge he helped bring to fruition. The bridge crosses the Jordan River, which will see additional funding after Winder sponsored a bill during the legislation this past year. (Travis Barton/City Journals)

eas where people hide out to do some illegal things,” Winder said. Additionally, money would be available for partnering with off-duty police officers and local police to beef up law enforcement in the area. There is also money to work on a river ranger program with University of Utah and Salt Lake Community College students to help patrol the river. Winder said some money will go towards helping Tracy Aviary start an education center near 3300 South and 1100 West near James Madison Park, along with a bike rental program. “We really want to encourage activity on the river,” Winder said. Hearing those plans excites Smith, a lover of the outdoors. “Protecting this area should be a priority,” she said. “Nature being a few steps away from my front door is what makes Utah unique.” One outdoor activity would be floating or kayaking the river. Earlier this year ChamberWest hosted an event where prominent members of the community — including elected officials such as Winder, Salt Lake County Mayor Ben McAdams and West Valley City Mayor Ron Bigelow —kayaked the new Jordan River Recreation Area between SR-201 and 4500 South. “It was actually a really special opportunity for me to see firsthand the potential of

what could be,” Winder recalled. “Yes, we saw a shopping cart in the river and saw some trash, but we also saw some beautiful areas…It was really exciting and I think that you have something that close to home, we need to look for ways to open that up to more families to come enjoy.” Salt Lake County officials recently announced plans to create a new park along the Jordan River between 201 and 4500 South. The County will partner with South Salt Lake, West Valley City and Tracy Aviary. Extra special to Winder is the river area adjacent to the Utah Cultural Celebration Center. In 2013, while mayor of West Valley City, Winder helped oversee the construction of Pioneer Crossing Bridge — a swaying suspension bridge that connects the cultural center to the Jordan River Parkway. A historical marker plaque can be found next to the bridge, built by Winder’s son as part of an eagle project. It all adds up to a singular location for Winder, a West Valley City native. And extra motivation to ensure the river’s majesty is maintained. “As the Salt Lake valley fills up with people, it’s more important than ever to have recreational opportunities and outdoor opportunities close to home,” Winder said. “And when you come along the Jordan River Parkway, it’s a strip of wilderness in the midst of an urban valley. It’s really special that way.” l

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West Valley City Journal

West Valley City honors those who fought for country By Sarah Payne | s.payne@mycityjournals.com

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ov. 11, 1918. This was a day forever known in history as the day our weapons were lowered, our countrymen spared, and our future safeguarded as the first World War, which cost so many lives to fight, ended. Today, we remember this day worldwide. It goes by many names — Remembrance Day, Armistice Day to name a few — but its purpose is always the same. Veterans’ Day is for remembering those who bravely stood in arms throughout history and fought to be kept free from oppression. On Nov. 12, 2018, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of the war, West Valley City residents and officials took part in a dinner and ceremony honoring those who stood selflessly in defense of our country. Veterans from conflicts such as the Vietnam War, the Cold War, and Desert Storm gathered in the Utah Cultural Celebration Center. It was the public’s chance to say thank you, show the respect and honor men and women for the sacrifices they have made. Mayor Ron Bigelow, who is a Vietnam veteran of the Air Force, as well as several city councilors were in attendance. Nancy Day is the Parks and Recreation Director for West Valley City. Instituted about five years ago, the program is a free event for veterans, their families, and any citizen who wish to participate. It includes a catered dinner for all attendees before the program begins. “It’s to acknowledge them,” Day ex-

plained. “It’s to thank them for their service, their sacrifice, and their families for their service and sacrifice as well, for supporting their spouses, children, siblings...That’s really what it is, is for us to give them a thank you.”
 The program began with a Fallen Warrior Ceremony, read by Sgt. Robert Brinton, to commemorate all those who, for whatever reason, should be with us but are lost, including prisoners of war, missing in action, or killed in action. A table, sitting in front of the audience, was decorated in a specific way — an empty chair, a rose, a Bible, among others — all symbolizing some part of the sacrifice made by these brave soldiers. A moment of silence followed to remember those brothers and sisters no longer here. Veterans stood in solemn remembrance of their own comrades in arms. After a welcome by Bigelow and the flag ceremony and pledge of allegiance, a patriotic performance was given by the Salt Lake Men’s Choir. Amid songs such as “My Country” and “‘Tis of Thee,” a slideshow of the veterans present was shown, with each person’s picture, branch of service, and the conflict in which they served. Brigadier General Dallen S. Atack, who served in the U.S. army for 32 years, was the keynote speaker. He spoke of the day we still remember. “It’s very fitting,” he said, “that this year we are recognizing the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I... It shook the nations of the world...It cost over 20 million lives, mil-

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as a celebration for those who made it possible. We remember the brave men and women.” After he spoke, attending veterans were publicly acknowledged and given a gift. Bigelow spoke of plans to build an indoor memorial for these brave men and women, a $3 million project they’re working toward. “It’s important to honor our veterans because it reminds us why we’re a free nation,” he said. “America is the shining beacon of hope and freedom in the world.” l

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itary and civilian — and then the Armistice, to end the war, was signed ending the hostilities on the 11th hour.”
 He then spoke of why we celebrate Veteran’s Day. “It was originally a celebration for the silencing of the cannons of World War I,” Atack said. “Now it marks a day when nations around the globe pause in solemn remembrance and in silence to remember the heroism of those who have served, and those who have died as part of their country’s service. We do not mark this day as a celebration of any certain victory, but rather

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West Valley City honored veterans on Nov. 12 at the Utah Cultural Celebration Center. (Sarah Payne/City Journals)

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he holidays are right around the corner and there are plenty of things to do in the Salt Lake Valley. Many of them are free. Here’s a list of activities that won’t put a dent in your budget and will provide fun for all. Herriman’s Night of Lights: Monday, Dec. 3 from 5-9 p.m. at City Hall and Crane Park (5355 W. Herriman Main St.). There will be a gingerbread contest, a visit with Santa, the tree lighting, a candy cane hunt, holiday crafts, food trucks, performances by Herriman Harmonyx and Herriman Orchestra, photo ops, and ice skating. There is a fee for ice skating (weather permitting), but everything else is free. Draper’s Candy Cane Hunt: Monday, Dec. 10 from 4-5 p.m. at the Draper Historic Park (12625 S. 900 East). This is a free family event sponsored by the Draper Parks and Recreation Department. Children ages 3-6 will hunt for thousands of candy canes that are scattered around the park and hidden in bushes and trees. Santa and Mrs. Claus will also arrive on a fire truck and will be available for photos under the gazebo. While you are in Draper, don’t forget to check out Draper’s Tree of Light (or sometimes called The Tree of Life), which is a big willow tree in the middle of Draper City Park (12500 S. 1300 East). This tree is decorated with more than 65,000 lights. Draper City first lit the tree for the Christmas season in 2008 and each year more lights have been added. The lights turn on at dusk and stay on until midnight everyday until New Years. This has become a popular holiday destination for people statewide. Gingerbread House Contest in South Jordan: Gingerbread houses will be on display in the Gale Center Auditorium (10300 S. Beckstead Lane) from Nov. 27-Dec. 6 for People’s Choice Award voting. The hours are Tuesday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Light the Night at the South Jordan City: On Friday, Dec. 7 from 6:30-8 p.m. at the South Jordan City Plaza at 1600 W. Towne Center Drive. There will be pictures with Santa, hot cocoa, gingerbread houses, the unveiling of the candy windows display featuring artists Jennifer Vesper and Krista Johansen. Visit Santa on Towne Center Drive in South Jordan: On Dec. 7 from 6:30-8 p.m., Dec. 8 from 3-5 p.m., Dec. 14 from 6-8 p.m., Dec. 15 from 3-5 p.m., Dec. 21 from 6-8 p.m., and Dec. 22 from 3-5 p.m. (1600 W. Towne Center Drive) Riverton’s Holly Days in the Park: On Nov. 26, 30 and Dec. 1 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Riverton City Park, large pavilion, 1452 W. 12600 South. This free family event includes: the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus on a fire engine, hot chocolate and warm buttery scones, and walking through the park reading from the

