November 2018 | Vol. 18 Iss. 11
FREE
HILLCREST DRILL ENCOMPASSES THEME ‘Full Heart’ after losing one of their own By Julie Slama | julie@mycityjournals.com
T
his month, Hillcrest High drill team members may be found putting a sticky note up on a locker or on a restroom mirror with words of kindness and compassion. It’s been about six months of shock, disbelief, anger, hope and healing for the 34 girls and coaches since team member Olivia Rodgerson was in a car accident in early June on the way to practice one morning. Following the accident, she was in a coma and on life support until Aug. 22, the first day of school. Olivia would have been a junior and third-year drill team member. “We were so lucky to have her on the team and to have known her,” Coach Chelsea Divine said. “She was a great representative of who we are. She was a beautiful person and dancer and a friend who accepted everyone; she didn’t judge. To many, Liv was known to be full of life and at times a real prankster. She was fun, put humor into everything, but she was respectful and a good academic student, on the honor roll.” During November, Hillcrest drill team is showing how they are thankful for her friendship and in her honor, are reaching out with acts of kindness, Divine said. “We are ‘Liv Strong,’ and she wouldn’t think of not taking one minute of time to make others happier, to give them a smile,” she said, adding that the team also will help the Utah Food Bank this month. “When we picked the theme, ‘Full Heart,’ it was chosen to keep the team united and unbreakable because when we’re together, we can accomplish and do great things. With Liv, it has taken on a whole other meaning.” Before the high school counselors offered support this fall, senior drill member Katie Morrison said the team rallied around each other in the summer. “A few girls were behind her coming to practice and saw the accident so our coach and two others went to the scene,” Morrison said. “Then Chelsea called and we put her on speaker so we could all hear what happened. We circled around and prayed for her. We were there all summer, supporting each other, visiting her at the hospital. Our team is really close.” Olivia’s family also has become a pillar to the Hillcrest team. “Her family has given us so much strength,” Divine said. “They supported us at our fundraising car wash when she was in the hospital. Her dad brought us pizza. They are always here for us just as they were before.”
Hillcrest High School Drill team will perform this season without junior Olivia Rodgerson, who lost her life in a car accident. (Photo courtesy of Hights Photography)
It’s not just the drill team. Her family, who spoke at her August service, also sent words shortly before she died to Hillcrest’s soccer team, who rallied around Olivia by wearing hair ribbons with her favorite color, purple, and wrote “Liv Strong,” on their legs at their game. Olivia’s friend, and a captain of the Hillcrest soccer team, junior Shay McQuiston, said it was her idea, along with teammate junior Lija Lubavs, to honor her before the game against Jordan High on Aug. 21. “Wearing purple to me is a reminder of ‘you got this girl’ because that was Liv’s favorite phrase,” Shay said. “Liv was a person who could put a smile on anyone’s face, whether you were close to her or not. She had this amazing laugh where even if you didn’t find the joke funny, you were laughing with her. She was always the first person who was up for a crazy adventure (and) she was the sweetest, most genuine girl and always knew how to make someone feel good about themselves.” The cross country team honored both Olivia and fellow classmate, 16-year-old Waylon Reed, Jr., who died Aug. 20, right
before the beginning of the school year, at their Aug. 25 meet and the school’s student body officers requested everyone wear purple for them at school in late August. Beyond Hillcrest, others sent their wishes during the summer to the drill team and to Olivia as well as after the Aug. 25 service, which was held at the Living Planet Aquarium. There, 1,200 bracelets, the type Olivia had loved making, were made in her honor and were distributed to her friends. “The drill community is amazing,” Divine said. “Every team sent posters, cards, flowers of outreach and support. It has been truly humbling and beyond appreciated by all of us.” Divine added that through it all, the family has continued to support the team. “Her mom is truly amazing. Her strength and unwavering positivity through everything was inspiring for all of us. We all love Liv’s family so much,” she said. But at first, Morrison said there was an adjustment to dancing without Olivia, especially the hip hop piece, where she stood next to her. Continued on page 5...
Thank You to our Community Sponsors for supporting City Journals Local Postal Customer ECRWSS
Presort Std U.S. Postage PAID Riverton, UT Permit #44
gone digital. The world has gone digital.
Internet service has become essential for success.
Neuropathy? Numbness & Tingling?
That’s why we created Internet Essentials. Internet
Internet service has become essential for success. EssentialsSM is truly affordable home Internet, training That’s why we created Internet Essentials. Internet and computers foraffordable income-qualified families.training Essentials is truly home internet, and computers for income-qualified families. SM
Neuropathy Examination
New treatment available! No drugs, no surgery ! Get lasting relief!
$49
Call today! 801-256-0006 Call 1-855-8-INTERNET
$9.95 /month Call 1-855-8-INTERNET InternetEssentials.com or visit No contract or visit InternetEssentials.com No hidden fees for qualifications and more information.
7840 South 700 East Sandy, UT 84070
for qualifications and more information.
IE.Spectator Guide.AD.indd 1
Page 2 | November 2018
2/8/18 12:10 PM
Midvale City Journal
MidvaleJournal.com
November 2018 | Page 3
Small town hero inducted to Midvale Hall of Honors By Heather Sky | heather@mycityjournals.com The Midvale City Journal is a monthly publication distributed directly to residents via the USPS as well as locations throughout Midvale. 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 Midvale Team CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Bryan Scott bryan@mycityjournals.com EDITOR: Travis Barton travis@mycityjournals.com ADVERTISING: 801-254-5974 DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING: Ryan Casper ryan.casper@mycityjournals.com 801-671-2034 SALES ASSOCIATES: Melissa Worthen melissa@mycityjournals.com 801-897-5231 Tracy Langer Tracy.l@mycityjournals.com 385-557-1021 CIRCULATION COORDINATOR: Brad Casper circulation@mycityjournals.com EDITORIAL & AD DESIGN: Ty Gorton Sierra Daggett Amanda Luker
Midvale City Journal 9500 South 500 West Suite 205 Sandy, UT 84070 Phone: 801 254 5974
Designed, Published & Distributed by
T
here’s a certain virtue in stories of small town beginnings. Joseph Mazuran was born in Midvale in 1920 to parents who were Yugoslav immigrants. He lived his entire life of 68 years in Midvale and wore his origins as a badge of honor. Mazuran loved his community and loved to serve. He was known by his family as an avid fisherman, devoted grandfather and always said he “wouldn’t live anywhere else.” “He felt Midvale was the greatest town on the map,” said Mazuran’s son-in-law, Burke Wells. Every year, the Midvale Arts Council recognizes a notable individual who has made a significant contribution to the betterment of Midvale City. Thanks to the detailed application submitted by Wells, Mazuran became the most recent Hall of Honor Inductee during the 2018 Harvest Days celebration. Mazuran devoted his life to the betterment of the city he loved. Throughout his lifetime of service, he contributed to his community in a wide range of capacities. Mazuran served as mayor of Midvale from 1970-1974 and chief of police from 1952-1959. He was a city councilman for eight years, a volunteer fireman for the Midvale Fire Department for 36 years, and served on the Salt Lake County Merit Commission for six years. A former star athlete, Mazuran coached WBBA baseball in Midvale, and worked at the Trail Sports Center for 11 years. He retired from the Salt Lake County Roads and Bridges Department in 1984. “He was always willing to give of his time, expertise, and talents to better the city he loved,” said Wells. Throughout Mazuran’s career with the Unified Police Department, he launched several youth programs and clubs to combat juvenile delinquency. He created a Youth Job Program to work with local businesses to keep adolescents off the streets, and received a personal letter from C. Nelson Day—Assistant United States Attorney—to commend him for his efforts. He also worked with the youth as a Little League coach, presented awards to student crossing guards, and solved “tough cases” brought to his
Joseph Mazuran lived his entire life in Midvale, he was recently inducted into the Hall of Honors. (Photos provided by Burke Wells)
attention by Midvale Elementary School students who all knew and loved him. Mazuran was one of the most popular and prominent officers within the precinct and upon his resignation as chief, he received a multitude of thank-you letters for his service—written by school children, the president of the local bank, the Utah Department of Public Safety, the US Congress Legislative Assistant, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. There are numerous newspaper articles entailing Mazuran’s devotion, many of which were preserved by the Midvale Museum and can now be found online at digitalnewspapers.org Mazuran passed away in 1988. He left behind his wife, Alice, and their two daughters—
Kathleen and Marsha. And 57 years after his assignment as chief of police, Mazuran’s great nephew—Jason Mazuran—took on the role in 2016, where he was sworn in as chief of police for Midvale City by the Unified Police Department. He successfully carried on Joe’s legacy for over a year. Mazuran’s determination to fight for justice from a place of high morals did not go unnoticed, and he made lifelong friends while devoting his life to his family and community. Even after all these years, the community is still learning from their beloved chief of police, mayor, friend, husband, father, and grandfather. Mazuran is a small town hero who will always be remembered by the city he loved. l
Thank You
to our Community Sponsors for supporting City Journals
MISSION STATEMENT Our mission is to inform and entertain our community while promoting a strong local economy via relevant content presented across a synergetic network of print and digital media.
free l community l papers
Page 4 | November 2018
Midvale City Journal
Continued from front page...
“We’d refer to the position as Liv’s spot and it was hard because I didn’t want anyone to take her spot. I didn’t want anyone to replace her. I knew she was strong so I was telling myself she’d come back,” she said. “I remember her in our military dance. She had this fierce face so I knew while she was in the coma, she was fighting and strong. That’s how I knew we were Liv Strong and why we’re dedicating our dancing to her.” This season, their lyrical dance, “For My Help,” will be performed in Olivia’s honor, Divine said. The team will wear purple costumes. “Through hard times, our girls can help each other through it, through their dancing. It’s a very emotional piece, but together, it will be beautiful. Drill is a sisterhood and family and Olivia will be looking down, dancing with them and loving her friends,” she said. “We’ve learned to give each day our best and not to take anything for granted.” Already, the team has performed at football games, cheering together, “Liv Strong,” before taking the field. Each day as they begin practice, they count off their roll call numbers, together saying Olivia’s number – 14. “That was one of our captains, (senior) Michelle Sluga’s idea,” Morrison said. “We were all thinking about her and it was difficult to talk about it initially. So every morning when we counted off, we’d write her number in purple on our wrist and together, say her number. In a way, she’s still here, bringing us together and
we’re letting her friends in the student section know we’re thinking of her.” The theme, “Full Heart,” continues beyond this month, stretching into drill team’s season. “We want them to have the vision and enthusiasm to excel in everything they do with pride, honoring their school and their sport. When they have the commitment and are fully invested, their passion will shine through,” Divine said. The team’s first competition will be against about 10 other 6A teams on Dec. 1 at the Wasatch Drill Invitational, followed by the Utah Valley Classic the next weekend. Their last invitational will be the Jan. 12, 2019 Rocky Mountain Invitational held at Corner Canyon High School. Region will be held Jan. 24, 2019 at Hunter High and state prelims are Jan. 30, 2019 followed by the final on Feb. 2, 2019 at Utah Valley University. Updates on the team’s performances will be posted on Instagram (@hillcrest_drill) as well as on the Hillcrest drill team Facebook page. “Our goal is for our team to show their love of each other and the sport they love as they do their best,” Divine said, who has coached the team to four consecutive region titles in her four years as head coach. “It’s the strength of our team and community and the love of dance that is keeping us focused for (Olivia) and for each other.” l Hillcrest High School junior Olivia Rodgerson was to begin her third year on the school drill team before she lost her life in a car accident. (Photo courtesy of Hillcrest drill team)
GARAGE DOOR REPAIR $29 Value & INSTALLATION 801-406-6670 $99 FREE SERVICE CALL
I Don’t Just List Homes,
I Sell Them!
