August 2020 | Vol. 02 Iss. 08
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TWO FRIENDS FROM MILLCREEK
PRODUCE FACE SHIELDS FOR HOSPITALS AND OTHERS IN NEED By Kathryn Elizabeth Jones | k.jones@mycityjournals.com
W
hen Nick Arbanas and JP Thomas became friends in the fifth grade, they had no clue that one day they would be producing face shields during the COVID-19 pandemic. Still, when the warning bell rang, Arbanas and Thomas figured they could pitch in and do their part. Both engineers and graduates from the University of Utah, they had the skills and the 3D printer and industrial cutter to “provide a solution to everyone who needed it,” Arbanas said. Three years ago, Arbanas and Thomas started DroidForge (droidforge.com), an online business that specializes in custom 3D printing, laser cut and CNC parts. Arbanas’ mother, who has worked as a nurse for 30 years at the University of Utah Hospital, took in the mocked-up prototype they made (instructions were obtained from print files offered at blog.prusaprinters.org/) and showed her friends. They loved it. When the University ended up making their own shields (for legal reasons) there were many other hospitals and individuals in need of the shields, and the two friends were eager to get the orders out. “It was about a 50/50 split between individuals and hospitals,” Arbanas said, speaking of just three months ago when the orders were coming in heavy. “People would fill out the order form on our website and come and pick them up or have them shipped to their address.” “People from the Moran Eye Center came over to my house and picked up their order three times,” Arbanas said. Abbie Arbanas, Nick’s sister, works on face shields. (Photo courtesy Nick Arbanas) The Center’s outreach included Tahiti, Nepal and the Navajo Nation. Continued page 3
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Continued from front page Shipments of the face masks traveled in multiple Utah locations as well, to a hospital in Idaho, and to hospitals as far away as Georgia, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Nebraska and Tennessee. “We used up 60 rolls of CD filament which translates to printing roughly 15 miles of filament for this project and a total print time of over 2,000 hours,” Arbanas said. Through GoFundMe, Arbanas and Thomas raised enough money to produce and donate 1,700 face shields. Still, there were struggles to be had. Sourcing the materials, for one. Their first run of 550, obtained from Austin, Texas, was a one-time deal. When the friends contacted the company a second time, they were informed they’d “run out.” “I contacted every plastic distributor I could find,” Arbanas said after the sobering news. “We finally found someone in China to help us out, but we paid an arm and a leg for shipping.” As for labor, Arbanas and Thomas did most of it. Occasionally their siblings volunteered, but most of the work was done by them. When a PPE (Personal Protection Equipment) group contacted them from Salt Lake, the two were thrilled. “While we could cut a few shields at a time, they could cut 15 at a time, and that was really nice. We just picked up the cut
CELEBRATING
face shields and brought them home.” It took on average 11 assembly hours to make eight face shields, and “though the 3D printers didn’t have to sleep, we did,” Arbanas said. Both friends work full-time jobs and the shield work took most of their evenings. “Many people have thanked us for the high quality. We’ve received a lot of really good feedback,” Thomas said. Currently, the two friends have only materials left to build about 200 shields. They said it is hard to predict what the PPE situation will look like in the future and that requests from hospitals and others have declined since they first started shipping C O V I D - 1 9C O UP VD I DA-T1 E 9 SU P D C OCVO ID VDP IA D V -I 1D9- C 1U 9OPU DT-A1ET9SE U S these at the beginning of April. COVID-1C 9 OUVPID DA - 1T9E SU P D C O V I D - 1 9 U P D AT E S Though the two friends are not currently working on face shields “sourcing materials is a real challenge right now, and the lead times are around three to four weeks,” said Arbanas. Both said they will be “keeping a close eye on the PPE situation as winter approaches.” Since the COVID-19 Since outbreak COVID-19 began, outbreak Grifols began, has Grifols made its hasexpertise made itsinexpertise plasma available in plasma toavailable the to FDA, the U.S. FDA, Since thethe COVID-19 outbreak began, Grifols has made its expertise in plasma toU.S. the Since the COVID-19 Since theoutbreak COVID-19 began, outbreak Grifols began, has made Grifols itshas expertise made its inexpertise plasma available in available plasma to available the U.S.U.S. FDA, toFDA, the U.S. FDA, “There may be a second spike in COVID BARDA and BARDA NIH/NIAID and NIH/NIAID to develop to clinical develop trials clinical to assess trials the to assess safety and the safety efficacy and of efficacy a potential of a treatment. potential treatment. Since the COVID-19 Since the COVID-19 outbreak began, outbreak Grifols began, has Grifols made has its expertise made its in expertise plasma in available plasma to available the U.S. to FDA, U.S. FDA, BARDA and NIH/NIAID to develop clinical trials to assess the safety and efficacy of a potential treatment. Since the COVID-19 outbreakclinical began, Grifols made itssafety expertise plasma available toof the U.S.the FDA, BARDA andBARDA NIH/NIAID and to NIH/NIAID develop to develop trials clinical to has assess trials the to assess and thein efficacy safety and of aefficacy potential treatment. a potential treatmen cases,” Arbanas said. “If a need arises, we AtBARDA Grifols, we At Grifols, believe we thisNIH/NIAID believe current this and current extraordinary and extraordinary situation situation companies require companies to of strive more toof strive than more ever to than to and BARDA NIH/NIAID and to develop to clinical develop trials clinical toextraordinary assess trials the torequire assess safety the and safety efficacy and efficacy aof potential astrive treatment. potential treatment. At Grifols, we believe thisto current and extraordinary situation require companies to strive more than ever toever BARDA and NIH/NIAID develop clinical trials to assess the safety and efficacy a more potential treatment. At Grifols, we At believe Grifols, this we believe current this and current extraordinary and situation require situation companies require to companies strive to than ever more to than ever will be ready to make more shields for the serve patients serve and patients communities. and communities. At Grifols, At we Grifols, believe we this believe current this and current extraordinary and extraordinary situation require situation companies require companies to strive more to strive than more ever to than ever to serve patients and communities. At Grifols, we believe this currentserve and extraordinary situation require companies to strive more than ever to patients serve andpatients communities. and communities. people that need them most.” l serve patients serveand patients communities. and communities.