Two boys sit on the laps of Santa and Mrs. Claus during Holly Days at the Riverton City Park. (Photo credit Angie Meine)

giant-sized storybook pages of “T’was the Night Before Christmas.” There will also be vendor booths so visitors can get some holiday shopping done. Christmas Night of Music: This 3rd annual event will be on Dec. 15 from 6-8 p.m. at the Riverton High School auditorium and will be a night filled with a community choir of over 100 voices and a local orchestra. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Riverton High School is located at 12476 S. Silverwolf Way. This is a free event. Salt Lake City: If you are downtown celebrating the season be sure to drop by and look at Macy’s holiday candy window displays at City Creek Center. Also in Salt Lake City, on Dec. 17 is the 32nd Annual Christmas Carol Sing-Along at the Vivint Smart Home Arena. This free event will be filled with holiday music and fun. There will be musical numbers by the Bonner Family. This event starts at 7 p.m. Santa Is Coming to Town in West Jordan: On Thursday, Dec. 20 from 6-8 p.m. there will be a craft, a coloring station, story time with Mrs. Claus, hot cocoa and cookies, carolers, and a visit with Santa. Santa will be arriving at 6 p.m. sharp so don’t be late. This event will be located in the City Hall Community Room at 8000 S. Redwood Road. Saturday with Santa: Christmas Around

the World: On Saturday, Dec. 8 from 2 to 4 p.m. families can come visit with Santa, enjoy food tasting from places around the world, crafts and games and entertainment. This event is free and is sponsored by Taylorsville Preservation Committee and will be held at the Taylorsville Bennion Heritage Center, 1488 W. 4800 South in Murray. Back for the second year at The Shops at South Town in Sandy is Chistmas in the Wizarding World. Step into the world of a wintry Hogsmeade village that features unique merchandise from the “Fantastic Beasts” and “Harry Potter” films. It is free to walk through and will be opened from now until Jan. 21. Even though it is not free, there is another activity in Sandy that is inexpensive when it comes to ticket prices. The Dickens’ Christmas Festival at the Mountain America Exposition Center (9575 S. State Street) is produced and organized by Olde World Historical Council and claims to be a “unique and unusual entertainment and shopping experience.” From fortune tellers, to old English shops, the “real” Father Christmas, period costumes, street theater, puppet shows, a mini-production of “Scrooge” and visits from the Spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Future. Ticket prices are $3.50 for children and $5.50 for adults. l

West Valley City Journal

Winter driving safety: Snow falls and you slow down

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he long line at the local auto body shop isn’t just for oil changes, it’s for winter tires too. With temperatures dropping and leaves soon to follow, it’s time for a refresher course on safe winter driving. 1) Know the conditions Technology affords us the privilege of knowing road conditions before ever leaving the house. Utah Department of Transportation has more than 2,200 traffic cameras or sensors which gives visuals and data on all major UDOT roads. Drivers can then adjust their routes or schedules according to the heaviness of traffic making for less congestion and less risk for accidents. The UDOT app means you can see all those cameras from your phone. Twitter feeds also provide alerts about traffic situations throughout the state, including roads up the canyon. Unified Police have a canyon alerts Twitter page for to update traffic in Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons as well as tire requirements and road closures. 2) Prepare the car Make sure the car is prepared for the road conditions, first with good tires. Snow tires give greater tread for better traction. If only two new tires are placed on the car, make sure to put them in the rear. With the falling snow, it’s necessary to have quality wiper blades that ensures clear views rather than leaving water streaks across windshield impairing your ability to drive. The wiper

fluid reservoir also needs to be replenished before the first snows hit. Snow and ice should be completely removed from the windows, headlights and taillights prior to driving to ensure visibility. If your car is parked outside overnight, place towels over the windows. This keeps the windows from icing over. A system should be in place to check everything in your car such as the battery power and your cooling system. Antifreeze helps the vehicle withstand the freezing temperatures. The vehicle should also be stocked with safety items in the case of an emergency. The Utah Department of Public Safety suggests on its website to have jumper cables, a tow rope and small shovel in case the car gets stuck, reflectors or flares to make sure your car is visible to others driving, flashlight and batteries, extra winter clothes, first-aid kit, battery or solar powered radio, sleeping bag, fresh water and non-perishable food, paper towels and hand warmers. 3) Control the vehicle Keeping the car under control requires some safe driving tips. The most obvious: drive slow. Despite our impatience or urgency to get to the desired location, slow driving is the safest driving. Staying under the speed limit, which is meant for ideal conditions, becomes even more important when traveling over snow, ice, standing water or slush. In drivers education courses, prospective

drivers learn about the rule for distance between your car and the one in front of you. Driving 60 mph? Stay six car lengths back. 70 mph? Seven car lengths back. This distance should be increased even more during wet conditions to allow the car time and space to stop without rear ending the vehicle in front. All movements should be gradual rather than sudden. This means avoiding sharp turns, accelerating slowly and braking softly. Though you may have four-wheel drive or even all-wheel drive, this does not give license to drive recklessly in winter conditions. This means staying off cruise control as well. The need for seat belts increases tenfold during the winter. With car seats, place coats or blankets around the children after strapping them in. Coats can limit the effectiveness of a car seat. Stay alert. Deer become more active after storms. Black ice causes many crashes and that ice typically looks like wet spots. If skidding does take place, steer in the direction the back of the car is going and ease off the gas. Remember to keep the gas tank at least halfway full, it will keep the gas tank from freezing and if you get stuck in a traffic jam, you may need as much gas as possible. 4) Time For those of you who struggle with punctuality, this becomes paramount. Giving yourself plenty of time to reach your destination means you won’t rush, decreasing the chances of a crash. l