If you are thinking about buying or selling your property, please allow me to share my experience with you when you are looking for a place to call home.
During normal business hours: Mon-Fri 8-5. Offer expires 11/15/18.
Broken Springs starting at only
34+ Years OF
Experience “Real Estate Joe” Olschewski 801-573-5056
joeolschewski41@gmail.com
MidvaleJournal.com
Offer is per spring installed.Not valid with any other offers.
Expires 11/15/18
FREE
garage y new ase n a / w d h Keypa pener purc door o
•13 Years Experience •Certified/Trained Technicians •Locally Owned & Operated •24/7 Emergency Service •Normal Business Hours 8:00-5:00 •We Honor Our Word and Stand by Our Work! •Ask About Our Warranty/Guarantee
UtahGarageDoors.net
$49
95
$89 95 Value
Annual Lube, Tune Up & Inspection During normal business hours: Mon-Fri 8-5. Price is per door. Offer expires 11/15/18.
$200 OFF
Standard Double Steel Back Door with 8550 LM Motor Not valid with any other offers. Offer expires 11/15/18.
November 2018 | Page 5
Hillcrest wins Shakespeare sweepstakes, set for fall musical By Julie Slama | julie@mycityjournals.com
A
fter repeating as the sweepstakes winner — and in the process of taking first place in ensemble with “Julius Caesar,” first place in tech Olympics, second place in monologue and third in a trio scene — at the 42nd annual Utah High School Shakespeare competition, Hillcrest High students already were in rehearsals for their fall musical, “Hairspray.” “It’s always great to see their hard work recognized and it’s cool to see them perform so well,” theatre director Josh Long said about his Shakespeare team. “It’s a good win for our stage crew. They’re showing great consistency.” Hillcrest High theatre president and senior Jack Cobabe also pointed out a new part of the school’s Shakespeare team. “We were also the first school ever to bring with us, a Spanish language Shakespeare team, and they too did amazing things,” he said. Their accomplishment was not only placing fourth place, but surprising the judges, Long said. “The judges were taken back that they presented it all in Spanish. They didn’t know what to do,” he said. “I wanted to include Spanish speakers in our team to reflect the diversity of our population. Along the same lines, that is what we’re wanting all year, to show our diversity and lift each other. Theatre reflects humanity and I want to break
barriers and allow the audience to see more themselves on stage. That’s why I picked ‘Hairspray.’ I want to celebrate our community.” About 250 students will take part in “Hairspray,” which will be performed at 7 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 15 through Saturday, Nov. 17 and again, on Monday, Nov. 19 at Hillcrest High School’s auditorium, 7350 S. 900 East. Tickets will be available at hillcresttheatre.com. Leads include junior Grace Zito as Tracy Turnblad; sophomore Ethan Kendrick as Edna Turnblad; junior Caroline Ciet as Penny Pingleton; senior Darryl Ifote as Seaweed Stubbs; senior Kami Loertscher as Motormouth Maybelle; senior Ian Williams as Link Larkin; senior Ethan Pearce as Corny Collins; junior Bailey Hunt as Amber Von Tussle; senior Aleisha Meier as Velma Von Tussle; and senior Jeremiah Goates as Wilbur Turnblad. Cobabe, who plays a guard in the musical, supports more inclusion on stage. “‘Hairspray’ is such a fun show with a wonderful meaning,” he said about the fourth musical he has been in at Hillcrest. “I really like how this show celebrates diversity across the board. There are so many different types of people in our world, and in theater, we try to tell all of their stories.” Cobabe said through his theater experiences, he has learned much from his teachers and directors, Long and Giselle
Gremmert. “What they’ve taught us in theatre directly applies to real life, and literally makes us into better people. I believe that people can truly be changed through live theatre,” he said. He said that includes supporting students. “Students are given full freedom with making acting choices. If a choice doesn’t work out, the directors help the actor come up with a better choice. The directors also make sure everyone’s choices align, and positively add to the concept of the show,” Cobabe said, adding that specific goals are set for each show. The support extends beyond the actors on the stage. “Here, at Hillcrest, we have an amazing pit orchestra. This means that we have a full live soundtrack for our performances which adds so much to the overall show. We also are blessed with the best stage crew in the state of Utah. The stage crew builds all of our set, as well as takes care of all technical needs. Both of these groups have added so much to our department, and we are very thankful for them,” he said. Long said that “Hairspray” will provide a challenge to both the stage crew and instrumental students. “Giselle’s students have created a whole different look than we’ve ever had before and are going to be showing live feed around the stage with TV
Hillcrest High’s Shakespeare team was all smiles with their first place wins in the ensemble and in tech Olympics, which helped them to win first in sweepstakes at the Utah High School Shakespearean competition. (Photo courtesy of Hillcrest High)
Page 6 | November 2018
Midvale City Journal
screens. The stage crew is always looking at different technology and different ways for the audience to have better experiences. They also are building an extension on the stage, which is where the orchestra pit usually is. For this show, we plan to have the orchestra more visual, on stage as part of the show, which will be a lot more fun. We also will feature different musicians than we did with ‘Les Mis’ and offering new styles of learning with that music,” he said. “This way, we can celebrate each other’s art form, hard work and how people are different than themselves and they can find that great connection through music and dance.” Studentbody president and senior Landon Nipko, who is the sound designer for the show, said that while he has “never had a problem with being behind the scenes or unnoticed,” he realizes that the “actors for each of the plays and musicals put unbelievable effort into their roles and practice for ridiculous amounts of time to make sure their performance is as perfect and powerful as possible.” In stage crew, Nipko knew they often go unnoticed. “I joined stage crew knowing we don’t get very much recognition, and I have never felt the need to receive attention for what I have done,” he said. “It is kind of interesting because our jobs are done best if we go unnoticed. We are supposed to help the audience get lost in the play, and if they are noticing us that means we are distracting from the message of the play.” Nipko said the concept for creating the set for “Hairspray” is different than others. “Unlike many of the previous sets we have built at Hillcrest, we are not trying to make the set for ‘Hairspray’ literal,” he said. “Meaning, rather than recreate Baltimore and the settings of the scenes, the set pieces are more designed to abstractly represent these locations.” Nipko, who has been involved in sets since middle school, said set pieces for musicals must be more mobile than those of plays. “Because of the musical numbers and dancing, nearly every set piece needs to be on wheels, so it can be quickly moved on and off the stage, moved during transitions, and moved as a part of the choreography of a scene,” he said. “Multiple aspects of stage crew are appealing to me, but I think it can best be summed up by saying it is the problem-solving involved. Everything from building the sets to fixing a mic requires critical thinking and judgment.” Jazz band president and senior Colby Eldridge said that through playing in the musical orchestra pit for the past three seasons, he has learned more difficult music than that of what he performs with the three bands he plays with for concerts. “It’s a lot harder music,” he said. “The key is more difficult and the rhythm are more advanced than the music we’ve been playing in Jazz Band.” Rehearsals for musicians, as well as vocalists and actors, began early in the school year. “We’ve been having rehearsals every day for the pit, but we also have had sectionals and are expected to know our music beforehand,”
MidvaleJournal.com
You are invited & dinner is on us!
Dinner Seminar
Learn more about Advanced Funeral Planning • Wills • Trusts • Burial Plots • Cremation
Seminar Dates: November 13th at 6:30 pm About 250 Hillcrest High students will perform “Hairspray” this November. (Amelia Slama-Catron/Hillcrest High)
said Eldridge, who plays all but three band instruments and would like to have a career in music education. “We have to be ready if the actors get lost or miss a cue and be able to improvise or repeat a bar or two. Usually, by performance nights, we all have it done so it becomes fun, and not super stressful. It’s pretty neat how it all comes together.” While Eldridge plays under the direction of the play’s orchestra director, Austin Hilla, vocal director RaNae Dalgleish often is aware of what the orchestra is doing as well as the vocal lead coach, Brian Bentley. Bentley teaches student for the first six weeks, then hands over the reins to Dalgleish, who has been working with the chorus to ensure the students are singing the right notes. “I’m also the adviser to the strings, since I teach the orchestra students, but this show really has more of a swing, jazz band sound that is heavy on the saxophones,” she said, adding that with “Hairspray,” there are seven string instrumentalists and the rest of the group are band instrumentalists and percussion. “These students have a high caliber of being able to play music and are giving more commitment. Being on stage will give our orchestra kids a whole new look.” In the 12 years Dalgleish has been a part of Hillcrest musicals, she said there have been challenges. “During ‘Seussical,’ our power went out. It’s a show that relies heavily on electronics – three keyboards, an electrical guitar, bass gui-
tar. My first thought as orchestra director was panic, but then I just kept going and let the music come out of the strings. At intermission, we learned we blew a fuse and got power cords to give us electricity from the choir room. In the dress rehearsal, Horton fell on top of the violinists and ended up with a mild concussion. He was able to perform. But we always need to be able to roll with it,” she said, adding that in the “Will Rogers Follies,” she had two days to prepare to direct the orchestra after the former band director fell off stage and broke her leg. Throughout the rehearsals, Dalgleish said the best part is seeing the dedication of the students and the realization of their accomplishment come opening curtain. “My favorite moment is when these kids finally realize their hard work pays off,” she said. “It’s that opening night, in front of a real audience, when they have the confidence and know they can pull it off. They believe in themselves and the whole team from the actors singing in the aisles to the leads to the violins, and realize the amount of work even parent volunteers have put in, and they think, ‘this is so cool.’” Hillcrest’s season also includes “Sunday in the Park with George,” showing Jan. 24, 2019 through Jan. 26, 2019; “Witness for the Prosecution,” on stage March 14, 2019 through March 16, 2019; and “Copperfield,” May 16, 2019 through May 18, 2019. Theatre students also plan to compete in their regional contest in March, at state in April as well as in the musical theatre competition in late spring. l
Famous Dave’s West Jordan 7273 S. Plaza Center Dr
November 15th at 6:00 pm Golden Corral West Valley 3399 West 3500 South
November 20th at 6:00 pm Golden Corral Midvale 665 East 7200 South
No Obligation FREE Dinner Provided Please call to reserve your seat
Seating is Limited!