HOW HOW CONVALESCENT CONVALESCENT PLASMA PLASMA HOW HOW CONVALESCENT CONVALESCENT PLASMA PLASMA HOW CONVALESCENT PLASMA HOW HOW CONVALESCENT CONVALESCENT PLASMA PLASMA HOW CONVALESCENT PLASMA HELPS HELPS TREAT TREAT COVID-19 COVID-19 HELPS TREAT COVID-19 HELPS HELPS TREAT TREAT COVID-19 COVID-19 HELPS HELPS TREAT TREAT COVID-19 COVID-19 HELPS TREAT COVID-19
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August 2020 | Page 3
Sending students back to school safely and smartly By Katy Whittingham | k.whittingham@mycityjournals.com
Xavier M., an 11-year-old, going into fifth grade at Whittier Elementary videoconferencing with his class this past school year. (Katy Whittingham/City Journals)
I
n a July 14 Granite School District board meeting, the Utah State Board of Education Reopening Plan Assurances were approved. The assurances are meant to provide a framework that schools in the District can use to develop their own plans including a USTB template for reopening requirements. Ann Kane, principal at Mill Creek Elementary, said that their school current plan as of July 20 is for students to return to the classroom or remote learning five days a week. “Parents have been asked to commit to one modality or the other by Aug. 6,” she said. “They have a choice.” According to USTB guidelines, they are asked to commit for one quarter. While many parents and caretakers feel having more say and flexibility depending
Journals
on their individual concerns and situations are benefits, the choice is not easy. Although requirements including facial coverings, increased hand washing, and social distancing may be what many are accustomed to at this point, it’s hard to imagine exactly how such requirements will transfer to a classroom setting, especially for young students. The USBE assurances consider seven safety characteristics of a setting in what is referred to as “Risk Mitigation.” The characteristics are movement, duration, proximity, group size, respiratory output, touch and congestion. They also consider different school settings like classrooms, cafeterias, playgrounds, restrooms and transition spaces, such as hallways. Principal Kane said there are currently
A child looks at “Classroom Essentials” at a Sandy Walmart. (Katy Whittingham/City Journals)
three schedules that they can follow based on the direction of the District and the Salt Lake County Health Department. Kane said they include, “A regular schedule in which students are either all online or all in the classroom five days per week. Teachers, in this plan, will either teach face to face or online.” If directed she went on to say that they will follow a modified schedule that means students will attend in school either Monday/ Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday and be online the other three days. Finally, she said that if determined they will “go on a dismissal which means all students and all teachers are online five days per week.” Xavier M., an 11-year-old, going into fifth grade at Whittier Elementary, expressed his ideal scenario for going back to school.
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He said he would like to have “three days of home school and two days in school,” but hoped they could “mix up the kids regularly, like every month, so we see all of our friends.” He said the hardest part of home schooling last year was not seeing his friends, but the best parts were sleeping in and having a shorter school day. Kane has high hopes that they can get through the confusion and stress of this situation and “find our positive school pride.” She noted a literacy night event they had two weeks prior to closing schools in March as an example providing “that feeling of enjoyment, of positivity, of happiness in learning, of togetherness.” She also hopes that they can continue to grow their volunteers, even if it’s virtually. “That is a powerful program we have. I don’t want to lose it,” she said. Xavier has his hopes, but also his concerns. “I worry that teachers or kids will get COVID. I worry about wearing a mask for the whole day, but I will do it, so I won’t get sick, or get other people sick. I worry about the playground being closed. I worry that I won’t get to see my friends as much,” he said. Kane echoed many of these sentiments. “My concerns are for the community—can we stay healthy? Can we learn and grow? Can we get through this year and not be so far behind next year? Teachers, staff, students, families—I worry about their health, their well-being, their ability to stay strong for the entire year,” she said. Most district and school plans and updates can be found on school websites. The USBE Reopening Plan Assurances and the Reopening Requirements Template for the Granite School District can be found on the Granite School District page graniteschools. org. l
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Skyline alumna wins Mrs. Utah title and uses platform to fight human trafficking By Heather Lawrence | h.lawrence@myityjournals.com said.
“This pageant is so community service based. There’s so much more to it than dressing up and parading around stage in a swimsuit,” said Mrs. Utah winner Paris Morris of Salt Lake. (Veronica Benson Photography)
P
aris Morris, who was crowned Mrs. Utah America July 11, knows that people have preconceived notions of what a pageant is like. She had them herself as a teen, before her mom encouraged her to enter the Miss Teen Utah competition. “My mom was the one who got me started. She wanted me to get out of my shell and develop some interview and people skills. She said I had to do it once, just for the growing experience. So, I did it, and I fell in love with it,” Morris said. Morris’s mother, Cherie Fisher knew about pageants. She had won the Mrs. Utah America pageant title in 2002. Morris learned a lot from her mother’s win. “When she won, I remember how happy she made people when she volunteered, with me right by her side. Now I can’t wait to serve our state with my own 14-month-old daughter Lottie by my side,” Morris said. For Morris, it’s fitting that her child should be a part of her time as Mrs. Utah.
“The most important part of this pageant is your platform, the cause you want to bring attention to during your year as Mrs. Utah. And mine is to fight human trafficking, especially of children,” Morris said. Morris teamed up with Operation Underground Railroad, a nonprofit with offices in California and Cedar City. OUR works with governments all over the world to rescue victims and arrest human traffickers. “Before I entered the pageant, I watched a documentary, ‘Operation Toussaint’ about an OUR rescue in Haiti. It was so good, but so hard to watch. I saw one of their missions and how they rescue children,” Morris said. OUR lists statistics of missions on their website, and another thing that made an impact on Morris was the number 58. “That’s how many victims have been rescued this year in Utah. Trafficking happens everywhere, even here in our state. So, I wanted to use my platform to volunteer, fundraise and bring attention to their organization,” Morris
The pageant was held at an outdoor venue in Ogden and the audience was limited by COVID-19 restrictions. The event started at her daughter’s bedtime, so Morris and her husband William left Lottie with her grandparents, who watched on the live stream. “My parents knew how important the on-stage question portion was—it’s 50% of your total score. There is evening gown and swimsuit and a costume portion, too. I won the on-stage question (interview) and evening gown portion. When I talked to my parents they told me they were so emotional after that because they knew I would win. “It was actually really beautiful to compete outdoors, looking at the mountains. I’ve done these for several years; I won Miss Teen Utah in 2007 and competed for Miss Utah for four years before I got married,” Morris said. Morris loved that after she got married, there was still a way for her to compete. She enjoyed the pageant’s focus on service and meeting the other contestants. “This pageant is so community service based. There’s so much more to it than dressing up and parading around stage in a swimsuit. It was great to meet other women, hear what they’re passionate about and how they’re trying to make our state a better place,” Morris said. She also likes the diversity. “It’s more about being healthy than skinny. It’s about being the best you are for your body type. There are diverse body shapes, including plus size and curvy. The judges care more about what you’re going to do with your year than if you wear size zero,” Morris said. Morris, who attended Churchill Jr. High and graduated from Skyline in 2010, is eager to represent Utah in the October competition. Each state winner will compete in Las Vegas in October for the Mrs. America title. That winner will go to Sri Lanka in November to compete for the Mrs. World title. As Mrs. Utah America, Morris has organized her first fundraiser through Burg Pediatric Dentistry, where she works part time.
