Riverton Journal | December 2021 by The City Journals

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iverton High School students are excited for Silver Rush season. Many save money all year to spend on Silver Rush activities that benefit a local charity. “It’s really special for our school,” student body officer Cayce Kirkham said. “We’ve built a culture and a community of giving around this time of year.” Students and community members can expect three weeks of activities including an improv comedy show (Dec. 3), Battle of the Bands (Dec. 4), a boutique (Dec. 4), Mr. Silver Rush pageant (Dec. 7), and holiday music concerts (Dec. 14 and 15). Students will be on the road in front of the school to accept donations on the evening of Dec. 15. Community members can purchase Silver Rush Shakes at Arctic Circle or purchase admission or food at local businesses and restaurants which will donate a portion of their proceeds to Silver Rush on certain nights. Information about these events will be posted on Instagram @rhs_ silverwolves and the school website. Two-thirds of the student body will be experiencing their first real Silver Rush—last year’s events were severely limited due to public safety precautions. Students are excited to be able to perform Odd Jobs every night 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., going door-to-door to offer help to community members and to collect donations. The proceeds of Silver Rush this year will

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go to the Single Parent Project. Funds will help buy Christmas gifts and help single parents pay for extracurricular activities for their children, including RHS students. “This is a super local charity and all of the change that we’re doing will directly impact our community,” SBO Grayson Smith said. Meghann Brimhall is the founder of Single Parent Project. She was the very first sophomore class president at Riverton High School (19992000) and helped start the tradition of Silver Rush. “To be a part of the very first Silver Rush and then be a part of it again in a completely different role and being on the receiving end is so amazing,” she said. Single Parent Project provides financial support, workshops, support groups and a community for single parents. Brimhall said Silver Rush contributions will boost their scholarship program for single parents who are going back to school or who are sending their kids to college. Two of her board members and an employee are RHS alumni who are thrilled to be part of Silver Rush once again. Continued page 22

Riverton High School student body officers prepare for Silver Rush 2020. (Photo courtesy of Katie Borgmeier.)

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‘What is a veteran?’ Riverton commemorates Veterans Day with guest speaker Veteran joined military shortly after Vietnam, served in Panama By Dylan Wilcox | d.wilcox@mycityjournals.com

esidents of Riverton City gathered in the Sandra N. Lloyd Community Center on Veterans Day to honor and commemorate individuals in the community who served in the military. Following the presentation of colors by the American Legion Post 140, Riverton City Mayor, Trent Staggs, welcomed the group of 200 people to the evening’s events. “We owe [our veterans] a debt of gratitude that I think can never be repaid,” Staggs said. Staggs introduced the keynote speaker, veteran Brian L McCoy, who served for five years in the Army. McCoy, a native of Four Corners, served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in South Texas and then returned to Utah where he completed his undergraduate studies at BYU Provo. He and his wife Jan have nine children. Currently, McCoy practices law and is the Chair of Mexican-Latino Institute of Utah. According to McCoy, he determined it would be better to enlist in the military by his own accord rather than being drafted so he could have more autonomy on his training and job assignments. “[I] opted for military intelligence since I had a degree in political science and spoke Spanish. I was then offered a slot in Officer Candidate School and graduated as a second lieutenant about a year after enlisting,” he said. McCoy began his military service in 1970, shortly after the Vietnam War. Following extensive training, in 1972 McCoy was sent to the Panama Canal Zone where he learned various military techniques from demolition to parachuting. McCoy served as a military intelligence officer, which was part of a Special Forces company S2 and Special Forces A-Team Leader, a group who

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Left: Veteran Brian McCoy, guest speaker, addresses members of the Riverton community at the Sandra Lloyd Community Center on Nov. 11, 2021. (Brook Bowen/Riverton City) Right: Brian McCoy with his wife, Jan, in 1972. (Photo courtesy of Brian McCoy)

specialized in conventional and unconventional guerilla warfare. Their objective was to evacuate the United States Embassy in the case of an emergency, a situation that never transpired during his tour in Panama. While in Panama, he and his fellow service members visited several remote villages which were only accessible by air drop or by boat. McCoy showed pictures of his tour to the audience. A photograph of a young Panamanian child flashed across the screen; McCoy joked that the child was a “confidential informant.” “My military experience was invaluable,” McCoy said. “I learned things that I don’t think can be learned as well any other way: self-discipline, perseverance, physical

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conditioning, team work, loyalty, specialized skills, leadership, planning, and mission accomplishment. All of those things have stayed with me and made me a better father, citizen, lawyer and even church leader.” After sharing with the audience a few pictures of his three-year-stint in Panama, McCoy focused on his fellow veterans. He offered them a moment of introspection by asking, “What is a veteran? How would you define or describe yourself?” He answered his rhetorical question by saying, “A veteran, in my mind, is someone who takes a stand.” McCoy referenced the Founding Fathers who signed the Declaration of Independence. Noting that their backgrounds varied in everything from age to social status, Mc-

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Coy stated that despite their differences, the Founding Fathers were united in their desire for freedom. “These men risked committing treason [against the British Crown] for the pursuit of liberty and freedom,” McCoy said. Following the American Revolutionary War and other similar conflicts, due to the efforts of soldiers, the United States began to etch itself into history books and eventually established independence. As the United States defined itself through the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, the country’s dream is ongoing. Veterans serve as the “guardians” of the country, McCoy says. McCoy encourages all citizens to be patriots and to stand up for the freedoms afforded to all Americans by the Constitution, which was created through the blood and sacrifice of early American patriots. Under the direction of Bill Mattingly, the Riverton Jazz Band regaled the audience with renditions of jazz classics such as “In The Mood.” Vocalist Valaura Arnold performed two songs, “Blue Skies” and “Orange Colored Sky,” accompanied by the jazz band. Following Arnold’s performance, the band played “America the Beautiful” and “American Patrol,” followed by the anthem of each military branch. As each branch anthem was performed, veterans from the Army, Navy, Air Force, National Guard and Marine Corps stood to be recognized. Melissa Sullivan, representing the Quilts of Valor Foundation, recognized the individual veterans who attended. Each of the veterans were presented a handmade quilt by the foundation. The Quilts of Valor Foundation has given out over 286,000 quilts to veterans across the country since 2003.

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Sullivan referred to a quote by Arthur Ashe who said, “True heroism is remarkably sober, very undramatic. It is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost, but the urge to serve others at whatever cost.” She added, “This defines veterans for me and what they continue to do every day for our country.” Jennifer Lee, board member for the Quilts of Valor Foundation, could not make it to the event, so Sullivan represented the foundation in her stead. The quilts were handmade by members of the community “to say thank you for your service and sacrifice in serving the nation,” Sullivan said. Each veteran lined up to be recognized and was presented with their own unique quilt following the retirement of the colors. Staggs gave closing remarks. “While we give thanks and honor [our veterans’] service, we must share the responsibility of protecting freedom here at home. We can do this, in part, by voting in elections, providing service to others, speaking out against those who would undermine our American values – the Constitution and the great ideals for which the country was founded – this is a work in progress.” Referencing former President Ronald Reagan who said freedom could be “a generation away from extinction,” Staggs encouraged those in attendance to fight and protect freedom. “Thank you so much for your service and defending the liberty of this great nation in advancing freedom around the globe,” Staggs said. “No one understands the price of freedom more than those who have served our country,” he added. Veterans Day, previously known as Armistice Day, Quilts were presented to veterans on behalf of the Quilts of Valor marks the official end of World War I on Nov. 11, 1918. Foundation. (Brook Bowen/Riverton City) l

Bluffdale has a new mayor, two incumbent councilwomen retain seats By Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com

t’s been 12 years, but Bluffdale has a new mayor in town. Natalie Hall defeated John Roberts to win Bluffdale’s mayoral election. Hall will replace the outgoing Mayor Derk Timothy, who chose not run again after three terms at the helm. Hall, the city’s emergency manager and public information officer for the past seven years, won 75% of the vote (2,497 of the 3,344 ballots cast). In a Facebook post the day after the election, Hall expressed her gratitude for living in a place where you could “vote and campaign for the opportunity to represent our family and friends.” “Everyone who submitted their name to run as a candidate in Bluffdale sacrificed their time and worked hard,” she wrote. “I am grateful to everyone who

ran. I am also grateful to everyon who supported me—thank you. I look forward to developing relationships with those I don’t know. Bluffdale’s future is bright. We are doing great things and will continue to grow our parks and trails, businesses, homes and most of all our community.” Both Wendy Aston and Traci Crockett retained their council seats in the election, done by Ranked Choice Voting for the first time. The two defeated challengers Connie Robbins (who came just behind Aston in 2017 by a mere four votes), Blain Dietrich and Tammy Rasmussen. Councilmembers are all atlarge, not separated by districts similar in other cities. Both councilwomen were endorsed by the Bluffdale Firefighters Association. l

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Resident’s account of Pearl Harbor attack keeps history alive By Julie Slama | j.slama@mycityjournals.com

even-year-old Virginia was skipping alongside her four-year-old sister, Betsy. Her six-month-old sister Dixie was being carried by her mother, Catherine. They stopped close to the dock near where her father, a physician, had just finished his overnight shift and was about to disembark on the gangplank. It was unusual for him to work that shift, but they planned to join him that Sunday morning with the picnic basket they packed for breakfast. He waved to them from the USS Honolulu, just seconds before a low-flying aircraft flew over the harbor. Then, the loudest noise Virginia had ever heard exploded near them. It was a 550-pound bomb that hit the Naval Station dock 20 feet from where the cruiser was moored. “It was so loud, terribly loud,” she recalls. “At first, we didn’t see them (the planes) until the bombs started dropping.” With the smoke from the bombs, Virginia could no longer see her father, who had returned to the ship. “He realized before we did what was happening,” she said. “My mother was busy corralling three of us, but the bombs were coming, and she realized we had to go someplace. The planes were low enough we could

see the pilots’ faces and see the red circles (marking of the Empire of Japan) on the planes.” Virginia, her sisters and mother made it along the Southeast Lock to the Hickam officers’ club, which was being shelled as well. They then hurried and hid underneath a bandstand in a park near the dock. “They were shooting or shelling anybody who’s walking or in cars and was trying to leave so we had to hide,” she remembered. That was Pearl Harbor Dec. 7, 1941 — 80 years ago. At the docks, more than 150 U.S. Pacific fleet ships and service craft were anchored at 8 a.m. when Virginia Wood Harris had arrived just before the first wave of nearly 200 Japanese torpedo planes, bombers and fighters. A second wave dropped additional bombs 30 minutes later. It has been documented that by late morning, 19 ships were damaged or sunk, having been destroyed by the Japanese bombers. Her father’s ship suffered hull damage and extensive flooding from a bomb that hit and created a 17-by-15-foot hole in the dock. Before that day, Harris enjoyed riding her bike, putting together puzzles, reading animal stories, singing songs about rainbows

and playing with friends in the neighborhood, which was about 20 miles away from the base. She attended second grade at Punahou, the same private school which former President Barrack Obama later attended. “We went barefoot at school — I don’t know why,” she said. “My parents were big on education. They were both college graduates. (Her mother was a librarian before she was married.) I never went to a military school. I always went to a public school or if they didn’t think it was good enough, I went to a private school.” Oahu was a tropical, lush utopia, with a gentle climate and sugar cane and pineapple plantations back then, Virginia said. What she remembered most was the sparkling water and beautiful beaches. “It was paradise. They couldn’t keep me out of the water,” she said. Harris was shielded from the fact World War II was going on — until that surprise attack. In an instant, her years of innocence ended. While scores of youngsters may have witnessed the attack that killed 11 children under the age of 16, Harris may have been amongst the closest.