801-509-9798
Thanks for supporting us since 1950. Ask us about all your pre-planning needs. 4330 South Redwood Road Taylorsville, UT 84123
McDougalFuneralHomes.com
November 2018 | Page 7
Behind school walls: Schools, districts address students’ concerns, needs and safety Schools and school districts provide more services than buses, textbooks By Julie Slama | julie@mycityjournals.com
L
ast year, a female student in a Granite School District secondary school broke up with her boyfriend. However, before the breakup, she sent inappropriate photos of herself to him, which he then threatened to send to others. District officials were able to seize the devices, collect images and put a stop to the potential spread of child pornography, and at the same time provide comfort to the female student that those photos weren’t spread. “It was brought to our attention, so we were able to act quickly,” Granite School District spokesman Ben Horsley said. “We need our students to be able to feel safe to be able to learn, and once someone violates that, such as with internet safety, it impacts our school environment.” Internet safety is just one of many concerns school administrators and school district officials are managing these days, which include not having enough school bus drivers; increasing enrollment, resulting in not having enough lockers, textbooks or seats for students in class; and being concerned about going over the student limit assigned to teachers. School districts need to be concerned with medical and food issues, content material, sexual harassment and safety matters that aren’t seen by the general public. “We’re dealing with issues that didn’t even exist 10 or 20 years ago,” Horsley said. “But we’re wanting to create an environment and a community that is safe and all-encompassing and provides resources, skills and knowledge.” Internet safety Horsley said about 80 to 85 percent of Granite schoolchildren carry a cellphone — even many low socio-economic families. “It’s considered a must-have item, but with parents working, there are many students using it without supervision and that’s when cyberbullying, sexting, viewing pornography on school property comes about,” he said, adding that the district does provide a parents’ guide for smartphones. While Horsley said the district works with administrators and, when needed, law enforcement on a case-by-case basis, a positive with cellphones has come about with the use of the SafeUT app, which allows anyone to anonymously report tips of harassment, suicide, threats, family crisis, bullying and other issues. “Granite has a 24/7 police department that can follow up on tips that are threatening, drug abuse, cutting, suicide and welfare checks,” he said, adding that the district is receiving more tips — about 1,000 last year — than their anonymous text line that has been in place for years. “We’ve had three instances where classmates have tipped us off and saved lives.” At nearby Murray School District, spokeswoman D Wright said social media is a concern. “Messaging incorrectly is something everybody is concerned about,” she said. “Our
Page 8 | November 2018
principals have jurisdiction first, then if needed, the school district and others are brought in. We look at the individual and what the best outcome is for our student.” Elk Meadows Elementary’s Aaron Ichimura, who has been a principal for six years in Jordan School District, said he has occasionally had to deal with postings on social media. “Usually, it’s rude comments like so-andso should have something bad happen because the student may be unhappy with something that happened at recess, but they could be back to being best friends the next day,” he said. “When it disrupts what’s going on at school, we bring in the students and parents and discuss respect, responsibility and safety. We’ve had a couple times where we can delete a post, but they also learn that once something is online, it can be there forever.” Alta High Principal Brian McGill, in Canyons District, said each grade level has a digital citizenship plan and policies are reviewed annually. The school hosts, as many do throughout the Salt Lake Valley, a Netsmartz assembly where students learn about their responsibilities on social media. While McGill said that sometimes the line is carefully walked with students’ First Amendment rights, there will be questions asked if there is a statement, for example to a teacher, that is defamatory or threatening. “We will ask questions on the intent and perception and note if this is a kind of message that people will take offense,” he said. Mental health Murray School District Prevention Specialist Deb Ashton said mental health is becoming a big concern for their students. The district has instituted a national program to help with the social and emotional well-being of students. “A lot of decisions go into which evidence-based programs we use, and we research the issues being addressed and the need for bully and cyberbully prevention,” she said. Suicide prevention also has been part of Murray District’s push, as suicide is the leading cause of death for secondary school students, Ashton said. “We work with students and parents getting referrals and the tools they need to get help,” she said. “This is our first year with schoolbased mental health clinicians in our schools. With the high rate of suicide, we see mental health issues intertwined with depression and our students are struggling with the issues, so we’re making it easier for them to get help. “The more we can help the students, the more they will succeed academically. We’re looking into helping the child in all areas. I don’t think everyone is aware of the goal to provide a safe education, in all aspects of the word, that prepares students for career, college and post high school training,” Ashton said. In Jordan School District, spokeswom-
an Sandy Riesgraf said there is a health and wellness task force looking at ways to improve the social, physical and mental well-being of schoolchildren. “If kids aren’t taken care of, they can’t learn,” she said. Jordan District added 36 psychologists this year so every elementary has a full-time health and mental professional to match those already in place at the secondary schools. “We’re learning that students may be feeling down, but they don’t know why, or they feel they can’t live up to an image, or deal with peer pressure. We want them to talk about it, work it out, so they feel safe and secure,” Riesgraf said. Teachers also are trained to be aware of mental health and suicide as well as emergency safety, she said. School safety Riesgraf said a $1 million training was approved by the Jordan Board of Education in an effort to best provide students a safe environment. “We work intensely with local law enforcement, meeting weekly with police and finding ways to enhance students’ safety and how best to respond to an emergency,” she said. “We also want our students to know if they ‘see something, say something.’ We don’t want them to be afraid, but to come forward for everyone’s safety.” Ichimura said the training was beneficial. “We know what steps to take and we conduct regular drills from fire to intruder to earthquake so we’re all more familiar with what we should be doing,” he said. Canyons School District sends postcards home, explaining drills so parents are aware of what is being done. And while a number of schools have increased safety in their schools, from using more surveillance cameras and installing security vestibules, Corner Canyon High in Draper invited police to help prepare teachers for an intruder drill. “We had police-fire simulated rounds in different parts of the school, so they would know what it sounded like and practice how they should respond,” Corner Canyon High Principal Darrell Jensen said. “We also had all our faculty become first aid trained, so if there is an emergency, they can respond.” Responsiveness Besides cyberbullying, in-person bullying still occurs in most schools. Last year, teenagers drove by a Viewmont Elementary boy walking to his Murray home, calling him names with racial slurs and hateful remarks. Led by his mother and coach, a large outpouring of support from the community came to his aid with dozens walking him home days later. Former Viewmont Principal Matt Nelson responded, planning to make tolerance part of the school curriculum.
“Together, we can stand up and rally together to show our acceptance and support for our students,” Nelson said. “We talk about intolerance and racism and the need for inclusion. It’s our differences that make us stronger. We need to embrace them.” While that occurred outside of the school, Wright said each incident is a concern that they review. Similarly, McGill addressed alleged racial slurs yelled earlier this year from fans at the Sky View girls soccer team during a game against Alta. After identifying fans who were at the game from photographs, he launched a 40hour to 50-hour inquiry. “We fully investigated the situation,” he said. “I interviewed 25 individuals, 12 parents, both teams and coaches, the referee, and although not one person sustained the comments, we didn’t stop there.” McGill issued an apology to the other team, their coaches and their families. He also had the two teams meet to have lunch together and he has worked with his entire school to focus on sportsmanship. “Many of the girls play club soccer together, so they know one another,” he said. “We’ve watched a USHAA video of what competition should look like at schools and our class officers and SBOs are having open, candid discussions.” Granite’s Cottonwood High School, which has a high population of diversity including refugees, said that if a student says something derogatory, it is addressed immediately. “We have a conversation right on the spot,” said Principal Terri Roylance, who has been an administrator for 10 years. “If the kids don’t understand their remarks, we call the parents in, but 98 percent of them understand after we talk with them.” Although teachers are required to have many trainings and attend professional development workshops, occasionally something slips through the cracks. As was the case with Indian Hills Middle School in Sandy earlier this year when a teacher gave students a survey to get to know them better. Although students’ answers were anonymous, Principal Doug Graham said it made students and parents uncomfortable, and several questions — such as religious beliefs, mental health concerns and sexual preferences — shouldn’t have been asked. “We were honest and open,” Graham said about his handling the situation. “Things happen, but we also need to look at how we handle them. The teacher was trying to get to know her students, but in the process, mistakes were made.” The mistakes — from asking the inappropriate questions to Graham telling her to delete all parts of the survey and its responses — were made public. “I was thinking about shredding the survey
Midvale City Journal
Students at Silver Mesa Elementary participate in anti-bullying classes in 2016. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
and answers when I learned it was all online. Then, I told her to delete it and all the data as well. So, when parents wanted to see the survey, I didn’t have it,” Graham said. “When put in context, it explains why we did what we did, but it doesn’t excuse it.” Graham said last year, when students were helping with a food drive, “students didn’t understand how these realities could affect classmates in their community.” Although the teacher was trying to make a connection with the survey and her heart was in the right place to help the students, Graham said better communication and training will be put in place. “We need to make sure it doesn’t happen again,” he said. “It’s best for our community, to admit to making a mistake, apologize, ask for their understanding and for them to have confidence in us.” Jordan’s Riesgraf said the first step for parents who may have a concern about their student is to contact the school. “Our parents and students are our customers and we want to address their questions and
MidvaleJournal.com
answer their concerns,” she said. “If parents don’t like a particular book in class and don’t want their children reading it, the Book Review Committee has an approved list and they can work with teachers to find an alternative book. If there’s a fight, schools are best to handle it and if need be, the school resource officer, and can help provide intervention and counseling.” Assistance Roylance said that with the diverse Cottonwood High student body, there is a need to provide students with other assistance — food, personal hygiene, clothing and school supplies. “Two years ago, our student body president, Katie Metcalf, saw the need for our students,” she said. “Two parents, Robyn Ivins and Jane Metcalf, now oversee the pantry and if they put out the word that we need tuna, then an ocean of tuna floods our room in two days. Our community is responding to the need of our students.” Roylance said the pantry, fondly called the “cement room,” is open two days per week and an “army of students” get the supplies they need.
“We welcome anyone. I’ve had teachers bring their whole class down. I’ve opened up the door to a family on a special circumstance during spring break to load up with what they need. If someone forgets their lunch or they’re staying for a volleyball game, they can come in and grab food or if they need a notebook for class, it’s here for them,” she said. At Jordan District, distribution of pantry needs may be subtler, especially when the student is concerned about being identified. “We may take and fill a backpack full of food, personal hygiene, bus passes, clothing, whatever we can provide, and others are unaware of that student’s need,” Riesgraf said. “We want to provide the supplies they need. When students are hungry or worried about their next meal, it weighs heavily on them and it’s hard to study.” Pantries are becoming commonplace in many schools, mostly stocked with food or clothing — even at Ridgecrest Elementary in Cottonwood Heights, what is seen as a more affluent community than at Cottonwood. “We deal with the homeless every year,”
Ridgecrest Principal Julie Winfree said. “When I first came here, I didn’t realize it would be part of my job at Ridgecrest, but we work with other schools’ supplies to provide our students in need with food and clothing. There are no boundaries for those in need. Everyone works together to make sure our students get what they need and share with our families in need.” Horsley said in Granite District, the need is present as is the need to provide workshops for students and families on several issues — mental health and suicide, substance abuse, bullying, internet safety, child abuse and college and career ready awareness. “Our goal is to help provide resources and information to our community,” Horsley said. “The world has changed. We have 62 percent of our students in free or reduced lunch and in reality, we have kids go hungry, and oftentimes that translates into behavioral issues. If we can provide the resources, skills and knowledge, we can create a better environment for our students to learn and succeed.” l
November 2018 | Page 9
Hillcrest High’s mock trial program develops students’ life skills By Julie Slama | julie@mycityjournals.com
A
t Alta View Elementary School, Ashley Howell was enrolled in the then accelerated learning program, but admits, “I was kind of quiet and shy.” Howell said it was Midvale Middle School’s mock trial program that helped get her out of her shell and provide her a solid foundation. “Mock trial has helped me develop interpersonal skills, be able to work with others, be able to communicate with others, develop what I want to say, read expressions, develop critical thinking and be able to improvise on the spot,” she said. “Besides, it’s a lot of fun.” Her former middle school adviser, Christiana Forbush, isn’t surprised that now Howell is president of the Hillcrest High School mock trial team as a high school senior. “Ashley has always been a leader and a friend to everyone around her,” she said. “Within a few weeks of her starting mock trial in Midvale Middle School, she showed a knack for having wonderful presentation skills and helping to elevate the other people around her. She is always willing to help other people. During competition, she keeps her cool and is able to think on her feet. She is also a lot of fun.” Mock trial allows students to take roles in presenting and defending a legal case in an actual courtroom in front of real lawyers or judges. Hillcrest students, usually divided into three
NEW CLIENT SPECIAL
ONLY $39 1 hour massage!