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December 2018 | Page 9

Salt Lake County’s 2019 Budget Makes Wise Investments with No Tax Increase

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he most important function of the Salt Lake County Council is passing an annual budget to fund the myriad of important functions for our residents. Each fall, the Mayor presents his proposed budget to the council. Council members and staff take the subsequent weeks to look through the budget and make any important changes before adopting a final county budget. The final budget vote is scheduled for December 4th. My priority for every budget process is the same, and I ask the following questions of each expenditure or proposal we review: 1) Is this the proper role of county government? 2) Does this

invest in an area that will save taxpayer money in the long run? 3) Does this needlessly duplicate efforts already under way by another entity? 4) Is this the highest and best use of these dollars? This year, just as in 2018, I again made it clear during budget deliberations that I would not support a final budget that exceeded the total dollar amount proposed by the Mayor. The reason is that growth in spending, even if marginal on a year over year basis, contributes to the growth of government and eats into our fund balance (savings account). We must have a top threshold over which we won’t go in order to do our best to limit government growth while still

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investing in important areas. It’s also important that we make wise investments in our county to preserve the quality of life our residents expect and deserve. That’s why I’m pleased this budget makes additional investments in our criminal justice system (through more prosecutors as well as resources for indigent defense) to keep our community safe. We’ve also set aside additional funding to fully open the Oxbow Jail to we have a place to house people who shouldn’t be on the streets. This year we also invested in additional trails and open space, and in our cultural amenities with things like the Midvalley Performing Arts Center. We know that our library system is

one of our county’s greatest treasures, and this year we are greenlighting a new library in the southwest part of the valley, a rebuild of the Kearns library, and a remodel of the Holladay library. I’m also very glad to say that we’ve done all this without a tax increase this year. Being wise stewards of public dollars and making smart investments in the future of Salt Lake County is vital. My goal is to always ensure that every taxpayer dollar we spend is used wisely, efficiently, and allocated through a transparent process. I’m excited for what 2019 has in store for Salt Lake County! l

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Page 10 | December 2018

West Valley City Journal

World Cup short track speed skating inspires young athletes By Greg James | gregj@mycityjournals.com

Short track speed skater Thomas Hong finished fourth in the 1000m semifinals at the ISU World Cup short track speed skating at the Utah Olympic Oval. (Greg James/City Journals)

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he World Cup of short track speed skating slid into the Utah Olympic Oval. As the athletes sped around the ice, future Olympic hopefuls stood on the sidelines watching and learning from the best. “It is really cool to see these very good skaters,” Will Valentine, a volunteer at the event said. Valentine is a 17-year-old local long track speed skater. He sat wide eyed on the sidelines watching the speed and technique of the World Cup participants. He was working as an on-track volunteer, a member of a crew of 10 other local skaters. His job is to repair the ice and replace the turn markers, sometimes during competition. “That is what is great about this,” Utah Olympic Park Sports Director Derek Parra said. “Some of these athletes were once on the pads (volunteers). They have come up through the ranks and are now winning on the world scene. I am a lucky guy to be able to come here every day.” The Utah Olympic Oval was built as part of the Salt Lake 2002 Winter Olympics. Utah has the only stand-alone Olympic facilities still in operation. (Calgary facilities belong to the college which still operates them.) “I think this facility is a bright beacon,” Parra said. “I cannot imagine growing up here and having this in my backyard. To have a world-class facility with world-class events. It gives these kids a chance to look outside the box and see what they could be in the future.” The International Skating Union World Cup held Nov. 9-11 at the Oval had athletes from 27 countries. The event was the second on the World Cup schedule.

WestValleyJ ournal.com

“This is incredible. The Olympics are coming back. The Utah Olympic Legacy board has seen the vision of what we need to do to keep this facility alive, but also share them with the public. We have youth hockey, curling for the adults and public skating. It makes it possible for anyone to get into the door and share the ice with Olympians and future Olympians,” Parra said. The World Cup event showcased some of the fastest skaters in the world. American Maamey Biney advanced to the semifinals in the women’s 1500. The 18 year old took up short track skating in 2006 when her figure skating coach told her she was going too fast. She has recently moved to Salt Lake to be closer to her training home. “I am really happy and excited to be skating here on our ice,” Biney said. She qualified for the 2018 Olympics in Pyeongchang and said she hopes to prepare to skate in the Olympics again. “I am going to work harder so that next time I can be on a podium. If that is in China (2022) or wherever the Olympics are in eight years,” Biney said. The facility is open to residents for recreational use as well as the international events. Valentine trains with his local teammates six days a week. As a student at the Winter Sports Schoo l in Park City he said, “I hope to one day to be skating in events like this.” “There are people that don’t want to skate they just come to the Oval to watch the skating,” Parra said. “The Olympic spirit is great. We are excited to do everything we can every day to pass on the values to the youth and adults.” l

December 2018 | Page 11

City lawyer, detective both receive special awards from US attorney By Travis Barton | travis@mycityjournals.com

Yvette Rodier and David Black each received a street sign in their name as part of the employee of the month awards. They also received commendations from the US Attorney’s Office. (Travis Barton/City Journals)

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very month a West Valley City employee earns an employee of the month award. But not every month do they also receive an award from the United States Attorney’s Office. That’s what happened for Deputy Prosecutor Yvette Rodier and Detective David Black. John Huber, United States attorney for district of Utah, presented two awards he said are not awarded often: a significant contribution to public safety award to Black and Department of Justice plaque to Rodier. “These are extraordinary professionals,” Huber said during the award presentation at a West Valley City Council meeting Nov. 20. Rodier and Black were recognized for the work they did with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. West Valley City partners with USAO that rotates city prosecutors and detectives through the office. During Rodier’s year with USAO as a special assistant United States attorney saw her obtain indictments against 57 offenders. Many of those cases were brought to her by Black. Of the 57 offenders, 23 were known gang members, 18 were drug dealers, 22 domestic violence abusers, two illegal aliens and three who were involved in shootings. “It’s absolutely incredible productivity,” Huber said, noting that is more than he’s ever

Page 12 | December 2018

done in a year. “It’s hard to prove a negative, but we are confident when we say that the prosecutions Ms. Rodier brought, saved people’s lives.” Huber highlighted Black’s contributions over his three years working with the USAO. Black brought 59 federal gun cases to justice, Huber said. Thirty-five of those defendants spent 1,442 months in federal prison – or 120 years. “(That’s) 120 safe years for our community,” he said. “These are the worst of the worst defenders. These are the people that bring down our quality of life.” For Rodier and Black, they’re simply fulfilling their duties. “I never looked at the numbers,” Rodier said. “That wasn’t my goal to get numbers, it was how much work can I do, how can I protect the city…This is beyond anything I ever expected, I was just doing my job. Getting an award for just doing your job? Not bad.” Black echoed those sentiments. “It’s my job,” he said of his reaction to receiving the award. “It’s nothing special or out of the way, just doing what I’m supposed to be doing.” Black is assigned to the Project Safe Neighborhood Task Force with USAO. Their

focus is federal gun crimes. What Black does is take any gun case in West Valley City and screens it to see if it would be better prosecuted federally. “That’s why West Valley citizens want us up there because we’re able to keep these guys and girls with guns off the street longer, from committing crime some more,” he said. It’s all about “finding people who weren’t supposed to have guns and keeping them away from guns, getting them off the street,” like gang members, drug dealers and felons, Rodier said. In addition to her award from Huber, Rodier also received a United States Attorney award from former Attorney General Jeff Sessions. Brian Embley is the resident agent in charge with the ATF, or Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. He said the work of these two award winners were impactful. “Our partnerships with the West Valley prosecutor’s office and the police department is unmatched,” Embley said. “It makes an impact on the community, it takes people who are violent and puts them away in federal prison so they can’t reoffend.”l