“July 30 is a worldwide Day Against Human Trafficking. All our profits that day from all our offices will be donated to OUR. People can also donate online on their website. My goal is to raise $50,000 which will rescue 20 children,” Morris said. Morris said the pageant is a way that she takes time for herself and things that are important to her, even at this busy stage in her life. “As a married woman and mother you’re still able to celebrate yourself and maximize your potential. It’s easy as a mom to get lost in taking care of everyone else’s needs. But you have these little eyes watching you, and you have to take care of yourself. You have to live your dreams,” Morris said. l
“As a woman, you need to celebrate yourself. It’s so easy, especially when you’re a mom, to get lost in everyone else’s needs,” said Mrs. Utah winner Paris Morris of Salt Lake. (Photo by Mia Fisher)
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August 2020 | Page 5
Google Fiber is coming to Millcreek, what does it mean for you? By Kirk Bradford | k.bradford@mycityjournals.com
M
illcreek City Council announced Google Fiber will be expanding to Millcreek on July 13 as the newest location to receive their services. The website read, “While we love all of our Fiber locations equally, Utah has always been special to us. Provo was one of the earliest Google Fiber cities — there, we built great relationships grounded in the city’s vision to connect an entire community to high-speed internet. “That experience led us north to Salt Lake City, where we’ve been building, in the more traditional sense, a from-scratch fiber network to deliver gigabit internet to homes
Google Fiber’s storefront at Trolley Square. (File photo courtesy Google Fiber)
and businesses across Utah’s capital city. “As we finally near completion of construction in Salt Lake City, we’re not ready to stop growing in Utah. So, we’re excited to announce that we’ll continue to build our network into the neighboring city of Millcreek.” Millcreek Mayor Jeff Silvestrini and the Millcreek City Council approved a license agreement giving Google Fiber access to rights of way to begin construction in the city later this year. After meeting with the council, Google officials said, “We’re excited to work with the city of Millcreek under the leadership of
Mayor Silvestrini to bring fast, reliable giga- broadband internet service that debuted back bit internet to residents in this first expansion in 2010. Explaining the new service as, “fiber-to-the-premises” service that delivers high-speed connectivity to businesses and individuals in select cities. At the time it appeared Google planned a massive roll out across the entire country but in 2016 they hit the brakes nationwide. They didn’t announce plans for further expansion beyond its 18 cities already set up. Google made a statement to Business Insider DEN TAL saying, “We do not have anything to share on expanding beyond our current markets at this time. We are currently, focused on providing a great customer service experience for cus1345 E. 3900 S. Suite #116 tomers in the areas where we are available.” Salt Lake City, UT 84124 Neither Millcreek nor Google Fiber released the details on its pricing for Mill801-285-0721 creek residents but their website states home www.legacydental.com
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along the Wasatch Front. The approval vote allows us to continue the project into Millcreek without delay, with the goal of serving our first Millcreek customers in early 2021.” Millcreek will be the third city in Utah to receive Google Fiber. “We’re pleased by Google’s dedication to advance digital equity within Millcreek,” Silvestrini said in city press release. “Residents of Millcreek that have not had adequate access to the internet in the past will soon benefit from fast, reliable broadband internet through Google Fiber.” Google Fiber is a fiber optic-based
connections with 1 gigabit transfer rates per second typically cost $70 per month. Many residents took to social media to vent because many are already served by several other internet providers like Comcast, CenturyLink and others who renewed many residents current accounts for yearly contracts. Resident Brian Prince said, “I’ve been on their notification list for about three years. I got tired of waiting and just renewed my contract with Comcast for another year...Figures.”
What Does Google Fiber Offer?
Google Fibers service consists of three techs pitches their website. “Gigabit internet, streaming television and a phone. No hidden fees. Just a straightforward price: $70/month.” The national average for internet access is about 11.5 Mbps, according to multiple tech websites. Google Fiber also says their top speed is 1,000 Mbps or 1 gigabyte per second at the highest tier of service. This makes their service potentially 10x faster than cable’s average download speeds, and 86x faster than the average upload speed their website shows. Like most broadband internet services, Google Fiber is a shared network, which means that the speed you can achieve depends upon how much data your neighbors are using at the same time. But because Google Fiber is built to support 1000 Mbps, the bandwidth is so high that it’s unlikely any individual customer’s bandwidth would be affected by other customers. The cost of the service did vary by region, but most Google Fiber customers can, “expect to pay about $50/month for 100 Mbps service and $70/month for 1000 Mbps. Google Fiber also includes an option for cable television, which adds about $90/month to the basic plan. In all cases, the pricing is all-inclusive and billed month-to-month, with no annual service contracts, fees for rental equipment, or monthly data caps.” The service also allows you to have advanced home automation. Connect your home together from your smart doorbell, a smart fridge, smart TVs, tablets, cameras, monitors, smart thermometer, smart security devices, a voice-activated light system, and much more. With a gig, it allows much more space for your internet. The service provides a streaming video without the cable box and phone service similar to having a landline without the actual “land” part. This is made possible through their internet. The privacy controls can turn voicemails into emails and texts, you can record and save all your calls or you can even forward calls to any of your devices. For more information, you can visit google fibers main website and see all the other options and services coming to Millcreek. l
Millcreek City Journal
Domestic Violence Unit Officer Brittni Willie apprehends man suspected of stalking after domestic violence event By Kirk Bradford | k.bradford@mycityjournals.com
W