BONUS!
INCLUDES: Pain & Fitness Evaluation
CALL TODAY!
801-256-0006
7840 S 700 E • Sandy UT 84070
Page 10 | November 2018
or four teams of about eight students each, prepare cases for both the prosecution and defense as well as witnesses and bailiffs so when they enter the Scott Matheson Courthouse, they are ready for either side they’re told to role play. “Mock trial is a really fun club that often has students who have interest in learning about the judicial system and how it works,” said David Veenstra, Hillcrest club new mock trial adviser. “It really opens up a new world to them and they’re able to understand the news, contracts and legal system better.” While Veenstra said that some students want to pursue the legal field, others are there to make friends and learn skills. “It helps them form arguments, research, sift through arguments and opinions to see points clearly, express themselves, look through bias and learn what is available in public records and what precedents were set in previous court cases,” he said. While Howell is pondering her career options — engineering, biology, law — she said learning public speaking skills from mock trial will help her in any of her future choices. “Before seventh grade and mock trial, I didn’t like speaking in front of people,” she said. “Now, I’ve learned it’s not that bad. I kind of enjoy speaking in front of a large group. I have given a lot of opening statements and that has helped me become confident and know how to present myself and what I want to say.”
At club rush week, Hillcrest High senior Ashley Howell recruits students for the mock trial team. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
Howell said that mock trial differs from debate. “With mock trial, we write the way we speak, so it relates to feelings. It’s not mechanical. It’s helped me to convey what I’m trying to say — and even write in a way that tugs at their heart strings,” she said. “And mock trial translates to every part of my life. With AP (advanced placement English) Language (Composition) class, I’m able to use rhetorical devises to manipulate my point of view. I know what to look for and translate it into what I want to write. Part of mock trial is to keep your table clean and organized, so that has even translated to keeping my school work organized and my room clean.” Veenstra said he looks to the club leaders to guide the younger students. “Ashley is a dominant force for our team. She’s the one out there at club rush, as a senior, recruiting and seeing the vision of the program. She wants the program to succeed with younger students after she graduates. She’s organizing everyone, making sure students understand and are involved, matching them with veteran students to practice,” he said. Howell also is quick to point out that the mock trial’s success is because of the club’s leadership. Joining her as the club student leaders are junior Emily Zhang as vice president, junior Sophia Paradis as lawyer captain and senior Shreya Mahasenan as witness captain. They, and other veteran team members, have been meeting with club members biweekly to help introduce mock trial skills to new students. They know that competition season is ahead. “We’ve been practicing with previous cases, teaching new students how to research,” Howell said. “The court cases may be similar to cases that have actually happened.” Last year’s case was about a boy who
failed to inform a summer camp that he was a diabetic and, as a result, he received severe injuries at camp, she said. “We have to be able to prosecute or defend the case and each lawyer has a different set of questions and a different approach. I’m intense. I go right to the point,” she said. Veenstra said that there will likely be four teams competing for Hillcrest. “Our first goal is to recruit so we have more than our active core of 16 last year,” he said. “Ashley already has recruited about 60 students during club rush, going to classes to speak about mock trial and putting up posters. She knows how to lead students. Our second goal is to win cases. We want to go all the way up to the top state rankings.” Their schedule will be released in November, with their first mock trial case likely in December. Veenstra said that he is looking into meeting up with Howell’s middle school alma mater in early 2019 as a fun practice mock trial competition. The points the team receives at the actual competitions around the state will accumulate, revealing the team’s ranking. With enough points, they may receive an invitation to the regional contest in April, held in Las Vegas. “Sometimes, we can have two trials in a week. We just have to have all our facts ready and know the case,” Howell said. Veenstra doesn’t have to worry about his student leader. “I came into this position and the leadership was already decided,” he said. “The right choice was made for Ashley to lead. In the court room, Ashley is the one who has the best grip of the way the judicial system operates not the way it should. She’s organized, gets everyone involved, steps up to coach others, and embraces it.” l
Midvale City Journal
In The Middle of Everything
CITY NEWSLETTER
City Hall – 7505 South Holden Street • Midvale, UT 84047 MIDVALE CITY DIRECTORY City Hall Finance/Utilities Court City Attorney’s Office City Recorder/Human Resources Community Development Public Works Ace Disposal/Recycling City Museum Midvale Senior Center SL County Animal Services Midvale Precinct UPD Police Dispatch Unified Fire Authority Fire Dispatch Communications
801-567-7200 801-567-7200 801-255-4234 801-567-7250 801-567-7228 801-567-7211 801-567-7235 801-363-9995 801-569-8040 385-468-3350 385-468-7387 385-468-9350 801-743-7000 801-743-7200 801-840-4000 801-567-7230
MIDVALE CITY ELECTED OFFICIALS MAYOR Robert Hale Email: Rhale@midvale.com
801-567-7204
CITY COUNCIL District 1 - Quinn Sperry Email: qsperry@midvale.com District 2 - Paul Glover Email: pglover@midvale.com District 3 - Paul Hunt Email: phunt@midvale.com District 4 - Bryant Brown Email: bbrown@midvale.com District 5 - Dustin Gettel Email: dgettel@midvale.com
WHO TO CALL FOR… Water Bills Ordering A New Trash Can Reserving the Bowery Permits GRAMA requests Court Paying For Traffic School Business Licensing Property Questions Cemetery Water Line Breaks Planning and Zoning Building Inspections Code Enforcement North of 7200 S Code Enforcement South of 7200 S Graffiti
801-567-7200 801-567-7202 801-567-7202 801-567-7212 801-567-7207 801-255-4234 801-567-7202 801-567-7213 801-567-7246 801-567-7235 801-256-2575 801-567-7231 801-567-7208 801-256-2537 801-256-2541 385-468-9769
EMERGENCY OR DISASTER CONTACT Public Works Fire Dispatch – Unified Fire Authority Midvale Police Precinct or Police Dispatch Unified Police Department EMERGENCY
801-567-7235 801-840-4000 801-468-9350 801-743-7000
911
The Heart of the Matter
NOVEMBER 2018
By Mayor Robert Hale
VOTE – VOTE – VOTE How fast a year goes by! One year ago, November 2017, we were anxiously awaiting the municipal election results for two City Council seats and for Mayor. I look out the window as I write this and remember the many faces and places I visited requesting the votes of our participatory citizens. This November 6, another cycle of voting will determine several other elections, questions, and initiatives. Ultimately, we determine our own government decisions by how we vote each November. This year is no different. Government by the people will always be the most forthright and most acceptable form, but it requires participation by the people at the voting box; and by volunteering to add your voice to others in standing committees, commissions and elected offices. There are five City Council Districts in our City. Each has several citizens serving in various positions. You, each of you, are needed now and in the future to keep the City moving in a very centrist direction! Contact City Hall or one of our fine Councilmembers or me to offer your time and talents to make our City better. A TRIBUTE TO OUR PUBLIC SERVANTS When I go to bed each night, I don’t always remember that there are men and women who are not asleep. They are on alert or are out on the street to protect you and me and your home and your business in the event of destructive forces of fire, criminal activity, or unforeseen breakdown in the infrastructures that support our homes and businesses. As Mayor, I have worked very, very closely with the organizations that support the Unified Police Department, the Unified Fire Authority, and our City Public Works. I assure you that there are no finer individuals in the State of Utah than these who serve while you sleep (or work the night shift at your employment). From time to time, you will hear through the media of an isolated incident involving someone or something in Midvale. Know
this – these teams are 100% committed to protecting you with the best tools and techniques available. When you see a patrol car or a fire truck returning from a service call, wave at them. Let them know of your appreciation. And when you see a white truck with the Midvale City logo on its doors with employees inside that are working on a broken water main, putting up Christmas street decorations or checking under sewer manhole covers, give them a thumbsup, a high-five, a friendly wave of gratitude. They love your respect! HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL We are the most blessed of cities! When you look around and see neighbors raking leaves of the widow or disabled, perhaps putting a flower bed away for its impending dormancy during the winter months, or when snow is brushed off a neighbor’s car windshield, shoveled or plowed from sidewalks and drives, you know there are people who care for one another. Let’s make these the actions all will remember and be thankful for here in Midvale.
Unified Police Department Sergeant receives Incentive Award Unified Police Department Sergeant Luis Lovato received the honorable Incentive Award from Sheriff Rosie Rivera. The Incentive Award is awarded for service above and beyond the call of duty. On August 23, Sergeant Lovato was off-duty and on his way to his son’s football game. He was stopped in traffic near 9000 S and Hidden Peak Drive when he observed a motorcycle crash. He recognized the severity of the crash and immediately summoned medical assistance. Sergeant Lovato responded to the driver of the motorcycle and saw that his leg was severely injured with almost a full amputation due to the crash. The victim was bleeding profusely due to his injury. Sergeant Lovato updated responding medical personnel and applied a tourniquet to the victim’s leg while providing assurances that he’d be alright. The victim survived his injury due to Sergeant Lovato’s quick thinking and action. He should be commended for his actions.
In The Middle of Everything
WWW . MIDVALECITY . ORG Jordan Bluffs Redevelopment Project Celebrated
On October 22, Midvale City, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Utah Department of Environmental Quality, KC Gardner Company, Wasatch Group, and Midvale City Redevelopment Agency celebrated the Jordan Bluffs Redevelopment Project, a former EPA Superfund site. Superfund redevelopment helped Midvale City reclaim Bingham Junction and reuse 351 acres of formerly contaminated land. About 75 guests attended the celebration, which was held at the Jordan Bluffs Redevelopment site to recognize the federal, state and local agencies that have spent more than 30 years on the project. As well as the community investors for their commitment. Speakers included: Midvale City – Mayor Robert Hale EPA, Region 8 - Betsy Smidinger, Assistant Regional Administrator EPA Headquarters - Melissa Friedland, National Program Manager for Superfund Redev. Utah Department of Environmental Quality - Alan Matheson, UDEQ Executive Director KC Gardner Company - Christian Gardner, Chief Executive Officer Wasatch Group – Dell Loy Hansen, Founder and Chief Executive Officer
Veterans Day Ceremony and Free Pancake Breakfast
Join us as we honor America’s veterans and their families for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to sacrifice to protect the freedoms we hold so dearly. Midvale City will host a Veterans Day Ceremony on Saturday, November 10. The day will start with a free pancake breakfast at 9:30 a.m. at the Midvale Senior Center (7550 S Main Street). Prepared by the Midvale State Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the breakfast will include pancakes, eggs, ham, orange juice and coffee. The ceremony will begin at 10:45 a.m. at the Midvale City Hall courtyard (7505 S Holden Street). The ceremony will include the prelude and posting of colors by the Unified Fire Authority Honor Guard and Pipes and Drum Corp, anecdotal speakers, and recognition of veterans according to the various military branches served. For more information, please contact Laura Magness, Communications Specialist, at 801-567-7230.