“I was right there, and I knew right then what was going on,” she said. “I remember I kept saying, ‘Are we going to die?’ You could hear the noise and that was what was so scary. It was the noise, a horrible noise, and then to see that smash where it landed. The bombs were dropping on the ships, and we were right near it. We were so scared.” Virginia, Betsy and Dixie huddled against their mother for hours. Servicemen, who also took shelter there from the shelling, were shocked to see them. “There were all the sailors; they were trying to get to their ships. The shore patrol from the Navy came by and said (to my mother), ‘What the hell are you doing here?’” she said. The family car, which they drove to pick up her father for that special breakfast, was turned over to a medical corpsman so it could be used as an ambulance. A chaplain later came by after the bombing and took them home. “I don’t remember looking back at the ships. We were trying to get out of there,” she said, adding that although they were aware that the servicemen were in danger, they were still scared for their own lives. Their home was intact, but it wasn’t the

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Riverton City Journal

same. “We had some Japanese ladies helping with the house who left and never came back. They left on their own because honestly any Japanese then were suspect,” she said, adding that they ended up having some other women stay at their home. Her father returned home a week later, not knowing his family’s fate until then. “He said he chose ‘the wrong day for the picnic,’” Harris recalled. Other than that, “he never discussed what he did.” She didn’t return to school, as it was cancelled after the attack that had crippled the United States’ naval and air strength in the Pacific. “Everything was shut down with the battle, everything, because they were afraid that we were going to have another round. Everything sort of stopped for a couple months,” Harris said. “Everybody was just scared. I remember blackouts every night because we were afraid the Japanese were coming back.” Within two months, she, along with her sisters and mother, were evacuated to San Francisco. But that, too, wasn’t without incident. “We were sitting on a convoy and one night, they were afraid the Japanese subs were trailing. So, they took everyone on the deck, in case they had to abandon the ship,” she said, adding that thankfully that didn’t happen. Her father, and the family beagle, Ben-

ny, arrived five months later on the restored USS Honolulu. “Not many people can bring a dog back on a warship,” she remembered. Her father, Capt. John P. Wood, who served both at the Pearl Harbor Naval Hospital and then on the USS Honolulu, led a “long and distinguished service,” according to a letter he received from the secretary of the U.S. Navy upon his retirement in 1957. The letter said that he “set standards of performance that will be most difficult to emulate.” Virginia followed in her father’s footsteps and studied at Baylor University, his alma mater. She married and became a teacher, working in education for 39 years, joining her family’s tradition of teachers and doctors. While Harris has no plans to return to Pearl Harbor this month for the commemoration, she did take her family back in 2013, the first time she had returned since she left after the bombing, to visit her grandson who was stationed there on a submarine. Harris showed her family around the base as well as her neighborhood and school, which still had her name in its records. The officers’ club and bandstand were no longer there, but they walked the now repaired dock and visited the USS Arizona Memorial — and she relived the day when she saw first-hand the attacks that brought the United States into World War II. l

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Riverton resident behind Murray’s candy art display By Shaun Delliskave | s.delliskave@mycityjournals.com

ow sweet it is that when you mess up at work, you get to eat it, and it tastes delicious. Raelyn Webster, a master artist of all things candy, will again take her palette to Murray City Hall’s canvas. Residents can view her handiwork through the end of the year at the main display window by the city council chamber. “This year, we are focusing on the Cahoon Mansion (the Murray Mansion), along with a couple of other historic houses. I’ve used John Cahoon’s family as my inspiration and hope to have the whole family in the display,” Webster said. This marks the third year of Murray’s candy window display, in which she was the inaugural and only candy artist. Previously, Webster spent seven years designing candy window displays in South Jordan and Provo. In addition, she attended school at Brigham Young University as a design major. “I used to go to see the ZCMI windows with my nieces and always dreamed of being able to make displays like theirs. After they stopped doing them, I heard from a friend that Provo City was trying to revive the tradition, and I got the chance to do my first candy display in 2001, and the city kept them up for the Olympics,” Webster said. After moving to Riverton, Webster retired from the candy design business and started raising puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind. A few years later, Murray City Cultural Arts Manager Lori Edmunds, then working for South Jordan, contacted her about starting up the tradition for the city. But after becoming a foster parent for refugee minors who came to the U.S. without parents, life got too complicated, so she retired again. But Edmunds, now at Murray City, came knocking again. “Lori switched to working for Murray City, and she approached me again about doing candy displays for Murray. Somehow, she talked me into it again, and this is my third year making candy displays for Murray City. I have a dream of using candy to illustrate some children’s books, and I haven’t accomplished that yet, so I think that is why I am still doing candy displays,” Webster said. Last year, Webster recreated the Murray Theater in a winter-like setting with the Murray Park sledding hill, complete with

sledders. Towering in the background stood Murray’s iconic smokestacks. With licorice, jelly beans, and lots of sugar, she crafts almost anything. For Provo, she did a mountain scene with skiers and a train that went under the mountain. She has constructed elaborate sets such as a New York cityscape with an ice skater on the top of a building and a giant blimp that Santa used instead of reindeer. For South Jordan, she paid homage to popular characters such as Snoopy on his doghouse, Frosty the Snowman, Yoda reading a Christmas story to Ewoks, and a working Ferris wheel with Christmas characters. What was her favorite candy project? According to Webster, “I don’t know if I have a favorite, but my husband, Bill, who helps me with all the structures and mechanical things, loved the Ferris wheel the most. It was pretty amazing how it turned out. He worked very hard to make it work. It was donated to the Festival of Trees.” With each project, Webster starts with something as inspiration and then looks at the display space she must use and develops ideas on using the area effectively. Then she figures out how to build the support structure and configure any electrical components. Last, she picks colors and researches candy that might work well for the different parts of the display. Then in the spring, she starts construction and works all summer to get it finished. “The unknowns are probably the hardest,” Webster said. “Every display is different, and we have to figure out how to create a strong but light support structure because by the time it is all covered in candy, it gets really heavy. Scale is another challenge that we struggle with, and then I always want it to be perfect, and it never is. Projects are only perfect in my imagination. Once we start construction, imperfections always happen.” While working with candy as a medium might be one’s, well… icing on the cake, for Webster, the most appetizing part of the job is watching others take in her work. “My favorite part is when it is all done, and I get to see how kids enjoy seeing what I have created. I hope it will inspire them to make something out of candy too,” Webster said. l

Last year’s candy display by Raelyn Webster featured the Murray Theater, smokestacks and Murray Parks’ sledding hill. (Photo courtesy Murray City)

Page 8 | December 2021

Riverton City Journal

Running unopposed, Trent Staggs elected to second term as mayor By Justin Adams | justin.a@thecityjournals.com

iverton Mayor Trent Staggs was elected to a second term this election cycle, after running unopposed. Even in a one-sided race, nearly 5,000 Riverton residents still cast a vote for Staggs, something he doesn’t take for granted. “That was encouraging to see that, to see people put in their vote of confidence,” Staggs told the Riverton Journal. Not only was the mayoral race limited to one candidate, but so were both council races (Tawnee McCay for District 3 and Tish Buroker for District 4). Without a competitive race in the city, Staggs said some people suggested that even sending out ballots this year might have been a waste of time and money. But he disagreed. “I think the ability to cast one’s ballot is one of the most fundamental duties in our republic. Even in a situation where a race is unopposed, you still allow people to do that,” he said. Rather than a sign of civic disengagement, Staggs said he feels the lack of a challenger indicates a seal of approval for his first term in the mayor’s office. Asked about his accomplishments or highlights from the last four years, Staggs pointed to a few different topics: • Economic development: New commer-

cial development like Mountain View Village has helped expand the city’s sales tax base, which has allowed the city to keep property taxes low. • Resident engagement: One of Staggs’ original campaign promises was to prioritize increasing engagement with residents. As part of that effort, the city has revamped its website, created an app, improved its social media presence and started new committees and other opportunities for residents to get involved in their community. • Securing state dollars: Working closely with other mayors from nearby cities, Staggs said he has successfully worked with the state legislature to secure crucial funding for infrastructure projects in the southwest valley, such as the improvement projects currently underway along Bangerter Highway. Heading into 2022 and a second term, Staggs said he’s looking forward to serving the city four more years. In addition to continuing the efforts listed above, he said he’s excited about efforts to revitalize Riverton’s “old downtown” area, as well as a project to reactivate a dormant well within the city in an effort to expand the water supply. l

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Veterans Day program is music to the ears of veterans By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com

tah National Guard Sgt. Brody Gregory was inspired to join the military because of the pride he had for his father. “When I was in first grade, my father walked into my class in uniform, and I knew that that’s what I wanted to do,” he said. “He was my hero, I wanted to be like him.” Students at North Star Academy in Bluffdale proudly invited veterans, some family members and some community members, to be honored at NSA’s Veterans Day Program. NSA Principal Tana Archer said the an-

nual program honors those “who sacrificed and took time away from their families to serve our country” and is held to “help students understand what it means to live in this fantastic country with the incredible citizens that are here.” Each grade level of students performed a song for the audience of parents, grandparents and veterans, ranging from traditional patriotic songs to lesser-known but moving pieces. “Music is a way that people know how to express their feelings,” NSA music teach-