hile victims of domestic violence can often not receive the necessary help before it ends in tragedy. In Millcreek recently, this was not the case. After a violent incident between a man and woman, charges were filed and the man convicted. Preceding that conviction, the man has now been charged with “stalking” his victim after a Millcreek Precinct Officer Brittni Willie dedicated hours to grasp the situation and respond. Charging documents show the man allegedly created fake social media accounts and left fake voicemails alluding there could be pending criminal charges she would face unless she engaged in couples therapy with the suspect. Charging documents also show the man went as far as creating a fictious Unified Police Department phone number based on an expired UPD number. According to the Utah Domestic Violence Coalition, from 2000 until 2020, 42% of adult homicide cases were domestic violence related and 88% involve male suspects. The UDVC also states that on average, 80 children witness the murder or attempted murder of their mother. UPD Millcreek Police Chief Steve DeBry praised Willie for the work she does on their domestic violence unit. “For Det. Brittni Willie’s honorable actions, and tremendous
investigation, she has been chosen for Officer of the Month.” Mayor Silvestrini commended her work saying, “Officer Willie, you just do so many things right. The city council and I really appreciate all the work you do for our DV Unit.” Chief Debry read the award citation of the incident: “The male showed up at the female’s residence to gather belongings. There was an encounter between the two and the male was sprayed with pepper spray by the female. The initial officer investigated, obtained video of him being sprayed, and believed he was the potential victim in this case. “Willie promptly conducted follow up and interviewed the male. He indicated he was over at the residence with peaceful intentions and was sprayed by pepper spray for no reason. Willie tried several times to speak with the female but was initially unsuccessful. Willie remained persistent in her attempts and did interview the female. Willie learned and later proved the following: “After the male’s interview with Det. Willie, he sent a falsified voicemail to the female. He posed as an officer. He changed his phone number to an out of service UPD phone number, he told her she was going to be charged, and would be facing significant jail
time or couples counseling in lieu of jail. He set up two fake Facebook accounts, four fake Instagram accounts and contacted her current boyfriend. In his messages to her boyfriend, he again made false accusations regarding charges she was facing. He contacted the initial officer in the case and indicated he had been meeting with the District Attorney over this case. This also proved to be false. “The female informed Det. Willie of a previous incident between them which occurred in a northern Utah city. During this incident he attacked her, hit her, threatened her with a knife, and destroyed her phone. He was convicted for this attack. The female indicated this horrific incident left her distraught, damaged and in near permanent fear. She began carrying pepper spray after this assault. She indicated on the night she pepper sprayed him, she encountered him in her apartment hallway and told him to leave and believed he did so. Scared, she went to leave the complex and encountered him alone in a parking garage. He refused to leave. In fear, alone, and trapped she utilized her pepper spray. At the time of her initial report, her fear was crippling, and she was unable to provide all details. “Det. Willie tirelessly worked this case with compassion, tenacity, and resolve. Det. Willie was a true professional and ally for the
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Domestic Violence Unit Officer Brittni Willie poses with Millcreek City Council, Chief Steve Debry and supporters after being awarded Officer of the Month in Millcreek. (Kirk Bradford/City Journals)
female victim. What initially appeared to be one thing, was completely proven to be the opposite. True and accurate justice was served as a direct result of Det. Willie’s efforts. Several weeks after this case was resolved and the male was charged, Det. Willie received an unsolicited email from the victim. The following is a direct quote from the email. ‘I am sure you know, that he is being charged with stalking. While the situation itself is unfortunate, I cannot stress enough how GRATEFUL I am for you. I still have PTSD dreams about him hurting me and having nobody to call for help, but when I wake up, I remember that I do have help and that you’ve literally saved my life in so many ways. Because of you I have control over my life again, I have freedom, and I have peace.’” l
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What’s your legacy?
A daughter’s wish helps create a cupcake company By Kathryn Elizabeth Jones | k.jones@thecityjournals.com
One of the most popular cupcakes, the So Banana Cream Pie cupcake, was created by Natalie’s husband, Kevin Jensen. (Photo courtesy Natalie Jensen)
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atalie Jensen, owner and cupcake creator at So Cupcake in Millcreek, believes in using her life to make something good. And delicious. “I never thought I’d own a bakery or make cupcakes for a living,” she said. But her daughter’s wish changed that. Jensen’s daughter, Celina, now 21, and living with cerebral palsy, baked with her mother for years. “Emeril Lagasse used to have a show on the Cooking Channel, and Celina’s wish was to go to New York City and meet him. Her wish was granted through the Make-AWish Foundation, and she loved it. We ate cupcakes, and that trip totally changed me,” Natalie said. “I used to make cupcakes from a box at the grocery store,” Natalie said. “And then my sister-in-law asked me to do a cake for her birthday. It got me to thinking that we needed to do something with Celina and cupcakes to boost her self-esteem.” “Even today she is recognized for it,” Natalie said. “Though we started from nothing, (Natalie recalls starting the business in her home kitchen) people remember my daughter and know her still.” Celina’s story is on the wall of So Cupcake, and the small store is filled with many cupcake flavors to thrill the eye and palate. Cupcakes are made fresh daily, and many cupcakes are filled with pudding. “We have 60 flavors currently, though we don’t do them all every day. And we are still creating new flavors,” Natalie said. Natalie’s husband, Kevin Jensen, created the So Banana Cream Pie cupcake with graham crackers, one of the most popular cupcake flavors. So Maple Bacon has been a hit too, along with So Double-stuffed Oreo, So Strawberry Shortcake and So Strawberry Cheesecake.