Midvale City officials have worked for more than 30 years to reclaim and redevelop these sites. We are grateful to the EPA, Utah DEQ, KC Gardner Company, and Wasatch Group for their collaboration on these redevelopment projects to transform these sites back into productive use for the community. “It took years of determination and environmental action to achieve a remedy which today protects both the environment and people,” stated Betsy Smidinger. “It’s really important to us through this program to get land back into use and redevelop it, but at the same time human health and the environment are still protected.” “Ten years ago, we at the Gardner Company had a vision of transforming a 200-acre Superfund site into one of the state’s best mixed-use developments. Having successfully completed the first phase, we are excited for the opportunity to work with EPA, UDEQ, Midvale City, and Wasatch Group on the second phase of this project,” said Christian Gardner, Chief Executive Officer, KC Gardner Company. “This next 250-acre phase, will continue the same standard of excellence, innovative design and environmental stewardship that we implemented in the first phase. Our mission is to successfully transform a Superfund site into a major economic driver creating high-paying jobs and housing opportunities for the residents of Salt Lake County.” Bingham Junction and Jordan Bluffs are heralded as national examples of how the local, state and federal government can work together to transform formerly contaminated Superfund sites back into productive use for the local community. To learn more about the progress of the Jordan Bluffs Redevelopment project, visit www.MidvaleCity.org. If you have questions about the project contact Laura Magness, Communications Specialist, at Lmagness@midvale.com or 801-567-7230.
NOVEMBER 2018 CITY NEWSLETTER WWW . MIDVALECITY . ORG
Community Council
By Andrew Stoddard, Chair
In October we had a great presentation on Proposition 2. As a Council, we have tried to get information out to residents of Midvale about the candidates and issues that are on the ballots. By now all of you who are getting mail in ballots should have received them, and we urge you to do your civic duty and make an informed vote. We also urge you to come join us at our next meeting on November 7 at 7:00 p.m. at Midvale City Hall. If you have any questions about joining the council, you can contact me, Andrew Stoddard, at drewcstoddard@gmail.com.
Understanding your Midvale Utility Bill The monthly utility bill you receive from the City is for several different utilities. Depending on your address, you may be billed for all or some of the following services: • Water (Base Fee and Usage Fee) - some addresses receive water service from Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District or METRO o The Base Fee is for your meter and connection to the system. Rates throughout the City vary based upon the Service Area you live in and the size of your water meter. Except for annual increases/decreases to the Base Fee, this cost will stay the same from month to month. o The Usage Fee is based upon how much water your meter registers for the month. It is determined by multiplying the units of water you consume (each unit = 1,000 gallons) by the usage rate for your Service Area. Peak rates are in effect from June through September. Off-peak rates are in effect from October through May. • Sewer Charge - Some addresses receive sewer service from Sandy Suburban, Midvalley, or Cottonwood Improvement Districts o Includes a Base Fee for your connection to the system plus a Per Unit Fee based upon your water usage, which will not exceed your average winter water usage. The average winter water usage is used as a limit since most of that water is used indoors and ends up in the sewer system. The measurement period used to calculate your average winter water consumption is November through March. The average is recalculated each year and adjusted in July, the beginning of the fiscal year. Once set each July, if your water usage is at or above the winter average, you will be billed the winter average. If your water usage is less than the winter average, you will be billed based on your water usage. This winter average will stay the same for one year. • Garbage - Midvale provides garbage service to all single-family residences (no commercial) o Garbage and recycling are included in the monthly rate of $11.73. Additional garbage cans are $8.75 per month. There is no charge for additional recycle cans. • Storm Water Charge - Midvale provides storm water maintenance to addresses o Pays for storm water system maintenance throughout the city. o The residential rate is $8/month. o The commercial rate is based upon square footage of covered surfaces (parking lots, driveways, etc.) • Street Lighting Charge – Midvale provides street lighting maintenance for all addresses o Pays for the street lights throughout the city. o The residential rate is $3 per month. o The commercial rate is $9 per month. • Utopia – Midvale bills addresses that have signed up with UTOPIA for fiber-optic service o Your monthly fee depends upon the contract you signed with UTOPIA. Please call us at 801-567-7200 if you have questions regarding your utility bill.
HOWL-o-ween on Main Street
Even dogs had their day celebrating Halloween in Midvale City. On October 24, the City hosted the HOWL-o-ween on Main Street event. People dressed their furry friends in all kinds of costumes for the Halloweeen PAWty and trotted down Main Street to trick or treat (doggie treats) at participating businesses. The furry friends stopped by the Doggie Photo Booth for a #DogSelfie and Mayor Hale handed out the following awards: Clowning-Around Award Contest Winners pictured with Mayor Hale: Bella (funniest), for the funniest costume, Paws-itively Toffee (cutest) and Sullivan (Best human/dog combo) Pup-tastic Award for the cutest costume, the Top Dog Award for the best owner and dog costume combo. Follow us on Facebook @ MidvaleCity and @MidvaleMainStreet to learn about future Main Street events.
In The Middle of Everything Good and Bad Holiday Foods for the Fur-Kids Fall is in the air, and the holidays are around the corner. Here’s a few quick tips on what to keep out of your pet’s mouth. Those tasty, fatty, rich foods from the holidays can cause some serious upset tummies, or even worse, a visit to the emergency vet. AVOID: • Candy: Chocolate contains a substance, theobromine, that can be toxic to pets. Dark, semi-sweet, and Baker’s chocolate can be lethal to pets if ingested. • Drippings: Those fatty leftovers from your meal can cause vomiting and diarrhea. • NO BONES: Do not give your pet bones from leftover holiday birds, they can splinter once ingested and cause internal injuries, even death. • Stuffing, pudding, relish, pickles, sauces, and anything with onions, grapes, raisins. Your pet can eat some holiday foods in moderation: sweet potatoes, white potatoes, pumpkin (before adding fatty things like cream), cranberries, chard, kale, green beans, and a wee bite of turkey, ham, or other meats. If you have additional questions, please consult with your veterinarian.
WWW . MIDVALECITY . ORG Winter Parking
As we head into winter, Midvale City would like to remind residents about parking regulations to ensure plowing operations run smoothly and efficiently throughout the community. Residents are encouraged to avoid parking on the street during winter months so that snow plow crews can safely clear the streets during storms. Midvale Municipal Code makes it unlawful to park a motor vehicle on any City street longer than three minutes when loading or unloading passengers and 30 minutes when loading, unloading or delivering property from November 1 through March 1 between 1:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Please help us out by not parking on the streets as it will allow unobstructed access for our snow plow drivers.
Winter Fire Safety Tips
UPCOMING EVENTS November 16-17: MEOW-VEMBER Cat Adoption Event Find your PURR-FECT friend at Salt Lake County Animal Services during MEOW-VEMBER! All day Friday and Saturday, we will have staff stationed in the cattery area to help you find the perfect kitty for YOU! While supplies last, we will be giving away goody bags with food, treats, blankets, and toys! It’s pick your price adoption fees for our cats and kittens which means you can adopt a kitty for as little as $1! November 27: Giving Tuesday Are you a cat person or a dog person? This year during Giving Tuesday, we’re having a contest to see who gets more votes, CATS or DOGS. Money raised from this event will go into our Injured Animal Fund at Salt Lake County Animal Services. How can you participate? We’ll have staff set-up at Tinkers Cat Cafe (302 E 900 S) and Bjorns Brew (2165 S State St) from 10 AM - 2 PM taking monetary or in-kind donations, then we’ll take the party to RoHa Brewing Project (30 Kensington Ave) from 5 PM - 8 PM. Visit AdoptUtahPets.org for more information or visit our online donation page and enter “cats” or “dogs” in the comment section when you make your donation. Questions? Email animal@slco.org.
Winter storms can happen almost anywhere. They can cause us problems. Know what to do before, during and after a storm. This will help keep you and your family safe from a winter fire. • Test all smoke alarms. Do this at least once a month. This way you will know they are working. Install carbon monoxide alarms in your home. Test the alarms. • Plan two ways out of the home in case of an emergency. Clear driveway and front walk of ice and snow. This will provide easy access to your home. • Make sure your house number can be seen from the street. If you need help, firefighters will be able to find you. • Be ready in case the power goes out. Have flashlights on hand. Also have battery powered lighting and fresh batteries. Never use candles. • Stay aware of winter weather. Listen to the television or radio for updates. Watch for bulletins online. • Check on neighbors. Check on others who may need help. • Generators should be used outdoors. Keep them away from windows and doors. Do not run a generator inside your garage, even if the door is open. • Stay away from downed wires. Report any downed wires to authorities. • Be ready if the heat stops working. Use extra layers of clothes and blankets to stay warm. If you use an emergency heat source, keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away. • Turn portable heaters off when you leave the room. Turn them off when you go to bed.