West Valley City Journal

SPOTLIGHT

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Business Spotlights are a service offered to our advertisers to help them inform our readers about their businesses. For information on scheduling a Spotlight, please call us at 801-254-5974 or email us at ryan.casper@mycityjournals.com

Home Health Care: Assisting people with their health care needs while they remain in their own home is what home health care is all about. Home Health Care services are provided under the supervision of your physician and are available 24 hours a day. The type of services provided by home care vary but may include some of the following: Nursing assessment Medication management and teaching Wound care Diabetic instruction and care Dietary teaching Bowel and catheter care Drawing blood damples I.V. therapy Tube feeding Pain control/management Rehabilitation services Transfer and gait training Strengthening exercises Emotional support

Financial community resources counseling Someone may receive home health care in any place you call home. This may include your own home, your relative’s home, retirement centers and assisted living centers (some restrictions apply with home health aide services). Home health care has even been provided in hotel rooms when a patient is staying locally to recuperate before returning home. A patient may decide to stay locally after surgery and then return home to another city. Home health care may be provided in both places as long as patient continues to require skilled care and remains homebound. Home health care is paid by a variety of sources. Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance companies and social services organizations cover qualifying home care services. Home health care requires a physician’s order unless a person is paying privately for home health aide services. After getting an order from a physician, a nurse may assess the prospective patient’s eligibility for home health care. Home health care is for people

who can manage safely in their homes. If a patient lacks the proper facilities, the ability to get meals or does not have a regular support system, a different level of care may be needed. This may include assisted living centers or skilled nursing facilities. Hospice: Hospice assists individuals, their families and/ or caregivers, achieve the best quality of life through physical, emotional and spiritual care during a life-limiting illness. Hospice patients choose to focus on cares directed toward comfort, not a cure for the illness. Hospice is comprised of health care professionals and volunteers who together form a caring community helping individuals and their families facing a life-limiting illness. It differs from traditional medical interventions by providing support and care for persons in the last phases of illness so they can live as fully and comfortably as possible with life-affirming dignity. A patient on hospice does not have to be “home bound,” and is encouraged, if able, to get out and participate in activities and functions they enjoy. Hospice is for all age groups, including children, adults, and the elderly. The vision of hospice is to profoundly enhance the end of life for the dying person by ensuring access to exceptional quality care. The services provided by a hospice agency include the following:

Doctor and nursing services Skilled professional pain and symptom management Emotional, spiritual, financial and bereavement support services Medications related to the life limiting illness/comfort Home health aide Short-term inpatient care to manage symptoms Respite services 24-hour on-call doctor and nursing availability Dietary counseling Physical, occupational and speech therapy as needed to enhance quality of life Trained volunteer services Medication management and education Standard durable medical equipment Medical and incontinent care supplies Bereavement follow-up Assistance with accessing community resources, preparing medical directives, medical power of attorney, medical treatment plans and funeral planning Like home care, hospice services are paid for in a few different ways: Medicare (Part A), Medicaid, Health Insurance, and Private Pay. Additionally, Hospice services can be provided in patients’ homes, skilled nursing facilities, hospitals, assisted living centers, residential care facilities or wherever the patient calls home. l

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December 2018 | Page 13

State Department of Public Safety welcomes new commissioner By Carl Fauver | carlf@mycityjournals.com

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ne of his earliest memories as a young boy growing up in Delta is of a “different sounding” telephone ring. New Utah Commissioner of Public Safety Jess Anderson said that “funny” ring was possibly the first thing to inspire him to dedicate his life to public service and emergency response. “My dad served for several years on the volunteer fire department in Delta,” Anderson explained. “This was before cell phones and pagers. Back then, they hooked up our phone so it had a different ring when it was a fire call. So, I associate that distinctive ring with my dad hurrying to the phone and then racing off to fight fires. I guess that is the first thing that taught me how critical it is for people to be willing to act quickly in an emergency to help others.” Last summer, when 31-year law enforcement professional Keith Squires tendered his resignation as DPS commissioner, Governor Gary Herbert also acted quickly in tapping Anderson to assume the post. “Jess Anderson is a respected leader in our law enforcement community and I have immense trust and faith in him,” Herbert said. “I look forward to working with him and I believe he will make wise decisions when it comes to public safety.” For Anderson, the move to the state Public Safety Department headquarters in Taylorsville (4501 S. 2700 West) is a kind of “coming home” in his law enforcement career. “I was attending Utah Valley State College (now Utah Valley University) back in 1999 when I knew I wanted to pursue a law enforcement career,” Anderson said. “So, I decided to start in on my police academy training. I did not have a job yet, so I had to self-fund it. Back then the academy was held out of this same (Taylorsville DPS headquarters) building. “I am familiar with this area. I remember jogging the streets around here while attending the academy. So, coming back here feels a

Page 14 | December 2018

little like home. It’s a great place. People are so friendly. So many of them have dropped off goodies or just stopped by to say ‘hi.’ It feels a little like coming home.” The Police Officer Standards and Practice (POST) academy has since moved to Sandy. And Anderson said he has observed much bigger changes in Utah law enforcement over those past 19 years as well. “We used to have hundreds of people show up for officer candidate testing — many, many more than we could ever hire,” Anderson continued. “It was very competitive to become a police officer. But now, due to changes in retirement benefits, and some of the negative police coverage in the media, we often don’t even get enough people testing for the number of positions we have available.” However, despite that trend, Anderson noted that the number of Utah Highway Patrol troopers has grown by more than 10 percent in just the past year, from 425 to 475. “We have hired 103 new troopers this year alone,” he said. “About half of those were due to attrition, while the other half are new positions.” Nearly all of that growth, Anderson said, is due to the UHP’s on-going assistance in downtown Salt Lake policing, as a part of Operation Rio Grande. “I was a UHP major and assistant superintendent when the governor asked us to assist Salt Lake Police (August 2017) with Operation Rio Grande,” Anderson said. “We assigned 84 UHP troopers to assist in cleaning up the area for the first three weeks. We still maintain 50 to 55 officers there each week. Six to eight troopers are visible in the area at any given time.” And Anderson said it has worked. “It’s a complete night and day difference now,” he said. “You no longer see drug needles strewn around on the ground. People are starting to take their families back into the area. It

New Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner Jess Anderson has come full circle, returning to the same Taylorsville site where he attended the police officer training academy a generation ago. (Utah Department of Public Safety)

has been largely successful and we are committed to keeping lawlessness out of that area.” As DPS commissioner, Anderson oversees the UHP, State Bureau of Investigation, State Crime Lab, Statewide Information and Analysis Center, Bureau of Criminal Identification, State Fire Marshal’s Office, Division of Emergency Management, Peace Officer Standards and Training, Driver License Division and Highway Safety Division. Utah DPS provides statewide public safety services and employs more than 1,500 employees. The 1994 Delta High School graduate earned a bachelor’s degree a few years after

being hired by the Utah Highway Patrol in February 2000. Anderson also earned a master’s degree at Weber State University two years ago. Anderson and his wife have three girls and two boys, ages 5 to 18, and make their home in Eagle Mountain. “I am so grateful for the support our Department of Public Safety receives,” Anderson concluded. “The legislature and local governments are very positive to work with. I have not come across the anti-police sentiments we sometimes see in other parts of the country. I credit that to the good people of Utah and the values we live by. Taking this job is the honor of a lifetime.” l

West Valley City Journal

Redwood Elementary principal receives human rights award By Lindsey Baxter | l.baxter@mycityjournals.com

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olynn Koehler is easily identifiable to the community as Redwood Elementary’s principal but also as someone involved in her students’ lives. Koehler has been the principal of Redwood Elementary for four years and has worked diligently to coordinate and execute numerous programs and community initiatives that support the diverse student population. Her efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. The Utah School Counselors Association recently recognized her with the Human Rights Award, which recognizes educators, counselors, and community members who actively promote and facilitate human rights projects and activities. Koehler was one of a few individuals who received this honor. Koehler has been in education for 31 years spending the majority of her career teaching first and fourth grade. She gave credit to her staff including two social workers, a school psychologist, wonderful teachers and office staff who all support the students. “The office staff helps coordinates all sorts of Christmas things. We usually have Granger High donating Christmas trees and have the hallway lined with trees where families can come and take pictures. The school helps lots and lots of families during the holiday season,” Koehler said. One project she is proud of is the school’s calm room. “If you have kids in your class that are getting angry about something or need time to settle down before you talk to them about something, or disturbing the class when other students are trying to learn, you can send them to the calm room and there are adults there that can help them to either practice things to calm down like breathing and mindfulness or facilitate a conflict resolution if its more than one student or talk them through what to do in the future if they have made a mistake,” she said. Another initiative that Koehler has started is to make sure that all the basic needs are met for all students. All of her students receive free breakfast in the classroom and she says that they received a grant this year in which everybody gets lunch for free as well. All students, no matter who they are, come to school knowing they will have breakfast and lunch. They also partner with the Utah Food Bank who comes once a month to deliver food to those families that are in need. Nancy Sanchez, the school community outreach/parent liaison, has been working at Redwood Elementary for 16 years and has children who attend Redwood Elementary. She said, “I think everything that she has built has been great within our community. Every parent likes to come and feel comfortable talking to her and she is very caring and understanding. “The parents from the Parent Center love her. She is very understanding and dedicated with our parents. She wants to make sure that every parent is welcome to our school and they feel good to come in,” Sanchez said.

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Seminar Dates: December 11th at 6:00 pm Principal Jolynn Koehler receiving her USCA Human Rights award. (Photo courtesy Jolynn Koehler)

Elizabeth Cervantes, an employee of the school who also works with the YMCA in the afterschool program, said she sees the impact of the principal’s actions on the kids the most. “The way she’s been working with the kids, the parents, it’s awesome,” Cervantes said. She loves that she can notice a student needs new shoes and she can just send them to the office and the office staff knows exactly what to do and the community loves this about the school as well. The cafeteria was filled with laughter on a Friday afternoon while the afterschool program was being held. Two of the students, Erin and Julian, were a little shy, but had great things to say about Redwood Elementary and their principal. Erin, a fifth-grader, said, “My principal is not super strict and she is always there for us. Redwood Elementary is nice and everyone should go here.” Julian, a fourth-grader, has been going to the school since preschool and loves having recess. “I love playing games in the afterschool program. I love that the principal makes everyone laugh,” Julian said. “She is an amazing person,” said Sanchez. “And I’m just grateful that she is our principal because she is so good with our students, with our parents, with our community, in general she is just amazing.” If you would like to help sponsor a child/ family this holiday season, please contact the main office of Redwood Elementary at (385) 646-4986. l

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Tests? Fitting in? It’s more than that as student anxiety increases By Julie Slama | julie@mycityjournals.com It may be that an elementary student is fearful to come to school and once there, he is afraid to enter the school. If that student makes it to the classroom, often he is unable to cope or focus. In secondary schools, feelings can be internalized, leading to disengagement and depression. “There is likely an equal distribution of anxiety and stress K (kindergarten) through 12 (12th grade), however associated behaviors will manifest in different ways,” said Judy Petersen, Granite School District’s college and career readiness director. “Younger students are more likely to act out and struggle to regulate their behavior. Older students tend to internalize their struggles until they manifest as self-harm and/or suicide ideation.” Veteran teacher Karen Larson, who instructs English at Canyons District’s Brighton High, learned that firsthand. “The anxiety level is off the charts,” she said. “Students worry about paying for college, competing in the global marketplace for a job to support themselves, failing, being on their own and having that responsibility, what’s going on in the world.” Larson, who has students keep a journal that she tells them she reviews, has read those entries and more, including a student trying to harm himself. “I immediately let people know. By looking through his phone, they learned there were more pressures coming at him. What is happening in the world — shootings, climate change, cyberbullying — just adds to anxiety,” she said, adding that before reading the journal entry, she had no idea that the student attempted suicide. Sometimes, teachers and counselors recognize anxiety, such as being nervous before a test, but other times, it can be disguised as anger, illness, apathy or other behaviors that look entirely different, said Torilyn Gillett, Canyons School District school counseling program specialist. “Everyone will feel a level of stress in their lives,” she said. “Anxiety is when that stress becomes a point at which the person can no longer accomplish their everyday tasks. Therefore, it is often that a student may not be able to concentrate and participate in academic learning nor complete assignments.” Anxiety in the classroom isn’t just hitting students locally, said Jordan School District Health and Wellness Specialist McKinley Withers. “Nationwide, the suicide rates have increased,” he said. “Hopelessness, depression, anxiety all contribute. This is a generation needing different support than we’ve seen in the past. Much of their social world is fragile, contained to a device. There is a definite biological need to be face to face, to have that human interaction and touch, that is being reduced by technology. Now some peers are lacking self-confidence and anxiety grows as they text their peers next to them and sit isolated with their earbuds.” The Child Mind Institute reported in 2015 that more than 17 million U.S. children and ad-