“I have a good understanding of what’s yummy,” Natalie said, speaking of her lack of formal experience when it comes to baking. She was a social worker first for three years, and before that worked in The Children’s Center in their preschool department. “I guess you could say I love working with kids. I like to watch their faces. How they laugh at things,” she said. Though things have changed a bit since COVID-19, So Cupcake has managed to stay open, continuing their connection with children and their parents through to-go orders, curbside pickup, and free delivery within a 10-mile radius, as well as in-store orders. “There’s a special feeling at So Cupcake,” Natalie said. “This store is in Celina’s honor. She grew up in this store.” While the typical tea parties, which her 11-year-old daughter Cosette helps with, were put on hold for a few weeks, they have been up and running since the end of May. “Sure, we have to be careful,” Natalie said, “but we are doing an extra level of clean.” So Cupcake’s hour-long tea parties include a story time, activities, “tea,” and an activity bag to take home. “But now, everyone has their own tray. They work great and keep everyone’s stuff separate.” Though the last tea party was small, Natalie is preparing for the time when more children will feel like they can come by providing picnic tables allowing for more space between children. “It’s all right to be careful,” she said. “Some people want to stay home, and we’re doing the best we can during this interesting moment.” So Cupcake has a play area for children. There are not as many toys set out as usual, in order to keep things in control, but every toy that is out is sanitized. For those who choose to stay home and take in the sweets, every Wednesday at 2 p.m. Natalie reads a story on her Facebook page, So Cupcake. And she is providing a free activity bag (one per dozen mini cupcake order) for children interested in at-home fun. Additional bags are $5. “I can’t believe we did this,” Natalie said when she speaks of opening the store. “It has been a total learning process.” Today, So Cupcake has turned into a “special little store. We’ve become a destination point. I hope we are still here in five to 10 years. I hope we keep making good cupcakes, new flavors, new things to do. I hope we can continue to learn together.” “Things change; so far we’ve been able to keep up with it.” So Cupcake is located at 4002 S. Highland Dr. l
Millcreek City Journal
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Local company, restaurants work to feed front-line workers By Libby Allnatt | l.allnatt@mycityjournals.com
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As part of the Helping Heroes program to bring meals to front-line workers, Nicholas and Company provides food, containers and delivery services. Restaurant partners donate time and labor to help prepare the meals. (Photo Courtesy of Amanda Barry)
A
food distribution company in Utah is finding ways to give back amid the coronavirus pandemic while supporting the local economy. Nicholas and Company developed an initiative called Helping Heroes in partnership with the Utah Football Foundation to help feed front-line workers with the help of local restaurants. Since the program began in April, almost 2,000 meals have been donated. “The general public knows how hard the restaurant and hospitality industry has been hit during this pandemic,” said Nicole Mouskondis, co-CEO of Nicholas and Company along with Peter Mouskondis. “We are the behind-the-scenes part of the supply chain that gets restaurants all the products they need. When restaurants are in trouble, we’re in trouble, too.” When the pandemic began making an impact in Utah this spring, Nicholas and Company created task forces to address different issues. One of those issues was an excess of inventory as businesses closed their doors as part of the fight to stop the spread of COVID-19. The company worked to offload some products to local retail organizations, including Smith’s and Associated Food Stores, but they wanted to find a way to further help the community. “We saw a lot of help going to feeding front-line workers,” Nicole said. “We noticed that we could create a win-winwin scenario if we helped ourselves, our customers and our community.…We figured that we could take the inventory we needed to donate, we could have our restaurant operators that didn’t have enough work for their workers, we could use their labor to make meals, and get those meals back out to the community.” Nicholas and Company provides food, containers and delivery services, while the restaurant partners donate time and labor to help prepare the meals. Cafe Trio was the first onboard, along with Culinary Crafts, Cuisine Unlimited and Stoneground Kitchen.
The facilities receiving the meals are all over Utah and include acute care centers that were heavily affected by the pandemic, Nicole said. Among the facilities are Rocky Mountain Care facilities, the People’s Health Clinic in Park City, the South Davis Metro Fire Department, Alta Ridge Assisted Living and Memory Care, and several others. “It helped us to get products into the community, it helped our customers, and it helped the restaurants helping make the meals,” Nicole said. She said they knew the project would be more sustainable if partnered with a nonprofit organization. One task force member had connections with the Utah Football Foundation, who were looking to do something to help with the crisis as well. “Unfortunately, we’re still in uncertain times,” Nicole said. “We knew that we would only be able to sustain this program for so long with our own donations.” Another way Nicholas and Company innovated during the pandemic is with the direct-to-consumer online market Nicco Marketplace. The public can place orders online then visit the company’s Salt Lake City facility to pick up an assortment of goods, including fresh produce, pantry staples and some non-food essentials. Nicole said that giving back to the community is important because of the “philotimo” philosophy at the heart of the company, which refers to the Greek word meaning “the love of honor” and a duty to improve the world. The mission has grown even more prevalent throughout the coronavirus pandemic. “Regular consumers can help their own communities by supporting local business,” she said. Nicholas and Company is the largest independent food distribution company across the Intermountain West. The company’s Las Vegas facility is part of the Helping Heroes program as well, providing meals through partnerships with local nonprofits to first responders in Las Vegas. l
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August 2020 | Page 11
GSD hopes higher teacher salary and detailed COVID-19 plans will entice quality applicants By Heather Lawrence | h.lawrence@mycityjournals.com
Granite School District showed teachers their appreciation with yard signs in the spring. (Heather Lawrence/City Journals)
T
he retirement of 19 long-term educators at Holladay area schools leaves a big gap in experienced teachers. Granite School District hopes that their newly approved pay scale will help attract and retain teachers, despite the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19. “In general, we are still seeing far fewer graduates in the state of Utah than we have in the past, which requires us to do a lot of
out of state recruiting in order to fill all of our positions,” said Ben Horsley, director of communications for Granite District. “We are fortunately seeing about the same amount of applicants. There have been significant investments made to ensure our salaries are competitive with our surrounding districts, and that has been a great help in attracting high quality applicants,” Horsley said. In a board meeting June 16, GSD presented their annual budget and plans for new teacher salary increases. Mitch Robison, director of budget development, reported a proposed $50,000+ salary for incoming qualified teachers with a bachelor’s degree. There will also be a 5% cost of living adjustment. Teachers needed to quickly learn about distance learning when school went online in March. Horsley feels that the new hires, many of whom are recent college graduates and have likely used distance learning, will be prepared for the unique challenges that may come this school year. “Our new hires are well versed in distance learning strategies having utilized them for their own learning. Regardless, we provide appropriate new and ongoing professional development for teachers to enhance their digital