Midvale Middle School students explore Shakespeare’s words in ‘Much Ado About Will’ By Julie Slama | julie@mycityjournals.com
T
his month, about 40 Midvale Middle School students will immerse themselves in the world of Shakespeare as they perform “Much Ado About Will.” The play, which features parts from several of William Shakespeare’s plays, including “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “The Tempest,” “Macbeth,” “Twelfth Night,” and “Romeo and Juliet,” will take place at 6 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 8. The family-friendly production is free to the community. “‘Much Ado About Will’ is a celebration of the words of Shakespeare,” said Bethanne Lenhart, Midvale Middle theatre teacher and play director. “It introduces the audience to a variety of Shakespeare’s most famous and notable works. Through the play’s narration, the audience will learn about different devises such as play-within-a-play, mistaken identity and letters that give a wonderful twist and enjoyable plot lines.” The show was cast from seventh- and eighth-grade students from the Play Production and Tech Theater classes. “I picked ‘Much Ado About Will’ to help introduce my students to a variety of Shakespeare. This play was appealing because it gives variety that allowed me to cast each student in an ideal role that will feature them and their strengths as an actor. Each student gets a chance to hold center stage and have their mo-
ment to really capture the audience,” she said. Students also worked together to create their own blocking, which Lenhart oversaw. “I’m really proud of what the students came up with. They applied all the previous lessons … to come up with some effective and creative, yet natural staging,” she said. Lenhart believes that middle school students prosper from studying Shakespeare. “Shakespeare seems intimidating at first, but once students get a feel for the language they learn to love it. I’ve seen some of the strongest characterization and committed performances come from students who find Shakespeare thrilling to perform. His characters are iconic, but lend themselves to the craftsmanship of an actor who learned to make strong and entertaining performance choices,” she said. Rehearsals started in mid-September, after Lenhart provided introductory lessons to Shakespeare and the students auditioned for parts. “I love watching them get caught up in a scene and drop into their character the way they do with Shakespeare,” she said. She estimates students have dedicated 30 hours of rehearsal time as well as additional time students spend on memorization or practicing on their own time. “I am proud to see their growth in performance as a teacher and excited to see the final
Midvale Middle School students will perform “Much Ado About Will” this month in the school’s auditorium. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
product,” she said. “Lastly, the stories of ‘Romeo and Juliet,’ ‘As You Like It’ and ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ are just plain fun to play.” Midvale Middle School also will have a March production, “The Little Prince.” “‘The Little Prince’ was selected to explore
the fantasy and fairytale genre. It will be a great contrast to last year’s productions of the Greek tragedy, ‘Antigone,’ and ‘Shuddersome Tales of Poe,’” she said. “I hope to send students to high school with a well-rounded experience of performance in a variety of genres.” l
20 safety tips for trick-or-treaters
Y
ou’re never too old to trick-or-treat (unless you are 35 and going by yourself, then yes, you are too old to trick-or-treat). But being safe knows no age limits, especially on a night when most people are wearing disguises. While it’s time to get your costume and candy bag ready, preparation of another kind is required for kid and adult alike. Here are some tips to stay safe this Halloween. 1. Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult. 2. Costume accessories such as swords and knives should be short, soft and flexible. 3. Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before eating them. And as difficult as it may be, limit the amount of treats you eat. 4. Beware the homemade treats made by strangers. Better to eat only factory-wrapped treats. 5. Walk from house to house, don’t run. Doing so with a flashlight will help you see and others to see you. 6. Test makeup in a small area before applying. Then remove it before sleeping to prevent possible skin or eye irritation. 7. Look both ways before crossing the street. Do we even need to say this one? 8. Only visit well-lit houses. 9. Do not enter a home without a trusted adult. 10. Never accept rides from strangers. Strang-
MidvaleJournal.com
er danger is a real thing. 11. By not wearing decorative contact lenses, you lower the risk for serious eye injury. 12. Wear well-fitted costumes, masks and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips, falls and relentless mockery from your peers. 13. Drive extra safely on Halloween. Popular trick-or-treating hours are 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. so be especially alert during those hours. Slow down in residential neighborhoods. We all know how excited kids can be. Enter and exit driveways slowly and carefully. 14. Remind children to watch for cars turning or backing up and to not dart into the street or between parked cars. 15. Put your electronic devices down as you walk around. 16. Keep costumes bright, or add reflective tape, to ensure kids are easier to spot. 17. Be careful next to candles or Jack-o’-lanterns. 18. Keep an eye for allergies. If someone has serious allergies or food sensitivities, read any unfamiliar labels before handing over the candy. 19. Brush your teeth. Candy is sticky and cavities will scare you. 20. You can maximize your candy intake by planning your route. Stick to places you are familiar with so you can also circle back around to Halloween headquarters. l
November 2018 | Page 15
Hillcrest women’s soccer team dominates in region play, shares region title By Bob Bedore | bob@mycityjournals.com
T
here’s an old adage that it’s not how you start that’s important, it’s how you finish. And for the girls and women of Hillcrest High School’s soccer team, that finish has been spectacular. After starting the season 0-3-1 and scoring only two goals (while giving up 14), the Huskies entered region play and earned a 7-1 record and filling the net 34 times and giving up only seven. Quite the turnaround. “We just got tired of losing,” proclaimed senior and team co-captain Anna Wright. “We just all got together and said that we’d had enough and that we had been playing our own individual games. It was time to play like the team we knew we were.” And with that the Huskies went out and dismantled the region. Their only loss came to Hunter, and they later avenged that loss. Both Hillcrest and Hunter ended at 7-1 in region with their only losses coming to each other. The Huskies’ season ended with 1-0 loss to Northridge Hillcrest High senior Rachel Workman fends off Kearns High players in the first round of the state tourna- during the Huskies overtime win. (Julie Slama/City Journals) ment. Though only one team ends the the-scenes stuff that makes a team function,” year on a winning note, this qualifies as a great year for the team and the bonding that Peery said. “Basically, I couldn’t be doing my has happened is apparent in everything they do, best work without such a great husband/coach but each player will point to their new coach as on the staff.” Even her daughters have become a reguthe real linchpin to the team’s success. “Coach Peery has been an amazing coach lar fixture at the practices and games. “It is a and she has a deep connection with each of us,” family-oriented program. Personally, the parSenior and co-captain Tammie Tan said. “She ents and players have been so accepting of my wants and knows what is best for us, even when family. Both of my daughters love ‘the soccer we don’t.” Tammie went on to add, “For me girls’ and look up to them. I am glad that my personally, she has been one of my greatest role daughters have strong female role models in models. She has helped me tremendously both their lives at such a young age. We have a great group of young women in our soccer program in and out of soccer.” Coach Kyra Peery — KP to her team — and I am proud of them.” There have been some great moments for had been an assistant coach for the last few years before accepting the head coach posi- the team this year, but Peery likes to put the Setion in January of this year. Her passion for the nior Night as one of the biggest. “We came off of our best week of practices game has infused the team and each member and got the result the girls worked so hard for. has rallied around her. “My entire coaching staff has the welfare A win for the seniors and for the team was 100 of our players at the forefront of their minds,” percent deserved with their efforts the week Peery said. “We would like them to graduate previously in practice. It was rewarding for our from Hillcrest women’s soccer with a good coaching staff as well to see the players so hapwork ethic, confidence, and respect for others. py with the result.” The team had some great senior leadership, All of these can be taught with soccer and we but the play of the entire team has been strong hope each player finds a way to apply these and that bodes well for next year’s squad. Juqualities as they grow.” Many of the players on the team spoke niors Annyka Schershlight and Morgan Miller about a feeling of “family” for this team, but for have had an amazing year and look to be strong KP it takes on a bigger meaning. Her husband, leaders next year as well. And with the legacy Brock (a teacher at Hillcrest and former college that is being set forth by KP and her “family” of athletes, the women’s soccer team of Hillcrest football player), also coaches the team. “He works so hard with the girls on their High School should be a factor in Utah for a strength and conditioning and all the behind- long time. l
Page 16 | November 2018
Midvale City Journal
MidvaleJournal.com
November 2018 | Page 17
Utah mayors sign agreement to work on idle free initiatives By Heather Lawrence | heather.lawrence@mycityjournals.com
“
It’s so very important for our citizens to understand the impact of idling on their children,” said Diane Turner, Council Chair of Murray. Murray and other cities were recognized Sept. 18 for idle free initiatives at the 11th annual Idle Free Governor’s Declaration event. Also showcased was the winner from this year’s student poster contest. Eight Utah cities were recognized by the governor’s office at an event held at the City and County Building in Salt Lake City. Seventy-one Utah cities have committed to put idle free practices into effect. The eight cities recognized for their clean air efforts were Alta, Cottonwood Heights, Holladay, Logan, Murray, Park City, Salt Lake City and Sandy. The event also highlighted a poster contest for students in the Cache Valley area. The contest, sponsored by Professors Roslynn Brain McCann and Ed Stafford of Utah State University, who encouraged students to make posters with idle free and clean air themes. This year’s poster contest garnered 550 entries. “The contest engages students who are just learning to drive, so it’s a great opportunity for education. We gave those who participated
Page 18 | November 2018
a post evaluation, and all of them reported improved understanding of idle free practices,” said Roslynn McCann. The contest also gave them an outlet to practice marketing skills. Entries came from art, business and environmental science classes. Brain McCann hopes the contest will be available to more school districts in the future and urges schools to reach out to her at roslynn.mccann@usu.edu if they want more information. Other speakers at the event included Salt Lake Mayor Jackie Biskupski, Dr. Laura Nelson of the Governor’s Energy Office, Thom Carter of UCAIR, Representative Patrice Arent of the Bi-Partisan Utah Clean Air Caucus, Steve Bergstrom of Intermountain Healthcare and Brain McCann. Intermountain Healthcare’s representative said that they have 750 fleet vehicles which do 12 million miles annually. “Idling is costly because idling equals zero miles per gallon,” Bergstrom said. With improved monitoring and education, some numbers have improved. “Where home care was idling their vehicles a total of 120 hours per month, now they are down to 45 hours per month. We see the effects
of poor air quality every day in the patients we treat, and would rather not have to be treating the results of bad air,” said Bergstrom. Mayors who were recognized were quick to give their constituents the credit for clean air efforts. “I think the idle free ordinance sends a message that every individual has a part to play and it can’t just be someone else’s problem. You can be a part of the solution. For example, we have a mom here in the Holladay area, Crystal Bruner Harris, who has started idle free events at schools,” said Mayor Rob Dahle. (See Holladay Journal’s article on Crystal Bruner Harris titled, “Clean Air Crusader.”) Murray Mayor D. Blair Camp agreed. “We have a very tenacious council member Diane Turner who made a promise when she was running for council that she would push through an ordinance on idle free. She has really raised the awareness of other council members and the community. That’s what it’s really all about — awareness,” said Camp. The mayors also put emphasis on children as the leaders for this issue. “The real impetus for us came from our residents. They ap-
proached us. We had several groups of young students come to city council meetings and say to us, ‘Hey, this is what we want to see happen.’ That’s why we jumped on board,” said Mayor Mike Peterson of Cottonwood Heights. The mayors agreed that when you educate kids they will enforce it with their parents. This concept was demonstrated in a winning poster from 2015 by then Logan High student Hailey Dennis. On a blue background, there is a single image of a child in a bold pose. The caption reads, “My mom idles less than your mom!” Representative Arent’s comments echoed this idea. “We want to make idling as socially unacceptable as throwing litter out the car window. Education has always been a big part of what we are working on. This whole effort is about education and teaching the public about idling: why it’s not good for their health, their pocketbook, or their car,” Arent said. “The air we breathe is not Republican air, it’s not Democratic air. It’s everyone’s air.” The past winners of the contest can be seen online at cleanaircontest.usu.edu/past-winners/. l
Midvale City Journal
What’s the issue? Previewing November’s ballot By Cassie Goff | cassie@mycityjournals.com
E
xcited to get that “I voted” sticker? Utah’s 2018 General Election is underway. If you have received your ballot in the mail, make sure it is postmarked by Nov. 6 (but the sooner the better). Polling stations will be available on Nov. 6 as well (check your county’s website for locations). Before you head to that secluded booth or color within the lines on the mail-in ballot, make sure you know what you’re voting for. In addition to the local elections for U.S. Senate, U.S. Representative, county council seats, school boards, sheriff, auditor, clerk, recorder, district attorney and various judges, there are three propositions, three constitutional amendments and one opinion question that are receiving much public attention. Proposition 2 involves legalizing medical marijuana. If passed, Utah’s current law regarding medical cannabis would be expanded. Private facilities would be allowed to grow, process, test and sell medical marijuana, with regulation. Individuals with certain medical conditions or illness would be allowed to acquire, use and possibly grow medical cannabis. Supporters of this proposition argue that medical cannabis can help end suffering from cancer, seizure and other life-threating conditions. Organizations in support of this proposition include the Utah Patients Coalition, Libertas Institute, Marijuana Policy Project and Together for Responsible Use and Cannabis
Education (TRUCE) Utah, among others. Opponents to this proposition worry about the effect it may have on children and families, and argue that it may pave the way for the recreational use of cannabis. Organizations in opposition include the Utah Medical Association, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, DARE Utah and the Utah Narcotics Officers Association, among others. A special legislative session is planned for a medical cannabis bill regardless of the Prop 2 vote. Seen as a potential compromise, the bill could either replace Prop 2 if passed, if voted down, the bill is still on the table, according to legislators. Proposition 3 involves raising sales tax to support Medicaid for low-income adults. The sales tax rate would be increased from 4.70 percent to 4.85 percent. The additional funding coming from this tax increase would expand coverage of Medicaid based on income. The proposition specifically relates to the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Supporters of this proposition argue that the benefits of Medicaid should be available to all the citizens of Utah, and there is potential to bring health care coverage to thousands of Utahans who need it. Supporters of this proposition include AARP Utah, Voices for Utah Children, YMCA of Utah, Utah Health Policy Project and many others. Opponents to this proposition worry about
If you’re reading this, so are your customers.
