West Jordan Journal - May 2015 - Vol. 15 Iss. 5

May 2015 | Vol. 15 Iss. 5

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The West Jordan Divide: Jeff Robinson treasure hunt

5

french culture

14

success in region 3

15

top finishes

16

O n Apri l 20 former Ci t y Attorney J e f f R obi nson was escor ted f rom Cit y H all and hi s of f i ce was sealed.

By Lewi Lewis

T

he noxious disorder that has created an emotional division between members of the West Jordan City Council continues to flourish; its principle element: a bloom of axiomatic suppositions.

But what will you find when trying to understand the elements of a twisted web that has ensnared the reputations of all involved? Whether you take all the names, Rick Davis, Jeff Robinson, Justin Stoker, and according to some of the councilmembers, acting city manager Bryce Haderlie, as individual roads or as a single problem-entity, the elements are the same: conflicting memories, clashing personalities, confusion and unknown agendas.

Jeff Robinson and the brass tacks: Fact: On April 20 former City Attorney Jeff Robinson was escorted from City Hall and his office was sealed.

Question: who gave the directive to have Jeff Robinson escorted out of the building and was he placed on paid administrative leave and who had the authority to do so? “ … [I] have no authority to let him go or even put him on administrative leave. OK? I put him, I asked him to be escorted out of his office by the chief of police

West Jordan Divide continued on page 4

quotable community:

“The technology that’s coming along is a little bit slow, but we are really, really hopeful that someday they will find a cure for it.”

page 6

Local Postal Customer ECRWSS

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

Page 2 | May 2015

Bangerter Tribute

T

uesday morning, I received the shocking news that my dear friend Norm Bangerter had suffered a severe stroke. My thoughts and prayers were with him and I was saddened but relieved when I heard that he had passed away Tuesday afternoon. Norm had many great qualities, but he was not a patient man and frankly he would have made an awful invalid.

There is much that has been written and said about the former governor this week, but I had a unique attachment and relationship with the guy. I remember when I was deputy lt. governor and met with him for the first time.

Here was a guy from the west side who beat an entrenched Democrat in the Watergate year.

Upon meeting him, I understood why. He was smart, bright, commonsensical. He knew how to get things done and how to bring people along with him. He and Jim Hansen, who later became the longest serving congressmen in the history of our state, made a phenomenal duo with Hansen as speaker and Norm as majority leader. What I respected about these two is that they worked closely with Scott Matheson, the Democratic governor, and did what was right for the state. It was a golden era.

After Jim Hansen’s election to Congress, the Republicans made Norm speaker. I dealt with many great speakers, a couple not so great, but without question, Norm was the best I personally ever dealt with. During this time, it was the tradition of the House that a speaker serve only one term and leave the body, but future speakers Garff, Karas, Brown, Bishop and others wanted Norm to be governor and elected him to an unprecedented second term.

Up until this time, this had only happened one other time in the history of the state.

I became close to Norm and he asked me to run his campaign for governor in 1984. At the time, it was not certain whether popular Governor Scott Matheson would run again or not. Norm announced and Scott announced a week later that he was not running. Norm used to tease that once Matheson heard that he was running he got out of the race. This was not the case, but it was a fun jest.

THE WEST JORDAN TEAM

West Jordan City Journal

NEWS

The race for the Republican nomination was tough. Bob Wright, who came close to beating Matheson in 1980 was running, Dan Marriott, a popular Republican Congressman from Utah decided to run as well as respected Utah State Senator Karl Snow. And yes, there was a gadfly in the race, former Salt Lake County Republican Chair Laura Ferguson.

Norm and Colleen worked hard.

They spent an entire year on the road.

We arranged for Republican House members, who all but a couple of RINOs, were not only

By Doug Foxley death. There was then State Senator Paul Rogers who was a fundraising whiz, Dave Buhler, who took a leave from Senator Hatch’s Office, L.J. Godfrey, Rick Evans, Taz Biesinger and so many others.

After coming in first in the State Republican Convention, we decided to do the unconventional and put what few resources we had into media hoping that when the first Dan Jones Poll came out that we would be within striking distance of Dan Marriott if not ahead. Dan was a good man, but we felt

Left to right: Governor Bangerter, Steve Foxley and Doug Foxley.

supporting Norm but they agreed to hold meetings in their homes for all of the friends and former delegates. What was amazing, is that even though Karl Snow was a most effective state senator, the majority of Utah state senators endorsed Norm and worked hard holding events for him in their homes.

It was a real grassroots effort aided by the late great Julie Orchard and Judy Schiffman, Norm and Colleen’s neighbor who later served as Colleen’s assistant and took care of Colleen when she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and subsequently married Norm after Colleen’s

that there was not strong support for him. Our assumption was correct, and when Dan’s first KSL-Deseret News Poll came out we were ahead. The money was tight, but after that poll it started coming in and we went on to beat Dan Marriott and Karl Snow in the Republican primary and handily defeated former Congressman Wayne Owens in November to make Norm the first Republican governor in Utah in 20 years.

1984 was a unique time, for it was the first time that a governor and lt. governor ran in tandem. Prior to that time, there was

m i ss i o n s tate m e n t

Creative Director: Bryan Scott: bryanscott@myutahjournals.com Assistant Editor: Lewi Lewis: lewis@mycityjournals.com Staff Writers: Greg James, Taylor Stevens and Lindsay Wolsey Ad Sales: 801-264-6649 Sales Associates: Ryan Casper: 801-671-2034 Melissa Worthen: 801-897-5231 Circulation Coordinator: Vitaly Kouten: Circulation@valleyjournals.com Editorial & Ad Design: Ty Gorton

initially just a secretary of state who later became lt. governor secretary of state. It was an amazing process for finding a candidate.

In the end, it came down to two great guys, former Senator Doug Bischof who led the Reagan efforts in Utah, and an talented young state auditor from Orem named Val Oveson.

In the end, Val was chosen, and he was an awesome lt. governor.

There are many stories I could tell, but I will spare you. You all know about Kennecott shutting down along with Geneva Steel just weeks before Norm was inaugurated. You know about the floods, the pumps, and his leadership to save education. The repudiation by the U.E.A., the race with Ted Wilson and Merrill Cook. In the end, after being 30 points behind, we won 41, 38 for Wilson, and 22 for Cook. But what you don’t know is that Norm was a good, decent human being who never did anything wrong. There is not an off color joke, story, or any inappropriate behavior with respect to anyone. He was a problem solver who never started life out thinking he would be governor. His natural talents and abilities continued to open doors and opportunities for him.

One cannot talk about Norm and his legacy without thinking about all of the people that he brought into state government: Dave Adams, Dave Grant, Kirk Green, Dave Johnson, Julie Orchard, Judy Schiffman, Steve Mecham, Francine Giani, Dave Buhler, John T. Nielsen, Bud Scruggs, Carol Nixon, Bonnie Stevens, Ed Leary, Alice Shearer, Leigh Vonderesch and oh so many more. Their legacy, like his, is one of true public service and behaving in a manner that public servants should.

Norm, I will miss you, but you taught me many things. You were a true friend and mentor and may your reunion with Colleen be a sweet one. Thanks for being who you were, a humble carpenter from Granger, Utah, who served this state well.

Sincerely, Doug Foxley

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May 2015 | Page 3

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Page 4 | May 2015

West Jordan City Journal

ON THE COVER

West Jordan Divide continued from page 1 and we sealed his office, and I did so what I [thought] was based on what I was instructed by the council,” Mayor Kim Rolfe said during an interview on Friday.

But Chief of Police Doug Diamond remembers it differently.

“We went into Robinson’s office. The Mayor started talking to Robinson and told him that he was going to be escorted from the building. The Mayor further explained that the council had decided to accept his resignation and that he was putting Robinson on paid administrative leave,” he said.

Find: other than opinion and speculation, what Rolfe was “instructed” to do by the council cannot be clarified; it was reportedly given during a closed door session in which the city manager was not present; councilmembers are not allowed to disclose what is discussed in a closed door meeting.