instruction,” Horsley said. Horsley said the district doesn’t have specific numbers on teachers who chose not to return due to COVID-19 concerns. “I don’t have any detailed figures or numbers on [whether teachers have left due to health concerns] as of yet. It is still too early to see if any resignations or retirements are tied to a return to school this fall.” The Utah Education Association has published several statements on their website as the situation unfolds. “UEA members need to know their rights and job protections. A flowchart was created to provide answers and assist members in getting assistance and advocacy to make decisions about returning to work,” said UEA general counsel Tracey Watson. UEA president Heidi Matthews has made several statements about the safety of schools reopening. “I’m hearing from teachers all around the state who are fearful their school district plans don’t go far enough to protect them and their students. We urge each school district to seek educator input in their back-toschool plans,” said Matthews in a statement dated July 8. “It’s important for us to get back to
in-person learning, but we must make the transition in a way that does not unnecessarily endanger the health of our students and school staff. If we don’t prioritize the health and safety of school staff and properly accommodate high-risk employees, we fear schools may not remain open long,” Matthews said. Matthews also acknowledged that communities of color, which represent large parts of Granite District, were hit “unequally” by the pandemic. This demographic is also statistically underserved in education. Matthews said extra steps must be taken to “close the gaps that were exacerbated” by school closures. The homepage for GSD, www.graniteschools.org, states, “We are working very hard to provide a high quality, individualized learning experience for all of our students.” The site has a link to help teachers with distance learning and a link for a tech support request for families. Horsley said that Granite is taking steps to make sure teachers feel that they are safe at work. “We have and continue to work with our teacher association on a variety of issues and questions regarding what classrooms will look like this fall.” l
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Doors open at county libraries as phased reopening continues By Kathryn Elizabeth Jones | k.jones@thecityjournals.com
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ot being able to walk into a library to browse and check out books has been tough for many people during the coronavirus shutdown. Bethany Wursten, a frequent patron of the Hunter Library, said she always enjoyed picking out her books, looking through them, and making sure they were what she wanted. That process changed a bit due to the pandemic. Beginning May 26, when curbside pickup was put into place, Wursten started putting in her order via the library’s website, waiting for her time, and picking up her books at the front of the library. “Other than one time, when the system was down, everything has run pretty smooth,” she said. “It was nice and easy. With a toddler, I didn’t have to worry about dragging him in,” she added. In fact, she was surprised at how much she liked it. Utah County Library Director Jim Cooper said curbside pickup has been successful. “We’ve had a great response to the temporary changes at the libraries,” he said. Over 300,000 plus items are currently checked out, and eBook learning, including language learning, has expanded 140%. More patrons than ever are taking part in
online Storytime and STEM classes. The 72hour quarantine of items has been an ongoing process, as well as the shift in picking up holds at the front of the library, but Cooper said he has been happy with the results. Though the physical library doors have been shut for a time, the county libraries have still been running, just differently. And with
Librarians record programs for kids to watch online. (Photo courtesy Sara Neal)
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the continued phased reopening of branches on July 20, patrons can now enter their respective county library—something that hasn’t happened since May. After setting up an appointment, patrons enter their library at their designated day and time. There will be a “one-way pass holds area where they can pick up their books, as
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well as an area of displays,” Cooper said, adding that the displays are sort of a, “I think I’d like to check this out” opportunity. Of course, masks are still the order of the day, but, hopefully, patrons will enjoy this phased reopening. “Our greatest concern is the safety of our staff and the public,” he said. Case in point: When the system went down in July getting it back up was “our first priority. It was important that we protect the public’s privacy.” Computers are not available for use, nor the rental of rooms, but Cooper said they are continually “inventing processes with the staff. We are asking, ‘How will this work?’ and trying things out.” “We want people to get into their hands what they want and need for their life.” As patrons wait for a full opening of the library, Cooper suggests those with young families go online for Storytime. “It is more popular now than when we had it inside the library. We stream it live, and it is archived. You can watch it at your leisure. We used to have about 30 kids participating in Storytime, now hundreds can participate.” Plus, anything in the library can be checked out, he said. “If it’s not at your library location, we can transport it to where you are.” l
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Meet teaching mentor Lauren Szykula, a Granite District top 10 educator of the year
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auren Szykula knew what she wanted to be when she grew up as a 9 year old. One of her earliest memories as a child was setting up her stuffed animals, making them do homework and grading their papers. “I’ve kind of always known I wanted to be a teacher,” she said. Szykula (pronounced sha-cool-a), a fourth grade teacher at Diamond Ridge Elementary School, was recognized this year as an Excel winner in Granite School District. The Excel Awards, sponsored by the Granite Education Foundation, honor the top 10 educators of Granite School District each year. Winners are nominated by students, administrators, parents or colleagues who then fill out an application and then are observed several times. Szykula has been nominated for the past seven years before being rewarded in 2020. She was surprised in her classroom, at maybe not the perfect moment. Szykula was standing in her doorway holding her cell phone about to time the students when the principal and the district entourage showed up to celebrate. “But that doesn’t look great when you’re holding your cell phone and you’re the teacher,” she joked. But Szykula couldn’t have been more grateful, she said. “It’s such a huge honor to be able to be recognized out of, we’ve got over 3,000 teachers in Granite School District, I don’t think I’ve felt more special than that moment,” she said. The classroom surprise was back in March before schools shutdown. Then in June, they came to her house in Millcreek in a truck with her face on it and award her a $1,000 check. “It was amazing,” Szykula said. “It’s hard for me to talk about myself and be recognized until my mom took it upon herself to inform my family and let them
MillcreekJournal .com
By Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com
INTEGRITY. EXPERTISE.
RESULTS.
In 18 years of helping people with their real estate needs, I’ve found that it’s always about life changes and milestones. It’s personal for them and I love being a part of “What’s Next” for my clients. Fourth grade teacher at Diamond Ridge Elementary Lauren Szykula stands amidst confetti in her backyard as district officials came to present her with her Excel award. (Photo courtesy Granite School District)
know.” Szykula’s principal for the past six years, Monica Thayer, knows all about Szykula’s skill set as a teacher, using words like “dedicated,” “hard working,” “creative,” and “innovative” to describe her. In addition to great preparation, “she forms, builds and maintains relationships with kids and families,” Thayer said, adding people just feel comfortable around her because of how genuine she is in her kindness. “The kids love her, they laugh a lot but hey know that she’s there to help them learn and be their best,” Thayer said. For Szykula, that’s the most important part of teaching: building relationships. “If they don’t know that they can trust you, if they don’t feel respected or loved by you, they’re not going to hear a word you’re saying and they’re not going to learn anything,” she said. Thayer noted Szykula, whose been teaching for 11 years with 10 of those at Diamond Ridge, doesn’t do the