Melissa Worthen
13 community newspapers serving 15 cities for over 27 years.
801-336-4138
Print and digital ad opportunities
Account Executive
Melissa@mycityjournals.com
Real and trackable results.
WE’RE YOUR COMMUNITY CONNECTION.
MidvaleJournal.com
With so many things on the ballot for this general election, make sure you know what you’re voting for. (Cassie Goff/ City Journals)
the potential burden to the state budget and the sustainability of the proposition. Opponents to this proposition include Governor Gary Herbert and Representative Edward Redd, along with many other legislators. Proposition 4 is concerned with re-districting for the House of Representatives, Senate and State Board of Education. If this proposition passes, a seven-member commission called the Utah Independent Restricting Commission would be created. District boundaries would need to be drawn by the state legislature and approved (or vetoed) by the governor. This would need to be completed during the legislative general session after the next federal decennial census in 2020. The anticipated effects would include minimizing the division of counties, cities and towns, preserving traditional neighborhoods and communities, and minimizing boundary agreement among different types of districts. Constitutional Amendment A regards a property tax exemption for active military personal. Currently, military personal are eligible for a property tax exemption if they serve 200 days within a calendar year. This amendment would allow that person to qualify for the tax exemption if they serve 200 consecutive days in one 365-day period, regardless of the calendar year. Constitutional Amendment B would create a property tax exemption for property that a state or local government leases from a private owner. Supporters of this amendment argue that it would be a cost-saving opportunity for government bodies. Opponents argue that it would reward a select few at the expense of others. Constitutional Amendment C would allow the legislature to meet beyond their scheduled
45-day annual general session. It would allow the president of the Utah Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representative to convene a special session that would not be able to last more than 10 days, or go over budget. The non-binding opinion asks if the state should increase the state motor and special fuel tax rates by 10 cents per gallon to fund public education and local roads. This specific tax is regularly referred to as the gas tax. While this question is “non-binding,” that may be a little misleading. Voter opinion results from this question will be gauged by legislators to help guide them with a bill regarding the gas tax during the next legislative session. Supporters of this initiative argue that schools need additional funding for tools that would help the schools go beyond the basic level. Supporters include the Utah League of Cities and Towns and Our Schools Now, among others. Opponents of this initiative argue that Utah citizens do not need another tax increase. Opponents include the Americans for Prosperity and the Utah Taxpayer Protection Alliance, among others. For more information on what’s on the ballot for this election, please visit the Salt Lake Tribune, Elections.utah.gov, and/or Ballotpedia.org. If you are not yet registered to vote (and obviously didn’t take Taylor Swift’s advice), please register by visiting Utah.gov. Remember to be informed about local government and stay involved. l
November 2018 | Page 19
Professional carvers sculpt pumpkins into art By Amy Green | a.green@mycityjournals.com
P
rofessional pumpkin carvers have been busy at the Utah State Fairpark (155 N. 1000 West) during Pumpkin Nights, showing how pumpkin sculpting is done. Tickets to see these carvers in action are available for the event until Nov. 4. Just beyond the ticket entrance, one can walk by the current projects of an artist sculpting massive gourds. It’s a great beginning, before heading through a visually stimulating, pumpkin-themed park. Ashlen Clark is an artist who contributes to the sculpting and groundwork that goes into Pumpkin Nights. “We start planning everything in February—that’s when we start carving (synthetic) pumpkins. We do the event in four cities: Auburn (California), Denver, LA, and here in Salt Lake City. There are over 3,000 pumpkins in each city. In addition to that, is our bigger sculptures. We start with the little stuff, then move into the bigger sculptures like our giant squid and nine foot jack-o’-lantern,” Clark said. She offered tips for anyone planning to carve pumpkins, to help make things go smoothly. “Have an idea of what you want and draw it out first. A lot of it is just putting personality into it, and having lots of fun,” she encouraged. Guests can come to Pumpkin Nights and see up close details of how a carving artist works. Upon inspection, people will notice that pumpkins are not sculpted using just a paring
knife or a vegetable peeler. On real pumpkins, artists use special clay tools that, well, resemble a vegetable peeler. But the tools are different than regular kitchen gadgets, spectators are told. Pumpkin Nights is a good place to ask an artist about what tools he or she uses and how to use them. Nine-year-old Rorey from Sandy visited Pumpkin Nights and was among many children who stopped to observe, ask questions and react over the carving demo. “It’s very satisfying to watch,” Rorey said. One of the artists giving a live demonstration was Adam Smith who patiently answered kids’ questions about creating the intricate and massive pumpkin sculptures. “I’ve been sculpting pumpkins like this, the 3D stuff, for about six years—carving professionally for 10. I got into pumpkin carving, and that influenced me going into different mediums like clay and wood,” Smith said. He described how pumpkin sculpting is unique. “With clay, you build up and you add things to it whereas pumpkins, it’s like wood or a marble carving, where you take it away,” Smith explained. More of Smith’s art can be seen on the Facebook page, The Pumpkin Smith - Pumpkin Carver. Watching a pumpkin artist is a unique opportunity and an alternative to suspense-laden haunted houses. It’s festive without the hor-
ror of a jumpy attraction. People seem to love watching an everyday pumpkin evolve into whimsical shapes. It is also a bonus for younger children, as there is no intense scary stuff. Anyone can look on, unafraid, while an artist peels away layers of pumpkin (that luckily don’t bleed or scream). It is an experience that might spark a “like
a kid again” feeling for adults. One might crave to have a relaxing night at home, sitting down and getting “artistic”... or just elbow deep in messy, slimy, stringy (yet wonderfully quiet) vegetable guts. For more information, go to pumpkinnights.com/salt-lake-city. l
Kids watch Adam Smith, a professional carver, create sculptures at Pumpkin Nights. (Amy Green/City Journals)
Adam Smith, a professional carver, creates sculptures at Pumpkin Nights. (Amy Green/City Journals)
Page 20 | November 2018
Midvale City Journal
Hillcrest High soccer seniors leave their mark both on and off field By Bob Bedore | bob@mycityjournals.com
L
eadership is a key ingredient for any team. It can often be the difference in rising above all expectations or failing to meet your potential. For the girls soccer team at Hillcrest High School, the leadership can be found in an amazing trio of seniors—Anna Wright, Eden Watson-Bucci and Tammie Tan. They took a moment with the Midvale Journal to talk about this season and thoughts of the future. “It has truly been an honor to have an impact on so many girls,” Tan, one of HHS’s captains, said. “When I was a freshman, I really looked up to my seniors. Now that it’s my turn, I have the responsibility of setting the example. I want to show these girls how to have fun when playing.” For Wright, another captain, it was about legacy. “We wanted to build on the years we’ve had here at Hillcrest, and leave knowing that next year’s team will have an even stronger foundation for them to build on.” And the foundation is looking strong. Coach Kyra Peery and the Huskies posted a 7-1 record in region play, including a hard-fought revenge win over Hunter (their only loss in region). And strong juniors are ready to take over in 2019. “We really wanted to push ourselves,” said Watson-Bucci. “We had a rough start to the season and we all had to rise up and say that we aren’t going to play like this anymore. We became a team and you could really see what a team united can do. It was really great.” The unity and never-give-up attitude was evident in the second Hunter game—a back and forth battle between two determined teams. Watson-Bucci had been harassed constantly by a Hunter player that finally drew a foul. She also gave back, perhaps a little too much, and was forced to the bench. Wright was given the penalty kick and pounded a perfect arch of a shot that scooted in just inches above the goalkeeper’s hands and below the top bar for the only goal of the night. “That was my favorite moment of this season,” Wright said. For Eden, a favorite moment came during the Kearns match with the team down 2-0 at halftime. “In the locker room I just remember saying that we’re not going to lose. I was tired of losing.” The Huskies scored three goals in the second half to win the game and the team was ready to roll. But with all the great moments in the season, none of these seniors are looking forward to it ending. Being together at practice nearly every day has made them
MidvaleJournal.com
POSTPONE YOUR HEADSTONE
Dont Text & Drive
Hillcrest High captain and senior Tammie Tan, seen here in the game against Pleasant Grove, helped lead the Huskies to a region co-championship and number 1 seed for region 2 in the state play-offs. (Julie Slama/City Journals)
all a family. With the season over and other things drawing them away, all three admit that it’s going to be a little tough. But all three have their plans set. Watson-Bucci, the fireplug on the team who brings her passion to every game (and everything she does) and uses her adrenaline to constantly increase the speed of play, plans to keep playing soccer in college. She has been making connections and putting together video. And true to form, she has no thought of slowing down. “I am always pushing myself,” she said. “No matter what level I get to, I know that I can always do better and I’m going to keep pushing.” Watson-Bucci looks to put her passion into art and design away from the field, but definitely wants to look into coaching as well. “I love helping my little brother’s team as a coach. It’s really fun to know I’m teaching them skills and seeing them use them.” Wright, the gifted athlete who stays calm and focused, is excited to get to her “other life” as a river guide in Wyoming. “I’m so proud of what we’ve done as a team. This has been an amazing year, but
it’s really been four years as a member of this team that I’ll remember.” She was especially thrilled to see her coach from her freshman year. “It was amazing to see him and show him how far I’ve come.” Wright plans to go into pediatric medicine in college. Tan, who is also a student body officer at Hillcrest, has her future as laser focused as she does on the field. She already plans to attend the University of Utah and study sports medicine. Looking back at this last year with the team is full of great memories. “Being able to play with this team and seeing how much fun we have connecting with each other has been incredible. I have loved seeing my girls grow and players and individuals, and I wish them the best of luck after I have been long gone.” All have nothing but praise for first year head coach Peery. Quickly becoming more than just a coach to these girls, “KP” has helped them all create a bond that will live long after the final whistle blows on the season. And next year’s crop of seniors will have some big shoes to fill in 2019. l
Nearly 330,000 injuries occur each year from accidents caused by texting while driving. 1 out of every 4 car accidents in the United States is caused by texting and driving. PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
Helping Families Heal for Over 130 years
LarkinMortuary.com November 2018 | Page 21
Voting like it’s Black Friday ’Tis the month for voting. Utah’s 2018 General Election will take place on Nov. 6. Make sure to get your mail-in ballot post-marked by then or visit a polling station. If you’re not registered yet, don’t worry! You can register day-of at specific polling stations. I’ve been thinking a lot about voting recently with all the hype around this election. What does voting really mean? What do you really do when you color within the lines of your chosen bubbles? The conclusion I have come to is — voting is how I show support. There are a handful of propositions and amendments on this general election ballot. If I have an affirmative vote on a proposition, I am showing support. It’s in the name at that point. I’m a supporter of that proposition. The same goes for the candidates I vote for during elections. If I vote for a certain person, I am showing support for them. I’ve also been thinking a lot about the value of a dollar recently. What does the value of a price tag mean? When I hand my dollar bills or plastic card to the clerk, there’s more to that transaction than just the physical transfer of material. I am showing my support for that product, and/or company. In many of the “shop local” campaigns, a common slogan is “support local businesses.” That’s been reinforcing my idea. By shopping local, I am supporting local. Since both voting and spending money are ways of showing support, I’m starting to view dollar bills as a vote. I’d like to use a syllogism here. Spending money is showing support. Voting is showing support. Therefore, spending money is voting. With every dollar I spend, it’s another vote for the company I’m buying that product from. I’m effectively telling
by
CASSIE GOFF
that business, “Yes, I like your stuff, keep doing what you’re doing, I support you.” And that’s been really powerful for me. With the gift-giving season quickly approaching, I’ve been starting to exercise my vote a bit differently. There are only a few more weeks until shopping becomes a competitive sport. For Black Friday, I’ve usually scouted out stores like Target, Walmart, and Kohl’s. But this year, I’m starting to look for more local deals. Even though some local shops won’t be open as early or as late as some of the bigger corporations, I’m still going to make an effort to shop local for Black Friday. I’m especially considering where to show my support for Cyber Monday. Black Friday crowds are slowly becoming obsolete; because let’s be real, who
would rather go battle crowds of rowdy shoppers when the moon’s out, instead of finding the same, or even better deals through a screen from the comfort of home? Not a lot. Usually, Amazon is the hot spot for Cyber Monday deals. With some of the concerning reports in the news recently, claiming bad work conditions and general disregard for employees, I’m seriously considering withdrawing my support and changing my vote. Instead, I’ll be on the lookout for small business deals through other websites. One of my favorite websites to shop for gifts is Etsy. There are so many small independent artists selling their work. There’s also really cool stuff that’s hard to find anywhere else. I’d much rather vote for the Independent than the Dictator, money down. l
Readers like you keep us printing!