Fact: according to city and state code under the managercouncil form of government, any directive given by the majority council can only be carried out by the city manager.

Question: why was acting city manager Bryce Haderlie not present in the closed door meeting on Friday, April 17 where it was “decided” that Robinson would be placed on paid administrative leave?

“There was a meeting on Friday before Jeff was escorted out of the building,” Haderlie said in a phone interview on Sunday. “I was told [by Rolfe] I wasn’t needed at that meeting.”

Rolfe agreed when asked if it was true that Haderlie was not invited to the meeting. “Yes, that’s correct. He was not invited to the meeting.”

It is unclear as to why Haderlie was not invited.

“I was available but for some reason I wasn’t invit-

ed,” he said.

Councilmember Chad Nichols says the law is clear. “State law dictates the City Manager shall, "attend all meetings of the council and take part in its discussions and deliberations."”

“It’s kind of hard for me to do

something if I never had a conversation with the Mayor about it.”

When Rolfe was asked if this was indeed law, he said, “I don’t think so.”

Question: Haderlie wasn’t present on April 20 either, or was he?

“The city manager was not there. On Monday or Tuesday that week to do what the council directed,” Rolfe said, defending his decision to take initiative.

“I have four pages of notes just for that day,” Haderlie said when asked why he wasn’t in the building the day Robinson was escorted out.

Chief Diamond aligns with Haderlie. “While going to the [Robinson’s] office I asked if Haderlie was in the building,” he said. “The Mayor said that Haderlie was upstairs but he refused to do this (meaning escorting Robinson out of the building).”

Question: if the city manager, in fact, is not present or refuses to carry out a directive of the majority of council, is authority up for grabs?

“It’s kind of hard for me to do something if I never had a conversation with the Mayor about it,” Haderlie said.

Explaining his role, Haderlie says, “State law says that I’m the chief executive officer of the city and no member of

the council has legal authority to do anything with personnel.”

Councilman Southworth points out when given a hypothetical, “Even if a City Council inappropriately directs one of its members to take on an executive role … that individual is under zero obligation to comply and has every right to refuse.”

When Rolfe was asked if his actions on Monday, April 20 went against the grain of state and city code, he said, “I don’t know … all I know is that it was at the will of the majority of the council.”

Fact: The legislative body, of a manager-council form of government, appoints a city manager to oversee the administrative operations, implement its policies, and advise it. The position of “Mayor” present in this type of legislative body is a largely ceremonial title, and may be selected by the council from among its members or elected as an at-large council member with no executive functions.

T

o pull fact from opinion is iffy at best, prejudicial at worst. It is no secret that the fight unfolding between the seven councilmembers is emotional, animated and even personal (the audio of the April 29 council meeting alone is enough to prove this. You can listen to it on our website and hear for yourself: westjordanjournal.com).

So what then?

Jeff Robinson is just one of the effects of a much deeper, inherent cause that exists somewhere within City Hall.

Decide for yourself. Attend Council meetings; meet your representatives. Get involved.

Because when the waters begin to recede, what will be exposed: an empty basin of personal grudges and dramatization or a treasure trove of malicious intent at the feet of all who are involved? l

Murray

Arts In The Park 2015

EVENING SERIE S Season Tickets: $45 Adult, $40 Senior, $25 Child Murray Amphitheater Parking: 495 East 5300 South Ticket Information: 801-264-2614 or www.murray.utah.gov June 6

Cultural Showcase featuring Pacific Sound Productions and Quinn Reesor Drum Ensemble and Wofa Afrofusion Dancers June 17-20, 22-25 Peter Pan, Produced by Sandbox Theater with permission from MTI June 27 Murray Symphony Pops July 10-11 Ballet Under the Stars July 18 Murray Concert Band July 30-Aug 1, 3-5 Annie Get Your Gun, Produced by MAC with permission from Rodgers and Hammerstein Aug 8 Big Band Swing in the Park with guest artist, Bill Tole Aug 20-22, 24, 27-29 Camelot, Produced by Murray Cultural Arts with permission from Tams-Witmark Sept 7 Murray Acoustic Music Festival, Produced by IAMA Jim Fish (country blues), Ophir Creek (folk/bluegrass), Rusty Shovels (bluegrass).

FA MILY NIGHT S E R I E S Bring the Whole Family Young and Old! The 2nd Monday of every month at 7 pm, FREE Murray Heritage Senior Center (#10 East 6150 South – 1/2 block west of State) June 8 July 13

Fabulous Flynnstones, Jazz Salt City Saints, Dixieland

Aug 10 Sept 14

Ophir Creek, Bluegrass Wasatch Jazz Project Big Band

LUNCH CONCERT SERIES Every Tuesday at Noon in Murray Park Pavilion #5, FREE June 9 June 16 June 23 June 30

Sounding Brass Salzburger Echo Michael “Boots” Robinson, Cowboy Music and Poetry Red Desert Ramblers, Bluegrass

July 7 July 14 July 21 July 28 Aug 4

Prevailing Winds Ambassadors, Oldies Slickrock Gypsy, Jazz Salt Lake Goodtime Jazz Band, Dixieland Time Cruisers, Oldies

CHILDREN MATINEE SERIES Every Thursday at 2 PM in Murray Park Pavilion #5, FREE June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23 July 30 Aug 6

Salt Lake Capoeira, Afro-Brazilian Martial Arts Top Brass Quintet Elves and the Shoemaker, Interactive Theater The Great American Idea with Brian Jackson Fetzer, Stories & Music Once Upon an Adventure... Storytelling with Janine and Rachel Duna International Folk Dance Jonathan Swift, Magician Music and Motion with Marsha, Folk The Brave Princess, Puppet Players

This program has received funding support from residents of Salt Lake County, SL County Zoo, Arts and Parks (ZAP) and Utah Division of Arts and Museums and National Endowment for the Arts.

May 2015 | Page 5

WestJordanJournal .com

Deseret Industries Treasure Hunt

By Crystal Couch

A

known phrase, “Put it in the DI box,” refers to a mythical box known and rarely seen, yet existing in many Utah households.

“It was not until I married,” Christine Everill said, “that I found out ‘put it in the DI box’ was not a standard phrase in all families. My husband had no idea what a DI box was, or where I was keeping this box.” Everill is an occasional buyer from Deseret Industries, or the “DI”.

The DI is a staple for many households.

Residents visit it, purchase from it, donate their used items to it and some are employed by it.

The DI is a thrift store that survives off donations from the community, and their merchandise changes daily. It ranges from typical household finds (dishes, kitchen tables, couches) to clothes, toys and bikes.

One of Everill’s favorite finds was a gorgeous 1920’s buffet. “Our past is filled with histories and stories. Items from the past connect us to those stories, so all of my favorite finds usually come with a history lesson attached,” she said.

You do not need to be a pirate to find a treasure if you choose to take a trip to the local Deseret Industries. “I shop at DI because it is fun; it’s like treasure hunting for adults,” Everill said.

So, you have your once-a-month shoppers

This is a Deseret Industries find, a glass light cover the has been flipped over and used as a flow pot by Melanie Adamson. items first. She warned they are known for being pushy and a little feisty.

During a few of her hauls, she has brought home a number of items. “Every corner of my house is filled with awesomeness from DI. Some of my favorites include a 3D geometrical mirror, lamps, a mid-century butterfly painting, and a glass light cover that I flipped into a

A mid-century painting, another Deseret Industries find by Melanie Adamson. like Christine, and then your self-described regulars, like West Jordan resident Melanie Adamson. “I stop in between 2-3 times a week.

The best time to go is right when they open because they are bringing out the carts full of ‘new’ items. But beware of the ‘couch sitters’,” she warns. Adamson describes ‘couch sitters’ as people who sit and wait for the carts to come out so they can get to the newly-available

flower pot.”

Whether you are an occasional shopper to your local Deseret Industries or a religious buyer from their shelves, anyone who stops by and makes a purchase is in some form supporting their local community as a whole.