Page 16 | December 2018

The Zitting family attends Park Lane Elementary’s STEM Night. Counselors recommend families spend time together to help build bonds to make students feel safe and valued. (Julie Slama/City Journals)

olescents have or have had a diagnosable mental illness — and 80 percent of the kids with anxiety don’t get treatment. According to the National Education Association, nearly two-thirds of college students reported in 2016 “overwhelming anxiety,” up from 50 percent just five years earlier. For seven straight years, anxiety has been the top complaint among college students seeking mental health services, with nearly one quarter saying it affects their academic performance. Petersen said that social workers report a higher number of students with behavior issues related to anxiety. “Students seem to be more anxious about safety at school, away from their parents, especially in K (kindergarten) through 6 (sixth grade), by negative influence of social media, and issues related to their status — and their family’s status — related to immigration,” she said. Gillett said that anxiety at a young age often centers around separation, being worried about their parents when they’re at school, or being anxious in school, speaking to teachers or in front of a classroom. Sometimes, children worry about a variety of everyday things and are filled with stressful thoughts, Gillett said. “Some worry is excessive and not normally warranted,” she said. Testing and academics also may play a factor, said Granite School District parent Robyn Ivins, who has taught in a classroom. “Teens today are really pressured from a young age to succeed so by the time they’re in high school, there’s real pressure to get a 36 on the ACT (college standardized test) and have a 4.0 (grade-point average),” she said. “It’s really taken a toll. Students are struggling to get the best classes, the best teachers, the best of everything. Sometimes they feel the pressure from parents or

their peers. Sometimes it’s pressure they put on themselves.” The National Education Association said that these teens grew up in classrooms governed by No Child Left Behind, the federal law that introduced high-stakes standardized testing to every public school in America. Starting in elementary school, instead of making art and new friends, the NEA said they learned to write fullon sentences in timed tests. These are the same students who instead of having hours of art and recess, attend pep rallies to pump them up for state testing. Even the stress of teachers needing to meet certain standards may be adding to the picture, wrote University of Michigan professor Daniel P. Keating in “Dealing with Stress at School in an Age of Anxiety.” Ivins said certain anxiety issues, such as families struggling, may impact a number of Cottonwood High students, with some of the 1,700 students coming from refuge families. She and others try to take away that anxiety by providing food and needed items through the school pantry, which is open to all students. “In high school, there are all sorts of pressures from sleeping with a boyfriend or getting asked to a dance and wearing the cutest clothes to where their next meal will come from and how their family will cope with pressures,” she said. Ivins, who said she’s not an expert, has seen the effects of social anxiety maximized through technology, such as social media. “There is a false look of the world when something is posted on Snapchat,” she said. “Whether it’s students posting or the parents, what’s there is not the whole story. They’re only posting the best. They see that their friends are succeeding, but what isn’t posted is a child having a tantrum or getting a C on a test. It becomes

West Valley City Journal

a struggle to lead the perfect life they see their peers have.” Gillett said sometimes, youth can’t fully understand messages and posts on social media. “A friend may say something, and your child takes it as a harsh rejection, when it’s not meant that way at all. Or they see all the great things that people do, but that’s only one percent of their life that is posted. We tend not to post our whole stories, just great accomplishments, not our normal days. Often that results in feelings of not measuring up when they compare themselves on what they see posted,” she said. Withers agrees. “Social media sucks kids in and creates anxiety in who sees what or how they measure up. Kids bullied at school feel less anxious nowadays than those who have been cyberbullied. Online, you don’t know who has seen what and you feel your whole life has been broadcast. You have no idea how far it went or who talked about it,” he said. The accessibility of having a smartphone also has led to more concerns beyond social media. “The increased screen time affects students,” Gillett said. “Constant access to the world can be a good thing, but it also means that the young are no longer sheltered from troubles, the next school shooting, bombing or even bullying, as we were when we young. Sometimes, they can’t process it at a young age. We need to build in escape time daily.” She said that even adding meditation, relaxation, deep breathing or taking a few minutes each day for a mindfulness app will help take away panic and anxiety feelings. “Even a walk without technology gives good exercise for both the body and the brain,” Gillett said. She also recommends that having family time as well as putting away devices at dinner will help build bonds to make students feel safe and valued. Sleep, about eight or nine hours nightly, is one the best things for students as well, Gillett said. “Just as your phone needs to be plugged in to recharge, your brain is the same way. It needs to recuperate,” she said. Gillett isn’t anti-technology. “It’s a factor of the world we live in and we need to find a healthy way to navigate through it. Technology developed super quickly and now we’re seeing the adverse effects and are understanding them. We need to help students make healthy choices that will support and protect them in the world they live in,” she said. Teachers are becoming more aware of how students cope with anxiety and how their relationships are critical, Gillett said. “Some anxiety, such as their ACT scores or fitting in the crowd, is normal, but it’s when there is hysterical crying or depression, those are warning signs and having a positive, strong relationship where a student can talk to and trust an adult is important,” she said, adding that secondary schools have become more pro-active in sharing the SafeUT app or suicide hotlines with students. “We’re taking away the barriers in

WestValleyJ ournal.com

talking about mental illness. Any mental illness is a risk factor for suicide.” Suicide prevention education begins in seventh and eighth grades in Canyons District from warning signs to recognizing where to get help to good coping skills. Hope squads, students who are “the eyes and ears” of secondary schools who help identify warning signs and seek help from adults, are in place in a number of secondary schools across the state. In September, Canyons showed, “Angst,” a movie about students dealing with anxiety and had a panel discussion afterward. More than 500 families attended, Gillett said. “Anxiety has become a hot topic for parents and we have seen an increase in discussion and in seeing students who previously didn’t know where to get help,” she said. Olympus High in Granite School District also showed the movie in October and Skyline High held a suicide night Oct. 16. Several parent outreach meetings on mental health and suicide prevention are held throughout Granite School District. In Jordan District, where Herriman High community experienced seven student suicide deaths last year, 36 psychologists were added this year so every elementary has a full-time health and mental professional to match those already in place at the secondary schools. Petersen said there also has been an increase in the number of students — and their parents — reporting that they feel anxious and stressed. “We do not track this specifically, but we have seen an increase in ‘anxiety and stress’ used as reasons for not attending school and an increase in the number of students — and their parents — requesting a home instruction placement for the same rather than a traditional school schedule,” she said, adding that all Granite District staff are trained on what to look for and how to talk with struggling students. Murray School District Director of Personnel and Student Services Darren Dean said school personnel do not diagnose anxiety, but help with resources. “We train administrators and teachers to work with the parent on accommodations in the school setting that will help the student to be successful,” he said, adding that services include meeting with school counselors or extending referrals to an outside agency for counseling services. Withers said while school districts aren’t designed to treat mental health, Jordan District supports students and provides families with resources, including Jordan’s Family Education Center where students can receive eight weeks of free counseling services. Withers said there is even an anxiety group that meets regularly. Gillett said that some immediate changes such as healthy eating and sleeping can help. “By setting goals and exercising daily habits of living a healthy life, students are building protective factors against anxiety,” she said. “If those are already in place, then that routine will help when anxiety or depression comes. Balance is something we need to learn for ourselves and for our children.” l