typical things teachers do whether through flexible seating in her classroom or using high-interest reading materials to motivate her kids. “She’s always seeking out new materials…so she can find relevant, interesting, fun and engaging learning materials for her students,” Thayer said. That constant desire to improve is an important pillar of teaching for Szykula, something she thinks every new teacher should remember. “You have to continue to learn and grow,” she said. “If you have ever thought you’ve arrived as a teacher, then you’re not open to growth and learning. The older you get and the more years you teach, the more you realize you don’t know and that you don’t have it.” Szykula’s one year not at Diamond Ridge, she worked with the District training new teachers. She also spent a year at Diamond Ridge as a reading coach, helping teachers improve their instruction. It makes sense then why Szyku-
la spearheaded the school’s battle of the books program where kids read books and compete in teams by answering questions about them. “She is definitely a lover of books and reading, that’s her strength for sure,” Thayer said. Those two years out of classroom just weren’t the same for Szykula, where she thrives. “I know that’s so cliché, ‘I do it for the kids,’ but I do,” she said. “Having your own classroom and working with a group of kids everyday is so fulfilling, it’s the best part.” Which makes this coming school year all the more difficult as districts and schools wrestle with online and in-person classrooms amid a pandemic. “I don’t know if I could think of a more difficult situation to be in than the one we’re in right now,” she said. “Where I want something so bad—to be in the classroom—but I also know that there are concerns and safety measures that need to be taken to be comfortable with doing that every day.” l
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“WHAT’S NEXT” FOR YOU... August 2020 | Page 15
SheTech Summit participants learn about technology, responses to COVID-19 and more By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com
W
hen Gillian Ruppel was a ninth-grader at Riverview Junior High, she saw a poster in the hall about the SheTech explorer day summit. “It was really cool,” Gillian recalled. “I was just fascinated by so many different technologies and companies that allowed us to explore and learn about what they do.” Since then, the Murray High student has attended every summit and this year, Gillian was on the student board that helped organize the event—although, it was held online,
much like many activities because of the social distancing response to COVID-19 pandemic. “It was still a good way to extend the opportunity to many high school students,” she said. “We heard from industry leaders, had group chats, discussions, and even held the tech challenge where we had to brainstorm ideas to solve a real problem.” The SheTech conference, organized by the Women Tech Council, traditionally invites more than 150 science, technology,
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engineering and mathematics companies and colleges to share in-person hands-on activities from robotics to auto tech to 3D gaming to technology entrepreneurship opportunities with thousands of female high school students from every county in the state. This year, in its first virtual Summit, participants heard from female STEM leaders in the state, including the recently well-known state epidemiologist Dr. Angela Dunn, who shared with them about the Healthy Together app. Dunn was followed by other female technology leaders who told the high schoolers how they stepped up to help with the response to COVID-19 from analyzing data to identifying and assisting Utah companies to pivot to produce personal protective equipment. Then, Lt. Gov. Spencer Cox welcomed participants and encouraged them to get involved in the tech fields. He even shared with them how his 13-year-old daughter is learning coding. “As Lieutenant Governor, I get to see the way that tech impacts our state and more broadly, what the industry is doing here in our state,” Cox said. “Over the last 10 years, the technology sector in Utah has grown faster than any other state with one exception and that is the state of Washington and most of that is driven by Amazon. It’s not just that we’re adding all of these jobs in the tech center. These are really good jobs and jobs that drive our economy. Tech workers make an average of 81% more than those who are working in other industries in the state. We’ve seen with this disruption in the economy that these jobs have the ability, many of them with people working from home, been able to keep generating revenue and keep expanding the economy.” Several leaders in the STEM field also held workshops, including those by Adobe and Vivint Smart Home, that were designed
to show high schoolers how they create, innovate and problem-solve. Gillian, who took part in a three-week summer intern her sophomore year, visited many of those technology companies and learned the leaders’ pathways and what careers are available. “The Summit was initiated by the leaders, but the girl board supported it. It made sense to hold it virtually since after all, it’s a technology conference. The student board helped to troubleshoot and pitch ideas,” she said. Gillian’s favorite part of the Summit is the tech challenge. This year, it was on reducing the carbon footprint. Previously, Gillian has taken part in challenges that addressed traffic problems in the canyons, pollution and refugee concerns. She said during her ninth-grade year, her group won the canyon traffic challenge by deciding upon a gondola that would connect with Utah Transit Authority in the Salt Lake Valley. “We were trying to think outside of the box on a real-world issue, using technology for a solution,” she said. Participants also could take part in industry and student challenges from defying gravity, binary basics and basic phone repair principles to hacking a website and saving the world with data. There also were creative sessions such as making elephant toothpaste, engineering your own musical instrument and vector art. Those who completed as many challenges as they could in 24 hours were eligible to win prizes. Participants also received T-shirts in the mail. “The SheTech program connects students to women in technology so we can learn firsthand from those in the field; it also can lead to having mentors or internships,” Gillian said. “It’s a great opportunity.” l
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At the virtual SheTech Summit, Lt. Gov. Spencer Cox welcomed participants and encouraged them to get involved in the tech field. (Screenshot)
Millcreek City Journal
SSL seeks to be ‘model city’ with proposed citizen review board By Bill Hardesty | b.hardesty@mycityjournals.com
S
Carruth introduced the subject at the July 8 work meeting by suggesting the SSL board be modeled after the West Valley City’s Professional Standards Review Board. He also mentioned that this effort needs to be more than starting a new program like other community outreach programs like coffee with a cop or bowl with a cop. The WVC board was established in 2013. The board is composed of a minimum of five residents. WVC employees are not allowed to be voting members of the board. The WVC board reviews all use of force by WVC police department, all vehicular pursuits, and all internal affairs investigations of police officers. The WVC board meets at least monthly. At the beginning of their meeting, they have a public comment period. Afterward, they meet in a closed-door meeting to discuss specific matters. After Carruth, city attorney Hannah Vickery led a discussion for the council. She asked the council if they wanted to take the lead or be reactionary by waiting for state or federal mandates. The council voiced their desire to take the lead by creating a Citizen Review Board. However, they don’t want to rush the effort. “Let’s be a model city. Let’s be the city Creating a board that starts this and does it right. This is going South Salt Lake Police Chief Jack to be a thoughtful process. We are not going
howing a real commitment to change, the South Salt Lake City administration and City Council continue their work on creating a Citizen Review Board. “I am supportive of South Salt Lake creating a Citizen Review Board to assist in this effort, similar to other communities in the area. My goal is to ensure that every South Salt Lake policy is reviewed through a community-based lens of diversity and inclusion. We will implement necessary changes to community action surrounding systemic issues of racial, gender and other inequality and bias,” Mayor Cherie Wood said on June 3. She continued, “We have no tolerance for racial or any other injustice in South Salt Lake. Everyone deserves to feel safe no matter the color of your skin, your gender or identity. Our work will not be finished until we all feel safe.” In a June 15 press release, City Council Chair Sharla Bynum and members at-large Natalie Pinkney and Ray de Wolfe stated, “We believe there is a solution, it comes from local conversation, listening and hard work. We have a history of providing a voice and meeting the needs of the most vulnerable in our community. We plan to establish a Citizen Review Board to create oversight and add a communal component to our police policies.”