Students perform patriotic songs to honor veterans. (Jet Burnham/City Journals)

er Angela Peterson said. “So, I think that it’s important for people to hear these songs, especially these patriotic songs. It inspires them and creates emotions.” The younger students sang songs enthusiastically, using creative actions or props. Older students signed one song in ASL and performed silhouette scenes during another song. Fourth grade students performed a rhythm stick routine to a rousing “Semper Fidelis” march. “It was really challenging because we had to memorize everything,” fourth-grader Mason Bischoff said. Mason invited his grandpa, Don Johnson, an army veteran, to attend the performance, as his siblings have every year for the past 12 years. “I hope he feels he’s loved because he served,” Mason said. Johnson enjoys supporting his grandkids’ school activity and believes it is important for kids to recognize the sacrifice veterans and their families make for their country. “They need to know that it takes a lot to put your life on the line and be willing to give,” Johnson said. Serving in the military is a family legacy for Johnson— his grand-

father served in WWI and his father served in WWII. His wife, Dale Johnson, told Mason and his sister, Kinley, a second grader, that their program means a lot to veterans. She believes it is important to honor veterans so that people don’t forget them and their sacrifices. Veterans in the audience were invited to stand to be honored while the school choir sang the songs of the branches of the military. Each veteran received a small bouquet of poppies. Some local veterans were invited to participate in the program. Gregory read John McCrae’s poem “In Flanders Fields.” Representatives from the local VFW explained the symbolism of the folding of an American flag, and presented a folded flag to Beatrice Ruggeri, NSA’s art teacher who recently became an American citizen. NSA Intervention Specialist Shana Absey said the Veterans Day program is a beloved school tradition that has been going for more than 12 years. “We do it because it’s important and it’s so good for the kids to learn,” she said. “We love doing it. It’s just one of the things our school does. We don’t have to do it, we just choose to do it.” l

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Riverton City Journal

Season of Scarlett will strengthen school traditions By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com

n Dec. 13, members of Mountain Ridge High School’s drill, dance and cheer teams will compete in a basketball game unlike any other this year. Spectators will have the power to influence the game, paying money to switch out players, or to distract one of the teams from scoring by requiring them to do a silly task. “It’s not even real basketball,” said head cheerleader Hollie Makuakane, who participated in the fundraising game two years ago. “You’re supposed to get the ball in the net, but half the time you have to army crawl or do cheer stunts. I remember just laughing the whole entire time.” The entertaining basketball game is one of the big money-makers of MRHS’s Season of Scarlett charity drive. “We didn’t get to do it last year, but our first year was huge,” SBO Vice President Rylie Schmidt said. “It’s very competitive and very fun.” The winners of the game aren’t the team who makes the most baskets, but the team who gets the most donations, which will be given to Angel’s Hands Foundation to help families with children who have a rare or undiagnosed disability. Other Season of Scarlett fundraising activities include a bingo night, volleyball tournament, hot chocolate drive thru and restaurant nights, where a portion of the restaurant’s proceeds will be donated to the charity. Every evening from Nov. 29 to Dec. 17, groups of MRHS students will go door-todoor in the community to perform odd jobs and to collect donations. Last year, students were unable to participate in Odd Jobs due to public safety concerns. “Especially the seniors, having to miss out on their charity season—it was heartbreaking,” Schmidt said. Traditions such as Season of Scarlett are how a school develops their culture, said Schmidt, but Mountain Ridge High hasn’t had an uninterrupted school year since it opened in 2019. “With it being such a young school, our traditions aren’t really traditions yet,” Schmidt said. “Because last year, we couldn’t actually do anything and the year before it was the first year so there wasn’t a tradition. So this is the first year that we’re trying to really emphasize those traditions.” She hopes that students will be involved as much as they can in this year’s in-school and after school activities to develop stronger school spirit. The effect the COVID-19 pandemic had on charity season last year, as well as other traditional high school activities, has been a unifying experience for the student body, said Schmidt. “We all kind of came really close

RivertonJournal.com

Mountain Ridge High student body officers held a trunk or treat event for the Angel’s Hands Foundation and chose them as the recipient of this year’s Seasons of Scarlett charity drive. (Photo courtesy of Richard Hoonakker.)

during COVID and during shutdowns, because we were all going through the same thing,” Schmidt said. SBO adviser Richard Hoonakker said the frustrations of last year—not being able to execute their ideas—has made his 24 student government leaders even more enthusiastic about planning this year’s events. He said they are planning better, working harder, and staying after school longer. “They are all self-motivated and I think it’s because they realized how much they value being able to work or being able to do something,” Hoonakker said. Season of Scarlett is an important tradition because teenagers learn to work for something that’s bigger than themselves and see the impact they can have, Hoonakker said. The focus is more on the service they give than on the amount of money they raise. “I want the kids to work their guts out and be proud of the amount they raise,” Hoonakker said. “I never want their success to be measured on the number.” Still, the closing assembly, when the amount of money the students have raised is revealed, is a highlight of Season of Scarlett. “I cannot describe the feeling of seeing that number and being able to present that check to that family, to know that we helped them and that they won’t have to stress for Christmas,” Schmidt said. “It’s an incredible feeling.” l

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December 2021 | Page 11

Bestselling author Brandon Mull ignites students’ imaginations

By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com

n an assembly where he shared details of his personal journey from an imaginative kid to a world famous author, New York Times bestselling author Brandon Mull encouraged students to develop their imaginations and to pursue creative outlets. “I’m a huge believer in imagination,” Mull told students. He was shocked when his first series, “Fablehaven,” became popular world-wide. “It shows me that you never know how far your ideas might go if you choose to share.” Mull has done thousands of assemblies—a few hundred each year for the past 16 years— with the purpose of encouraging reluctant readers to get excited about reading. He loves to hear that he’s made a difference in kids’ lives. “When I hear that the books helped get somebody reading, that’s the home run,” he said. “That’s one of the things I’m most hoping to accomplish is write a book people will read, on purpose, for fun. The other home run I get is when a whole family says they read it together and they bonded over it.” In November, Mull held assemblies at Oquirrh Hills Middle and Southland Elementary in which he encouraged students to exercise their imagination regularly and gave advice to those interested in writing their own stories. When an OHMS student asked for

tactic that has worked for Mull—many of his books are about kids who get into trouble and have to figure a way out of it. Mull’s books are popular with students and faculty, said OHMS school librarian Paula Butterfield. Over 300 students requested to attend the assembly, which was optional. She said it was a special opportunity for fans of Mull, especially those who got their books signed and took selfies with the author. “Brandon’s presentation was very well done,” Butterfield said. “I especially liked that he talked with students about how important it is to have a creative outlet, so their imaginations don’t become stagnant. He also emphasized that reading can be a powerful tool used to stimulate their imaginations.” OHMS teachers provide regular opportunities for students to express their creativity, said seventh grade English teacher Melissa Stewart. “Usually at the end of each quarter, we will have some type of creative extension project that allows students to apply what we have learned in a new and interesting way,” she said. “This really helps to solidify the concepts because the students get to express themselves and their personal understanding.” Seventh-graders learn various types of writing, including narratives. They also study

op characters in his books. Mull’s books are also popular with Southland Elementary students. “ B r a n d o n ’s books are among the most consistently popular books in the school library, in classroom libraries, and for use by teachers as a read aloud,” Principal Garret York said. S o u t h l a n d Students make creative (and funny) suggestions as they help Brandon Mull create students are ex- the details of a new world during an assembly at Southland Elementary. (Jet Burnposed to a wide va- ham/City Journals) riety of books, auscared to pick up previously.” thors and genres. During his assembly, Mull encouraged Students participate in Battle of the Books students to use their imaginations to create and a school-wide reading program. “In addition to building their motivation new worlds and stories, which was an excitto read, our new Walk-to-Read program and ing idea for many of them. “I like that students seem to have gained other literacy initiatives are helping to better prepare students to tackle even the toughest a new desire to build their own writing skills, book,” York said. “By making reading less something that is more difficult to motivate a intimidating and helping students build the student to do than read,” York said after the skills they need to become effective readers, assembly. “I’m excited to see the results.” l

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Page 12 | December 2021 advice in overcoming writer’s block, his ad- legends, myths and fairy tales, which Mull they are less hesitant to pick up a large book vice was to add more trouble to the plot. It’s a told the students he borrows from to devel- that they may have been interested in but too

Riverton City Journal

Hats are just the tip of the iceberg of new school dress code By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com

or the first time in decades, Jordan School District’s dress code has been updated. Specific lists of prohibited clothing and ambiguous language such as “well-groomed” and “modest” have been removed from the policy wording. The new policy gives more autonomy to school administrators to make specific decisions for their own student bodies. Included is a graphic that simplifies standards so that students, parents and administrators can easily identify if an outfit is compliant and how to adjust it if it is not. A district committee, headed by Student Services Director Travis Hamblin, spent over a year reviewing school dress code policies from around the country. The pandemic delayed the process, but finally, after receiving substantial feedback from parents, students and educators, the new policy was approved Oct. 26 and went into effect immediately. The next day, students responded to the news by wearing hats and flipping their hoodies onto their heads, since the new policy no longer prohibits hats. Extreme hairstyles, including hair color, are also no longer specifically prohibited. Some of the specific exclusions listed in the old code,

which was written in 1974, were from the post-Vietnam era and based on the cultural norms of the majority culture. “The policy was written back when everybody dressed a whole lot differently than how they dress now,” said Yan’tu Barber, District Diversity and Culture Specialist and member of the Jordan Ethnic Advisory Committee. He said the old policy was problematic for students who wore, for example, baggy pants or a “Boyz in the Hood” movie T-shirt which was acceptable within their culture but cause for being removed from class at school. “We don’t want our kids being sent down on dress code infractions when it’s not even a dress code infraction,’’ Barber said. He said when he was a teacher, he was not worried about what a kid was wearing. “I’m not worried about that, I’m worried about if the kid is sitting in the classroom, that they’re getting the content that I’m teaching,” he said. “Those are the things that supersede how a kid’s dressed.” Jordan Board of Education President Tracy Miller said the catalyst for the update of the policy was to make it more gender neutral and more culturally sensitive. The dress code is part of the Student

student behavior, including dress code violations. “What we sought to do is avoid prescriptive enforcement to focus on learning and relationships and to reduce out-of-class time,” Hamblin said. The new policy provides greater flexibility by not specifically listing types of clothing not allowed or requiring specific measurements of clothing. Barber believes it will take time for administrators to decide what works best for their student body and then ensure consistent enforcement among staff members. “The enforcement of it will ultimately indicate if it’s a better policy or not,” Barber said. “If some of our kids of different cultural backgrounds are still getting dress code [violations], maybe at a higher clip, or for something that is maybe pertaining to their culture, then that would be more informative for us to see if the dress code is really being as effective as the new policy is written.” This graphic illustrates general dress standards for The Jordan Ethnic Advisory CommitJordan School District students. (Photo courtesy of tee is currently trying to revise the gradJordan School District.) uation dress code to allow graduates to Code of Conduct policy, which has also wear cultural decorations, such as leis and been revised to remove the zero-tolerance national flags, during their graduation cerresponses and punitive consequences for emony. l