To learn more about the DI and how they serve others, visit their website at http:// deseretindustries.org/?lang=eng. l

WestJordanJournal.com

Page 6 | May 2015

West Jordan City Journal

Taking Steps To Help Fight Digestive Disease

Volunteers Beautify West Jordan On ‘Comcast Cares Day’

By Crystal Couch

E

leven-year-old Austin Ashby from West Jordan is one out of 700,000 estimated Americans living with Crohn’s disease; he was first diagnosed at the age of 9.

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract.

Austin and his family are speaking out about his disease to encourage local residents to attend the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation’s “Take Steps Walk” on Saturday, June 6, from 3 - 6 p.m. at Wheeler Historic Farm, where Austin is being celebrated as the honorary hero. “They are planning a one-mile walk,” said Shawn Ashby, Austin’s father.

“There will be a registration tent where people can come and register the day of or donate, if they would like to.

There will be a lot of kids’ activities, face painters, photo booth, live music and Austin will start the walk out since he is the honorary hero.”

This hero is only in the fifth grade, but his father describes him as very brave. “He gets a weekly infusion of Remicade at Primary Children’s Hospital. They insert an IV and he does not like needles,” he said. “We found this great numbing cream we put on him about a half hour before his infusion, and then we sit there for four hours, watch videos and eat food. He has been really courageous.” With the help of Remicade, Austin is back to doing some of his favorite things: playing on his Kindle, enjoying sports and reading

By Taylor Stevens

H Austin Ashby and his family want to get the word out about Crohn’s disease at the June 6 event “Take Steps Walk.” Photo courtesy of Shawn Ashby books like other children his age. One of the biggest changes since being diagnosed with this disease has been Austin’s diet.

“This has affected our family as a whole. The things he can’t eat the rest of us can, so we try not to eat those things around him,” said Austin’s father.

This is the Ashby’s second year doing the walk, but the first with Austin being the honorary hero. They really believe in the organization that puts this on yearly. “CCFA puts in a lot of money towards research,” said Shawn. “The technology that’s coming along is a little bit slow, but we are really, really hopeful that someday they will find a cure for it. They have made some great strides and narrowed down on some of the chromosomes and genes that cause Crohn’s and Colitis.” l

undreds of West Jordan volunteers participated in a national day of service as part of the 14th annual Comcast Cares Day on Saturday, April 25, according to a news release from the corporation.

The West Jordan volunteers participated in various projects, including cleaning, painting, planting trees, weed removal and general landscaping in the 7800 South 4000 West and 5445 West New Bingham Highway areas.

Together, the volunteers planted over 100 trees and helped spread soft fall on playgrounds and bark mulch around trees, said West Jordan mayor, Kim Rolfe.

“It’s always great to see the community come together to help beautify our city during Comcast Cares Day,” Rolfe said.

“I am very happy with all we accomplished and appreciate Comcast for taking the lead.”

Comcast Cares Day is one of the largest single-day, corporate-sponsored volunteer efforts in the country, said the press release.

Comcast said it expected more than 95,000 volunteers nationwide to participate in its day of service. Across the Wasatch Front, 8,000 volunteers participated in 11 projects.

Comcast Cares continued on page 7

T

he Utah Mathcounts State competition was held in Salt Lake Community College on March 7th where 150 top Mathletes ranging from 6th to 8th grade from all over the state participated. After the written round, top 10 participants are selected for the Countdown Round where tough math problems are projected on a screen and mathletes have 45 seconds to buzz in to reveal answers. Based on this, top four Mathletes are selected to represent Utah at the National Mathcounts Competition in Boston, Mass. ts in May. The top four individuals in ranking are Tarun Kumar Martheswaran (6th grade), Alex Cheng (8th grade), Alan Zhao (8th grade) and Nathan Fang (8th grade).

All these students are from Midvale Middle School.

Tarun Kumar (pictured at right) who is the youngest in the team took first place at the District level and then first place at the Regional level before winning the State championship. He mentioned that hard work and persistence are key in winning these competitions.

He also mentioned that, "Seeing my sister, Tanisha compete in Mathcounts and representing Utah two years in a row was a huge motivational factor in wanting to compete. I also owe my success to the Kumon Math program that has given me a very strong foundation and speed " Tarun Kumar says that he needs to keep working hard to keep up with his Math skills and prepare for the National competition which is just around the corner.

He added that, “Participating in these competitions

has given me a taste of success and a never ending love for Math. It's a great feeling to be able to excel at something you're passionate about. "

ABOUT MATHCOUNTS MATHCOUNTS® is a non-profit national math enrichment, coaching and competition program that promotes middle school mathematics achievement in every U.S. state and territory. MATHCOUNTS offers teachers, kids and parents free materials to encourage math enrichment and prepare students for a high-tech future that will require mathematics-related skills to achieve success. Materials and information are available at www.mathcounts.org.

May 2015 | Page 7

WestJordanJournal .com

4Truck Firehouse Food

By Crystal Couch

S

ince a young age, Scott Thorell of West Jordan has had the passion for cooking, music and arts. “I started working in restaurants at the age of 11,” he said. He has lived a very ambitious life since, as he stated, “I have been in fire service for 22 years now; I was also a flight medic for 15 years.” Thorell is currently the captain for Unified Fire Authority. “Last August I needed to do something different, and so I found a truck on eBay,” he said. He wanted to get back to his passion, so in 2015 he put this dream into action and introduced the city to 4Truck. He turned this 1963 eBaybought retro taco truck into a one-of-a-kind, firehouse-themed food truck.

The truck was named 4Truck in remembrance of the New York Fire Department rescue truck, Rescue 4. The truck responded to the Sept. 11, 2001 attack on New York. Eight men arrived on this truck, but all were killed

Captain Scott Thorell of Unified Fire Authority.

when the South Tower collapsed.

Captain Thorell has been cooking for the last 40 years, and the type of food he offers on his food truck is comfort firehouse foods. He now offers the city the same food he has been feeding his firefighters for years. His menu ranges from ribs and meatloaf to chili Colorado burritos with varying sides.

He is really hoping to leave his mark on West Jordan and gain a local following. Since he still serves his community as captain for Unified Fire Authority, his truck is currently only available for contract work. You can also follow 4Truck in social media for events and any local appearances at www.facebook.com/4Truck and twitter.com/4Truck1. l

The 4Truck firehouse food truck.

Comcast Cares continued from page 6 In addition to cleaning and landscaping, volunteers also assisted shelter animals and the homeless, and helped improve schools and senior and youth centers.

“We’re honored to partner with these

local schools, cities and organizations to work together to improve our community,” said Kyle McSlarrow, Comcast regional senior vice president. “I’m grateful to the thousands of volunteers who donate their time each year to help make such a big difference on Comcast Cares Day.”

Volunteers in West Jordan City spread mulch at Ron Wood Park on Comcast Cares Day. Photo courtesy of West Jordan City

Page 8 | May 2015

I

EDITORIAL

City Council: Bullies, Tattletales And Liars

am sure there are plenty of publishers and editors within the newspaper industry that love the opportunity to write an editorial. I am not one of those individuals. I like the facts, I like everything above board and in the open. So today I find myself having to write an editorial for the first time in my career. This frustrates me at best.

Recently it has become very clear that the West Jordan City Council has a damaging divide. I fully realize that these elected and appointed officials are in their respective positions to allow for effective government, and that as individuals they will have varying opinions and disagreements. In the United States we have accepted that this is politics, particularly on the federal level.

That said, what is currently going on inside City Hall is much less acceptable. 5 versus 2 or 2 versus 5. That is what we have within our city council as of today. It doesn’t take long for anyone attending a council meeting to quickly realize this.

I have had the opportunity over the last year and half to meet Mayor Rolfe and have built what I would call a professional friendship with him. I have felt that the Mayor has been honest and open with me. I have also gotten to know Councilman Haaga, whom I also feel has been honest and open with me.

