WAVOIDING HOLIDAY SCAMS:
ith the holiday season approaching, it’s important to stay vigilant against the various scams that tend to spike this time of year. Criminals prey on the increased shopping, gift-giving, and charitable activities, using schemes that range from package theft to online fraud. Here’s what you need to watch for.
Tips to Keep Your Money and Packages Safe
donors. Beware of donating to Go Fund Me fundraisers unless you know the people involved and have confirmed they created it.
Booking Scams: Stick to reputable travel sites. Check the URL and watch for misspellings or strange characters. Scammers often create look-alike sites to steal your information or money.
If you fall victim to a scam, report it immediately to FTC.gov or your local authorities. Stay safe this holiday season—when in doubt, remember: if it seems too good to be true, it probably is!
unattended or cars unlocked, even for a quick trip
Package Theft and Vehicle Break-Ins: With more deliveries, “porch pirates” are on the lookout. Consider installing a doorbell or security camera, or opt-in for secure delivery options like Amazon Key or garage delivery services. If you can’t be home, ask a neighbor to pick up your packages. Never leave running vehicles unattended or cars unlocked, even for a quick trip inside. It’s an invitation to criminals to at least rummage through your vehicle, and at worst, take off with it.
Social Media Ad Scams: Be wary of deals on social media that seem too good to be true—they often are. Scammers use ads to sell counterfeit or non-existent items. Before purchasing, research the seller, look for customer reviews, and avoid deals that direct you to unusual checkout pages.
Many receive texts
Package Delivery Text Scams: Many receive texts claiming there’s an issue with a delivery and asking for personal information. Never click on these links or provide details. Verify directly through the carrier’s website using a tracking number.
If someone asks you to pay with a gift
Gift Card Scams: If someone asks you to pay with a gift card, it’s a scam. Legitimate companies and charities will never request payments this way. Scammers often trick people into thinking they’re helping out a friend or relative in urgent need.
Charity Scams: Research charities on CharityNavigator. org before donating. Scammers create fake websites or send out phishing emails to steal from well-meaning
FIND THE HIDDEN BEE IN THIS ISSUE OF THE FOCUS AND BRING IT IN TO CITY HALL TO WIN A PRIZE!*
*PRIZES ARE FOR THE FIRST 10 PEOPLE WHO COME IN
Meet Eric Dowdle at Light the Night for an Exclusive Puzzle Signing!
Don’t miss your chance to meet renowned folk artist Eric Dowdle at this year’s Light the Night event, where he’ll be signing the exclusive South Jordan puzzle! Known for his vibrant and whimsical depictions of beloved locations, Dowdle has captured the charm of South Jordan in this beautiful puzzle—making it the perfect holiday gift for residents and puzzle enthusiasts alike.
Available in 100, 500, or 1000-piece sets, these unique puzzles are just $20 + tax. A signed copy from Dowdle himself adds
a personal touch, turning this beautiful piece into a one-of-a-kind keepsake. Can’t attend? Skip the lines and order online today (note: no signature included for online orders).
Celebrate the beauty of South Jordan and share it with friends and family this holiday season. Be sure to grab yours while supplies last!
2023
SLOW DOWN!
Remember, for every ten miles per hour over fifty, the risk of death in a traffic crash doubles.
Traffic Tip
12-6-2023 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Eric Dowdle signs puzzles at the South Jordan Community Center during the unveiling event
City Event Calendar
NOVEMBER 2024
MORE INFO AT SJC.UTAH.GOV
VETERANS DAY BREAKFAST
9:00 AM-11:00 AM
Community Center, 10778 S. Redwood Rd.
All veterans invited. Call 801-302-1222 for more information.
SOJO VETERANS DAY RUCK & SOJO TURKEY RUN
Nov. 9 l Veterans Day Ruck: 9:00 AM l Skye Park
Nov. 16 l Turkey Run: 10:00 AM l East Riverfront Park sjc.utah.gov/239/SoJo-Race-Series
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
6:30 PM
City Hall at 1600 W. Towne Center Dr. & Online sjc.utah.gov/city-council
SENIOR PROGRAMS: THANKSGIVING BANQUET
11:30 PM
Community Center, 10778 S. Redwood Rd.
Space is limited. Call 801-302-1222 to reserve a spot.
GINGERBREAD NIGHT OUT WORKSHOP
6:00 PM-8:00 PM
The Gale Museum, 10300 S. Beckstead Ln. register.sjc.utah.gov
DECEMBER 2024
LIGHT THE NIGHT
6:00 PM-8:00 PM Towne Center Dr.
Start growing your beard for the Holiday Beard Contest!
A
s we approach the Thanksgiving season, my heart is full as I contemplate the many reasons we have to be thankful here in South Jordan. We live in an incredible place! And our community thrives because of the dedication and hard work of many, from city employees to our local businesses and residents.
residents. The arts help connect us and foster a sense of place in our community, bringing entertainment and joy to so many along the way.
This Thanksgiving, I am extremely thankful for our great country and the cherished right we have to vote and participate in democracy. It is a privilege that gives each of us a voice and the opportunity to make a difference.
I’m also deeply appreciative of the amazing progress we’ve seen in South Jordan. Our strong economic development, thriving new businesses, and steadfast long-time establishments continue to elevate the city. This success would not be possible without the collaborative efforts of our business community and the support of our city council and residents.
I want to express my deepest gratitude to South Jordan City’s employees who work tirelessly every day to keep our city running smoothly. To the police officers and firefighters who ensure our safety, to the parks, streets and water workers who maintain our beautiful city, to our recreation and events staff who put together such awesome community activities, and to the Information Center agents who are the voice of South Jordan, fielding every call with a commitment to serve. Your dedication makes our city a place we can all be proud to call home.
I am also thankful for the outstanding educators at each of our South Jordan schools, those of you who shape the minds of our rising generations. Your commitment to providing an excellent education while prioritizing the well-being of our children is a gift that will outlive all of us.
I want to express gratitude for the vibrant arts programming in our city, and for the support from so many who recognize the value of creativity and expression in enhancing the lives of our
2024 SCHEDULE
Finally, I am extremely thankful for the opportunity to serve as your mayor. USA Today got it right when they named South Jordan one of the Best Cities to Live in America. As we reflect on all we have to be grateful for this season, I encourage everyone to spend time with those you love. When you go out, please support our local businesses. Life is rarely easy for anyone and I realize there may be many among us experiencing difficult challenges today. But I believe we can each find much to be thankful for. This beautiful season is a time to appreciate what we have, give back in whatever way we can, show an extra measure of kindness to those around us, and celebrate the people and opportunities that make South Jordan such a wonderful place to live.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your families!