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a variety of methods to make a complaint. Once it is received, the complaint goes to the officer’s direct sergeant. The sergeant investigates and makes a recommendation. The recommendation is sent to a lieutenant for approval. If the recommendation is approved, it goes to the deputy chief. If the deputy chief approves it, it goes to Carruth for final approval. Any time during the process, if a review does not approve the recommendation, the action is sent down the chain of command for further investigation. Off the top of his head, Carruth said the department receives about 10-15 complaints a month with three to five involving any type of discipline. Because more discussion was needed between the administration and the council, a plan was developed to work in small group discussions to hammer out the specifics. Those meetings started in late June. After which, Vickery will draft an ordinance for public comment and city council discussion. During the regular City Council meeting on July 8, residents voiced support for the review board. Residents’ complaints Jason, a new SSL resident who didn’t Councilmember Shane Siwik, District 5, give his last name, said he would like the city asked Carruth what the resident citizen com- to lead out and make the board meaningful. plaint process is. He also voiced the importance of making it Carruth explained that residents have easy and transparent. l to whip something out tonight. We are going to be very thoughtful,” Bynum said. Later Bynum added, “Being thoughtful means we listen to residents, business owners and our police officers throughout this process while balancing the limitations allowed by state and federal law.” Vickery voiced an opinion that the board is subject to the Utah Open Meeting Law, which could cause issues when dealing with individual HR type issues in a public forum. Another issue is what is the scope of the board and more importantly, what is allowed and not allowed according to state law. Pinkney pointed out that the most common request for this board to do is to review resident complaints. However, a reading of HB415 might imply that having a committee do so might be illegal. “My concern is that we will be creating a board that does what Salt Lake City’s board does, which is really is not much.…The citizens want a review board that has some power,” Pinkney said. Other councilmembers agreed that the board must have power to be meaningful.
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Finding the calm in a heart
Aimee Winder Newton Salt Lake County Council | District 3
I have always loved the Fourth of July. Our family activities over the years have ranged from driving up the canyon to the Brighton Breakfast or riding parades. In the evening, we’ve had the tradition of lighting fireworks with our neighbors. I love to celebrate America and appreciate the incredible and miraculous history of our country. This year our family enjoyed watching, “Hamilton” and gained an even greater appreciation for our Founding Fathers. As I reflected on our celebration of America, I’ve thought a lot about the creation of our country, as well as the issues facing our country today. I have no doubt that the events that transpired during the Revolutionary War, the incredible feat of developing our country’s Constitution, and many other events during this time were truly miracles. So let’s talk about modern times. This year was interesting. Besides a pandemic, earthquake, and fires, we have civil unrest that has escalated in our own cities. Without getting into details of these highly emotional and often politicized specifics, I think it’s safe to say that most of us have seen the incredible divide in
our society. No longer can we share a political viewpoint without others going on the attack. Social media has become a civil war of sorts where people seem to have lost all civility and respect for their fellow humans. This Fourth of July was interesting for me. As an elected official, I wanted to post something on my public Facebook page to honor the day, but I even found myself scratching my head… not sure how to post something that wouldn’t create drama, or could be politicized. I’m finding more and more that posting about puppies seems to be the only safe play on social media. I am grateful for our country. I know that America is an incredible place and we all have much to be grateful for. But right now some have their anxiety on high alert as we continually see news reports of riots, Covid cases on the rise, racial divide, earthquakes, and other crazy 2020 issues. So how do we find peace in 2020? When I was decorating my family room a few years ago I ran into an awesome sale at Bed, Bath and Beyond. I found a giant wood wall hanging with colors that matched perfectly for only
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$19.99 and I bought it. The words were nice. But never before have these words been needed more than this year. It says, “Peace is not about silence. It is not a place without trouble or fear. Peace is standing in the middle of chaos and finding the calm in your heart.” Whether upset by destruction during downtown riots, a crazy busy governor’s race, or other family issues, I’ve needed to remember where peace really comes from and how to find that calm in my heart. In the past I’ve struggled with anxiety - an ailment that seems to run in my family. Being able to look at things with a pragmatic viewpoint, relying on my faith to help me through, and getting enough sleep at night are some of the things I’ve learned to do to help me have that calm in my heart. It’s not easy, and there are many things that are out of our control, but relying on my higher power, keeping my friend and family relationships strong, and taking care of myself are things that seem to help. As we continue through this crazy year, my best wishes to you and your family to find that calm in your heart.
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For the last five months, we’ve been locked up with our families for 17 years. Each day is another long, hot trek to bedtime. Parents break their brains thinking up creative ways to entertain their kids during this “summer vacation” that started in March and threatens to continue through fall. The phrase “Families Can Be Together Forever” is now a terrifying prophecy. Here’s what we’ve learned: Sometimes video games ARE the answer. Celebrities share Tik Tok videos about being “stranded” in their $6.5 million log cabins where everyone has their own TV, floor, masseuse, trampoline and personal chef. I’m not belittling their suffering, I’m just . . . well, I guess I am. For common folk, trampolines are as hard to find as Lysol wipes. Puzzles, board games and sidewalk chalk are valuable commodities on the black market (along with livers, since we’ve been day- drinking for
months). Everyone is heading outside to escape. Extended families stretch the “No large gathering” rules to the max because COVID wouldn’t ruin the annual family reunion, right? Lakes, canyons, national parks and camp sites are packed with people who thought they were the only ones who needed a break from looking at the same dirty carpeting for one more day. I’ve been on several hikes this summer, sometimes with the puppy, sometimes with the grandkids. Not necessarily relaxing, but at least we take the fight to a different location. My latest hike was tackling Bell’s Canyon with my daughter and three of my grandkids, including a 3- and 4-year-old. If that sounds like something out of a Stephen King novel, you are correct. Before we even started up the trail the complaining began. “I’m so hot.” “The trail is too steep.”
“The dirt is too dirty.” “I’m so thirsty.” My daughter told me to shut up and set a better example, but it was too late. The littles were soon echoing my whines at super-high decibel levels. I ended up confiscating water bottles after a good portion was dumped onto the trail to make mud. I explained to the toddlers what happens when you dehydrate. They didn’t care. It took roughly five days to make our way to the reservoir where the kids splashed in the cool water, tossed wet sand at each other, threw crackers at the ducks, slipped on the rocks and screamed at the dragonflies. I considered calling in a rescue helicopter, figuring the expense was worth not having to walk back down the trail. Instead, we bribed the kids with McDonald’s, promising processed chicken parts if they’d walk faster than a drugged porcupine. We made it back to the car exhausted, sunburned and
grumpy – just like a normal summer hike! Backyards are also being used to their fullest. Our luxurious backyard pool (a 6’ wading pool from Walmart) is usually a weird shade of green and full of dead bugs, but that doesn’t stop us from soaking in the probably dangerous water, eating popsicles. If I don’t get sick from COVID, malaria might be another option. The grandkids set up a tent a couple of weeks ago, hoping to have a backyard campout. They roasted marshmallows over the grill and climbed into their sleeping bags only to be shaken awake two hours later by a microburst that threatened to carry them to Oz. Everyone was safe, but traumatized, which seems to be the status quo in these crazy times. Returning to school is the big debate right now, followed by what should be a strange Halloween and holiday season. Sure makes eternity feel like a really long time. l
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