20% OFF
Now is the time to elevate your career.
Be part of YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS by donating to City Journals today!
with purchase of two entrees.
Coupon must be present. Expires 11/30/18
(801) 944 0505 • 3176 East 6200 South Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121
WLI’s new Career Development Series is perfect for committed mid to upperlevel employees ready to move up.
January 2019 - August 2019 Once a month, 11am - 2pm ORDER ONLINE:
daylightutah.com
15%Expiresoff purchase November 30, 2018 – MADE FRESH DAILY –
5471 S. State Street Murray, UT 84107
801-904-2318
Page 22 | November 2018
• Join like-minded women and learn career skills from highly qualified experts. • Gain insight from several of Utah’s leading companies. • Graduate with a digital portfolio to add to your resume.
Applications are now accepted.
LEARN MORE AND APPLY: www.WLIUT.com/CDS
Name:
Phone:
Address: City:
State:
One Time Donation: $
Monthly Donation: $
Credit Card Number:
Zip:
Ex Date:
Send to City Journals at 9500 South 500 West Suite 205 | Sandy, Utah | 84070 For security reasons, if you would rather contact City Journals directly, call (385)557-1010 or email accounting@mycityjournals.com
WE’RE YOUR COMMUNITY CONNECTION.
Midvale City Journal
Life and Laughter—Table Talk
Life
Laughter AND
by
PERI KINDER
Midvale
T
hanksgiving is a day of stress, even in the best of times, but Thanksgiving 2018 could take the cake. . . er . . pie. Dinner conversations have become landmines. Relationships are as strained as my jeans after five helpings of mashed potatoes. Families haven’t been this divided since the great Toilet Paper Orientation debate of 1954. Here are just a few topics that could escalate your meal from a civil discussion to Grandpa throwing cranberry sauce into the ceiling fan: The national anthem--Kneeling v. standing; The Presidency--Trump v. a sane person; Women’s rights v. Rich White Men; Nazis v. Not Nazis; and the most contentious subject, Marvel v. DC. Things are ugly, folks. People are tense. There are marches and demonstrations covering every perceivable issue. Even asking someone their view on mayonnaise could spark a worldwide protest. So, what can we possibly talk about around the Thanksgiving table so we can still get presents on Christmas? I gathered a group of unsuspecting family members to practice possible discussion topics. It didn’t go well. Me to Grandson: Tell me about
Fortnite. Great Uncle Jack: What’s Fortnite? Grandson: It’s an awesome video game! Great Uncle Jack: That’s stupid, you namby-pamby! Do you know what my video game was? World War II! So, I tried again. Me: Elon Musk plans to take humans to the moon in 2023. Second Cousin: The moon landing never happened. It’s a conspiracy to keep us docile. Me: I don’t think it’s working. Another effort. Me: How about those sports? Hubbie: Agents have ruined professional sports! Back in the day, athletes played the damn game. Now, it’s, “Oh, I need an extra $20 million before I can throw a pitch.” Okay then. Next. Me: What fun things should we do for Christmas? Brother-in-law: We should stop pandering to the commercialism of a pagan holiday that has no foundation of truth. Might as well celebrate rocks. I tried a different tactic. Me: A delicious roast turkey sure sounds good. Daughter: Do you know how
PROFESSIONALS
Value
PLACE AN AD: Call
HANDYMAN SERVICES
CONCRETE WORK
Flat work, Driveways, Patios, RV Pads, Sidwalks, Etc.
Call Dan:
801.518.7365
Hearing Aids
Hearing Help Express FDA-Registered Hearing Aids. 100% Risk-Free! 45-Day Home Trial. Comfort Fit. Crisp Clear Sound. If you decide to keep it, PAY ONLY $299 per aid. FREE Shipping. Call Hearing Help Express 1- 855-701-7349
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS INSTALL & REMOVAL Your lights or ours Licensed and Insured
801-244-3542 FREE ESTIMATES
MidvaleJournal.com
ENERGY CORE CONSTRUCTION
A PLUS GARAGE DOORS
Service Available 24/7 Certified Experts 100% Warrantied
801-260-2030
AIR DUCT CLEANING 10 Vents * 1 Return * 1 Main
Only $49
25 YEARS EXPERIENCE
Lic No.7466520-5500
Reasonable Prices, Quality Work, Prompt Service
801-254-5974
GARAGE DOORS
basements . bathrooms . electrical repair . painting cabinet installation . plumbing . sheetrock repair countertop refinish and replace
– HOURLY RATE - 2 Hour Minimum –
Call Leo Coleman 801-471-6775
Safe Tubs
Safe Step Walk-In Tub
#1 Selling Walk-in Tub in North America. BBB Accredited. Arthritis Foundation Commendation. Therapeutic Jets. MicroSoothe Air Therapy System Less than 4 Inch Step-In. Wide Door. Anti-Slip Floors. American Made. Call 844-476-9737 for up to $1500 Off.
Debt Relief National Debt Relief Have 10K in Debt? National Debt Relief is rated A-Plus with the BBB. You could be debt free in 24-48 months. Call 1-888-601-7028 now for a free debt evaluation.
Additional vents priced separately
TheApexCleanAir.com 801-618-4649
YARD SERVICES
Affordable Yard Care / Tree Trimming & Removal Flower Beds, Hedges, Railroad Ties, Mulching, Sod, Mowing, Concrete Senior Discounts
Call Dan:
turkeys are raised? It’s disgusting and inhuman. Me: Turkeys aren’t human. Daughter: You are dead to me. I was almost out of ideas. Me: What do you think about sweater vests? Everyone: We hate them! Well, that’s a start. I’m worried most families will end up sitting quietly, heads down, creating volcanoes with the mashed potatoes and gravy, and making NO eye contact for the entirety of the meal. At least dessert shouldn’t be contentious. (Dessert: Hold my beer.) There was a time when conversation was an art, a civilized form of
DENTAL INSURANCE
FENCING
DENTAL INSURANCE. Call Physicians Mutual Insurance Company for details. NOT just a discount plan, REAL coverage for 350 procedures. 855-385-6690
20+ Years Experience Licensed and Insured All types of Fencing Installs and Repairs
or http://www.dental50plus.com/225 Ad# 6118
Bath & Kitchen Resurfacing CHOICE RESURFACING
Quality resurfacing for your bathtub, shower and countertop since 2002. Call for Free Estimate! 801-295-1101 www.choiceresurfacing.com TREE SERVICES
INTERMOUNTAIN TREE EXPERTS
Removals . Trimming . Pruning Licensed and Insured / 15 Yrs Experience
801-518-7365
801-244-3542
ROOFING
CONCRETE SERVICE
801-449-9875
All types of roofs
$650 OFF any reroof over 2,000 sq. ft.
speech. Someone started talking, then others respectfully chimed in with their opinions. Sometimes, discussions got heated, but it rarely became a knife fight. Or maybe I’ve just read too many Jane Austen novels where you had to actually pay attention to realize you’d been insulted. Now everyone is insulted. All the time. So. On Thanksgiving, let’s practice not being insulted. Let’s try hearing other people’s views without writing them out of the will. We don’t have to agree, but can we be kind? And the correct answer is Marvel. It’s always Marvel. l
FREE ESTIMATES
Concrete Pouring & Flatwork, Epoxy, Acid Stain, Repair, Curbing
Free Estimates. Easy Scheduling. Call/Text
(385)309-2872 www.utahsurfacesolutions.com
AJ Fencing
Free Estimates
801.471.9688
VEHICLES WANTED
Gumby’s Auto Parts We’ll buy your non-running, wrecked or broken car, truck or van.
(801) 506-6098
“It’s worth your time to call!” FLAT ROOF SPECIALISTS
OLYMPUS ROOFING
801.887.7663 SERVING WASATCH FRONT SINCE 1973
Windows and Doors
Ace Windows and Doors 14 Years Experience, Licensed & Insured Free Estimates Senior Discounts Saturday Install Available
Call Lee 801-214-4532
November 2018 | Page 23
Join our donor family today! NEW DONORS
BRING THIS COUPON IN FOR A
$20 BONUS on your first donation Coupon good for the GRIFOLS Biomat in Sandy. Expires 11/30/2018
GRIFOLS Biomat in Sandy 727 East 9400 South Sandy, UT 84094 (801) 566-2534
The proteins found in plasma that are extracted and purified into life-saving treatments are unique to the human body. These proteins can’t be synthetically created or replicated in a lab. There continues to be a need for committed plasma donors to help treat our patients and that’s why your donations are so important.
www.grifolsplasma.com
Hours of operation for Monday –Friday: 6:00am – 6:30pm Saturday 8:00am – 3:30pm | Sunday: Closed