December 2018 | Page 17

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esert Star’s latest parody takes on the Christmas villain that everybody loves to hate! No, not the Grinch... The Grouch! This zany parody opens November 8th and it’s a hilarious musical melodrama for the whole family you don’t want to miss! This show, written by Ben Millet, with an update for 2018 and directed by Scott Holman, follows the story of the Whoville Orphan Sisters as they attempt to save their Christmas future, and presents, from the notorious Grouch. Also hot on the Grouch’s trail is the handsome huntsman, Hunter Hyrum Y, who blames the green goon for the loss of his arm. The team pursues the Grouch into the snowy mountains surrounding their town, only to encounter an even greater threat... one so dangerous, they just might need to join forces with the Grouch himself in order survive! Comedy, romance, and adventure are all on the docket for this delightful send up of the classic children’s story, as well as topical humor torn from today’s headlines. “How The Grouch Stole Christmas” runs November 8th through January 5th, 2019. The evening also includes one of Desert Star’s

side-splitting musical olios, following the show. The “Swingin’ Christmas Olio” features hit holiday themed songs and merry, musical steps mixed with more of Desert Star’s signature comedy. Food is available from an á la carte menu and is served right at your table. The menu includes gourmet pizza, fresh wraps, appetizers, and scrumptious desserts. “How the Grouch Stole Christmas” Plays November 8th - January 5th, 2019 Check website for show times: www.DesertStarPlayhouse.com Tickets: Adults: $24.95-$28.95, Children: $14.95 (Children 11 and under) 4861 S. State Street, Murray, UT 84107 Call 801.266.2600 for reservations For additional information, visit our website at www.DesertStarPlayhouse.com l

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December 2018 | Page 19

“To Strengthen and Promote the Shared Interests of the Business Community”

Lancers volleyball team elevates program to second straight state tournament By Greg James | gregj@mycityjournals.com

Representing the Business Voice in West Valley City, Taylorsville & Kearns Areas Contact Information: Barbara S. Riddle, CMP

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Page 20 | December 2018

Granger High School’s volleyball team has increased their win total each of the last three years. (Lancer volleyball)

T

he Granger volleyball team was winless in its region just three years ago. Their head coach, Lorenzo Gasper, labeled them this season as an up-and-coming team. “I was very pleased with our season and the way we came out,” Gasper said. In his third year as head coach, Gasper has seen an increase in victories each season. This year they finished with an 18-11 overall record and were undefeated in Region 2. “We have really focused on the younger girls. Before they get to high school we find the girls that want to play. We have reached out to the community to let them know we have a volleyball program and it is available,” Gasper said. He has organized better summer workouts. His idea was to get the girls playing more often and year round. “We have the workouts starting the first day of summer and have them all the way to the last day. We encourage the new girls to try club volleyball if they are not playing another sport. It keeps their skills up,” Gasper said. The Lancers faced Weber in the first round of the state playoffs. The first set did not go their way losing 25-12, but they rebounded to take the second set 25-15. The Warriors took the third set and Granger the fourth. The fifth and tie-breaking set went to Weber, 16-14. “Congratulations to Weber, but there were opportunities there for us to win the match. Being a young team, we have underclassman and only two seniors, we didn’t have the experience. Our maturity will develop over the next couple of years to win these games,” Gasper said.

Tavivea Latu is one sophomore who had to rise to the occasion. She took the place of the team’s senior setter after an injury early in the season. She had 645 assists for the Lancers. The other, Priscilla Moleni, had 347 kills to lead the team. “Both of those girls will have chances to play Division I volleyball. Our sophomore class is a very talented class. I have high expectations for next year. We return everyone and there is a really good freshman class coming in. We are starting to see the younger sisters of our older players,” Gasper said. The middle blocker combination of Kalesita Tatafu and Ofa Moungaafi combined for 116 blocks. The juniors anchor the Lancer defense. “Those two have improved tremendously throughout the season. They are students of the craft. Always asking what they can do to get better,” he said. “The entire squad is working constantly to get better. We have maintained a 3.5 grade point average. That is higher than the UHSAA (Utah High School Activities Association) requires. That can help them enroll in college one day.” The Lancers eventually lost in the second round of the playoffs to Riverton 25-17, 20-25, 25-22, 25-15. “In three years this program is accelerating into a top-notch program. Not only on the court but off the court too. They are becoming role models for the student body and the younger kids. They are typical teenagers and love to support the other teams. They are really great,” Gasper said. l

West Valley City Journal

Outliers win important games in northern division race By Greg James | gregj@mycityjournals.com

Outliers goaltender Kenton Kim has saved 82 percent of all the shots against him this season. (Greg James/City Journals)

T

he Utah Outliers make their home in West Valley’s Accord Ice Center, but before many of the junior hockey league team members take the ice they have completed a regiment of rituals to get them ready for game day. “I chew gum on the way to the rink and listen to the same songs driving over,” Outlier defenseman Tristan Slot said. Slot is not the only player with a pregame routine. “It is my first time to live in the United States,” goaltender and Swedish citizen Oscar Wahlgren said. “I am here because I want to try something new and I felt like this is a good opportunity. I am 19 and I like it here. The hockey here is a little different. I take on the left skate first then I take on the right skate and then tie the left skate, then the right. It is what I do.” Perhaps these routines have helped them, in some way, achieve success on and off the ice. The Junior hockey team plays in the Western States Hockey League, a tier-two league for players ages 18-22. Their players are grooming themselves to achieve goals that many have had since they were youngsters. “I started playing hockey when I was four years old. I grew up in Houston until I was about eight years old and then I moved here (Salt Lake City) and continued,” Slot said. “It is nice to play here and have my family and girlfriend come and watch any time they can. For the last three years I have not been here and it is nice to see my friends and play hockey at this

WestValleyJ ournal.com

level.” Slot is the only player on the team from this area. He played his high school hockey at Corner Canyon High School. After graduation he played junior hockey in Manitoba, Canada and Wisconsin before returning to West Valley as part of the Outliers. “It is good to play at this level,” Slot said. “I want to play college hockey and earn a scholarship. If I could go past that it would be super incredible, but if not, help for college and helping me get into sports medicine or psychology would be super cool.” The WSHL is a tier-two level junior hockey league. In the United States there are only two tier-two leagues and one top-level tier-one league available for players. The competition level for these players mirrors that found in Canadian leagues. Players in these leagues are constantly evaluated by colleges and professional organizations. Last season, defenseman Victor Burman became the fourth former Outlier to sign a professional contract in Sweden. The Outliers roster includes players from five countries—Sweden, Czech Republic, Canada, Russia and the United States. This is the third season the Outliers have competed in the WSHL. They won the league championship last year and represented the Mountain Division in the playoffs. The Outliers have played well this season. “We do a lot of good things to cre-

ate shots and we just need to get better at finishing,” Outlier head coach Paul Taylor said. “Our close games this season have been because of a lack of goal scoring. I think if we can solve that piece of the puzzle then I think we can be extremely competitive. It is just like any other sport if we can’t score then we are not going to be successful.” The Outliers started this season 10-5. They have lost to their rivals, the Ogden Mustangs, three times. They will begin a seven game home stand Friday, Dec. 7 with three games against the Northern Colorado Eagles and includes a game against Ogden and three games with the Casper Bobcats. The players from different countries learn more than just high level hockey. “I love sports and my teammates and my host family have showed me American sports like football. It has been fun,” Wahlgren said. The players work part-time jobs, live with host families and train nearly six hours a day. “Our process is to develop these guys and we can win a lot of games. We have staff that contacts colleges and pro teams. We do a lot of leg work to help these guys get noticed,” Taylor said. The team is currently in negotiations to move to Park City. This may be the last season in West Valley. “This is a great group. They have put a lot on the line to come here and chase their dream,” Taylor said. l