So imagine my distaste when over the last week as I start to drill down into some of the topics plaguing the council and city, I find that much of what these two have stated is either half truth, a shadow of the truth, or an outright lie.

At this point the best way I can describe these two’s actions through their dealings with city business, is like two school kids with their finger pointing at the other kids, fully knowing they have four fingers pointing back at themselves.

It seems that they are quick, if not eager, to blame others of wrong doings when they have clearly committed plenty of their own.

But it is hard to blame these two completely, when there is another side, right? Although maybe not said directly the other faction here believe that the Mayor (and Councilman Haaga) are over stepping their bounds, particularly the bounds and powers of the Mayor. Well, if this is true then why have the other five not taken action? What have they done to stop this abuse? From what I can see, very little.

Councilman Southworth, you took your office promising under oath that you would do what is best for the City of West Jordan. But you standby nearly idle when you believe your mayor runs rogue. You sat on the council and placed the position of the mayor as a full-time employee with a salary costing the city over $100,000 per year. Now it is time to reign in that position and you have openly stated you will not seek reelection. If you don’t clean this up, who will?

If what you say about the Mayor is correct, why would you idly standby and not fix the issue you helped create. Why would you leave your position now, knowing that the very person you think is trying to bully power from the council may gain power through your departure.

So just to be clear.

Mayor Rolfe: Shame on you if you are operating within your position with little regard to the city code that addresses such. Shame on you for hiding behind half-truths and closeddoor sessions and active investigations. Shame on you if you took a position as Mayor if you didn’t plan on operating within the powers of the office.

West Jordan City Journal Editorial By Bryan Scott Councilman Haaga: Shame on you if you are encouraging and/or acting less than professional. Shame on you if you are pushing for an investigation on a former council-member for taking a job or personally benefiting from his position, if you yourself know that you have personally benefited from your identical position.

Councilmen Southworth and Nichols: Shame on you if you are going around and telling media and individuals that the Mayor (and Councilman Hagga) are operating outside their powers, if you are not actively trying to stop it. Shame on the both of you if you are leaving your office, knowing that by leaving you may be doing what is worse for the city.

Shame on you if don’t take action against someone you describe as a bully.

Without a doubt I am sure that each of these individuals will say that I am wrong. They will show evidence that make it appear that I am wrong. I implore each and every resident of West Jordan to look at these pieces of evidence and ask yourself if it is the complete truth, or is it another shadow game or half truth? I write this to help inform the public, encourage them to research and get involved. Because the next time I write on this matter, I don’t want to have to say Shame on the Residents. All these individuals that lie to you once, shame on them. Allow it again , shame on you.

Here is an idea. Let’s get past this. Let’s clear up the definition of the responsibilities, duties, and powers of the Mayor. Let’s make sure that each and every one of our city officials, elected or appointed are operating in such a manner, which is consistent with what is best for the City.

Let’s remember why you are there. l

G O OD NEIG HBOR

NEWS Thanks to our awesome Comcast Cares Day volunteers!

City officials and staff would like to extend a big thank you to the many volunteers who participated in this year’s Comcast Cares Day event on April 25! About 1,100 volunteers came together and spent the morning helping with a community-wide cleanup. We appreciate the opportunity to partner with Comcast, who will in turn make a cash donation to nonprofits based on the number of volunteers who took part in this annual day of service.

Thanks to many helping hands, the following projects are now complete: • 105 trees planted in six different parks • 310 yards of mulch spread • 14 tons of playground sand spread • 70 yards of playground soft fall chips spread • graffiti removed • several dumpsters filled with trash hauled away • Fence slats installed, windows cleaned, weeds pulled and flowers planted at Copper Hills High

M AY 2 0 1 5

M AY O R ’ S M E S S A G E

Overcoming Adversity to Reach Our Full Potential I realize there has been a lot of media coverage about our City as of recent. There are a lot of things happening right now and a lot of questions being raised.

In the midst of all of this, I want to make one thing perfectly clear: I take my responsibility as your Mayor very seriously.

Whenever I make a decision or take action of any kind, it is always based on my consideration for the City and its residents, not upon my own interests.

It is difficult to have your actions questioned in the media and be unable to address those questions head on. Because of the legal issues involved, that is my current predicament. Rest assured that the facts will come out eventually and the truth will prevail.

In the meantime, I will continue to work toward the best interests of West Jordan and its residents. Since being given the privilege of becoming your Mayor, I have seen some amazing things happen in our city. Here is a recap of some of the highlights: • We established a six-month moratorium on multi-family housing while we work on a cap and grade system. This will allow us to control the ratio and quality of multi-family high-density housing that is built in our city.

• We appropriated surplus funds for the Calsense central irrigation system. This automated parks watering system will reduce water usage and labor costs.

• We approved bonds for $6 million to upgrade our existing parks and change our streetlights to LED. This was done with no tax increase. The new streetlights will save the city thousands of dollars every year.

• We negotiated the acquisition of the old library. This building is currently being used by the Arts Council until a new facility can be built. This was all done without cost to West Jordan taxpayers.

• We brought greatly needed funds to our Fleet Department to upgrade the antiquated Fleet, Police, Fire and Public Works vehicles. Again, this was done without raising taxes.

• We made a jurisdictional transfer of 9000 South and 7800 South to UDOT. This relieves West Jordan taxpayers of the high maintenance costs for these major thoroughfares.

• We stopped the prison from coming to West Jordan. It was an amazing thing to watch our entire community come together to protect the future of our city!

This is only a fraction of the great things we have accomplished. There is so much more that is possible. You have my word: I will not rest until I see our city reach its full potential.

GOOD NEIGHBOR NEWS: WEST JORDAN NEWSLETTER New Fire Station 54/Bagley Park Police Substation Open West Jordan Mayor Kim V. Rolfe cut the “hose” at the April 30 Ribbon Cutting ceremony for Fire Station 54/Bagley Park Police Substation. The mayor used the Jaws of Life to cut through handcuffs and fire hose to celebrate the opening of this new facility, which was built on the site of an old fire station that was demolished last spring.

“The new station is a great addition to the community and replaces one we had outgrown and worn out,” said Fire Chief Marc McElreath. “It is designed to serve the needs of this fast-growing area for many years to come. It’s seismically safe and large enough to house our firefighters and equipment so that we’re prepared to respond to the community.”

The Police Department’s motor squad will also be based out of the combined fire station/ police substation.

The original facility was built in 1980 when West Jordan had only about 27,000 residents.

Today, West Jordan has about 110,000 people and more than 3,000 businesses, including many large industrial businesses in the area that the new station will serve.

The station includes a 50-foot tower for rope rescue training as well as tunnels to practice confined space rescue. It has the ability to house seven firefighters and includes a 50-seat community/training room that is available for public use.

The station is located at 9351 S. Hawley Park Road (5595 West) and cost about $3.5 million.

Kids’ “Mayor’s Mile” May 30 Hey kids! Can you outrun the mayor? Kids 14 and under are invited to race Mayor Kim V. Rolfe in the “Mayor’s Mile” event on May 30 as part of the “Get Into the River Festival.” Sign up for this free race from 9-10 a.m. at the Gardner Village trailhead, 1100 W. 7800 South. The run starts at 10 a.m. (Adults can race too but are ineligible for prize ribbons.) This second annual “Get Into the River Festival” includes many different events and activities that take place along the Jordan River Trail from 10 a.m-2 p.m. Details at GetIntoTheRiver.org.

Wild West Jordan Playground Celebrates 10 Years Ten years ago a dedicated group of volunteers had the vision to build a one-of-a-kind playground. Playground co-chairs Jennifer Scott and Cynthia Bee and their team of 13 committee chairs spent a year raising over $400,000, soliciting tools and supplies, recruiting volunteers and preparing for this massive undertaking. School children designed the structure and even raised nearly $4,000 in pennies to fund the project.

Over the course of 10 very wet, muddy days, 6,000 volunteers built the Mountain America Wild West Jordan Playground in Veterans Memorial Park. With a unique two-story superstructure, it was the largest playground in the state. (You can see many news clips and pictures on the West Jordan City Hall Facebook page in celebration of the 10-year anniversary.)