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Riverton City Journal

Tech students are so talented, it’s scary By Jet Burnham | j.burnham@mycityjournals.com

tudents impressed their peers, instructors and judges at Jordan Academy of Technology and Careers annual hair and nail design competition. Held Oct. 28, the theme was “Fall Fantasy.” Students teamed up to style models as characters such as Edward Scissorhands, Cruella DeVille, evil clowns and autumn fairies, using the techniques and design skills they’ve learned in their nail tech, hair design and barbering classes at JATC. Nail tech instructor Shannon Mechling said nail designers participate in industry competitions regularly as a way to get noticed. “The way to get known is to go outside the parameters,” Mechling said, so she encourages her students to be as creative as they can be. “It’s a lot of pressure for them but it pushes them outside of their box of comfort,” she said. “I just think it’s a lot of fun.” The theme was broad enough that some groups chose to style characters from Halloween movies while others interpreted the theme with characters such as an autumn fairy or Medusa. Angeles Garcia, a senior at Copper Hills High School, was inspired by the Day of the Dead holiday, which she loves celebrating with her family each year. Her team created a model with candy skull make-up and hair styled with braids, victory rolls

RivertonJournal.com

Students from the afternoon classes show off their designs. (Photo courtesy of Shannon Mechling.)

and colorful flowers. Garcia used meaningful designs on the nails, including a sculpted cross necklace. Logan Carpenter created patterns on her model’s nails inspired by the patchwork dress of Sally and other characters from the movie “Nightmare Before Christmas.” “You can do anything on nails,” Carpenter said. She used the 3D sculpting techniques she’d recently learned in class.

“It was fun to learn and see it come to life,” she said. Hair design and barbering instructor Dacia Peterson proudly watched her students creatively apply the skills they’ve learned in class—up-dos, hair additives and special occasion design techniques. Addi Perry, Cambria Young and Emma Harmon worked together to create Medusa, using bobby pins, hairspray, wire and

teasing techniques to create a wild head of snakes on Harmon’s head. “They told us the bigger the better, so we thought of all the characters with big hair,” Young said. Most of the students in the competition are in their first semester of classes, only one-fourth of the way through their programs. Barbering and hair design students acquire 1,200 hours of experience in the two year program, which prepares them for state board testing. Nail and hair students practice their skills on each other during class. After school, their services are available to the public by appointment. To schedule nail services, call 801-412-1325 or 801-412-1316. For hair salon services, call 801-412-1311. Riverton High School CTE coordinator Gayle Whitefield said the classes offered at the two JATC campuses prepare students for careers right out of high school, many of which are in high demand. She wants students and parents to know that there are a lot of good jobs that don’t require a degree. She said that many of the JATC classes are a great fit for students who learn best through hands-on experiences or are curious about their career options. “It opens doors to careers that they may not be aware of,” Whitefield said. l

December 2021 | Page 15

Meet Riverton’s golfer of the moment By JJ Thomson | j.thomson@mycityjournals.com

Team Utah takes photos with Gov. Spencer Cox in honor of the team’s national jr. league championship. (Photo courtesy Governor’s office)

ne appearance was all it took for Team Utah to win their first National Car Rental PGA Jr. League Championship. Team Utah, consisting of the top eight 11–14-yearolds from the state, took their No. 3 seed into the tournament, where they defeated Team Connecticut 7.4-4.5 to win the title; One of the junior golfers, 14-yearold Jaxon Erickson, is a Riverton resident and teamed with Jordan Ofahengaue, 11, who swung the match in Utah’s’ favor on the Par-3 16th hole, when he rolled in a 15-footer to put them one up and eventually win the title. Utah Captain Tele Wightman, PGA, said after the match, “Oh my goodness, it was just amazing. You have got Oklahoma, Florida, Connecticut … such good teams, but we really believed in ourselves and felt like we had a team that could get it done. Then you are watching it and you think, this could be happening. The shots they pulled off towards the end, it’s amazing.” “I feel really good, I feel like, I think it is crazy because there is like 64,000 kids, and 10 of us (including their coaches) are all here, and we won. So that is really crazy,” Wightman said. The National Car Rental PGA Jr. League Championship was held in Scottsdale. Arizona at the Grayhawk Golf Club. This is the 9th PGA JR league tournament, after vacating the 2020 event due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Grayhawk has hosted the event since 2016 and will also host the 2022 event before a new venue is selected. For Erickson, his love of the sport came early on, after his father started playing in a men’s league and wanted his son to experience the sport as well. “I started when I was three, with those plastic clubs, when my mom and dad got me those,” he said. “And I just started

Page 16 | December 2021

swinging in the backyard and the front yard and then my dad would take me over to Glenmoor Golf Course and I would just chip and putt forever. It was just really fun.” Glenmoor is his preferred course, but he chose to play this PGA Jr. League with his friends at Thanksgiving Point. In addition to playing golf, Erickson is also involved in basketball, like his father and grandfather, he currently plays shooting and point guard. Aside from his family, another idol of his is former Masters Champion, Jordan Spieth. Erickson comes from a family of athletes. His Grandfather, Gary Erickson, was a high-school basketball star at West High and 1970 High School All-American who played at Utah State from 1971 through 1975. His father, Tim Erickson, played basketball at Granger High and went on to also play at Salt Lake Community College from 1997 through 1999 and then Idaho State from 1999 through 2001. He was an all-conference guard in 2001 for the Big Sky. It continues with his siblings too as Erickson is not the only national champion in his family. One of his older sisters, Kylie Erickson, is a three-time 6A state champion in drill (2013 – 2015) at Copper Hills (plus two additional years as an assistant coach). She was also an NCAA Dance Champion at Utah Valley University in 2017 and is the current Azurette head coach at Copper Hills. His other sister, Mackenzie Erickson, is also a two-time 6A state champion in drill at Copper Hills (2017, 2018) and currently on the dance team at Utah Valley University where they won another NCAA dance championship in 2020. Erickson’s team was recently honored by Gov. Spencer Cox in the Rotunda of the Utah State Capitol Building. l

Riverton City Journal

DECEMBER 2021

RIVERTON REVIEW Official Newsletter of the Riverton, Utah City Government MAYOR’S MESSAGE

The Next Four Years By Mayor Trent Staggs

In November 2017, I was honored to be elected as mayor of Riverton City. I ran on a platform to lower taxes and fees, improve essential city services, drive economic development, fight for responsible growth, enhance community interactions and communications, and ultimately lead Riverton into the future. Immediately upon assuming office, I led our governing body in the creation and implementation of a new city mission and vision statement, as well as the drafting of eight strategic priorities. Together, these important documents would serve as our agenda over the next four years. The first four years are now concluding, and I have worked

tirelessly alongside our great city council and city employees to realize that vision laid out in our strategic plan. I’m happy to report we have accomplished virtually all of the initiatives and measures tied to all eight strategic priorities, producing some key results such as saving millions of dollars annually in property taxes, adding more officers with our own police department, lowered government costs through innovation with the lowest utility fees in the region, adding millions in sales tax revenues, securing new developments like Mountain View Village and Costco, and working regionally with our neighbors to plan for responsible growth and receive critical infrastructure funding. Undoubtedly, Riverton is in a much stronger position today not just financially, but also with respect to our delivery of city services and community engagement. I am humbled by your decision to re-elect me as your mayor. It is my plan to build on the success of the last four years and ensure

given rights of all those that call this we continue to innovate, work great city home. alongside community partners to provide better services and create a As we start 2022, our governing more prosperous Riverton. I would body will create a new four-year like to prioritize more economic strategic plan on development, January 22. Please innovation in city provide your input government to by reaching out continue driving “I’m happy to to me and your down taxes and report we have councilmembers fees, improve the with suggestions on historic downtown, accomplished how we can make enhance water virtually all of the Riverton an even availability better place to live, and quality initiatives and work or play. and improve measures tied to broadband want to thank the infrastructure. I’m all eight strategic IRiverton City staff, also a firm believer priorities..” councilmembers in free markets and you, our and limited amazing residents, government, for your continued which is why I support. I love this community and will continue to support our local feel blessed to call Riverton home. businesses and do my part to I’m excited to see what these next protect individual liberty for every four years will bring and hope we Riverton resident. As long as I am mayor, I promise to uphold my oath can continue to work together to support, obey and defend our to create the most flourishing Constitution and protect the Godcommunity in the entire state.

Winter Parking Policy & Snow Removal Protocol The following snow removal protocol and winter parking policy is in effect in Riverton: • Between November 1 and March 1, no vehicle may be parked on city streets during a snow storm OR where snow has accumulated on road shoulders. • Major roadways, high-traffic areas and school zones are prioritized in snow removal efforts as a matter of public safety. • Minor roads and cul-de-sacs are cleared if 4 inches of snow or more has accumulated once main roadways are clear.