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Tempting The Grinch

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he animated film by Illumination “The Grinch” starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Cameron Seely recently premiered on Nov. 9. During opening weekend, it made $66 million dollars. The popularly known version of “How The Grinch Stole Christmas” by Dr. Seuss was published on Oct. 12, 1957. It began as a 32-line illustrated poem titled “The Hoobub and The Grinch” and was originally published in May of 1955 in Redbook magazine. The book version was released in December of 1957 by Random House. Since then, the book has held the attention of young readers for decades. If you’re unfamiliar with the story, here’s a quick rundown. In the little town of Who¬ville, all of the Whos who live there love Christmas. The Grinch lives north of Whoville and, not being a Who, hates Christmas. As the holiday approaches, the Whos get antsier, creating all sorts of smells and noises, including a song they all sing together on Christmas Eve. As The Grinch radiates of hatred on that night, he comes up with an idea. He will steal Christmas. He disguises himself as Santy Claus and sleds into Whoville where he steals all the Christmas things. As he is stealing Christmas in the middle of the night, a Who child, Little Cindy-Lou Who questions him about

by

CASSIE GOFF

stealing the family’s Christmas tree. He feeds her a lie and moves on with his night. On Christmas morning, well…I won’t spoil it for you. In the story, The Grinch steals everything relating to Christmas, even though Dr. Seuss mentions a few very specific things on The Grinch’s list: pop guns, bicycles, roller skates, drums, checkerboards, tricycles, popcorn, plums, pudding, roast beef, ribbons, packages, boxes, bags, and even the tree. If you don’t want to tempt The Grinch this holiday season, maybe it’s worth not having all of the above-mentioned items easily accessible. We’re in good shape with the first item on this list. Pop guns will probably be unavailable for purchase in many stores. Instead of buying an entirely new bicycle, tricycle, or roller skates, maybe it would be worthwhile to provide a gift card for the app related to the dockless electric rental scooters littering the streets of downtown Salt Lake. I haven’t used one myself, but from what I understand, you pay through an app on your phone and the scooter will run for as long as you pay for. Instead of buying a drum kit, which can run anywhere from $200 to upwards of $600 or more, maybe gift some drumsticks and lessons; or the Rock Band video game provided a gaming console has

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bags, I’ll buy a wholesale pack, because spending $2 to $10 per bag is madness. For ribbons and packages, I recommend buying wholesale as well. Hit up your local craft or party store and buy a few spools of ribbon which you can use multiple times. Balloon ribbon makes for surprisingly fancy present wrapping ribbon. Finally, the tree. I’m exceptionally biased. There’s nothing better than the smell of fresh pine from a live tree throughout the season. I would have saved a few hundred dollars by now if I had invested in a fake tree, but some things are just worth it. l

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been previously purchased. Checkers isn’t the popular game it used to be. Instead of spending $15 to $300 (I’m surprised too) on checkerboards, pick up a few packs of cards for less than $10. Not only are cards less expensive, there are unlimited variations of games that can be played. I’m not so sure checkers can say the same. For popcorn, just don’t. Who wants kernels in their teeth? Or to string popped popcorn? Unless that’s crucial to family tradition, please don’t partake. Also, plums and pudding. I’ve never incorporated those into festivities myself, so I don’t personally understand the appeal. However, I do know that my home is flooded with cookies and other homemade treats gifted from neighbors and family members. If you’re like me and have a swarm of goodies anyway, don’t buy plums and puddings either. Along the same thread (no, not the popcorn one), is roast beef. Does anyone still do roast beef for Christmas? It must be a Who thing. For ribbons, packages, boxes, and bags: keep it simple. Let’s start with boxes and bags. I’m sure a good portion of us will be doing online shopping this year. Keep the boxes from those orders. Personally, I keep boxes from online orders all year long so I can re-purpose them for gift giving. If I need to use

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West Valley City Journal

Life and Laughter—Dance of the Sugar Plum Peri

Life

I

Laughter AND

by

PERI KINDER

West Valley

never remember having visions of sugarplums dancing in my head, mostly because I didn’t know what a sugarplum was (but it sounds like something I’d eat). What I do remember is having visions of Christmas cookies piled on every possible surface in our kitchen as mom baked herself into a holiday frenzy. Around the middle of December, mom would cart home bags and bags of ingredients for her annual Christmas cookie bake-a-rama, preparing to make the treats she only made once a year. My siblings and I would “help” her unload bags of chocolate, sugar, cream and spices until she yelled at us to go watch TV. When mom donned her apron, adopted a determined expression and started grabbing bowls, that’s when I knew Christmas was really coming. We also knew to stay out of her way, which meant we had to be creative when it came to sneaking bits of cookie dough, scoops of frosting and pieces of pecans. During the ‘70s, sugar consumption wasn’t regulated, it was even encouraged! We ate so much sugar on a daily basis, our teeth were in a constant state of vibration. But at Christmas?! Our sugar levels reached critical mass to the point we peed sugar cubes. I’d eat cookies for

dinner, have a stomachache all night, and only be able to eat four bowls of Cap’n Crunch for breakfast. Each of us had our sugary Christmas cookie favorites, and mom made every single one. Mine were the cherry cookies; buttery sugar cookie dough baked around a maraschino cherry. My sisters loved the pineapple tarts cooked to a golden brown, and gingerbread men, decorated with frosting and Red Hot candies. We all loved the delicate spritz cookies, made with mom’s electric press, and the chocolate mousse balls (which we never got tired of saying). Once the baking was done, and the powdered sugar settled underfoot, mom would pile the cookies on sturdy paper plates and send us out in the snow to deliver the goodies to our neighbors. We roamed the neighborhood, passing other children delivering treats to nearby homes, and wave to each other because this was one chore we didn’t mind. More holiday treats came in the form of grandma’s raisin pudding with rum sauce that she’d warm up in an aluminum can on the stove, and pies she kept hidden in the back bedroom under dishtowels because she couldn’t trust us not to stick our finger in them. We’d decorate sugar cookies at

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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 W. 4700 So., Space 1 Bldg. A Taylorsville, UT 84129 (801) 965-9160

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

SUNDAY 8:00AM - NOON

www.grifolsplasma.com