At 10 years old, this much loved and well used structure needs a mini facelift. The City Council has allocated funding to make some needed repairs to the playground to make sure the Wild West Jordan Playground continues to delight children for years to come.

GOOD NEIGHBOR NEWS: WEST JORDAN NEWSLETTER

West Jordan Receives Tree City USA Award for 19th Year

Ever thought about running for City Council?

2015 MUNICIPAL ELECTION CANDIDACY DECLARATION The City of West Jordan will be electing DISTRICTS 1, 2, 3, AND 4 Council Seats during this year’s municipal election. To declare candidacy to run for a Council District position, the filing period this year is as follows: Monday, June 1 through Monday, June 8 at 5 p.m., in the City Clerk/Recorder’s Office, City Hall, 8000 South Redwood Road, 3rd floor. For more information regarding the upcoming Municipal Election, please contact Melanie Briggs, City Clerk, 801-569-5117. All positions have four-year terms. If you are interested in running, listed below are the requirements: (1) Be a United States citizen.

(2) Be at least 18 years old.

(3) Be a resident of the municipality or a resident of the recent annexed area for at least 12 consecutive months immediately preceding the date of the election.

(4) Be a registered voter of the municipality.

[Utah Code 10-3-301; 20A-9-203]

From left to right: Brian Cottam, State Forester/Director; Dave Naylor, West Jordan Urban Forester; Brian Clegg, West Jordan Parks Director; and Scott Zeidler, Community Forester for the Wasatch Front Area.

The City of West Jordan was honored as a Tree City USA community for 2014 for the 19th consecutive year. In order to be eligible for the award, the city is required to have a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, a community forestry program with an annual budget of at least $2 per capita, and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

In 2014, 203 trees were planted in city parks and streetscapes. And an additional 593 trees were added to city properties. About 500 volunteers put in over 1,900 hours of service working on tree-related projects. 2015 is off to a strong start with 105 trees planted on Arbor Day and 54 more trees scheduled as part of an upcoming project.

Construction Update If it seems like there are more construction projects happening around the city this year than ever before, you’re right. The City Council allocated additional funding this year in an effort to improve the city’s transportation network and other infrastructure. Construction projects are never convenient, and we ask for patience as we work to rebuild failing roads, improve the city’s storm drain system, upgrade water pumps and reservoirs, and make other much needed repairs. You can find up-to-date information on the city website WJordan.com or follow us on Facebook at West Jordan City Hall.

Here’s a quick overview of some of the projects under way: 5600 West Project – 6200 South to 7000 South

Veterans Memorial Park

This section of road is being rebuilt and widened, with new curb, gutter and sidewalk being installed. Storm drain work is also nearing completion. When complete, the road will include two travel lanes in each direction, a median/left turn lane, and bike lane within the shoulder. The project is ahead of schedule and should be complete before the contractual deadline of July 2.

9000 South Project – 4800 West to 5500 West 9000 South from 4800 West to 5300 West closed on April 29 so that crews could remove the existing road surface. Fencing was installed to protect pedestrians and school children. The

contractor is currently removing almost 3’ of supporting roadway soil materials to prepare for placement of the roadway fabric and new structural fill material. The project is expected to take 90 days, with plans to reopen by the end of July.

Grizzly and Bingham Junction Reservoirs Two new water reservoirs have been constructed: Bingham Junction Reservoir is complete and operational, and the final work on the Grizzly Reservoir will be complete in the next two months, with the reservoir operational for the July summer peak.

Well #3 – 5700 West and 9000 South.

A new pump station is almost complete, with the well already tested and approved for operations.

1300 West – Bingham Creek Box Culvert Project Final cleanup and paving work along 1300 West is almost complete. All new curb and sidewalk has been placed.

4000 West – Bingham Creek Box Culvert Project The road is closed for the next 30 days along 4000 West as crews remove the old culvert. This closure is necessary to complete the removal and replacement of the storm drain culvert.

2015 Surface Sealing Project This year city crews will seal approximately 835,000 square feet of roads, which represents about 1.5 percent of the city’s 53,856,000 square feet of road surface. Surface sealing takes place in June and July.

Storm Water Open House May 21 Come learn about the City’s storm drain infrastructure and the efforts being taken to stay compliant with the EPA and manage flood run off. Staff will be on hand Thursday, May 21 from 6-8 p.m. at Constitution Park, 3200 West 7000 South, to explain the system, answer questions and share future planned improvements.

Email info@wjordan.com for more information.

GOOD NEIGHBOR NEWS: WEST JORDAN NEWSLETTER CALENDAR OF EVENTS

M AY

M AY

M AY

21

23

25

STORM DRAIN OPEN HOUSE

“SPRING INTO BOOKS” AUTHOR SIGNING EVENT

MEMORIAL DAY CITY OFFICES CLOSED

Constitution Park 3200 West 7000 South 6-8 p.m.

Viridian Event Center 8030 S. 1825 West 3-7 p.m.

MEMORIAL DAY TRIBUTE 6-7 P.M.

M AY

M AY

M AY

27 CITY COUNCIL MEETING City Hall 8000 S. Redwood Rd. 6 p.m.

M AY

30

30

30

GET INTO THE RIVER FESTIVAL

WESTERN STAMPEDE ROYALTY CONTEST

NATIONAL ANTHEM SINGING CONTEST

Events and activities along the Jordan River.

10 a.m - 2 p.m.

Viridian Event Center 8030 S. 1825 West 8 a.m.

West Jordan Arena 8035 S. 2200 West 10 a.m.

JUNE

JUNE

JUNE

PLANNING COMMISSION

HEALTHY WEST JORDAN’S LINDA BUTTARS MEMORIAL FUN RUN

SUMMER READING KICK OFF

6

2

City Hall 8000 S. Redwood Rd. 6 p.m.

Veterans Memorial Park

The City of West Jordan 8000 S. Redwood Rd., West Jordan, UT 84088 (801) 569-5100 www.wjordan.com

6

Veterans Memorial Park 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Join the conversation! Follow West Jordan – City Hall.

West Jordan Police Dept.

8040 S. Redwood Rd. West Jordan, Utah 84088 801-256-2000 801-840-4000 Dispatch

May 2015 | Page 13

WestJordanJournal .com

Healthy West Jordan

By Crystal Couch

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he Healthy West Jordan Committee works to promote a healthy lifestyle within the City of West Jordan. They recently wrapped up a contest that promoted just that. It was a weight-loss program designed around a balanced, nutritional diet and exercise. They

divided the contestants up into two groups: male and female. The contest was not based on pounds lost, but on total weight loss percentage Retired 68-year-old John Trump was

Healthy West Jordan continued on page 14

VISIT US ONLINE AT:

WestJordanJournal.com WE’RE EXCITED TO BE PART OF YOUR

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West Jordan weight loss contest second place finisher, Brady Dransfield. Photo courtesy of Brady Dransfield

WEST JORDAN SENIOR CENTER NEWS West Jordan Senior Center 8025 South 2200 West West Jordan, Utah 84088

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unch is served Monday through Friday from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for a suggested donation of $3.00 for anyone 60 and over. Lunches for a guest of a senior are available for a suggested donation of $7.00.

Lunches are given out on a first come, first served basis. We also offer an alternative lunch daily available without a reservation.

Join us on Wednesday, May 20 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for our Health and Resource Fair. Participate in health screenings, including mood and memory screenings.

Vendors include: Salt Lake County Aging and Adult Services’ Medicare specialist, Sanderson Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Utah Division of Consumer Protection and more.

Our Keynote Speaker, Jane Ostler, is from the Huntsman Cancer Institute. Come in for a wealth of resources and information. Door prizes will be awarded at lunch.

Join us on Tuesday, June 9 at 11:00 a.m. for a new series entitled Around the World. Bruce Craft from Humana will present interesting facts and trivia about Australia.