For additional details, visit rivertonutah.gov/snow RIVERTON REVIEW | DECEMBER 2021

PAGE 1

COUNCIL MESSAGE

Inaugural Citizen’s Police Academy a Success MAYOR Trent Staggs tstaggs@rivertonutah.gov 801-208-3129

CITY COUNCIL Sheldon Stewart - District 1 sstewart@rivertonutah.gov 801-953-5672 Troy McDougal - District 2 tmcdougal@rivertonutah.gov 801-931-9933 Tawnee McCay - District 3 tmccay@rivertonutah.gov 801-634-7692 Tish Buroker - District 4 tburoker@rivertonutah.gov 801-673-6103 Claude Wells - District 5 cwells@rivertonutah.gov 801-875-0116

CITY MANAGER David R. Brickey citymanager@rivertonutah.gov 801-208-3129

CITY OFFICES City Hall ................................801-254-0704 Administration ......................801-208-3129 Animal Control......................801-208-3108 Cemetery ..............................801-208-3128 Code Enforcement ................801-208-3108 Development Services ..........801-208-3138 Fire (UFA) ..............................801-743-7200 Justice Court .........................801-208-3131 Recreation & Events .............801-208-3101 Police ....................................385-281-2455 Public Works .........................801-208-3162 Recorder ...............................801-208-3128 Utility Billing .........................801-208-3133 Water....................................801-208-3164

FIND US ONLINE! @rivertonutahgov www.rivertonutah.gov PAGE 2

By Councilmember Claude Wells Riverton City’s inaugural Citizen’s Police Academy has concluded for 2021. It was truly an honor to be part of the first Citizen’s Academy as a Riverton resident, and as a councilmember in District 5. The Citizen’s Academy was a 6-week crash course of hands-on demonstrations, training scenarios and educational workshops that ran once a week for 4 hours per night from October 14 through graduation on November 18. This first class had about twenty participants, including Councilmember Sheldon Stewart from District 1 and 18 Riverton residents. The class started with hearing from Chief Don Hutson and other officers on why they became a police officer and why they chose careers in law enforcement. It was interesting hearing their “why” and what motivates them to come to work and wear their badges protecting our community. We learned a great deal about what our police do every day from traffic enforcement, providing school resources, scenarios for felony stops, community policing, and local and state enforcement laws. Later in the class, we got outside

and did traffic stop scenarios, suspicious vehicle investigations, and disturbance call protocols, including the proper use of police equipment (radios, lights, vehicle positioning, etc.). Week 3 was going over SWAT situations and learning about protective equipment for officers and when to deploy certain firearms for gas and de-escalation techniques. We learned how to use flashbang tools and other methods to gain control over arrest and warrant situations. This included K-9 training and demonstrations.

Citizen’s Academy participants learned about law enforcement in classroom and mock scenario settings.

In continued training, we learned about how police handle sex crimes and about the prosecution and judicial process. We were able to do simulation training with VIRTRA firearms and learn about identifying street drugs. Lastly, we learned about hostage negotiation with the crisis response unit, detective/crime scene investigations, and when to properly deploy use of force and tasers.

training. This academy was eye opening to say the least.

We learned a great deal that cannot be covered in this message; however, it gave us a birds-eye view of what officers can encounter on a daily basis and why split-second decisions have to be made relying on their experience and continuous

There are so many community resources available through the schools and the police department. Please contact the Riverton Police Department at 385-281-2455 or visit rivertonpd.org to learn about the resources available to our community.

We are in good hands with our RPD team. As a Riverton City Council member, this experience was invaluable when making budget decisions when supporting our men and women in public safety to make sure they have the training and the tools they need to keep the officers and community safe.

Christmas Tree Recycling Properly dispose of live Christmas trees at one of three free drop-off locations through the end of January. Centennial Park 13000 S 2700 W

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Riverton Rodeo Arena 12800 S 1300 W

RIVERTON REVIEW | DECEMBER 2021

PUBLIC SAFETY MESSAGE

Beware of Holiday Thieves By Chief Don Hutson Unfortunately, we in the business of policing find ourselves working extra hard during the holiday season due to an increase of thefts which typically occur at this time of year. First, we must acknowledge the sad fact there are individuals living among us who are exerting an unbelievable amount of energy, every day, to formulate a plan to steal property and otherwise victimize the law-abiding citizens in our community, even during the holidays. Prime targets for these thieves are packages left on porches, checks received in the mail, and gifts purchased and left in vehicles. The following actions can make a difference and will minimize the possibility you will be victimized. Make arrangements for someone to remove packages from your porch as soon as they are delivered and do the same with your mail. Many of our home burglaries and thefts happen in the middle of the day, when the perpetrators assume no one is home. You should lock your doors and windows, even when you

are at home. If you have security cameras, make sure they are working. If you don’t have security cameras, there are other options to help secure your property, including security systems, signs, interaction with neighbors, etc. Keep items out of plain view. If you leave items of value in your vehicle, lock the car, but hide the valuables too. If the items aren’t visible, it means the suspects have to work to find the items and, in many instances, they are looking for the quick and easy score. Also know, if it is a larger venue you are attending (church meetings, funerals, concerts, etc.), there is a chance the bad guys/girls are watching. After you enter the venue, they may walk the parking lot looking for the easy score. If they see you take your purse and put it in the trunk, all they need to do is find the trunk button inside your car and they will take your purse. Finally, never leave your car running and unattended, even for a few seconds. As the weather turns cold, it is tempting to leave your car running and unattended to allow it to warm up. This is an invitation to a criminal opportunist to take it for a spin. Thank you for watching out for one another and keeping your fellow

Make arrangements for someone to remove packages from your porch as soon as they are delivered and do the same with your mail.

citizens safe by taking steps to protect yourself and your property and reporting suspicious circumstances when you see them. Have a safe and happy holiday season!

The Riverton Half Marathon and 4Life 5K is Back! ®

Come participate in one of the valley’s best half marathon and 5K races. The race is designed for all ages and abilities. Come to win or come for fun, either way it’s a great way to get out and get healthy! Registration is open at rivertonutah.gov/half. Race: Saturday, March 26, 2022 Time: 9 a.m. (Half Marathon) and 9:15 a.m. (4Life® 5K) Location: Riverton City Park, 1452 W 12600 S, Riverton Utah Register: rivertonutah.gov/half

RIVERTON REVIEW | DECEMBER 2021

PAGE 3

UPCOMING EVENTS

For a list of items to donate, visit: rivertonutah.gov/holiday-donations Riverton City is collecting holiday donations for The Christmas Box House – an organization dedicated to providing emergency shelter to children in need. Donations will be accepted until Friday, December 10 at Riverton City Hall. Donated items must be new and unwrapped.

Start Smart

Basketball

RIVERTON REVIEW

'Twas The Lights Before Christmas

November 30 - December 31, 6 - 9 p.m. Bring the family and come walk around Riverton City Park to read ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas and see the fun lights!

This is a free event for all and no ticket is required. Riverton City Park, 1452 W 12600 S, Riverton, Utah

Start Smart Basketball is designed to help children and parents develop the skills necessary to have a positive start with organized sports. Parents will work one-on-one with their children during four 1-hour classes. Program begins Tuesday, January 11, 2022.

December 17 – Saturday, December 25

Join us in the new year for the Mission Slim Possible Weight Loss Challenge, an individual 8-week mission to lose weight and feel great! Mission Slim Possible is a weight loss challenge, not a weight loss program. It is up to you to lose the weight. Cash prizes will be given out for the highest percentage of body fat lost, most pounds lost, and male and female division winners.

January 5 - March 2, 2022 | $30 per person Registration Deadline: Tuesday, January 4, 2022 Learn more at rivertonutah.gov/slimpossible

PAGE 4

Drive by homes decked out in lights and decorations for the holidays during the Riverton Tour of Lights! A map will be made available to the public at the website URL listed below on December 17 to help you identify locations to drive by on this self-guided tour. ENTRY DETAILS Riverton residents who put up awesome holiday light displays are encouraged to enter their home in the Riverton Tour of Lights! The entry deadline is Sunday, December 12. Entry is free. Participants will have their name and address included on a map and will receive a sign to place in their yard during the tour.

To see the tour map or enter your home, visit:

rivertonutah.gov/tour-of-lights

RIVERTON REVIEW | DECEMBER 2021

Mountain Ridge volleyball season ends at UVU By Justin Adams | justin.a@thecityjournals.com

he Mountain Ridge volleyball team’s season came to an end in the second round of the 6A state tournament, held at Utah Valley University last month. After defeating Herriman in three sets in the first round, played on the Sentinels’ home floor, the team moved on to face fourth-seeded Pleasant Grove. The Sentinels lost in three sets to the Vikings, who would go on to finish as the runners-up at the state tournament. The Sentinels had two players named to All-Region teams. Junior outside hitter Ireland McNees earned first team honors for leading the region in kills, blocks and digs at her position. Leah Olsen, a senior middle blocker who led the region in blocks was named to the second team. Additionally, senior outside hitter Kelli Wright will be continuing her volleyball playing career at the next level, as she signed a letter of intent to play for the University of Alaska Fairbanks. l Left: Senior outside hitter Kelli Wright will be continuing her volleyball career at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. (Justin Adams/City Journals) Right: A pair of Mountain Ridge players go up for an attempted block against Pleasant Grove. (Justin Adams/City Journals) Below: Outside hitter Ireland McNees goes up for a hit against Pleasant Grove. (Justin Adams/City Journals)

RivertonJournal.com

December 2021 | Page 21

Potential helicopter pad in Draper development draws crowd to council meeting By Mimi Darley Dutton | m.dutton@mycityjournals.com

or the first time since before the pandemic began, Draper City Council chambers were packed with people over a proposed development that could potentially include a hospital with a helicopter pad. In February 2020, council chambers overflowed with people wanting to speak in opposition to Geneva Rock expanding at The Point of the Mountain. Fast forward 21 months, and this time Draper’s Fire Marshall Don Buckley had to assist the overflow of people to find seats in other parts of City Hall to maintain fire code safety.