Create Art Through Patience and Trust: Join us for a fun painting experience on Wednesday, June 17 at 9:30 a.m. We will pair painters up in groups of two with one person as the instructor and the other as the blindfolded painter. Learn to trust the instructions from others. Then the roles reverse. Please sign up in advance.

Our annual Father’s Day Buffet is coming up on Thursday, June 18 at 11:00 a.m. Bob Shorten will provide the entertainment. All fathers joining us for lunch will receive a special gift from the Advisory Committee.

Please let us know if you can join us.

Call for more information: 801-561-7320 or visit www.westjordanseniorcenter.com

Page 14 | May 2015 Healthy West Jordan continued from page 13 one of the many contestants. He is a local resident of West Jordan and decided to enter the contest after seeing a flyer. He was having difficulty with everyday things, and his clothes were not fitting the way they should, so, with the love of a good competition,

needed to reach his goal, and he lost an overall 18.55% body fat, taking second place in the competition. “I did a lot of walking, push-ups and sit-ups,” he said. “If I was sitting down watching TV, I would get up and walk on the treadmill. So every moment I was down I made sure I would get up and do something.”

Brady encourages others to not wait until your

Before and after of weight loss contestant John Trump.

Photo courtesy of John Trump

he entered. He encountered a few health concerns along the way that prevented him from working out every week during the 14-week competition, but he still prevailed.

He began his journey at 272 pounds, 49% body fat and ended at 240 pounds, 35% body fat. “The thing that was most helpful was actually doing the weigh-ins,” he said. “That was literally what kept me going, knowing every Tuesday I had to go in.”

Another contestant, 42-year-old Brady Dransfield, joined the contest after a recent visit to his doctor. Brady had a kidney transplant in 1994 and, after his doctor voiced his concern about the direction of his health, he came to the conclusion that it was time to make some changes to his lifestyle. Brady is the father of three children, ages 9-15, and a husband of a supporting wife for the last 20 years. He credits the program for giving him the motivation he

health is declining to become active and eat healthier. “Health is more important than junk food and letting your weight go.”

Individuals were not the only ones that benefited from this program. Josh and Sarah Holladay, also of West Jordan, said their whole family got involved. Josh spoke fondly of his wife, stating that she would get up every day and had a morning routine that involved their kids, including their 18-month-old. “The Biggest Loser program kind of brought us all together,” Josh said. “We got into a healthier diet, and from there it was a snowball effect.”

Healthy West Jordan still offers daily tips, words of encouragement, and meal plans on their blog. This contest is yearly, and, though the most recent run did come to a conclusion, there is no reason to delay starting up a journey of your own. To visit their blog, check out: http://weighbiggestloserswj.blogspot.com. l

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Fox Hollow Elementary Celebrates French Culture

By Bridget James

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n May 7, Fox Hollow Elementary celebrated French culture with their French Cultural Night. The theme was “Tour de France,” and throughout the night students read fun Tour de France facts and offered raffle drawings. “With the support of parent volunteers, Smith’s and the school council, who donated $500, [they] greatly aided in making the night a success,” Jessica Louk, third grade French immersion teacher at Fox Hollow Elementary, said.

Fox Hollow Elementary, in West Jordan, is a dual French immersion school. Across the Salt Lake Valley, there are a number of dual immersion schools, which are great opportunities for young students to learn a second language and embrace other cultures. (For more information on dual immersion schools in Utah, visit www.schools.utah.gov/curr/dualimmersion) “Any language immersion program is beneficial for students, since learning a language at a young age fosters proficiency, in comparison to learning a language at a later point in life,” Louk said. “Immersion aids students in realizing that English is not the only language

spoken in the world, and fosters appreciation of other cultures.”

During the evening, French students from each immersion class presented information on one aspect of French culture. The first and fourth-grade students focused on major French artists and re-created certain pieces to put on display. In addition, the first graders shared information on major French food, and Smith’s grocery store donated food at a discounted rate so the students could make a French food sampler plate for all participants. The second graders focused on a few traditional French songs that they sang to the audience, and performed several traditional dances to accompany their music.

The third graders focused on major French individuals and innovators. “They researched their background and created self-portraits, timelines on their iPad and a game-based quiz for their audience to play following their presentation,” Louk said. In addition, several groups of students researched the history of the French baguette, French cheese and French chocolate. l

WestJordanJournal .com

SPORTS

May 2015 | Page 15

Grizzly Baseball Team Finds Success In Region 3

By Greg James

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he Copper Hills Grizzlies boys baseball team has had a rocky start to the season, but since they began playing against the other Region 3 teams they have found some success.

The Grizzlies preseason was marred by nine straight losses. Six of those losses came by three runs or less.

“We started our season very slow. This

team is completely different from last year’s.

We have figured things out and started to play together and believe in each other. Since the beginning of the year we have changed every position player,” head coach John Morgan said.

They appeared determined to make an impression on the Brighton Bengals in their first region series. They scored six runs in

The 2015 Copper Hills boys baseball team. Photo courtesy of Copper Hills Baseball Boosters

PUBLIC NOTICE The annual report of the Foothold Foundation is available for inspection by written request by any citizen who so requests within 180 days after the publication of this notice, by writing to the principal adminstrator, Richard Beckstrand at: The Foothold Foundation P.O. Box 712320 Salt Lake City, Utah 84171-2320 Pub. West Jordan Journal — June 2015

PUBLIC NOTICE The annual report of the Odyssey Foundation is available for inspection by written request by any citizen who so requests within 180 days after the publication of this notice, by writing to the principal adminstrator, Eric O. Roberts at: The Odyssey Foundation P.O. Box 712320 Salt Lake City, Utah 84171-2320 Pub. West Jordan Journal June 2015

their first inning against Brighton and won 12-6, 4-1 and 17-7 in their three-game series.

The Grizzlies swept Alta 16-2, 14-4 and 8-3. They then lost two of three to West Jordan and two of three to Jordan. At press time they are tied with Jordan for second place with an 8-4 record.

“We have jumped on Cody’s [Barkdull] back. Our team has picked up enthusiasm from him. He has the tools to become a big time player. He is a leader on our team,” Morgan said.

Barkdull has committed to the College of Southern Idaho to play baseball after he graduates. He is hitting .371 this season and has three homeruns.

“Our preseason was terrible. I do whatever the coaches need me to do. I know my bat [hitting] is very important to our team.

Defensively, I can play anywhere they need me to,” Barkdull said.

Junior Trevor Hoffman and senior Jordan Johnson (JJ) are the leaders of a Grizzlies pitching staff that has struck out 121 hitters collectively. Hoffman has a 3.31 earned run average and Johnson 2.29.

“Trevor is a lefty that has had some interest from colleges. He is sneaky fast and

The Grizzlies Cody Barkdull leads the team with four doubles and one triple. Photo courtesy of Copper Hills Baseball Boosters always wants to pitch all the time. J.J. has done a great job. He has a changeup that goes with his fastball. He is able to get the ground balls from the other teams. Our defense needs to play well behind him,” Morgan said.

The Grizzlies close out the season against Bingham May 4, 5 and 6 (after press deadline).

The state baseball tournament is scheduled to begin May 12. l

Page 16 | May 2015

West Jordan City Journal

SPORTS

Grizzlies Play Hard, Humble And Hungry

By Greg James

T

he Copper Hills High School girls softball team needs to have an ambulance on standby at their games. The team has had its share of close competitions, and their fans may go into cardiac arrest.

“We have had some good wins and some tough losses. We are learning from each of our games. We keep working to find the best combinations (of players) on the field,” head coach Jentry Johnson said.

The Grizzlies have started their season by splitting their first 10 games, with five wins and five losses, including a 1-3 trip to Phoenix, Ariz.

The Grizzlies have had 11 games decided by three runs or less, including a come-from-behind 10-9 victory over Riverton March 10. In that game they had fallen behind 9-0. Ashley Anderson Copper Hills senior Sky Cook has reached base in every game this singled and Alyssa Garcia scored season. Photo courtesy of dbaphotography.com the winning run in the bottom of makes her a tough out. She is also very quick the seventh.