It was a public hearing on the request of Ralph Johnson, developer with Utah Capital LLC of Midvale, to create a new commercial special district and rezone at approximately 166 E. Highland Dr. The development was said to include mostly office, restaurant and retail space with “a medical practitioner, surgery center and some emergency services for the local community,” according to Johnson. He said the project’s history began in 1996 with the creation of an area called “Southpointe” and he was looking for realization of the plan in 2021 with his proposal. The Plan-

ning Commission had recommended approval with modifications at their Oct. 14 meeting and forwarded it to City Council for a public hearing Nov. 9. The potential helicopter pad, the height of the proposed buildings, and concerns over traffic congestion drew residents to comment publicly in large numbers. The possibility of a helicopter pad for the medical component of the project had been mentioned toward the end of the Planning Commission’s mid-October meeting, but Diane Hooper of Draper said that mention happened after public comment had closed. That mention prompted Ian Gillespie to start a “say Heli-no” campaign. Gillespie came to the council meeting to pass out “I love Draper” stickers. He told the council he’d garnered 1,266 signatures in opposition to the project with his online petition. “There will be no helicopter pad within the project. We’re glad to tell people it’s something not intended to be there, they can go home and sleep well tonight,” Johnson said in his presentation before the public comment portion began. But many feared that if a small hospital or emergency center was established in the development, both noisy ambulances and a helicopter could come to fruition. “The de-

veloper’s website notes it will be a trauma center, but those require a helicopter pad. Practically speaking, if you ask any physician, you can’t be a trauma center without a helipad…there’s something in the medical profession called the Golden Hour where you must get treatment, so medical care has to come within the first 60 minutes. Pre-existing hospitals receive noise complaints up to two miles away from helicopter pads,” Beth Park said. Others asked why Draper needs more office buildings. “Do we really need these large office buildings when we have so many empty buildings nearby, especially with many businesses moving to a work from home model?” David Barth asked. And many were concerned that the development would be detrimental to Draper’s famous flight park. Hang glider pilot Kevin Berry said he’s noticed air quality is getting worse. “This is a world class flying site but it’s deteriorating. This helicopter pad would be within a half mile (of the flight park). I can’t imagine the FAA would allow that,” Berry said, indicating he’d notified the FAA that Draper was considering this proposal. Other flight park fans expressed tall buildings in that vicinity would also be bad Continued from front page “I would definitely say being a part of the very first Silver Rush probably paved the way for me to have that charitable giving mindset,” Brimhall said. “Part of the purpose of starting a nonprofit was to have my kids be able to give back in something that they went through. I was a single mom for a while so they lived that life of being a child of a single parent.” SBO President Dylan Elliott said the magic of Silver Rush makes it the best time of the year. “As a little kid, I loved the magic that the holidays have, but you kind of lose this magic,” he said. “There’s a really beautiful thing when you walk into our school during December— you feel that magic again. That is something so cool about Silver Rush, the feelings inside that radiate out into our community and beyond.” The SBOs said the traditions and magic of Silver Rush are more important than the amount of money they raise, but the closing assembly is still one of their favorite parts of the season. “My favorite part is, that no matter what number is on that banner, when it drops, everybody’s in tears and hugging each other and we’re so happy,” SBO Tanner Morrison said. “I don’t look at the banner, I don’t look at the crowd,” SBO adviser Katie Borgmeier said. “I look at the charity and I watch their reaction because you can see the change that we have just made for them and their charity.” l

Page 22 | December 2021

Riverton City Journal

AUDITIONS

for the Broadway Musical for flying. Johnson had proposed buildings as tall as 70 feet overall, or 60 feet tall with 10 feet of screening. Jeff Butler, a pilot from St. Louis, Missouri, urged the council to see it from a different economic perspective. “Look at the economic growth we’ve brought into this city as pilots. The sport has grown nationally and brings in about 20 million dollars into schools plus hotels and restaurants. People come from all over the world to fly here. As our sport grows, your city grows,” Butler said. Chandler Point residents came out in

full force concerned that they’d lose the views they have from their homes, resulting in loss of their property values. Sam and Tiffany Wilkinson came to speak in support of Johnson’s development. Sam said he works in investments and as a business developer and he felt this development fit in the city’s master plan which he said supersedes zoning requirements. “Property is the foundation of every right we have. This is not public property, this is privately owned land,” Tiffany said. Councilmember Tasha Lowery told Johnson she wanted to talk to him about the

process. “When you first came you wanted staff to make recommendations. The planning commission made many recommendations to you, but those are still not addressed in your application.” Councilmember Marsha Vawdrey asked if Johnson would be willing to lower the heights of the buildings. “It’s impractical to do that,” Johnson replied. Councilmember Mike Green moved to deny the ordinances for Johnson’s development, Lowery seconded Green’s motion, and the motion to deny was passed unanimously by the council. l

Bluffdale announce BluffdaleArts Arts is is excited excited totoannounce

AUDITIONS AUDITIONS forthe theBroadway Broadway Musical for Musical Bluffdale Arts is excited to announce AUDITIONS

for the Broadway Musical

Thursday Dec 9thth from 6-9 pm Thursday Dec 9 from 6-9 pm Friday, Dec from Friday, Dec10th 10th from 6-9 6-9 pm, pm, th from Saturday, December 96-9 am9pm toam 1 pm Saturday, December 11 from to 1 pm Thursday Dec 911 from or by appointment - call 801-680-1192 Friday, Dec 10th- from 6-9 pm, or byCallbacks appointment call 801-680-1192 Saturday afternoon and evening th Thursday Dec 911from pm to 1 pm Saturday, December from6-9 9 am Callbacks Saturday afternoon and evening Friday, Dec 10th from 6-9 pm, or by appointment - call 801-680-1192 AtDecember the Bluffdale Saturday, 11 City fromOffices 9 am to 1 pm Callbacks Saturday afternoon and evening 14400 South 2222 West or by appointment - call 801-680-1192 At the Bluffdale City Offices Callbacks Saturday afternoon and evening AUDITION AS A FAMILY At the Bluffdale City Offices 14400 South 2222 West THERE’S A PLACE EVERYONE!!! 14400 SouthFOR 2222 West At the Bluffdale City Offices 14400 SouthARE 2222OPEN West ALL PARTS

AUDITION FAMILY AUDITION AS AS AAFAMILY THERE’S A PLACE FOR EVERYONE!!!

Come prepared toAUDITION sing 16 bars ofAan upbeat Broadway song AS FAMILY THERE’S A PLACE FOR EVERYONE!!! Bring aAhard copy of your music THERE’S PLACE FOR EVERYONE!!! An accompanist will be provided.

ALL PARTS ARE OPEN NO CD’S of MP3’s please! ALL PARTS ARE OPEN ALL PARTS ARE OPEN Performance Dates – March 3-5, 2022 Come prepared to sing 16 bars of an upbeat Broadway song Come prepared to sing 16 bars of an upbeat Broadway song Come prepared to sing 16 bars of an upbeat aahard ofyour your music Broadway Bring hard copy copy/ of music Questions,Bring call 801-680-1192 bluffdalearts@gmail.com An accompanist willof beprovided. provided. Bring hard copy your music Ana accompanist will be NO MP3’s please! NOCD’S CD’Sbyof ofgenerous MP3’s An accompanist will please! be provided. Made possible support from Performance March 3-5, 2022 Performance Dates –– March 3-5, 2022 Bluffdale City ZAPDates – SLC zoo artsplease! and parks funding NOand CD’S of MP3’s

song

Performance Dates – March 3-5, 2022

Questions, call801-680-1192 801-680-1192 // bluffdalearts@gmail.com Questions, call bluffdalearts@gmail.com

Draper City Fire Marshall Don Buckley surveys the packed council chambers. Buckley directed people into overflow areas of City Hall to maintain public safety. Made possible by generous support from Made801-680-1192 possible by generous support from Questions, call / bluffdalearts@gmail.com Bluffdale City and ZAP – SLC zoo arts and parks funding (Mimi Darley Dutton/City Journals) Bluffdale City and ZAP – SLC zoo arts and parks funding

As Utah’s Unemployment Rate Hits Record Low, Lack of Labor Lingers

Made possible by generous support from Bluffdale City and ZAP – SLC zoo arts and parks funding

By Robert Spendlove, Zions Bank Senior Economist Utah’s unemployment rate hit the lowest level ever recorded in October. The Utah Department of Workforce Services’ most recent jobs report, released in November, shows that only 2.2% of the state’s workers are unemployed and actively looking for work. This historic low comes only 18 months after the state’s unemployment rate reached a record high of 10.4% in April 2020 at the onset of the pandemic. Utah’s job recovery from such a massive disruption has been impressive. Our state’s two-year job growth leads the nation at 3.7%, compared to a 2.2% job decline nationally. The state has added 58,500 jobs added over the past two years, with the construction; financial activities; and trade, transportation and utilities sectors growing the fastest. This job growth is limited, however, by the lack of available labor. Utah, like the rest of the nation, is struggling to find workers to fill job openings. A recent analysis from The Pew Charitable Trusts found that the ratio of jobs-to-jobless in Utah is more than

RivertonJournal.com

Utah Unemployment Rate at Record Low 13.0% 12.0% 11.0% 10.0% 9.0% 8.0% 7.0% 6.0% 5.0% 4.0% 3.0% October 2.0% 2021 1.0% 2.2% 0.0% 1/1/00 1/1/02 1/1/04 1/1/06 1/1/08 1/1/10 1/1/12 1/1/14 1/1/16 1/1/18 1/1/20 Source: Utah Department of Workforce Statistics

2 to 1. Many residents who dropped out of the workforce during the pandemic have not returned. Even so, the labor force participation rate – an estimate of what percent of the state’s population is working or looking for a job – is the fifth highest in the nation. Labor force participation remained steady from September to October at 67.9%, though still below the 68.6% of two years ago in October 2019. The very tight labor market continues to cause wage pressure. Nationally, average hourly earnings were 4.9% higher in

October, compared to one year ago. This wage inflation, which is a welcome trend for workers, is placing more strain on employers, who are facing both the labor shortage and continued supply chain struggles. Despite these challenges, Utah’s economy – and the U.S. economy – continue to improve and recover. More people are returning to work as the latest wave of the delta variant of the Coronavirus subsides, vaccination rates increase, and the impact of enhanced unemployment benefits ends. l

Women: Your Voice Matters!