“We are relentless; we have had several on the bases,” Johnson said.

Paige Watts leads the team with five come-from-behind wins. When we get down we never give in. That is who our team is. We homeruns. Ashlee Anderson has four, Kylie do not give up before the last pitch or out,” Jones three and Maci Brogdon and Jaici Bishop both have two.

Johnson said.

“Maci had a spine fracture and could not Senior captain Sky Cook is hitting .443 as the team’s leadoff hitter. Johnson said she even play last season. This year she has come has become a big part of the team’s success. up in some clutch situations and been hot. As She has signed to continue playing softball a sophomore she has risen to the occasion,” after graduation at College of Southern Idaho. Johnson said.

“Sky is a quick learner and fierce he Grizzlies finished in second place in competitor. Last season she took the challenge Region 3 last season. Johnson said her to switch to be a left-handed hitter. She was good last year and this season she is even team could contend again this year. “Bingham better. She has a full complement of swings: is a powerhouse. Alta has great pitching and l bunt, slap and a full left-handed swing. That we are right there,” she said.

T

Track Athletes Post Top Finishes

T

By Greg James

rack athletes are always looking to break records: personal, school or state are usually the targets. West Jordan and Copper Hills track stars have accomplished a lot this season.

Grizzly junior Skyler Andam has the longest jump in the state in the boys long jump. April 25 at the Davis Invitational at Davis High School, he jumped 23 feet and ¼ inches, one foot and two inches longer than his nearest competitor. His jump is a school record.

He also took first at the Grizzly Invitational March 28.

The Copper Hills team placed first overall at its Grizzly Invitational. West Jordan was

the BYU Invitational May 2.

“I am not performing as well as I should.

I just need to compete more often to continue to get better,” Maxfield said.

At the Grizzly Invitational, Maxfield took third in the 200, fourth in the 110 hurdles and third in the 300 hurdles.

Grizzly senior Terrance Taumua ran the 100 hurdles in 14.85 seconds at the BYU Invitational May 2, the fifth fastest time in the state this season. Maxfield holds the eighth fastest time of 15.18 that he established at the Taylorsville Invitational April 18.

Grizzly senior Bailey Brooks jumped over six feet five inches in the boys high jump

West Jordan junior, Cloris Palacios, calms herself before her eighth place finish in the 100 meter hurdles at the Copper Hills Invitational March 28. Photo courtesy of Greg James not far behind, placing sixth overall. Twenty schools participated in the invitational.

Syracuse finished second, Juab third and Spanish Fork fourth.

Seniors Ian Maxfield and Brian Worsham have established top hurdle times for the Jaguars. Maxfield has the third fastest time in the state so far in the 300-meter hurdles.

He ran over the hurdles in 38.62 seconds at

at the Grizzly Invitational. He also has the ninth longest jump this season in the long jump, with 21 feet 4 inches.

On the girls’ teams, Copper Hill’s Makayla Duncan has done well in the shot put and discus. She placed seventh at the Davis Invitational with a discus throw of

Track Athletes continued on page 17

May 2015 | Page 17

WestJordanJournal .com

Mountain Top Wrestlers Continue Their Winning Ways

By Greg James

M

ountain Top Wrestling Club, based out of Copper Hills High School, continues to provide winning opportunities to its members. An individual state champion trophy, along with several awards, fills the club members’ trophy cabinets.

“The guys have wrestled well,” said coach Bill Kilpack via a press release. “We have consistently had guys in the finals, but things have clicked recently. It is really exciting to watch. I am very proud of them.”

“ In previous weeks we lost too

many matches in the last few seconds. After practicing this we won those last minutes. It was good to see them polishing and refining their skills.”

The wrestling club teaches and competes in three wrestling styles: freestyle, Greco-Roman and folk. It is open to male and female wrestlers ages four and older.

On April 24-25 at the Utah State Championships held at the Legacy Event Center in Farmington, Utah, Garrick Kilpack, from Sandy, won a state championship in the schoolboy’s 120

Track Athletes continued from page 16 119 feet 8 inches.

“I feel really great. I have had an extremely great season so far. I hope it keeps getting better. I need to keep getting better because I want to win state,” Duncan said.

Sophomore Kortney Tucker jumped eight feet nine inches in the girls pole vault

(10 point lead) 10-0. This was his first time to win all three of his competing brackets.

Also winning gold medals at the Corner Canyon tournament in freestyle were brothers Bryton and Kolten Bradshaw, from South Jordan. Bryton wrestles in the flyweight division (six and under) 40 lbs; Kolten at bantam (ages 7-8) 45 lbs.

Jaeden Fowers, from West Jordan, finished with a gold medal in his first ever Greco-Roman tournament.

He wrestles in the schoolboy’s division 77 lbs. Garrick Kilpack rounded out the Corner Canyon tournament Back Row (left to right): Coach Richard Fay, Craig Aguilar, Cody Mecham, winners, capturing the schoolboy’s 120 lbs. division.

Josef Mecham, Nathan Clifford, Tyler Fay, Mitchell Reese, Treyson Gibons, “The guys have wrestled well. In previous weeks Coach Bill Kilpack. Middle Row (left to right): Garrick Kilpack, Dylan Upshaw, we lost too many matches in the last few seconds. After Jackson Buehner, Conner Fullmer, Weston Fowers, Jaeden Fowers. Front Row practicing this we won those last minutes. It was good (left to right): Ryan Mecham, Easton Ellis, Cody Francisco, Alex Carpenter, to see them polishing and refining their skills,” coach Kolten Bradshaw, Bryton Bradshaw, Marcus Reyes. Photo courtesy of Richard Fry said.

Mountain Top Wrestlers Several club wrestlers are ranked according to utahwrestling.org. Fuller is ranked eighth in the schoolboy’s division and 16th overall in kids division rankings lbs. Greco-Roman division. The club also had six second(ages 4-14); Garrick Kilpack is ranked fifth in the schoolboy’s place finishers.

At the Corner Canyon tournament April 17-18, 12 club division and 11th overall. Bryton Bradshaw is seventh in the flyweight division and Kolten Bradshaw is 15th in the schoolwrestlers earned 31 awards in the three wrestling styles.

Conner Fullmer, from West Jordan, earned championships boy’s division. Fowers is 15th in the schoolboy’s division.

Mountain Top Wrestling Club is a nonprofit club dedicated in Greco-Roman, freestyle and folk style. He wrestles in the schoolboy’s division (ages 13-14) at 105 lbs. In each of his to providing a venue for wrestlers to learn and compete. Practices other three tournaments, he pinned every one of his opponents. are held three days a week at Copper Hills High School. For more l However, in the Corner Canyon match, he won by major fall information, go to www.mountaintopwrestling.com.

for the Grizzlies.

West Jordan senior Liz Maughn established a school record pole vault jump of eight feet two inches. Junior Cloris Palacious is within one second of the school’s girls 100 hurdle record.

The state track meet is scheduled for May 15-16 at Clarence F. Robinson Track and Field Stadium at Brigham Young University. l

Grizzly hurdlers Brandt Reiser and Nate Pendleton helped Copper Hills finish in first place at the Copper Hills Invitational track meet March 28. Photo courtesy of Greg James

Page 18 | May 2015

West Jordan City Journal

WHERE TO GET DISCOUNTED GIFT CARDS

$1 OFF 1 bottle of po0-pourri

By Joani Taylor

L

ast month’s story about playing the gift card game may have seemed a bit silly and extreme, but learning to use gift cards as a means of payment can save you some serious cash, especially on large ticket items or at stores and restaurants you frequent often. As promised, here are some favorite ways to put a simple gift card to work for you.

Know your bank or credit card policies. Many banks and credit unions offer bonus offers and rewards on purchases. Often, this means making a gift card purchase can earn you additional bonuses and even gift cards.

WHERE TO BUY DISCOUNTED GIFT CARDS: Knowing where to look can be all it takes to save as much as 25% on your gift card purchase.

Costco and Sam’s Club both have discounted gift cards that can save you as much as 20% off. Look for them in the store, or you can purchase them online. Also, currently Sam’s Club is offering new members a free $5.00 Sam’s Club gift card and free rotisserie chicken for joining.

Ebay.com - Discounted gift cards can be found in the “daily deal” section. These are limited, come and go without warning and sell out fast. They will often save you as much as 25% off. Locate them at http://deals.ebay.com/ shop/gift-cards-deals.

CardCash.com – This is a gift card exchange that sells a huge variety of gift cards. You’ll find everything from grocery gift cards to restaurants and department stores. Discounts depend on the gift card and can save you as much as 15%.

Looking to unload a gift card you can’t use? CardCash will purchase your gift cards from you, too.

$5.00 Kohl’s reward just for signing up.

Target offers weekly sales specials where shoppers are rewarded with Target store gift cards for purchasing select products. Plus, if there are coupons for these products, you can use them when making your purchase. These additional savings can often make your products completely free, after considering the gift card. For a current list of which products STORES WITH GIFT CARD DEALS: have gift card promotions, visit www.totallytarget.com/giftMany stores have rewards programs and bonuses that can card-deals/. get you additional savings on gift cards for their store, and sometimes other stores, too. ow, just imagine: Purchase a Kohl’s gift card at Smith’s often offers 4X fuel rewards on gift card Smith’s during a 4x fuel reward promotion, using purchases. The offer is typically valid on any gift card, your credit card that offers bonus points, then head to except for a Smith’s store gift card, and usually has to be Kohl’s to make your purchase. Use the Kohl’s gift card loaded digitally onto your Smith’s Shoppers card. Smith’s you purchased at Smith’s and get Yes2Rewards Kohl’s is also known for offering digital coupons for gift cards. credit. That’s what we call a triple dip. And, I haven’t For example, just a couple of weeks ago they had a digital even mentioned Kohl’s Cash or coupons! coupon valid for $5.00 off a $20 Payless Shoes gift card.

Other stores that have great rewards programs are: Kohl’s has a program called Yes2Rewards where Best Buy, Staples, Office Depot, Famous Footwear, Sears/ shoppers earn points with each purchase. The points will Kmart, and JCPenney. then automatically convert to Kohl’s gift cards. This great That’s my frugal wisdom for this month. Next month, program is in addition to weeks when they have Kohl’s I’ll share with you our favorite apps and websites that can cash, and you don’t need a Kohl’s card to join the program. bag you completely free gift cards, along with my idea of It’s free to join, and currently new members will receive a a fun, and frugal, date night.

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spotlight on: Rocky Mountain Care

A

s the population ages, more of us are faced with the prospect of moving either ourselves or an older family member into a nursing or assisted living home. Often, the very thought brings to mind images of cold, impersonal hallways, and lonely people.

Hunter Hollow in West Valley City is here to challenge that image and prove that skilled nursing centers are communities that enhance a person’s quality of life, and make it fun to be in their care.

“As we built [Hunter Hollow], we didn’t want it to feel like a long care facility,” explains Michael Fender, executive director of Hunter Hollow. “We want it to be viewed as a wellness community.”

It’s easy to see it that way, when considering all the amenities available at Hunter Hollow. They have been awarded “Best in Class” for long care facilities, and make it a point to offer a new and different experience. With chef prepared meals, private dining, WIFI and pay-per-view, it is easy to feel as if you are in a 5-star hotel. Also available at Hunter Hollow is a beauty salon, complete with a manicurist and pedicurist, a movie theater, and even an ice cream parlor.

Furthermore, Hunter Hollow provides its community members a very active lifestyle. The recreational department always has something fun for residents to participate in. Whether it is going to a play in the theater, or swimming on a swim team, the caregivers are actively engaged and passionate about providing individualized care.

“We are acutely interested in people having a positive transition, even when they lose some of their independence though stroke or accident,” says Michael. “We are passionate about finding ways to help people do what they know and

love, no matter what.”

Not only does Hunter Hollow provide a great community for their long-term residents, they provide short-term stays for people who need to rehabilitate after a major event. Therapy services are available to all qualifying patients 7 days a week in a spacious therapy gym with a team of dedicated therapists. Along with therapists, there are physicians present 7 days a week to make sure everyone is taken care of.

“Our short-term and long-term residents are kept separate,” explains Michael of the design of Hunter Hollow’s building.

“Short-term residents are escorted by a porter to their room, like you are in a 5-star hotel. They enjoy a comfortable stay, and leave after about 32 days. Long-term residents literally move in, and this allows them to build relationships with their neighbors, just like in any other community.”

C

ome experience the difference at Rocky Mountain Care’s Hunter Hollow. You can take a tour at any time by dropping by 4090 West Pioneer Parkway in West Valley City to see what makes it feel just like home. l

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Just a Mom

By Peri Kinder

F

or years I was just a mom. When people asked what I did for a living, I’d respond, “I’m just a stay-at-home mom.” Ironically, I was never home. I was shuttling kids to and from softball, swimming, dance, school and the mall. I spent approximately 20 years living in my van—and I wasn’t even homeless.

Being a full-time mom is exhausting. People who’ve never spent 24 hours with small children Have No Idea how listening to the opening notes of “Sesame Street” for the billionth time can make your ear drums bleed.

I’d wake up early to enjoy some alone time and hear the shuffling of pajama-footed feet as a toddler waddled into the kitchen and onto my lap where she rested against my chest, smelling like baby shampoo, warm blankets and dreams. I’d put my nose in her hair, inhale that scent and think: remember this.

I’d snuggle with my daughters on the couch with piles of library books. We’d read about hungry caterpillars, wicked witches, Sneetches, wild things and little blue engines. I’d share stories about being kind, wise and brave, and I’d pray those messages would stick.

A favorite activity was making cinnamon rolls, letting the girls bake their own sugar-covered creations. They would be coated with flour, butter and cinnamon, and the same ingredients blanketed the floor, but it was okay. It was cleanable. Memories

LOCATING GRAPHIC lasted longer than spilled milk.

Depending on the day, my girls were princesses, gypsies, cheerleaders or demons. They’d walk down the sidewalk with pink, plastic high-heeled shoes slapping the soles of their feet, or wear queen costumes while racing on Big Wheels, catching the fabric under the wheels until all their dresses had shredded hems.

There were thousands of homework assignments, reading logs and math quizzes, and hundreds of times hearing: “My teacher hates me” or “I don’t get it. Explain it again.”

At night, there were bedtime stories, bedtime songs and bedtime prayers: all the rituals kids need to keep their moms around a few more moments, delaying sleep just a little bit longer.

But sleep was never a reprieve. I’d often go from comalevel slumber to caffeine-addict wide awake in five seconds

We s t Jo r d an Jo u r n a l . c o m

or less, wakened by a cry, and sometimes the undeniably disgusting sound of vomit hitting the sheets or carpet.

And the next day I’d do it all again.

I was so jealous of my neighbor. She’d go to work each morning dressed in a classy skirt and blazer, looking important and doing important things. She was able to talk to grown-ups all day, and probably didn’t have to tell any co-worker to stop wiping their boogers on the couch.

She didn’t go to bed scraping Play-Doh out of her hair.

She didn’t watch Cinderella all day or have to be the Ken doll all the time. I schlepped around the house 24/7 in stained yoga paints and T-shirts, listening to poop jokes and kids telling on each other.

Because the grass is always greener, maybe she wished she could be a slacker like me, eating cold fish sticks and playing Chutes and Ladders for hours at a time.

We were far from rich, but we were also far from poor.

It was a time when Band-Aids and kisses healed skinned knees, and chocolate chip cookies and hugs mended broken hearts. And even though it was an emotionally, mentally and physically exhausting time, I’m so grateful for my daughters’ childhoods.

I’m so thankful I was able to play and laugh and love.

Even though I was just a mom. l