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December 2021 | Page 23

Global production of ‘All Together Now!’ aims to revive arts and theater industry By Dylan Wilcox | d.wilcox@mycityjournals.com

he hustle and bustle of Broadway came to a screeching halt in March of 2020. A once-in-100-year pandemic single-handedly closed theaters in communities across the globe, even in New York City, the heart of the theatrical world itself. For the past 19 months, the arts community has been on an extended hiatus due to the global health issues driven by the spread of COVID-19. To jump-start the arts and theater industry, Music Theatre International launched “All Together Now!,” a global production. “MTI’s “All Together Now!” is designed as a fundraiser for local theatres to perform live, over the same four-days Nov. 12-15, 2021. The past year-and-a-half has been extremely challenging for theatrical organizations and MTI is offering this exclusive musical revue as a way to support the thousands of theatres who are persevering under trying circumstances,” according to the MTI website. Drew Cohen, President and CEO of MTI Worldwide cited the growing enthusiasm for “All Together Now!” as a “truly collaborative effort…that any and every type of theatre from schools to the pros has the opportunity to produce “All Together Now!” in their communities.” Riverton Arts Council Director, Vicki Wartman, and Production Director, Valaura Arnold spear-headed the effort to bring the global production to Riverton. The duo had a total of seven weeks to put together a cast, choreograph various musical classics and facilitate rehearsals to perform with thespians across the world. In total, 2,500 theaters in over 40 countries participated in the worldwide production. Having received word from MTI, Wartman and Arnold saw this as an opportunity to restart the theater program in Riverton. Wartman, who has been part of the Riverton Arts Council for many years said that the theater sector in Riverton was on its last legs financially. Thankfully the council had ample savings to keep the production going. Wartman’s goal with “All Together Now!” was to raise $10,000. All proceeds will go to funding similar future plays in the community. Arnold added that the Riverton Arts Council gave her artistic leeway from choosing the songs to directing the choreography. “They were very kind in how I wanted to interpret [the set list],” she said. As part of “All Together Now!” MTI waived the rights to dozens of crowd-favorite songs from nearly 20 musicals, which allowed schools and theaters to bypass need for permission to use the music for localized productions. Wartman and Arnold knew participating in this global production would be the best way to jump-start the community’s arts and theater program again. “This cast rose to the occasion,” Arnold said. “Lots of intense practice at home as well as [on stage]. I am so proud of them. They re-

Page 24 | December 2021

Cast members perform “Can’t Stop the Beat” from Hairspray. (Brook Bowen/Riverton City)

Mckenna Dibble, lead female vocalist, performs “Human Heart.” (Brook Bowen/Riverton City)

ally rose to the occasion, that’s for sure,” she added. According to Wartman, the production’s opening night on Friday, Nov. 12 was a full house, so much so “there weren’t enough seats.” There were droves of spectators who attended on Saturday evening as well. Focusing the audience’s attention from the past year and a half of COVID, cast members asked the audience what their favorite part of 2021 was so far. Some said planning trips, visiting family, finishing school among other milestones. The message in each song was related to how despite the difficulties presented by the pandemic, everyone has something to look forward to. Opening the production on a light note, parents and children performed “Pure Imagination” from “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” to show the closer bond parents have developed with their children while in isolation for many months during work-fromhome and remote learning. Cast members then performed “Writing Down the Story of My Life” from “Junie B. Jones, The Musical,” which referenced the odd times teenagers currently find balancing

themselves between home and school while looking forward to what the future holds. Another number from High School Musical’s “We’re All in This Together” echoed the often-heard phrase from emergency responders and medical professionals on the frontline of COVID. Donning Riverton High School sports regalia, cast members performed the song as a reminder that we’re all experiencing these unusual circumstances at the same time, but we’ll eventually get through it together. Riverton High School senior, Skyler Nguyen said, “We wanted to convey togetherness, to invite people to come together. After being separated for so long, this is finally our moment to all be in this together.” Another song, “Empty Chairs at Empty Tables” from “Les Misérables” referenced the long period of mandated shut down for movie theaters, schools, churches and restaurants, leaving whole cities and towns with empty chairs and empty tables. “The Human Heart” from “Once on This Island” was a somber number which recalled those we have lost to COVID. Cast mem-

bers each held a lit candle; members of the audience were also invited to raise a candle as a brief vigil and moment of pause for the hundreds of thousands that lost their battle to COVID around the world. Lead female vocalist, and Riverton High School graduate, Makenna Dibble performed the number. “[It shows] how resilient we are as mankind and we always bounce back no matter what we go through,” Dibble said. “Although COVID was such a terrible thing, we’re bringing theater back, we’re spending time together again. We’re all part of the human heart, we’re all part of the human race,” she added. A unique feature of this production in Riverton is the presence of American Sign Language interpreters. Bethany Clewett, Brooklyn Paxman, Emma Keith, and Shay Underwood are all interpreters participating in an internship which allows students to translate plays for members of the deaf community. This program, which is sponsored by the Riverton Arts Council, is the only one in the state of Utah. Anne Fife, a student in the Theater Arts Education program at Utah Valley University, and is deaf, attended the production in support of her friend, Shay. “I really enjoyed [the production],” Fife shared through an interpreter. “There have been some limitations, but I can enjoy the play my own way.” Fife acknowledges that it’s not common to see members of the deaf community attend musicals, but through the lively and expressive way the four ASL interpreters translated the songs, it made the performance enjoyable to watch. “I am really impressed with Riverton and that they have set up this program,” Fife signed. She noted that more awareness is needed for members of the deaf community to have opportunities to enjoy the arts. “Do you have deaf community members that would appreciate this access? If you offer [the ASL interpretation services] to them, they will come.” Another well-known song was “Let It Go” from Disney’s “Frozen” which was performed by Arnold. The main message Arnold wanted to express with this number is for people to let go of the divisiveness and hate many have experienced because of COVID. “I just wanted everybody to understand that it’s time to let go of all the negativity that was put upon us,” Arnold said. The final number of the evening was “You Can’t Stop the Beat” from “Hairspray,” an upbeat and whimsical number which left the audience with smiles on their faces. A potential lesson from the final number is that although the pandemic did cause the arts world to briefly skip a beat, it couldn’t truly stop the beat. And we hope this worldwide showing revives the much-needed beat of the arts community in Riverton and abroad. l

Riverton City Journal

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Local ‘princess’ teaches friendship, inclusion and affirmation By Karmel Harper | k.harper@mycityjournals.com

hen South Jordan’s Cindy Chia, who is Malaysian Chinese, took her then 2-year-old daughter, Maya, to Disney On Ice last year, Maya was upset that the show did not include Mulan, the Chinese heroine who saves her country. “So I lodged a complaint to Disney and I was still not hopeful. But surprisingly this year there was a whole segment for Mulan! Maya was so thrilled! My mom and I were in tears because it’s very rare that we get represented in such a big production like that,” Chia said. Although heroines of color were rare in the early decades of Disney, recently more and more productions feature strong women of various ethnicities. As more of these princesses of color have become popular, the demand for character actors to play them has also increased, which is why Allegra-Bree Moreno stays quite busy appearing at various events and parties as Princess Jasmine, Raya, and Moana, among other characters. With an extensive background in musical theater, acting, and modeling, Moreno began her “princess” career in March of 2021 when she answered a casting call for the role of Jasmine. While Jasmine was rarely booked at the time, once Moreno took over the role, Jasmine bookings increased significantly, a testament not only to her talent of playing the role well, but also her gift for connecting with children. From there, her roles expanded to Moana, Elena of Avalor, and Raya. In addition to Disney characters, Moreno also plays villains, super heroes, and science fiction characters. Most of her bookings come from word-of-mouth recommendations. Chia, who recently moved from Herriman to Daybreak, celebrated her daughter Maya’s 3rd birthday by inviting Moreno to play Moana. Moreno, as Moana, paddle-boarded across Oquirrh Lake to greet an excited group of tots in front of Chia’s new home. Chia said Moreno “was patient, caring, and engaging to make sure my daughter had the best 3rd birthday.” “It makes me feel good that they had a great experience with how we have been trained, the costuming we use, the wig quality, how we handle ourselves at a party and how we interact with children. A lot of people think it’s just dress up and cosplay. But when you have to be fully immersed in the role, it’s an entirely different skill because you have to create magic for the kids,” Moreno said. As a person of mixed race including Cuban, West African/Haitian, Chinese, Portuguese, Ashkenazi Jewish, British, Scandinavian, and Filipino, Moreno and the three character companies she works for are passionate and proactive about representation and transcendent casting, the practice of casting people of color in traditionally white-cast roles. Moreno has had opportunities to play Belle and Cinderella, giving children the ex-

RivertonJournal.com

Moreno’s Raya, the Southeast Asian warrior from “Raya and the Last Dragon,” appeals to her Filipino heritage.( Photo by Ashley’s Flashy Photos.)

perience of interacting with favorite princesses who look like them. “In this industry there are a lot of problems with colorism and racism and I have been fortunate to have found a community of people who do really care about these issues and strive to understand and become educated,” Moreno said. When Moreno first started playing Jasmine she experienced the previous “white-washing” of Jasmine at a birthday party when one of the little girls showed her a Jasmine doll. “She held her doll next to me and she said, ‘I didn’t know you really were brown. You are so pretty,’” Moreno said. Moreno’s personal experience as a minority and a child who was bullied growing up has given her the dedication to empower children who feel “othered” and seek belonging. When she first arrives at an event, she seeks the outliers and shy kids who feel like they don’t fit in. “I recognize them because that was me. I approach them first before I interact with the other kids and I try to talk to them, relate to them, and personally invite them to join in. The child thinks, ‘Wow, Jasmine thought I was cool enough to talk to and be her friend.’ When it’s a kid that talks to you, well cool, you have made a new friend. When it’s another adult, you think they have to do that. But when it’s your HERO right in front of you, it gives you confidence for the rest of your life. I want to give them at least one memory that builds them up to draw on - especially when they need it the most,” Moreno said. And indeed, there is power in that.

Moreno’s Princess Jasmine revives the classic 1990s character for a new generation. (Photo by Luminosity Photography.)

In a time when the Department of Justice recently delivered a scathing report about racism in the Davis School District followed by a 10-year-old North Salt Lake child taking her own life due to bullying because of her autism and skin color, teaching simple kindness and acceptance is more important than ever before. Perhaps what we truly need are more princesses and more super heroes to literally save lives. “I always tell kids when they’re down on themselves...I’ll ask, ‘Are you royal too?’ Of course they will first answer ‘No.’ But then I ask, ‘Are you loyal to your friends and family? Are you kind? Are you brave?’ Are you a good friend? Do you

stand up for those who need help?’ And when they can answer ‘yes,’ they realize, ‘I AM royal. I can make a difference,’” Moreno said, But Moreno said we don’t have to be dressed up in tiaras and capes to lift children up. We just need to accept and love them exactly as they are. If you would like to hire Moreno for your next party or event, visit www.charactersandcrowns.com, www.characterbooking.com, or www.yourfairygodmotherutah.com. Moreno also volunteers as Wonder Woman with the Legacy Initiative Cosplay organization which sends super heroes to children’s hospitals and other events for hope and healing. l

December 2021 | Page 27

Salt Lake County giving residents opportunity to test out lifeguarding By Travis Barton | travis.b@thecityjournals.com

Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation is hosting a “Just-Try-It: Lifeguarding” for those ages 14 and up at the Dimple Dell Recreation Center. (Pixabay)

alt Lake County Parks and Recreation is hosting a “Just-TryIt: Lifeguarding” for those ages 14 and up from 3 to 5 p.m. on Dec. 11 at the Dimple Dell Recreation Center (10670 S. 1000 East) in Sandy. “Being a lifeguard was something I always wanted to do and, as a teen, my dreams came true when I was hired by Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation,” said Amber Milne, recreation manager at Fairmont Aquatic Center, in a press release. “I worked as a lifeguard during high school and while in college. Now, 20 years later, I’ve made a career out of doing what I love while serving the community.” The parks and recreation department held the same two-hour event on Nov. 20 at the Northwest Recreation Center in Salt Lake City. It’s aimed to give anyone interested the opportunity to experience what it’s like to be a lifeguard. According the press release, individuals will “try lifeguard skills and activities, shadow a lifeguard, talk with lifeguards and management about the duties and responsibili-

ties of the position, play some pool games, and apply for a great and fun job.” It is part of the county’s efforts to fill lifeguard positions through employment benefits described as “paid training, flexible hours, great coworkers, professional development, and pay up to $16/hour depending on experience, position, and shift. Hired individuals will work at recreation centers throughout the county.” Parks and Recreation is also offering surge pay to cover harder-tofill shifts, Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. Employees working these hours will earn $6 on top of normal wages until the end of the year. This comes after a summer when the county was also facing a shortage in lifeguards. Attendees are encouraged to bring a swimsuit, a towel and a friend. Admission fees are waived for participants and no registration is required. Individuals interested in applying for a lifeguard or swim instructor position may apply at bit.ly/slcoguard. l

Saturday December 4, 2021 6:00 - 8:00 pm 1007 W South Jordan Parkway South Jordan, Utah

Page 28 | December 2021

Riverton City Journal

Immerse yourself in art at new Leonardo exhibit

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CONTACT: Susan Schilling 801-280-0595 susan@swvchamber.org

CHAMBER NEWS KNIGHT OF HEROES

Van Gogh’s “Starry Night” fills the walls (and even the floor) of the Leonardo’s new IDEA space. (Justin Adams/City Journals)

here’s a new way to experience classic works of art at the new IDEA space at the Leonardo museum in downtown Salt Lake City. The acronym stands for “Immersive Digital Exploratory Art.” Occupying a large chunk of the museum’s second floor, the new space may seem sparse when the lights are on—large blank walls, a few mirrors, some benches and cushions for visitors to sit on. But turn off the lights and fire up the dozens of projectors strewn across the ceiling, and suddenly you’re flying through Van Gogh’s “Starry Night” or are nestled peacefully in Monet’s lush gardens. Each scene of artwork transforms seamlessly into the next with animations that bring each piece to life. Accompanying the artwork is an occasional voice-over that provides context for the artwork, but more often a piece of music; from classical music for the Romantic period to jazz music for the post-modern. The exhibit, Immersive Art Series, was created by Universal Exhibition Group and has previously been shown in Moscow, Dubai, Belgium and Switzerland. The Leonardo will be its first home in North America. The series consists of five shows, each centered around a different era or theme. The first show being played at the Leonardo is titled “Monet to Kandinsky” and features the work of “10 artists who revolutionized the art world.” The next show that will be added to the rotation focuses on the Italian Renaissance. “[The Leonardo] is the perfect space for this because it’s all about science, technology

RivertonJournal.com

and art and that’s exactly what this is all about,” said Steve Boulay, COO of Magic Space Entertainment, a local company who partnered with the Leonardo to build the IDEA space and bring the Immersive Art Series to Utah. Although he’s surrounded by world class entertainment throughout his career of bringing Broadway productions to cities around the world, Boulay said there’s something “different” about this exhibit. In fact, he said he spent three hours just sitting in the space and enjoying the show all by himself. Although the IDEA space was built with the Immersive Art Series in mind, Boulay and the Leonardo envision many other uses for their investment. “If we have the space, we can also curate local content. We’re going to be able to do things like have shows based on Utah history or shows that highlight Utah artists,” he said. “I think you’re going to see shows here for a decade, which is fantastic.” The new space is also a perfect addition to the Leonardo as the country slowly emerges from the pandemic, said Executive Director Alex Hesse. “This new space is very open, it’s ‘no touch,’ and we can also restrict how many people are inside. It’s a very COVID-friendly experience,” she said. “It also feels joyful, inspiring and uplifting and that feels very important to all of us at this time.” Tickets for “Monet to Kandinsky” are now available through the Leonardo’s website, www.theleonardo.org. l

What an amazing night! We held the Chamber’s annual Knight of Heroes on Nov. 12. We honored the following heroes! Riverton Hospital Medical Hero: Rick Carlson Bluffdale Fire Hero: Captain Bret Rosenkrantz Small Business Hero: Broomhead Funeral Home Small business Nominees: Stotz Equipment and Murphy’s Café Unified Fire Authority: Captain Gary Limberg, Hazmat Specialist Peter Gordon, Engineer Vance MaKean, Paramedic Mathew Payne, Paramedic Tyler Cox, Specialist Greg Bell Businesswoman of the Year: Trisha Baldwin from Pinks Salon Businesswoman of the year nominees: Becky Pickle from Chick fil-A and Chantel Tauleoli from A Beautiful Surpize Herriman Police Hero: Detective Dan Beckstrom Businessman of the Year: Christian Sandoval from Total Athletic Training Businessman of the year nominees: TJ Olson from State Farm and Matthew Jacobsen from South Hills Pediatric Dentistry Buffdale Police Hero: Detective Chalyce Coomes Volunteer of the Year: Kyndel Marcroft Volunteer of the year nominees: Ezra Pugliano and Michael Braga Jordan Valley Medical Center’s Heroes: Brooklyn Talbot and E’Leesha Benson Large Business of the Year: Texas Roadhouse Large Business of the year nominee: Harmon’s Grocery Store All of these heroes go above and beyond for our local community. Thank you for all you have done and will continue to do.

swvchamber.org December 2021 | Page 29

Beloved ballet returns to Capitol Theatre for the holidays By Peri Kinder | peri.k@davisjournal.com

allet West’s most popular show and annual tradition, “The Nutcracker,” returns to the Capitol Theatre for live performances Dec. 4-26. It’s been two years since the holiday ballet was performed for a live audience, since COVID-19 shuttered entertainment venues in 2020. Audiences are eager to get back to live ballet as more than 13,000 tickets have already been sold and this year’s performance of “The Nutcracker” is expected to bring in the highest level of sales in 25 years. “Following the successful production of ‘Dracula,’ where many performances were sold out, demand for ‘The Nutcracker’ is expected to be high,” said Adam Sklute, Ballet West artistic director, in a media release. “We encourage all ‘Nutcracker’ fans to purchase tickets early so they have a seat and don’t miss out.” Made possible through support from The George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation, the $3 million production is a classic ballet in two acts based on the fairy tale by E.T.A. Hoffmann. The iconic score by Tchaikovsky will be performed live, featuring the Ballet West Orchestra. Choreographed by Ballet West founder Willam Christensen, “The Nutcracker” has evening performances at 7 p.m., matinees at 2 p.m., and a special holiday matinee on Christmas Eve at noon. Immediately following each matinee (except Dec. 24), Ballet West hosts a Sugar Plum Party where young audience members can join the Sugar Plum Fairy and other favorite characters from the ballet for a special treat. “Each year, hundreds of Utah children from across

Artists of Ballet West perform in “The Nutcracker” at Capitol Theatre. (Photo courtesy of Beau Pearson)

the Wasatch Front audition for the opportunity to perform in Ballet West’s ‘The Nutcracker,’ with just over 100 children being selected for the coveted roles,” Sklute said. “The story tells of a Christmas party at which little Clara, daughter of the house, receives the gift of a nutcracker

from her mysterious uncle, Herr Drosselmeyer. After the party, she falls asleep and dreams of snow castles, sugarplums, and her nutcracker, which has turned into a handsome prince.” Ticket prices range from $25 to $104 and are available at BalletWest.org or 801-869-6900.l

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Page 30 | December 2021

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I Saw Mommy Kicking Santa Claus

he holidays have arrived. Snow is falling, candles are aglow, the smell of cinnamon wafts through the air, and somewhere in Utah a middle-aged woman is screaming at a Walmart cashier because the store is out of the candied cherries she puts in her fruit cake. Blame the supply chain, but it’s not just dried fruit running low; it’s patience, compassion and the ability to be a nice human being. If you’re on TikTok, along with videos of flying reindeer and holiday proposals, you’ll see flight attendants being punched, teachers yelling at students, customers throwing coffee at baristas and whales capsizing kayaks. Even whales have had enough. You’d think being isolated last year would make us happier to interact with fellow humans this holiday season, but it seems to be the opposite. Social distancing and isolation has taken our stress levels to nuclear proportions. We’re reacting like the Tasmanian Devil, whirling ourselves off a cartoon cliff. News programs broadcast warnings about packages stolen from porches and backseats, felons posing as Salvation Army bell-ringers and spiteful elves spying on children and reporting back to Santa. Poor Kris Kringle will deliver a lot of coal this year . . . well, not coal because it’s

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destroying the planet. Maybe since wind power is a sustainable coal alternative, Santa can bring naughty people a stiff, gusty breeze. We’re living in a heightened state of fear, and fear is the opposite of what we should feel this time of year. This season of love and light and joy has been co-opted by those who would divide us. The farther apart we get, the less we are able to see each other. Here’s an idea. What if we put all talk of politics on hold for December? That would be one month of no talking heads and finger-pointing and dire social media memes. What if we vowed to share only positive stories and heartwarming videos, and ban all holiday music featuring Alvin

and the Chipmunks? Let’s use this time to digest more than nine pounds of mashed potatoes and three types of pie. Let’s digest how we’ve treated each other during the last year, and try to do better. Even I, a freakin’ humor columnist, have received more angry emails and phone calls in 2021 than the previous 17 years combined. Whether it’s Democrats, Republicans, Big Bird, mask mandates, cancel culture or fruitcake, our division is growing. Any day, I’m expecting leaflets to be flung out of helicopters explaining how the COVID vaccine is turning us into carnivorous, zombie dinosaurs. Aren’t you tired of it all? Remember when Christmas meant acts of service and goodwill to all mankind? What can you do to return to love this holiday season? Maybe less judgement and more connection. Maybe less yelling and more listening. Maybe it’s taking a plate of homemade cookies to a neighbor. Maybe it’s building a bridge instead of a wall. Maybe it's apologizing and swallowing our inflated egos. This holiday season, it’s your job to love your neighbor, even the one you don’t agree with. Even the ones yelling at the Walmart cashier. They might need the most love of all.

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